Reclaiming an Overgrown Garden: Step-by-Step Restoration

Time transforms gardens—sometimes into chaotic jungles. Reclaiming an overgrown landscape takes effort, but a systematic approach restores order and beauty over several seasons.

Restoration Steps

1. Plant Identification & Removal

Mow, edge, and identify unwanted volunteers and underperformers. Remove entirely, roots and all. For large trees/deadwood, hire an arborist. Spring is ideal for assessing remaining plants.

2. Divide Overgrown Perennials

In fall, dig and divide clumping perennials (grasses, tubers, corms). Replant desired amounts; discard aggressive spreaders.

3. Rejuvenation Pruning

For overgrown shrubs/trees, hard pruning in early spring (before bud break) stimulates compact growth. Hardy species (dogwood, lilac, honeysuckle, hydrangea, abelia, St. John’s Wort) can be cut to 6–10 inches. For unsure plants, remove ⅓ per year over three years. Smaller shrubs: trim back ⅓ annually.

4. Weed Control

• Hand-weed thoroughly.
• Chemical: Glyphosate (systemic), avoid wind drift.
• Solarization: Hoe weeds, cover with black plastic for weeks.
• Mulch heavily after clearing to suppress regrowth.

Patience and persistence pay off—your garden’s “bones” will re-emerge.