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66 maconmagazine.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021 O ur "curb appeal" discussion started in the last edition of Macon Magazine with a focus on lawns. Grass may provide the subtle ribbon that ties the landscape together, but trees and shrubs are really where the interest and beauty reside. They allow your landscape to come alive with a variety of colors, textures and shapes. Regardless of your neighborhood or lot size, trees and shrubs can really transform a house into a home. PREPARATION IS THE KEY TO SUCCESS Have a plan — that's good life advice, but especially good landscape GREEN THUMB TIPS FALL IS THE PERFECT TIME TO PLANT TREES AND SHRUBS BY KAROL KELLY YOU CAN'T HAVE FRUITS WITHOUT THE ROOTS I think it's human nature to want to get our hands in the soil when the temperature's warm and our plants awaken from their winter slumber in the spring. However, did you know that fall is actually the ideal time to plant new shrubs and trees? The cooler fall and winter months give plants an opportunity to establish their new root systems before the next season of growth begins. Proper planting is also a big key to success. Shrubs and trees should be planted in holes at least three times the width of the container or root ball. advice! Spend some time observing your yard. What areas receive at least six hours of sun? Are there parts that are predominately shaded? Where is your water source? Is there a spot you'd like to plant a border to buffer your backyard from your neighbors? A simple, hand-drawn plan works fine. There are a myriad of websites and videos giving guidance on making plans. I don't have any favorites to suggest — try out a few and see what works best for you. If you have a little money to spare for establishing a new landscape or renovating an existing one, investing in a professional to work with you to develop a plan will be money well spent.