How To Prepare Your Commercial Landscape For Fall and Winter

How To Prepare Your Commercial Landscape For Fall and Winter

/in /by

During the summer, you don’t want to think about those fall and winter chores. However, before you know it, fall and winter will arrive in your town. Now is the time to prepare your landscape for these seasons. Here are some simple ways that you can prepare your commercial landscape for fall & winter.

Turn Over the Mulch

If your commercial space uses mulch around your property, then you may want to use the cooler fall weather to give it a refresh. During the summer, the harsh sun and heavy rains can start to deteriorate your mulch. While it might be a good idea to add more mulch to your spaces, there are other ways to refresh your landscape. You can extend the mulch’s life by turning over the current layer. With a garden rake or shovel, fluff up the mulch for a healthier landscape.

In some cases, the old mulch will need to be replaced, but there are dangers of over-mulching. If you have too much new mulch on your landscape, you could be inviting pests or exposing your trees and plants to disease. Certain mulches can even raise the levels of your lawn’s pH. Turning over your mulch is a healthier alternative for a commercial landscape for fall & winter.

Dethatch Your Lawn

In the fall, you should dethatch your landscape. Thatch consists of dead grass roots and stems. While these elements naturally buildup in your lawn, you want to remove them from your landscape. Over time, thatch can lead to more debris in your yard that can harm the health of your landscape. You also want to remove thatch since it makes your commercial property look unruly. Thatch will also create the perfect nesting spot for insects and rodents. You can remove thatch by lowering your lawnmower’s height. Aerating your lawn will also help to break up thatch.

Aerate Your Grass

If you want your lawn to weather the worst of the winter weather, then you need to aerate your turf while it is green. Aeration will give your yard a little breathing room as it starts to move into the colder months. These methods break up any compacted soil to allow the nutrients and water to reach the roots. During those dry winter months, you might want to water the lawn by hand to help it turn green. This process can help your lawn look greener during the first stages of spring.

Protect Those Vulnerable Shrubs and Trees

For those property owners with new shrubs or trees, you might want to wrap them up before the temperatures start to drop. This process should be done before the first frost of the season hits the area. When you shelter your trunks with a specialized wrapping material or burlap, it will work like a wind barrier to keep out freezing temperatures and reduce salt damage from de-icing products.

Plan Your Tree Trimming

During the winter, it is an ideal time to remove those overgrown or damaged branches. For many trees and shrubs, they are dormant and will not waste energy to recover from trimming. When you prune in the dormant season, you can also prevent diseases from destroying your trees. Those overgrown spruce trees and evergreens will also benefit from a healthy pruning in the winter months. If you want to have expert help with pruning, you should contact a professional landscaping company for commercial landscape for fall & winter. They will help you find the best times to prune your specific tree species so that you will not harm it.

Remove Those Fall Annuals and Protect the Perennials

For those properties with seasonal fall annuals, you will want to remove them after they have finished flowering for the year. If you leave them on the property, your commercial space will look deary and bare. For those perennials, you should cut the stems to within an inch from the ground. Many people will add pine needles, straw, or hay to protect the plants during the cold winter. This layer helps the perennials survive a damaging freeze.

You might also want to think about adding winter vegetation to your outdoor spaces. With a few new elements, your area will have some life throughout those cold winter months. Holly and other seasonal details can add a pop of color to your spaces.

Start Seeding for Fall

If you want to have lush green grass in the spring, start seeding during the autumn season. Fall aeration and overseeding can help to fill in those bare spots so that you have a thick turf in the spring. By introducing other grass species, you can make your grass less susceptible to diseases.

Plant for Spring

For those spring bulbs, fall is the best time to do some planting. With the crisp autumn air and warm soil, you will also want to plant new shrubs and trees. You should have these bulbs and plants in place by the middle of October. When you plant in the fall, your new shrubs and trees can adjust to their surroundings without enduring the harsh summer heat.

Prepare for the Holidays

In the fall, you can get ready for all those holiday decorations and lights. You don’t want to be outside in the cold weather as you make a clearing for your seasonal display. When winter rolls into town, you will be set to hang up your holiday decor as you welcome your customers or tenants.

Get Ready for Fall Prepare your Commercial Landscape for Fall & Winter

Fall and winter are great seasons to do a little yard work throughout your commercial property. However, you might not want to deal with these hassles by yourself. At Charlestown Landscaping, we can help with all these commercial property needs. Our team will take care of all those fall and winter chores on your list. After preparing your property, we will even help with snow removal services. We will make your commercial property look great throughout the year. If you would like more information about Charlestown Landscaping’s services, please fill out the contact form to schedule a consultation.

The Right Irrigation System for Your Commercial Landscape  

The Right Irrigation System for Your Commercial Landscape

/in /by

Irrigation systems can be beneficial to your commercial property. With these systems, you can help save on your water bills and keep up the appearance of your landscape. However, there are a few things that you need to consider for your property. By installing the right system, you can help your trees, plants, and flowers to grow healthy and strong throughout the year.

There are two types of irrigation systems used on commercial properties: spray irrigation and drip irrigation. In this guide, we will discuss the pros and cons of these methods to help you choose the best irrigation for your commercial property.

Spray Irrigation Systems

Spray irrigation systems will use a variety of valves and nozzles to spray out through sprinklers and tubes. The water will emit a fine spray that emulates water distribution like a natural rainfall. You can find this type of irrigation system in many commercial landscapes. This system is the most common form of irrigation.

There are many advantages when you use spray irrigation for your property. Many people choose this system because it is adjustable and customizable. With the fine mist, you might even see birds and other creatures cooling off in the refreshing spray. This type of system makes an excellent replacement for natural rain in areas that experience drought conditions.

You can adjust the spray patterns to meet the needs of your lawn or garden. If you need more water, it is a simple adjustment of the nozzle heads. This spray irrigation can also cover large surfaces to keep them well-watered throughout the year. Spray irrigation systems also incorporate smart technology to adjust the water distribution with a simple app. Finally, spray irrigation systems also make it easier for you to send water to stressed-out areas on your property.

While these systems have many advantages, there are some drawbacks to spray irrigation. These systems are popular and effective, but you need to have them installed and calibrated by a professional company. With the right installation, you can get the most benefits out of the system. Mature plants and trees can block the spray for other plants if the system is not correctly installed. On extremely windy days, you can experience a high level of water loss as the droplets are dispersed.

There is also a higher level of evaporation from these irrigation systems. You also have to watch out for the extra moisture that can be left on the plants’ leaves. When that happens, your plants will have a higher risk of sunscald or disease.

Drip Irrigation System

Drip irrigation systems are another type of water distribution for your commercial landscape. This system is a concentrated form of irrigation, and it is also called a micro-irrigation system. With the help of a few small tubes, the water is moved around your landscape. The water is controlled with regulators and valves so that you can regulate the amount of irrigation. Drip irrigation systems allow you to deliver the water right to the intended area as it drips into the soil surface. This system has a variation called subsurface drip irrigation. With this system, the tube is placed underground with a direct route to the roots.

Like spray irrigation, there are a few benefits of drip irrigation. These systems can help both new and well-established landscapes. It is also a more efficient system that offers less water waste and evaporation. Drip irrigation systems can help you to water those gardens with irregular shapes and hard-to-reach spots on your property. You will also notice an even water distribution with this system. Drip irrigation is an excellent choice for those who want less fertilizer run-off and soil erosion. Since the water does not make contact with the leaves, you can prevent disease in your plants. Drip irrigation will also avoid problems that could damage asphalt, siding, or windows with overspray.

However, there are some disadvantages to drip irrigation systems. If you live in an area with strong sunlight, your system’s tubing can be damaged if the components are above the ground. Without the proper filtration for your water, this irrigation has a higher chance of blockages in the system. For those with a large area of land to water, it can be difficult to irrigate with this system. Drip systems are also vulnerable to damages from pests, landscaping tools, and foot traffic. You also cannot use these types of systems for frost control, unlike a spray system. Finally, once you have installed the system, it can be challenging to check once your landscape starts to mature.

Choose the System for You

Before you select a system for your commercial property, you need to understand your landscaping needs. If you are looking for a more technically advanced system, you might want to check out the spray irrigation system. Those hard to water areas will benefit from the installation of drip irrigation. With the right irrigation system, you will see a difference in the quality of your landscape. These systems can help to reduce your water usage and lower those monthly water bills. There are many advantages and disadvantages to these systems. However, with a little research, you can find the one that will help you get the most out of your irrigation system.

If you still have questions about your irrigation choices, you should contact the team at Charlestown Landscaping. We can help you find the best system for your commercial property. Our horticultural experts understand the needs of your trees, shrubs, and plants. We know what will work best with them to keep your property well-hydrated throughout the year.

In addition to providing advice, we can help with all those commercial property landscaping tasks. Our team will take care of the mowing, pruning, trimming, and much more. We will even add those finishing touches, like mulch and lawn edging, for a more pleasing appearance to your outdoor space. If you would like to contact us about commercial landscaping services, make sure to fill out the contact form.

Organic Mulch vs. Inorganic Mulch

Organic Mulch vs. Inorganic Mulch

/in , /by

For those who want a way to make your gardening more manageable, you should consider adding mulch to your outdoor spaces. Mulch is a great way to improve the look and health of your yard and gardens. These materials can help to produce healthier plants and flowers with less maintenance on your part. There are usually two types of materials used for mulches: inorganic and organic products. If you are wondering about the type of mulch to use in your yard, here are a few things that you will want to consider.

What Are Mulches?

Mulches can be made of organic or inorganic materials. These mulches have many benefits, including moisture retention, soil insulation, erosion control, weed reduction, and beautification. For those who want to reduce weeds in your yard, mulch will work to minimize the sunlight to these harmful plants. Once sunlight is limited, the weeds do not have a chance to grow. Weeds compete for water and nutrients with your plants. These weeds can even stunt the growth of trees. By reducing them, you can have a healthier garden and yard. However, different mulches offer different benefits to your yard.

Organic mulches are made from by-products of other industries, and these materials will decompose, such as grass clippings, straw, bark chips, compost, sawdust, and rice hulls. These materials are anything that you can find in a natural setting. On the other hand, inorganic mulches are made from man-made materials, including rocks, rubber chips, or plastic sheeting. While these materials are the opposite of each other, they are both used for aesthetic reasons and have their advantages.

Benefits of Organic Mulches

Organic mulches are known to deliver more benefits than inorganic mulches. These mulches consist of materials that would have been discarded. When these materials break down, they can provide nourishment into the soil. With an inorganic material, those mulches can look nice, but as they age, they will break down into non-recyclable pieces.

Those organic mulches will help nutrients reach down to the plant’s roots, and they can nurture beneficial worms, insects, and bacteria. These organisms control pests and harmful bacteria. Organic mulch provides insulation and keeps the soil cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. These materials reduce erosion by absorbing rainwater and soil-borne diseases that can form by the splashing rain. Organic mulch is known to eliminate soil crusting, which is a condition that can make it difficult for rain to penetrate the ground.

Roots develop better when planted in organic mulches. In addition to that, you can purchase organic mulches at a lower cost than inorganic materials. While there are many benefits, there are some drawbacks to these materials. For example, since the materials are organic, they can create a habitable environment for pests near the base of trees or plants.

Inorganic Mulch Benefits

These mulches are made from materials that do not quickly decompose in your garden. These mulches are used for different purposes than organic mulches. You can use stone, landscape fabric, plastic film, or shredded rubber as an inorganic mulch. Inorganic mulches are not appropriate for all yards, and they tend to be more costly than organic products. Depending on the material, these mulches can be hard to install.

However, like organic mulches, there are many benefits to these materials. If you want to create a barrier for weeds, you should add inorganic mulches to your yard. While they do not add any nutritional benefits, inorganic mulches have a lower need for replacement and help retain moisture. These materials are also highly versatile and can be found in many commercial garden centers.

Choose the Right Mulch for Your Yard

When choosing the right mulch for your space, you need to see which one will align with your landscaping goals. Organic mulches will provide your yard with nutrient-rich soil that can help your trees and plants thrive. Inorganic mulches will last longer and help with preventing weeds from taking up residence in your yard. Organic mulches do provide more benefits with natural materials. Inorganic mulches are man-made but not considered harmful to your yard. Before you decide on your mulch, you should consider your maintenance goals, yard health, and aesthetics of your outdoor space. Once you have done that, you can decide which one will work best for you.

Select the Right Materials

With any choice, you want to know about the source of your mulch. You should choose a material that is free from contaminants or pesticides. Fine materials, like sawdust or clippings, can stick together and prevent water from penetrating the ground. Depending on your mulch, you need to make sure that all the mulch is free from weeds. Since organic mulches are natural materials, they are known to attract bugs, such as pill bugs and earwigs. With inorganic mulches, you want to choose materials that will not pose a safety risk in your yard.

When to Apply Mulch?

Whether you choose organic or inorganic mulch, you want to apply these materials at the start of the growing season. Many people choose to use mulch in the late spring or fall so that the soil can still retain moisture. However, you should know that mulches, especially organic materials, will settle down into the ground. If you are applying these materials for the first time, you need to add more layers throughout the season. With a new layer of mulch, you can ensure that your yard will have continuous weed control as you create an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Regular mulching will help your yard to reduce water usage with fewer weeds in your garden.

Charlestown Landscaping can give you a few ideas for your outdoor space if you still cannot decide on the right mulch for your yard. Our team can help you select the best materials for your garden. We will let you know which ones will work best for your landscaping needs. To schedule a consultation for your space, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form.

Restaurant Landscaping Ideas To Boost Your Traffic

Restaurant Landscaping Ideas To Boost Your Traffic

/in , /by

If you are a restaurant owner, you want to find new ways to attract customers. In addition to your food and drink specials, other factors will influence a person to choose your restaurant. You don’t just want to draw in those first-time customers, but you want to build that repeat business. When someone is looking for a place to dine, they want a clean and aesthetically pleasing site. By adding a boost to your outdoor landscaping, you can attract those customers and keep them coming back to your place. Here are some ideas that you will want to add to your dining establishment.

Greet Guests With Greenery

Every restaurant owner wants to make a great first impression. With an updated green space, you can create an inviting place for your customers. Your entrance probably has concrete near the front of the building, which can create a harsh appearance. You should add some shrubs, flowers, or greens to this open space. When you add some greenery, your business will feel more welcoming to diners.

A few simple planters can even boost the appeal of your entrance. If you need to add some more ideas, you should consider creating an entryway with some added colorful foliage or plants. For those popular dining spots, you might have a waiting list for your diners. You should place benches for those waiting customers. All these ideas can create a relaxing space for your customers.

Create a Fun Outdoor Space

For many diners, they love the opportunity to dine outside on a beautiful day. Patios are an excellent place for people to kick back and relax. With an outdoor restaurant patio, you have an endless supply of landscaping ideas to boost your space. You can use trees and plants to provide extra shade in place of umbrellas. Small shrubs and flower baskets can give your area a little boost of color and add a border to your patio. If you are looking for privacy, you might want to consider climbing vines or plants for an intimate atmosphere.

For those restaurants that experience colder weather, a fire pit or fireplace will give your guests a cozier feel during the spring or autumn nights. Before you start adding plants and flowers to your space, you should do some research. For example, you don’t want to place plants that attract bees near the dining areas since that can create a negative experience. Diners don’t want to “shoo” away bees as they try to enjoy their meal.

Grow a Chef’s Garden

Many diners are fascinated by the restaurant experience, especially learning about the growing process of the meal’s ingredients. By growing your own herbs and vegetables, you can help entertain your customers. Some restaurants are even adding more complicated systems, such as aquaculture or hydroponic growing spaces. These unique features can separate you from the other restaurants in the area.

Many people want a “farm-to-table” experience with freshly picked herbs, fruits, and vegetables. If you’re going to go for something simpler, a vertical growing system will allow you to grow your own strawberries or greens. Your kitchen staff can harvest these ingredients and incorporate them into seasonal dishes.

Change With the Seasons

As a restaurant owner, you know that new ideas will keep your diners coming back to your spot. By swapping out a few elements, you can add those changes to your outdoor landscape. When you update your landscape design, you can give your diners a new look for every season. These improvements can provide some charm to your space as your patrons will appreciate your restaurant’s beautiful and fresh look. You can easily change out plants and flowers with the seasons by adding new textures and colors to your space.

Many people know about transitioning the landscape from the summer to fall seasons. However, you can keep up with those seasonal changes throughout the year. Winter is a great time to add dark green shrubs with a pop of color. Once spring rolls around, you might want to add some color to break away from the drab winter days. Not only will you keep your regular customers coming back, but these changes can help attract new diners with a fresh and updated look.

Water Creates a Soothing Environment

The sound of falling water can give your space a soothing atmosphere for your diners. While you might think that this feature is expensive and complicated, it is easy to add a water feature to your restaurant. You can purchase small waterfalls to place around the lobby or dining area. For some restaurants, a large fountain is a centerpiece to an outdoor patio. If you want to think about a bigger impression, you should consider a koi pond or a babbling brook to your restaurant. With any water feature, you will need to maintain it to keep your staff and customers safe.

Add a Trellis

For those restaurants with a patio or outdoor space, you should think about adding a trellis. This element gives you an excellent opportunity to add some more greenery to both your indoor or outdoor areas. Outdoor spaces are a great place for your restaurant to host events. The trellis can serve as the main focal point for a speaker, band, or wedding. If you have a trellis over a door, your guests can be greeted with a touch of fresh greenery and flowers. With any greens, you will want to keep them maintained so that they don’t give your space an unruly appearance.

Attract Those Customers

All these features can help you attract and keep customers coming to your restaurant. If you want an impressive patio feature or just add a touch of color, Charlestown Landscaping can handle the job. Our experienced team will help you design the landscape around your business. With some updated features, your restaurant will stand out and bring in more diners. If you are ready to upgrade your restaurant’s appearance, make sure to fill out the contact form to schedule a consultation.

What's The Difference Between A Landscape Architect and A Landscape Designer?

What’s The Difference Between A Landscape Architect and A Landscape Designer?

/in , /by

For those homeowners who want to tackle a big project, you might consider hiring a professional for the job. You have probably heard the terms “landscape architect” or a “landscape designer,” but is there a difference between them? These professionals handle separate areas of your project. Before you hire someone, here are some facts that you should know about landscape designing and architecture.

What Is a Landscape Architect?

A landscape architect will develop the land for your use with a practical placement of structures, walkways, and plantings. These professionals must know how to work with steep slopes, outdoor construction, irrigation systems, and varied elevations. A landscape architect will analyze, plan, design, and manage the entire project. You can see the handy work of a landscape architect in the design of a campus, commercial center, or waterfront if you walk through your local community. If you are looking to add a permanent outdoor feature to your outdoor space, you should consider hiring a landscape architect.

If you want to hire a landscape architect, they must have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in landscape architecture. Many of the college programs are accredited by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). A landscape architect also must pass an exam that is licensed by the state. This profession is one of a few that must be licensed in all states and the District of Columbia.

An experienced and reputable landscape architect will have the experience to work in the most challenging environments for both residential and commercial sites. Steep slopes and elevation problems are common issues for landscape architects, and your professional will know how to incorporate them into your design. In addition to that, a landscape architect will understand the right spots to place essential elements, such as driveways, entries, and parking areas.

Licensed landscape architects are used primarily for the planning and design of outdoor spaces. However, they play a vital role in the design and restoration of natural areas that have been disturbed by humans, including mined areas, stream corridors, wetlands, and forested lands. For many landscape architects, they have a respect for cultural resources and historic landscapes, and you will see them working on preservation projects for local, state, and national outdoor sites and spaces. You can find a landscape architect employed with public, academic, and private organizations.

What Is a Landscape Designer?

As you can tell, a landscape architect requires a lot of education to become licensed to work in your state. Landscape designers do not require the same level of education, and they primarily work on small residential projects. Some landscape designers will have an undergraduate degree in landscape architecture, but they lack the state license required to be called a landscape architect.

These designers will focus on outdoor spaces for your home or business by taking into account hardscape and softscape elements, maintenance, and seasonal changes. Since a higher education degree is not a requirement for the job, many landscape designers learn the profession on the job or enroll in local courses for landscape design or horticulture. While you might not think they have the experience of a landscape architect, these professionals still must work hard to be called a landscape designer.

Landscape designers are not licensed through the state, but there are professional groups for these designers. The most well-known is called the Association of Professional Landscape Designers (APLD). All the members must adhere to a code of professional standards as they actively continue their education and stay current with the latest landscape design trends. For many members, there is a certification program that is based on their completed projects. These jobs must pass a peer review program for the designer to be certified. You can search for a designer through their website if you are looking for a member of the APLD.

When you work with a landscape designer, there will be a consultation about the project. Your designer should take photos of the yard, and you will be asked about your preferences for garden maintenance and plants. Once the designer has your information, they will create a design with a drawing and plant list. Your designer might even accompany you to the local nurseries to make suggestions for your yard or help shop for furnishings and materials. The main component of a landscape designer’s job is plant placement. Your designer will often work with a contractor to excavate an existing garden or hardscape element, build decks or patios, or install plants.

Who Should You Choose?

Many landscape designers will work with smaller projects at your home, such as the placement of plants. These designers have the experience to help with hardscape elements, especially if they are located in areas with drought-prone regions. If you are looking for a more intense project that involves wall building, electrical work, or earth-moving construction, you should consider hiring a landscape architect for the job.

In general, there are a few differences between landscape architects and landscape designers. Architects have to adhere to strict licensing requirements, but designers also must meet the standards in their professional organization. You will find landscape architects working on larger, public projects throughout your town. Landscape designers will handle those smaller, residential projects. If you are looking to hire a professional for your job, you should choose one based on whether you have a simple or more complex project.

Charlestown Landscaping Can Design Your Outdoor Space

If you want an updated look to your outdoor space, you should choose the professional team at Charlestown Landscaping. We will handle all aspects of your project, including master planning and planting. Our team can take care of the design and installation phase as you focus on choosing the right features and materials to customize your space. Charlestown Landscaping wants to give you an outdoor space that you can enjoy for many years. In addition to design, we will care for your entire yard with our lawn care and landscape maintenance services. If you are ready to create a personalized space for you, make sure to fill out the contact form

Should I Fertilize or Kill Weeds First?

Should I Fertilize or Kill Weeds First?

/in , /by

Many people want to have that professionally manicured look for their yards. All those lush and green lawns do need a little help with the use of lawn fertilizer & weed control products. An essential part of the process is the exact time you choose to apply these products, along with selecting the right formula for your grass. If you are still confused about using these products, please take a few minutes to read up on lawn fertilizer & weed control.

Treat Those Weeds First

If you want to improve your lawn’s appearance, then you will need a weed control product and fertilizer. However, you need to apply these products in a specific order. The first course of action should be to use a safe herbicide to get rid of those weeds. Not only are weeds unsightly, but they can steal nutrients and water from your grass. The roots of the weeds will also compete for space in the first few inches of your soil, and they can effectively “choke” the grass and plant roots. As you can tell, it is vital to get rid of those weeds in your first step.

For those bare spots in your yard, you will want to till those spaces to help bring any weed seeds to the surface. A preemergent herbicide can be applied to the soil. Before you start adding fertilizer to your grass, you should wait at least a week. This period will give your grass a chance to absorb the weed control product. After a week, you can reseed your lawn with the appropriate grass species. In many cases, those palm-sized bare spots will fill in naturally. If there are still weeds poking through after a herbicide application, you might want to choose a glyphosate product to prevent further weeds in your yard.

When to Apply Grass Fertilization

When to Apply Grass Fertilization

Once you have sprayed the weeds with a herbicide, it is time to add fertilizer to your yard. In most cases, you need to apply lawn fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. Many people choose May or June to implement their first application of the fertilizer. You should think about adding another application of fertilizer in the early fall. When you are ready to apply fertilizer, your lawn should not be under any stress, such as scorching heat or heavy frosts. However, there are some exceptions to the rule with different grass species and climates.

Fertilizers are essential to your yard’s health, and it needs to be fed even in the fall and winter seasons. Many professionals suggest that you fertilize at least four times a year with two-month intervals. In some cases, fertilization can be skipped in the summer if your area experiences a substantial rain. That extra water can wash away the fertilizer, and those chemicals can end up in your drinking supply.

Weeds can affect the health of your grass and plants. You will want to get rid of them before adding fertilizers to your yard. While lawn fertilizers are created to boost the nutrients of your grass, these products can be harsh. When weeds are already stressing out the lawn, you don’t want to add a product that can cause additional problems for the health of your grass.

Check Your Soil Health

If you are having a constant problem with weeds, you might want to look at its source. Weed control products are great for occasional use, but you should not rely on them to maintain your lawn. You want to have a thick and healthy lawn to create a barrier to stop weed seeds from germination. The grass blades should be at least two inches tall to help reduce the amount of sunlight that can accelerate weed growth. Soil pH is another essential factor for a healthy yard. You should think about keeping a pH meter to test your soil. For the best growing environment, you want the soil to stay at a pH level of 7.0.

Weed Control and Feed

In any garden center, you will find a wide variety of “weed and feed” products. However, many of these products are not designed to kill those established weeds. These products use a preemergent herbicide formula to stop weed germination. If you have an established weed problem in your yard, you will want to avoid these weed control and feed formulas. You should focus on the spot control strategy to target those weeds. When you use herbicides and fertilizers separately, you can apply them in a specific manner for better control of your lawn care.

For your specific product, you will want to follow the instructions of the weed killer and fertilizers. When applying the weed killer, you should lightly water the lawn for a better application. Fertilizers required you to apply them on sunny days with no chance of rain. You want the chemicals to soak into the ground and not wash away.

Natural Weed Control Killers and Lawn Fertilizers

If you want to reduce your impact on the environment, you might want to use an organic product to protect pets, children, and local wildlife. Many people choose to use a spray instead of pellets to reduce the chance that a person or animal picks up the herbicide or fertilizer and ingests it. In many garden centers, you can find environmentally-friendly products that will treat your lawn and keep your family safe.

Treat Your Outdoor Space with Lawn Fertilizer & Weed Control

Lawn fertilizer & weed control products are useful tools to keep your grass looking thick and green. However, you need to treat those weeds before moving on to the fertilization stage. With this combination, you can keep your outdoor spaces looking well-maintained throughout the year.

If you don’t want to deal with the hassles of weed control and fertilization, you should hire a professional crew. At Charlestown Landscaping, we have the experience to handle all your lawn care needs, including weed control and fertilization. We can find the right solutions to give you a beautiful lawn without any of the hard work. Make sure to fill out the contact form to schedule a consultation with us.

Best Mulch Material for Commercial Property

Best Mulch Material for Commercial Property

/in /by

Mulching does more than improve the look of your property. It can help protect your landscape from weeds and soil erosion. Mulch is your first line of defense against extreme temperatures and soil diseases. If you want to have a great-looking property, you need to add mulch to your outdoor spaces. Before you start, here are some materials that will work best for your commercial property.

The Benefits of Mulch

It is important to understand the benefits of mulch. In general, all mulches will reduce your watering needs and improve moisture retention in your soil. Depending on the mulch type, these materials will decompose naturally for added nutrients into the ground. Mulch will keep down the growth of weeds, and if one does appear in your yard, you can easily remove it. These materials can also help guard roots against extreme temperature fluctuations and compacting soil. Finally, mulches add an aesthetic appeal to your yard as it breathes new life into your landscape.

The Different Types of Mulch

If you are ready to add mulch to your yard, it can be a little overwhelming to choose the right materials. There are many options that you will want to take into consideration for your yard. All these mulches have some benefits and disadvantages. With this information, you can choose the right material for your commercial space.

Pine

This type of mulch is available as pine straw, shredded bark, or nuggets. Pine straw will break down slowly in your yard. It gives your landscape a much softer and unique appearance when compared to other mulches. In addition to that, pine straw will increase the acidity level of your soil, and it is an excellent choice for areas with conifers, azaleas, and rhododendrons. Many people choose this type of mulch to add a layer of protection around new ornamentals.

Shredded pine bark provides moisture retention for your plants, and it can be easily spread around your property. Pine bark will break down quickly as it allows the nutrients to enter the soil. Nuggets are another option for those who want to use pine in their yards. You can buy these nuggets in a small or large size. With this type of mulch, the nuggets will last longer than straw or shredded bark. However, it is a looser mulch that tends to become dislodged during heavy rainfall. Nuggets also perform poorly for those who want a mulch that can help with water retention.

Hardwoods

Hardwoods are a popular type of mulch. You can get this mulch in the form of shredded bark or wood chips. Shredded bark is one of the most affordable types of mulch. Many people love it because the bark compacts closely to each other. You can use it on slopes without worrying about it washing away in a rainstorm. Shredded bark is a by-product of the lumber industry, and it is known for being easy to spread around the yard. This mulch also slowly breaks down into the ground, and it is an excellent choice for those who want a natural-looking landscape. While it does provide many benefits, hardwood mulches will increase the alkaline in your soil. You may have to add fertilizer to some areas of your landscape if you have acidic-loving plants.

Wood chips are a more durable type of hardwood mulch. You will see this type of mulch near walkways, paths, and playgrounds. When it starts to decompose, wood chips can create a high carbon to nitrogen ratio in your soil. If that happens, you could end up with nitrogen deficiencies in the ground.

Cypress Mulch

If you are looking for mulch with a golden color, you might want to turn to cypress. This type of mulch will naturally repel insects and fungus. In addition to that, the color of the mulch will reflect the sunlight so that your space will stay cooler in the summer. Due to its matting capabilities, cypress is also known to prevent soil erosion.

Cedar Mulch

Cedar mulch is known for its woodsy scent. While this mulch is more expensive than other varieties, it does last longer in your landscape due to its resistance to decay. The oils in the wood will naturally repel insects. Since it is a long-lasting material, it will not add any nutritional benefits to the soil. Depending on the color of the mulch, the lighter colors will reflect the sunlight, and the darker colors will absorb all that sunshine.

Rubber Mulch

All the other varieties are known as organic mulches. If you want an inorganic material, then rubber mulch might be the choice for you. These muscles are usually found on playgrounds, and they make for a soft surface. Rubber can be used around plants and trees, and it does a great job of preventing weeds and deterring pests. However, this permanent mulch does not break down, and it will not help improve soil quality. The rubber mulch cost is expensive, but you can find it in a wide range of colors.

Dyed Mulches

For those who want a specific color for their landscape, you might want to consider dyed mulch. These materials come in a large selection of colors, including brown, black, and red. The color is made from a water-based dye, and it is safe for pets and people. These dyed mulches will retain their color for a longer period of time than non-dyed varieties. Most dyed mulches are easy to spread and provide a more vibrant appearance to your landscape.

Need Help With Your Mulch?

You can count on the team at Charlestown Landscaping to help choose the right mulch for your commercial space. We have the experience to find the right materials that will work best with your yard. Our team can install and maintain it throughout the year. In addition to that, we can also assist with landscape care and other commercial services. To learn more about the services at Charlestown Landscaping, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form.

What should I expect from a landscape designer?

What should I expect from a landscape designer?

/in , , /by

If you have not worked with a landscape designer, you might not know what to expect. These expert designers can help you to achieve the landscape of your dreams. Most of these designers will have a set process to create your outdoor spaces. With some help, you can finally say “goodbye” to a dull, uninspired space as you enjoy the results from these landscaping professionals.

How Much Will It Cost?

According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to hire a landscape designer is around $4,300. However, that doesn’t mean you will spend that amount on your job. Simple projects may only require a short consultation to meet at the site. For most people, a landscape designer is an affordable and valuable part of designing a beautiful and functioning outdoor space.

The First Meeting

The first meeting might be free, or there could be a fee attached to the service. When you meet with the designer, you want to have some ideas to present to him or her. This first step is required to walk around the property and understand what you want to accomplish with the design. This meeting is also the time to discuss the budget for your project. You will be asked about how you want to use your outdoor spaces. By preparing for your initial meeting, you can make good use of this time. During this meeting, the designer will evaluate your property’s natural resources, the home’s design, and the surrounding neighborhood.

Add Your Ideas

If you have hired a landscape designer, you probably have some ideas about your property. You should think about the types of flowers or garden areas that can add to your home’s beauty. These elements can transform a dull sitting area into a relaxing atmosphere. Your designer will want to know your input on layout, amenities, and lighting features for the project. When you meet with the designer, you should always add your preferences to the design. Before the planning stage, you want to give the designer a sense of what you want to accomplish with your outdoor plans.

Creating a Landscape Design Concept

After you have met with the landscape designer, work will begin on a design concept. In this initial design concept stage, the overall layout will give you the preliminary placement of trees, shrubs, and flowers on your property. At this time, the initial design is essential to make sure that you and the designer are on the same page as you envision a beautiful landscape for your home. If you are not happy, you can request changes to the plans. For those who want to move forward, you will confirm the layout of the space. Small or straightforward projects might skip these steps.

Mastering the Landscape Design

You should think of the first landscape design as a starting off point for you and the designer. At this stage, it is not uncommon to request some changes. You do want to verify whether changes are included in the plans, or if there will be a fee for any revisions. Some landscape designers will charge for a modification. These plans will either be hand-drawn or created with a computer CAD program. The designer’s plans will allow you to see the potential changes to your property. At this stage, you still have time to add some amenities, such as a deck or patio. Your designer will probably start to ask more questions concerning the final sections of materials, including grass types, landscape edging, or paver varieties.

Copies of the Design

You might want to get a copy of the design, but you should not be offended when the designer does not print one for you. Many designers consider their plans to be a piece of intellectual property, and they will not give you a copy unless you pay for the design. This can help to prevent someone from taking their ideas and replicating them with another designer. The designer has spent time meeting with you, measuring the area, and creating the design. They want to ensure payment for their hard work.

Signing on the Project

Your landscaping project might take a few weeks to complete. You should know where all the details will be located on your property, including walkways, patios, trees, and flowers. At this stage, you will get a final invoice from the designer with all the associated costs. Once your down payment is received, your project will start the construction phase of the design.

Handling the Paperwork

If you have done any work on your home, you know that there is a lot of paperwork for a project. Your designer will process the permits with your town to help you save time and money. In most cases, your designer knows the permitting process and can provide all the proper documents to get started on the job.

Dealing With Construction

With a designer, you don’t have to deal with contractors or bidding on a job. In most cases, the designer handles those tasks. However, you are always welcomed to find your own crews to work on your project. For the most part, the designer has a trusted team of contractors that will complete the job to your specifications. During the construction phase, the designer will monitor the process and provide on-site support to the construction crews.

Final Inspection

When the job is completed, you will want a thorough inspection of the site. A good landscape designer will go over the project with a punch list of the site. With a completed list, you will know that the job was done correctly.

Design the Dream Landscape for You

Charlestown Landscape can help design an exceptional space for your outdoor spaces. Whether you have a business or residential home, we can create a peaceful outdoor space for you. Our team knows the latest landscape design trends to match your needs and budget. For those who want to schedule a consultation with us, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form.

What To Ask When Hiring A Commercial Landscaping Company

What To Ask When Hiring A Commercial Landscaping Company

/in , /by

As a business owner, you know the value of a great landscaping plan. You also see the importance of finding a professional and reliable commercial landscaping contractor who can help you with basic lawn care maintenance to designing new outdoor features. You will want to find a company that will meet your budget needs as they provide the best service for you. Before you hire a commercial landscaper for your business, here are some questions that you will want to ask.

How Long Have You Been in Business?

You want to choose a company that has the experience to handle your business. For many companies, they have been working for many years. That is a good indication that they have a positive track record. Many of these companies can provide you with reputable references and offer a portfolio of their work. All these factors are great indicators that the company will be reliable for the job.

What Services Do You Offer?

For many professional commercial landscaping contractor, they will offer a wide range of services. These landscapers will go beyond basic lawn care maintenance, including helping with irrigation, designing your outdoor space, and installing new products. Many businesses often prefer to work with one landscaping company instead of hiring out several different service providers. Not only is this more convenient, but it can also help you save money as the services are offered in a bundled package.

Do You Have a Schedule for Work?

A trustworthy landscape company should be able to provide you with a timeframe for your project, and they must keep an open line of communication on the job. Your selected company should give you clear and concise suggestions on how to manage your landscape. You will want to look for a company that can help with basic mowing, fertilization, pest and disease management, seasonal color changes, and irrigation.

Do You Have Insurance and Licensing?

For the most part, a professional commercial landscaping company will have insurance in the case of an accident. However, you want to make sure that the company handling your work is licensed to do business in your area. All companies should carry workers’ compensation insurance and general liability insurance. In addition to that, they need to employ bonded workers. The landscaping company is responsible for the well-being of their workers and any liability caused by their work. When a company has insurance, you will know that they are a reputable organization in the community. While you would like to take their word for it, you should ask for proof of insurance and their safety records. You want to hire a company that knows how to stay safe on the job.

Will You Meet the Goals of My Project Within a Budget?

All commercial landscaping companies should know your project goals and find the most cost-effective ways to reach them. Before you start a project, you need to alert the company of your budgetary restrictions. Once the company has your budget in mind, they can create a customized service plan for you in the form of a proposal. It is vital to review the offer to ensure nothing is left off or added as an extra surcharge. A reputable company will always outline their costs upfront and not hide charges from you. You want to find a company that will be able to follow through on the project as they work within the set budget for your company.

Do You Have Specialists on Staff?

If you want to have a well-designed landscape, you will need to turn to professional staff. Many commercial companies employ horticultural experts on their staff. These specialists understand landscape architecture, and they will work with you to bring the most beneficial and eye-catching elements to your outdoor space. With these experts, you will have the expertise for all your landscaping needs.

Do You Work With Subcontractors?

For some businesses, they are hired for a job and use subcontractors to handle the job. You want to make sure that your company has regularly employed staff, and they don’t hire day workers from a staffing company. A professional company should be able to provide you with a list of employees trained in safety and quality control measures. If they work with subcontractors, you need to know that a particular company is held to the same standard of work as your original hire.

Do You Have Any Professional Affiliations?

Many commercial landscaping companies will be associated with the local chamber of commerce or business association. In some states, there are even contractor affiliations for landscaping companies. If your landscaping company is not a part of an alliance, it does not mean they are not considered professional. Some businesses choose not to join a professional association or affiliated group.

Can You Provide References?

Any reliable company will be able to provide you with references for their work. Many customers will leave their names and phone numbers to give glowing reviews of the company. You can follow up with the customers, and some might even allow you to walk around their property. These factors are vital as they give you a feel for the company’s reliability, work quality, and professionalism in their industry.

Professional Commercial Landscaping Contractor in Pennsylvania

Since 2009, Charlestown Landscaping has been serving the Chester County area for both residential and commercial customers. We have a staff of trained workers who can help you create a dream landscape for your home or business. Our company offers a wide range of services, including landscape maintenance to lawn care management. We will work hard to make sure you are satisfied with our work. Our staff will be happy to answer these or other questions that you may have about the company. Charlestown Landscaping is your solution for landscaping needs in the area.

If you have any questions about Charlestown Landscaping and our services, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form. We are here to help with all your commercial and residential landscaping projects.

What are the basic principles of landscape design?

What are the basic principles of landscape design?

/in , , /by

In the world of landscape design, you might think that you can just go with the flow of the land. However, you will want to follow some rules to give your design a boost in your outdoor spaces. Landscape design is more than adding a few plants and flowers to your yard. You want a design that is functional and pleasing as well. Here are some of the basic principles of landscape design.

Rule of Significant Enclosure

With a significant enclosure, the vertical edge of the space must be at least one-third the length of horizontal space. At that size, you will feel a sense of enclosure, and it goes a long way to create a feeling of refuge as you embrace nature. If you want to design a more relaxed environment, you should know the right measurements for the job. You can see examples of this design work in a local park. If you sit near a tree or wall and move away, you can get a great sense of enclosure. With this type of design, you will have a sense of scale and give your space a feeling of openness.

Always Follow the Regulating Line

If you have any formal architectural education, then you probably know about the concept of the regulating line. With this rule, you can designate an architecture element or landscape feature to create an imaginary line to connect and organize your design. When you do this in your yard, you can give the space a more cohesive and orderly arrangement. The regulating line is valuable since it can provide order to your area and still give the design room to create a relaxing environment. For many designers, the regulating line is what can separate a professional from an amateurish design.

Get Proportions With the Golden Rectangle

One particular rule goes back to the days of the ancient Greeks and Egyptians. A golden rectangle features sides whose lengths are in the golden ratio, which is approximately 1.618. The golden ratio is the ratio of proportion that can create a sense of balance and order. You can use the golden ratio with the golden rectangle to give your outdoor space more harmony and unity. Many landscape designers use these measurements to layout patios, arbors, terraces, and lawns.

Always Consider the Size

With any landscape design, you need to think about the size of the space. You might want to add a small element in a particular spot, but you need to think about how it will look in a few years. In a garden, plants, bushes, and flowers tend to grow bigger. As a result of that, you almost always want to go big in your yard. These elements might seem fine for now, but they will probably look underwhelming in a couple of years. Landscape design is about creating space that will look great for many years to come.

Plant from Big to Small

You need to design your ornamental elements according to the area. When planting, make sure to start with the big elements, such as trees. These features can anchor your yard, and you can base your design principles on them. You can see the outdoor space in a compositional way and provide a better sense of overall structure. Once the trees are set, then you should fill in space with shrubs and flowers. It may be hard to resist the temptation to plant flowers first, but you need to observe the area with the bigger elements before adding in the finishing touches.

Plant in Masses

Many designers might want to plant in the cottage garden design that features a wide range of various plants. However, there is something to be said about seeing a large quality of one plant in a single space. For many people, this simple element can be pleasing to the eye. You can use something like ornamental grasses to give a boardwalk its sense of unity. Repetition can also help to give your space a more planned look. You should be careful not to overwhelm a yard. Too much of one variety can also come off as dull and uninspiring. You need to find a balance in your space.

Add a Pop of Color

If you want to give your outdoor space another dimension of design, you need to add color. With warm colors, the objects seem closer to you in the yard. If you use cool colors, then the opposite is true. You can use greens and blues also to add a level of perspective to the yard.

Gradual Change

Transition is vital for your landscape design. You never want a stark change between elements. By changing the plant sizes or color intensity, you can achieve this throughout your outdoor space. Transitions can take the form of many shapes, features, and textures.

Choose Contrast and Harmony

You will want to achieve a balance between contrast and harmony in your landscape design. The contrast will help to highlight elements, and harmony will give those elements a unified look. You can contrast certain features to draw attention to specific details. By using complementary colors side by side, you can achieve harmony and contrast.

Make Sure to Plant Well

No matter your design, you want to make sure that the elements are designed at the right height and size. There is no point in planting an expensive plant, shrubs, or flower in a poorly designed landscape. If you don’t follow some rules, then your design will look poorly planned out and uninspired.

Plan Your Landscape for Your Home or Business

At Charlestown Landscaping, we can help you achieve the landscape of your dreams. Our horticultural experts can find the right elements to add to your outdoor spaces. In addition to landscape design, we also offer lawn care services, snow removal, and sealcoat applications. We want to make your outdoor space enjoyable throughout the seasons.

For more information about creating your dream landscape, make sure to fill out the contact form.