Start with what is already working
Notice which plants are healthy, properly sized, and suited to their light and moisture conditions. Mature plants can provide valuable structure, habitat, and year-round interest. Keeping them also gives a renewed garden an established feeling from the start.
Move plants with a clear reason
A plant may be healthy but poorly placed. It might block a path, crowd a window, disappear behind larger shrubs, or struggle because the site is too wet, dry, sunny, or shaded. Moving it can improve both the design and the plant’s chance of thriving.
Divide crowded perennials
Some established perennials become congested, flower less, or leave the centre of the plant bare. Dividing them can refresh growth and provide additional plants for open areas elsewhere in the garden.
Plant for the conditions you have
North Vancouver properties often include deep shade, mature roots, wet winter soils, sloped areas, and pockets that become surprisingly dry in summer. Plant selection should respond to those conditions rather than fight them.
Improve the soil before adding plants
Good planting begins below the surface. Address compaction, drainage, organic matter, and existing root competition before installing new material. Thoughtful preparation reduces stress and helps new plants establish more reliably.
Leave room for growth
New gardens can look sparse at first, but plants need room to reach their mature size. Proper spacing improves airflow, reduces crowding, and avoids unnecessary pruning or transplanting later.
Use fall to plan, not force
Some work can happen right away, while other changes are better scheduled for spring or a plant’s dormant period. A good fall assessment identifies priorities and creates a realistic sequence for the next season.
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