Spring Lawn Care Tips

Spring Lawn Care Tips

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Springtime is the perfect time to take care of your lawn. If you neglect your yard during this time, you could deal with issues for the rest of the year. While spring lawn care is vital, it is not too difficult for you to handle. Here are some things that you will want to tackle in the springtime for a beautiful-looking yard that you can enjoy in the upcoming year.

Start Raking

Raking is not just for the fall season. You have to remember that leaves and thatch can build up throughout the winter. Raking can also help to remove those grass blades that died off in the cold weather. There is also something called “snow mold.” It can prevent your new grass from emerging from the ground. By raking the yard, you can eliminate matted grass patches and prepare the lawn for the upcoming growing season.

Look for Compaction Issues

For those lawns with high levels of traffic, you may notice that the grass is starting to wear down. In these cases, the lawn is suffering from compacted soil. Lawn aeration is a great way to stop soil compaction in your yard. You can rent a lawn aerator or hire a professional company, like Charlestown Landscaping, to help with these ground problems.

Think About Liming

While inspecting your lawn, you might notice some signs of acidity. If you have grass that needs a neutral pH, you should think about adding lime to your yard. The effects of liming can take a few months for you to see results. For that reason, you want to get an early start to the process.

Before you start liming, you need to determine the soil’s acidity. With this information, you will know how much lime you need per square inch of the lawn. If your lawn is not suffering from acidity, then you will not need to apply lime. Lime should only be used as a corrective measure and not a preventive one.

Overseeding Is Not a Bad Idea

For those lawns with dog potty spots or bare patches, you will need to apply grass seed to fill in these areas. One solution is known as “overseeding,” and it works best when you combine it with a slow-release fertilizer. Once the grass starts to germinate, you can add the fertilizer to the lawn. You will want to determine the grass species of your yard. Depending on whether it is a cool- or warm-season grass, springtime might not be the best time to overseed your lawn.

Get Out and Fertilize

Spring is the time to fertilize your lawn. For those who want to use organic materials, you can use compost or a mulching mower. If you’re going to add a chemical fertilizer to your yard, then there are plenty of options for you. Many lawn care experts recommend that you have a light feeding in the spring and a heavy one in the fall. If you add too much fertilizer in the spring, it can lead to weed problems and diseases.

Figure Out Your Weed Prevention Plan

Spring grass care is all about preventing weeds. Depending on the type of weeds, removal is handled in a variety of ways. It is more than pulling the plant out of your grass or flower bed. If the weed is annual or perennial, you may need a herbicide to fight them.

You may want to add pre-emergent herbicides to your annual weeds. These products will address the issues of weed control, and it will stop the seedlings before they have a chance to emerge in your yard. These herbicides will prohibit the seeds from germination. If you want to add herbicides to the lawn, you should never aerate your lawn. This process can puncture the layer of herbicide and allow the weeds to grow in your yard.

One old-fashioned way to remove weeds is by pulling them. These methods are effective for those perennial weeds, such as dandelions. Once you remove them from the grass, you should add a post-emergent herbicide to eliminate them from your yard. With these few steps, you can stop weeds before they become a significant issue for your lawn.

Tune-Up Your Lawn Mower

In addition to manual lawn care, you need to maintain the lawnmower. This piece of equipment is essential for any yard. You want to make sure your mower is in top shape so that you will not have any hassles in the summer. If your mower doesn’t start up or is difficult to push, you may need to tune it up for the upcoming season. By doing this now, you can ensure an easier process when you need to mow your lawn.

Purchase New Equipment

Your old lawn mower might need to be replaced. You can find great deals on equipment in the spring that will keep your lawn looking great throughout the year. In addition to a mower, you will want to check out your hoses, shovels, and other equipment to make sure they are ready for the late spring and summer season.

Review Your Lawn Care Strategies

Lawn care is not too difficult, but you want a plan for the upcoming season. During this time, you need to review the health of your grass, flower beds, and other spots in the yard. If there is a problem, you can quickly correct it in the spring before the summer season is in full swing. With the right measures in place, you can have a healthy and beautiful lawn throughout the year.

With these few tips, your lawn will stay lush and healthy. These simple acts will have long-reaching effects throughout the seasons. If you want to have an expert opinion for your lawn care, then you need to contact the team at Charlestown Landscaping. We can help you with all those lawn care maintenance needs without the hassles. Our professional team will create a customized lawn care plan for you.

If you want to schedule a consultation with our team, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form.

The Best Time To Water Grass

The Best Time To Water Grass

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Most homeowners want the lushest and greenest lawn on the block. If you want that for your home, you need to know about the best watering procedures for your grass. Grass needs the right amount of water at an optimal time of day. Here are some tips to keep your lawn well-watered throughout the year.

Don’t Waste Any Water

In many communities, there are certain times when you can water the grass. Droughts and other issues can lead to water restrictions in your neighborhood. You might be tempted to break out the hose and water away. However, you need to check with the rules in your town or city. While these limitations are in place, you can still water your lawn for a lush appearance as you don’t waste any water. This is why it is crucial to choose the right times and correct amounts of water for your grass.

Choose the Right Time to Water

The time of day makes the difference for your grass. You will want to water the lawn in the early morning hours. At sunrise, your grass is cool, and that can help with water absorption. If you wait to water during the middle of the day, you could rob your lawn of hydration. When watering at dawn, you will give the water a better chance of reaching the roots.

Water Usage Is Also Important

You may be tempted to set your irrigation system or sprinkler at the highest level, but you need to think again. If you drench the lawn, you can experience water run-off in the yard. All that excess water will rob your lawn of nutrients and water absorption. This process wastes water as well. If you want to avoid that, you need to make sure the water is not running off the grass and down the drain. Streams on the edge of your lawn are signs that you are watering your lawn too fast for the ground to absorb the water.

Watering Schedule for Your Lawn

You should count on watering your lawn with one inch of water per week. If you need to determine the amount of water for your lawn, there is a simple way to measure it. You can place a plastic container in your yard and set your timer. In most cases, it takes 30 minutes to reach a half-inch measurement. For most people, you need to water the lawn three times a week for 20 minutes to get an inch of water for your grass.

This process works best with well-established and healthy soil. Healthy soil offers the best drainage for your grass, and it provides the right water retention at the root zone of the grass. Poor soil often has inadequate drainage, and the ground will become waterlogged and devoid of organic matter. When that happens, the soil will become dry and cause the grass to brown.

Watering on a daily basis is too frequent. Once a week watering is often not enough for your lawn. You want to choose a schedule down the middle for the best results for your yard.

Watering Different Lawn Types

Different lawn varieties will need to be on a specific watering schedule. Many factors like your planting zones, season, and grass types play an essential part in your watering schedule. Once you know your particular lawn type, you can set a schedule to give it the right amount of water throughout the year.

Cool-season grasses, such as fescue, rye, and bluegrass, are active in the fall. They are dormant in the summer. With cooler fall temperatures, the water evaporation is low, but they still need water to maintain their appearance. You should water these grasses with an inch to an inch and a half of water per week. Cool-season grasses need to be watered until the first frost. Since these grasses are fertilized in the fall, it is also important to water after this process. The water washes off the excess fertilizer from the grass blades and back into the soil.

Warm-season grasses include Bermuda grass and zoysia. These varieties thrive in weather that is 80 degrees and above. When the daytime temperatures drop, the growing process will slow down. However, you still need to water them to keep the grass healthy. You want to water these grasses as long as they are growing and require mowing. With warm-season lawns, you never want to fertilize them in the fall. You should wait until spring when the growing season starts up again.

Always Check Your Grass

You want to keep an eye out for problems with your lawn. If you notice any of these issues, you can adjust your watering schedule. For bigger problems, you might want to consult a professional landscaping company, like Charlestown Landscaping.

Your lawn should never look discolored or curl over the top. When that happens, the grass is suffering from a lack of water. Grass blades that don’t bounce back from a footprint are also suffering from dryness. If you notice some dry spots in your lawn, you should think about watering earlier in the day. You might even want to water on a more frequent schedule.

Overwatering is another issue for your grass. If your lawn feels sponge-like and your feet sink into the ground, you might have too much water in the soil. Once again, you need to modify your watering routine. When you change up your watering, you never want to do it abruptly. Any sudden changes can shock your grass and create further damage.

Water is an essential part of maintaining your lawn. With too much or too little water, you can cause harm to your grass. It can take some dedication to get that gorgeous lawn. At Charlestown Landscaping, we can help you have the best-looking lawn in the neighborhood. You don’t have to worry about watering schedules or cutting the grass. We can handle it for you.

If you would like to learn about our lawn care services, make sure to fill out the contact form.

What is the best tree or shrub for privacy? | Charlestown Landscaping

What is the best tree or shrub for privacy?

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When you have an outdoor space, you want to enjoy it throughout the year. However, many yards lack privacy and can be exposed to the neighborhood. Fences are fine, but they can make your yard look stark and cold. For a more natural element, trees or shrubs can add some extra privacy to your yard as you enjoy your outdoor sanctuary.

The Different Types of Privacy Trees

Before you go and purchase trees or shrubs, you want to find the right one for your yard. Many homeowners choose evergreens for their privacy needs. As they mature, these trees will fill in and offer a consistent look for your yard. Evergreens are great because they can maintain color throughout the year.

Deciduous trees are another option for your yard, and they can come in many different varieties. In addition to that, they can make a colorful privacy screen for your yard. Unfortunately, these trees can lose leaves in the fall, and they don’t often year-round privacy.

Find the Right Tree or Shrub for Your Yard

Every property owner should consider their needs when deciding the right trees for their outdoor spaces. You need to know important aspects of the yard like slope and size. Homeowners should also know what to expect as the plantings mature in the future. Here are some things that you should know about selecting the right privacy trees and shrubs for your space.

Height and Width of the Privacy Screen

When you add trees and shrubs, you must know the full mature size of the plant. Trees and shrubs will continue to grow throughout the years. You want them to be large enough to block out the neighbors, but they shouldn’t be so tall to interfere with power lines or your home. You should also be mindful of the width of the tree or shrub. If you plant along the property line, you need to make sure that your plants will not encroach on the neighbor’s yard. Before you plant, it is vital to know the full width of a mature plant to determine the space needed between each tree.

Usable Space

If you have a small space, you will want to select tall and thin trees. For those with large yards, you can also add fuller hedgerows to your outdoor space. Before you add plants to a driveway, walkway, or patio, you should know how the roots will grow. In some cases, they can expand outward and push up your concrete or pavers.

Maintenance Levels

All trees, shrubs, and plants need maintenance to grow. Some hedgerows will need regular pruning to keep them at the right height. If you are looking for a low-maintenance tree, you should consider a medium-height evergreen tree. They don’t require much pruning and can still give you enough privacy in your yard.

Best Trees for Privacy

Now that you have the size, slope, and other measurements for your yard, it is time to select the right trees for your outdoor space. There are many choices on the market, and you can find one to meet the needs of your yard.

The Thuja green giant is the best tree for privacy, especially for those who need a tall tree. This evergreen can grow between three to five feet per year, and they stay a vibrant green throughout the year. Leyland cypress is another fast-growing evergreen. It will grow about three to five feet per year and reach a mature height of 50 feet. The Nellie Stevens holly is a hybrid of Chinese and Blue holly, and it can grow into a pyramidal shape that reaches 25 feet in height and 15 feet in width.

If you are looking for a classic tree, you cannot go wrong with the American holly. This tree is native to North America. It is planted as a natural privacy tree, and it can grow to 50 feet in height. These trees thrive in well-draining soils. For those with plenty of space, you will want to choose the Eastern white pine. This sturdy evergreen has feathery needles, a straight trunk, and an open canopy. These trees are fast-growing, and they can live for many years.

For those who want a cluster arrangement, you should select the Blue Point juniper. These evergreen trees can provide homeowners will year-round privacy as they grow into a pyramidal shape. Finally, the Blue Ice Arizona cypress is another excellent choice for your yard. These trees have a reddish-purple bark with blue-gray leaves flecked with white. The cypresses need full sun, and they thrive in hot and dry environments.

Add Some Privacy Shrubs

You can have some privacy in the yard without adding large trees. If you want to create a private outdoor space, shrubs are a great alternative. They are suitable for creating an instant hedgerow to give you enough privacy at the mid-height level.

Boxwoods are the most common shrubs to create a privacy screen. They can grow dense and be shaped into a variety of shapes. Boxwoods are also low-maintenance and stay a green color throughout the year. Privets are unusual as they are semi-evergreen and semi-deciduous. You will need to maintain them to keep them in shape. In the spring, they produce a white flower that can add a visual appeal to your yard.

For an easy-to-grow shrub, you will want to plant some Schip cherry laurels in your yard. These evergreens can grow in full sun or complete shade. The medium leaves have a refined look, and they can create a layered effect. In the spring, you can see stalks of fragrant white flowers. These laurels are some of the hardiest trees, and they respond well to pruning. Finally, Hicks yew is another excellent choice for mid-sized privacy screens and hedges. The branches are covered with dark evergreen foliage that creates a narrow hedge for your yard.

Trees and shrubs are a great way to add privacy to your outdoor spaces. They add an aesthetic appeal that will make you want to enjoy your yard throughout the year. If you need help on choosing the right trees and shrubs for your yard, make sure to consult the help of a professional landscaping company.

For more information on privacy shrubs and trees, make sure to fill out the contact form.

How long does mulch last? | Which type of mulch lasts the longest?

How long does mulch last?

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Mulch can protect your plants, reduce your water consumption, and add that finishing touch to your garden beds. However, many of them are made from organic materials, and they can decompose over time. Whether you use natural or inorganic materials, you will need to perform maintenance to keep it looking great throughout the years.

Average Lifespan

Depending on the type of material and your watering schedule, your mulch’s lifespan can vary. Wood chips and bark are the most common types of mulch. They are more prone to decomposing than thicker materials. Wood chips can last about five to seven years. On the other hand, bark can last for seven to ten years. Since bark consists of the hardest part of the tree, it is more durable than the scrap lumber material used for wood chips.

In most cases, all organic mulch has a lifespan between five to six years. However, there are some cases where you will need to replace them every one to two years. With any type of organic, it can decompose and will need to be replaced.

There are two ways to determine the lifespan. The practical life of mulch can be between four to seven years. This time is how long it takes for a layer to break down. When it completely degrades, it will no longer provide ground cover or create heat to protect your plants.

The aesthetic lifetime is significantly shorter. It does last between one to two years. When it is exposed to the elements, it will begin the decomposition process and start to change its appearance. After one to two years, it will start to lose color. You may notice bare spots in your yard. At this time, you should replace the old mulch.

If you are thinking about adding mulch to your yard, you will need about two to three inches of the material. In areas with severe rainstorms or wind, you should add more to ensure the proper coverage for your outdoor space. Frequent rains can cause the mulch to decompose quicker than in a drier environment.

Consider Undyed

If you are concerned about the aesthetics of your mulch, you might want to choose an undyed variety. Dyed mulches can start to turn gray after a year of application. It is still helping to keep weeds at bay, but it might not look attractive in your yard. For many people, they will replace the faded mulch to improve the look of the garden beds.

For those who don’t want to replace mulch every year, you should not choose dyed materials. If you do use dyed mulch, you also want to know how the mulch was colored to avoid any negative impacts on your outdoor space. In some cases, cheap dyes can penetrate your soil and create an unhealthy environment for your plants.

Size Is Important

Your mulch size also impacts the lifespan of the material. Wood chips do not last as long as bark mulch. Shredded mulch can blow away in the wind or wash away with heavy rains. You will also need to replace shredded material more often than chips or nuggets.

Replace

You should always keep track of the initial installation date of your mulch. In addition to that, look out for the early signs of decomposition, including soggy mulch. Wet can be a sign of improper drainage as it starts to rot in your garden beds. You also want to watch out for any mulch that may have blown away in the wind. If you notice these spots in your yard, then you should fill in those bare areas. For the best results, you should have a one to three-inch layer of mulch.

The Issues With Old

After a few years, the mulch will decompose and not provide any benefits for your yard. When you use organic mulch, it contains nutrients and retains moisture for your soil. When the depth of the mulch decomposes, you will start to see more problems with weeds and soil erosion.

For many people, mulch is used strictly for aesthetic reasons. Throughout the seasons, the mulch will lose its color and fade. While it can take several months or years, mulch will inevitably need to be replaced.

Inorganic Could Be a Solution

If you are looking for mulch that does not need much maintenance, you should consider inorganic materials. Glass, rubber, and stone can give you the same aesthetic appeal as organic mulches. Your flower beds and gardens will also be protected from weeds and soil erosion. However, your soil will not reap any nutritional benefits from these inorganic mulches. Some inorganic mulches can also cost more than natural products. All those reasons should be taken into consideration before adding mulch to your yard.Maintenance

If you want to find a low maintenance mulch, then you should choose a large bark mulch for your yard. Some of the best choices are cedar and cypress bark, but these materials will decompose slower than other options.

With the right natural mulch, you will need minimal maintenance. You should always keep the layer depth in the one to three-inch range. In addition to that, the trees and plants will need some space around them to provide adequate air circulation and keep away insects.

Many factors can determine when you need to replace the mulch. When you start to see signs of decomposition, your mulch should be replaced or replenished as soon as possible. In about five to six years, you should consider a full mulch replacement of your yard. If you need help to find the best mulch for your yard, Charlestown Landscaping is ready to assist you. We can help you choose the right variety and help to install mulch throughout your yard.

If you need to know more about our mulching services, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form.

What Is Mulch

What Is Mulch?

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If you spend time searching for gardening tips, you will probably notice a lot of recommendations for mulch. There are many reasons to add mulch to your flower beds and yard. Before you buy a few bags for your home, you need to know a few things about this essential element of outdoor gardening.

What Is Mulch?

Mulch is a board term. It usually covers any material that is spread over the surface of the soil as a covering. Mulch can include materials like grass clippings, compost, leaves, peat moss, and wood chips. In some cases, people will use other non-compostable materials, such as gravel, glass, and rubber. Mulch is used to help keep in the moisture in the soil, cool down the ground, suppress weeds, and add an attractive appearance to your flower beds. In addition to that, organic mulches can improve the soil’s fertility.

Organic Mulches

Organic mulch is one type of mulch. It will decompose and need to be replaced. However, it is the best choice for those who want to improve the organic content and fertility of the soil. Compost, straw, and manure is a good choice, but you should know its origins. You don’t want to use mulch that can contain weed seeds and start to sprout in your yard.

Bark is a popular choice for many homeowners. It is best used around shrubs, trees, and garden beds. Bark lasts longer than other organic mulches, but it doesn’t provide many nutrients to the soil. Compost can be used all around your property. Many people add a layer of compost to flower beds to give the soil a nutrient boost during the growing season. You can make compost at home by combining grass clippings, food scraps, and other organic materials in a bin.

For those with vegetable gardens, you might want to use salt hay or straw for your mulch. It can keep the soil from splashing on plant leaves and creating muddy pathways. During the growing season, the straw also decomposes very slowly, and it will usually last throughout the summer months. Spiders love straw, and they will often take up residence to control the insect population. Straw is also easy to maintain. All you need to do is rake up the excess at the end of the season.

If you are looking for another way to mulch, you should think about adding shredded leaves throughout your yard. These leaves can be used anywhere, and they are pretty much cost-free. In addition to that, you can help to entice earthworms to your soil. Shredded mulch might not be aesthetically appealing for a formal setting though. For a woodland garden, it can be a great alternative to those mulches that you buy in a bag.

You wouldn’t usually think about it, but newspaper is another type of mulch gaining in popularity. Many papers have switched to organic dyes. These mulches also help to retain moisture in the soil and suppress weeds in your gardens. If you are looking to start a new flower bed, the newspaper will help keep those plant roots moist as they take to the soil.

Inorganic Mulches

If you are looking for mulch that can block weeds and hold moisture, then you might want to choose a synthetic or inorganic product. These mulches do not decompose, and you won’t need to replace them as much as an organic product. There are many types of inorganic materials that you can use throughout your yard.

For foundation plantings, you will want to use landscape and plastic fabric. With these materials, you don’t have to worry about weeding your garden beds throughout the summer. However, plastic can get very hot. In some circumstances, it can kill plant roots without the proper moisture. You should cut a hole in the fabric to allow for the water to pass through it.

Stone and gravel are popular choices for inorganic mulches. These mulches are excellent for areas that need good drainage. For those with rain or herb gardens, you might need extra heat for the plants. In those cases, these materials are a perfect choice for you. Before you place stone or gravel in your yard, remember that these materials can be hard to remove. You should decide on the right location to avoid moving it in the future.

Uses of Mulch

Many people use mulch to spruce up the look of their yard and flower beds. Mulch can help to limit weed growth and cover up those bare areas in your yard. It can even help the environment by encouraging worms to reside in the soil. If you are looking to keep up a cleaner appearance, you might want to use a mulch to reduce mud around your plants and walkways. Mulch will also help with protecting your plants’ root system and reduce excess dust.

You can place mulch pretty much anywhere in your yard. Many people spread mulch throughout the garden and near the base of plants and trees. You can even use mulch as a general ground cover or as a top dressing for your container plants. For many people, you want to add mulch to any place where you need to retain moisture, limit weed growth, and cover the soil. When adding mulch, make sure to keep the mulch a few inches away from the truck or plant base. You want to stop any root rot and give your plants some breathing room.

The Best Time to Add Mulch

Depending on your climate, you need to check when to add mulch to your yard. In some warmer climates, mulch can be added throughout the year. For most people, mulching can be done in the spring and fall. A fall mulch can help your plants to regulate soil temperature and protect roots as the temperature starts to drop.

There are so many benefits of adding mulch to your yard. For healthier flower beds and gardens, you will want to add this critical element to your gardening routine. Charlestown Landscaping can help you find the best mulches to keep your outdoor spaces looking great. For more information feel free to give us a call or fill out our contact form.

How to Control Soil Erosion Around Your Property

How to Control Soil Erosion Around Your Property

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Soil erosion is a concern for many homeowners. When erosion occurs, it can be difficult to grow any vegetation in your yard, and even your home’s foundation is at risk. Healthy and vibrant landscapes can turn into lifeless terrain with soil erosion. You may not think you are at risk, but soil erosion can occur at any site where the ground has been disturbed. However, there are ways to combat soil erosion on your property.

Erosion Is a Natural Process

While it may seem destructive, soil erosion is a natural part of the environment. It helps to sweep away rock and soil material. A few elements can contribute to erosion, including wind, water, and ice. There are two classifications of erosion: man-made and geological. Man-made erosion occurs when humans alter the landscape and accelerate the natural process. You will find man-made erosion at many construction sites. Geological erosion happens when the soil is distributed in a natural manner, such as soil removal or formation.

Making Erosion Worse Around Your Property

Many factors can lead to soil erosion, including climate, soil characteristics, rainfall intensity, and vegetation. Topography and environment are the primary elements that contribute to soil erosion. When you know what causes soil erosion in your area, you can develop a plan to control it on your property. For many people, their landscaping habits can cause these issues. Paved surfaces, changing drainage patterns, and disturbing the soil can all lead to problems with erosion.

Why Should You Be Concerned About Soil Erosion?

Soil erosion is very destructive. It can carry away the topsoil into the local waterways. While it might not seem like a big issue, fertilizers and pesticides are also washed away into the water supply with the soil. In turn, this erosion can affect the local ecosystem and wildlife. Along with that, soil erosion can leave your lawn without vital nutrients and create bare spots throughout your yard.

Your foundation is at risk of soil erosion. When the soil washes away from the foundation, it can expose the foundation to the elements. Your foundation will be prone to cracks and other damages. Any damage to this area can leave the surface weakened and cause issues throughout your home’s entire structure.

Soil Erosion in Your Yard

Soil erosion does not suddenly appear on your property. There are clues and signs before erosion becomes a significant problem. Anyone can spot the first signs of erosion. You want to pay attention to your property after a rainstorm. If you notice that the tree roots are exposed, or the soil levels have changed, then you may have some soil erosion. Any areas with ravine-like patterns in the ground are good indicators that water is slowing eroding the soil in your area. Finally, dirt should not end up on your driveways, walkways, walls, or windows. If you do notice that, it might be time to look for solutions to your soil erosion issue.

What to Do About Soil Erosion?

If you are noticing any issues with soil erosion, you need to come up with a plan. One remedy for soil erosion is stabilizing the soil as you return it to its natural state. The method will vary depending on your land and the location of the erosion. You will need to walk around your yard and find the problem areas for you to repair.

For yards with slopes, you might want to think about stabilizing them. You can add native plants and ground cover to produce an extensive root system. These roots will create a terrace system that prevents erosion and holds the soil in place. You can also think about changing the grade of the slope by adding retaining walls or a series of steps.

Bare soil is another way to tell that you have issues with soil erosion. You can combat this problem by adding plant material, mulch, or straw to protect the area. Bare soil is exceptionally vulnerable to erosion, and you will want to keep it covered to prevent any additional erosion problems.

Concrete paved walkways might look stylish, but they can also contribute to your soil erosion issues. Water does not drain well over paved surfaces. Concrete is not porous, but there are other choices for you to use on your property. Crushed stone, bricks, and flagstone allow water to flow, and they are a better option for yards with erosion problems.

You should always check those downspouts and gutters to prevent damage to your foundation. They should be placed at least 5 to 10 feet from the base of the building. You also want to check on the type of soil in your yard as some expand faster than others. Those soils can cause additional damage to your foundation.

Splashing water against the surface of your home is not ideal. It can create a mess and cause other issues. You will want to add stones to the base of the downspout. These stones will disrupt the flow of the water and disperse its impact on the surrounding soil.

Finally, if you are noticing excess water around your property, you need to find a solution to these harmful rain puddles. For excess water from the rooftop, you should consider some type of rain collection barrel, rain garden, or French drain. The popular choice is a French drain as it can be concealed by mulch or turf. Runoff water can also be directed into a rain garden, or you can collect the water in a rain barrel to use for irrigation in your yard.

Soil erosion is detrimental to your yard and home. You want to find solutions that will stop the erosion and slow the water flow in your area. There are many solutions available to help deal with the problem of soil erosion. If you need expert advice with erosion issues, Charlestown Landscaping is ready to help. We can come up with a few ways to protect your space from the harmful effects of soil erosion.

If you would like to schedule a consultation, make sure to fill out the contact form.

What is the best type of mulch for landscaping?

What is the best type of mulch for landscaping?

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With so many mulch choices on the market, it can be challenging to find the right one for your yard. You want to choose one that is aesthetically pleasing and functional. Mulch is just not about making your flower beds look beautiful. You want to choose a product that will protect your plants and soil. Let’s look at the drawbacks and benefits of the various mulches for your landscape.

Mulch for Your Yard

Mulch is used to cover the surface of your soil, and it can include organic or inorganic materials. These products are used to cool down the ground, eliminate weeds, keep moisture in the soil, and add some aesthetic appeal to your flower beds and gardens. With the right mulch, you can even improve the fertility of your soil. With so many choices, you might have difficulty finding the right products. Before you add mulch, you need to know if you want organic or inorganic materials for your yard.

Organic Mulches

Pine bark nuggets are a common choice for mulch. This mulch can come in a variety of sizes, including everything from mini to jumbo nuggets. These nuggets are the by-product of the paper and lumber industries. Pine park can last for a very long time, and it can take a few months for it to break down to enrich the soil. If you live in an area with a lot of rainwater, you might want to think again about pine bark. Heavy rains can cause the nuggets to float or wash away. These nuggets will need plenty of maintenance to get raked back into the beds. While pine bark nuggets do have some benefits, they might not be suitable for areas with heavy flowing water during a rainstorm.

Another mulch similar to pine bark is shredded hardwood. However, these mulches are less likely to get washed away like pine bark. You can quickly spread this mulch throughout your yard, and it is very long-lasting. When these mulches break down, the soil around the plants will become more alkaline. If that will be a problem for your plants, you might need to add sulfur or acid fertilizer to the soil. Unfortunately, hardwood mulch has a tendency to compact and can block those crucial nutrients from reaching the ground.

Pine needles are a natural-looking mulch for your yard. This mulch is lightweight, and it is an excellent choice for plants that need acidic soils. These mulches are harvested from the floor of pine forests. Many people consider them to be a renewable product. However, pine needles do break down slower than other organic materials. As the needles age, they will turn a silver-gray color, and some people might not want that look for their yards. When you purchase a bale of pine needles, the sizes can vary and may contain leaves and sticks in the bundle.

Colored wood mulch is another product made from recycled wood, but it can contain some questionable additives, such as arsenic. While the EPA outlawed arsenic, some old pallets may still contain these additives that can enter your flower beds. For those wanting to add colored mulch to your yard, you should choose a product with raw lumber rather than recycled wood materials. You might be worried about the dyes in the mulch, but they are considered safe and will not harm your flowers. If you do use wood mulch, you will want to keep it away from your home. Termites love to inhabit wood mulches, and you do not want to give them a clear path to your building.

Manure and compost are some of the most popular options for mulch. These materials can improve soil structure, and they can hold nutrients and water. If you are looking for a product that inhibits weed growth, then you might need to choose another mulch. Weeds can still flourish with manure and compost. For those using their own compost, you want to make sure there are no herbicides in your mulching bin.

Inorganic Mulches

Shredded rubber is an excellent choice for mulching, but it can be cost-prohibitive for many people. This rubber does not breakdown like other materials. In addition to that, the color will remain for several years, and it tends to stay in place. Rubber is only used for aesthetic purposes, and it does not add any benefits to the soil. Many people will use rubber in playground areas to absorb impacts from falls.

Landscape fabric is often used in addition to other mulches. The layers are perfect for stopping weeds, but it can prevent nutrients from reaching the soil. If you allow dirt to accumulate on top of the layers, weeds can develop on the surface.

Gravel, rocks, and stones are another great inorganic mulch for your yard. For the most part, they don’t break down and will stay in place. However, small gravel and rock can sink into the soil, and it will require you to add more mulch. With large rock mulches, it can be challenging to remove the materials or even add plants to your yard. Stone mulches are known to be less effective in reducing water loss as it can increase soil evaporation.

While many materials can be used for mulch, there are some that you should not apply in your yard. Wood shavings, sawdust, and unaged wood chips are some of those products. When they break down, these materials can consume a large amount of nitrogen. In turn, your plants will be deprived of these critical nutrients. You want to choose a commercial wood product that has been aged and deemed safe to add to your yard.

Mulching is essential for your yard, and you want to choose the right product for your soil. Charlestown Landscaping can help with all your mulching needs. We will find the best products and apply them to your flower beds and gardens. You can get expert help from us for your next landscaping project.

If you want to schedule a consultation with Charlestown Landscaping, make sure to take a few minutes and fill out the contact form.

Common Lawn Weeds And How To Get Rid Of Them

Common Lawn Weeds And How To Get Rid Of Them

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You want your home’s lawn to look lush and green. However, weeds can easily take up space in your yard. Once you have spotted one, there are bound to be more in the area. Weeds love to multiply until they have created an enormous problem. Lucky for you, there are ways to rid those weeds and boost the health of your lawn.

Rid Yourself of Common Lawn Weeds

Getting rid of weeds might seem like a difficult task, but there are a few things that you can do to keep your yard looking healthy and weed-free. You must consider the fact that weeds are like a plant. By giving them a favorable environment to grow, they can become rampant throughout your yard.

You want to make the environment difficult for them to thrive. Compacted soil, water-deprived turf, and low-trimmed lawns are heaven for those pesky weeds. By practicing healthy lawn management, you can say goodbye to weeds.

Common Types of Weeds

Any lawn can come under attack from weeds, including well-tended ones. The wind can carry their seeds and land them into your yard. When you start to see weeds, you need to act quickly. Before you start pulling weeds or spraying chemicals, you should know about the different types of weeds. Unfortunately, there isn’t just one type of weed, and you need to know how to combat a weed invasion.

Dandelions

Dandelions might look pretty and colorful, but they are one of the most frustrating weeds to remove. Their yellow flowers will eventually mature to white puffballs. While children love to blow on the flowering weed, a single plant can release over 15,000 seeds. These weeds also are adaptable to any environment, and they will grow in shade or sun. If you already have dandelions in your yard, you need to pull them out by hand. By growing a dense lawn of grass, you can prevent these weeds from coming back. A thick lawn doesn’t give the dandelions room to grow, and it is one of the best defenses to avoid seeing these yellow weeds in the yard.

Bindweed

With its white petals, bindweed is another pretty-looking plant. However, it can quickly take over your yard and flowerbeds. This weed will snake its way throughout your yard. In the process, it chokes off nutrients from reaching your flowers and plants. If you see small flowers on a green mat, you might have an infestation. These nuisance plants love the moist ground. You will want to make sure the soil is not overwatered. If you’re going to get rid of them permanently, make sure to pull the new plants as soon as they appear in your yard.

Thistle

Thistle not only hurts your lawn, but it can be painful for you to remove. Its spiky leaves are sharp, and you should be careful when pulling out the plant. These weeds can pop up in the bare patches throughout your yard. Your best bet is to pull them out with a weed puller. You can also apply a broadleaf herbicide. Thistle is an annual species, and it can be a viable plant for many years. With its extensive root system, you will want to keep checking your yard to make sure all the plants have been removed.

Crabgrass

Crabgrass is another weed that can show up in your lawn. It is also a productive grower, and a single plant contains around 150,000 seeds. If you want to get rid of this weed, you will need to take special care of your lawn. With too much fertilizer, it is creating a ripe environment for crabgrass to grow. You always want to follow the correct application rates on the bag. Watering issues can also cause crabgrass to flourish in your yard. You need to water your lawn deeply and infrequently. If you are one of those homeowners that let the sprinklers run every day, you may have to stop. That surface moisture is enough to create a nurturing environment for crabgrass. You should really give the lawn a good soak once a week. By doing that, you can prevent crabgrass from taking root.

Nutsedge

Nutsedge is also known as nutgrass. It can be hard to identify because it looks like grass. However, the leaves are stiffer and thicker than most grass varieties. You can also tell the difference because this weed produces purple or yellow flowers. If you are looking to eliminate nutsedge, you must remove the nutlets from the ground. These tubular roots grow underground and must be removed entirely.

Weed Management

Even if you don’t spot weeds in your yard, it is never a bad time to be proactive with your lawn. You can get a head start with your lawn care before the weeds have a chance to take root and grow. With a few simple steps, you can keep those weeds out of your lawn.

Mowing is essential, and you need to cut the grass in the right way. You should mow regularly and at the correct height. Weeds are competing with your lawn for water and nutrients. By mowing on a regular schedule, you can keep those weeds at bay. You also need the proper amount of water and fertilizer. Many common weeds spread due to the poor health of the lawn. A thirsty lawn can be a breeding ground for unwelcome plants.

If you see a few weeds, you shouldn’t reach for the herbicide. You might be able to get away with pulling them out of your yard. In some cases, it is just a rogue plant that made its way into your yard. For those using herbicide, you never want to soak the yard with these chemicals. You should always consult the instructions to make sure that you use the correct amounts for your lawn.

Weed control can be a difficult job. You don’t have to control them on your own. Charlestown Landscaping can help you get rid of those weeds in your yard and restore the healthy appearance of your grass.

If you want to know more about our lawn care service, make sure to fill out the contact form.

The Benefits of Commercial Landscaping | Charlestown Landscaping

The Benefits of Commercial Landscaping

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Every business owner wants to strengthen their company’s image. With a well-maintained landscape, you can achieve that message. The benefits of commercial landscaping are one way to help your company to retain existing clients and attract new ones. In addition to that, a professional landscape can help you to create a relaxing and beautiful working environment for your employees.

The beauty of nature has some fantastic benefits. Some studies have suggested that a walk can improve your short-term memory. Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues can be eased with some time in the great outdoors. A green environment can help to boost mood and self-esteem. In a few studies, green spaces can increase concentration to help workers focus on solving problems. In other words, more green space for your business means that your customers, employees, or residents will feel better. With all these benefits, you need to add commercial landscaping services to your budget. You want to choose a skilled and experienced business that will know how to improve the aesthetics of your building and understand the importance of commercial landscaping. Let’s look at some other advantages of commercial landscaping.

Build Up Morale and Productivity

In today’s world, many people are spending time indoors. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that the average American spends 87 percent of their lives within a building. A drab environment can cause your employees to be less productive on the job. Many studies have shown that production rates can increase with a space designed around natural elements. A well-maintained patio and yard can improve your workers’ mental health. These beautiful outdoor spaces help you to raise the morale of your staff. When the outdoor environment is well-kept, your employees can focus on their work and finish their projects on time.

However, it is not just employees who can see the benefit of a professionally landscaped space. Existing and potential clients will want to visit your business, and it will make them reaffirm their decision to do business with you. If you operate a residential business, a well-maintained space will give your tenants a more welcoming feel for their home and guests.

Stay Eco-Friendly

Eco-friendly is becoming a popular buzzword for businesses. Customers want to patronize companies that are going “green” and are concerned about the environment. When you have a well-maintained landscape, it is a sign to your clients that you do care about the environment. One way to achieve a magnificent landscape is by hiring a professional company. A landscaping business will help you to improve the environment around your business with eco-friendly and natural elements. A well-planned layout and design can help you to stop erosion, save water, and reduce carbon footprints from your company. With these features, you can beautify your space as you stay environmentally friendly in your neighborhood. It shows that you care about your clients, employees, and nature.

Add More Space

The days of meeting in a closed office are slowly fading away. For modern businesses, they are finding new places to meet and greet clients. You can find your own outdoor space for employees to work or conduct a meeting. Patios, seating areas, and benches are perfect spots for new customer meetings or to work on a project. It helps your employees to get a “mental break” from the office and spend some time outdoors. A professional landscaping company will help you to create a plan that will maximize your space and help build morale within your business.

Improve Security and Add Property Value

Commercial landscaping has many benefits, including increasing your employees’ and clients’ security. When you look at a maintained yard, you think it is safe with well-placed lighting and plants. In turn, your employees will be more productive in a secure environment. You can even see more clients patronize your business if they feel that the area is safe and comfortable.

Along with improving security, commercial landscaping can add value to your property’s worth. For those with an unkempt yard, their building can even bring down the values throughout the neighborhood. A well-groomed landscape will help raise those values and make your community more welcoming for all visitors.

Attract More Clients

An attractive landscape design will set the tone for your company’s image. For many people, they are more likely to engage with a business that has a well-maintained landscape. It shows that you care about your services or products. As people walk by your business, a beautiful landscape is more approachable than one with sparse grass or neglected green areas.

That beautiful landscape layout will give your employees and customers a more enjoyable experience. With green grass and well-maintained sidewalks, you can attract more clients with these attractive aesthetic features. If you don’t know how to improve the look of your business, you will want to consult with a professional landscaping company. They will come up with a design that will enhance the look of your business and increase the curb appeal for your building.

Save Money and Time

When you hire a commercial landscaping business, you can be assured that your property is maintained on a monthly basis. You want to spend more time running your business and focusing on your customers. For those trying the DIY approach, you will end up creating more headaches and losing money for your company. A commercial landscaping company can help you to achieve a dream design for your outdoor spaces.

A well-manicured lawn and yard are great for everyone, from clients to employees. It can help boost productivity and increase your clientele. In addition to that, a green space shows that you care about your business. Charlestown Landscaping is here to help with your outdoor needs. We can maximize your commercial spaces to create a beautiful environment for your business. You don’t want to have a property that looks neglected and drives away potential sales. We can create a space that appeals to your clients and employees.

If you are ready to improve the look of your property, make sure to fill out the form to schedule a consultation with Charlestown Landscaping.