Archives for Commercial Landscaping

TCU Facilities Keeps the Campus Grounds Beautiful … Through Drought and Storm

The Importance of Planning in Landscaping Design

The Importance of Planning in Landscaping DesignLandscaping design is a crucial aspect of creating a visually appealing and functional outdoor space. It involves careful planning and consideration of various elements to achieve the desired results. Planning plays a vital role in shaping the overall outcome of a landscaping project.

 

One of the main reasons why planning is important in landscaping design is that it helps create a cohesive and harmonious outdoor space. By carefully considering the layout, color schemes, and the placement of various elements such as plants, pathways, and focal points, a well-designed landscape can create a sense of balance and unity. Without proper planning, the various elements may clash or appear disjointed, resulting in an unpleasing and chaotic environment.

 

Furthermore, planning allows for efficient use of space and resources. By identifying the purpose of the outdoor space and understanding the needs of the homeowners, a landscape designer can create functional areas that serve their intended purpose. For example, proper planning can ensure that there is enough space for outdoor seating, play areas, or gardening beds. Moreover, it allows for considerations such as water conservation by incorporating efficient irrigation systems or utilizing native plants that require less maintenance.

 

Lastly, planning ensures that the landscaping design aligns with the overall aesthetics and style of the property. A well-planned landscape should complement the architectural features of the house and the surrounding environment. Whether it’s a modern, minimalist design or a lush, tropical style, planning enables the designer to select the appropriate plants, materials, and design elements that will enhance the overall appeal of the property.

 

In conclusion, the importance of planning in landscaping design cannot be overstated. With careful consideration of various aspects such as layout, functionality, and aesthetic appeal, planning ensures that the final result is a well-designed and visually pleasing outdoor space. Whether it’s a small backyard or a large garden, a thoughtfully planned landscape can enhance the beauty and functionality of any property.

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Make Your Landscape Trees a Priority During This Record Drought

Incorporating Elements of Nature in Your Landscape Design

Creating a functional and sustainable garden design is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also enhances the well-being of both humans and the environment. With careful planning and thoughtful implementation, you can transform your outdoor space into a haven that is both beautiful and eco-friendly. When it comes to landscaping design, there are a few key elements to consider.

 

Firstly, think about the layout of your garden. By dividing your space into different areas, such as a seating area, a vegetable patch, and a flower bed, you can maximize its functionality. This will allow you to efficiently utilize the space available and make the most out of your garden. Additionally, consider incorporating pathways that connect these different areas, creating a flow that is both inviting and practical.

 

Secondly, choose plants that are well-suited to your local climate and soil conditions. Native plants are often the best choice, as they are naturally adapted to thrive in your region. By opting for native species, you not only ensure their survival but also support local biodiversity. Furthermore, selecting plants that are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant will help reduce water usage and minimize the need for chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

 

Incorporating sustainable features, such as rainwater collection systems and composting areas, can further enhance the functionality and eco-friendliness of your garden design. Rainwater harvesting can help reduce water consumption by collecting and reusing rainwater for irrigation purposes. Composting is another great addition, as it allows you to recycle organic waste and create nutrient-rich soil amendments for your garden.

 

In conclusion, creating a functional and sustainable garden design requires careful thought and planning. By considering the layout, plant selection, and incorporating sustainable features, you can create a space that not only looks beautiful but also promotes the well-being of both humans and the environment. So, roll up your sleeves, get inspired, and start creating your own green oasis!

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The Main Problems in Landscape Design — And How to Avoid Them

Diversified Plantings Help Displaced Birds

A number of avian species are being sighted in areas that aren’t their native habitat. They’re also being seen in locations from which they’ve effectively disappeared in recent memory. Researchers have concluded that one of the primary reasons for this is climate change and more powerful storms that are blowing birds off course.

Flamingos and Limpkins

Two recent examples of displaced birds are flamingos in Florida and a limpkin that was positively identified in Barry County, MI. Limpkins are normally found in South Florida, Mexico, South America and the Caribbean. New York City residents were treated to a glimpse of a Painted Bunting in 1999 and again in 2015. Rarely seen north of Arkansas, Painted Buntings are a common sight in South Florida.

Diversified Plantings

It’s not just avians that are blown off course that require a diversification of food sources. Destruction of habitat continues unabated and even native species can have difficulty locating their preferred food. Planting native species in the landscape helps sustain local species and aids in supporting endangered species. South Florida’s subtropical climate offers conditions that are ideal for a great many types of plants, bushes, vines, and trees.

What to do With Displaced Birds

A great many displaced birds arrive in an unfamiliar area unharmed, but tired and in need of water and sustenance. Avians that feed on sea life will typically be able to find their own food.

Other species that consume seeds and nectar may have a little more difficulty if they don’t see plants with which they’re familiar. The birds will typically come to rest in a park or other environment that provides cover. After recuperating, they’ll typically try to return to their traditional areas. The first step is to positively identify the bird. A little research will reveal what they eat.

To assist the avians, individuals can try leaving some of the bird’s favorite food in a fairly open space where they can find it. There’s no guarantee that they’ll feed, but individuals will have the peace of mind knowing they did what they could to help a displaced bird.

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2022 Army Tenant Satisfaction Survey shows Knox Hills improving in almost every category

What’s the Rarest Plant in South Florida?

The answer is the exotic, mysterious and elusive ghost orchid, also known by its scientific name of Dendrophylax lindenii. The flower was made famous in the non-fiction book “The Orchid Thief” by Susan Orlean and in the film adaptation. It gets its name from the delicate movement of its flower petals at night, which is said to resemble a small ghost.

Limited Habitat

Known only to live in South Florida and Cuba, the plant relies on extremely sensitive wetland habitats to survive. Loss of habitat, climate change and poaching have all contributed to its dwindling numbers.

There’s only an estimated 1,500 of the orchids left growing in the wild outside of a few plant conservatories and sanctuaries, where it draws visitors from around the globe. The orchid only grows in 3 South Florida counties.

Living in Harmony

The white-flowering orchid clings to the trunks and limbs of cypress, palm and pond apple trees in a symbiotic relationship with a type of fungus. It draws sustenance from the air or the fungi, without causing harm to the fungi or the tree. The plants are almost invisible for the majority of the year since they’re leafless.

When its Bloom Time

The orchid quickly springs into visibility when rain and humidity levels are optimal, sporting multiple spikes of flower buds that will eventually unfold into delicate, ethereal and uniquely shaped blossoms. Plants are slow growing and require several years to mature. The blossoms are fragrant and the plant typically bloom between June and October before dying back to its roots. However, it has been known to bloom out of its typical season if conditions are right.

Super Ghost Orchid

The most famous ghost orchid is one discovered at Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary in July 2007. It’s been carefully nurtured and has thrived. The plant has been dubbed the “Super Ghost Orchid” for its size. It’s the state’s largest ghost orchid ever discovered.

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Contractor completes exterior landscaping work for Fort McCoy's fiscal year-2020-funded barracks project

3 Traits to Look for in a Commercial Landscaping Company

Commercial landscaping is a specialty and the quality of a landscaper’s work will directly affect the aesthetics, safety and presentation of your company. It can be difficult to identify the commercial landscaper that’s right for you and your business. There are dozens of companies that claim to be commercial landscapers. However, experience, training and expertise is always evident in their work.

The professionals are licensed, bonded and insured. The company will be able to design and install any landscaping feature desired and maintain it in pristine condition. They can perform upgrades or craft and install completely new designs if desired.

Comprehensive Range of Services

Commercial landscaping can incorporate a multitude of elements and the landscaper you choose should be able to provide the customized services needed. A commercial landscaper will be able to perform tasks ranging from mowing and providing design services to creating management plans and installing irrigation systems. Landscaping needs may include trimming trees, planting flowerbeds, turf grass care, and insect control.

Experience with Similar Projects

It’s important that the landscaper you choose have experience with projects similar to your own. Experienced and highly trained commercial landscapers are in high demand and will have provided services to other clients with similar needs. Don’t be reticent about asking for references. Doing so will also give you an opportunity to view work they’ve performed in the past.

The Company Practices Sustainability

Eco-friendly companies practice sustainability that can provide savings for you and benefit the environment, while boosting your company’s image. Sustainability can take many forms. One way is using native plants that support pollinators and native wildlife. Commercial landscapers are also able to create water conservation and management plans that saves water and money. A commercial landscaping company is able to design and create functional and beautiful landscapes that enhance the profile and reputation of any enterprise.

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What is Considered Natural Landscape Design?

Changing climatic conditions has many South Florida residents considering natural landscape design. It’s often referred to as native gardening and offers an alternative to precisely mown lawns and high-maintenance species,

Dispelling Myths

Natural landscape design doesn’t mean turning outdoor spaces into a meadow or allowing rampant and uncontrolled growth. Nor will it make homes or businesses appear unoccupied. Native plants are not weeds and natural landscaping poses no danger or threat. Natural landscapes aren’t bland. The wide range of native species enables designers to incorporate multiple colors and textures into the landscape.

Native Species

The landscape design utilizes plants, trees, gras, shrubs, and wildflowers native to a region. It emulates an ecosystem that would evolve naturally. There’s extensive variety that can be achieved, depending on the type of plants that are installed.

Multiple Benefits

Natural landscape design is more sustainable. It also enhances biodiversity, which has a positive effect on communities as a whole It supports native pollinators such as butterflies and birds. The plants used are more resistant to insect pests and diseases, meaning fewer chemicals are required that pose a threat to people and animals.

Native South Florida species also tend to have deeper root systems that help them weather storms, flooding and hurricanes. The landscapes generally produce less green waste than other types.

Disadvantages

There are some disadvantages associated with natural landscaping, depending on perspective. They have a messy appearance compared to the manicured look that’s typically cultivated. That can result in discord with neighbors who appreciate a tidier appearance or those living in communities governed by an HOA. Those elements should factor into any decision before “going natural.”. The landscapes also require regular maintenance for the same reasons as other landscape types.

Not for Everyone

Despite the benefits of natural landscape design, it’s not an option that’s necessarily right for everyone. There may be zoning ordinances that prevent certain types of plants. That doesn’t mean that individuals can’t incorporate elements of natural landscaping into their outdoor spaces. It’s best to consult with a landscape design company familiar with the technique before making any changes.

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What Can Cause Damage to Your Lawn

A beautiful lawn invites people to play, but it also requires a significant amount of work. Despite your best intentions, you can inadvertently cause damage to your lawn through well-intentioned mistakes.

Over Fertilizing

A too generous or frequent application of fertilizer weakens grass and can burn it. Excess fertilizer lays on top of the ground and washes off during rainfall or irrigation where it contaminates water sources.

Watering at the Wrong Time

Lawns should be watered in the early morning hours to mitigate evaporation. Water quickly evaporates in the hot sun before it can soak into the soil. Watering at night allows moisture to set on the grass, providing an environment for disease.

Overwatering and Underwatering

Too much water creates runoff and puddling. The soil can’t absorb the moisture quick enough. Underwatering doesn’t allow nutrients to make their way beneath the soil and to the roots where they’re needed. Grass shouldn’t be watered every day.

Cutting Grass Too Short

Each type of grass has an optimal length at which it should be maintained. When cut too short, grass blades must use stored nutrients from the roots to produce more growth, weakening the grass.

Using Dull Mower Blades

Dull mower blades rip and tear grass instead of providing a clean cut. The result is ragged edges and stressed lawns that are more susceptible to disease and insect predations.

Mowing When Wet

Grass blades bend when they’re wet instead of standing stiffly upright. Grass is more difficult to cut, contributes to thatch, and the potential for disease.

Mowing in the Same Direction

Besides creating small troughs and ruts in the soil, mowing in the same direction can result in uneven cutting due to ground topography.

Throwing Shade

Too much shade from trees, shrubs, pergolas or canopies robs lawns of the light they need to thrive. Every grass species has its own light requirements.

Thatch Build Up

Thatch is a layer of vegetative material that builds up on lawns from grass clippings and stems. The material forms a mat on the soil that makes it difficult for water, nutrients and air to penetrate. If not aerated, lawns can die for lack of nutrients and thatch provides an environment where multiple diseases can multiply.

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What to Know About Low Maintenance Landscaping

The first thing to understand about low-maintenance landscape is that the term doesn’t mean no maintenance. There will still be garden tasks to perform, but the time spent will be much less than in a traditional landscape model. Low maintenance landscapes don’t have to be an all or nothing decision. It’s entirely possible to incorporate various elements into an existing environment. There are multiple components that can be selected for a low-maintenance landscape that include the following.

Artificial Turf

Made of synthetic fibers, artificial turf withstands high foot traffic and feels like real grass. It doesn’t require fertilizer, watering, or insect control Best of all, it eliminates mowing.

Evergreens

They don’t drop copious amounts of leaves that have to be raked. Evergreens are available as trees and bushes in a variety of textures and color gradations.

Gravel and Rocks

Both elements can be used to create paths and walkways The materials can also be utilized as a ground cover, mulch to reduce weeds, or borders for flowerbeds.

Ground Covers

There are dozens of plant-based ground covers from which to choose and many have blossoms that can attract pollinators. They’re great for slopes, minimizing erosion and are effective for controlling weed growth.

Hardscape Options

These are non-plant items in the landscape ranging from statuary, firepits and patios to pergolas, water features and walkways. Simply install them and leave them alone.

Ornamental Grass

They can add interest to the environment and are a good choice for minimizing erosion. The seeds provide food and a source of nesting materials for birds. Flowering varieties attract pollinators.

Perennial Plants

It’s a good idea to start with native plants that are already adapted to the South Florida climate and thrive in the local conditions. They’re more resistant to disease and insect pests. They encompass a wide range of colors, textures and heights. Perennials return every year with no effort on the part of gardeners.

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How to Protect Your Business Landscaping from Storm Damage

Landscaping represents a considerable monetary investment for any business. Plantings
provide a welcoming and aesthetically pleasing entry to the property for customers. Trees,
bushes and flowers add value and interest to any property. In South Florida, storms can develop
at any time, creating chaos and damage to landscaping. The good news is that there are some
precautions you can take to minimize the potential for damage before it occurs.
Create Some Distance
Trees play an integral role in any landscaping project. They provide welcome shade that can
assist in reducing cooling costs, but they need to occupy the correct locations in the landscape.
Trees are one of the primary sources of damage during a storm. Keep large species away from
buildings to minimize damage from falling trees, breaking limbs and lightning strikes. Always
consider the size of the tree when it matures. Plant bushes and smaller trees near structures.
Wind Resistance
Some tree species are more prone to disease, breakage and limb loss. You’re going to want
trees in your landscape that are resistant to wind, less likely to blow over in a storm, and lose
limbs. It helps to plant trees in groups of at least 5 to maximize wind resistance. Each tree helps
protect the others.
Pruning
Trees need regular maintenance and pruning is part of that. When young, shrubs and trees
should be pruned for optimal growth, shaping and strength. New trees should be cabled and
braced to ensure they’re growing straight and establishing a strong root system. As they
mature, weak limbs should be removed, along with any that may have become damaged. If a
tree becomes diseased, its better to remove it for safety’s sake.
Drainage
Be sure your property has proper drainage. Trees can easily topple when soil becomes
saturated. Remedy any areas of the landscape where puddling or ponding are evident.

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commercial landscape

Commercial Landscaping on a Budget

Most people envision landscaping as expensive, sweeping changes to the landscape that involves heavy equipment and uprooting mature trees. It’s entirely possible to beautifully landscape commercial properties without spending a fortune. It doesn’t always involve large scale removal or installation of plants. It can encompass smaller changes or hardscaping features to enhance spaces.

Perennials For Annuals

Most people plant annuals for their splashes of bright colors. They provide vibrant interest in the landscape, but they have to be purchased anew each year and replanted. They can take a considerable amount of time and effort to maintain and may have significant moisture requirements leading to expensive water bills.

Commercial landscaping can replace annuals with perennials that only need to be purchased and planted once. They’re often more heat-resistant and drought-tolerant than annuals, which means savings on water bills. They require little maintenance and many perennials sport bright blooms that work to create an ever-changing landscape throughout the year.

Native Plants

Installing native plants produces a lower impact on the environment and typically require less care and maintenance. They’ve evolved to grow in the South Florida climate. They provide a food source of seeds, berries and nuts for birds and wildlife. Some have blossoms that attract bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

Pavers

Permeable pavers are known as a hard feature, as opposed to plants. They can be used to create pathways, patios, coping around swimming pools, and to surround retention ponds. They have a low impact on the environment and even help filter pollutants. Permeable pavers are beneficial for reducing and managing runoff.

Wildflower Gardens

Not every inch of a commercial property requires manicured lawns. Commercial enterprises can reduce costs, beautify their property, and provide a refuge for birds, bees, and butterflies by establishing a wildflower garden. It just needs to be planted once, requires little in the way of maintenance, and it’s particularly beneficial for reducing erosion on slopes and hills.

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.

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