There are dozens of palm tree species and one to suit every need. They have a diverse array of shapes and heights, enabling them to fit in any landscape. Palms also have a range of leaf colors to add interest.

Palms run the gamut from sun-loving to shade, with varieties that can be grown in containers around the pool to those that can soar to heights of 98 ft. Some are even able to tolerate temperatures slightly below freezing and are drought-hardy, while others prefer significant amounts of water.

Coconut Palms

Tall and stately, after the age of 6-10 years they begin to produce edible coconuts. The fruits should be removed to prevent them from falling and injuring people, pets, and causing damage to fences, buildings, and vehicles. Coconut palms can live up to 80 years, can grow 98 ft. tall, prefer full sun, and need well-drained soil.

European Fan Palm

A palm that grows 8-15 ft. tall, it has a spread of 6-10 ft. and its hardy nature has made it a favorite in South Florida. It’s equally at home at poolside, as an accent piece in the landscape, and can even be grown in containers. Fronds range from light green to sliver and the palm produces small clusters of yellow flowers with insignificant fruits. The palm grows in clumps rather than single trunks and it’s able to withstand temperatures of up to minus 10 degrees Fahrenheit.

Montgomery Palm

An ideal tree for planting near pools, it has stiff fronds of feathery emerald green that form a fan shape. It’s a jaunty looking palm with a somewhat furry/fuzzy appearance that’s able to fit in small spaces with an average height of 25-35 ft. It’s equally at home in residential and commercial settings. They require full sun, plenty of moisture, and require little maintenance.

Red Sealing Wax Palms

The stems of these palms are the color of red sealing wax. They produce feathery green leaves and prefer locations that are shady and receive significant amounts of water. Highly ornamental, they’re slow growing, have the potential to reach 50 ft. in height, and have fronds that can grow five ft. long. They produce fruits that ripen to a bluish-black color, can grow in shady areas, and are resistant to major diseases and pests.

Pygmy Date Palm

This is an excellent palm for multiple environments where a smaller tree is desired. It grows 6-10 ft. in height with fronds of up to 6 ft. in length. It produces small, yellow flowers followed by tiny dates that are purple. It can be planted in containers, within landscapes, and around pools. It does require significant moisture and can need occasional pruning to remove foliage that’s old or has sustained damage from pests or disease.

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

There’s no reason to spread grass seed, add fertilizer, and water in the hope of sprouting a new lawn when adding sod is so much easier and provides a lush carpet of ready-made grass. The best time to lay sod in Florida is typically April through July. Those times allow the grass to settle and grow for an entire season before cooler weather arrives.

Sod is grass that’s already been planted and grown in soil. The grass roots are very dense and helps hold the sod together while it’s manipulated, cut, and laid down in its ultimate destination. It’s most commonly available in rolls that have been precut into one long slab and are rolled out into the desired area, but precut squares that are laid down individually are also offered by some landscapers for spot jobs.

Sod is an excellent solution for anyone that wants to enjoy their lawn immediately rather than enduring the time it takes for a seeded lawn to grow. The time sod is added will also depend on the type of grass desired. Some types prefer certain conditions to get the best start when it’s first planted, while others can be planted almost any time. St. Augustine grass, for example, should be laid when nighttime temperatures are between 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The sod will require light yet frequent watering for the first two to three weeks after it’s laid to help it set and begin growing in its new environment. Fertilizer shouldn’t be applied until at least 60 days have passed and a sodded lawn shouldn’t be mowed for at least three to four weeks.

Laying sod in the early spring or autumn won’t provide the grass with the temperatures required for vigorous growth. Roots go dormant and growth stops when soil temperatures are 55 degrees or less. Planted at the right time and with proper care, individuals can enjoy an instant lawn that will grow even thicker and lusher as the year progresses.

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

There are hundreds of places where weeds can crop up. Good weed control begins with appropriate precautions. There are numerous methods that can be utilized to minimize weed growth in lawns, flowerbeds and gardens that that doesn’t rely on chemicals.

Till the Soil

Tilling and turning the soil between plants makes it more difficult for weeds to root. It’s a strategy that should only be performed by landscaping professionals. They have the knowledge and experience to do so without inadvertently spreading weed seeds.

Mulching

In addition to impeding weed growth, mulching aids in retaining moisture for desirable plants. As the mulch breaks down and decomposes, it contributes to the health of the soil.

Landscape Fabric/Plastic Sheets

Landscape fabric is constructed with very tiny holes that allow water to flow through to the soil while blocking shoots from weeds. It’s best used in conjunction with mulch. Plastic sheeting can be laid in flower beds to block weed growth. Cutouts in the plastic allow for the planting of desirable plants in specific ways.

Edging

Using edging around plant beds and along drives and walkways prevents weeds from sending roots into unwanted areas and spreading.

Autumn Care

Many common weeds are dead by the autumn. Reseeding a lawn is one method that can be employed in the fall to help combat weeds. As the grass seed germinates and attempts to spread its roots, it will help block weeds that are trying to rejuvenate themselves and make it more difficult for them to take root in the spring.

It’s essential that the seeds from weeds not be allowed to be disseminated to sow themselves in other locations. The best way to accomplish that is by eliminating them before they have time to flower and spread or by burning stalks. A single dandelion has the ability to produce 15,000 seeds every year and they have a high germination rate.

A thick and healthy lawn will reduce the growth of weeds through the simply expedient of crowding them out. Groundcovers are also an option to minimize weeds. The truth is that weeds exploit any open area. There’s no way to completely and permanently prevent weeds, but they can be significantly reduced.

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 encompasses much more than simply planting a few flowers or trees. It’s an investment in a business that increases its value, presents a positive appearance, and has the ability to attract new customers.

Color affects people in a positive way on an emotional and psychological level. It’s the color of renewal and growth, both of which commercial enterprises want to cultivate to potential customers and established clients. Properly landscaped grounds invite people to stop and come inside. Green in all of its many shades is a cheerful color that makes people feel good, and by extension, good about the business.

The first thing any potential customer will notice, whether it’s a small business or a corporate complex, is the exterior. Commercial landscaping draws and directs the eye across the grounds and to the structures. Curb appeal isn’t just for residential dwellings. If the grounds of a commercial property don’t look inviting, individuals will have the same feeling about the entire property and business.

Commercial landscaping factors in the natural features of the land, the best type of plantings for the soil, and irrigation systems to meet soil and plant requirements. It also includes performing needed maintenance on a regular basis, removing any damaged limbs, trees or other plantings, and enhancing building entrances. Even small updates and improvements can make a big difference in the way customers perceive a business.

Managers and owners often equate the aesthetic appeal of a commercial property with the appearance of the structures it contains. While that’s an extremely important aspect, a pleasing green environment has been proven to boost employee productivity, improve workers’ overall health, and attract new customers.

Commercial landscaping is a specialty that requires careful planning and execution. It’s best left to a professional landscaping company that has the knowledge, experience and expertise to transform commercial properties into showcases that will work to retain current clients, attract new customers, and encourage productivity.

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 lush, green outdoor environment requires water, but ensuring that lawns and plantings obtain the liquid they need can be expensive and result in unintended consequences that include pooling, puddling, runoff, and erosion. There are a variety of ways to control water consumption ranging from irrigation systems to landscaping.

One way to control water consumption is by installing plants that have low water requirements. A variety of trees and bushes provide beauty and shade, while offering flowers that are attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds and fruits that attract song birds.

Flowers such as bougainvillea, moss roses, living stones and blanket flowers require less water than most and bloom readily in beds for a splash of color. Many also have dense root balls that won’t be easily uprooted in the event of heavy rains. Mulching will help hold moisture longer and impede evaporation for less watering.

An irrigation system makes any watering task easier. Today’s systems are programmable to manage the delivery of water. They provide the right amount of water at the correct time for efficiency and savings in time and money. The best time to water is early morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.

A properly landscaped property will go a long way toward avoiding problems with drainage that can result in unwanted runoff that wastes water and deprives plants of the moisture they need. Landscaping for controlling water consumption can include a variety of methods that also provide attractive features and interest in residential and commercial areas.

One way is to use rocks in low spots to create a “rock creek.” Perforated pipes can be installed that channels water into the ground rather than letting it pool. Another technique is creating a rain garden that captures moisture for less watering.

With the proper landscaping, anyone can have lush, green grounds without spending a fortune on watering costs. The installation of metered irrigation systems eliminates water wastage and the time-consuming task of watering. A landscaping professional can design and create a complete eco-system that controls water consumption in an efficient and cost effective manner.

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

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

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

Hurricane season officially begins in June and it’s incumbent upon every homeowner to prepare their garden for a worst-case scenario. Everyone should begin by performing an inspection of their property to check for dead and damaged tree limbs that can result in significant damage to houses and outbuildings.

Trees

Dead trees should be removed and don’t forget to check for shrubs that may be loosely rooted. If you have palm trees in your yard, don’t trim them or remove the fronds unless the fronds are already dead to avoid weakening the tree. You’ll also want to remove any large seeds or coconuts.

Drainage

Drainage is always a problem from rain, even if a hurricane doesn’t make landfall. Make sure your storm drains are clear of debris. Check gutters and downspouts, clear them of debris, and ensure that they’re securely attached to the structure. If there are any loose shingles or tiles on the home or garage, have them repaired. Don’t drain your pool, as it can result in structural damage from the storm.

Yard Items

When you know a hurricane is coming, be sure to remove and store anything in the yard that could become loose, blow away, and become a projectile. That includes doghouses, wind chimes, lawn ornaments, BBQs and fire pits, lawn furniture, and playhouses. If an item can’t be stored inside, use tie downs.

Power off

Turn your sprinkler systems off to avoid the potential of adding more water to a landscape that will already be soaked and loosen root systems of trees. Plan ahead when creating a garden and landscape environment by installing plants that have a dense root system.

Turn off the power. Downed lines can cause dangerous electrical surges that can damage any device from water heaters to air conditioners. A power surge can also cause serious and costly damage to breaker boxes and even start a fire.

Be prepared

Download a reliable weather app to mobile devices to stay informed. Remember that cell towers are often damaged or downed in a hurricane and communication may be difficult. Most importantly, be safe. Personal possessions can always be replaced and gardens replanted.

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