The Real Deal: Spruce up your yard without spending a lot of green

Looking to add some color to your lawn? Prices on plants are up, as is almost everything.
Expect to pay anywhere from 10% to 30% more on plants, shrubs and flowers as the price of fuel, fertilizer and wages have climbed.
News 12's consumer reporter Janice Lieberman has some tips to help you spruce up your lawn without spending a lot of green.

NEW GARDENERS

Don't go crazy and buy a whole lot of stuff the first time - because you need to see how it's going to work out.

SPACE OUT YOUR PROJECT

Don't try to do the entire project in one shot. You can do the project in sections, and even do it year by year, or weekend by weekend.

HANGING BASKETS

For color, think about hanging baskets, which should last the season and are inexpensive.

PERENNIALS

Perennials are a good way to start a garden. They can bloom all season long and they come back every year.

ANNUALS

Intersperse annuals for added color, but they will have to be replaced every year.

GRASS

Ornamental grasses are an inexpensive way to spruce up your backyard, and the deer don't like them.

HAVE PATIENCE, AND SAVE

If you want to be economical, some plants are available at half the size and probably half the cost, and you'll get the same result once they grow.

DEALS

The best time to get a deal on perennials and bulbs is the fall when nurseries have to move their inventory. Consider asking a friend to split their growing plants and herbs with you. And check Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for free giveaways at the end of the season.
If you have a story idea, question or tip, click here to reach out to Janice.