Florida is one of just a few states that are home to palm trees. According to the Department of Biological Sciences, the state is home to 12 native species and dozens of imported varieties. Some can be very fast growing and require significant care to keep them healthy and in good condition.

When most people think of palm trees, they envision the majestic royal palm featured in a wide variety of films and TV shows. They’re majestic, stately, and healthy trees are beautiful to behold. They can reach heights of up to 80 ft. in urban settings with a canopy spread of up to 25 ft., but Floridians grow an amazing number of species that includes coconut palms.

One of the more interesting aspects of palms is that they will automatically shed dying fronds at a rate of approximately one per month. It’s a simple task to dispose of the downed fronds, but it can be dangerous for anyone unfortunate enough to be on the ground when one falls. Damaged or dying fronds should be removed whenever they’re observed and coconuts harvested before they fall on pedestrians or structures.

Palms can tolerate salt spray, withstand high winds, and weather a hurricane. They can also be prone to mineral deficiencies and diseases so it’s imperative that they’re fertilized appropriate to the soil in which they’re planted and that they’re inspected for diseases and insect pests. Palms also have specific water requirements that can be met with an irrigation system.

Palms typically don’t have very deep root systems. The root balls don’t branch much or expand like ordinary trees such as maples and oaks. That trait can put them at risk of tipping as they attain more height. Owners of palms need to be vigilant about trees that exhibit leaning tendencies.

Palms are one of the most beautiful of trees, with some living to be 100 years old. They grow well in urban environments and their root growth habits means they’re less likely to damage sidewalks, pathways and other paved areas. With regular care and maintenance, they can provide shade and visual interest for many years to come.

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 have 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

Edging is an extremely useful tool within the landscape. It clearly delineates the line between flower beds and lawn and provides a clear barrier to keep visitors out of certain areas. It facilitates the creation of crisp lines for a well-groomed landscape and prevents grass from entering flower beds, while working to keep mulch or gravel from straying out of bounds.

Edging can take multiple forms, from simple trench types to luxury paving stones. The method and material will be dictated by its primary purpose and personal preference. Most edging is function-based, but some types known as beauty edging are offered entirely for their aesthetic value.

No matter what the purpose, edging should complement the existing landscape. Much will depend on whether the individual is seeking a smooth blending of shades or a splash of color to draw attention.

Variety of Options

Edging is offered in heavy-duty plastic, wood, brick, steel and masonry. Options are available for those that prefer an informal look and those that want a very formal style. Edging can be low and flat or wide and high.

• Plastic edging is flexible, easy to install, and highly affordable.
• Metal edging is much like the plastic variety, lasts longer, but is far less flexible.
• Brick is long-lasting, available in a wide range of styles and colors, provides a uniform appearance, and can be used to customize a design.
• Concrete edging is offered in pre-formed, ready to use sections. It can be installed as-is or custom designs can be created.
• Stone is versatile, can be used in conjunction with mortar, and equally applicable for formal and freestyle appearances.
• Wood is an affordable option and works best for straight lines. Wooden edging typically lasts about 10 years and is most often used when an informal appearance is desired.

Every edging type requires preparation and specific installation for it to be effective and the work involved can be considerable. Edging is one of the easiest and most effective ways to create lines and borders within a landscape and satisfy the aesthetic desires for any property.

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 have 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

The tasteful addition of rocks is an easy way to update the entire appearance of residential or commercial properties. There are dozens of types of rocks in multiple sizes that can be used to provide color, contrast, and texture. Rocks also make a long-lasting, low or no-maintenance groundcover or mulch.

Choosing the right rock

It’s important to choose the right rocks for the job since they’ll last for many years. Rocks and stones can lighten or darken an area. Some complement specific types of landscapes, but aren’t appropriate for formal gardens and grounds. The materials can also be utilized to highlight a specimen plant, create a centerpiece, start a rock garden, or border a backyard pond.

For those with container gardens, rocks provide a solid and colorful base upon which to place urns and other planters. Rocks offer an adaptive way to address drainage problems or areas in which water restrictions are in effect. Rocks and stones are one of the most versatile tools in a landscaper’s repertoire.

Decorative Options

Property owners can choose from decorative options that includes river rock, pea gravel, decomposed or crushed granite, and lava rock with its bold and brilliant colors. Marble, basalt and quartz chips are also available, along with polished pebbles in multiple colors and sizes.

The spectrum of stones and rocks offered for today’s landscaping needs run the gamut, from pure white and black, to shades of pink, gray, warm golden brown, and multi-colored assortments. For a little added fun, consider adding a few faux rocks that glow in the dark and recharge with the sun’s rays.

Rocks in landscaping have a wide variety of decorative and practical purposes. It’s easy to paint your landscape with rocks in multiple colors and shades that will enhance and beautify any outdoor 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 have 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

Boca Raton, FL – June 16, 2019 – The Atlantic Ocean has already seen its first subtropical storm of the year on May 20, though it didn’t transition into a fully-fledged hurricane. RCH Landscaping advises anyone that hasn’t already done so to prepare now for the hurricane season that’s already in progress.

The weather so far this year in the U.S. has been atypical and no one knows when one of the most powerful storms on the planet will come roaring out of nowhere. “Plan for the worst, hope for the best” is an adage that’s appropriate when preparing for a hurricane. In the high winds that accompany the storms, anything that can be tossed about or become airborne becomes a potential missile of destruction and injury.

Hurricanes result in a lot of vegetative debris that can block storm drains and cause significant damage to homes and businesses. It’s a good idea to fortify any loosely rooted bushes. One thing that many people forget to do is deactivate their sprinkler systems – leaving them on only places more water into an already soggy environment.

Hire a professional to take down or trim any damaged trees or limbs. The exception to that are palm trees. Removing live fronds will weaken the tree and make it more susceptible to damage, but do remove any coconuts or large seeds.

Yard furniture, decorations, playhouses and trampolines should be stored indoors. Tie down anything that can’t be moved and board up windows to minimize breaking glass. Swimming pools are a popular feature, but don’t try to drain them if a hurricane is coming. Doing so can damage the pool.

As ocean surges occur, drainage and flooding will become a major problem long before a hurricane actually arrives. Always make sure gutters, downspouts, tiles and shingles are firmly attached and free of debris. Storm drains will also need attention to ensure they’re clear.

Utilize proactive landscaping. Once the storm has passed, there will be new planting to be done. RCH Landscaping professionals can help deal with any new damage to existing plants and provide guidance about the types of trees or bushes that will best withstand the ravages of any future hurricane.

About RCH Landscaping

RCH Landscaping in Boca Raton and Palm Beach is South Florida’s leading commercial and residential landscape and irrigation company. We’ve had the luxury of providing commercial and residential landscaping to hundreds of happy South Florida clients.

Media Contact

RCH Landscaping
Phone: 561-779-9760
Email: rchlawnmaintenance@gmail.com
Website: www.rchlandscapingfl.com

People trying to sell their home hear a lot about curb appeal and landscaping is an essential element for anyone that wants to make their property more attractive to buyers. There’s a myriad of effective and inexpensive ways to make a home look more appealing when viewed from the road.

Plant Flowers

A few well-placed bursts of color will create a warm and welcoming appearance that brightens up any property. Drought-resistant plants that also have attractive blooms are a bonus. They don’t require as much care or water so they save on watering costs and are particularly popular with eco-friendly buyers.

Mulch is a Friend

Mulch has a multitude of benefits and works to present a sophisticated appearance. The use of mulch will aid in suppressing weed growth, help retain moisture for plants, and enhance soil quality.

Clean it Up

Clutter on the outside of a home is just as bad as it is for the interior when trying to sell a property. Keep the lawn mowed and remove debris and any tree twigs. Make sure to rake any dead grass areas and under trees and bushes. For those with patios, walkways and paved drives, make sure paving and stones are moss free and no cracked concrete is visible. Clean-up also includes pruning dead branches and overgrown bushes for a tidy appearance.

Hire a Landscaper

Homeowners don’t have to contract for a full-scale renovation project. Professional landscapers can help with tree and hedge trimming, repairing damaged irrigation systems, sowing grass seed in bare spots, and mulching.

Make it Happy

A property that has been landscaped looks happy and commands a significantly higher price. Even little things can make a big difference to a buyer and the strategies don’t have to be costly to implement. Ideally, homeowners should begin their efforts approximately a month before the property goes on the market. For those that don’t have the time to perform the tasks themselves or are unable to do so, a professional landscaper is an ideal solution.

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 have 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

The use of color and greenery in a yard is a basic design principle that creates a welcoming and restful environment. There are many ways to achieve the combination that includes flowers, trees and bushes. When done correctly, it provides contrast, vertical and horizontal interest, brightens up dark and shady areas, and is a design based on nature utilized by professional landscapers.

Most people think only of the green color of lawns or leaves when they consider greenery, but there’s a variety of plants that have leaves in shades of red, bronze, lime green, and purple that add visual interest to any landscape. Green has a calming effect on the senses and landscape plants run the gamut from the deep, forest green of pines and tropicals to the greenish-white of decorative grasses.

Flowers are one of the best ways to add a splash of instant color anywhere in the landscape, particularly annuals. One of the most important decisions individuals will need to make is how much time they’re willing to devote to upkeep. Some plants require a significant amount of work to keep them looking tidy, while others need very little care.

Wood mulch is an effective way of adding color that also protects greenery, nourishes the soil, and retains moisture for less watering. Crushed rock is also being used in many areas as a mulch, primarily to help retain moisture. It doesn’t provide nourishment the way wood mulch does, but it’s available in a variety of hues.

Color isn’t something that just stops at the end of the summer season in Florida. There are any number of plants, trees and bushes that provide contrasting visual interest during winter months through the color and diversity of their foliage shapes, patterns, seed pods and berries.

There’s no end to the combinations that can be designed through the creative use of greenery and color. It’s a good idea to use a color wheel for novices that want to try a little landscaping on their own. For people with large landscaping projects and little time, it’s best to call in the professionals.

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 have 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

A beautifully landscaped property is the ideal for every homeowner, but it can require a substantial amount of time, effort and money to maintain. For individuals that are short on time, they can choose low-maintenance plants.

Homeowners should take care when choosing any type of plant for their landscaping needs. While some plants accommodate the low-maintenance criteria, they may also have invasive tendencies that can ultimately result in additional work.

Groundcovers

A number of groundcovers are available. They can range from a mere 2-6 inches, while others can grow to 24 inches. Flowers are typically small, some are very aromatic, and are available for shady and full-sun locations. Groundcovers include crown vetch, creeping sedum, fescue, hosta, peppermint, and creeping thyme.

Ornamental Grasses

This classification includes varieties that mature at 18 inches in height to those that can grow to 10-12 feet tall. They typically have unique or unusual looking “flower” heads and foliage can be green, reddish, variegated and golden yellow. Some spread slowly, while others can grow aggressively, and they’re often used in areas where soil erosion is a problem. Some varieties are feather reed grass, ribbon grass, and fountain grass.

Shrubs

Some shrubs remain relatively small, while others in the category can be grown as small trees. They may produce flowers, fruits eaten by birds, and foliage that can transition to red, yellow, orange and reddish-purple. Some examples are tree peony, smoke tree, and beautyberry

Trees

Some of the most popular low-maintenance trees are smaller specimens that grow from 20-35 feet tall, but make a big impact. These include hawthorn, weeping cherry, Ben Franklin tree, juniper, Japanese red maple, and miniature fruit trees.

Flowers

Low-maintenance flowering plants provide a splash of color in the landscape and attract birds, bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. The foliage remains after the blossoms are spent, typically die to the ground at the end of the season, and include canna lilies, cone flowers, geraniums, and meadow sage.

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 have 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

As a Florida Landscaping Company we realize privacy is important. With the ever growing population housing is being pushed closer together now more than ever and many people are looking to hedges to obtain some privacy. Once confined to a select group of bushes, today’s property owners have a wealth of selections from which to choose, many of which flower to provide food for bees, butterflies and birds, along with shelter and resting areas for avians of all types.

A privet hedge is still the most popular, primarily due to its quick, dense growth habit. The shrub can grow up to three inches each year and provides a more formal appearance. It easily tolerates the required shearing to shape it and keep it contained to the desired appearance.

The fast-growing ficus is dense and second only to the privet as a privacy hedge. It does require a significant amount of trimming and manicuring to keep it in bounds.

For property owners that want a more tropical look, areca palms are fast growing. They have a very informal appearance and can grow up to 20 feet in height, though they typically remain smaller when used as a hedge, and don’t need trimming.

Another fast-growing bush for hedges is the cocoplum. It’s a native of Florida, can be trimmed, and is appropriate for formal or casual landscapes. It has red-tipped leaves and produces small white flowers followed by a fruit that’s popular with birds.

Surinam Cherry, also known as the Brazilian or Florida cherry, is a tall-growing shrub that can easily be kept pruned to the desired height. It produces fruit that’s attractive to birds.

Indigenous to Florida, firebush has tubular orange flowers that attract birds, butterflies, and bees, along with blackberries attractive to avians. Property owners should avoid the dwarf variety if they want a high hedge. It forms a very informal hedge and thrives best when left untrimmed.

Hedges provide privacy for humans, a sanctuary for birds, and flowering varieties are beneficial for pollinators. Depending on the species, they can be manicured for a formal look or allowed to follow their normal growth pattern for informal landscaping. Hedges help to reduce road noise, provide protection against wind, and aids in conserving energy.

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 have 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

At RCH Landscaping of Boca Raton, FL we believe nature isn’t all one size fits all solution and your yard shouldn’t be either. Property owners can incorporate different sized planting to create a cozy environment for rest and relaxation or give the appearance of a much larger space. There are a number of strategies and landscaping aids that can be utilized to avoid a “flat” looking space that’s interesting and exciting.

A trellis, arbor or fence, along with larger upright plants, adds vertical height and can provide privacy. Flowering vines can be added that will grow over structures to provide visual interest and food for birds, butterflies and bees.

Elevation is a key component that can be accomplished with hanging baskets, raised planters, and pots placed on pillars. Flowers can provide an eye-catching focus, trail over the sides of a planter, or create a mound of sparkling color.

Garden pathways aren’t just for large estates. They add depth, dimension, and a straight patch can draw attention directly into a smaller garden. Larger stones are typically used for straight paths, while smaller stones are utilized in winding paths. A straight path is preferred for smaller gardens to give the impression of a larger space.

The direction in which pathways and even decking is laid can alter the perception of a yard. A pathway laid diagonally gives the impression of space and the same is true of deck planking and patio stones. The techniques make the back of the yard appear farther away.

Another effective technique is to place a burst of red or orange color at entryways with flowers. Red bricks and tropical plants with large leaves can perform the same function and create the same effect. Use cooler flower colors toward the outer borders to create a sense of endless space.

Property owners can take advantage of a centuries-old technique utilized in Japanese landscaping. For those fortunate enough to have a scenic view on the other side of their property border, the eye can be drawn to that view to give the impression of a much larger space. It’s a technique that makes it appear as if the yard is blending into the open spaces beyond the property line.

Above all else, create a focal point. It can be a slightly raised or sunken deck or patio, or even a container garden or raised planter. Specimen plants can be used, a trellis, arbor or fire pit. A professional landscaper or garden design expert has a solution for yards of every size that can accommodate a variety of budgets.

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 have 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

A butterfly garden is a thing of beauty that supplies benefits to birds, bees, butterflies, and people. Some types of butterflies feed on the nectar of any flowering plant, while the caterpillar stage only eats a certain type of plant. Monarch butterflies are one such species, so it pays to vary the butterfly garden.

For a well-rounded butterfly diet, a variety of flowering plants can be cultivated. An added bonus is that the flowers provide nectar for hummingbirds, the seeds are a source of sustenance for other bird species, and it provides food for endangered honeybees. Plants and bushes can be used to attract butterflies.

Incorporate native plants whenever possible. Florida is home to native butterfly species that aren’t found anywhere else in the world. Perennials and annuals, bushes and vines provide a brilliant splash of color and a welcome food source. Pre-grown potted flowers and flower baskets are also available in varieties that butterflies seek out.

Plant flowers in a variety of shapes and colors to attract different types of butterflies and place the plants in sun and shade to appeal to the largest number of species. It’s a good idea to plant flowers in groupings so they’re easier for butterflies to find and they look more appealing in the landscape. Taller plants attract larger butterflies. For those that want to plant their own, try these varieties.

• Zinnia
• Mexican sunflower
• Mexican petunia
• Milkweed
• Brazilian verbena
• Phlox
• Goldenrod
• Lavender
• Salvia
• Coreopsis
• Blanket flower
• Lantana
• Purple passion flower
• Cone flower
• Agastache
• Butterfly bush
• Firebush
• Almond bush
• Pagoda flower
• Plumbago

A butterfly garden provides an oasis for butterflies, along with hummingbirds, other types of avians and honeybees. They also have a therapeutic benefit for people that can provide an invigorating aromatherapy experience and the peace that comes with watching nature living and evolving in the back yard.

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 have 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