ARTICLES
February, 2023
We know there are multitudes of landscape plants toxic to cats and dogs. Now, we'd like to talk about plants that are generally safe and non-toxic. This article explores plants for the pet-friendly landscape, specific to canines and felines. It also provides important information for pet owners looking to create a safe outdoor space for their four-legged companions. When it comes to planting, there is much to consider and nothing is foolproof, especially if a pet has a penchant to nibble or chew plant material. Review these considerations and contradictions, and examine some of the shrubs, groundcovers, succulents, perennials, and annuals that are safe for both dogs and cats.
October, 2022
So far, this blog has covered various plants to look forward to as each of the four seasons approach. But what about plants with which to exercise caution? There are many landscape plants that make beautiful additions to our gardens yet pose serious risks to our beloved pets. To ensure the health and safety of our fuzzy friends in the outdoor space, this list explores some of the landscape plants that are toxic to both cats and dogs. With symptoms ranging from digestive upset, to dermatological issues, and worst of all, fatality, these are plants to certainly avoid when creating a pet-friendly landscape.
August, 2022
Land use decisions, traditional land development, and many landscape construction and maintenance practices often disregard the most important aspect of human health, safety, and well-being, the health of our ecosystems. If we are to mitigate climate change, we can no longer ignore this. Fortunately, there are programs within the industry to address these issues. The sustainable SITES initiative aims to do for the outdoor space what the LEED green initiative did for buildings and indoor construction. Green design and landscaping practices protect our environment, while offering many added benefits to property owners. Both time and money are saved through increased efficiencies. This article explores the SITES program. Read more to learn how to express a property's commitment to sustainability through landscape SITE certification.
March, 2022
To create an oasis and sense of relaxation in a shared space or outdoor living area, proper screening is needed. Decorative outdoor screens offer privacy while providing the opportunity for aesthetic expression. Privacy screens are far from mundane. These functional site elements come in an endless configuration of styles, shapes, sizes, and materials. Whether it means blocking an unsightly vantage, attaining definition within a space, or preventing neighbors and passers-by from disrupting a sense of peace and serenity in the landscape; think about outdoor privacy screens.
December, 2021
When comparing the seasons, the winter landscape seems less inspiring. Save for classic evergreen trees and shrubs; at first glance, it appears stark and dormant with bare branches. However, upon closer inspection, there is an entire world going on. Color and life are everywhere when we take time to notice. Winter interest plants provide aesthetic attributes equal in quality to their spring and fall counterparts. Bundle up for a mindful outdoor excursion to find these standouts. Or consider adding them to the landscape for added vibrancy just outside the window. These winter wonders offer color, ornamental berries, and support wildlife during the cold weather months.
November, 2021
The landscape requires time and patience to cultivate and actualize. Container gardening provides a faster, portable, and versatile alternative to fixed installations. Decorative planters add immediate color and texture to the outdoor space. Mostly, they draw the eye, creating aesthetic interest with seasonal and holiday-inspired displays. Planters benefit everyone, from homeowners and business owners, to neighborhoods and communities. As a living micro-environment with interacting organic and inorganic elements, growing success is bolstered with professional consultation from a landscape designer. In some cases, designers offer to procure specialty planters and containers that increase uniqueness and artistry, while decreasing maintenance needs. From novice gardeners to advanced horticulturalists in need of some pizazz in the outdoor space; think about planters.
October, 2021
Complete with sweater weather, changing leaves, and pumpkin spice; fall is here. Spying color in the leaves overhead is the most obvious indicator, and yet the entire landscape is rife with transition. The grand finale of the growing season is also observable in plants and specimens that express themselves in the understory. Look for these spectacular autumn plants while out in nature or consider adding them to the landscape to bring a pop of color and fall interest.
September, 2021
Professionals in many fields implement a standard design process to approach problems and develop solutions. Scientists, engineers, architects, and designers break projects down into organized phases with working steps. This is especially helpful for projects with many creative and interacting elements, like landscape design. Landscape designers work the design process into their business model. They guide clients through each step of the design process to develop expert landscape solutions. Nevertheless, when hiring a landscape designer clients may find themselves wondering what to expect. What exactly is the landscape design process?
August, 2021
As online appointments and meetings are a continued need; we are experiencing different ways of procuring services and doing business to ensure public health and safety. Online landscape design consultation provides a safe and socially distanced space to meet with a professional and start the design process. Follow these expert tips to get the most out of an online meeting with a landscape designer.
July, 2021
The need for solid landscape solutions goes hand in hand with owning property. From homeowners and HOAs, to the owners of commercial centers and public plazas, everyone has multiple decisions to make concerning their outdoor space. The best planning and most efficient solutions occur when the property owner forms a collaborative relationship with a landscape designer. Landscape designers transform conceptual ideas into functional visual plans. But what type of plan is right for the client, project, and budget? This article provides a breakdown of the types of graphics and plans that designers offer, from simple sketches to immersive 3D models of the landscape.
May, 2021
As spring reaches its peak, the plants around us begin to signal that another change is near. Summer is coming. These late spring and early summer plants welcome the season, and in some cases, bloom well into the hot weather months. Look for these plants while walking in nature or consider incorporating them into the landscape to increase seasonal color and interest.
April, 2021
HOAs strive to balance form, function, and budget to retain and increase property value. The landscape and up-keep of the grounds directly affect this metric. A well-designed and properly maintained landscape benefits the community overall. Follow these design basics and consider consultation with a landscape designer to improve the HOA community aesthetic and create a sustainable maintenance plan.
With a little research, the internet makes do-it-yourself home and garden projects accessible to everyone. When DIY landscape projects go well, they are empowering, satisfying, and financially beneficial. We save money while utilizing the skills we have or acquiring new ones. On the other hand, when DIY landscape projects take a turn, they end up creating risks, causing damage, and costing more money in the long run. The best way to reduce losses and ensure success with DIY landscaping is to consult with a design professional.
March, 2021
When improving or enhancing an outdoor space, it is essential to provide protection from the elements. Shade and shelter increase the use and function of commercial and residential outdoor spaces. When looking for an efficient and cost-effective way to provide structure or increase privacy, consider shade sails.
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As the snow and ice finally begin to melt, the birds begin singing louder, buds begin breaking, and signs of new life offer mindful engagement in the natural environment all around us. It's not spring just yet, but there are signs that it's on the way. Keep a lookout for these early spring plants. These classics are the indication that spring has sprung.
February, 2021
Successful designs start with a plan. Is what we are imagining cost-effective; will it add value; is it sustainable? Just as an architect is needed to create the drawings and schematics of a building, a landscape designer is needed to create the plans that inform the construction of outdoor spaces. Commercial or residential; big or small, every landscape project benefits from the consultation and planning of working with a landscape designer.
Many in-person services have moved online due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Online landscape design services offer a 100% remote and socially distanced design process. The health, safety and well-being of our clients is of the utmost priority.