Archive for Battle of the Brews


Top Gardening Trends For 2018 – Create Your Santa Rosa Xeriscape

Santa Rosa Xeriscape – The Way to go!

Water conservation has become a big deal these days in Santa Rosa and in several other cities in California, since the state has been experiencing severe drought conditions in recent years. Here, authorities have been forced to implement specific regulations and water restrictions in order to facilitate the conservation of water throughout the state.

Santa Rosa Xeriscape

As a result of this many gardeners and landscapers in those areas have had to improvise with their gardening techniques and have been utilizing xeriscaping to keep their gardens in tip-top shape in harsh and limited conditions.

Xeriscaping can bring a whole new meaning to your gardening this year even if the area where you reside is not as dry as others.  This technique can help you to save, spend less time watering plants and play your role in conserving water in your district.

FYI – Xeriscapes Make Things Easy For Gardeners Battling Drought

If you live in Santa Rosa or any other city in California that’s drought stricken, then you know that maintaining a healthy and well-nourished garden can be quite the task. Not only because of the harsh and conditions that can exist in some areas but also because of the many issues concerning water conservation.

This is certainly a discouragement for many gardeners as they may fear the worst for their gardens with water regulations being so strict, however there is hope. With your Santa Rosa xeriscape, all your gardening dreams can be made possible and you can still remain compliant with California’s Water Regulations. How?

Well, this particular type of landscaping is specially designed to reduce or eliminate the need for supplemental water to plants, making it easy for gardeners to maintain gardens or landscapes in the scarcity of water. Your Santa Rosa xeriscape does not have to be limited to a single look but can achieve almost any landscaping style conceivable. So whether you have a small garden or are responsible for maintaining a large landscape, using this concept won’t pose any issues with your gardening experience.

Furthermore for your Santa Rosa xeriscape, gardeners can choose from a host of attractive plants that not only show exceptional resilience to harsh conditions but also add variety and appeal to gardens.

Learn How You Can Achieve The Perfect Santa Rosa Xeriscape Following These Easy Steps

The fundamental element of xeriscape design is water conservation, making it the perfect solution for landscape designers who’re constantly searching for ways to reduce the amount water applied to their gardens and to maximize the use of natural precipitation.

Switching to xeriscaping from the more traditional way of landscaping is really quite easy and can be done by any gardener, however, whether you want to redesign an old landscape or create a fresh new, one using xeriscaping, there are a few basic principles that must be followed. These include:

  1. Planning

To kick off your Santa Rosa xeriscape project, planning is the first thing you should do, where you begin by constructing an aerial view of the site using graph paper, and then marking down North, South, East, and West.

Next, any limiting features such as trees, fences, walkways or structures should be included in plans, noting areas of full sun and full shade to help you to establish areas with different water requirements. You’ll also want to group plants with similar watering needs for most efficient water use.

It is also suggested that gardeners plot areas for seating, walkways, visual barriers, dining or play into plans; carefully constructing a section where larger plantings, such as shrubs and trees can be positioned to provide natural heating and cooling opportunities for adjacent buildings.

Lastly, study the natural contours and drainage patterns of the site to better understand the best or worst location for plants. These contours can be easily developed into terraces, which help to add visual interest and reduce soil loss and erosion.

  1. Soil Improvement

The next step to creating the perfect Santa Rosa xeriscape would be to improve soil quality on the site. In water-scarce landscapes having the ideal soil conditions does two things: it drains quickly and retains water at the same time. This is achieved by increasing the amount of organic material in your soil and keeping it well aerated.

All you have to do is to purchase some compost from your garden center to help increase the organic matter in your soil, though if you intend to use succulents and cacti in your Santa Rosa xeriscape you may want to work at achieving a leaner soil.

Adding bone meal and rock phosphate to the soil is also another way to boost soil volume and help to improve soil quality, however this is usually done with soils testing a high pH (too alkaline) and low in phosphorus.

  1. Create Limited Turf Areas

Next, you will need to reduce the size of turf areas as much as possible while retaining an area for open space, functionality and visual appeal. If you intend to plant new turf or reseed an existing lawn, it may be sensible to purchase water-saving species plants adapted to your area from your garden center. This brings us to our next step.

  1. Use Appropriate Plants

For gardeners to achieve the best results with their Santa Rosa xeriscape, they should select drought-resistant plants native to their region. The plants selected should have leaves which are small, thick, glossy, silver-grey or fuzzy – all characteristics which help them save water. It is also important to choose plants for their ultimate size which will reduce the need for pruning maintenance, especially in hot and dry areas.

Keep in mind to place plants along North and East-facing slopes and walls, that like more moisture but most importantly, it’s best not to mix plants with high and low-watering needs in the same planting area.

  1. Mulch

Most seasoned gardeners already know that mulching is a great way to promote healthy blooms and landscapes as it helps to retain moisture in the soil, prevent erosion and block troublesome weeds.

With xeriscaping, mulching is also another important aspect of the process and serves basically the same purpose that it would in any other garden. Mulch, such as leaves, wood chips, pine needles or bark should be used and placed to dress the top of soil on occasion, however, for the best results make sure that mulch is at least 3 inches thick and no areas of bare soil are left out.

  1. Installing Low Drip Irrigation

One of the main purposes of creating a xeriscape is to conserve water and to better facilitate gardens situated in inhospitable areas. Finding efficient ways in which plants can receive the water they need without overwatering can be a bit tricky but by installing a low drip or low volume irrigation system you can certainly pull it off.

This method offers the easiest and most efficient way to supply water just because it delivers water directly to the base of the plant. It also reduces moisture loss, pooling, erosion and is generally the best option when watering plants less frequently.

  1. Keep Landscapes Well Maintained

Low-maintenance is one of the many benefits of xeriscape, in fact it’s how it got its name; Where the word ‘zero-scaping’, was later substituted with ‘xeriscape’, referring to a landscape that requires zero maintenance.

Although preventing weed growth may require some attention there’s not much for gardeners to maintain when they decide to utilize this form of landscaping. Nevertheless redressing mulch on occasion and cutting turf areas moderately to allow shade for the roots can all be done from time to time to keep your Santa Rosa Xeriscape fresh and healthy.

Get Help Constructing Your Santa Rosa Xeriscape From Scratch – Look Us Up At DK Landscaping  Inc. – We’re The Best At Xeriscapes

Following tips can be one thing but when undertaking large gardening projects such as these most people will require an extra hand. Don’t get injured working without the necessary tools or spend long periods of time trying to get projects completed, call the professionals at DK Landscaping.

Producing some of the best Santa Rosa xeriscapes, we strive to incorporate creativity, professionalism and hard work into one service at a fair and affordable price.

We can help you to plan and develop the perfect xeriscape, whether it be residential or commercial. With our xeriscaping services, we offer clients assistance by helping them to choose the right plants, slope sites, mulch areas and install irrigation, this way they can avoid the hassle and save money.

Contact us today at (707) 280-3632  to get started creating your Santa Rosa xeriscape or visit our website at dklandscaping.com for more information on our services.

 

Revamp Your Outdoor Space With Help From The Expert Rohnert Park Landscapers

“The Garden Is A Love Song, A Duet Between A Human Being And Mother Nature .” 

-Jeff Cox

Rohnert Park Landscapers

Maybe you’ve just purchased a beautiful home in Rohnert Park but the outdoor space could do with a bit of perspective; Or maybe you already reside in Rohnert Park and feel like your backyard has become nothing more than a wasted space, in desperate need of a makeover.

Well, it doesn’t have to be this way, as an expert Rohnert Park landscaper can be at your door with just a call or click. Look us up at DK Landscaping Inc. as we provide the best landscaping maintenance services that Rohnert Park has to offer; We’d be delighted to come in and give you a hand with any landscaping projects that you may have in mind; We can turn the most unattractive surroundings into an area you can enjoy.

Instantly Transform Your Property – Get Started With Your Own Personal Rohnert Park Landscaper

Planning Your Project  

A landscape design is like a floor plan for an outdoor area. Basically, it serves to create a visual representation of a site using scaled dimensions. These plans also include natural elements like flowers, trees, and grass as well as man-made elements such as lawn furniture, fountains, lighting, and sheds. Sounds like a lot huh?

Well, truthfully, this isn’t something you want to skip out on, as this actually saves you time, and money while helping you to determine exactly what your project will need in terms of materials, tools, and costs.

Naturally, most people, will need professional help to plan a landscape the right way; So why not work with the best? The Rohnert Park landscaper experts here at DK Landscaping offer expert advice on landscape design plans or can even help you, by drafting a plan that works for your surroundings and the appeal you wish to exude.

Preparing The Area 

Grading the site is usually the first item to be addressed when preparing an area for the restoration or creation of a landscape. Essentially, this is to ensure a level base, that basically acts as a foundation for landscape projects. At this point, our landscaper will also have to perform an evaluation of the drainage, soil conditions and elevations for walls or steps as these are also important elements that need to be considered when creating a landscape.

We make this part easy – Our experienced team of Rohnert Park landscapers here at DK Landscaping Inc. can guarantee A-Class, landscape grading services for the best results with your landscape and also make sure that sites are completely clear of rocks, weeds and debris before proceeding with projects;

As we like to say here at DK Landscaping “ We like weeds, we like jungles”, so there’s no environment we can’t handle. We’ll bring all the necessary tools to get the job done. This brings us to our next step, soil conditioning.

Basically a big word for a product that’s added to the soil to improve its physical qualities. It is made from ‘press mud’, which is a residue of sugarcane filtration and is mainly used to improve poor soils or to rebuild soils which have been damaged by improper soil management. However, in most situations the soil conditioner minimizes the amount of imported topsoil needed for a project, resulting in overall savings for clients.

Once these important aspects are covered then you’re on your way to creating the perfect landscape; And remember, you can get all the expert help you need from our seasoned Rohnert Park landscapers here at DK Landscaping Inc.; We’re just a call away.

Check Out These Popular Landscape Designs For Modern Homes And How Our Rohnert Park Landscapers Can Make It Happen

You don’t want to overdo, but you still want your landscape to be intriguing and have variety; And to be honest, one of the most difficult aspects of landscaping your yard is finding the right ideas. This is simple – you just need the right landscape design to suit your needs. Here is a list of different landscape design ideas for backyards that you may find interesting, to help you to transition your landscape this spring.

A Backyard Design For Entertaining

This particular design is the perfect set-up for summertime activities so if you enjoy relaxing outdoors in the summer this design is ideal for you. Here are the features it includes: 

  • A large gate to bring in tables, chairs, tents and more
  • Hardscaped surfaces to place tables and chairs
  • A fire pit and other sources of landscape lighting and heat for fun after dark
  • An area to facilitate a grill or an outdoor kitchen to prepare food outdoors

A Low-Maintenance Landscape Design

Mostly used to create enjoyable, serene, outdoor settings without having to perform much maintenance, this design has features that include:

  • Xeriscaped and hardscaped areas that don’t require pruning, mowing or watering
  • Covered seating area to keep outdoor furniture in good shape.
  • Native plants, trees, and grass

A Landscape Design For A Family

With this design every family member can have their own special place to enjoy in the backyard with features like:

  • Safe play area for the kids
  • Hammock for teens to enjoy a good book on a lovely afternoon
  • Seating area for adults to soak up the outdoors and keep an eye on the kids
  • Fenced in yard for privacy and safety

With the right tools, our hardworking professionals here at DK Landscaping can make redefining your landscape, a straightforward process that only calls for a basic idea of what you are looking to achieve. Additionally, we can also help you to choose plants, materials and more to ensure your backyard meets your specific needs.

To work with our professionals here at DK Landscaping Inc. please contact us at: (707) 280-3632 or you can visit our website at dklandscaping.com for more information.

Useful Tips For Watering Your Garden

A consistent supply of water plays an integral role in the nurturing and maintenance of trees, crops, plants and flowers on a daily basis. Nevertheless when it comes to supplying a garden with water most people believe that so long as plants are watered all is well. Unfortunately this may not necessarily be true as there are many factors that affect the way trees, plants and flowers receive water. With that said here are a few insightful tips for watering gardens that gardeners can utilize in order to maximize the amount of water their plants, trees and flowers receive.

Mulching Improves Water Retention In Gardens

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Even though insufficient water can be harmful to trees, plants or flowers an excessive supply of water can practically have the same effect. So it would be safe to say that not only do gardens need a consistent supply of water to stay well maintained but they need accurately, proportioned, amounts as well.

It may seem like somewhat of a challenge to actually estimate what constitutes the the correct proportion of water that should be supplied to a garden. Even though there is not really a standard way to gauge this there are some methods gardeners can apply to make sure plants always have the water they need.

Mulching is a very effective gardening method that helps gardeners to reduce the excessive watering of gardens. This method also helps to improve water retention and soil structure so that plants don’t constantly need to be watered.

Test Soil Regularly To Eliminate Unnecessary Watering Of Gardens

Disproportionately watering gardens tends to not only be a wasteful practice but it  also causes gardeners to work more than necessary. Therefore gardeners should make it a practice to conduct regular tests on soil to determine whether or not plants need an immediate supply of water.

The best way to do this is to take a spade and push it deep into the soil. Once you pull the spade out check to see if it’s damp or dry which should give you an idea of if it’s time to water or not.

Remember though if you have clay soil it may feel damp whether it’s irrigated or not and sandy soil can feel dry even if it’s wet. So in cases like these gardeners should watch plants for when they start to show signs of water stress to determine when water should be supplied.

Some Mechanisms Can Provide An Adequate And Timely Water Supply To Gardens

Over time gardeners have taken advantage of the availability of certain tools that can help to effectively manage the water supply to their gardens. Some of these tools include automated irrigation and sprinkler systems which can not only minimize the time spent watering gardens but they can adequately supply water to plants at the required time.

Need Help With Irrigation Or Sprinkler Installation? Let DK Landscaping Manage The Job For You!

Are you are interested in installing an irrigation or sprinkler system in your garden but don’t know what to?  Well not to worry here at DK Landscaping Inc. we specialize in all your landscaping and gardening services and we’d be happy to come in and complete the installation for you.

Striving to provide the highest, quality, services to all clients we offer extremely affordable rates and we work with clients to manage any type of gardening environment. So give us a call at: 707 280-3632 or visit our website:dklandscaping.com for more information.

 

Effective Gardening Tips Part 2 – Which Type of Irrigation is Best

IrrigationIf you are a gardener, farmer or even a landscaper you understand the necessity of supplying your plants, gardens or crops with adequate water. Normally most gardeners use hoses or watering cans to water gardens but this is not always as effective because sometimes enough water might not penetrate the soil.  In addition it might not be sufficient to supply what plants really require. An effective way to tackle issues such as this is to install an irrigation system which will properly supply gardens or crops with an adequate and timely supply of water.

Different Types 

The basic concept of an irrigation system mainly entails water being obtained from a source and distributed in specific amounts equally and uniformly to each plant or crop. Different kinds used include high or micro flow irrigation, sub-irrigation, in-ground irrigation, localized irrigation and even automatic irrigation systems.

The systems mentioned are all utilized to best suit their specific purpose however the two most commonly used are the high flow and low flow irrigation systems. The first system delivers water to plants with a high flow while the latter operates with a low flow or drip.

Use A System That Best Suits Your Garden

If you are a farmer cultivating crops on agricultural land then the high flowing system would be more appropriate. With this type high water levels are used to flood and control the amount of water in each distinct field. It is also regulated by a series of slopes that enables a runoff of excess water.

With the low flowing or drip irrigation system water is transported and distributed to plants through emitters, mini rotors, micro sprays or drip lines in a dripping fashion delivering water directly to roots. Seen as a very efficient method, low flow irrigation utilizes less water and significantly reduces evaporation and runoff.

Over time methods have improved to better manage the different types of gardening done today so depending on the type of gardening that you practice, installing the type that is appropriate is the best way to ensure that plants or crops receive the water that they require.

We’re Here To Help!

If you are interested in installing an irrigation system in your garden but you don’t know what to do leave it to us we can come and install it for you. Here at Dk Landscaping Inc. we aim to provide the highest quality landscape and gardening services to clients. Our services are very affordable and we work with clients to manage any type of gardening environment give us a call at 707 217-6508 or contact us via email.

Effective Garden Tips Part 1 – Use Mulch For A Healthy Garden

In an effort to keep gardens healthy and vibrant gardeners utilize a variety of tips and techniques that serve to nurture, protect and maintain their plants and vegetables. Among these techniques  the use of mulch has been found to be one of the easiest and more common methods used to promote a healthy and consistent environment in gardens.

Generally mulching can be utilized in several different areas including vegetable gardens, flower beds, plant pots and walkway areas however it is mainly used to help in the elimination of annoying weeds and helps soil to retain moisture. Additionally it also helps to protect and stabilize plants, trees and crops.

Different Types Of Mulch

Basically there are two kinds of mulch that can be used in gardens and these are organic or inorganic mulch. Usually organic mulches consist of several different materials including chopped leaves, straw, grass clippings, wood chips, sawdust and shredded bark while inorganic mulches are mainly comprised of  gravel, stones, black plastic, and geotextiles.

Nevertheless regardless of the type applied to a garden its use is mainly the same which is to discourage weed growth and improve soil quality however organic mulches gradually improve soil as they decompose while inorganic mulches don’t.

How To Mulch

Gardeners mulch gardens for a variety of reasons but depending on the reason there are certain tips that should be applied if this technique is to be done properly and is to work effectively.

Mulch To Be Rid Of Weeds

For instance if mulch is being used to eliminate weeds there are two important tips gardeners should remember if it is to be executed accurately. The first tip would be to place the it on soil that has already been weeded and the second would be to lay it down on soil thick enough to discourage new weeds from reappearing.

Normally the thickness of mulch should range from around 4 – 6 inches when applied however in areas where weed growth is not as common a layer of mulch measuring 2-3 inches should be enough to do the trick.  

Mulching Reduces The Need To Water Gardens

As a great way to keep soil cool and help plants retain moisture in dry conditions gardeners can again apply mulch to their gardens. It also reduces the need to constantly water gardens and what’s more is that in cold conditions mulching also provides considerable protection to prevent the freezing and thawing of the soil as the gradual decomposition of materials only generate minimal heat.

Additional Tips To Consider 

When using organic mulch it is important to remember that they carry a low nitrogen content therefore gardeners should first fertilize soil with a high-nitrogen product such as blood meal or fish meal to increase nitrogen levels in the soil before applying mulch.

Gardeners should also remember to keep mulch about an inch away from crowns and stems to prevent them from becoming choked or damaged and should also be careful not to allow  wet mulch to rests against the stems of flowers and vegetables as it can cause them to rot.

So protect and maintain the ideal environment in gardens by considering mulching it will save you time and promote a healthy environment for your plants or vegetables.

Need Help In Your Garden?

If you don’t know what to do or need help mulching your garden don’t hesitate to give us a call at DK Landscaping Inc. at: (707) 217-6508 we’d be happy to come and give you a hand. You can also check out our website: dklandscaping.com to have a look at the services we offer.

How Mulch Can Be Applied To Your Garden v2

To keep gardens healthy and vibrant gardeners utilize mulching and it is one of the easiest and more commonly used methods in most gardens. Mulch is mostly available in two forms organic and inorganic and is mainly used to eliminate weed growth, lend additional support to plants and to help plants retain moisture. Mulch can be purchased from any gardening supply store or can even be formulated by gardeners themselves by recycling other products or materials.

Try Mulching!

Mulch

If you mow your lawn the clippings of grass that remain can be converted to mulch. Grass clippings have a high nitrogen content and can be used to naturally fertilize plants but works exceptionally well to fertilize vegetables.

For gardeners who have enough compost this too can be used as mulch. Once it isn’t dried out compost is great for enriching soil but to ensure that it provides the necessary nutrients and remains biologically active another layer of mulch such as chopped leaves should be added to cover the compost.

There are so many different things found in and around gardens that can be used to mulch. Having said using straw or hay throughout gardens is another excellent mulching option. It has most of the benefits of other mulches while adding organic matter to soil as it decomposes.

Gardeners should keep in mind when using hay or straw to make sure it is weed and seed free when making applications. They should also ensure that it is not placed too close to stems to prevent attracting slugs and rodents.

Did you know that mulching a vegetable garden with sheets of black plastic film can do wonders? This is another neat, gardening and mulching alternative that has proven to be very effective where the black plastic transmits the sun’s heat to the soil beneath, creating a microclimate that is about three degrees warmer than a garden that does not have mulch applied.

Since the plastic film remains warm and dry fruits and vegetables are protected, they don’t rot and they are kept clean. As with other mulches it prevents weed growth and retains moisture however when using plastic gardeners should remember to punch holes so that soil can still receive air and that plants and seeds can be transplanted or sown.

As we may know some mulches come in inorganic forms as well. Gravel, stones, and geotextiles can all be used to mulch gardens. Even though some are of a hard or rough texture and do not filter nutrients into soil they still allow air and water through to the soil beneath while keeping weeds from coming up.

These are all great ways to recycle materials or products in and around gardens or homes as well as to help gardeners to save money. Mulching is great for plants and vegetables and promotes a healthy environment throughout gardens so if you haven’t already maybe it’s time you start as you don’t even have to buy it you can make it and apply it yourself.  Contact us for more information.

 

How Mulch Can Be Applied To Your Garden v1

One very useful and effective approach that gardeners can adopt to promote a healthy garden is mulching. This measure can be utilized in several areas including vegetable gardens and flower beds. The use of mulch can help to eliminate the presence of annoying weeds and helps soil to retain its moisture. Spend less time plucking up weeds, watering gardens and fighting pests when you use this technique.

Mulch For The Perfect Garden

Mulch

When mulching gardens there are two basic types of mulch that can be used and these are organic or inorganic. Organic mulches usually consist of several different,\ materials including chopped leaves, straw, grass clippings, wood chips,sawdust and shredded bark and inorganic mulches are mainly comprised of gravel, stones, black plastic, and geotextiles. Both types of mulch can be used to discourage weed growth and improve soil quality but organic mulches gradually improve soil as they decomposes while inorganic mulches don’t.

If people are applying mulch to combat weeds there are two important tips they should consider if it is to be done properly and effectively. The first would be to lay down mulch on soil that is already weeded and the second would be to lay it down thick enough to discourage new weeds from reappearing. The ideal thickness of mulch should range from around 4- 6 inches when laid even though a 2- 3 inch layer normally suffices in shady areas where weed growth is not as prevalent as it is in full sun.

Mulching is also an easy way to keep soil cool and moist in dry conditions and reduces the need to constantly water gardens. It provides protection to plants in harsh cold conditions preventing the freezing and thawing of the soil as the gradual decomposition of materials help to generate minimal heat.

Organic mulch has low nitrogen content and should fertilize soil first with a high-nitrogen product such as blood meal or fish meal to boost nitrogen levels in the soil before applying mulch. Another important thing that gardeners should take care to remember is to keep mulch about an inch away from crowns and stems. This is because wet mulch that rests against the stems of flowers and vegetables can cause them to rot. So be sure that mulch is at the appropriate distance to prevent this from occurring.

To protect and maintain the ideal conditions gardeners should definitely consider mulching as an option it is easy to apply, saves time and encourages a healthy, nurtured, environment throughout any garden.  Contact us for more information.

 

Hardscape Ideas for Lawn Landscapes

In creating gorgeous landscape designs people tend to go above and beyond in seeking to create and achieve the look they want. There are a variety of techniques that can be used to not only enhance but to give an elegant finish to any landscape or outdoor space.

Landscape

Bring Elegance To Your Landscape With These Hardscape Ideas

One very effective technique used to achieve the perfect finish to any landscape is Hardscaping. When speaking about hardscaping it refers to the structural inanimate features used and incorporated into a landscape to add a stylish and sophisticated appearance. These features can include anything from decks and walkways to edging and ornamental features and can be formal or informal depending on the style of your home and surroundings.

Nevertheless it is very important that varying textures be carefully considered as the texture of material/s used when hardscaping usually determines the final appearance of the landscape. Using too much or too little materials can result in a dull or cluttered finished look therefore to prevent any issues after the designed space is completed it would be best to choose no more than two or three textures of hardscape materials for projects.

Selected materials should be able to perfectly blend and complement the exterior structure of the home as well as be visually attractive. Other elements like color and drainage patterns once carefully and selectively used can and should improve the overall appearance of the home and surroundings.

Installing walkways and paths are also common elements incorporated within the hardscaping process and are used to accentuate and designate the areas in which traffic constantly travels. This is usually achieved by utilizing materials such as bricks, pavements, woodchips, flagstones, retaining walls, rocks or concrete blocks.

Different areas of the landscape may require various hardscape elements based on their purpose. For example using shredded tires painted in various colors for areas that children play or frequent. This provides a safe and attractive environment for kids who utilize outdoor surroundings for activities.

For areas used to entertain like dining or sitting areas the addition of a patio or deck accessorized with elegant furniture and decor are ideal ways to enhance and decorate big or empty areas. Water features like small ponds or fountains and ornamental accessories like a bird bath, statues or benches could also be great ideas that help to create a tranquil yet beautiful and characterized, outdoor space.

Once you have planned and designed the outdoor space that you wish to have the only thing left to do is to fill in your garden and lawn areas with the desired plants, trees or grass and proceed from there. Furthermore the addition of outdoor and garden lights will not only enhance and give ambiance to the outdoor area but provide a sense of safety and security when using outdoor spaces at night.

The concept of hardscaping really isn’t difficult to execute so long as planning is carefully and accurately done. It really gives an extra edge to outdoor spaces and surroundings while being an excellent expression of your unique taste and style.  Contact us for more information.

 

Winter Plants – Part 2

During the winter season creatures prefer to hibernate and wait until nature affords them the opportunity to venture out into warmer conditions. There are no different to us humans as we seek to make our homes warm and comfortable during the dreaded winter weather.  Your garden is certainly apart of your home and you should do all in your power to ensure it can handle winter’s fury and look its best. Vibrantly colored winter plants or even winter vegetables can enhance the life of a damp gloomy landscape.

winter plants

Know Your Winter Plants

An uncommon but very fascinating winter plant is Harry Lauder’s Walking Stick or Corkscrew Hazel.  Even though, this shrub flowers in the spring season, it is a beautiful winter plant.  This is due to its coiled and zigzagged branches. This plant tends to grow better in a fusion of bright sunlight and shade.  The branches will need frequent trimming to preserve its attractive appearance however when they fall they can resemble an overgrown untidy mesh of wood.

The Paper Birch tree displays its gorgeous yellow leaves in autumn.  However, when it gets extremely cold, its white bark provides a sensational difference to a backdrop of evergreens.  Frequently they are used during the Christmas holidays in many gardens.  The paper birch tree should be planted in deep holes with mulch to keep it damp.  Partial sunlight will be essential for this plant.

The Heather plant is another suitable winter plant. It flourishes all year round and provides attractive flowers in summer and fall.  It’s rich foliage provides a fascinating difference when compared to other winter plants.  You should plant these in winter with mulch in an area that obtains excellent sunlight.

Holly has always been linked to winter and there are 400 assortments to select from ranging from small to gigantic trees up to 80 feet.  There are various types of the holly plant to fit every garden and winter scenery.  Its vibrant berries and dense foliage make it very eye-catching.

Hellebore is another winter plant that can be obtained in a fusion of selections. When flourishing it has a cup like shape and they come in an array of colors making it easy to find a color that best suits your winter garden. This plant flourishes better in total shade.  Contact us for more information on how you can make create the perfect winter landscape.

Winter Plants – Part 1

Nature provides numerous varieties of  winter plants that flourish in cold temperatures. There are winter plants that will flourish even in snowfall and there are others that can mirror their vibrant colors from the icicles hanging from your home.

winter plants

Winter Plants For A Breath Taking Scenery

One of the well-liked winter plants is the Camellia.  This evergreen flourish from fall to early spring.  With its brightly colored rose like flowers this plant provides a breathtaking difference to a sombre winter scenery.  Camellia should be sowed in an area that have some sun but not too much

The winter-berry which is related to the holly and loses its leaves in fall is a great plant to have this time of year.  You and your loved ones can enjoy the  vibrant red berries that come into their own.  The berries attract the birds during this time which is a sight to see and the birds will be happy for your blessings as well.  You must plant the seeds during the fall in a small frame, then you can transplant them to fertile damp soil in the spring.  However it is a slow growing winter plant, with its germination taking about 2 to 3 years.

Paper Maple has ringlets of copper colored bark flaking off all over and this constructs a pleasurable image both on the plant and while the leaves lay on the ground in all their splendor.  During fall the green leaves change into a fascinating cinnamon shade and the plant grows in sunlight perfectly.

Red Twig Dogwood is an old-time golden boy as the color of the plant is sustained all year round.   The boldness of the plant’s color relies on the sunlight it obtains. This is another incredible addition to consider in your garden during winter.

Firethorn is lasting and it has an appealing view all year.  It has little bunches of glistening white flowers in spring and vibrant shiny green leaves the rest of the year.  The little pea like berries can be either orange or yellow in color and these can survive until long after fall is over.  The seeds should be sowed in the fall in a cold frame then transplanted to properly drained fertile earth in the spring.

If you want the best in lawn maintenance and advice contact us as DK landscaping.  Our team of experts will help you give your garden the nutrients and the proper care it needs to survive and remain lush.