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The Home and Garden Show is your go-to destination for landscaping inspiration — but don’t head in without a plan! Choosing trees, shrubs or perennials that thrive in your yard starts with understanding your space and needs.

This year, Bentley Ridge Tree Farm & Nursery, the sponsor behind the show’s stunning feature gardens, is sharing expert advice to help you prepare. Their plants, carefully grown in Grimes, Iowa, are the foundation of this year’s displays.

“Helping customers make informed decisions is our top priority,” says Jimmy Juergens, Sales Manager at Bentley Ridge. “If the plant isn’t right for your space, we’ll work with you to find a better fit — no matter what.”

Here are Juergens' top five tips to ensure your landscaping vision is rooted in success before you visit the Des Moines Home and Garden Show this February.

1. Identify Your Preferences

Think about the look and feel you want to achieve. Do you want flowering trees for seasonal color or shrubs for privacy? Come prepared with your likes and dislikes to streamline your selection.

“We often ask, ‘Do you need this tree to bloom in spring, avoid attracting bees, or fit into a specific space?’ These details help us find the perfect match,” says Juergens.​

2. Plan for Growth

Consider how your chosen plants will grow over the years. Overcrowding is a common mistake in landscaping, so always think long-term.

“We take a conservative approach,” Juergens explains. “We look at the 10-year maturity of plants. Sometimes, you think you need five plants when two will suffice for the space.”​

3. Choose Based on Environment

Iowa’s unique soil and climate conditions require careful consideration. Not all plants labeled as "hardy" will thrive locally.

“Our info sheets are specific to Iowa conditions,” says Juergens. “What works elsewhere might not thrive here. We emphasize plants that can survive and perform well in Iowa’s environment.”​

4. Don’t Forget Watering Needs

Understanding your yard’s water flow and drainage is vital to choosing the right trees or shrubs to plant.

“If a backyard is prone to water flow issues, evergreens might not be the best choice,” notes Juergens. “Instead, consider a mix of trees and shrubs that tolerate those conditions better.”​

5. Consider Maintenance

Different plants have varying maintenance requirements. Be prepared to commit to proper care, especially for young trees. Some trees require regular pruning to maintain their shape or remove dead branches, while others need minimal trimming.

“One of the biggest issues we see is people leaving stakes on trees for too long,” says Juergens. “After one year, you should remove the stakes and check if the tree can stand on its own. Trees need to adapt to the wind to develop stronger roots; otherwise, they’ll struggle long-term.”

Experience the Expertise at the Show

Visit Bentley Ridge at the Des Moines Home + Garden Show to explore their display gardens and connect with their knowledgeable staff. The team will have their plant catalog available and can access detailed information sheets for every variety they carry. Whether planning a privacy screen, looking for the perfect shade tree, or seeking to create a pollinator-friendly garden, their experts can guide you toward success.

The Des Moines Home + Garden Show runs February 13-16 at the Iowa Events Center. For information on show hours and tickets, visit desmoineshomeandgardenshow.com.