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Elite Landscaping

Tag: landscape design

01 Nov 2022
By Mike Pasquarello Gardening, Landscaping , ,

Landscaping for the Senses: Gardens Offering Much More than Color

Throughout your daily life, you use all five senses to interact with your environment, so how can you plan your landscaping keeping that in mind? Many plants and vegetation options can satisfy more than one sense, regardless of your space or budget, and can be easily incorporated into a design.

Sight

One of the first senses that comes to mind when choosing new plantings is sight. No matter how much time and effort goes into a landscape, the usual goal of the design is beauty. And making a visual impact on your landscape can be achieved in many ways. Usually, one of the first goals when planning a garden is adding color.

When in doubt, we recommend using the color wheel to find complementary colors or other types of pairings that go well together. Keep darker, heavier colors lower than the brighter, lighter ones to ensure balance in the garden. Incorporate various size plants into your design to create movement of the eye.

A big mistake when planning a landscape is the temptation to cover every square inch with a plant. Don’t be afraid to utilize negative space when planting or, even better, place objects or decorations in the beds to break up the design. A decoration, rock, or even just an empty space can significantly impact your garden design.

Sound

The second sense you may consider is sound. Sometimes before you can even see a garden, you can hear it as you’re approaching. Garden sounds are often taken for granted, depending on your location. Nevertheless, there’s usually some noise, whether it’s the bustling noise of cars from a nearby road or soothing bird songs.

If these are not the sounds you enjoy, there are various ways you can add different tunes to the mix. A water feature is one of the most widely used additions to a landscape. Running water adds an extra element of interest for the eye and ear to your garden and also creates tranquil sounds to drown out surrounding noise.

Other sources of garden sound could be wind chimes, bird feeders, or even grasses. The sound of chimes will come and go with the breeze, while bird feeders tailored to specific birds and the soft rustling of tall ornamental grasses can bring in natural sounds.

Smell

A growing trend in gardening has been the return to scented plants and flowers in the landscape. For the longest time, the heavy genetic selection of plants for their ornamental value eliminated their aromatic qualities. This interest in the delightful smell of flowers and leaves provides choices such as lavender, gardenia, and lilac to gardeners.

However, if you find strong scents overwhelming and want something milder, there are plants for you too! For example, instead of scented flowers, you could choose aromatic foliage requiring you to touch the plant to experience the scent. This can be equally rewarding as fragrant flowers when working with a small space, or even container gardening where scents are near seating may be overpowering. In addition, there are various softer-scented options, from mint and sage to bee balm and heliotrope.

Touch

Often overlooked in the garden is the sense of touch. Usually associated with learning gardens for young children, tactile experiences rarely make it into a home landscape. Yet, plants pleasing to the touch can be a welcome addition to your space.

One example where touch can be incorporated is a pathway either alongside or between the stones, with plants like moss, sedums, or lawn ivy. Capable of tolerating moderate foot traffic, these plants can add intrigue directly to the path and provide a comfortable surface for those who walk outside the lines. Smooth-barked plants such as Crape Myrtle and American Beech also offer great sensory experiences.

Another example where touch can be effective is in a seating area. A table or patio planter can become infinitely more interesting if it includes an element of touch. Favorites like Blue Mound Artemisia or Lambs Ear can add a touch of color, texture, and feeling to your space.

Taste

The fifth and most elusive sense to engage in the garden is the one that involves your taste buds. Some people say the way to the heart is through the stomach, so why not to your garden as well? Growing edible plants in your landscape can be extremely rewarding when most of your food comes from a grocery store.

Herbs are a great example of how to bring taste into the garden and, consequently, the garden into the kitchen. Plants like basil, thyme, oregano, and mint are perfect for container or peripheral gardening. Herbs can also be a great addition to a landscape with various shapes, scents, and sizes, even if you don’t plan on eating them.

Another easy example of edibles in the garden are fruits such as apples, strawberries, and grapes. With all the seasonal intrigue of their ornamental counterparts, these plants can bring color and cravings into one space.

And last but certainly not least are vegetables. Depending upon your situation with wildlife and treatments, you may be able to integrate a vegetable garden into your landscape. In addition to feeding your family, many vegetable plants have attractive qualities other than their vegetables.

Incorporating all five senses into your landscape can drastically increase the interest and value it brings to your life. Whether a single pot, a patio, or an entire backyard, there is no area too big or small to be landscaped for the senses.

If you want more information about the best sensorial landscape designs, call our award-winning team today at 856-753-1944.

01 Oct 2022
By Mike Pasquarello Gardening, Landscaping , , ,

Fall is for Planting

The dog days of summer are now long behind us, days are shorter, and temperatures are much more comfortable. And now it’s the time of year, the fall, that is the most ideal for planting. Vegetation prepares for winter by going dormant to conserve energy for the long, cold temperatures. This reduced growth activity is precisely what helps their transplantation with little or no stress to the plant itself. When making your new choices, take advantage of the array of vibrant colors that autumn offers. The following are my three fall favorites which capture both bold leaf and berry colors:

Virginia Sweetspire:

Itea virginica (Latin) is a fall stunner with deep-red, burgundy hues as the end of September approaches. It should be planted in full sun- partial shade with a minimum of 6 hours of sun to achieve the beautiful fall color it’s known for. ‘Merlot’ is a perfect cultivar choice for the residential landscape as it only grows to a 4’ height and width. Sweetspire is tolerant of wet soils but does prefer well-drained sites. Once established, it develops a tolerance to drought and requires minimal maintenance.

Dwarf Fothergilla:

 Fothergilla gardenia (Latin) shows off vibrant, fiery colors of purple, yellow, red, and, most notably, orange. Native to the coastal plains of the southeastern United States, this species also adapts well to the Delaware Valley climate. Fothergilla prefers full sun- partial shade, and well-drained moist soils. Many smaller varieties only grow 2-3’ in height, making them perfect shrub borders in a sunny woodland setting. They also produce white bottle-brush-like flowers in the early spring providing another season of interest.

Oakleaf Hydrangea:

Hydrangea Quercifolia (Latin) possesses the largest leaves in the Hydrangea family and resembles those of an Oak tree (hence the name). They show brilliant red, orange, yellow, and burgundy shades as the fall sets in. Oakleaf can also tolerate more sun and lack of water than the other, more familiar species of Hydrangea. This shrub is another U.S. native that prefers well-drained soils and partial sun- shade. Some varieties can grow quite large (6’) so determining placement is important so as not to overtake surrounding plant material or structures. Oakleaf Hydrangea also has the other three seasons covered with exfoliating bark/spent flowers in winter, large green leaves in spring, and long white flower clusters in summer.

Fall is an encore performance of color display and the final bow for a great year in the growth cycle of many plants. Introducing them at this perfect time of year ensures their survivability to thrive and flourish for many more years to come. Visit a local garden center nursery on a brisk weekend morning and stroll the rows to see what other plants pique your interest!

01 Sep 2022
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , , , , , , ,

To Plant or Not to Plant…, That is the Question

And we have the answer-

With literally thousands of plant species and varieties available for your landscape, it is sometimes a daunting task to select the ones best suited for the space. There are multiple factors to consider before adding new vegetation to your yard. Size (growth habit), zone (hardiness), exposure (sun/shade), soil (clay/sand), water (wet/dry), and wildlife (wanted/unwanted) are the essential aspects factors to focus on when making new choices. Some initial research will be highly beneficial to help you ensure your landscape investment will thrive.

Size

All plants are living organisms that grow at different paces. Some compact, small shrubs can quadruple in size over a few years. Bed width, surrounding plants, and window heights must all be considered before planting. Most plant identification tags will give adequate spacing recommendations and specify mature heights and widths.

For example, foundation planting design should be based on a 15–18-year life span. After that, it is typically time for a landscape renovation due to overgrowth and crowding. This guideline allows plant material to have enough room for healthy growth while not making the overall initial appearance look sparse.

Zone

Our geographic region of the Northeast is divided into three specific zones which affect plant hardiness depending on temperature extremes. Certain plant varieties may not survive or thrive with low-temperature exposures.

We are zoned as follows:  6b- the central corridor of South Jersey (-5-0 F), 7a- eastern/western South Jersey and southeastern Pennsylvania (0-5 F), 7b- shore points from LBI to Cape May (5-10 F). These zones and the rest of the United States are available online on the USDA Plant Hardiness map.

Exposure

Some plants need full sun exposure, and some prefer part sun or all shade. It is crucial to be aware of your property’s sunlight patterns. Too much sun and a shade-loving plant’s leaves will scorch, while too little for a sunbather will grow sparsely with little flower production. Once again, plant ID tags specify this and the duration of the day required. Adjacent trees and buildings cast shade depending on their orientation to the sun, so that should also be considered.

Soil

Something as simple as dirt can be a very complex balance of moisture retention and organic matter. Soils with high clay content will retain water and allow it to drain very slowly, causing root systems to rot and decay. On the other hand, sandy soils allow moisture to drain too quickly, not allowing roots to capture necessary water.

Identify your soil type before selecting new plantings. Rutgers Soil Testing Laboratory in New Brunswick offers this service for a minimal fee for those without a degree in soil chemistry. In addition, they will provide instruction on necessary remediation to suit your proposed use and plant selection. For example, adding organic matter (peat moss) or sand to soils high in clay may be all that’s needed to create a better foundation.

Water

Too much or too little water is probably one of the most common causes of untimely plant death. An important factor in determining how much water is required is soil type and its ability to drain adequately. The combination of sandy soil in full sun exposure will result in the need for increased watering versus soil with clay content in a shaded environment. Investing in an automated irrigation system will make this chore much more manageable. Even remote rain sensors can be integrated into a system and regulate the amount of water supplied based on what is provided by Mother Nature.

Wildlife

Garden critters can be a double-edged sword since it’s beneficial to include plant material that attracts “wanted” wildlife instead of greenery that entices “unwanted” pests. Butterflies, hummingbirds, and chipmunks are usually welcome guests and add to your landscape’s beauty. Unfortunately, deer and rabbits can be the main culprits of missing and damaged foliage. If you live in an area prone to Bambi or Peter Cottontail, don’t fret, there are extensive plant lists they don’t like so that you can plan accordingly.

This list may seem like a lot to keep in mind, but with minimal investigation, your landscape investment will be better able to thrive for years to come. Landscaping is meant to be a therapeutic, enjoyable activity, so have fun with it, and always remember….we’re always just a phone call away if you need help.

01 Jul 2022
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , ,

The Landscape of 2022: Trends in Outdoor Living

Outdoor living continues to be a driving force behind many residential landscape projects and will strengthen throughout 2022. Big box stores and retail giants have embraced this shift over the past few years and have even dedicated portions of their facilities to keep up with the demand. In addition, the interest in innovative landscaping products to create spaces for refuge, relaxation, and entertainment is leading the outdoor living surge.

The top three sought-after landscaping trends are:

“Smart” Landscape

Technology and landscape are terms that evoke more of a feeling of conflict than compliment, but this couldn’t be farther from true. For example, residential irrigation systems can be programmed to operate based on data provided by weather stations to optimize efficiency. Rainfall, humidity, wind speed, and temperature are all accounted for to give just the necessary amount of water. Landscape lighting has the capability to adjust intensity, color, and location at a moment’s preference. Outdoor WIFI audio systems strategically placed within the landscape offer a feeling of absolute emersion in sound. Oh, and by the way, these can all be easily controlled right from the palm of your hand because “there’s an app for that.”

Health and Wellness

Outdoor living and the implementation of outdoor spaces can create areas that encourage relaxation and reduce overall stress. Healing gardens similar to those in health care facilities can be recreated on a residential scale and lead you “well” into absolute Zen. Combining plant materials that appeal to the five senses and soothing audio can evoke restorative experiences. Add to that increased social gatherings within these environments, connecting another dimension to your mental wellness journey.

Extension of the Home

Outdoor living should be a seamless blend of architecture and landscaping, reflecting style and comfort from the interior to the home’s exterior. Integrating elements such as outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and roof structures create additional space for relaxation and entertainment. Maximizing the usage time with these features is essential, especially with our mid-Atlantic region’s drastic seasonal climate changes. With interest in outdoor spaces continuing to rise, some homes for sale are listing both the interior square footage and the size of the exterior areas.

If you want to learn more about the latest landscaping trends and how we can design a beautiful outdoor respite to complement your home, call us at (856) 753.1944.

01 Jun 2022
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping, Wi-Fi , , ,

Audible Landscape: How to Incorporate Sound Into Your Outdoor Entertainment Space

Summer is here, and soon those barren wastelands of patios and decks will be alive with activity again. Grills will be fired up, furniture cushions placed, and portable stereos plugged in.  Time out… “Portable stereos?” It’s time to retire that Boom Box you’ve had since high school, purge those mounted “lunch box” style outdoor speakers, and take advantage of today’s technology. How about introducing symphony quality sound to your outdoor entertainment space? Innovative designs are gaining popularity with easy installation and control.

Top technology

Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are two words most people are familiar with and use daily. Permanent outdoor sound systems have the same capabilities to be controlled by either of these platforms using a smartphone app. Whether the streamer for the system is a simple Bluetooth connection or more advanced Wi-Fi, such as Sonos, they both can be installed on a home’s exterior. In conjunction with an amplifier, your entire audio system can remain within the vicinity of the outdoor space without any costly interior wiring or renovations. A GFI electrical receptacle is all that is needed to get this outdoor powerhouse control center up and running.

Sound quality is undoubtedly the most critical product of a well-designed system, but speaker type and placement are key. They should be in the landscape surrounding the space to create an absolute sensation of immersion. Directional speakers will deliver sound to specified areas while being considerate to neighbors’ ears. Combination 3-way speakers are also available, which provide subwoofer, woofer, and tweeter all in the same unit. Speaker durability and longevity should be considered as well. We live in a region where temperature extremes and shore salt exposure can wreak havoc on outdoor electrical devices, so speaker housing materials are very important. Coastal Source is one of the leading manufacturers of these turnkey plug and play systems and has designed them to fit any application.

Sound in an outdoor environment can enhance any experience and influence the dynamic. Installing a properly planned sound system can foster relaxing alone time or a-rockin’ party. In addition, imagine being able to control the whole vibe and tone of the space without even leaving your seat.

“Music is the wine that fills the cup of silence” – Robert Fripp.

01 May 2022
Paver walk
By Mike Pasquarello General, Landscaping , , , ,

Written in Stone

The explosion of outdoor living spaces has brought upon many new (and old) innovative materials to create these environments. Patio and wall materials have transformed to simulate natural stone and even wood products accurately. The combination of concrete, porcelain, and natural stone has blended seamlessly and added unique standout elements to these outdoor entertainment areas.

Concrete pavers

The lure of the once highly sought-after octagonal concrete pavers of 25+ years ago has long diminished and has now been replaced multiple times over. The trends in concrete pavers and other patio materials are the larger “slab” style pavers. These pavers are readily available from many well-known manufacturers throughout our area and come in various sizes ranging from 12″ x12″ to 30″ x30″. They can either resemble natural stone with ridges and valleys (clefts) or have a very contemporary streamlined, smooth appearance. One main advantage of these manufactured concrete slabs is that they are available in numerous color blends to complement any home or business’s existing palette façade.

Pavers

Porcelain pavers

The relatively new kid on the block is outdoor porcelain pavers. The thought of porcelain immediately raises the question of how durable these materials can possibly be compared to their fine China and figurine relatives collecting dust in a curio cabinet somewhere. Interestingly, they are the most durable, with a psi of 38,000. This is almost five times stronger than a standard concrete paver and even more so than most natural stone. They resemble the appearance of travertine, marble, granite, and even wood planking. At only ¾” thick, they make the perfect choice for overlay applications on existing concrete bases. These incredibly strong pavers are even suitable for vehicular applications such as driveways.

Natural stone

Created under extreme earth pressures and processes, natural stones used today have been around for millions of years. These ancient materials are what manufacturers have been striving to emulate and capture their natural beauty. Bluestone, limestone, travertine, and granite are materials that can be seen readily used in landscape projects because of their timeless beauty and enduring nature. Natural stone makes a great choice as step treads, wall caps, and countertop accents, in addition to also using one of the other options mentioned above. Each individual stone is unique in its own way, and this will never be able to be duplicated in the manufacturing process.

Stonemasons have constructed many “Wonders of the World” throughout history, which have taken lifetimes to complete. However, today’s available hardscape materials and their ease of installation will only take a fraction of the time and allow you to create a similar “Wonder of the Neighborhood” right in your own backyard!

If you want to learn more about hardscaping materials and how we can design a beautiful outdoor space to complement your home, give us a call today at (856) 753.1944, or check out the various projects we’ve created and installed for our customers here.

01 Apr 2022
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , , ,

Striving for Straight F’s: How Can You Achieve the Ultimate in Outdoor Entertainment?

Ever since I can remember, I thought that if I studied hard, paid attention, and tried my best, A’s would come my way. This couldn’t have proven to be more accurate. However, when designing and implementing an outdoor entertainment area, F’s are what we strive for. Food, Fire, and Fluidity are the main elements that deliver the ultimate “staycation” of homeowners’ dreams when brought together.

Food  

Enough said. Nothing brings people together better than an array of delicious food. The home kitchen always seems to be the main gathering area during holidays, birthdays, or parties. Why? Because people love to eat. And there’s no reason why a kitchen with all the same amenities (and more) can’t be created outdoors.

Grills, warmers, side burners, refrigerators, sinks, ice makers, pizza ovens, and even beer meisters can add functionality and fun to your patio space. Most of these kitchen structures come equipped with natural gas, electricity, and plumbing. Granite countertops, stainless steel cabinets, and drawers are also possibilities that provide beauty and convenience to your gourmet cooking experience.

Good food attracts friends and family alike. So put away those frozen hotdogs and hamburgers and prepare a restaurant-worthy spread in your new outdoor kitchen!

Fire  

Since the beginning of time, we have always been captivated and mesmerized by fire. A fireplace is typically the main focal point of a home’s family/living area and has much the same power as the kitchen to bring people together. Roasting marshmallows or huddling and talking around a fireplace hearth can easily be done right out your back door. That’s why incorporating an outdoor fireplace, fire pit, or fire element has become increasingly popular over the past ten years.

Wood, natural gas, or propane can all be used to fuel your inferno. Depending on your preference, these structures are available in kits for ease of installation or can be custom designed to fit specific needs. Natural stone, clay brick, or manufactured block and veneer are all used in construction. Whether it be warmth, utility, or just plain beauty, adding fire to your backyard will entice everyone to your outdoor space.

Fluidity  

The sound of flowing water has a calming effect which can be a tranquil addition to any area. Waterfalls, fountains, and ponds each have unique attributes in providing a soothing atmosphere. Waterfalls can be even be incorporated into swimming pools and ponds to drown out nearby vehicular traffic or an overly noisy neighbor.

Ponds can bring an entire mini living ecosystem to your property by including aquatic life and plants. Many homeowners looking for low-maintenance structures have pondless water features. These range from boulder/stone waterfalls to decorative bubbling urns spilling into underground collection basins with recirculation pumps.

Water has even made its way into built-in patio misters to keep your guests cool on those hot summer days. The introduction of moving water can transform an average outdoor space into a dynamic, relaxing environment.

A well-thought-out plan, qualified contractor, and flexible budget (of course) can blend all three of these elements. Now is the perfect time to plan your spring/summer outdoor projects and get ahead of the rush. Forget the travel agent. Create a private resort oasis and create new memories right in your own backyard instead by incorporating the 3 F’s. Give us a call to learn more at 856-753-1944.

01 Mar 2022
How Can You Choose the Right Landscaper for Your Next Project?
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , ,

How Can You Choose the Right Landscaper for Your Next Project?

Have you ever wondered if all of those titles and abbreviations after someone’s name actually make them more credible? They can. And the landscape industry is no different than any other facet of corporate America in accrediting individuals based upon education, knowledge, and experience. As a result, a select few have invested in themselves and their companies to provide better services and the highest quality products.

The following are three certifications commonly seen in the landscape realm that homeowners should consider before hiring a landscape professional.

CNLP: Certified Nursery Landscape Professionals must initially demonstrate a required body of knowledge about the nursery and landscape businesses. This education could be a degree or certification in horticulture and/or working or managing in industries such as landscape, nursery, or garden centers.

A CNLP prep course is offered to strengthen knowledge of plants (biology and management), landscaping (design and management), garden centers (sales and operations), and plant identification. The exam consists of 100-120 multiple choice questions and 25 plant identifications. Upon passing the exam, recertification is necessary every two years to obtain 24 continuing education credits within the same time frame.

APLD: The Association of Professional Landscape Designers bases its certification on experience and completed projects rather than educational curriculum or exams. An applicant must be practicing for at least two years and submit drawings, plant lists, photographs, and design objectives from three completed projects for evaluation.

APLD certified members need to go through a recertification process every three years and receive 30 continuing education credits. Founded in 1989, this is the only international certification program for landscape designers.

Landscape Architect– This is a multi-year degree Landscape Architecture program at an accredited university/college. By definition, “Landscape architecture is a multi-disciplinary field, incorporating aspects of botany, horticulture, the fine arts, industrial design, geography, and ecology.”

Landscape architects practice in various professions from designs of private residences/estates, public parks, civil infrastructure, and ecological restoration. Depending on the state where they practice, they are regulated with either a certification or licensure exam followed by yearly continuing education credits. The American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) is the primary organization these professionals are members of.

As you can see from this list, there are several certifications that can help verify the knowledge and skills that landscaping contractors have mastered. In addition, industry training and credentials can make a big difference in the quality and outcome of your next landscape project. So, before you hire a landscape professional for your next outdoor endeavor, be sure to investigate their credentials and experience. A contractor committed to achieving the highest level of safety, efficiency, and productivity will undoubtedly provide you with the best service.

01 Feb 2022
How Can Your Love of Roses Complement Your Landscape?
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , , ,

How Can Your Love of Roses Complement Your Landscape?

February is undoubtedly the month of love, and the beautiful rose has come to symbolize and strengthen this representation for hundreds of years. Unfortunately, the high demand for this coveted flower during Valentine’s Day can easily triple in cost compared to the summer months. People across the country can be seen rushing around last minute on February 14th, spending a lot just to pick these beauties in an array of colors for their loved ones. Then in a week, they will wither, die, and find their way into the garbage. Not a good investment if you ask me!

So, if you’re an admirer of this flower, then why not include rose bushes within your landscape to enjoy throughout the entire season? Many varieties are readily available at local garden centers which require little maintenance, have extended bloom cycles, and grow different sizes to fit any space.

Wild (Species) Roses

These are the untouched ancestors of the roses most identified with today. They have remained unaltered without any cross-breeding or genetic modification. The Species Rose’s is exceptionally hardy to temperature fluctuations and requires little to no maintenance. Though they produce smaller flowers than their modern-day counterparts, and only once a season, they have many other valuable attributes. Vibrant hips (fruit) appear in fall, providing added seasonal color, not to mention attracting wildlife to the garden. Their tall arching branches make them an excellent selection for perimeter buffer plantings and screens. The thorns along their branches are also very profuse, making an excellent deterrent for unwanted company or deer.

Climbing Roses

Self-described, climbing roses develop very long canes (branches), which are flexible and easily trained through an arbor or trellis. Unlike actual vines, they do not possess clinging or climbing properties themselves and must be positioned intentionally. Some can even grow to lengths of 25’+, making them an excellent choice for a pergola or other large overhead structure. Walking by a grouping of roses in full bloom can be breathtaking but strolling under a mass of climbing roses is amazing. “Eden,” “New Dawn,” and “Joseph’s Coat” are some of the best climbers in the landscape.

Shrub Roses

Also known as landscape roses for their continued growing use in residential and commercial landscape projects, they’ve been cross-bred to create ultimate bloomers. Color variation, repeating bloom cycle, scent, and growth habits have been emphasized in these biogenetically engineered masters of the flower world. “Knock-Out” roses are most commonly known for their extended bloom from May through October, in addition to a high pest and disease tolerance. Carpet and Drift roses offer similar attributes but in a very low mounding and spreading variety, usually only growing 2’-4′ in height. Finally, miniature roses are well suited for container gardening, with most types only getting 1’-2′ tall. With so many choices available, you’re sure to find something that fits your needs.

The most requested item, hands down, in creating an aesthetically pleasing landscape is COLOR. Including rose varieties of different hues in your landscape is a guaranteed way to provide that WOW factor. Plant in masses with complementing colors, and you too will find yourself enjoying beautiful roses over multiple seasons throughout the year.

And wouldn’t that be so much better than only a week every mid-February?

 

 

 

 

01 Jan 2022
How and Why Should You Update Your Landscape Technology in the New Year?
By Mike Pasquarello Audio, Landscaping, Wi-Fi , ,

How and Why Should You Update Your Landscape Technology in the New Year?

Technology and landscape are terms that sometimes evoke more of a feeling of conflict than complement when used together. However, the truth is they can be integrated seamlessly. Smartphones and tablets are taking control of our daily lives with apps and features to manipulate just about everything. Home automation from these applications has become commonplace in new construction and renovations, so why not extend that same ease of WIFI use outdoors.

LED landscape lighting, irrigation systems, and outdoor audio can all be controlled with just a simple swipe of the hand.  These functions make operation a breeze and are environmentally friendly by optimizing water usage and energy consumption.

LED Landscape Lighting

LED landscape lighting technology has come a long way since its inception.  The initial cold, bluish led lamps are now warm and inviting with the added option of an array of vibrant colors.  WIFI-driven transformers can group light fixtures throughout separate outdoor spaces and adjust light intensities as chosen through a phone or tablet.  Presets can also be programmed into the smart device so lighting will automatically turn on or dim when it detects the device within that space.

The ability to change colors on individual fixtures right from the palm of your hand I find the most versatile in creating the mood.  The overall appearance of an outdoor space can be changed multiple times throughout the evening (or season), captivating your audience intriguing them to wonder what’s next.

Irrigation Systems

The constant question of- “When should I water and how much?” has finally been answered.  WIFI-enabled irrigation control units are linked to your device and web-based weather forecasting systems.  Variables such as sun exposure, plant species, and lawn types are first accounted for throughout individual zones on the property.  Watering schedules are then adjusted and set based on forecasted temperature, rainfall, humidity, and wind speeds. These systems even can detect a change in water flow due to a break or obstruction in the piping.  An alert is immediately sent to the smart device, and you can schedule a repair promptly to avoid costly water loss. This smart technology leads to water savings and a beautiful, healthy landscape.

Outdoor Audio

Nothing completes the outdoor experience than some good tunes from a well-balanced speaker system. The most recent trend in outdoor audio is incorporating satellite speakers and subwoofers hidden within the landscape to create an immersive experience.  WIFI-based units, such as Sonos, provide similar capabilities to their indoor counterparts. The smart device communicates with the WIFI driver and transmits the signal to an amplifier and speakers. Pandora, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and many others can easily be streamed right from the comfort of your patio seat and surround you with digital music. Individual speaker levels can also be adjusted to provide sound where needed most and gentle listening for more intimate spaces. Multiple users can play DJ and select their favorite jams from their phones for an entertaining evening.

Most of us are connected to our smart devices 24/7, so why not put them to use for a practical and unique outdoor experience. What better way to coax the whole family away from the TV and Facebook than to get them outside with beautiful lighting and great music?

This year, get them back to the playroom we all had growing up – the great outdoors.