It is very easy to look at your neighbors yard and begin to compare every piece. It is even harder NOT to compare when you see the same plant or similar plantings doing better next door. Stay calm! That hydrangea may look bigger or brighter or bloom more than yours right NOW, but that may not always be true.
- Is their plant older than yours? Plants can change considerably after they have established themselves to the area planted. They change even more once they have reached their maturity stage (when they begin to reproduce, ie: flower, set fruit, etc..).
- Is their plant getting the same sun exposure? How many hours a day does the plant receive direct and then indirect light? Each plant needs different amounts.
- Does their plant stay warmer or is it more sheltered from the elements because of its placement? Brick/stone walls absorb and radiate heat keeping an area warm longer.
- Is the soil around your plant new? compact and full of clay? Much needed nutrients can be locked up in soil if it doesn’t have the right composition.
- Water, disease, and pests also have great affect on how a plant survives or thrives.
Read over the plants requirements and evaluate if all it’s ‘needs’ are being met. Adjust what is needed and then be patient. No two plants will ever be exactly the same even if grown right next to each other. It may just need a season to establish itself to compete with the neighbor. Enjoy the process!
