Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

How much mulch do I need?

Accepted Answer

One yard of mulch typically covers an area of 80-100 square feet at a thickness of 3 inches.

Question 2

Why aren't my hydrangeas blooming?

Accepted Answer

Hydrangeas may not bloom due to various factors linked to their type and care needs. Identifying the hydrangea type is crucial: Big-leaf varieties, like “Endless Summer,” bloom on old wood and should be pruned right after blooming. Panicle and Smooth-leaf varieties, such as “Limelight” and “Annabelle,” require pruning in late winter or early spring. Getting the timing wrong can affect blooming. Light levels are essential too—Big-leaf needs morning sun and afternoon shade, while Panicle and Smooth-leaf need full sun. Extreme cold during budding can damage blooms, and drought conditions necessitate regular watering. Additionally, critters like deer may damage buds and branches.

Question 3

How much grass seed do I need?

Accepted Answer

For over-seeding, use 2-4 lbs. per 1000 square feet. For new seeding, use 6-8 lbs. per 1000 square feet.

Question 4

Do you offer landscape design services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mathies Landscaping Inc. provides landscape design services with a registered Landscape Architect. This includes creating outdoor living spaces, improving curb appeal, and phased project completion. Prices vary by property size and design complexity.

Question 5

When is the best time to plant a tree?

Accepted Answer

Spring and fall are the best times to plant trees because the cooler temperatures and extra moisture from seasonal rains tend to allow the tree to get established before the summer starts.   Planting a tree in the fall can require a little less maintenance as it will go dormant and not as much care or water is needed until the following spring.  You can also plant trees when they are still dormant. Planting a dormant tree allows the tree to establish a strong root system before establishing leaves or shoots.

Question 6

Do you sell gift cards?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do! We offer gift cards in whatever amount you desire! Gift cards are great for those “hard to buy” people in your life.

Question 7

Do you sell bereavement items?

Accepted Answer

We have a nice selection of plaques, plaque stands, benches, crosses, statuary, and windchimes. We do deliver to funeral homes within Shelbyville, IN. for free. We can put a bow with a small sympathy card on whatever item that is selected for either delivery or cash and carry.

Question 8

What’s wrong with my plant?

Accepted Answer

Plants are living organisms that require the necessities of water, light and soil to live. Plants can also be impacted by disease and insects. We need to look at each of these necessities and variables to figure out why that plant is struggling.  Is that plant getting too much water or not enough water?  Plants are going to show yellow leaves with both. If a plant is dry, it typically yellows from the center of the plant outward, whereas with a plant that has too much water it is going to yellow randomly throughout the plant. Overwatering can promote root rot and crown rot. The best way to figure out if your plant is too wet or too dry is to stick your finger in the soil.   Some plants like full sun, while some plants like shade. It is important to know what kind of plant you have and what kind of light it likes. A shady plant that is planted in a sunny location is going to struggle with yellowing leaves, burnt leaves, and heat stress. If a sunny plant is planted in a shady area it is going to struggle with lack of blooms, spindly and pale growth, yellow leaves and stunted growth.   Soil provides essential macronutrients, root stability and dictates how water is drained or retained. Soil that is clay is going to hold moisture and can cause root rot or other disease, whereas sandier soil is going to let moisture drain through and dry that plant up. The best type of soil for most plants is a well-drained, organically rich soil. So, if your soil is either clay or sandy it is advisable to amend them with a good topsoil and some organic material such as peat moss, compost and manure.   Sometimes plants have problems if they are infested with insects. Insect damage can look like the leaves have chew marks on them, mottling and a sticky substance on them. Look carefully at the plant to see if you see any insects. You can also shake the leaves of the plant over a piece of white paper to see tiny insects.   Disease is another factor in the decline of plants. Disease can appear on the leaves, stems and inner stems of plants. Disease can appear as a white powdery film, a rusty powder or scorched areas on leaves. Disease can also manifest as dark circling within the stems of plants.   So, when trying to figure out why your plant is declining, look at all these variables. Your problem might be as simple as holding off on a watering plant until it dries out.

Question 9

Do you sell vegetables?

Accepted Answer

We sell over 40 varieties of bulk garden seed along with seed potatoes and onion sets in the early spring. In late spring we have a nice assortment of vegetable plants and herbs. Vegetables always taste the best when they are grown at home!!!!!!

Mathies Landscaping Inc. Assistant

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