What Kind of Grass Do I Have? Learning About Grass Types in PA

/in , /by

Take a look at your grass! Did you know that there are several types of grasses in Pennsylvania? Many people are surprised to know there are different grass varieties, including those that can be grown in cool or warm weather. Grass in the state can vary. Once you know what type of grass is in your yard, you can provide better care for it. Here is a brief overview of the most common types of grass in Pennsylvania.

What Type of Grass Do I Have?

If you want to care for your lawn properly, you need to know about the type of grass growing throughout your property. In Pennsylvania, there are about four common types of grasses. You might have one species or a combination of them in your yard.

Kentucky Bluegrass

Residential lawns usually consist of Kentucky bluegrass. This attractive species features a medium to dark green color, and it is known for its fine texture. Many people choose this species because it is durable, dense, and lush. It can perform well in a variety of soils, and this grass loves those sunny spots.

Perennial Ryegrass

This particular grass is known for its fast germination rate, and it has a dark green color. Plus, you cannot beat its fine to medium texture. Over time, the perennial ryegrass will spread slowly throughout your yard. You might see clumps of this grass growing in your yard. Perennial ryegrass is prized for its hardiness and disease resistance. However, perennial ryegrass has high maintenance needs in the form of frequent waterings and heavy fertilizers.

Fine Fescue

While fine fescue might seem like a single variety, it is actually composed of several species, including the Creeping red fescue. This grass variety is also maintenance-free, and it will produce a stunning medium to dark green color for your lawn. This is another fine-textured grass for your yard. It is the perfect choice for those lawns that don’t receive a ton of sunshine.

Turf Type Tall Fescue

Finally, turf type tall fescues are the most drought tolerant of all the grasses in Pennsylvania. This species develops into a deep rich green color. This fescue can adapt to plenty of soil conditions throughout the state, and you will see it in most lawns across the Northeast.

Problem Grasses

Along with those common grass species, you might notice a few intruders in your yard. Grassy weeds have the appearance of grass, but they can invade and compete with your cool-season grasses for nutrients. If these grasses are in your yard, you need to remove them immediately. Once they have become established, it can be challenging to get them out of your yard.

Crabgrass is one type of problematic grass. It grows in clumps, and you will typically find it in spots with thinned-out grass. This species of weed is very aggressive, and it can spread throughout your yard. You might be able to control it with a pre-emergent. However, in some cases, you could need professional help to rid your yard of this weed.

Nutsedge is another perennial weed. If you have any moist areas of your yard, you might notice it rapidly spreading in the warm weather. Any grasses that stick out above the turf could be nutsedge. Since it grows with underground tubes, it can be difficult to remove without special tools and chemicals.

Rough bluegrass has a lighter color than its Kentucky bluegrass cousin, but this grass is considered a weed. You will usually see it in the early spring, where it rapidly spreads throughout your yard. By the summertime, the heat will kill it off. With that, there is no need to remove it by yourself.

Another tall fescue is known as Kentucky 31. This species is a perennial grass, but due to the fact it grows in clumps, it is very poor lawn grass. The Kentucky 31 features wide blades and coarse texture. You can see this grass growing throughout the year.

Finally, the orchardgrass is another pesky grassy weed that you might encounter in your yard. If you see light green or blue spots in your grass, it could be a sign of this weed. In the spring, the orchardgrass will flourish.

In many cases, these grassy weeds will die off by themselves. However, there are a few things that you can do to keep away these undesirable species. Overseeding and aeration are great ways to boost the health of your lawn. When your lawn is healthy, there is no room for those grassy weeds to develop. Results will not be seen overnight. It may take a season or two to see improvements in a very unhealthy lawn. When the lawn is strengthened and thickened, it can reduce the chances of those unwanted grassy species taking root in your yard.

Choosing the Best Grass Types for PA

If you are looking for the best grass species that will thrive in Pennsylvania, the turf type tall fescue is one of the best options. These grasses will keep weeds at bay while providing some spectacular color for your lawn. For those who need help choosing a suitable variety for your yard, a commercial lawn care service has options for you. They consider many things, including budget, maintenance needs, and soil quality. With all that information, these professionals can find the ideal grass species for your space.

Now that you know the most popular types of grasses in Pennsylvania, you want to find the best ways to care for and treat them. Specific grass species have particular needs. When you understand that, you will have a healthy and lush lawn for your property.

Commercial Lawn Care Services

If you need help with your commercial property, make sure to contact Charlestown Landscaping LLC. We have experience with all the varieties of grasses in the Pennsylvania area. With the proper care and maintenance, you will never have to worry about diseases and pests. Let us handle all of your landscaping and lawn care needs. You can schedule a consultation by calling (610) 608-3965.

Tips To Get the Most Out Of Your Industrial Building and Warehouse Landscaping Efforts

/in , /by

Most industrial buildings are usually not known for their architecture and beauty. Commercial businesses use these buildings to manufacture and move out their products. However, a warehouse or industrial building does not have to look ugly. You can add a few touches to build your brand and promote a well-crafted image for your business.

Yes, the outside of your commercial spaces will say a lot about your company. You want to find the right landscaping elements to boost the appearance of all your outdoor spaces. Here are a few tips to get the most out of your industrial landscaping efforts.

Boost the Entrance’s Appeal

You might think that an entrance just needs a front door. However, your entrance is the first place to make a great impression on your clients. Most customers will not walk up to the direct warehouse, but they will come to the front entrance to pick up products, pay a bill, or conduct some other type of business. It is important to make them feel welcomed.

An entrance with some big and bright pops of colors will attract visitors to your building. Plus, customers and employees love to see colorful flowers and plants breaking up a gray or white building. You might want to think about rotating plants and flowers on a seasonal basis for an added boost of color. Don’t forget about those pedestrian entrances. With their deep green color, boxwoods are the perfect backdrop for colorful flowers.

Highlight Your Company’s Signage

With a great sign, you can direct your customers to the entrance and potentially attract traffic from the street. You might want to use trees, perennials, and shrubs to create layers around the sign. However, it is crucial not to overwhelm the space. Since the sign promotes your business, you need a way to highlight it. Shrubs on each side of the sign can make it look bigger for a better impact. Landscaping around the sign will make it harder to miss.

Think About Trees

Trees are outstanding landscaping elements. They provide a dimension, color, and texture to your outdoor space. Since industrial buildings, distribution centers, and warehouses are horizontal, trees can add a vertical element to your areas. You need to think about the type of trees to add to your landscape. Evergreens provide some gorgeous green throughout the year. In the winter, think about planting a few dogwoods with red branches for seasonal color.

If you have trees around your property, you need to keep them properly maintained. While you can change your landscape, it does not help if your property looks cluttered or dirty. Along with that, you need the proper maintenance to prevent any accidents on your property. Make sure to pay attention to those walkways, hedges, and tree branches. Any of those spaces could be a hazard if you leave them unchecked. A company specializing in commercial lawn care services can handle it if you don’t want to tackle those chores by yourself.

Spruce Up Your Seasons

Trees can add some seasonal color, but your property can really pop with flowers and plants. In the spring, add some cheerful blooms. By summer, your landscape can come alive with splashes of blues, purples, and pinks. Fall is another great time for color with yellows, reds, and oranges. You can rotate your plant selection out for the season and create some added interest throughout your landscape.

Keep Away Pests

With all your hard landscaping work, you don’t want pests and rodents residing in those spaces. Make sure that all garbage is removed. Plus, you can add some elements that keep them away. Gravel is a better choice for cover around buildings. Ground cover is pretty, but it can make a habitable home for mice.

Plan Your Parking Lots

Parking lots are the last place where you might think of landscaping. Most lots have islands scattered throughout the space, and those areas are perfect places to add color and texture. If you live in a hot environment, place a few trees for some shade. Some shrubs and trees are a great way to introduce color into the cold, harsh parking lot.

Provide Adequate Lighting

If you want to keep visitors, employees, and others safe, you need lighting around the entrance and walkways. Lighting can highlight specific spaces on your property, such as the company’s sign or entrance. Along with that, great lighting can highlight the building’s architecture and provide a little drama. Even trees can be illuminated for more interest in your landscape. Along with enhancing the beauty of your landscape, lighting can keep your facility secure. Lighting is known to keep away would-be thieves and intruders from breaking into your building.

Engage Your Employees

Happy employees are more productive. You can boost workers’ morale by adding some well-manicured spaces for them to sit outside and eat. In many places, employees will use these spaces to hold a meeting or take a break. Fresh air and sunshine can break up the day for your workers. Adding benches, colorful plants, and water features will create a relaxing space for guests and employees to visit.

Go Green

While upgrading your building with greener technology, you can incorporate some of those elements into your landscaping plans. If you have a lawn, you know that it requires a lot of water to remain green and lush. You can reduce water consumption by replacing the grass with native plants. Many companies are going green, and you can talk to a commercial lawn care service to find the right options for your industrial building.

Let Us Help With Your Commercial Needs

At Charlestown Landscaping LLC, we have the experience to make your industrial building or warehouse shine. We understand the complexities of commercial landscaping. Our team will go the extra mile to keep your trees, lawns, and plants maintained throughout the year. You never have to worry about lawn care again. If you would like to schedule a consultation, please give us a call at (610) 608-3965.

What Does the Average Homeowner Really Need to Know about Pesticides for Lawns?

/in , /by

When you take a walk through the lawn care aisle, there are plenty of choices for pesticides. Some pesticides are designed to target specific pests, but not all of them are meant to be used around your family or pets. You might think you know everything about pesticides, but there could be hidden dangers if you are not careful. Here are a few tips before you reach for that bottle of pesticide.

Keep Away Those Pests

Many people use pesticides to keep away dangerous insects that carry diseases. However, those over-the-counter bottles contain harmful chemicals that can pose a risk to your health. If you don’t read the label, you can expose your children, family members, and pets to these dangers. Even those professionally applied chemicals are still harmful. In many cases, you might see signs to “keep off the lawn” that warn others from coming into contact with these chemicals.

Most pesticides can be used safely, but you really need to read the warnings. On every bottle, the packaging will explain how much you need to use for your lawn. If you want to be proactive, make sure to contact your neighbors if you plan to spray any of these chemicals. Take time to block off access from your lawn. You don’t want anyone walking across the grass and coming into contact with the pesticides. Taking these special measures can keep others from becoming contaminated while you use these pesticides.

Healthy Lawns Without Using Pesticides

While you might think that pesticides are the only way to get a healthy lawn, there are other methods. Look at the health of your grass. When it is green, well-hydrated, and maintained, it is less likely to attract pests, weeds, and other problems.

When there is an issue with the lawn, the average homeowner will turn to those pesticides. However, pesticides only stop a part of the problem. You can spray all the chemicals, but that will not get to the root of the issue. Your lawn might have difficulties due to a fungus or drought. Make sure to address those problems before reaching for a bottle of chemicals.

When you develop a plan to maintain your lawn, you will have more success than spot treating your problems. Frequent use of pesticides can do more harm than good, and it is never a solution for those who want to attain a healthier lawn.

Tips for a Healthier Lawn

Since many homeowners are turning to pesticide alternatives, there are some things that you can do to increase the health of your grass. First, you might want to reach out for some professional help. There are local groups that can help identify and treat common problems with your grass. If you don’t want to waste time, a professional landscaping company can inspect your lawn and find a solution to get it back into shape.

You might want to consider an integrated pest management plan for your yard. With that, you can develop a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective way to deal with pest problems. These solutions might even use natural solutions that can remove and prevent pests from taking residence in your yard. In some cases, certain communities ban the use of pesticides, and this might be your only option for pest control.

Using Pesticides Responsibly

If you must use pesticides in your yard, it is important to take certain steps. You need to use them responsibly and avoid overexposing your family and pets to the chemicals. It is always important to use products that have been tested and regulated for home use. In some cases, it could be tempting to take a professional product and apply it to your lawn. Without the proper knowledge of these chemicals, you could inadvertently damage your grass, trees, and plants.

Along with that, never use a homemade product on your grass. You might have read about a great DIY solution for your pest control, but it can lead to a harmful concoction for your yard when you mix chemicals. You might even create something so toxic that it causes problems in the neighborhood. One thing to remember, all pesticides will seep into the groundwater. You never want to use something that could cause harm to the local environment.

Always Follow Directions

Along with making sure you use the right chemicals, it is important to follow those instructions. The label should tell you how to store, handle, and dispose of the pesticide. Make sure that you choose a product that is designed to treat your specific problem. For example, if you have grubs, choose a pesticide that will effectively treat them. Plus, take time to research the local ordinances in your community. You might be able to purchase certain pesticides online, but that doesn’t mean they are safe for your particular part of the country. Finally, always use gloves when handling the chemical and put on some protective clothing when applying it. Once you are finished, store those pesticides away from pets and children.

Pesticides are effective when they are used sparingly. You want to apply it when there is evidence of pests, and it should only be used in a specific area. Timing the application is important so that you avoid any repeated treatments. In addition to that, only buy small amounts of the pesticide that you plan to use. Storing chemicals are dangerous, and they can lose effectiveness after a period of time.

Professional Pest Control Solutions

While pesticides might seem like a fast way to treat those pests in your yard, they can cause harm if not properly used. Reach out to the experienced team at Charlestown Landscaping LLC. We have solutions to rid your yard of those unwanted guests, and our team can offer more environmentally friendly options. Leave the pest control to the professionals. With our services, you will have a healthier and greener lawn in less time than if you try to treat it by yourself. Make sure to schedule a consultation by calling (610) 608-3965.

Deciphering Between Dead and Dormant Grass

/in , /by

You have done everything for your lawn, from mowing to fertilizing, and there are still brown spots on the grass. When the turf starts to brown, it could signify that there are problems retaining nutrients and water in the soil. In some cases, your grass is not getting enough water or food. However, brown grass is not an automatic death sentence for your lawn. It might be entering a dormant stage, especially if you are in the middle of a hot summer season.

Does Grass Go Dormant?

Plants, trees, and grass can all enter a period of no growth. That is known as the dormant stage. When it becomes too hot, cool-season grass will start to go dormant to protect itself from droughts. On the opposite end, warm-season grasses enter their dormancy when the weather turns colder. During these stages, the grasses will “die” and then start to “green” when the optimal growing conditions have returned. You should think of dormancy as the grasses’ natural way to prevent actual death.

While the grass blades might look dead, an area known as the crown resides deep inside the plant. When that area gets the much-needed moisture, the grass will come to life and start to turn green in two weeks.

Grass is pretty resilient, and it can stay in a dormant phase for six weeks without any permanent damage. After that period, your lawn could experience turf loss. In some cases, you might lose about 25 percent of your turf for every week of limited water and nutrients.

Try the Tug Test

When you look at dormant grass and a dead lawn, they will have a similar appearance. However, there are few ways to distinguish these lawns. You can perform the “tug test.” With that, take a handful of the turf and quickly pull it. If the blades pull out easily with little resistance, you have a dead lawn. Any resistance to a tug is a sign that your lawn is just dormant.

You might also want to take a look at the entire lawn. If the whole area of your lawn is brown, that is a good sign the grass is in a dormancy stage. A mixture of green and brown areas could be an indication of dead spots in your yard.

Causes for Dead Grass

Now that you have conducted a simple test on your grass to determine whether it is dead or dormant, you want to find out the reasons behind it. With some information about the causes, you can find effective ways to keep your grass from dying. If you are looking for expert help, think about asking a company that specializes in commercial lawn care services for assistance.

Droughts are the top reason for dead turf. In the summer, some people think that rainfall is enough to hydrate the blades. However, most grass needs about an inch of water per week for optimal health. Compact lawns are the most susceptible to deadly droughts.

Speaking of compacted lawns, thatch is another grass killer. Over time, decaying debris can build up and choke out the healthy grass in your lawn. You can easily break up that thatch with a few tools.

You probably already know the importance of fertilization, but overfeeding your grass can be as dangerous as having no nutrients. You might want to stop with any fertilization treatments in the summer since that process can cause brown patches in the hot weather.

It is important to check the blades of your mower. Sharp blades are the best to keep your lawn in top shape. With a dull blade, it can cause damage to the grass, leading to brown spots. Plus, the right height makes all the difference in the health of your grass. Make sure to keep those blades about 3 inches from the ground in the summer.

In the summer, you need to watch out for under- and over-watering. If your grass is not getting enough moisture, it will start to have a straw-like appearance. On the other hand, you will leave soggy footprints on the grass when you walk on an overwatered lawn. When you need water, make sure to accomplish this task in the early morning hours to allow for proper evaporation.

Pests can be the bane of existence for many homeowners. They leave behind chewed grass blades and brown spots on your lawn. If your lawn can be easily pulled up, then you might have a grub infestation. Chinch bugs, mites, leafhoppers, and mole crickets are other insects that can create havoc in your lawn.

If you have a dog, you know that those pet spots are unsightly. However, don’t just blame Fido. Other animals, like rabbits and birds, can leave urine spots on your lawn. Animal urine can cause a lot of damage, turning a bright green lawn into a yellow eyesore.

Finally, your dead grass could be the result of a fungus on the lawn. There is no shortage of diseases that will damage the lawn, leaving you with dead brown spots. In the summer, hot and humid conditions can be a breeding ground for grass fungus. During that time, you might notice brown spots that reach several feet in diameter.

Prevent Dormant and Dead Lawns

You might think that brown grass is a lost cause, but there are ways to revive it. When you have a better understanding of the issues, you can take steps to resolve them. A healthy lawn needs to be seeded, watered, and mowed throughout the spring, summer, and fall. If you notice that your grass is showing signs of dormancy, make sure to take appropriate steps to keep it healthy. With a little help, you can keep your grass looking great throughout the year.

Professional Commercial Lawn Care

If you need help with lawn care around your property, reach out to the team at Charlestown Landscaping LLC. We can take the necessary steps to prevent brown spots throughout your yard. You can learn more about our services by calling us at (610) 608-3965.

How To Keep Your Retail Center Vibrant During The Summer

/in , /by

In the heat of the summer, your retail center landscape can look a little tired. However, those high temperatures don’t mean that you have to look at damaged green spaces all season long. There are a few things you can do to keep up the vibrancy of your landscape. With these few tips, your outdoor spaces will remain lush and green throughout the summer.

Think About Irrigation

As you already know, watering is vital to keep your plants, trees, and grass hydrated. However, you need to make sure you are not overwatering or underwatering these landscaping elements. For commercial landscaping, you might be better off installing an irrigation system. Some of these systems can detect when there is rain in the area and prevent overwatering in your landscape. These automatic watering systems will take some of the guesswork out of this critical chore.

With smart irrigation, you never have to waste money on unnecessary watering. This water-saving technology uses sensors to deliver the right amount of water to your landscape. Along with that, if a line breaks, the system will shut off and stop any water from flooding the yard. Smart irrigation is the best way to water your plants without worrying about wasting dollars or precious resources.

If you need some help finding the right irrigation system for your landscape, you can always reach out to a company specializing in commercial lawn care services. These professionals understand the watering needs of these unique landscapes and can suggest ideas for your retail space.

Summer Watering Is Vital

While you might want to grab the hose and water every day, you need to think twice. With frequent waterings, you can create weak roots in your commercial landscape. In some cases, the roots could start to grow upward in an attempt to get more water. That’s always a bad sign!

You should think about watering less frequently. Extended watering sessions can do wonders. A deep soaking watering can help to replenish and nourish those roots. Plus, it can encourage the roots to grow deeper into the ground.

The time of day when you choose to water is also essential. You should never water in the middle of the day. At that time, the water will evaporate in the hot sun. Think about breaking out the hose in the early morning for the best results.

Use the Proper Mowing Techniques

Mowing the lawn is more than pushing the mower up and down the grass. If you want a stunning retail landscape, you should understand the proper mowing techniques. It is important not to cut more than a third of the grass blades during the summer. When the grass is too short, it can lead to disease development and other issues for your yard. Tall grass has a healthier root system, and it will be able to handle the scorching temperatures in the summer heat. In addition to that, taller grass provides some shade for the soil and helps retain moisture for longer periods of time.

Spruce Up the Mulch

Mulch provides so many benefits in your commercial landscape, especially during the summer. With a couple of inches of mulch, your soil will remain cooler, and it will stop moisture from evaporating from the ground. Mulch also reduces the need for extra waterings for your flowers, shrubs, and trees.

However, old and thin mulch offers no benefits for your retail center. It won’t retain moisture as the mulch barely protects the surface around your landscape. If you want a carefree way to help the rest of your landscape, make sure to add some mulch to your summer outdoor spaces.

Keep Up the Maintenance

During the summer, all sorts of eyesores can pop up throughout your landscape. You want to fix those issues as soon as you spot them. For example, if your grass looks dry, it might be time for a drink of water. Those faded flowers should be removed from flower beds to promote more growth. Any damaged sprinkler heads need to be repaired quickly. Finally, don’t forget to pick up any garbage and other debris cluttering up your retail center.

Select the Perfect Plants

Some plants and flowers are pretty, but they can’t live up to those high temperatures in the summer. You want to choose plants that do not require much maintenance during this time. Make sure to select plants in various colors, such as pinks, yellows, and oranges. However, some varieties will attract bees, birds, and butterflies to your space. Keep that in mind so that they don’t bother your customers. Salvia, purple coneflowers, daylilies, and butterfly bushes are great choices to keep your retail space looking vibrant.

Xeriscaping is a popular choice for those extremely dry climates. You can add some xeriscaping elements to parts of your landscape. These drought-tolerant plants, trees, and shrubs hardly require any fertilizer or water. Not only does that brighten up your space, but you will not waste money keeping them hydrated throughout the summer.

Maintain the Health of Your Grass

You can avoid a brown and scorched lawn if you maintain the health of your grass. Healthy turf will also keep away those diseases and pests. You might want to think about a regular turf care program to keep your grass looking healthy during the growing season. With that, your lawn will be properly fertilized, and weeds can be kept under control.

Survive This Summer’s Scorch

Commercial landscaping can take a hit in the summer. However, with these few tips, you can keep your retail center looking vibrant throughout the season.

If you don’t want to fuss with these issues by yourself, think about hiring a commercial lawn care service. At Charlestown Landscaping LLC, we have the expertise to make your outdoor spaces shine in the summer. From mowing to aerating, our team is ready to handle your retail center’s landscape. Along with that, we even offer snow removal services for the wintertime. We are your one-stop shop for commercial property needs. You can schedule a consultation by calling (610) 608-3965.

Ten Reasons to Hire Professional Weed Control Service

Ten Reasons to Hire Professional Weed Control Service

/in /by

If you are a commercial property owner or manager, you might not have time to handle all those landscaping jobs, especially weed control. Weeds are a pesky problem that can damage the appearance and health of your landscape. You want to take care of those issues as soon as possible. For the most effective way to combat weeds, you need the help of a commercial lawn care company. Here are 10 reasons to hire a professional weed control service for your commercial space.

1 – Use Professional Herbicides

When you want to get rid of weeds, you might grab a product from a home improvement store. However, for those bigger spaces, these products can harm the local environment. Your city might have a ban on certain herbicides or pesticides. Along with that, the weed control formulas at the hardware store do not have enough strength to fight those weeds. If you want an effective way to control weeds, commercial weed control products are the best choice. In addition to that, these landscaping experts know how to apply these products to your outdoor spaces.

2 – Protect Your Grass

There are many popular types of grasses, including fescues, bluegrasses, ryegrasses, and bentgrasses. When weeds grow and develop, they will compete for nutrients with the existing grass in your property. Without air, water, and nutrients, your grass can develop diseases, and your lawn can become a breeding ground for other pests. When you use the right landscaping team, your grass remains happy and healthy throughout your property.

3 – Perform Soil Tests

A severe infestation of weeds could be tied to the quality of your soil. Soil can become a favorable environment for algae, insects, and pests. All your lovely flowers and shrubs will start to be affected by those unwanted guests. If you have used a standard herbicide without any results, it might be time to schedule a soil test. A commercial landscaping company can conduct a soil test and find a solution to your problem. With this test, you can be assured that your soil’s pH levels are correct. You will also know if you are using the right herbicides and fertilizers.

4 – Boost Organic Matter

Organic matter is found all around your property. This matter in the soil helps the trees, bushes, and other plants to flourish in your landscape. A good balance of organics benefits the local environment. Once you have completed a soil test, you will know if you need to raise those organic matter levels in your outdoor spaces. Your commercial landscaper will suggest the best ways to improve your soil.

5 – Effective Weed Control Sprays

If you want to rid your soil of any contamination, it needs to have a certain pH level. Some sprays will prevent weed growth, but they can destroy all your plant life. Organic sprays are highly effective against weeds. With these sprays, you can get rid of weeds and protect those delicate flowers and shrubs in your landscape.

6 – Mulch Maintenance

Mulch is another way to control weeds in your landscape. It can keep the soil moist to prevent weeds from sprouting to the surface. While you may need professional weed control treatments to stop unwanted growth, mulch is a great way to prevent some weeds in your commercial landscape. In addition to that, your commercial landscaping team can remove and replace all that old mulch from your property. When mulch becomes old, it is less effective in preventing weed growth. With that, you can have a weed-free space that looks great with a fresh application of mulch.

7 – Pre-Emergent Control of Weeds

Once the weeds have germinated and matured, they can quickly become a serious problem for your landscape. You might think the only way to treat weeds is after they have made an appearance. However, with a pre-emergent treatment, you can stop weeds before they develop. These solutions will target the soil and prevent the germination process of the weeds.

8 – Proper Grass Cutting Methods

Mowing and trimming are more than pushing a lawnmower across the lawn. Since there are a variety of grasses, each species has a specific cutting length for healthier growth. Your commercial lawn care company understands these proper cutting techniques. If you cut the grass at the wrong height, it can harm the growth pattern. Since you have already hired a professional team for weed control, make sure to use their mowing services. These professionals know how to prune and cut your landscaping for an attractive appearance.

9 – Professional Edging

You want your commercial landscape to look well-maintained. Edging is one way to give your space a professional appearance. Like mowing, edging is more than trimming near the sidewalks. Your professional company will edge the lawn to provide some symmetry to your property. Edging can complement the look of your flowers, shrubs, and trees. Weeds can even be controlled when you schedule regular edging with a commercial lawn care company.

10 – Make a Great First impression

If you have a small business, it is important to make the right impression with your commercial property. Many potential clients or tenants will decide to use your services based on the appearance of your outdoor spaces. You want to put your best foot forward with a professionally manicured area. Weeds can make your property look unmaintained. Before these pests become a bigger headache for you, reach out to a company that offers commercial lawn care services. They will help find the right solutions for your property.

Weed Control Services for Your Commercial Property

At Charlestown Landscaping LLC, we want to improve the appearance of your commercial spaces. We can control those damaging and unsightly weeds throughout your space. You don’t want to battle these weeds by yourself. Our team uses effective methods to rid your lawn of these invaders. Along with that, we offer lawn care, tree maintenance, and much more. If you are ready to schedule a consultation, please give us a call at (610) 608-3965.

Commercial Spring Maintenance Checklist

Commercial Spring Maintenance Checklist

/in /by

You have probably heard the term “spring cleaning.” As the weather warms up, you want to perform some of those cleaning tasks around your commercial property. Your landscape needs love after the harsh winter weather. These tasks are essential for the health and maintenance of your outdoor spaces. Here are a few jobs that you will want to mark off your commercial spring checklist.

Clean Up That Yard

Before you start to plant flowers, you will want to clean up all that debris from the winter. Dead grass, pinecones, and leaves might be on your lawn. If you see this debris, make sure to rake them up. After the harsh winter, your garden beds are filled with dead stalks and leaves. Any debris stunts the growth of new plants and flowers. Spring is the time to remove those dead elements from your landscapes. Unfortunately, garbage can find its way onto your lawn during the winter. You want to remove any trash. Not only does it spruce up your appearance, but it will help to keep your property in top shape.

If you have not raked the leaves for the fall, your lawn could have developed snow mold over the winter. This fungal disease leaves patches of brown turf on your grass. You can start to treat this issue with products that help break down the fungus and promote healthy lawn growth. Raking is also essential in the spring. A deep raking can control any thatch from building up in your yard.

Prepare Your Garden Beds for Fertilizing

For those established perennial beds, you might want to add some compost around the plants. Spring is an ideal time to remove any young weeds from the area. If you have any extra compost, you can feed other parts of your landscape, such as trees, shrubs, and grasses. Compost is an excellent alternative to fertilizer since it will not burn the plants.

However, you can still use traditional fertilizer in your landscape. You always want to follow the instructions on the packaging. The “weed and feed” products are the most convenient options for many people. These fertilizers contain a pre-emergent herbicide that can prevent pesky crabgrass from popping up in your lawn.

If you don’t have an established planting bed, you will need to complete a few steps. Make sure to till the soil to break the new ground. You can raise those garden beds to avoid any issues with drainage. Springtime is the perfect time to place landscaping fabric on the ground. This layer prevents weeds from sprouting and protects the surface from harmful UV rays.

If you don’t want to use landscaping fabric, you can also place a layer of mulch on your soil. Mulching stops weeds from forming in your beds, and it can keep moisture in the ground. Mulch is a great way to achieve a low-maintenance yard for your commercial property.

Planting in Your Landscape

Early spring is an excellent time to plant shrubs and trees in your landscape. You can also install some flower borders throughout your property. For those sensitive perennials and annuals, you may want to wait until the last frost has passed before you plant them.

In the spring, you might want to think about planting new grass, or you can begin to overseed an existing lawn. However, if you plan to use a pre-emergent, it is best to wait until the fall for the overseeding process.

Prevent Garden Pests and Weeds

Before pesky weeds take over your lawn, you want to stop them in their tracks. Mulch and landscaping fabric can help prevent weeds in a garden bed, but they don’t work for those grassy areas. In that case, you will want to use a pre-emergent herbicide. These chemicals work well to control crabgrass.

You want to use a pre-emergent in the spring. During this season, crabgrass starts to germinate between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. If you apply a pre-emergent herbicide in the spring, you can have better control of those weeds. It is better to manage them in the spring than wait until they have spread throughout your yard.

Pests are another problem for your landscape. Take some time to block off certain areas from rabbits and deer. If you have issues with grubs and other damaging insects, you can start to apply chemicals to treat them. For an expert opinion on pest control, you might want to consult a commercial lawn care company.

Prune Those Shrubs

With winter in the rearview mirror, it is time to remove any damaged branches from your shrubs. All those dead branches can affect the health of your shrubs. You can take a pair of heavy-duty scissors or shears and clip off the dead wood. Healthy wood can be pruned, but you want to be more cautious with these clippings. If you cut the wrong branch, you might damage the rest of the shrub. It might be best to have a professional handle this chore.

Remove Old Mulch

You know that adding fresh mulch is ideal in the spring, but you definitely want to clean out any of that old mulch. This older mulch compacts in your garden beds and disrupts those perennials from breaking the soil’s surface. You should wait to remove mulch until after the last frost of the season. After the old mulch has been removed, you can replace it with fresher options.

As you can tell, there are plenty of chores on your springtime commercial landscape checklist. If you don’t have the time to take care of these tasks, you may want to hire a professional lawn care company to handle them for you.

Let Us Help With Your Spring Checklist

At Charlestown Landscaping LLC, we have the experience to tackle those items on your spring checklist. We can get your commercial landscape ready for the spring and summer seasons. Throughout the year, our commercial lawn care services will take care of your outdoor spaces. If you would like to learn more about our maintenance plans, please give us a call at (610) 608-3965.

At Charlestown Landscaping, we can assist you in resolving these common landscaping issues. With our expertise, we offer professional results with our commercial lawn care, snow removal, and landscaping services.

What Are Some Common Landscaping Problems Seen on Commercial Properties?  

/in /by

As a commercial property owner, you want your space to stand out in the neighborhood. A great landscape takes hard work and time. However, there are times when a few landscaping issues can get away from you. Like most property managers, you are busy with other matters. You have to wear many hats to keep the property running efficiently. Unfortunately, landscaping can fall to the bottom of the to-do list.

After a while, these small issues can lead to more significant problems. Your irrigation system could turn on at the wrong times. Tree branches might hang over public spaces and snag pedestrians. You could have unexpected puddles on your property after heavy rains. While these problems might seem significant, they can be easily fixed with the help of a professional landscaping company. Here is a look at the most common landscaping issues seen on a typical commercial property.

Poor Drainage

Drainage issues are common problems in any type of landscape. You need water to keep your plants and lawn healthy, but there should be proper drainage to stop water from pooling around your property. While drainage might not seem like a huge problem, it is not something that you should ignore. If your shoes are squishing throughout your outdoor spaces, you need to address your drainage issues.

For the most part, the issue is related to faulty downspouts. These gutters can drain on your walkways and create issues. If you don’t handle these problems before winter, that extra water will drip on the sidewalk and cause an icy surface. In turn, that is a serious slip and fall hazard for your customers, tenants, or employees.

These landscaping drainage issues can show up throughout your property. When you see puddles in the lawn or parking lot, you need a professional team to help find the best solutions to fix these problems.

Faulty Irrigation System

When you install an irrigation system, you rely on it to work at the proper time. However, some of these systems are not programmed correctly, and they could turn on during inappropriate moments. For example, an irrigation system might be spraying at full blast during the middle of a rainstorm. If you have metered water usage, then you are wasting water and money.

You can improve your irrigation with a smart irrigation system. These systems have rain sensors that shut off the system when it is raining. They can also turn off if the system lines break in your yard. A smart irrigation system does all the hard work so that you can concentrate on other issues.

Timing Issues

The proper timing plays a vital role in keeping your landscaping looking healthy. For example, an irrigation system provides the right amount of water to your plants, flowers, trees, and grass. If you don’t water at the right time, your outdoor space can go from lush and green to brown and crispy.

If you own a commercial property, you probably water at night when everyone has left for the day. However, many plants need an early morning watering schedule to avoid diseases that lead to root rot or dropping leaves. These early morning watering schedules allow the water to reach the roots without the evening sun or strong winds dispersing the droplets in the air.

Timing is also essential when scheduling services for your commercial landscape. If you space out your services too far apart, you are left with an outdoor space that looks messy and overgrown. You want the help of a professional company to determine the best time to mow the grass, trim the hedges, and plant flowers.

Limited Tree Pruning

While you might think that landscaping is just about the mowing, it is more complicated than that. Your bushes and trees are a big part of your property. However, many property owners skip pruning these natural elements to save some money.

Pruning is an essential step in the life of a tree or bush. When you prune, you can keep the tree healthy and stable. If you skip pruning at these critical stages, you might have a tree that looks misshapen and prone to diseases. In the most severe cases, you can lose the tree. If you have to remove the tree, those services are expensive. You can avoid all those unnecessary costs with the right pruning schedule. You can always talk to a professional commercial landscaping company to determine the proper plan for your trees and bushes. They will know when it is the right time to trim your specific tree species.

Inadequate Snow Removal

When it snows, all that fluffy white stuff has to go somewhere on your property. Before you start shoveling, you need to plan for adequate snow storage. If there is nowhere to place the snow, it can block off parts of your parking lot and add more money to your snow removal costs. You might even have property damage if the snow is stacked or pushed into the wrong spaces. When that happens, your landscaping can experience some damage.

If you are looking to prevent these issues, you need to have a snow removal plan before winter rolls into your area. You can even install rolled curbs to prevent those plow trucks from pushing snow onto your landscape. With a little prevention, you will avoid snow removal problems that lead to high costs down the road.

We Have the Solutions for Your Landscaping Problems

At Charlestown Landscaping, we can assist you in resolving these common landscaping issues. With our expertise, we offer professional results with our commercial lawn care, snow removal, and landscaping services. Our team helps you keep your property maintained so that you don’t have to worry about it. You can sit back and relax as we tackle those tough landscaping jobs. With our services, you will never have to deal with these common commercial landscaping issues. If you want to learn more about our services, please take a few minutes to fill out the contact form.

How a Seasonal Snow Contract Saves You Time and Money

How a Seasonal Snow Contract Saves You Time and Money

/in /by

For property managers, wintertime can be a challenge. You will have to deal with snow and ice removal throughout the season. If you don’t address these issues, it can leave your business liable for injuries and accidents. For those who want to avoid these hassles, you should consider hiring a professional snow removal team. There are several types of contracts for snow removal. It is important to understand the difference between these plans. Once you have done your research, you can decide if a seasonal contract is the best choice for you.

Basic Contract Types

For many property owners, there are three types of snow removal contracts: time and materials, per occurrence, and seasonal. If you are looking to save money, it can be hard to choose the right one for your business. Many property owners choose the seasonal contract. This specific contract can provide you with the best return on your investment.

While these three different contracts might seem the same, they are fundamentally different in several ways. A time and materials contract will charge you a different price based on the materials and equipment used on your property. For example, if the storm produced several inches of ice, you will be charged for the excess deicing materials used at that time.

With a per occurrence contract, the same price is charged to your property no matter what materials and equipment were provided. If there is a big snowstorm, you will be charged the same amount as if there were only a couple inches of snow on the ground.

Finally, the seasonal contract will cost the same price year after year. No matter the resources provided or the number of storms, you will be charged at the same price. You can lock in these rates for three to five years.

Differences in Contracts

On the surface, the time and materials contract seems like a great deal. You don’t have to pay for services or materials that were not used on your property. However, there can be some issues with these contracts. If the contractor puts down too much salt on the driveway, you pay for all that excess salt. These accidents can lead to extra charges on your bill, and they often result in disputes with the company. In any winter season, you have to worry about the lack of predictability with the weather. Even with an accurate forecast, you never know how much you will have to pay with a time and materials contract.

If you are looking to remove the unpredictability from your contract, then a per occurrence may be a good choice. In the agreement, you can figure out how much the snow removal services will cost for the year. For the most part, these prices are static, but they get raised for severe weather events, such as blizzards. For many commercial businesses, they choose this type of contract.

However, you should not overlook the seasonal snow contract. In many places, these contracts are relatively new, but they are gaining popularity across the country. With these contracts, the prices stay the same year after year. You also don’t have to worry about a rebidding process for snow removal. These contracts allow you to rely on the same excellent snow removal services for several years.

Choose a Seasonal Snow Contract

A seasonal snow contract is also called a flat rate snow removal service. It works in a way similar to a landscaping contract. Many landscaping companies also offer these contracts as part of their services. The typical seasonal snow removal agreement will run from November to March, and many of them are valid for three to five years.

As much as you would like a lifetime contract, you will not find that option with these companies. Snowstorms are very unpredictable, and they can vary from one year to the next. You could have a snow-free first year, and then experience a significant snowstorm for the remaining years. With these contracts, the terms are long enough to average out the prices and allow a fair exchange for the service provider and property manager.

How Do Seasonal Snow Contracts Work?

As you can already tell, these contracts will clear snow from your property when you need it. You are locked into a set rate for a few years. All snow removal companies will monitor the weather. When the snow starts to fall, the crews will be out at your site to keep the spaces clear from snow. With ice storms, you can expect the teams to use deicing products to keep your sidewalks and lots safe from accidents.

Many companies know how to use their materials to keep your costs down. When you sign these contracts, a supervisor will come to your property to scout those primary areas that need the most attention. Most companies will also know your plowing preferences and budget to help keep your costs in check.

As a property manager, you want to get the best deal for your budget. With a seasonal snow removal contract, you have some budgeting predictability. You never have to worry about over-budget costs, surpluses, or contract negotiations for a few years. A seasonal contract will help you save time. There is no need to deal with the bidding processes of the past.

With the best snow removal contractors, you need to get a contract signed before the start of the winter season. Many companies already fill up with clients by November. You never want to wait too long to secure a snow removal contract for your property.

Get Reliable Snow Removal

If you want a safe and reliable company for your snow removal needs, you can count on Charlestown Landscaping. Our teams are ready to handle the heaviest snowstorms, and we will stay on your property until the job is completed. We have several options for your next snow removal contract. You can give us a call at the office or fill out the contact form for more information.

How Long Does It Take New Grass To Grow?

How Long Does It Take New Grass To Grow?

/in /by

When you see those bare spots in your yard, you want to cover them up as soon as possible. Before you start, you will want to know when the grass seed will take off and grow in your lawn. For many people, they want quick results with little effort. However, it is not always that simple to get a lush lawn for your home or business. Many factors can affect the growth rate of your grass. Here are a few tips that you need to know about the growing rate of grass.

Learn About the Germination Process


The germination process is the timeframe from when you plant grass seed to the time it sprouts in your lawn. If you want to achieve a luscious green blanket, then you will have to wait. The general germination time for grass seed is between 5 to 30 days. However, there are many factors to take into consideration, such as the weather and type of grass seed.

You need to know that not all seeds will sprout at the same time. In some cases, you might have a mixture of seed varieties that will have different growing characteristics. Before you plant, you should know how these seeds will behave in your yard.

As you can tell, the germination time will vary from one grass species to another. In general, you can expect grass seeds to grow according to certain germination times, such as:

  • Bentgrass: Between 10 to 14 days
  • Bermuda grass: Between 10 to 30 days
  • Buffalo grass: Between 14 to 30 days
  • Centipede grass: Between 14 to 21 days
  • Fescue: Between 7 to 14 days
  • Kentucky bluegrass: Between 14 to 30 days
  • Rough bluegrass: Between 7 to 10 days
  • Ryegrass: Between 5 to 10 days

If you are waiting for your grass seeds to show some signs of life and nothing is happening, you may have to look at your growing procedures. There might be other factors causing your seed germination to fail.

Contributors to Germination

Water and soil temperature are the two biggest factors for grass germination. It can be difficult to know your soil temperature without testing it. This factor will determine the type of grass that you should plant for your climate. For starters, you will have to see whether you have a cool-season or warm-season variety of grass. You can find cool-season grasses in the Pacific Northwest, Midwest, and Northern parts of the United States. Warm-season grasses are often found in the Southwest and Southern States.

Cool-season grass grows best when the temperature is between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. These grass varieties include bluegrass, fescue, and ryegrass. On the opposite end, warm-season grasses love temperatures between 80 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit. These grasses germinate slower than their cool-season counterparts. These warm-season grasses include Bermuda, zoysia, buffalo, and bahiagrass.

If you want your seeds to germinate, you need to add the right amount of water to your newly seeded lawn. With too little water, your seeds will dry out. By adding too much water, those new seeds can rot. In both cases, the seeds will not germinate, and you will be left with a bare lawn.

For the best results, you want to have enough water to keep the top two inches of the soil moist. Before you seed the lawn, you need to water the area. If you notice a pool of water, then you are watering too much. You can skip a day of watering until the ground dries up.

Growing grass is not a complicated process, but you need to know what you are doing. If you are lost about the process, you need to contact the lawn professionals at Charlestown Landscaping.

Avoid Some Common Mistakes

You need some dedication when growing that perfect lawn. Some pitfalls can affect your grass growing performance. You can grow grass in an existing lawn or a new bed. Whatever you choose, you need to avoid some mistakes that can harm your new grass seeds.

For many people, they do not choose the right species of grass for their lawns. Before you plant, you need to find the best varieties that will grow in your climate. If you fail to do this, then you could be out some money and time. For example, you might expect to grow luscious Bermuda grass, but that variety can only grow in certain climates. The United States is divided into planting zones. You need to find the zone for your area and choose the right grass for your lawn. By doing this step, you can avoid planting the wrong grass species in your yard.

You also need to be aware of your selected product’s seeding recommendation. Many people believe that more seeds will mean more grass in your lawn. However, when you add more grass seeds than recommended, they will all be fighting for water and other nutrients to grow. You also need to till the soil to protect the grass seed from drying out. This process will help improve the seeds’ chances of germinating in your soil.

If you have an established lawn, you can add cast grass seed into the lawn without much work. An established lawn will protect those new seeds with its grass blades. Finally, you want to seed your lawn at the right time. You cannot just throw out the seed when you feel like it. You need to know the type of grass that you want to plant. Cool-season grasses need to be planted in the late summer to early fall. Warm-season grasses should be seeded in the early spring to early summer.

With these few tips, you can have a lush and green lawn for your yard. If you want some expert help, make sure to contact the team at Charlestown Landscaping. Our landscaping professionals will help you choose the best grass variety for your home’s lawn and take out the guesswork of yard maintenance.

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