Neglected flower gardens almost always suffer from weed infestation, poor soil quality and over grown perennials. Over time they become a tangled mess of weeds and perennials. These gardens, however, can be restored and brought back to life.
To start, determine what perennials are growing in the garden and mark the healthiest ones with garden stakes. Next, dig up any perennials not worth saving and toss them in the compost pile. At this point you can begin transplanting the plants you wish to save. Carefully dig out the perennials from the garden making sure to keep as much of the root system intact as possible. Remove any weeds that were dug up along with the plant. Place the perennial in the shade until the garden is to be planted.
Once the healthy perennials have been set aside the entire garden can be dug up and turned over. Sift out the weeds as you go. Turning over compacted soil and allows air, water and nutrients to reach the roots of your plants. Once the weeds are removed spread a layer of organic matter, such as compost or manure, throughout the garden and till it in. This will replace nutrients the soil has lost due to leaching. Also, test the pH of the soil and add lime if it has become acidic.
Perennials increase in size each season so before you replant they may need to be divided. To do this simply take a shovel or garden edger and slice the plant into smaller pieces. Dividing will increase your plant stock as you may be able to turn one perennial into 3 or 4. Generally, fall blooming perennials should be divided in the spring while spring bloomers prefer division in the fall. When replanting your perennials, be sure to plant them at the depth they originally were. The top of the root ball should be at the same grade as the garden. Also, replant any bulbs which have dug up during this process.
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