Hampton Roads Garden Coach :: Kathy Van Mullekom

Sometimes a helping hand . . . is all you need to get things growing and going in your yard.

The Garden Coach, aka Kathy Van Mullekom of York County, provides that guidance. Schooled in horticulture at Christopher Newport University, Kathy has gardened in all environments and knows what plants thrive best in Hampton Roads' challenging climate.

Kathy can help you: Plan your garden and learn how to care for your plants; identify existing plants; rejuvenate a tired yard; shop for plants; or just answer questions about your yard. She can also help you get the curb appeal your yard deserves. Pruning advice given, too. E-mail her for rates/services at kathy@hrgardencoach.com

Do Your Homework

A little prep work and thought saves gardening heartaches. Plants have the same needs as people - food, water and air - so give them what they need and you both will thrive and be happy.

Evaluate your site.
If it’s sand- or clay-heavy soil, work in compost and shredded hardwood mulch to improve aeration, moisture retention and drainage.

Right plant, right spot.
Don’t put a shade-loving azalea in sun; don’t put a sun-thriving coneflower under a tree. The same goes for soil conditions; don’t put moisture-hungry milkweed in a dry spot or drought-tolerant sedum where it stays wet.

Give them space.
Read labels to learn how large plants grow and space them properly. Air and light moving in and around plants reduces disease and pest problems.


Knock Out Roses They resist diseases and pests and require only moderate moisture, even during droughts. Old flowers never need removing and new blossoms keep appearing. In February, prune them back with hedge clippers.		Wax myrtle This native plant grows in sun or shade, moist or dry soil. The evergreen can be left to grow naturally or prune into a hedge or small tree shape. Its aromatic scent is pleasing; its berries benefit songbirds.		Camellias Fall- and spring-blooming camellias provide flowers in your yard six months of the year. Feed and prune them when flowering is finished. Prune to remove crossing, rubbing and diseased branches; feed them an acid-loving fertilizer.