The Unveiling of Mario Hilario's Garden

Welcome to the fourth segment of Mario Hilario's Garden Makeover. This week the garden designed by Richard Clark of Clark Farms was unveiled to a surprised and appreciative Mario.

The focus of the makeover was on expanding the perennial bed under the dogwood tree, creating a mixed shrub and perennial border along the edge of the yard, designing window boxes for both the house and the shed, and tying in the color and species of plants used to make container gardens to liven up the deck.

It is important to remember that the perennial garden you create will change dramatically in years to come. With regards, the saying goes " The first year they sleep, the second year they weep, the third year they leap." With this in mind, research the mature size of the plants so they don't outgrow the garden. Also, look for insect and disease resistant plants to minimize maintenance and insure that your garden is healthy.

Additions to Mario's garden:

Soaker Hose

A soaker hose is an efficient watering system. The flexible, porous hose is placed within the garden and to preserve soil moisture, covered with mulch. When you turn the water on, water flows into the hose and is delivered directly to the plants roots. Thorough watering should be done once a week for several hours. This type of watering is 70% more effective than overhead sprinklers or watering and can be done less frequently, saving you time as well as benefiting the environment.

Rain Barrel

This 54 gallon barrel collects pure rainwater as it runs off your roof. Not only does this watering method save on your water bill, rainwater is healthier for plants. A mesh screen on top filters out debris as well as mosquito larvae. It also keeps wildlife and pets from drinking out of the top. At the bottom of the barrel a spigot is attached so you can fill your watering can and take care of you garden in a very eco-friendly way.

A challenge in Mario's garden was the amount of natural shade. Richard and I chose plants that do well in partial to full shade. We included a number of variegated plants whose light-colored foliage brightened up the shade and complimented each other.

Plants Chosen:

Deep Shade (as seen and identified on TV segment):
Solomon's Seal: This perennial can be used as ground cover in all areas of your garden, from partial sun to shade. It is a tough, reliable plant and will brighten a dark garden.
Hosta 'Sum of All': This hardy plant blooms lavender flowers and its shiny green leaves have a golden border. Its average foliage height is 36 inches while its diameter at mature growth may be 60 inches.
Toad lily: Toad lilies are woodland plants that prefer shade and slightly acidic soil. Their flowers are usually white and yellow in color and the plant itself may grow from 6 inches to four feet in height.
Japanese forest grass: This light yellow grass requires rich, well-drained soil and does well in the shady areas of your garden.

Dappled Shade:
Hardy Hibiscus 'Clown'
Rhododendron- Rhododendron yakushimanum 'Yaku Prince'
Euonymous- Euonymous fortunei 'Blondy'
Snakeroot- Cimicifuga racemosa 'Hillside Black Beauty'
Ligularia- Ligularia stenocephala 'The Rocket'
Coral bells- Heuchera 'Cherries Jubilee'

Near the Shed:
Daylily - Hemerocallis sp. 'Happy Returns'
Japanese andromeda -Pieris yalens 'Prelude'
Lace cap hydrangea -Hydrangea macrophylla 'Coerula Lace'
Hardy Geranium- 'Rozanne'
Oakleaf Hydrangea

For more information please visit the URI Greenshare Factsheet Index at http://www.uri.edu/ce/factsheets/index.htm and/or call the URI Master Gardener's at
1-800-448-1011.

Plant Pro Tips written by Rosie Lalli, URI Coastal Fellow