16 Feb 2018

By seowerkz Gardening

Tips for Properly Spacing Outdoor Areas

As one of the top landscaping companies out there, we at Greenside are all about advance planning when it comes to your home and lawn care. Especially when considering a brand new landscaping design, such as a new spring look you’re putting together this winter, it’s important to take the appropriate time and lay out all the relevant elements early on.

With that in mind, and especially as we sit in a winter period that’s perfect for planning, let’s look at a few bits of advice we can offer for proper sizing and spacing your outdoor space.

Walk Around

The first and most important step here is to walk around all your important areas, starting with the transitions from indoors to outdoors. This journey is an important part of your space, particularly if you regularly entertain outdoors and bring food or other items back and forth.

For starters, you want to arrange things logically – if you cook often, you don’t want to have the patio on the other side of the house from the kitchen, for instance. From here, consider all the other logical elements of how people move in and out: Whether there are any tripping or vision hazards, how pets will handle the transition, things like that.

Check Your Views

Another important factor to keep in mind is the view from your kitchen and other important indoor areas. You don’t want indoor dining guests to be staring at a barbecue from their indoor view, for example – consider the ambiance of both inside and outside together.

Keep Comfort In Mind

In many cases, homeowners make the mistake of underestimating the space they’ll need for a deck or patio. Some people build them to fit a space that isn’t yet filled with a table, chairs or other vital elements of the patio. This is an area where you want space to stretch out and chat, and when you’re designing it, you should shoot for more space than you think is necessary.

For more on properly spacing your landscaping design, or to learn about any of our services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

03 Feb 2018

By seowerkz General

Where a Landscaper Brings Value

At Greenside, we’re proud to provide you the highest quality landscaping and lawn maintenance services. From basics like lawn fertilization up to detailed planning for a full-on landscaping renovation, our experts are here to help your outdoor areas stand out.

Why should you hire a local landscaper for all your big project needs? Here are several specific services that a professional landscaper can help provide.

Analyzing Your Site

For starters, we offer comprehensive consultation services where we can break down your space and help you understand what’s possible with it. Our experts have the talent to read the details of your space and figure out how they can bring out the best areas of focus.

Design and Idea Generation

From here, it’s all about generating ideas – and professional landscapers like ours have tons of those. We’re trained to view spaces within the scope of our industry, and our experts will help you come up with everything from a conceptual design to a final blueprint. We provide solutions that answer your true needs and wants within a landscaping area, all while addressing the characteristics of the ecosystem properly.

Construction and Budget Planning

We can all have ideas about a design, but actually making the idea into a buildable plan is part of what a landscaper is here for. The professional landscaper is the link between what your mind can imagine and what can be practically put into play.

In addition, it can be easy to let our imaginations run wild and exceed our budget when it comes to big landscaping projects. Understanding the costs that go into this process is another bit of expertise that our pros bring to you – we can get you exactly the design you’re looking for without running up your costs.

Contractor Liaison

A landscaper also has great relationships with contractors, and these relationships can be vital during the construction phase of the project. Without them, you could be all turned around trying to line up the details of your construction.

For more on what a landscaper brings to the table, or to learn about any of our landscaping services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

16 Jan 2018

By seowerkz Landscaping

Landscaping Tips for Smaller Spaces

As one of the top landscaping companies in the business, we at Greenside have done high-level work on a variety of yard spaces. From gigantic, multi-acre lots down to tiny, compact spaces, our experts are here to help you get the beautiful yard and aesthetics you desire for your home.

When it comes to these kinds of smaller, more compact spaces, landscaping can be a bit of a different challenge than for a standard or larger yard. Let’s look at a few tips we can offer in terms of planning and executing a beautiful landscaping project in a smaller yard.

Assess Your Space

We know space is smaller, but we have to also consider other characteristics. Is the ground wet or dry, and is it flat or rolling? Is the area mostly dirt and soil, or are there lots of rocks around? Is the space symmetrical?

While plants will obviously be vital down the line, you shouldn’t consider them first. Instead, think about the functionality of the space – big spaces can be more forgiving of errors, so you’ll have to be diligent.

Plan Flow

Once you know the topography of your area, you’ll begin to form a plan regarding how the landscape will dictate design. One of the most important elements here is flow – how will people get in and out of the space, and how will you move through it as you tend to various plants and other landscaping items? Plan movement well in advance so you don’t have to make costly changes down the line.

Consider “Hangout” Spaces

Every square foot is vital in a small space, and you don’t want people to feel cramped. Once you’ve decided the flow of movement in the step above, also consider where you and others will be able to rest and hang out – after all, you want to be able to enjoy this beautiful landscaping from time to time.

Select Materials and Plants

Finally, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty. First, consider hardscape elements like patio and wall materials – you’ll generally need less of these in a smaller space, so you can spend a bit more. It’s also time to choose your plants, which bring the true life to your space. Consider any horizontal limitations you have given the small space – consider working vertically if space becomes a concern.

For more on planning landscaping in a smaller space, or to learn about our yard cleanup or any of our other services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

03 Jan 2018

By seowerkz Landscaping

Using Garden Planters During Winter

Winter is in full swing, but even for those living in a snow climate like Utah, that doesn’t mean you have to completely abandon all landscaping elements. Consider an item like garden planters – if these are made of a solid material, you can absolutely leave these out for the entire winter season and create a great aesthetic for outside your home, particularly if you have vertical coverings in some areas.

At Greenside, we’re here to help with this sort of outside-the-box thinking. Let’s go over a few ways you can spice up your design and make garden planters the foundation of your winter landscaping efforts.

Low and Anchoring

A low, shallow container in the garden, perhaps on a patio wall pillar, is a great focal point for the garden. It’s great for virtually anytime people are outside, without standing out too much or blocking any other elements. Consider plants like coralbells and poppies to offer a variety of foliage and texture.

Mix Highs and Lows

Summer is a great time for high plants in garden planters, and some of these can remain during winter. You want to combine these with mid and low plants that will drip over the side, like ivy or vinca. Look for ways to vary up the colors and textures here, and infuse the look with a few flowers whenever the weather permits temporarily.

Herbs and Willows

A great way to add the kind of height we discussed above is by using pussy willow branches, which offer both height and interest. Consider complementing them with herbs like chive, sage and even parsley where appropriate.

Cool Spring, Hot Colors

We’re a ways away from spring at this point, but it’s never too early to think about what you’ll have in store once the thaw rolls around. Most expect a cool spring, which is perfect for planters. Consider daffodils, hyacinths, and other bright flowers to make the cool season really pop and stand out.

For more on garden planters, or to learn about lawn fertilization, yard clean up or any of our other landscaping services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

15 Oct 2017

By seowerkz Gardening gardening tips, good gardening

Why Bees are Valuable in the Garden

While it’s understandable that many people are afraid of being stung by bees, this fear keeps some from recognizing their undeniable importance to Mother Nature and even our daily lives. Bees are pollinators, vital to many of the most important crops, and their presence can be a significant factor in an improved garden.

At Greenside, our landscaping experts can speak to you about the effect of bees on the garden. Let’s go over some basics about their benefits, plants they love and tips to attract them to your garden.

Bee Basics

There are numerous crops that depend on bees and other pollinators for continued life. This extends beyond the home garden – in farming, some of the plants that depend on bees are used to feed livestock and keep the entire operation running. Crops that depend on bees and other pollinators include apples, pumpkins, almonds, pears, blueberries, melons, plums, cotton and more.

Unfortunately, though, the US has lost over 50 percent of its managed honeybee colonies in the last 10 years. This is a frightening trend that could have major effects in the future.

Plants Bees Love

There are several plants that will easily attract bees to your garden:

Butterfly weed
Coneflower
Poppies
Clover
Black-eyed Susan
Bee Balm
Cranesbill

Tips to Attract Bees

There are several things you can do to attract bees to your garden for healthy reasons:

Diverse garden: Plant flowers and other plants that bloom during different times of the year. This will help attract both bees and other important pollinators. Choose trees and plants that vary in height, color and size.
Single flowers: Single flowers are great for providing food and nutrients for bees in a very easy place for them to access.
Pesticides: Pesticides have played a big role in the decline of bee colonies, as they are toxic to bees and other pollinators. Look to other pest control options for your garden.
Color: Bees are more attracted to specific colors: Blue, yellow and purple in flowers. Look for options like lavender, daisies, zinnias, snapdragons, bee balm and nepeta.

For more on how bees can benefit your garden, or to hear about our lawn maintenance and lawn clean up offerings along with other landscaping services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

01 Oct 2017

By seowerkz Landscaping lawn, lawn care, lawn maintenance

Benefits of Organic Lawn Care

A lawn says a lot about a homeowner, and lawn care is one of our specialties at Greenside. We offer lawn maintenance, fertilization and other services to keep your grass healthy and looking beautiful.

One area we’re asked about a lot is organic lawn care, something we’re proponents of. Treating your lawn organically shows an appreciation of the natural world, and also affects several other important factors. Here are some potential benefits of organic lawn care.

Grass Health

Beneficial nutrients found in organic products help nurture roots, and also balance soil pH and good microbes. Much of what you’ll need here comes down to soil – you can collect some for testing, and this will tell you what kind of nutrient levels you need to add to get your desired result. You can then determine what the right organic fertilizer is to purchase, and any other practices you should be taking.

Family Health

Your grass isn’t the only area that can benefit from health improvements – your family can as well. Organic lawn care doesn’t feature many of the chemicals involved in standard care, including herbicides, pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. These chemicals are often applied to grass, and this can pass on to people – especially children – from here. Instead of using harsh chemicals, natural products are healthier for both the lawn and those enjoying it.

Environment

Organic treatments are also far better for the natural environment. Reducing chemical usage means that over time, less chemicals will be present in streams and runoff. Soil will be cleaner, air will be sweeter and the environment will benefit. Chemicals should only be used as a last resort.

Maintenance Costs

Finally, cost benefits are the nail in the chemical coffin. An unhealthy lawn that’s dependent on chemicals can come with high costs for maintenance since soil and the ground level isn’t truly healthy. A lawn that’s cared for organically, however, will settle into a nice pattern where much less maintenance or cost is required.

For more on why organic lawn care might be right for you, or for any of our other landscaping services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

15 Sep 2017

By seowerkz Landscaping landscape contractor, landscape services, Landscaping

Landscaper Qualities to Look For

At Greenside, our landscaping services are second to none. Whether it’s lawn care or yard clean up during the summer or seasonal planting issues in spring or fall, our experts have the expertise to help you with any and all landscaping projects.

We know we’re not the only landscaping company out there, though, and we welcome our clients to review their options when considering a landscaper – and allowing us to prove why we stand above the rest. Here are a few important factors you should consider when looking at hiring a landscaping company like ours.

Experience

In a field like this, experience and knowledge are closely related. Someone with just a few years in the business just won’t have seen as much as someone with decades of experience. How do you ensure that you’re finding an experienced landscaper? A few tips:

Web searches: These days, any reputable landscaping service will have a visible online presence. Check for things like photos, customer reviews and reviews.
Referrals: Word of mouth is another way business spreads in the landscaping game. If a friend or family member has had a good or bad experience with a company, consider their advice.
Affiliations: The kind of affiliations a company holds can say a lot about their services. Look for landscaping companies that promote horticulture education and safe, ethical business practices.

Property Assessment

Every property is different and has different needs, and the kind of landscaper you hire might reflect this. Before making any final hiring decisions, schedule a site visit for a property assessment. This will assess what kinds of services you might be in need of, and allow you to avoid paying for services that aren’t essential. You can discuss your budget with the assessor, and ask any questions you may have of a professional.

Consider Your Goals

Another thing to consider before hiring is what you’re looking to accomplish. Are you looking for some simple touch-ups, or are you undergoing a big renovation like a new swimming pool or a backyard pavilion? These kinds of decisions might affect your choice for a landscaper,

Want to learn more about what you should be looking for in a landscaper, or interested in any of our other landscaping services? Speak to the pros at Greenside today.

01 Sep 2017

By seowerkz Landscaping fall landscaping, landscaping tips

Fall Landscaping Tips and Tricks

The summer is giving way to fall, and this means it’s time to handle a few things around the home. One such task is making sure all your landscaping needs are covered before the cold winter hits, and at Greenside, we’re here to help.

Our lawn experts and other professionals will help get your prepped for all the areas you need to maintain at this time of year. Let’s look at several important steps within lawn care and landscaping to take during the fall.

Mulch

Mulching in fall is much better for plants than it is during the spring, as it helps protect roots from frost and will retain moisture if winter happens to be cold and dry. The procedure here is simple enough: Spread two or three inches of fresh mulch around shrubs and trees – look to buy mulch from home and garden centers rather than from municipal piles, which can contain disease sports. These diseases can spread to your plants and infect your entire garden in some cases.

Removal

Fall is generally not a good time for pruning – this process encourages growth in healthy plants, and this really isn’t the right time of year for that. However, don’t put your shears away – fall is great for neatening landscaping and removing certain unwanted guests before the winter. Some suggestions:

Remove any dead annuals.
Deadhead spent blooms, and cut back dead and desiccated ornamental grasses and perennials.
Lightly prune dead and dying branches from shrubs and trees.
Cut back tea roses to about a third of their height after the first frost.

Shrubs

The perils of winter can dry and split your more delicate shrubs. Here are some suggestions for protecting landscaping from the winter elements:

Hide small plants under plastic pots or buckets.
Wrap shrubs tightly in burlap.
Surround any vulnerable trees with shredded leaves for protection.

Fall Specials

The period from early fall until the first frost is great for planting trees – cooler weather and autumn rains combine to put less strain on younger plants. Additionally, many plant nurseries are under pressure to empty their shelves before winter, and may have great specials going during this period. Consider these advantages if you’re looking to do some new planting.

For more on fall landscaping tips, or to find out about any of our other services, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

01 Aug 2017

By seowerkz Landscaping green lawn, lawn care, summer lawn care

Lawn Care Tips Over the Summer

Lawn care is important throughout all the warmer periods of the year, and especially so during summer. At Greenside, our lawn experts are here to help with all areas of lawn maintenance during the hottest time of the year.

What are some home tips you can take to help in these efforts? Here are a few basic tips for each of the prominent parts of the summer, starting with early summer and ranging to late summer.

Early Summer

Here are a few areas to look at during the earliest parts of summer:

Feed: Feed lawns in the early summer to help them fight heat and drought conditions. Use a fertilizer that releases its nutrients over time, allowing the lawn to continuously benefit from this over a longer period.
Grubs: If you had a grub problem in previous years or know a neighbor has them, apply an anti-grub compound at the earliest possible time. Grubs will result in dead patches later in the summer that you won’t be able to combat.
Mow high: Taller grass blades leads to better root development, and also helps to shade soil and cool it, meaning you’ll conserve some water.
Let clippings lie: When you mow early in the season, leave clippings to help break down and feed your lawn.
Weeds: Spot-treat any weeds you see.

Mid-Summer

Deep watering: Check how water is penetrating soil, and look for it to reach a depth of between 4 and 6 inches.
Feed: Keep the lawn fed every six to eight weeks. If grass goes dormant during heat, however, wait until it regrows before feeding again.

Late Summer

Sharpen blades: A dull blade will tear your grass and create a rough, ragged edge that loses moisture more easily than a clean cut. Be sure to sharpen the blade at the end of each season.
Morning watering: Especially as heat builds up over summer, look to water between 6 and 10 AM for the best water retention.
Weeds: Continue to spot-spray weeds whenever they crop up.

For more tips on summer lawn care, or for any other landscaping considerations, speak to the pros at Greenside today.

01 Jul 2017

By seowerkz Landscaping Landscaping, landscaping project, new landscape

How to Plan Your Next Landscaping Project

At Greenside Landscaping, we’re here as your primary assist for landscaping projects large and small. Whether it’s a smaller item like proper greenery planting or a bigger project like a new pathway installation, our experts will help you from start to finish with materials, planning and expertise.

One of the issues we see most commonly as we get projects off the ground is a simple lack of planning. Many landscaping projects are big undertakings, and going about it improperly can cost you time and money. With that in mind, here are some common planning tips for your next big project.

Start Early

Many landscaping projects should begin being mapped out at least a couple months in advance, often up to six months in some cases. This will allow time to identify the proper materials needed, and to place any orders that require shipping if necessary. We’ve already passed this point this year, but some projects are best begun in the late winter or early spring – they can be finished before the hottest months in this case.

Draw It Out

As you get started, look to sketch out some basic design elements for your project. Consider the size of your yard and any impediments, and then move to design preferences – plants, areas of emphasis and any other major goals you have for the project. Consider whether children change your plans at all, and whether you have any drainage or plumbing issues to consider. And of course, sketching things out will help you properly budget for the items you’ll need.

Information Storage

As you get your layout completed, be sure to store it safely. Modern technology allows this to be done easily via a computer, and even if this isn’t your game, simple storage here should be easy enough. Don’t let months of planning go to waste by ignoring this detail.

Contractor

And finally, finding a contractor with the proper licenses and reputation is a vital part of any major landscaping project. Our Greenside experts can help with everything from planning to execution, and provide expertise on material selection and application.

Interested in learning more about any of our landscaping services, including lawn care or fertilization? Speak to the pros at Greenside Landscaping today.

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