VOLUME 8 ⚪ ISSUE NO. 15 ⚪ AUGUST 8, 2024
IN THIS ISSUE
◻️ Hardscaping
◻️ Lawn Aeration
◻️ Soil Testing
◻️ Autumn Prep
We just passed the midpoint of the summer season and we hope that you have been enjoying every minute of it. With the start of fall only six weeks away, we’re excited about the opportunities and projects that lie ahead for us in the cooler months.
Midsummer is a great time to assess your property now that most of all the trees, shrubs and flowers have fully bloomed and your landscape is at its peak. Do you find yourself looking at your property and making a “wish list”? Would you like additional shade, more color, increased privacy, or a dedicated and functional area to play, entertain, or relax in? If you’re shaking your head in agreement, let’s chat. ~Shayne
HARDSCAPING
Hardscaping refers to all the non-living elements in your landscape – think sidewalks, steps patios, fences, and walls made from materials like stone, brick, metal, wood and concrete.
These components, in almost any combination, can create additional outdoor living areas such as patios or terraces that can be used for entertaining, outdoor dining, or relaxing. The addition of a fire pit, outdoor kitchen, or pergola can help in extending the time you spend outdoors and be used all year round making them a very smart investment.
With the seemingly endless variety of shapes, colors, textures and materials used in hardscape projects, nothing is cookie-cutter, and a homeowner can ensure their taste and style will be reflected throughout their design whether it be subtle and classic, bold and daring, or a combination of them both. Even a simple stone edge on garden beds (below) adds texture, color, tidiness, visual interest.
LAWN AERATION
Aeration is a vital lawn care practice that involves perforating the soil with small holes to allow air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the grass roots more effectively. This process is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn, particularly in areas with compacted soil, which can restrict root growth, lead to thatch buildup, and result in poor grass health. Compaction often occurs due to regular foot traffic, heavy use, or even natural settling of the soil. By aerating the lawn, you can promote a stronger and more resilient turf.
Core aeration involves using a machine that removes small ‘plugs’ of soil from the lawn, leaving behind holes that improve air circulation and reduce compaction. Timing is important for this service, and it is also beneficial to fertilize and overseed at this time.as the newly created holes provide an excellent environment for grass seeds to germinate and establish. Additionally, applying a layer of compost or fertilizer after aeration can help improve soil quality and nutrient availability, resulting in a lush, vibrant lawn that enhances the overall appeal of any home.
SOIL TESTING
Soil is the foundation of any garden or landscape, and understanding its composition can significantly influence the success of plant growth. By regularly sampling soil, we can gain valuable insights into its pH levels, nutrient content, and organic matter, allowing for more informed decision-making regarding soil amendments and plant selection.
One of the primary reasons for conducting soil tests is to identify nutrient deficiencies or imbalances. Different plants have varying nutrient requirements, and a thorough analysis can help us determine which nutrients need to be added or adjusted to optimize growth.
For instance, if a sample reveals low nitrogen levels, we can amend the soil with nitrogen-rich fertilizers. Additionally, understanding the soil’s pH is essential, as it affects nutrient availability and indicates the presence, or absence, of beneficial microorganisms, crucial for healthy soil.
Another significant benefit of soil sampling is the ability to tailor maintenance practices to specific sites. If a particular area has high clay content, for example, strategies such as aeration or adding organic matter can improve drainage and root development resulting in a thriving outdoor space.
Soil sampling is an essential practice in delivering exceptional results. By understanding the intricacies of the soil we work with, we can make informed decisions that lead to healthier plants, more efficient resource use, and ultimately, landscapes that are both beautiful and resilient.
“In the depth of summer, the song sings itself.”
William Carlos Williams
AUTUMN PREP
Late summer is an ideal time to prepare your landscape for the upcoming autumn season. Here are some tips to get your yard ready:
- As mentioned above, aerate your lawn to allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Consider overseeding to fill in any bare spots.
- Fertilizing: A slow-release fertilizer helps your grass recover from summer stress and prepare for the upcoming winter.
- Pruning: Trim back any dead or overgrown branches on trees and shrubs. This helps promote healthy growth and prevents damage from winter storms.
- Planting: Late summer is a fantastic time to plant perennials, shrubs, and trees giving them time to establish strong roots before the ground freezes.
- Mulch: Adding a layer of mulch to your garden beds help it to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
- Weeding: Remove any weeds to prevent them from going to seed and spreading.
- Leaf Management: Start thinking about how you’ll manage fallen leaves. Consider composting them or using them as mulch.
“WE BELIEVE EVERYONE EVERYWHERE BENEFITS FROM A CONNECTION WITH NATURE.”
