Despite their beauty, there are many popular garden plants that no one should cultivate if there’s any way that children or pets may come into contact with them. Some can cause a painful or itchy skin rash if touched, while others can result in death if the leaves, flowers or seeds are ingested. Some of the most deadly include the following.

Larkspur is a member of the genus delphinium and they provide a bright splash of color in gardens. The entire plant is deadly, especially young leaves and mature seeds. Nausea, vomiting and burning of the mouth is almost immediate when ingested. The plants can be lethal in six hours or less.

One of the harbingers of spring, lily-of-the-valley is a sweet-smelling ground cover. The entire plant is toxic, especially the leaves, and affects the heart. A single bite can cause symptoms ranging from hot flashes and hallucinations to clammy skin before coma and death occur.

Hydrangeas were popular funerary arrangements at one time. They have large, showy flowers and while the entire plant is toxic, the flower buds are especially so. Ingesting any part of the plant is like consuming cyanide.

Known as poet’s daffodil, this variety of narcissus is smaller than others and is a cheery sight in the spring. They won’t attract deer, rabbits or rodents and all parts of the plant are toxic, especially the bulbs. Even the scent from a bouquet of narcissus in a room can cause a severe headache.

Rhododendrons produce showy displays of brilliant color in the garden, but the entire plant can be deadly. Swallowing any part of the plant will cause drooling, violent vomiting, low blood pressure, and seizures and coma before death occurs.

Dozens of common garden plants enhance landscapes and few know the dangers of death that they present. Individuals should thoroughly research any plant they’re considering adding to their property to avert a deadly disaster to their own children and pets, along with others in the neighborhood.

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

Creating a commercial landscape design is a multi-step process that incorporates a myriad of factors. It must accommodate the needs of the client, be aesthetically pleasing, meet a variety of regulatory specifications, and fulfill security and safety requirements.

A commercial landscape company will work closely with clients to determine their needs and turn their vision into a completed project. It involves a variety of elements and services that combines functionality with beauty to accommodate the unique needs of each commercial space whether it’s the property surrounding a warehouse facility or an apartment complex.

A landscaping professional will visit the property to assess it and ascertain any issues that may arise with drainage, pooling or erosion. The design will factor in where trees, flowers and bushes will be planted, where parking spaces, fencing, and driveways will be constructed, and where lighting will be installed.

Elements such as where gutters and rainwater runoff will flow will be determined. A commercial landscaping company will also be able to create, install and service irrigation systems. They can assist with the planning of walkways, playgrounds, water features, and the placement of bike racks, depending upon the property. They also provide solutions for commercial property owners that desire eco-friendly elements.

Attention will be paid to existing surroundings and materials chosen to complement architecture and surroundings. Consideration will be given to upkeep of the finished project to ensure low-maintenance requirements encompassing mowing, clean-up and even pest control that are also cost effective.

Landscape design companies have established relationships with a variety of service providers that work to provide customized solutions that are tailored to the needs of clients. They have the ability to dramatically transform the appearance of properties that will also enhance and increase their value.

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

Most people think in terms of one or the other when considering a fence or hedge. Home and business owners don’t have to limit themselves to just one option. There are charming and innovative ways for individuals to combine both if they desire.

Hedges

A living hedge has a softer, more natural look. A myriad of bushes can be used to accommodate varying height preferences and to create a formal or informal look. Hedges are less expensive, offer some shade, and provide shelter for wildlife. They’re also beneficial as a noise barrier, make a good windbreak, and increase the value of the property.

The drawback is that they can require several years to reach mature height and will require work to maintain a pleasing appearance. They can also easily encroach on the property of others if not trimmed regularly and may require a permit to install.

Fences

While fences have a harder appearance than a hedge, they’re also far more effective at keeping people out if security is an issue. Fencing options are now available that are eco-friendly, almost entirely maintenance free, and can even withstand hurricane force winds. Depending upon the type of fencing, they won’t need painting or staining.

A fence will almost definitely require a permit to install. They’re more expensive, but offer a good return on the investment. Fencing offers instant privacy, security, and a barrier against sound.

Hedges and Fences

The two can be combined for the most advantageous benefits of both. The most common pairing is chain link or fencing with a wrought iron look that’s combined traditional hedge plantings. The fence is placed on the outside for security and the hedge is planted on the inside of the fence. The arrangement will keep children and pets contained in safety and the plantings will provide shade and noise barrier.

No Simple Choice

Fencing, hedges or a combination of both each have their adherents. Ultimately, the decision will be up to the home or business owner, their budget, and the primary reason for the installation. It’s best to consult with a landscaping professional that can provide advice on the different options available.

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

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

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