Get matched with top landscapers in Happy Valley, NM

As much as you might try to keep a healthy, nutrient-rich lawn, you still may notice signs of St. Augustine decline (SAD)—a viral disease that discolors your grass blades. St. Augustine decline looks like:

• Discoloration in the leaves (chlorosis)—leaves appear yellow and splotchy

• Decline in growth

• Leaves turn black within 3 years

• Grass appears less vibrant

• Grass begins to thin

• Root rot

• Grass takes longer to recover

The best place to plant a rose bush is where it will be happiest. Growing roses is difficult if the location varies much from what the plants like. Choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight during the growing season but not much more than that in hot-climate locations. If such a spot doesn't exist in your yard, consider planting your rose in a movable container to take advantage of portability.

Unless it only rains once in a blue moon where you live, you’re going to want water-loving plants in your garden bed or pot. A few ideas for plants that aren’t super fast-growing (meaning they’re good in pots or near foundations) and can handle a lot of standing water include: 

• Acorus (Sweet flag)

• Colocasia esculenta (Taro or elephant ear): In many climates, these are annuals, making them less desirable because you need to adjust the chain again after each replant.

• Equisetum scirpoides (Dwarf horsetail rush): non-dwarf varieties of horsetail are fast growers and can take over quickly.

• Juncus effusus (Curly rush)

• Osmunda regalis (Royal fern): Royal fern can grow quickly but can also handle being crowded, making them good container plants.

Consulting your local university extension, Audubon society, or municipal urban forestry program are all good ideas when choosing a tree to plant. You can also ask an arborist or a knowledgeable landscaping company for advice on good trees to plant.