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Easy Ways to Make My Yard Look Less Neglected

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A neglected yard can drag down your home’s curb appeal and even reduce property value. The good news? You don’t need a massive budget or a complete landscaping overhaul to turn things around. For Calgary homeowners, smart yard updates, paired with expert guidance from ISA-certified arborists, can make a major difference. From pruning to planting, here’s how to give your yard a fresh, clean look that lasts.


1. Start with a Basic Clean-Up

One of the quickest wins is a simple yard clean-up. Focus on:

  • Raking leaves and debris after the final frost

  • Trimming overgrown shrubs and plants

  • Removing weeds and dead annuals

  • Edging garden beds and walkways for a crisp look


In Calgary, winter often leaves behind broken branches and salt-damaged turf. A post-winter clean-up helps reset your landscape for the growing season.


2. Repair Patchy or Damaged Lawns

Calgary’s dry climate and short growing season are tough on turfgrass. Bare spots and dry patches are common, but you can improve lawn health by:

  • Overseeding in early spring or fall

  • Top-dressing with compost to enrich soil

  • Watering deeply but infrequently to build strong roots


If you have areas where grass just won’t grow, swap turf for mulch or native ground covers like creeping juniper. These low-maintenance options require less water and stay green throughout the summer.


Need help with stubborn lawn issues? Contact Evergreen LTD to assess soil quality and suggest sustainable solutions.


3. Prune Overgrown Trees and Shrubs

Nothing says “neglected yard” like unkempt or hazardous trees. Proper pruning:

  • Enhances shape and symmetry

  • Removes dead or damaged limbs

  • Promotes healthy growth and airflow


In Calgary, tree pruning is best done in late winter or early spring. ISA-certified arborists like those at Evergreen LTD follow ANSI A300 standards to ensure tree health, safety, and long-term structure. DIY pruning often causes more harm than good, schedule a professional tree assessment today.


4. Add Mulch for a Clean, Finished Look

Mulching is a fast, affordable way to improve curb appeal while protecting plant roots. Benefits include:

  • Weed suppression

  • Moisture retention in dry conditions

  • Soil insulation during temperature swings


Use 2–3 inches of natural mulch (like wood chips), and keep it a few inches away from tree trunks. Done right, mulch makes garden beds look polished and well-maintained.



5. Plant Low-Maintenance Native Species

Tired plants or empty garden beds? Native perennials thrive in Calgary’s conditions and offer long-lasting beauty with minimal upkeep. Great options include:

  • Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

  • Silver sage (Artemisia cana)

  • Wild rose (Rosa acicularis, Alberta’s provincial flower)


Native plants require less water, resist local pests, and support pollinators. If you’re unsure what to plant, Evergreen LTD can design a custom planting plan using drought-tolerant species that look great year after year.


6. Add Structure with Defined Spaces and Focal Points

A few thoughtful features can instantly upgrade a neglected yard. Try:

  • A birdbath, container garden, or bench to draw attention

  • Defined seating areas bordered by pavers or gravel

  • Painted fences or trellises to add vertical interest


These elements guide the eye, break up open spaces, and make even sparse yards look intentional. Want help visualizing your space? Ask Evergreen LTD for layout ideas tailored to your yard’s size and sunlight.


7. Work with a Certified Arborist for Long-Term Health

A cluttered, overgrown, or dying landscape is often a symptom of deeper problems. Certified arborists provide a holistic approach to yard health. Services include:

  • Tree risk assessments

  • Hazard removal or strategic thinning

  • Deep-root fertilization and pest control

  • Guidance on long-term plant health care


Hiring a qualified arborist is the best way to protect your trees, your yard’s most valuable asset. Evergreen LTD’s team of ISA-certified professionals delivers trusted, safety-first care for Calgary properties.


Reclaim Your Yard, Without the Overwhelm

Improving a neglected yard doesn’t have to be a massive project. Start with clean-up, add mulch, update plantings, and most importantly, invest in expert tree care. In Calgary, where harsh weather and dry conditions challenge even the most diligent homeowner, professional help can make all the difference.


Ready to give your yard a second chance? Contact Evergreen LTD for a personalized consultation today.

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