Your Landscape Partner: Thoughts, ideas, experiences, and expertise from the field…
Antidesiccants
Winter poses a significant challenge for outdoor plants, particularly evergreens that retain their foliage year-round. One of the most common issues is desiccation—a condition where plants lose moisture faster than they can replace it due to cold temperatures, dry winds, and frozen ground. Antidesiccants are an effective solution for protecting plants against this stress.
Fallen Leaves Are Valuable
As leaves blanket our lawns each fall, the traditional leaf-raking and leaf-blowing routine begins for many homeowners and landscapers. But there’s a growing movement toward alternatives that are both easier on you and better for the environment. Instead of bagging and disposing leaves or hauling them off to the yard waste dump, some landscapers and gardeners are choosing to mulch them or use them in garden beds. Here’s why this method of "working with the leaves" is catching on and how you can make it part of your fall maintenance routine.
Watering Tools
Proper watering is crucial for healthy plant growth, especially during hot summer months or when establishing new plantings. Homeowners and landscapers alike can benefit from a variety of specialized tools designed to deliver water efficiently and effectively. In this blog, we'll explore some essential watering tools, including soaker rings, water bags, root probes, and more, discussing their uses, benefits, and how they can help you achieve a thriving landscape.
The Power of Prompt Billing
In the fast-paced world of landscape contracting, where projects can range from simple lawn maintenance to complex design and installation, staying on top of finances is crucial. One key aspect of maintaining a healthy cash flow and sustaining your business is prompt billing. While it might seem like an administrative task that can be put off, delaying invoicing can have significant consequences for your business. Prompt billing should be a top priority for every landscape contractor.
Fertilizer Basics
Fertilizing your lawn and garden can transform a lackluster landscape into a thriving, lush paradise. However, understanding the types of fertilizers, how to read labels, and the best practices for application can be daunting. I’ll explain the essentials to help you make the most informed decisions for your green space.
Help With Creeping Charlie
As a landscaper, few challenges test my patience and perseverance as much as battling Creeping Charlie (Glechoma hederacea). Known also as ground ivy, this invasive perennial weed is notorious for its rapid spread and tenacity in landscape beds and turf grass alike. In this blog post, I'll share my personal journey in combating Creeping Charlie and combine it with expert strategies to provide a comprehensive guide on how to manage this relentless invader.
Lurking In Your Landscape - TICKS
Ticks. Just the word is enough to send shivers down the spine of any outdoor enthusiast, especially landscape contractors and home gardeners. While we often talk about the beauty of our outdoor spaces, there's a silent menace lurking amidst the foliage: ticks. These tiny creatures might not be the most glamorous topic, but understanding them is crucial for anyone who spends time outside. So, let's learn about the world of ticks and explore why they're a landscape hazard that demands our attention.
The Gas To Battery Switch
In landscape contracting, staying ahead of the curve isn't just about aesthetics; it's about efficiency, sustainability, and meeting the evolving demands of clients. As the world shifts towards more eco-friendly practices, the transition from gas-powered to battery-powered equipment is not just a trend but a necessity. In this guide, we'll dive into the hows and whys of making this transition, addressing current limitations, highlighting the benefits, and discussing strategies for marketing your green approach.
The Forgotten Trees
As cities grow and strive for a better balance between development and nature, the planting of trees on commercial landscape sites becomes a vital part of the plan. These trees aren't just decorations; they're essential for keeping our environment healthy. These trees are an important part of our green infrastructure, providing shade, reducing pollution, and enhancing the overall aesthetics of our urban spaces. However, there's an overlooked aspect to this green initiative: what happens when these newer trees, mandated for occupancy, permitting, or as replacements for mature trees removed during construction, succumb to various factors and die prematurely?
Cicada Countdown
Get ready, Illinois landscape contractors! This year marks a momentous occasion in nature's calendar—the emergence of the 17-year cicadas. For about four to six weeks, there will be millions of big, red-eyed insects flying around and making an ear-splitting noise, especially in areas with lots of old trees. They will be annoying, but they are harmless to people and pets; they can’t bite or sting. By the end of June, it will all be over. As these remarkable insects prepare to make their grand entrance, it's essential for landscape professionals to understand what to expect and how to mitigate any potential impacts on the landscape. Let's dive into the details and equip ourselves with the knowledge needed to navigate this natural phenomenon with ease.
Pruning VS Shearing
Keeping your shrubs tidy isn't just about a quick trim. Understanding the difference between pruning and shearing is key to making sure your plants not only look good but stay healthy too. Let's break down these methods to figure out which is best for your greenery.
10 Common Landscaping Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Solutions for the Top 10 Landscaping Mistakes
The Value of Trade Shows
In the green industry, staying updated on the latest trends and connecting with others is key. One way that consistently proves valuable is attending trade shows. These events bring together a mix of people who love landscaping and nursery growing, creating a space to share experiences, build relationships, and move the industry forward.
Snowless Winter
In the complex rhythm of climate shifts, El Niño frequently plays a significant role, affecting weather patterns across the world. Even though the Midwest usually braces itself for winter, the occasional occurrence of a snowless El Niño can throw off the expected seasonal patterns. This blog post discusses the distinct challenges this weather event presents for plants in Midwest landscapes and provides insights on how gardening enthusiasts can adapt to the unexpected twists.
How to Shine With Positive Reviews
In today's digital age, online reviews hold significant influence over consumer decisions. Positive reviews can be a powerful tool for attracting new clients and building a stellar reputation for your landscape company. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies and tips to help you generate positive reviews that showcase your company's excellence and attract more business.
How to Properly Prune a Tree Branch
Pruning tree branches is an essential practice to maintain the health, appearance, and safety of trees. When done correctly, pruning promotes proper growth, removes damaged or diseased branches, and enhances the overall structure of the tree. In this blog post, we will explore the step-by-step process and share expert tips for properly pruning tree branches to ensure optimal results.