8 Tips for Lovely, Low-Cost Gardens

Our gardens are usually lovely because my husband and I take good care of them. 

But there’s another reason we’re pleased: nothing we add costs us much. Some gardening tips to share:

1. Look for end-of-season sales.Many plants in our garden were bought in late June or early July. Remember: water generously that first summer.
2. Divide mature plants. Hosta, hydrangea, phlox, bee balm — most perennials, in fact — may be divided within 2 to 4 years of planting, instantly creating more mature plants for other spaces in your garden. We got these green-and-white hosta from our neighbours’ garden and have divided them repeatedly in two years.
3. Consider gift certificates.If you have a big anniversary and friends ask “What would you really like?”, suggest gift certificates from one centrally-located and reputable nursery. I never remember this until it’s too late.  But with a few certificates, you could get a…