Hudson Flower Planting Services

Our Flower Planting Process

Hudson’s Glacial Till Soils: Site Preparation and Amendment for Flower Planting

Hudson’s predominant soils, as identified by the USDA Web Soil Survey, are glacial till types such as Paxton and Canton fine sandy loams. These soils are typically moderately to poorly drained, with pH values ranging from 5.2 to 6.2, and often contain significant gravel and stone content. For successful flower planting, it is essential to address compaction and drainage by incorporating 2-3 inches of compost tilled to a 6-inch depth. Soil testing through UMass Extension is recommended (typical cost: $15-25) to determine lime or sulfur needs for pH adjustment. Key site preparation steps include:

• Remove rocks larger than 2 inches in diameter
• Apply lime if pH is below 6.0 (per test results)
• Ensure planting beds are raised at least 6 inches in poorly drained areas
• Use mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds

Flower Planting Timing and Climate Considerations in Hudson

Hudson is located in USDA Hardiness Zone 6a, with average last frost dates around May 10 and first frost dates near October 10. Optimal planting windows for annuals and perennials are April 20 to June 10 in spring, and August 20 to September 20 for fall installations. Soil temperature should reach at least 50°F for spring planting. The National Weather Service Boston/Norton Office provides up-to-date soil and air temperature data for scheduling. Timing guidelines include:

• Spring planting: April 20 – June 10 (soil temp 50-65°F)
• Fall planting: August 20 – September 20 (before first frost)
• Avoid planting during July-August heat stress
• Water new plantings 1 inch per week during establishment

Municipal Coordination: Hudson’s Department of Public Works and Planting Regulations

All flower planting projects in Hudson must comply with local ordinances regarding public right-of-way, setback requirements, and debris disposal. The Department of Public Works oversees planting in public spaces and enforces regulations such as:

• Setbacks: Maintain 5-foot minimum from sidewalks and 10 feet from intersections
• Equipment operation hours:
  • Monday-Friday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Sunday/Holidays: Prohibited
• Debris disposal: Use biodegradable bags or 32-gallon bins for plant waste; collection occurs Thursdays, April-November
• Permit required for planting in tree belts or near utilities (fee: $25; review: 5-10 business days)

Hudson Department of Public Works
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-9333
Official Website: Hudson Department of Public Works

Environmental Compliance: Wetland Buffers and Stormwater Protection in Hudson

Flower planting near Hudson’s wetlands, streams, and conservation areas is regulated under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and the town’s Wetlands Protection Bylaw. Key requirements include:

• Maintain a 25-foot no-disturbance buffer from all wetlands
• No fertilizer or pesticide application within 50 feet of water bodies
• Prohibit plant debris in storm drains per Clean Water Act and MS4 permit
• Use only organic mulch and native species in buffer zones
• Report any soil disturbance within 100 feet of wetlands to the Conservation Commission

Hudson Conservation Commission
78 Main Street, Hudson, MA 01749
Phone: (978) 562-2948
Official Website: Hudson Conservation Commission

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection
Boston, MA
Official Website: Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection

Selecting Native and Resilient Flower Species for Hudson’s Conditions

Selecting flower species adapted to Hudson’s climate and soils improves long-term success and reduces maintenance. Recommended species for full sun include black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), purple coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), and daylily (Hemerocallis spp.). For partial shade, consider astilbe (Astilbe chinensis), hosta (Hosta spp.), and coral bells (Heuchera americana). Deer-resistant options include lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and Russian sage (Perovskia atriplicifolia). Native species such as wild bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) and cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) support pollinators and comply with conservation guidelines. Plant spacing should be 12-18 inches for annuals and 18-24 inches for perennials to ensure healthy growth and air circulation. For further guidance, consult UMass Extension.

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Hudson, MA?

• Downtown Hudson: Features compacted urban soils and limited green space, requiring raised beds and careful plant selection for shade and salt tolerance.
• Brigham Hill: Characterized by sloped lots and well-drained sandy loam, ideal for perennial beds but requiring erosion control measures.
• Assabet Village: Proximity to the Assabet River and wetlands necessitates strict buffer compliance and use of native, moisture-tolerant species.
• Cranberry Lane Area: Newer developments with fill soils and moderate drainage; soil testing and amendment are critical for successful establishment.
• Forestvale: Dense tree canopy and acidic soils favor shade-tolerant, woodland species and require regular leaf litter management.
• Gates Pond District: Near conservation land and water supply, subject to additional restrictions on fertilizer and pesticide use to protect water quality.
• Tripps Pond: Floodplain location with periodic high water table; raised beds and flood-tolerant plantings are recommended.