Your Landscape Partner: Thoughts, ideas, experiences, and expertise from the field…

5 Stunning Plants You’re Not Using
Plants Alexander Head Plants Alexander Head

5 Stunning Plants You’re Not Using

Winter doesn’t have to mean lifeless landscapes. Even in Zone 5, there are plants that shine during the colder months with colorful bark, striking silhouettes, and unexpected textures. These five plants bring a fresh and dramatic twist to winter landscapes—ones you’ll wonder how you lived without!

Read More
Evergreen Perennials
Plants Alexander Head Plants Alexander Head

Evergreen Perennials

Enhancing your Zone 5 landscape with evergreen perennials ensures that your garden remains vibrant and appealing throughout the year. These plants provide structure, texture, and a splash of greenery even in the depths of winter. By thoughtfully selecting and placing evergreen perennials, you can create a visually stunning garden that looks great in every season.

Read More
Seasonal Needle Drop
Plants Alexander Head Plants Alexander Head

Seasonal Needle Drop

As landscape contractors, we often field concerned calls from clients when their evergreens begin dropping needles in late summer or early fall. While it’s understandable for homeowners to worry about potential disease or environmental stress, seasonal needle drop is actually a normal part of an evergreen’s lifecycle. Let’s break down what’s happening and how to communicate to your clients that this is a natural process.

Read More
When Trees Can Be Dangerous
Plants Alexander Head Plants Alexander Head

When Trees Can Be Dangerous

Have you ever looked at a tree and wondered if it could pose a risk to your home or property? Trees offer shade, beauty, and environmental benefits, but sometimes they can also become hazards. A hazard tree is any tree that poses a significant risk to people or property due to its condition or location. Arborists are trained to assess these trees and determine the best course of action, including whether a tree should be removed. But what exactly goes into that assessment, and how do they prioritize which trees need to be addressed first?

Read More
Heptacodium - Underused Ornamental
Plants Alexander Head Plants Alexander Head

Heptacodium - Underused Ornamental

When it comes to selecting plants that offer year-round interest, Heptacodium miconioides, commonly known as seven-son flower, stands out as a unique and underutilized option. As landscape contractors, you’re always on the lookout for plants that not only meet aesthetic needs but also thrive in varied conditions. Heptacodium fits the bill perfectly. This blog will discuss why this plant is so special, its cultural requirements, and how to best design it into your landscapes.

Read More
Canker Disease
Plants Alexander Head Plants Alexander Head

Canker Disease

Canker is a common but serious tree disease caused by various fungi and bacteria, which can cause significant damage if left untreated. Knowing how to identify, prevent, and properly treat canker is essential for maintaining the health and beauty of your trees. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this issue.

Read More
Container vs B&B
Plants, Landscape Contracting Alexander Head Plants, Landscape Contracting Alexander Head

Container vs B&B

When planning a landscaping project, one of the key decisions you’ll face is choosing between balled & burlapped (BB) plants and container-grown plants. Both options offer distinct advantages and drawbacks depending on your specific needs and site conditions. Here’s a closer look at each method to help you make an informed choice.

Read More
Magical Hellebores
Plants Alexander Head Plants Alexander Head

Magical Hellebores

As winter's chill begins to wane, a delightful surprise emerges in gardens across the globe: Hellebores, also known as Lenten Roses or Christmas Roses. These charming perennials offer a splash of color and joy long before the rest of the garden awakens from its slumber. Join us as we unravel the magic behind these special flowers, explore how to incorporate them into your landscape, uncover their simple care needs, and marvel at the variety of new varieties available.

Read More
Cicada Countdown
Plants, Landscape Maintenance Alexander Head Plants, Landscape Maintenance Alexander Head

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.

Read More
Snowless Winter

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.

Read More
The Magic of Winterberry
Landscape Design, Plants Alexander Head Landscape Design, Plants Alexander Head

The Magic of Winterberry

As winter casts its icy spell, many landscapes surrender to a monochrome palette. However, there's a shrub that defies the winter gloom with a burst of vibrant hues - Ilex verticillata, commonly known as winterberry. In this blog post, we'll explore the enchanting world of winterberry, its importance in winter pot design, and its versatile role in the planted landscape.

Read More