When we think about landscaping in winter, we often think about planning. Not planting. Winter is an excellent time to dream, design, and think big for spring. But there’s also a surprising amount of planting that can happen during the winter months, especially in regions like ours where winters tend to be relatively mild. The good news is, even as the holidays approach, it’s not too late to plant. In fact, cold weather helps some plants and trees become stronger and healthier. However, winter … [Read more...]
Do I Really Need To Remove Leaves From My Yard?
Ahh, fall. It’s one of the most beautiful times of year in Loudoun County and Northern Virginia. What’s the best approach to managing autumn leaves? Should you remove them or let them be? Here’s a quick guide to leaf removal and a few additional tips for fall and winter yard cleanup. Should I Remove Leaves From My Lawn? Clearing leaves is an essential part of fall lawn care. If you let leaves pile up, they can block all-important fall sunlight from nourishing your lawn. Leaves can also trap … [Read more...]
Choosing A Landscaper: Why Professionalism Matters
When you have a plumbing or electrical problem, chances are you’re going to seek references and look for the best professionals to take care of it. When you think about lawn and landscape maintenance, the same concept applies. Your landscape is part of your home and represents a significant investment. It’s also one of the first things people notice when they visit. Experienced and qualified landscapers are trained professionals. When you work with a company that values professionalism, it means … [Read more...]
Tips For Cleaning and Repairing My Hardscape
It’s still patio season! We’ve had a blast at summer gatherings-- with fireflies glowing and cicadas humming. Now it’s time to enjoy fire pits and other hardscaping features that make patio life even more enjoyable. But how do you keep the non-living elements of your landscape looking their best? Even when you take excellent care of your hardscapes, weather, wear and tear, weeds and insects can take a toll. But don’t stress. Your outdoor spaces are meant to be enjoyed. Use them, have fun with … [Read more...]
What Should I Ask My Landscaper About Fall Landscaping?
Summer is winding down, and little by little, the leaves are letting go of their branches. All the growing and blooming, mowing, and weeding will soon slow and stop. But that doesn’t mean it’s time to turn away from your landscape. In fact, fall is one of the most productive and rewarding times to focus on landscape design. You can plan, prepare, prune and plant and work with your landscaper to help your plants survive the winter and make a glowing reappearance next spring. Another plus: your … [Read more...]
Aeration and Overseeding: What Are The Benefits?
With plenty of rain this summer, most of us are still in full-on mowing mode in July. But Dryer late-summer weather will be here before we know it. Hotter temps can lead to end-of-summer brown spots and bare patches in our lawns. After the booming growth period of midsummer, late summer/early fall is a perfect time to focus on enriching our properties through aeration and overseeding. These tried-and-true techniques help us keep our lawns healthy and beautiful and lay the groundwork for a robust … [Read more...]
Will Periodical Cicadas Hurt My Landscaping?
Northern Virginia is abuzz with 17-year cicadas this month. They’re cool to look at with their bright orange wings and red eyes. The familiar buzzing sound that male cicadas make is annoying to some and a joyful song to others. But will they hurt my trees and plants? How Do Cicadas Impact Plants and Trees? There are 15 active cicada broods in the US, according to the US Forest Service. The DC region is a hotspot for Brood X (Brood 10), one of the largest cohorts in the country. Brood X is … [Read more...]
Top Questions to Ask When Choosing a Lawn Care Service
As we roll into balmy, busy May, yard maintenance is on everyone’s minds. Everything starts growing like crazy at this time of year. The challenge is keeping outdoor spaces large and small looking trim and tidy yet lush and green. It’s when mowing, lawn care, and other maintenance services kick into high gear. In Northern Virginia, we have lots of choices for lawn care, and recommendations fly by on social media. As you make plans for your lawn care needs, make sure you're getting quality, … [Read more...]
How Can I Control Ticks and Fleas In My Yard?
As we move through the gorgeous mild days of spring, most of us are spending more time outside. That’s a good thing, but we also need to be careful. At this time of year in the Mid-Atlantic, tick-borne illnesses are on people’s minds. Northern Virginia has become a Lyme Disease hotspot, and it's something we need to take seriously. Fleas can also carry disease and create infestations in your home if a pet brings them in from outdoors. The best way to cover all your bases when it comes to flea … [Read more...]
Spring Is Mulching Time
Spring is a time to celebrate as we can feel the days getting longer and warmer. After a dreary winter, we’ve seen crocuses starting to poke their heads out, but this can mean your weeds are also plotting a comeback. One of the best things you can do to stop weeds in their tracks is applying mulch and a pre-emergent before germination. NOW is the time to do it! Why Is Mulching with a Pre-emergent So Important? Combined with a pre-emergent herbicide, spring mulching is a great way to prohibit … [Read more...]
