Installing a new landscape is exciting as individuals look out upon their environment and envision all the beauty and activities they can enjoy. A new landscape is a delicate environment that requires some specialized care for it to grow and flourish. Proper watering is one of the most important elements, but it has to be performed carefully.

Irrigation

If a programmable irrigation system has been installed, the professionals can set it to provide the appropriate amount of moisture at the right times. The irrigation system will deliver different amounts of water in each area to accommodate the needs of different plantings.

Watering By Hand

The process is trickier if individuals are watering the landscape on their own. Smaller landscapes also benefit from an irrigation system. Watering by hand should be performed at night when it’s cooler to avoid evaporation. For lawns, individuals shouldn’t let the top ½ inch of soil dry out until the grass is at least 1 inch in height.

For those using a hose or a sprinkler that attaches to a hose, the landscape will need to be watered every day for the initial 2 weeks following planting – unless a substantial rain is received. After the first month, watering can be reduced to 2 to 3 times per week. Apply about ¾ of an inch of moisture per watering session.

New flower beds also need moisture. Pelting them with a stream of water from a hose will accomplish little other than to damage plants. The best option is a trickle or soaker hose that gently delivers moisture at the soil level.

Overwatering

One of the biggest mistakes individuals make when watering their new landscape is overwatering. Doing so increases water bills unnecessarily. Too much water at one time won’t be able to soak into the soil to benefit plantings. Instead, it simply pools, puddles, and creates runoff onto driveways, sidewalks and the street.

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

Commercial landscapes provide aesthetically pleasing environments that are attractive to clients. It’s also beneficial for employees and has been proven to increase productivity. A well planned and designed landscape can be a distinguishing and identifying feature for a business. The following are some of the most common commercial landscape mistakes.

Unqualified Professional

It’s imperative that business owners hire a landscaping company with the experience and extensive knowledge required to install a landscape. Unqualified professionals leave companies vulnerable to safety and security issues, along with potential lawsuits. The company should have years of experience in commercial landscapes, be licensed and bonded, and have all the appropriate certifications for the work that will be performed. The company’s professionals should be someone that actually listens to what you want.

Traffic Flow

Depending upon the type of commercial enterprise, there will be employee vehicles, clients, deliveries, and even heavy trucks entering and exiting. The landscape must be able to provide convenient access to all those types of traffic and room to maneuver. The exits and entrances must be placed in a way that doesn’t interfere with the flow of surrounding roadway traffic.

Drainage

Landscapes will need irrigation and they’ll also be subjected to potentially heavy rains. Proper drainage ensures there won’t be ponding, puddling or flooding. It will also prevent areas from becoming mud pits. Even more important, without proper drainage, water can build up that will damage structures.

Lighting

Illumination is required to promote safety and security. That doesn’t mean just installing lighting that shines on the building. Landscape illumination mitigates the potential for injuries throughout the landscape and can be artfully placed. Don’t install lighting at angles that create glare.

Plantings

Flowers, trees, shrubs, and ornamental grass are all plantings that can be used in commercial landscapes for year-round interest. The same plants that are ideal for residential areas won’t necessarily work in commercial landscapes. The mature size of trees and bushes must be considered, along with their root systems. Planted too close to structures, curbs and walkways, they may cause pavement to break and heave. Plantings must also be kept clear of utility lines, transformers, and HVAC units.

Pavement Materials

Whether it’s a parking lot or walkway, non-slip surfaces are essential and areas must be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Sloped areas should be kept to a minimum whenever possible around buildings.

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 most efficient and cost effective way to water the landscape is with a programmable irrigation system that delivers an exact amount of water in different areas according to the needs of the plantings. For those that haven’t had a system installed, there are other ways to make the task of watering less tedious, time consuming, and more cost effective.

Efficient irrigation doesn’t have to be an elaborate or expensive set up. Those caring for small gardens can purchase drip/trickle irrigation or soaker hoses that connect directly to an outside faucet. Rather than spraying water through the air, drip and soaker hoses release small amounts of water directly onto the ground around plantings. They can reduce water usage by 30 to 70 percent.

Soil sensors are a great way to monitor the moisture in lawns and beds. They eliminate the guesswork of trying to determine if the lawn needs to be watered. The devices can be incorporated throughout lawns or beds to ascertain if a specific area requires water. The sensors help to eliminate over or under watering.

A spray hose attachment is another alternative. With the attachment, individuals can direct water at the plants that need it while leaving surrounding soil dry. An added benefit is that aids in minimizing weed growth.

Watering at the right time is equally important. Watering at night or early in the morning minimizes evaporation from the sun’s rays. It also helps to minimize the scalding of plants. Consider collecting rainwater and using it to water small areas and hanging baskets.

Mulching does much more than reduce weed growth. It also works to retain moisture around plantings and enables flowers, trees and shrubs to go longer between waterings.

Some professional landscapers are adding water retentive gels or granules to soil. They soak up water like a sponge and retain it where it’s available to plants. Individuals shouldn’t try to utilize this method on their own. Creating the right formula of soil to granules is a very precise science.

Individuals should also consider plantings that require less water to flourish. There are numerous options available that are aesthetically pleasing and accommodate gardeners’ desire for unique plants and brightly colored blossoms.

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

Your landscape is an investment in your property and it needs protection in the same way as your other valuables. A properly installed and scheduled irrigation system will do that in a variety of ways. The health, success and lushness of your landscape depend on getting water, in the correct amount, and at the right time. It also significantly reduces the time, money, and work required to maintain it.

Today’s irrigation systems are a marvel of technology. They can be programmed to water on a schedule compatible with local weather conditions and watering zones can be created to deliver moisture in measured amounts to specific areas. The systems are even available that can detect when rain has fallen, how much, and adjust the watering schedule accordingly. They also require less maintenance.

Health

A healthy landscape is one that doesn’t receive too much or too little moisture for its needs. An irrigation system accomplishes that and does so by saving on water costs. It supports the health of the soil, which in turn fosters the strength of plantings and enables them to survive the stress of harsh conditions such as wind storms, floods, and hurricanes.

Insects and Disease

A lawn that gets too much moisture is a breeding ground for unwanted pests, mold, mildew, and bacterial infections that can cause costly damage. Overly wet or dry conditions call to a large variety of insects ranging from fungus gnats, mosquitos, and flea beetles to spiders, fleas, and ticks. Many lay eggs underground that will repopulate the landscape later. A proper irrigation system will aid in eliminating the conditions attractive to insects and help save on fertilizer, herbicides and insecticides.

Uniform Coverage

An irrigation system will ensure uniform coverage throughout the entire landscape. Irrigation heads can be adjusted to place water exactly where it’s needed and in the correct amounts. The result is a healthy landscape that supports strong and vigorous plants.

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

Irrigation systems have evolved significantly over the years and they’re no longer inconvenient arrangements that leave puddles or end up watering sidewalks and streets. Today’s irrigation systems are programmable, can be operated from a smartphone, and even have the ability to sense if it’s rained.

Irrigation is most effective when it’s performed in the late hours of the evening or early hours of the morning to prevent evaporation and ensure that lawns and plantings receive the full benefit of the moisture. Watering at other times is a waste of money. An irrigation system can be programmed to turn on and off at the appropriate times, ensuring the most efficient use of water and thereby saving money.

Watering by hand with a nozzle or using a sprinkler head is time-consuming, creates puddling and run-off, and doesn’t ensure every area receives the correct amount of moisture. Irrigation systems use sprinkler heads that are adjustable and directional. They’re capable of delivering varying amounts of water to different areas within the landscape to meet the needs of different plants. It eliminates run-off and puddling that wastes water and cash.

Old-fashioned irrigation systems delivered water on a pre-determined schedule, even if it was already raining. A state-of-the-art irrigation system is capable of sensing and monitoring the level of moisture in the ground. It only waters when the ground is dry enough to save on watering costs. The systems can also be programmed to deliver varying water amounts based on the time of year.

Perhaps one of the best water and money saving features available with the installation of an irrigation system is the ability to combine it with drip irrigation. It effectively and efficiently delivers moisture to the root systems of plants in flowerbeds or vegetable gardens. It utilizes far less water and results in minimal evaporation.

One of the biggest expenses associated with a well-maintained lawn is the cost of watering it. Installing an irrigation system eliminates puddling and run-off from overwatering. The systems ensure that each element of the landscape has the exact amount of water required, at just the right time. The result is a beautiful landscape with a significant reduction in water costs.

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

One of the most important aspects of maintaining a beautiful landscape is ensuring it has sufficient moisture to thrive. Providing the water it needs when required can be a lot of time intensive work. It’s just one of the reasons that landscaping and irrigation go hand-in-hand.

Landscaping provides an aesthetically pleasing environment and adds value to any property. The same is true of an irrigation system. Modern systems are wonders of technology that are able to detect when plants need to be watered and can compensate for local rainfall to save property owners money.

Irrigation systems need to be installed and configured by a professional. They have the experience, knowledge and expertise to design an appropriate system, install directional sprinkler heads, program the system, and calculate the correct amount of water for different areas of the landscape. Drip irrigation can also be installed in appropriate locations.

When an irrigation system is installed, the designer will factor in a wide variety of elements. Those encompass soil types, different kinds of plantings, any areas where pooling or puddling are likely to occur, and runoff potential.

They’ll also configure the system so clients only water the soil and moisture isn’t directed to streets, sidewalks and walkways. An irrigation specialist will be able to adjust the water pressure appropriately so water is distributed in a uniform way.

Without the proper moisture levels at the correct times, everything from grass and flowers to bushes, trees and vines will wither and die. Conversely, too much water will drown them and lead to the growth of mold and mildew that can be expensive to alleviate.

For attractive and well-maintained landscapes, irrigation is a necessity. It eliminates the time and effort of watering by hand, saves water and money, and ensures the right amount of water is distributed in each zone. Irrigation ensures that every inch of properties are lush and green.

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

Irrigation is an essential element for keeping the grass lush and green at commercial sites. A green site is inviting, increases the value, and makes a positive statement about the property. Unfortunately, many managers and owners are fixated on the structures and overlook the highly-important aspect of the outward appearance of the grounds.

It doesn’t matter how well maintained buildings may appear, if the grounds are surrounded by brown grass, trees and bushes, it will make a bad impression on potential investors, renters and buyers. They won’t see the potential and assume that structures are in a similar state as the lawn. Well-maintained grounds provide a higher return on investment and it all begins with an irrigation system.

Modern irrigation systems are convenient and economical. An irrigation specialist can install a system that automatically applies the proper amount of water and at the correct time to promote the growth of strong, healthy roots. The expert will configure the system to minimize pooling, puddling, runoff, and ensure owners aren’t watering sidewalks and paved areas.

Property owners have choices when installing irrigation. Traditional irrigation systems use sprinkler heads to disperse water over the greatest amount of space and distance. They can be programmed to perform scheduled deep watering for optimal growth. Grounds that have been neglected or are dying need more careful attention until they’ve recovered.

One of the most efficient and cost-effective options is a drip irrigation system and they’re particularly advantageous for flower beds and similar areas. Water is slowly introduced into the soil directly at ground level. The water doesn’t touch leaves or blossoms, thereby eliminating unsightly water marks that can occur and it discourages the growth of blight and mold.

Automated irrigation systems eliminate the time-consuming job of watering, allowing staff to handle other tasks. The systems are economical to operate and provide the moisture needed to keep commercial properties green and inviting.

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

Landscaping adds beauty and value to your home, business, or commercial project. Many people attempt to perform landscaping projects on their own, only to discover the plants they chose didn’t flourish, overgrew their space, or required too much care. Others simply want to change or update their landscaping.

RCH Landscaping has the experience, expertise and specialized knowledge to design landscaping projects for any usage. There’s an extensive range of factors that must be considered for landscaping needs, from the type of soil to the unique and prevailing weather conditions in Florida.

People often envision certain plants in their yard, but don’t understand their growth habits. RCH Landscaping experts are familiar with all types of flowers, bushes, trees, and vines. The company can recommend the best plants to control erosion and those that are best able to withstand tropical storms, along with advice on invasive species.

All types of soil are not appropriate for the plants you may want to include in your landscaping. The soil may simply need fertilizer to rejuvenate it and provide the proper nutrients for plants. In other situations, soil may need to be removed and replaced.

The company is also expert in irrigation systems to ensure every inch of properties receive the ideal amount of water for lush growth. RCH Landscaping provides design, installation, maintenance, repairs and updates to accommodate specific needs.

RCH Landscaping can also assist in designing landscaping that includes outbuildings and decorative features from ponds and pathways to fountains and statuary. Design plans can include arbors and archways to pergolas, benches, gazebos, and screened enclosures.

The grounds surrounding homes, businesses and commercial properties make an outward statement to the world at large. RCH Landscaping can help with any re-landscaping needs to transform your outdoor space or grounds into a work of art utilizing best use practices. The company offers free quotes and maintenance plans to enhance the character of 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

Excessive rain, overwatering, and poor drainage can result in fungal growth in lawns. It can appear as a white looking dust or brown spots. A fungal lawn infection may also display as patches of gray, black, yellow, orange, red or purple areas. When wet, it may have a greasy or slimy appearance.

Preventing and treating fungal lawn infections is a multi-step process and while the average homeowner can address some problem on their own, it’s always best to call in a professional. There are multiple types of fungus and additional problems may need to be remedied.

One of the first steps is identifying if thatching has occurred. It’s a combination of dead and/or built up grass, stems and roots that are produced faster than they can decompose. It heats and dries out quickly, robbing grass of the moisture it needs. Thatch can also provide a breeding ground for fungus and insects.

Thatching can happen after extensive rains, improper watering habits, and in hot and humid climates. The wrong fertilizer, compacted ground, the wrong grass for the soil, and mowing grass too short can all lead to fungal diseases.

It’s important for lawns to be properly aerated by loosening the soil and it’s a task that should be done every 1-2 years. Motorized and non-motorized lawn equipment is available to do the job. Aeration allows water, fertilizer and air to penetrate below the surface, reach the roots, and nourish the lawn. Individuals that are doing it themselves should thoroughly water the lawn 1-2 days before aerating.

If fungus is detected in the lawn, folk remedies range from baking soda and neem oil to compost tea for small patches, but they can also damage the lawn. A lawn or landscaping service is experienced in treating the fungi that affects lawns and can apply the correct fungicide based on the severity, type and soil condition.

Lawn fungus can happen anytime, in any weather conditions, and to lawns that are well-cared for. There are numerous types of fungal infections that can damage lawns and the best solution is to consult with a specialist. They will have the experience needed to diagnose and treat the fungus effectively.

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