Even those who live in apartments or condominiums, where space is truly at a premium, can convert a tiny area into an idyllic garden that satisfies the senses and soothes the soul. Paul James, host of HGTV's Gardening by the Yard, offers tips on developing a small condo garden. Amending soil with an organic soil conditioner is the most important step in preparing any garden. It's especially important when a number of shade-tolerant plants that require rich soil will be planted. This process takes a little time and effort but makes the difference between success and failure. A border can add a lot visually as well as serve to keep dirt and mulch in the garden. Next, figure the layout of plants in the garden. Leave the plants in their containers, and move them around until you find a design that pleases you. Dig planting holes roughly twice as wide as each plant's root ball, but not quite as deep, to allow for some settling. Carefully remove each plant from its container (then return recyclable containers to the nursery). When a plant has been in a pot for too long, the roots begin growing in a circle. Make cuts here and there to encourage young feeder roots to grow and spread. After sticking a plant in its planting hole, rotate it a bit to get the most flattering or interesting angle before filling in the hole. Remember to plant from the back to the front to get a better perspective on the design and to prevent trampling any plants. Mulch is like icing on the cake. Shredded wood mulch is better than chips, which tend to float away during heavy rains. Cypress, cedar and redwood are better than pine, which tends to decompose quickly. Pine needles, crushed pecan shells and other mulching materials also work nicely in a small garden. Don't forget to add hanging baskets or a birdfeeder. Tip: - Always lay out plants in their containers before you actually put them in the ground (figure A). Give yourself a day or two to get used to the layout, and rearrange as needed, before putting the plants in the ground.
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