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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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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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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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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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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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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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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With features like lounge furniture, dining tables, TV cabinets, fireplaces, refrigerators, brick pizza ovens, sinks and even kegerators, the possibilities of creating an ideal entertaining or relaxing space in your yard are endless.(Aaron Bowles — Bowles Photography) The pandemic changed all of our lives; we adapted to altered work […]

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As property owners spend more time at home, it just makes sense to start cultivating your own produce and growing food-supplying gardens. With an array of readily available herbs, vegetables and fruits right in your backyard, you could find yourself visiting commercial grocery stores less and less. How neat it is to be able to pluck ingredients straight from your ground to then create a healthy meal for friends and family in your outdoor kitchen.

Contact RCH Landscaping For all Your Commercial and Residential Landscaping Needs

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  

Redstart Labs, Pavitar Singh (CTO, Sprinklr), Abhishek Khurana (SVP Product Engineering, Sprinklr), also participated in the round Founded in 2017, Attentive helps clients in landscaping and insurance business prepare estimates using AI geospatial tools Its platform is being used by over 200 landscapers including The MCKINLEY Group, Denver Commercial […]

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Contact RCH Landscaping For all Your Commercial and Residential Landscaping Needs

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