Now that summer is in full swing, it’s a great time to start planting that creative flowerbed you’ve been dreaming of! There are so many different ways to plant one, but one of the most fun parts is designing it and watching your ideas come to life. But where to begin?! There is no wrong way to design your flowerbed, but keep reading to check out four great ideas to get you started. Perennial ...
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Recent Posts in Landscape Category
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Creative Flower Bed Design to Dress Up Your House
July 12, 2017 -
July is “Smart Irrigation Month”
July 1, 2017 If you’re lucky enough to live in a perfect climate with approximately 1-inch of rainfall per week, you are on your way to a picture-perfect lawn! For most yards to look lush and inviting from spring to the peak of summer, watering will become a necessary part of your lawn care and maintenance practice. As we know, forecasting the weather a day, week or season at a time may be as easy as picking ...Continue Reading -
Top 10 Colorful Plant Choices
June 7, 2017 Think outside the box when adding color in your yard! Flowers can also add curb appeal to your home if you are looking at selling. Check out the following list of low-maintenance plants and flowers you still have time to add and enjoy: Hydrangea Invincibelle® Spirit: These beautiful pink hydrangeas are perfect for any garden due to their versatility. They grow well in a variety of soils and can ...Continue Reading -
Time Well Spent – Outdoors
June 1, 2017 In the heat of the summer, there is nothing more refreshing than going for a cool swim in your pool. Overall, pools are great for relaxation, exercise and they even have lots of health benefits. The season is also perfect for spending time outdoors and yard games are a great way to get everyone off their smartphones and play! Keep the fun going with landscape lighting, which accentuates your ...Continue Reading -
Pressure Washing Makes Important Visual Impact
May 10, 2017 This spring, don’t let the dirty walls or driveways stop you from making your business or home look its best. Weather and year-round wear starts to show in driveways, on siding and brick and along patios and decks. If your surroundings seem more dull than usual, we have a solution! Pressure washing (or power washing) is a great way to enhance the exterior of your home or business. Power washing ...Continue Reading -
Build a Backyard Paradise
May 3, 2017 Memorial Day weekend will be here soon, and with it, is the unofficial kickoff to summer gatherings, grilling season and more time spent outdoors. Whether you live in a subdivision or out in the country, The Grounds Guys has tips to help you expand your living space to enjoy the outdoors. Patios and Decks Patios and decks can help homeowners take entertaining, cooking and relaxation activities ...Continue Reading -
Avoid Dead Spots on Your Grass
April 19, 2017 Sunny days are often spent in backyard pools or playing games to keep cool. Summer fun can be undone when you notice brown spots in your lawn, and a few culprits may be the cause. Read on for helpful tips to prevent and cure dead spots on your grass. Temporary Lawn Toppers At the beginning of the summer, the whole family is ready to get out in the pool; however, if it is not moved around ...Continue Reading -
Where You Need Mulch and Why
April 7, 2017 With warmer weather around the country, weekends can be spent working to make yard the best looking on the block. If you lack landscaping expertise and want to make your yard look its best as quickly and easily as possible, we have an overview of mulch types and the many uses of mulch. This task is required every few years – so if it’s time for your flower beds – The Grounds Guys is here to help. ...Continue Reading -
Importance of Curb Appeal For Home Value
April 5, 2017 Spring is in the air and your home can benefit from some simple curb appeal tactics. If you’re planning to put your home up for sale, investing some time and resources can dramatically improve the attention-grabbing ability of your listing and even your selling price! Older properties can also come with a variety of lawn issues, such as overgrown trees and shrubbery or just an overall need for a ...Continue Reading -
The Start of Watering Season is the Start of Mosquito Season
March 22, 2017 Warmer weather means mosquito weather. The same routine occurs every year: the weather warms up, people water their yards, mosquitos arrive and then everyone gets bit. Mosquitoes are everyone’s least favorite part about the warmer temperatures. There are many reasons mosquitoes are around this time of the year: Standing water (formed after rain or watering a yard) Humidity Hot weather What Regions ...Continue Reading -
Get Sod Off to a Successful Start
March 15, 2017 This spring, many homeowners and business owners are preparing their landscape for the new season. As you look at your lawn, do you think it needs a little improvement? If the grass looks dull or isn’t in the same condition as last year, you might want to consider putting down some sod, or calling the professionals for help. Types of sod Centipede: Low maintenance, typically found in warmer areas. ...Continue Reading -
Spring Spruce Ups
March 1, 2017 As warm days become commonplace and perennials start poking through the soil, it’s clear that spring is almost here! If you want your lawn to look beautiful and provide a place to relax and play this summer, you can’t neglect spring clean-up. Here are the steps you must take during the month of March to achieve the summertime lawn and garden you crave. Prevent Spring Weeds Dandelions, crabgrass, ...Continue Reading -
Will Aerating Your Lawn Help it Be Greener This Spring?
February 15, 2017 With spring near, many people are starting to think about spending more time outside. For that reason, you might want the greenest yard on the block. To do this, there are many things you need to do to prepare your lawn for the warmer months. One of those things is aerating your lawn. Aerating your lawn is healthy for many reasons, including keeping the landscape of your home looking nice. What is ...Continue Reading -
Treat Your Lawn to Prevent Weeds This Spring
February 8, 2017 Lawn care can be time consuming and tough; however, it can also be very rewarding. Working in the yard just after winter might require a bit of extra work, but it will be worth it when you see your flowers blooming and your plants growing later on. One of the toughest parts of lawn care might be weed prevention. The Grounds Guys® have done the tough part for you by researching some of the best ...Continue Reading -
Make Your Yard Championship Quality
February 1, 2017 Are any of your friends or family avid football fans? If you would rather spend time in your garden than watching football, this is your chance! While everyone else is thinking about the big game, here’s what you can do to make your outdoor living space the champion of the neighborhood. Landscape Design If you’re hoping to enjoy your outdoor living space to the fullest this year, the first ...Continue Reading -
The Grounds Guys' Guide to Winter Plant Care
January 18, 2017 If you live in a cold climate, winter can be taxing on your garden. Fortunately, we have you –and your plants – covered with our guide to winter plant care. Follow our advice and your plants will live to see the spring. Indoor, Winter Plant Care You can and should bring potted outdoor perennials back inside for the winter, especially if they aren’t hardy enough to survive winter conditions. ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Pine
January 11, 2017 The Tree of the Month for January is the majestic pine tree. Evergreens, including pines, really stand out this time of year since deciduous trees will remain leafless for several more months. If you love the look and smell of pine, learn more about these trees before adding one to your garden. Pine Tree Information There are 79 species of pine tree, 36 of which grow in North America. All pine ...Continue Reading -
New Year's Resolutions For Your Lawn
January 3, 2017 Most of us ring in the New Year with resolutions, plans for self-betterment, and home improvement projects. Your lawn and garden can follow suit. Take steps now to ensure your New Year’s resolution of having a beautiful landscape will actually happen this year! When the weather cooperates, you can tackle plenty of gardening chores in January. Add the following projects to your to-do list for a ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Spruce
December 14, 2016 The majestic spruce tree displays individual needles, grey-green foliage, and purple/brown cones. Different from the needle clusters of the pine tree, these conifers sport a thick needle that will thrive in many climates, and that deliver easy-to-plant seeds from fragrant cones. Self-Reproduction While it is true that the spruce tree can be started by simply planting a seed from its cone - it is ...Continue Reading -
Clear a Way For Santa!
December 1, 2016 December is touted as the most wonderful time of the year as it’s filled with holiday greetings and happy meetings when friends and family get together. Driveways and sidewalks buried in snow and ice can get in the way of holiday cheer if your guests get their car stuck in the snow or slip on icy paths! The Grounds Guys® offers professional snow and ice management services , and we’ve shared some ...Continue Reading -
Fall Foliage Destinations
October 12, 2016 For many people, fall is a time of vibrant hues in nature. Places that are usually gorgeous are even more breath taking. This fall, pack up your family and take a road trip or hop on a plane to some of these beautiful destinations that are even prettier in person. Here are a few ideas of places to visit: The Smokey Mountains in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: This quiet little town will make you feel right ...Continue Reading -
Trim Trees to Get Them Ready for Next Year
October 5, 2016 Trees are definitely a vital part of our environment. They offer local wildlife a place to live, provide oxygen for us to live and keep your yard beautiful. Fall is the best time for preparing your yard for next spring and The Grounds Guys® has some great tips for trimming trees. Having trees in your yard that thrive does require some maintenance for it to truly thrive. Part of this upkeep ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Elm
September 21, 2016 The Tree of the Month for September is the stately elm. As green summer leaves give way to fall colors, keep an eye out for the elm trees’ beautiful golden leaves. If you’re interested in adding this magnificent tree to your yard, learn more about it first. About Elm Trees Elms are adored for their graceful canopies and stately appearance, with branches that spread like fountains. These trees come ...Continue Reading -
Landscape Your Life for Self-Improvement Month
September 8, 2016 As only an estimated 8 percent of people typically keep their New Year’s resolutions, there are plenty of people who don’t! It’s Self-Improvement Month and that gives people another opportunity to focus on enhancing your life in some way. Much like landscaping your lawn, the landscape of your life impacts your outlook on things. Follow The Grounds Guys’ suggestions below to use this time to get ...Continue Reading -
Dethatch, Aerate, Seed: Bring Your Lawn Back Next Year!
September 6, 2016 With summer winding to a close, it’s time to concentrate on lawn recovery to ensure your grass returns with full force next spring. The best methods to accomplish this include dethatching, aerating and seeding your lawn. Once you learn why these steps are important and how to perform them, you’ll ensure a beautiful yard for years to come. Dethatching Your Lawn Most lawns experience areas where the ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Magnolia
August 26, 2016 Magnolias are the quintessential trees of the south. The evergreen broadleaves are hardy, attractive, and can grow more than 60 feet in height and 30 feet in width. Magnolia blossoms are fragrant and iconic and the trees can survive the oppressive heat of the American South with ease. About Magnolias Trees of the genus magnolia have been around for a long time, with fossilized blooms being dated ...Continue Reading -
Summer is the Perfect Time for Indoor Plants
August 22, 2016 The heat of summer is too much for many plants to bear. They stop flowering, become scorched, or even completely wither and die under the relentless summer sun. If you love growing things and can’t bear to watch your plants suffer in the heat, bring them inside to enjoy some air conditioned comfort. Here are some of the best indoor plants for summer. African Violet These flowers are easy to grow ...Continue Reading -
Get Smart About Trees
August 5, 2016 Depending on where you live, certain trees work better in your yard than others. If you’re thinking about planting one popular variety or another, it’s best to first learn whether that tree grows well in your region or not. It’s time to get smart about trees and find out which ones you should plant for the best results. Understanding Plant Hardiness Zones The simplest way to figure out where a ...Continue Reading -
Summer Staining: Wood and Concrete
July 27, 2016 When it comes to revitalizing the hard surfaces in your back yard, sometimes a fresh coat of stain is all you need. Pick a dry day this summer to stain concrete patios, wood decks and fences. Follow this guide to ensure your staining ventures are successful. How to Stain Concrete The most common concrete surface you’ll want to stain is the patio. The process is pretty straightforward – just follow ...Continue Reading -
Power Washing Your Outdoor Surfaces
July 22, 2016 If curb appeal is important to you, power washing could be the chemical-free answer to uncovering your home’s natural beauty . Power washing cleans up your home’s exterior and the hardscaping around the property, from algae-covered roof shingles to cobwebs under the eaves to bird droppings on the sidewalk. Whether you decide to hire a professional for power washing services or you want to attempt ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Apple Tree
July 20, 2016 Our featured tree for July is the apple tree! Having an apple tree in your backyard is a great way to take advantage of lush summer foliage, ample shade, and fresh fruit for canning, baking and snacking. To get the results you want, you must understand how to care for your apple tree. About Apple Trees Ironically, despite their association with American patriotism, apple trees didn’t originate in ...Continue Reading -
Improving Your Outdoor Space
July 18, 2016 This is the perfect time of year to improve your outdoor space with additions that may include an irrigation system, outdoor living area, deck and hardscaping features. By acting now, you take advantage of the chance to work in the warm weather while still getting to enjoy the additions you make for the rest of the summer. Looking for some inspiration? Here are four ways to improve your outdoor ...Continue Reading -
Health Benefits of a Saltwater Pool
July 13, 2016 A new trend in backyard pools is saltwater pools. Saltwater pools have many benefits over traditional chlorine pools. A saltwater pool can be good for your pool and backyard, but swimming in saltwater also has health benefits. History of Bathing in Saltwater Did you know people have known about the health benefits of saltwater and seawater for thousands of years? The ancient Greek physician ...Continue Reading -
Which Kinds of Grasses Survive the Heat the Best?
July 5, 2016 If you live in a warm climate, you probably understand the importance of selecting a warm-season grass. Unlike their cool-season counterparts, warm-season grass thrives in the heat. In fact, their peak growing season is the middle of summer when temperatures are at their highest. Many, but not all, warm-season grasses are drought tolerant, meaning they can survive periods of high heat and little ...Continue Reading -
Keeping Things Green This Summer
July 3, 2016 Everyone wants a lush, beautiful yard, but this can be difficult to accomplish during a water shortage. A NASA study on lawns found that grass covers 50,000 square miles of the U.S., and the Safe Drinking Water Foundation adds that between half and three quarters of all municipally treated water in North America is for watering grass. If you’re trying to save time and money by watering less, use ...Continue Reading -
Plants That Keep Away Mosquitoes
June 28, 2016 Spring and Summer are known for the arrival of blooming flowers, fluttering butterflies and sandal weather. Unfortunately, this is also the time of year when mosquitoes make their return. By including a few strategic plants in your garden to keep mosquitoes away, you can enjoy spending more time outside without having to wear mosquito repellent. Initial Considerations Keep in mind that ...Continue Reading -
The Benefits of a Sprinkler System
June 22, 2016 It’s impossible to have a green lawn without water. Some places are lucky enough to receive exactly the right amount of water from rainfall. For the rest of us, sprinklers are the best way to deliver water to the entire lawn. How do you water your grass? If you currently drag a hose out into the yard with a portable sprinkler head attached to it, you may be considering installing an automatic ...Continue Reading -
Plants That Attract Hummingbirds and Butterflies
June 21, 2016 While you probably maintain a garden because you love plant life, the ability to attract beautiful wildlife is an added benefit. There’s truly nothing like the vibrant colors and fluttering wings of butterflies and hummingbirds to increase the appeal of your garden this summer. Their pollinating habits can even help your flowers bloom more brilliantly. Here are the top four plants you should ...Continue Reading -
Irrigation Repair to Prepare for Summer
June 16, 2016 Summer is upon us, and that means your irrigation system is working hard to keep your lawn green. Unfortunately, a lot of things can go wrong with an irrigation system. If yours needs repair, take care of the problem before your garden suffers! Here are some common problems you might face and how to tell when you need a professional’s help. Slow Leakage When Sprinklers Are Off If you walk around ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Crepe Myrtles
June 14, 2016 If you live in the South and want to add a beautiful, meaningful tree to your garden, crepe myrtles are a great choice. The flowers, which have a crinkled appearance resembling crepe paper, have a rich history behind them. While their meaning differs slightly from culture to culture, myrtle flowers are typically associated with marriage, chastity, good luck and prosperity. About Crepe Myrtles The ...Continue Reading -
Become a Gardener and Find Your Zen
June 8, 2016 Evidence has shown time and time again that exercising your green thumb is good for you. Gardeners live longer, and are far healthier in mind and body than their non-gardening counterparts. Take out your spade and pruning shears and celebrate this National Smile Month with a little tooth-flashing assistance from this uber-beneficial hobby… Gardening is good! It boost helps you stay healthy. Dirt ...Continue Reading -
Lawn Mowing Tricks No One Ever Told You
June 2, 2016 Mowing the grass is a pretty straightforward task, but are you unintentionally making the chore harder than it needs to be? Follow these 10 tips from Lowes to make mowing the lawn easier for you and more beneficial for your grass. Sharpen the Blades At first you may think this tip simply lengthens your to-do list, but sharp blades prevent you from having to make multiple passes. A quick investment ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Crabapple
May 12, 2016 Attractive and fragrant, the crabapple tree is a wonderful addition to any landscaping design . Though the raw fruit is smaller and sourer than their apple cousins, certain varieties also offer a source of fruit for jellies and preserves. Colorful Beginnings Sharing their familial lineage with the common apple tree, crabapple trees are of the Malus genus and also of the rose family ( Rosaceae ). ...Continue Reading -
Creating a Beautiful Spring Lawn & Garden
May 10, 2016 As the weather warms, you may be excited to revive your dormant lawn and start gardening. Maybe you’ve been envious of your neighbor’s grass and flowers for a few seasons, and now you’re ready to learn the tricks for creating beautiful spring color on your own property. Here’s what your lawn and garden need to look their best this year. Creating a Beautiful Spring Lawn Your grass can look lush and ...Continue Reading -
Wedding Flowers That Make a Statement
May 5, 2016 Wedding season is upon us, which means flowers are in full bloom and weddings will have beautiful decorations. Weddings throughout time have been a symbol of love and a life ahead. However, many people do not know that flowers have deep meanings and can symbolize much more than just a beautiful decoration for the ceremony and reception following. When choosing the perfect flowers it’s important to ...Continue Reading -
10 Most Amazing Backyard Ponds
May 3, 2016 With the weather warming up, you’re probably looking forward to spending more time outside. Is your back yard ready for summer? Maybe there’s a bare patch that could benefit from the addition of a small pond. Or maybe you want to overhaul the entire back yard this spring and install a huge water fixture. Whether you’re thinking large or small, get inspired by these 10 most amazing backyard ponds. ...Continue Reading -
Ultimate Spring Clean Up Guide
April 15, 2016 Did winter cause problems to your lawn or damage a few bushes and trees? Spring is the right time to clean up your yard and prepare it for the growing season. This ultimate guide will lead you through every step of the process to help ensure a beautiful lawn and garden this summer. Prune Trees, Shrubs and Other Perennials Heavy snow storms, high winds and frigid temperatures can damage or kill ...Continue Reading -
Spring Trends
April 12, 2016 Spring is in the air, and that means you’re probably thinking about how to prepare your yard for warmer weather. If you’re in search of some inspiration, consider these spring trends and the benefits they provide in your back yard. Landscape Trends Entertainment: If you often have friends and neighbours over on summer evenings, now’s the time to transform your backyard landscape into one designed ...Continue Reading -
Weeds: A Love-Hate Relationship
March 24, 2016 When it comes to keeping your garden tidy, it often seems as though you’re fighting a constant battle with weeds. These crafty plants often do more harm than good, but not always. In the love hate relationship you maintain with weeds, consider which ones can actually benefit your garden and the varieties you want to keep out at all costs. Weeds You Love Clover: This is one of the most beautiful ...Continue Reading -
Landscaping to Increase Your Home’s Value
March 22, 2016 Many homeowners are constantly on the lookout for ways to increase home value, especially when it’s nearly time to list it on the market. If you’ve already thought about renovating the kitchen, tearing down living room walls and adding a Jacuzzi to the master bath, it’s time to think outside the home and consider the garden. Landscaping has a surprising impact on your home’s value. It all comes ...Continue Reading -
Start Spring Landscaping Off Right
March 17, 2016 The first day of spring this year is March 20! While snow and frost are still threats beyond this date in many climates, it’s nearly time to start thinking about your spring landscaping. Start the season off right with these landscaping tips. Plan Ahead Before you pick up a trowel or purchase a single seed, decide how you plan to tackle your spring garden. You might want to break it up into stages ...Continue Reading -
Tree of the Month: Maple Trees
March 15, 2016 Maples are among North America’s most beloved deciduous trees . Whether you appreciate them for their tasty syrup, breath-taking fall colors or shade on a hot summer day, maples are certainly a good choice for many landscapes. You have a variety of maples to choose from, including slow-growing hard maples and fast-growing soft maples of varying heights and leaf types. Learn helpful planting, ...Continue Reading -
Mulch Madness
March 8, 2016 As you prepare your flowerbeds this spring, you may be facing a quandary: to mulch or not to mulch? Consider these pros and cons of this common garden add-on to decide if it belongs in your yard this year. Benefits of Mulch Mulch blocks the sun. This helps protect plant roots from heat damage and prevents weeds from taking hold. Freezing, melting and refreezing water can cause heaving, which is ...Continue Reading -
Is Melting Ice Dangerous?
February 25, 2016 Some people love winter and the magic of falling snow. Others want nothing more than to torch the white stuff and get back to warmer temperatures. No matter which category you fall in, you have to deal with ice and snow each winter if you live in a cold climate. Melting ice can pose some interesting hazards. Here are some of the dangers of melting ice and the solutions to help you avoid them. Ice ...Continue Reading -
Plan Your Spring Landscape
February 19, 2016 Does your backyard feel like wasted space? It doesn’t have to – you just need the right landscape design to suit your needs. Make plans now to transition your landscape this spring with the help of a landscape designer. Landscape Design Ideas Sometimes the hardest part about landscaping your yard is finding the right ideas you need to begin the project. Get inspired by these landscape design ideas ...Continue Reading -
The Dangers of Postponing Snow Removal
February 11, 2016 In most regions of North America, snowfall is a normal part of winter. Are you the type of person to jump on snow removal, or are you tempted to put it off? Learn the dangers of postponing snow removal and how hiring a professional may be a better option than attempting snow removal yourself. Safety and Liability Issues Snow and ice on walkways create a slipping hazard. If you or a family member ...Continue Reading -
Save Money on Energy Efficient Outdoor Lights
February 9, 2016 You have many options for illuminating your property at night, but energy efficiency is an important feature no matter what type of outdoor lights you choose. Consider some outdoor lighting products designed to make your yard look beautiful and save you money on electricity at the same time. Efficient Bulbs It was once a common practice to use traditional incandescent bulbs for both indoor and ...Continue Reading -
Preparing for Spring: Planting Annuals & Splitting and Replanting Perennials
February 4, 2016 Punxsutawney Phil in Punxsutawney, Pa., has spoken… we can expect an early spring this year! As onlookers witnessed at the annual Groundhog Day event, the beloved groundhog did not see his shadow. Whether Phil was spot on or a little off on his predication, it’s time to start making your preparations to have a beautiful and healthy spring garden. Do you need a little help getting started with your ...Continue Reading -
Snow Falls: Proper Snow & Ice Removal
January 27, 2016 The snow isn’t the only thing that falls in the winter. Once snow is on the sidewalk and driveway – melting and refreezing into ice – anyone is at risk to fall. Follow these tips for proper snow and ice removal to get rid of slippery surfaces and avoid injury the process. Effective Snow and Ice Removal Techniques Shoveling is the go-to option for many people, but you can try other snow and ice ...Continue Reading -
Light Up the Holidays Safely and Efficiently
November 17, 2015 If you’re among the two-thirds of Americans who decorate their homes with electric lights for the holidays, it’s important to light up your home efficiently so you can be festive without draining your wallet. Even more importantly, you need to install lights safely so the best intentions don’t turn into a trip to the emergency room. Here’s what you need to know. Lighting Up the Holidays ...Continue Reading -
Planning Your Landscape Lighting
November 13, 2015 Landscape lighting is fast becoming an integral part of the landscaping industry, as more and more people realize the benefits to their homes and businesses. In addition to added curb appeal, lighting can add warmth and security to any garden, walkway, or entrance. Whether you're looking to enhance an existing system or start from scratch, planning your landscape lighting will help you achieve a ...Continue Reading -
5 Ways to Effectively Use Your Compost
October 20, 2015 By Maggie Saint John Did you know that compost is one of the best materials available to enrich your soil and help you grow healthier plants? Applying finished compost packed with nutrients can help plants resist disease and fight off insects as well as ensure the vitality and growth of plants in the future. What are ways to effectively use your finished compost? Review these five ways to use ...Continue Reading -
Put Your Fallen Leaves to Work for You
October 15, 2015 When temperatures begin to dip, you know what’s coming: smells of pumpkins, caramel lattes and bright red, yellow and orange fall leaves. While the season is beautiful, autumn brings with it the never-ending battle of your rake versus falling foliage! Here are ways to make your fall leaves work for you. Natural Fertilizer: Do you love to garden? Does your company welcome guests with gorgeous ...Continue Reading -
Fall Color: What to Plant
October 1, 2015 As the sunny, warm, brightly colored flowers of summer begin to fade, instead of lamenting about the days past, look ahead to the colors of fall! Now is a great time to uncover new blooms that flourish in the cooler, milder days of fall. If you’re looking to add gorgeous fall colors to your property, here are some examples of beauties to plant right now! Some are annuals that will only last for ...Continue Reading -
Health Benefits of Power Washing
September 29, 2015 Are you looking for a way to create a healthier, more beautiful outdoor environment for your home or business? You could spend time and effort scrubbing surfaces by hand – or you could hire a professional to power wash everything from the roof to the siding to the driveway in one fell swoop. Which sounds like the better choice to you? What is Power Washing? Also known as pressure washing, power ...Continue Reading -
Leave the Power Washing to the Pros
September 18, 2015 If keeping your property clean is important to you, power washing is a solution that might interest you. Power washing, also known as pressure washing, is a method of cleaning outdoor surfaces with a high-pressure jet of water. The water comes out of a handheld nozzle attached to a hose, which is subsequently attached to a water source. The prevalence of power washing has increased over the years ...Continue Reading -
Bring Back Your Lawn: Seed, Aerate and Dethatch
September 15, 2015 Now that the summer is winding down, and the scorching summer sun is wreaking less and less havoc on our landscapes, we can once again concentrate on bringing our lawns back to their former pre-summer luster. How is the best way to do that? With seeding, aeration and dethatching. The experts at The Grounds Guys explain why these processes are so important to the enhancing the beauty of your ...Continue Reading -
7 Tips for Choosing Aquatic Flowers & Plants
September 8, 2015 Did you know that taking your pond from ordinary to extraordinary can be as simple as selecting the perfect aquatic plants? Colorful flowers or green plants can give your pond that extra bit of spark to catch onlookers’ eyes and improve your curb appeal dramatically. Below are some tips to consider when choosing plants that work best for enhancing your pond: Fake or Real? – This is answered by ...Continue Reading -
You’ve Been Soaped! Now What?
August 13, 2015 Soaping. It’s a prank as old as toilet papering someone’s house, but it can be even more destructive. It’s when a prankster dumps laundry detergent, shampoo or dish soap into a fountain so the churning water produces suds. Soaping may sound like harmless fun – a way to turn a public water feature into a giant bubble bath for a day – but the vandalism can result in expensive cleanup and have a ...Continue Reading -
Keeping Your Fountain or Pond Clean and Clear
August 10, 2015 In the heat of the summer, there is nothing more refreshing than going for a swim in your pool or listening to the tranquil sounds of your outdoor fountain. But before you can dive into your pool’s cool blue water or relax and enjoy the serenity of your fountain, you have to perform the regular maintenance that prolongs their crystal-clear perfection. It’s no fun swimming in or sitting by a murky, ...Continue Reading -
Keeping Landscapes Beautiful During Drought
August 4, 2015 Prolonged drought can wreak havoc on your landscape. The average property owner spends 60 percent of their water bill on outdoor irrigation, and during times of drought, imposed water restrictions can leave you watching your precious, beautiful lawn dry up, turn brown and die. Instead of watching your lawn waste away, have you ever thought about synthetic turf? Many home and business owners are ...Continue Reading -
Beat the Heat with Energy Efficient Landscaping
July 30, 2015 Keeping your home cool without breaking the bank is the ultimate goal for many homeowners who are feeling the heat not only from the summer but the growing bills. If this is you, we have great news! Cooling Things Off from the Outside While most of you may know about the countless ways to be more energy efficient inside your home, have you ever thought about what you can do to keep things cool ...Continue Reading -
Caring for Your Pet in the Summer Heat
July 29, 2015 Summertime is a time when many people like to enjoy the outdoors and soak up some of the summer sun. It’s also a time when you need to ask yourself these questions: Do you wear sunscreen? Are you drinking plenty of water? Are you conscious of the amount of time exposed to the sun? Then, as you take precautions to protect yourself and your family, you should also remember to take precautions to ...Continue Reading -
Watering: It’s All About the Timing
July 23, 2015 As you find ways to cool off this summer, have you ever looked out across the lawn and wondered what the blades of grass are thinking? Probably not, because they don’t actually think! But for grins, one blade may be saying to the other blade, “I sure could use a splash of water on my roots right now!” and the other one is yelling out: “Splash a little of water our way!” Summer is in full force in ...Continue Reading -
Grass Diseases: The Fungus Among Us
July 21, 2015 It’s a typical morning and you decide to enjoy your cup of coffee out on the patio. After all, you put in a lot of work getting your lawn to look its absolute best and you’d like to enjoy the fruits of your labor, right? But what is that over there? That discolored spot in your grass? Sorry, my friend, but there’s a really good chance that spot is caused by grass fungus. The good news is that you ...Continue Reading -
The Dos and Don’ts of Proper Drainage
July 16, 2015 Have recent summer rains left your yards a swampy mess? It could be that your home does not have proper drainage. Here are some helpful dos and don’ts to safeguarding your home from landscape flooding and water damage. Dos Do install trench and channel drains. Drains contain and direct water so it doesn’t pool in inconvenient locations. Do allow drainage runoff to channel back into the earth, ...Continue Reading -
Is Your Backyard A Breeding Ground for Bugs?
July 14, 2015 As you sit out under the stars on those warm summer nights, the last thing you want to do is swat at mosquitoes and shoo away bugs. In addition to being a nuisance, bugs can carry diseases harmful to humans, animals and plants. To keep bugs at bay this summer, check for the warning signs inviting to bugs, and take steps to ensure your backyard isn’t a breeding ground for irritating insects. ...Continue Reading -
Irrigation: Different Techniques and Benefits
July 6, 2015 If you walk down the lawn care aisle at your local hardware store, you will see a wide assortment of tools designed to help keep your lawn green. Everything from special hoses to timed sprinklers that walk around your lawn like an animal to spray nozzles that have turn dials with countless water stream options can be found. Yes, it is definitely easy to feel overwhelmed… but you don’t have to! The ...Continue Reading -
Get Creative with Lawn Mowing Patterns
June 30, 2015 Did you know that mowing your lawn is often considered an art? It’s true! With a few surprisingly simple mowing tricks, property owners can turn their lawns into unique masterpieces that are the talk of the town. Since the warmer weather warrant that lawns need mowing more frequently, it’s the perfect time to experiment with some new and creative mowing patterns, or let the professionals at The ...Continue Reading -
The Ins and Outs of Building a Retaining Wall
June 23, 2015 Let’s face it, not every yard is perfect. Nature is uneven, unpredictable and uncontrollable. Sometimes there is a hill where you want it to be flat, and sometimes it’s flat, where you might prefer a hill. Take control by building a retaining wall in your yard. Retaining walls hold many different purposes: Turn a hill into a multi-level landscape Level a yard that was previously on a hill Create a ...Continue Reading -
Recognizing Lawn Diseases and What to Do
June 18, 2015 If the curb appeal of your home or business is declining because your turf grass is looking a bit puny, you may have to put on your plant detective hat and go to work. To identify lawn diseases, you need to take a systematic approach to diagnose the problem before you can properly treat your grass. The Grounds Guys® can help walk you through a little green detective work so you can restore your ...Continue Reading -
Grass Clippings: What to Do with Them
June 16, 2015 When you leave grass clippings in the yard, does that make you a lazy groundskeeper? No! It makes you a pro at grasscycling and the king/queen of innovative nutrition for your lawn. The experts at The Grounds Guys have a few tips on how you can be the next “Grasscycling Guru,” protect your lawn, and help the environment all at the same time. All you have to do is leave the grass clippings where ...Continue Reading -
What Is Overseeding and Slit Seeding?
June 10, 2015 If your lawn looks like a patchwork quilt with some bare spots disrupting its uniform look, you may not need to tear everything out and start over by completely re-seeding it. There’s a simpler fix to restore your yard to its lush beauty -- overseeding. It’s the same lawn seeding technique used by landscapers to sow cool-season grass seeds on top of warm-season turfgrasses to achieve a green lawn ...Continue Reading -
Warm or Cool Weather: Finding a Grass That Fits
June 4, 2015 With over 10,000 species of grass in the world, it seems a little intimidating trying to decipher which grass is your perfect fit. Different climates, soil, and personal needs add a little more to the confusion to the question: What grass will grow best in my yard? If you look at a map of the U.S. provided by Lowe’s Home Improvement and divide it into three rows, you start to break down the types ...Continue Reading -
Seed vs. Sod: Which One to Choose?
June 2, 2015 A perfect lawn doesn't just happen. The glimmer of hope for a lush carpet of grass may begin before you even mow it for the first time. Choosing lawn type goes beyond selecting which turf grass is suitable to the growing zone and climate where you live. The Grounds Guys® can help you make another important decision -- whether to seed or sod your lawn. Seeding vs. Sodding -- What's the difference? ...Continue Reading -
Does Your Lawn or Garden Need Lime?
May 28, 2015 Liming is important for many lawns, but it’s not necessarily needed in every application. It’s also possible to generate negative affects if you apply too much lime. Use these helpful lawn tips to help you determine if your grass or garden needs lime and how much to apply when the time comes. Why do Lawns Need Lime? The purpose of applying lime is to increase the soil’s pH level. A measure of the ...Continue Reading -
Creating Outdoor Living Spaces on a Budget
May 26, 2015 If your back yard is currently just wasted space, why not revitalize it in time for summer? Outdoor living is a way to reconnect with nature and utilize your property to the fullest. But what about staying on budget? With these frugal ideas, you can create a beautiful, budget-minded back yard getaway. Utilize Salvaged Flooring Products Slate slabs nestled among pea gravel make for beautiful ...Continue Reading -
Conserve Water with Xeriscaping Techniques
May 19, 2015 In recent years, people have been urged to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. So the ubiquitous water bottle now seems to be permanently attached to our hands, our work desks and even in our vehicles! But what about the plants in your landscape -- don't they need to stay hydrated, too? If you buy bottled water for drinking, you know how that expense adds up over time. And if you have lots ...Continue Reading -
The Benefits of Landscaping
May 14, 2015 While most people spend 90 percent of their time indoors, most of us are still undeniably drawn outside to soak in the sights and sounds of nature. There’s just something about the sunshine, green grass, pretty flowers, sweet fragrances, and animals that make the outdoors relaxing and rejuvenating. Do you have a nice outdoor space to retreat to at your home or business? If not, it’s something ...Continue Reading -
Boost Curb Appeal with Water Features
May 7, 2015 Water features not only enhance your existing curb appeal , they also create tranquil places of respite for you and your visitors. The Grounds Guys® have some surprising ideas for you to add a water feature to your landscape regardless of budget or property size constraints. These artistic water features will command attention and boost your curb appeal: Pondless Waterfalls Also called ...Continue Reading -
Be Creative with Flower Bed Design
March 24, 2015 Don't settle for a ho-hum flower bed design this year. Whether you are a home or business owner, cookie-cutter landscape designs strip neighborhood and commercial yards of individual personality and creativity. So resolve to liven things up in your home or business garden this spring with some splashes of creativity that set your landscape apart from the rest. The Grounds Guys® know that you are ...Continue Reading -
Tips to Get Your Yard in Tip-Top Shape for SPRING
March 19, 2015 Spring has sprung, which means summer is just around the corner. It’s almost time to fire up the grill, jump in the pool, and kick back outside with family and friends. But, before you can do this, you have to roll up your sleeves and get the backyard cleaned up and ready to go. To help you do this, here are some tips and tools to help you have your backyard in tip-top shape this S.P.R.I.N.G.: S- ...Continue Reading -
Boost Curb Appeal with Edging & Trimming
March 17, 2015 A perfectly manicured landscape needs attention to two little details that can transform a ho-hum yard into a real attention-getter: edging and trimming. If you overlook these tasks, your yard will lack the finesse that distinguishes a sharply defined landscape from one with a blurry curb appeal. Take it from the landscape professionals at The Grounds Guys® -- lawn trimming and edging is just what ...Continue Reading -
The Ins & Outs of Irrigation
March 3, 2015 Your plants may be unwittingly perched on a tightrope when you water them. If you water them too much, you tip the balance one way and risk drowning their roots -- literally. But if you tip the balance in the other direction by under watering them, they "crash" -- a botanical term for severe wilting because they lack water. (Crashing isn't exactly a comfortable thought for human tightrope walkers, ...Continue Reading -
Tools & Techniques for Successful Pruning
February 19, 2015 The Grounds Guys® can help you pack a one-two pruning punch by sharing our professional insider's knowledge of tools and techniques. Properly pruned, the trees and shrubs in your yard will boost your home's curb appeal by forming a healthy framework that showcases your home as well as other landscape plants. But if you don't prune your plants properly, you may do more harm than good by increasing ...Continue Reading -
Pruning Rose Bushes: Easy as 1, 2, 3
February 17, 2015 Roses are known for many things. They are a simple way to show someone you love them by sending a dozen or two on holidays or anytime you want to say you care. Roses are also a great backdrop for special family photos or framed artwork to decorate the walls of a home. And who can forget the distinct scent that rose buds offer to any home or landscape! But probably the number-one way roses impact ...Continue Reading -
Unleash Your Creativity with Ornamental Pruning
February 12, 2015 A little nip here and a little tuck there can transform your shrubs into botanical garden wannabes. If you have an artistic eye and a creative touch, you can elevate utilitarian pruning to ornamental masterpieces. Whether your preference is for a formal look or you want a whimsical touch, your garden can be a custom-designed reflection of your personality that greets your guests before you open ...Continue Reading -
Handling Fertilizers with Care
February 10, 2015 Everyone can benefit from a little extra “push” to be and look his or her best. Lawns are no different. When property owners feed their lawns with the right amount and type of fertilizers, they push their lawn and plants to grow and thrive. Fertilizing your lawn and plants is a great way for you to feed soil, provide extra nutrients, enhance the texture of blades of grass or leaves of plants, and ...Continue Reading -
First Aid for Frostbitten Foliage
December 18, 2014 Before heading out into the cold, you probably bundle up yourself and your family with a jacket, scarf, gloves, toboggan, and warm shoes and clothes. After all, nobody wants Jack Frost nipping on their nose or freezing their fingers or toes! But what about your outdoor shrubs and plants? Sometimes those once landscape beauties are forgotten and Jack Frost starts nipping at their buds and stems ...Continue Reading -
5 Simple Steps to Winterizing Your Yard
November 6, 2014 With the passing of warm summer days and the chilly days of winter just around the corner, the last thing homeowners are thinking about is caring for their yard. But they should be! Now is the perfect time to prepare your lawn for the cold, dormant days of winter so it will spring to life when warm weather returns. Remember these five easy steps from The Grounds Guys to make winterizing your lawn ...Continue Reading -
Watering 101: Tips for All Lawns
October 10, 2014 Your garden needs water to stay green, but many common habits are quite wasteful. Water conservation is essential to ensure clean water remains for indoor use, including cooking, cleaning and personal hygiene purposes. The Grounds Guys® offers the following water conservation tips to maintain a green lawn and reduce water waste at the same time. Keep your eye on the weather. If it rains the day ...Continue Reading -
Low Water Landscaping Around the US
October 2, 2014 Far too many homeowners plant gardens that aren’t ideal for their region. It’s an easy mistake to make, especially if you put achieving a certain look above water conservation. What you need is low water landscaping ideal for your region. Follow these guidelines to help you maintain a healthy lawn and garden based on where you live in the United States, and check out the Water Sense Water Smart ...Continue Reading -
What Local Water Restrictions Means For You
September 5, 2014 During a drought, the state or local government may establish outdoor water restrictions. If the state establishes baseline rules, the local government may enact further restrictive measures if deemed necessary. Learn more about what local water restrictions and bans mean for you. Why Restrictions are Put in Place You may initially be upset at the idea of water restrictions, but it’s very ...Continue Reading -
Enhanced Curb Appeal
September 4, 2014 In life, a first impression is everything. So why should your house be any different? When friends, family or guests arrive at your home, the first impression should make a statement. If you’re looking for a creative, inexpensive way to make a statement, try enhancing your walkway with these landscaping projects. Stepping Stone Path A stepping stone path is a great way to enhance your walkway ...Continue Reading -
5 DIY Serene Water Features
August 28, 2014 Your backyard is your own oasis, a place to escape and relax after a long day at work. The soft splash of a fountain will bring life and motion into your backyard. So, take one weekend and make your backyard even more relaxing by installing a water feature. Remote Waterfall A remote control waterfall is the perfect solution for a backyard that needs a touch of ambiance. They’re easy to customize ...Continue Reading -
Decorative Mowing Patterns
August 13, 2014 Mowing your lawn is essential to keeping a clean cut and fresh looking yard. If you’re looking to take your mowing to the next level, you can try a few decorative mowing tips that will definitely impress. The most common patterns are stripes, diagonal lines, and checkerboard patterns. They may sound complicated, but decoratively mowing your lawn is not as difficult as it may seem. Stripes The ...Continue Reading -
Low Water Landscaping Across America
August 6, 2014 Far too many homeowners plant gardens that aren’t ideal for their region. It’s an easy mistake to make, especially if you put achieving a certain look above water conservation. What you need is low water landscaping ideal for your region. Follow these guidelines to help you maintain a healthy lawn and garden based on where you live in the United States. Low Water Landscaping for the Northwestern ...Continue Reading -
Landscape Ideas to Enhance Your Yard
April 23, 2014 Every neighborhood has "that house." You know the one - picture perfect with immaculate landscaping, off-the-chart curb appeal and an overall ooh-la-la feeling. We all agree that "that house" can ultimately enhance the look and feel of an entire neighborhood, but what if ooh-la-la, picture-perfect landscaping just isn't your style? Your friends at Grounds Guys® believe that home landscaping can ...Continue Reading -
Rejuvenate and Maintain Lawns: Tips for Spring Lawn Care
March 31, 2014 Spring is here! That means warmer temps and a seemingly brighter sun. That also means it's time to rejuvenate and clean up a yard that has more than likely been a little neglected during the fall and winter months. Have no fear. The Grounds Guys® have some great tips to help you manicure your yard. Your lawn will be the envy of the neighborhood! Remove Debris Besides covering lawns, fallen leaves ...Continue Reading -
Feed Your Lawn with Proper Fertilization
January 27, 2014 One of the most important things you can do for your lawn is to feed it with properly scheduled fertilization applications. These feedings differ depending on the time of year: Late Winter/Early Spring Lawns wake up hungry in the spring. Feeding your lawn in the late winter or early spring months strengthens roots and gets it off to a good start before the heavy growing season. If you had ...Continue Reading -
Aerating and Dethatching
April 30, 2013 Fall is the normal time for aeration and dethatching, but if your lawn looks patchy and tightly packed after a harsh winter, performing the process in the spring restores the look of the yard for the rest of the year. Aeration involves driving cores or spikes into the ground to bring submerged soil to the surface and introduce fresh air to the lawn. The process helps to reduce soil compaction. ...Continue Reading -
Spring Cleaning for Lawns
April 26, 2013 It's time to dust off the dried grass from your work boots and grab your gardening hat to get ready for spring cleaning your lawn. Preparing your lawn for the year isn't nearly as strenuous as giving your home a thorough once-over. Start your spring shake-down by looking for any straggling snow piles. Spread the snow out into a thin layer so that it disintegrates quickly or shovel it off the lawn ...Continue Reading -
Top Reasons for Proper Pruning
April 11, 2011 Pruning is a gardening practice that is frequently misunderstood and incorrectly practiced. All too often gardeners wait until a plant has outgrown its intended space before they decide to prune. Other gardeners incorrectly view pruning as an annual spring ritual that must be done -- sometimes when it is not needed. Here are the four main reasons pruning is necessary to maintain a well-manicured ...Continue Reading