Plants get diseases just like humans and animals. Before deciding to add a plant to the landscape, it’s a good idea to consider the potential for disease. Some plant diseases are easily transmissible among different species and can spread throughout an entire neighborhood.

Plants that are placed in locations contrary to their natural preferences will become stressed, fail to flourish, and are more vulnerable to attack from diseases, along with a variety of insect pests. When individuals see a plant they want to add to the landscape, do some research to ascertain if it’s prone to diseases ranging from mildew and root rot to blight and canker.

Soil, Sun and Water

The soil composition in the landscape is important. Some plants require alkaline soil while others prefer soil that’s acidic. Plants that need soil with excellent drainage will develop root rot in wet and soggy conditions. The spores of fungal infection can spread among different plants and be transmitted by insects. Heat and humidity provide a breeding ground for mold, bacterial, and fungal infection. Light requirements can vary widely and shade plants will quickly wither in full sun.

Proximity

Some very disparate plants can spread disease simply by being in close proximity to each other. There are plant diseases that require two hosts to complete its life cycle. An example is cedar-apple rust. The fungal spores infect eastern red cedars and are released in the spring where they infect the leaves of apple and crabapple trees. The disease matures over the summer and mature spores are released in the autumn to infect the cedars. The same type of co-infection affects junipers and quince.

Choosing Plants

It’s critical to purchase plants that are healthy and show no signs of disease. There are dozens of plants native to the South Florida environment, while others have been introduced to the area from locations with similar growing conditions and can thrive.

White pine is a species that’s not a native, but grows well in the state. However, it doesn’t tolerate salt and shouldn’t be planted where they’re exposed to saltwater. Some plants within the same family that are introduced from abroad have increased hardiness and resistance to disease in the Florida environment.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Insects that can infect your landscape and create havoc may be your primary concern. However, there are a variety of diseases of which you need to be aware. Some have the potential to infect plantings near and far. Others can wreak so much damage that flower beds may need to be evacuated and trees eliminated if the disease isn’t identified early and control measures prove ineffective.

Diseases can affect the roots, stem/trunk or flower/fruit production. Other diseases are cosmetic in nature. While they won’t kill plantings, they can affect their aesthetic value and the appearance of your property. Diseases are difficult to identify, as some are similar in appearance to insect predations. It’s always best to seek the expertise of a plant specialist.

Armillaria Root Rot

Also known as mushroom root rot, a tree or shrub infected with the fungi may appear wilted, have little foliage, and remaining leaves look shriveled and dry. The fungus prevents plantings from absorbing water and it’s the most common fungi species infecting shrubs and trees in Florida.

Bacteria

More than 170 types of bacteria can affect plants and they can cause symptoms ranging from leaf spots and yellowing of leaves and fronds to plant wilt and death. Citrus Greening is one example. Typically found in citrus groves, it can also affect backyard citrus. Yields drop, eventually stop, and the tree dies.

Black Spot/Leaf Spot

Both types of the fungi produce black spots on the upper surface of leaves. Primarily affecting roses, it can also be found on the leaves, flowers and fruits of other plantings. It flourishes in hot, humid conditions. Black spot is the most serious disease of roses in Florida and can cause severe defoliation.

In Cercospora Leaf Spot, a small round spot appears and grows larger as the disease progresses. The center of the spot eventually turns a tan/gray color. The leaf dies and the lesions can appear on any other part of the plant.

Lethal Bronzing Disease

Affecting palms, the disease is relatively new to Florida and is caused by a phytoplasma – a unique type of bacteria. It results in a quick decline of the palm and death. There is no cure.

Mildew

Powdery mildew and downy mildew are both fungus infections that are similar in appearance The symptoms of yellowing leaves and white spots are the same, but downy mildew is more grayish colored. Powdery mildew can be anywhere on the leaf surface, while downy mildew is limited by leaf veins.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Creating a new landscape or updating an existing panorama in your backyard is exciting. With the assistance of landscape software, anyone can be creative. The consumer-based landscaping software of today has evolved considerably, is highly versatile, and has features of which you may not be aware.

There are also many price points from which to choose. It pays to do some research before settling on a specific program. Some of the less expensive versions may not have all the features you want, while high-end software can have a distinct learning curve to overcome. However, they’re an excellent place to begin your landscaping journey.

Digital Property

Depending upon the software, you can scan an image of your property into the software. You can drag and drop different types of trees, bushes and flowers, along with hardscape items that includes homes, outbuildings, driveways, swimming pools, and patios. The finished product will be a digital image of the existing property from which to work. Some also provide 3D views and a virtual tour.

Forecasters

Especially useful are features that provide a growth forecaster so you can see how your choices will appear over time as they mature. It’s easy to see if a tree will overgrow its boundaries, produce too much shade, block a view, or interfere with utility lines.

Some software provides shade forecasters that enable you to see where shadows from trees and buildings will fall at any time of the day and throughout each season. Others will even give you an estimate of what the landscape costs will be.

Disadvantages

Landscape design programs can’t provide an accurate account of irrigation needs or how an irrigation system should be laid out. They also can’t tell you what type of soil you have, which will affect the type of trees and plants you can grow successfully.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Anyone with a patch of green knows how easy it is for weeds to appear in their lawn and flowerbeds, no matter how hard they work to eliminate them. Most people consider a weed to be a wild plant, but even cultivated species can earn the designation of weed if it’s growing where it’s not wanted.

Prevention is essential, as seeds can be carried great distances by the wind, birds, and other wildlife. Any soil that’s been disturbed or lacks mulch is fertile ground for weeds to take hold. The quicker that property owners detect weed growth, the easier it will be to prevent a major infestation.

Biologicals

This is a method that utilizes living plants to suppress weed growth rather than eradicating it. Groundcovers are an excellent solution for large spaces. There are groundcovers that will grow in virtually any soil, many of which have blossoms that attract pollinators that include bees and butterflies.

Chemical

It’s easy to obtain herbicide sprays for home use that kill multiple types of weeds. However, the chemicals are dangerous to children, pets, and the individual performing the application will need to take precautions to prevent the spray from making contact with their skin. Another disadvantage is that some chemical weed killers will also kill desirable plants if the applicator isn’t careful. Granular herbicides that target lawn weeds are also available.

Mechanical

The only tool individuals may need for mechanical elimination of weeds is a shovel so they can dig them up. Mechanical methods also include simply pulling up the offending growth. The best method is digging. While a great number of plants proliferate through seeds, others do not. Many weeds spread through the growth of underground rhizomes. These types of weeds are especially difficult to eradicate.

Environmental

Mulching is one of the easiest ways to prevent weed growth in flower beds. It’s environmentally-friendly, enriches soil, and conserves moisture. Crushed stone and gravel are another mulching alternative that’s effective and can be used to create stand-out beds.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

When most people think about landscaping their properties, they’re focused on the plants with little to no consideration for hardscapes. The features are essentially manmade aspects that can add to the enjoyment of outdoor spaces and make the environment more attractive. One of the most important questions to answer before beginning any landscape project is whether the finished project will reflect a formal or informal look.

Hardscapes can encompass a wide range of items such as walkways, fountains, statuary, and retaining walls, along with decks and patios, swimming pools, outdoor lighting, gazebos and more. Hardscapes also consist of stone, gravel, pavers, concrete and wood. They add interest to the landscape and in larger environments are generally intended to provide a traffic pattern for traversing the landscape. That doesn’t mean that smaller landscapes should be bereft of hardscape features.

People don’t like to step on living plants and hardscapes should be created that recognize that. Pavers, concrete and gravel can create flowerbeds that are completely unique and unconventional. Small stones and crushed rock are effective mulches. Plants work to soften the impact of hardscapes and greenery can be chosen with leaves or blossoms that emulate the shape of hardscapes.

For landscapes that are already highlighted with gravel, boulders or crushed stone, that “natural” look can be complemented by planting small trees or low-growing junipers. Consider tucking a flowering plant here and there among the hardscape to create a burst of color that continues the naturalistic theme.

It’s important to note that stones, crushed rocks, and other types of mulches can change the pH of the soil. It’s a consideration that will need to be taken into account when choosing plantings. Planning a combination of plants and hardscapes is a task that’s best suited to a professional landscaper. The professionals are cognizant of soils types, plant species, and can design a landscape that’s beautiful, functional, and complements architectural styles.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

There are small and simple jobs of landscaping that people are able to handle themselves with no problem such as mulching or planting a tree, shrub or flowers. However, for more extensive projects, unless an individual has skill or experience in that area, a DIY project can quickly go awry. There are pros and cons to a DIY project, that includes the following.

Budget

A DIY project is always going to be less expensive than hiring a professional and individuals often have the assistance of spouses, children or friends to help save on costs. A professional landscaping company is more costly, but they always have the manpower required for the job to complete it quickly and efficiently.

Exercise

Landscaping is good exercise, gets people out in the fresh air, and working with plants is therapeutic. A potential drawback, however, is if an individual has asthma, allergies or some other type of respiratory difficult.

Age

Older individuals may feel up to doing their own work, but health concerns, stamina and physical strength can be an obstacle.

Tools and Equipment

Depending on the project, specialized tools or equipment may be required that the average person doesn’t have. Many types of equipment can be rented, but individuals may also be faced with a learning curve in their operation. Landscapers have the tools and equipment needed.

Knowledge

The average individual doesn’t have the knowledge required to determine if a plant is invasive or will thrive in any specific location. Landscapers are knowledgeable about different plants, their unique needs, the best location for a specific plant, and its ongoing care.

Time

It’s always going to take more time to complete a DIY project than when hiring a professional. What individuals estimate as a few hours project can easily require multiple weekends to finish. Combined with that is the time investment required for maintenance and upkeep. A professional landscaping company makes short work of the entire process, from installation and maintenance to removal if necessary.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Flowers and shrubs always do best in their native habitat, but there are dozens of plants that can be successfully grown in other areas if climatic conditions are similar. Not all plants enjoy the humid conditions found in South Florida.

However, there are a number of annuals that will thrive and don’t mind the humidity and heat at all, though some do require partial shade and well-drained soil. No matter what type of flowers or shrubs are planted, gardeners will need to be aware that powdery mildew is always a potential problem.

Coreopsis

The daisy-like flowers of coreopsis feature bright, yellow blossoms. They bloom throughout the summer and are low maintenance. They attract bees, butterflies, and birds like the seeds. They grow from 1.5-4 ft. tall. Hybridization has given rise to colors of red, orange, pink and white.

Marigolds

Available in various shades of summer color, yellow, orange, and those that are highlighted by red, brass and copper, marigolds don’t mind the humidity. They offered in heights ranging from 6-24 inches to accommodate any area of the garden. The long-lasting flowers require little maintenance.

Sunflowers

There are sunflowers to meet any garden need. They’re available in varieties ranging from heights of 12 in.-15 ft. Pollen-free varieties have also been developed. Sunflowers are available in traditional yellow, shades of red and burgundy, orange, bi-colors and even stunningly beautiful white, along with single and double flowering varieties that require little maintenance.

Wishbone Flowers

The bi-colored flowers are offered in a myriad of hues and look like miniature gloxinias. The blooms are long-lasting and plants typically grow 6-12 in. in height. It can be placed in the summer garden and will even thrive as a houseplant.

Zinnias

Zinnias are available in every color of the rainbow except blue, including solids, bi-colors, and even a creeping style. Depending on the variety, they can grow 6-8 in., 1-3 ft. and there’s even a variety that can attain heights of up to 4 ft. They can be used for cut flowers, are low maintenance, and long-lasting.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Owners of commercial properties can use landscaping to add value to their business. It aids in attracting customers, increasing employee productivity, and improving safety and security. Eco-friendly landscaping will save money on utility bills, time and maintenance. It’s important to hire a professional that can provide advice and guidance, along with installation and maintenance services. The following are major dos and don’ts of proper landscaping.

1. Planning

Proper planning will influence every aspect of the landscape Don’t attempt any landscaping project without a plan. Doing so will almost guarantee a haphazard look that’s unappealing and will detract from the property’s value.

2. Mature Growth

Don’t forget when selecting trees and bushes that they will become larger and spread as they mature. Consider how tall trees will be, their canopy width, and growth habit. Bushes will spread and become taller and wider.

3. Eliminate Undesirables

Trees and shrubs that have overgrown their space, become damaged, or have fallen prey to insects or disease should be eliminated. They present a potentially dangerous environment for people, buildings and equipment. They obscure views that can be a security risk. Don’t be afraid to remove them.

4. Big or Small

Commercial property owners will need to decide if they want to install large or small versions of trees and shrubs. Planting younger, smaller trees and bushes allows everyone to watch them evolve as they grow. Planting larger versions provides more immediate benefits.

5. Linear Lines

Don’t be afraid to deviate from linear plantings. Trees, bushes, flower beds and walkways can all be designed along curved lines to add interest and minimize monotony.

6. Curb Appeal

Do consider the curb appeal factor when landscaping. It adds value to the property and attracts customers.

7. Maintenance

Don’t forget the maintenance element. Some plants need frequent trimming and shaping, while others require minimal attention. The landscape quickly turns into a nightmare if the time or money to maintain it isn’t available. A landscaping professional provides valuable assistance in creating a low-maintenance landscape.

8. Multiples

A few specimen plants can add visual interest, but consider multiple types of the same trees, bushes or flowers in a bed. Odd numbers are best and are aesthetically pleasing. Do remember that a single tree or bush can get lost in the overall landscape and creating swaths of color is more visually appealing than a single color.

9. Weeds

Don’t forget to keep track of the weeds. A landscaping company has multiple techniques that can be used to significantly minimize weed growth, but there’s no way to eliminate them all.

10. Budgeting

Part of the planning process is knowing what type of budget is available for the installation phase, but it’s also critical for ongoing care and maintenance. Even low-maintenance and eco-friendly landscapes will need trimming, mulching, fertilizing and other services. Those funds will need to be budgeted for each year.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

One of the most important aspects of landscaping is the installation of an irrigation system. It’s a facet that’s highly overlooked in the South Florida climate. It’s true that the area receives significant rainfall, but plants and trees need water during drier months too, but in different amounts. There are numerous reasons why an irrigation system is an essential feature in the landscape.

Seasonal Needs

There are times of the year when rainfall isn’t as plentiful and an irrigation system will ensure that adequate moisture is provided over the changing seasons.

Type of Plantings

Water requirements vary among plantings. Lawns are a good example. St. Augustine Grass is a common lawn covering and it’s more water-dependent than other species.

Conservation

Irrigation systems are an important way to maintain a beautiful landscape while conserving a critical natural resource. Programmable irrigation systems deliver the correct amount of moisture for the season. Monitoring systems with sensors “know” when water is needed. They automatically apply it and at the correct time of the day to maximize efficiency and minimize the amount of evaporation.

Efficiency

The sprinkler heads of an irrigation system are adjustable. They’re able to apply different rates of water to different areas throughout the landscape. It ensures that numerous types of plantings can be enjoyed in the landscape and moisture application is customized. It also prevents wastage because driveways, streets and sidewalks aren’t being watered along with the landscape.

Multiple Options

Individuals can choose wide-use watering irrigation systems, drip irrigation systems, and a combination of both. Wide-use is what’s typically utilized for lawns and large open areas. Drip irrigation systems are an ideal way to conserve water, particularly when watering flowerbeds. Moisture is delivered slowly at the ground level where it’s need most and prevents flowers from being crushed or drowned from the output of traditional sprinkler heads.

Savings

The efficient watering of landscapes minimizes water waste, which will save money on water bills. It also saves individuals a considerable amount of time and effort over water by hand, which is the most inaccurate and inefficient methods to employ.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760

Most people are surprised to learn that South Florida has a dry season. The entire state is typically characterized as a tropical environment 365 days a year. October through May marks the official dry season and in January, the state can receive as little as 1.5 inches of rainfall.

A lawn is more than just the green space that surrounds homes and businesses. It’s an eco-friendly way to reduce erosion and glare, buffer sound, cool the environment, and filter contaminates. A lush lawn provides curb appeal and increases home values. However, the road to a healthy lawn is dependent upon proper care throughout the year, especially during the dry season.

Fertilizing

Different types of grass have specific care requirements. The most common turf grass in South Florida is St. Augustine grass. The final fertilizer application should be timed for early fall in South Florida. The amount of fertilizer will depend on if the lawn is established or newly created, the type of soil, pH levels, and overall health.

Mowing

Many homeowners keep their lawns too short. The average lawn should be maintained at a height of about three inches. Lower grass heights open the door to insect pests such as nematodes and doesn’t let the grass root as securely.

Short lawns are less resistant to drought. Only 1/3 of the grass height should be removed at one time. To keep a lawn at three inches, mow when it’s about 4-4.5 inches tall. Be sure to keep lawn mower blades sharp so they cut cleanly rather than tearing the grass. Let grass clipping dry before removing them.

Irrigation

During the dry season, irrigation is called for when the grass doesn’t easily recover. It begins to have a blue-green appearance, or it starts to wilt. About ¾ of an inch is usually sufficient during the dry season when turf grass isn’t growing as vigorously and should be applied on an as-needed basis.

Weeds and Insects

Controlling weeds and insects is a year-round task. There are different types of weed killers that can be applied, but it’s essential that homeowners know the difference. There are weed killers for actively growing weeds and herbicides for pre-emerging weeds.

The same is true for insect control. Applying insecticides can actually make a lawn more susceptible to damage and disease. It’s always best to consult with a lawn care professional with the knowledge, training and experience to provide expert guidance.

RCH Landscaping is a full-service landscape company based in Boca Raton, Florida. We design, install and maintain Commercial and Residential landscapes all around Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and The Palm Beach areas. Our team of highly skilled landscape technicians has an undisputed track record of creating and maintaining beautiful commercial and residential landscapes all over South Florida.

Contact RCH Landscaping Today for a Free Estimate

561-779-9760