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Elite Landscaping

Tag: landscape design

01 Nov 2021
landscape design
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , ,

How Can You Develop a Comprehensive Landscape Design Plan?

Every great plan begins with just an idea.  Maybe it’s a concept of an outdoor entertainment space, complete with fireplace and bar top, or a plan to arrange landscape plantings to complement the style of your home. However, it’s the next steps that are so important in transforming this idea into a reality.  Site evaluations, conceptual drawings, and final site plans/3D imagery all compose the path leading to your ultimate “staycation.” Before jumping into this process, the undoubtedly most crucial aspect is determining a BUDGET.  This mystical number will help guide the direction of the plans and how they are composed.

Site Evaluation

This initial step highlights any limiting factors present on your property to be considered in the plan.  Drainage (water flow) should be evaluated not to introduce any landscape/hardscape features that could impede flow or redirect water in an unapproved fashion.  Sun exposure will dictate if a roof or pergola structure may be a nice addition to beat the heat or simply the variety of plants that will thrive. Town building/zoning codes need to be researched to be aware of what is allowable within your municipality.  Most towns have lot coverage and setback codes which may limit the extent of your project.  Conduct a soil analysis to determine if there is a high clay or sand content present.  The soil will directly affect how certain hardscape features are constructed (footing depth, base material, etc.) and the type of plant material utilized.  Spend some time studying the dynamics of your property to lead you in the right direction.

Conceptual Designs

Exterior landscape/hardscape design is a very fluid, ever-evolving process that should not be rushed. Take your time and allow the spaces to be sketched out so that all “wish list” elements be accounted for and located.  This planning will help in deciding spatially what can be incorporated and what can’t. This step helps examine the possibilities.  An old-fashioned #2 pencil with a fat eraser, in conjunction with trace paper, is a great way to create overlays and optional features.   This stage is the time to be creative, so if one idea doesn’t work, erase it or sketch over and try again.

Final Site Plan/3D Imagery

This last step is typically reserved for certified/degreed landscape architects and accredited landscape designers; however, computer programs are available if you feel up to the task.  A home survey is a valuable document you most likely already have to develop the base map of existing structures.  The survey is a scaled drawing that is either enlarged by hand drafting or importing into a computer program.  The conceptual images are now drawn in at the exact dimensions of the proposed project.  This is the plan which will be used for construction, so precision is key.  All structures, hard surfaces, bed lines, plant material, etc., should be included in these plans.  For those who have trouble envisioning overhead site plans, 3D imagery is available to create a realistic representation of the project’s appearance before a shovel is put into the ground.  Specific vantage points can be manipulated and viewed through these images.

The comprehensive landscape/hardscape design process is the necessary starting point to elaborate on that “million-dollar” (or maybe just a few thousand) ideas and provides piece of mind in your investment.  So, when you see those accreditations and abbreviations listed next to a designer’s name, know they come with the value and the ability to help professionally. So now that your design is complete, it’s time to start planning the best feature….  how you’re going to relax and enjoy your newfound outdoor space once construction is complete!

Need help planning your next landscape project. Our experienced, accredited team can help. Call us to schedule a consultation at (856) 753.1944.

01 Sep 2021
Fall Landscape
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , ,

Don’t Let Your Landscape FALL Flat

Summer is winding down, vacations are ending, and those yellow school buses are making a comeback. Fall also brings changes to the temperatures and environment. This season makes it a great time to determine how your landscape faired over the warmer months and spruce things up as we head into the colder temperatures.

Extreme heat, lack of rain, and high humidity are all culprits that challenge lawn and landscape plantings. However, the most visibly affected area on most properties throughout the Delaware Valley is the turf.  So, what can be done to bring back that lush, green, golf course-like lawn you had back in April? And how can you also take advantage of the seasonal holidays to add some interest and color back to your landscape? We’re sharing some professional tips.

Lawn

Fungus was the quick spreading grass killer fueled by heat, humidity, and the over-watering suburban homeowner over the past few months. Fungus first appears as some yellowing areas which rapidly took over the lawn if not treated properly. The first inclination is to crank the irrigation up and even have it come on multiple times throughout the day. Unfortunately, more water adds to the problem making it much more difficult to correct with fungicides.

Don’t despair; in a few steps, you can bring your lawn back to its former beauty. Once this fungus (among us) is kept at bay, it’s on to the next step – Fall Lawn Renovation.

First, thatch your lawn to remove all built-up dead turf blades and debris. This can be done manually with a metal tined rake for those ready for a workout or by machine to be quick and efficient. Then, aerate your soil to remedy compaction and allow air, beneficial nutrients, and water to reach the root zone easily. Next, add a peat moss/soil mixture spread to any excessive bare spots throughout to provide the seed a stable germination medium. Lastly, apply grass seed along with a starter fertilizer for that extra boost. Ensure the new seed receives adequate water throughout its growing cycle to become a mature, hardened-off blade.

Flowers

Now that your lawn is the envy of the PGA tour, some much-needed seasonal color should follow suit. Mums are the staple fall flower that, when planted in masses, can create a stunning effect, but don’t stop there. Kale, cabbage, asters, and sedum will all add that vibrancy back into your landscape once the petunias and impatiens have all lost their appeal. Some of these are even perennials which means they will re-emerge each year to brighten your landscape. I can’t stress enough that planting in masses will help you achieve that WOW factor.  Quantities of three are good, five even better, and more than seven is a knockout!

Décor

Halloween and Thanksgiving are close enough to one another that outdoor décor displays can cover both.  If ghouls and goblins aren’t your things, you can still be festive and arrange pumpkins, multi-colored gourds, straw bales, and corn stalks. These all evoke the feeling of the fall harvest and are an excellent addition to entryways and landscaped areas. As with flower plantings, more is better! If you typically only purchased two pumpkins in the past, this year, get 9 of various sizes and arrange them in multiple groupings throughout.  Corn stalks are a great accent to any vertical elements of your home and landscape, such as light poles, doors, and tree trunks. The best aspect about these items is that they are relatively inexpensive, so you can go all out without breaking the bank.

Fall is associated with the end of the growing season, but no need to sit back and watch things wilt and die.  Finish up strong in a blaze of oranges, yellows, purples, and burgundies.  “Autumn… the year’s last, loveliest smile”- William Cullen Bryants

01 Jun 2021
Shade Structures
By Mike Pasquarello General, Landscaping, Shading , ,

Great Ways to Incorporate Shade Structures

As summer approaches and the sun continually gets higher in the sky day by day, patio spaces will begin to heat up and bake. Higher temps can make for an uncomfortable experience at any outdoor party or BBQ. There is no need to sweat it, though, because there are many ways to include shade elements within your space to beat the heat. Shade sails, pergolas, or even pavilion-style roof structures can all be custom-designed to fit your needs.

Shade Sails

Shade sails first became popular at resort destinations and hotels but made their way into residential landscapes more and more every year. The design concept is based on having at least 3-4 fixed anchor points either on a home’s façade or posts. These connections are usually a galvanized or stainless steel eye anchor bolts. The sail itself is made from decorative, UV resistant, tensioned fabric available in an array of vibrant colors. Multiple sails can be combined and layered to create an architectural parabolic focal point. There are numerous online manufacturers that will design complete kits that even the novice handyman would install.

Pergolas

Pergolas are another way to achieve filtered shade and be constructed from wood, vinyl, composite, or aluminum materials. Three essential elements compose a pergola- vertical posts/columns, support cross-beams/rafters, and ornate purlins. These structures not only provide shade but can be home for flowering woody vines such as wisteria, honeysuckle, trumpet vine, to name a few. Retractable canopy systems are also available for individuals who want the look of a pergola with the option to have complete shade. Sunbrella fabrics are used on sliding tracks mounted between the rafters and can either be operated manually or remotely. These pergolas are the best solutions to appease both the sun worshipper and shade lover alike.

Pavillions

Open-air, pavilion-style, solid roof structures are the ultimate way to create an outdoor shaded room that can be utilized in any weather. As with a pergola, pavilions have vertical posts/columns and can be tied into a home façade or built freestanding. The framed solid roof allows for the incorporation of recessed lighting, fans, audio-visual, not to mention a force field from those burning UV rays. Shade is not the only way these roof structures can provide refuge from the sun. Misters can even be integrated into the soffit overhang to offer added relief. Many construction codes and township setback requirements apply to these, so some pre-design research is recommended.

Your yard can provide sanctuary from the sun with more architectural ways than just the typical patio umbrella. On the next bright day, sit in your space and evaluate sun patterns throughout the day. Make a wish list of your needs for how you would like to increase the use of the area and decide which solution works best.

Stay cool this summer!

01 May 2021
Brighten Up Your Everyday Landscape
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , , ,

How Can You Brighten Up Your Everyday Landscape?

Undoubtedly the number one requested item by homeowners looking to renovate their existing landscape is…. COLOR.  A way to brighten things up a bit and introduce life back into a generally stagnant landscape.  Specific color combinations can evoke feelings of warmth (red/orange), relaxation (blue/purple), or tranquility (pink, yellow).  So it’s important to carefully consider the perception you wish to convey with the use of color. It’s relatively inexpensive to achieve a color palette worthy of being framed in a museum with a wide array of annuals, perennials, and container gardens.
 

Annuals

An annual planting performs its entire life cycle in one growing season.  In our region, this season is typically March until November, depending on the specific variety. They also have to be planted every year and removed at the end of their cycle. Although annuals have an added maintenance aspect, they will provide the “best bloom for your buck.”
 
A single flat of annual flowers goes a long way and can provide continuous color from last spring frost to the first frost of the fall.  But don’t stop at one flat; plant multiple in large masses to create that WOW factor which will be the envy of the entire neighborhood.  Annual plantings are the perfect way to change up the look of your landscape from season to season.
 

Perennials

Perennials are the right fit for those with a not-so-green thumb or the time to replant annuals year to year.  In contrast to annuals, perennials will re-emerge each spring and flourish until winter. At this time, the top portion of the plant will die back, leaving the roots to start the whole process all over again come the following spring.  As with annuals, perennials will have bloom cycles concentrated in the spring, summer, or fall seasons. They have a larger growth habit than annuals that should be considered for their location and spread and increase overall size as the years’ progress.
 
Perennial design should be done so in a fashion as to create an ever-evolving showcase of blooms throughout the seasons.  They can provide specific colors, textures, and even fragrances not found in annual arrangements.
 

Container Gardens

Sometimes when space is limited, decorative container gardens can achieve the look you desire. The days of ordinary terracotta pots are long gone, and bold colors and designs are available in ceramic, stone, and composite. These planting vessels are a great way to add accents of color to your outdoor entertainment space. Cobalt blues, chartreuse greens, and crimson reds may seem a bit loud for the timider gardener but can provide that little extra pop of needed color. Annual plantings are typically reserved for these container gardens and can be removed at the end of the season.
 
An easy way to create added interest is to include plantings of complimenting colors but contrasting textures. The use of grasses/sedges, flowering plants, and trailing vines will create your own mini landscape. Edibles are also a great addition not only for their nutritional value but also for the aesthetics of the flower/fruit they produce. Nothing better than freshly picked herbs and vegetables while dining al fresco on a midsummer night.
 
These three options will quickly increase the overall enjoyment of your space while not breaking the bank. A well-thought-out planting color scheme can increase your property value, be therapeutic, and create a space everyone will admire.  And, this entire process is meant to be dynamic and ever-evolving, so if something doesn’t work at first, don’t give up; just try again.

If you’d rather hire a professional, or if you want more ideas on how to brighten up your yard, give our award-winning team a call today at 856-753-1944.

29 Mar 2021
container gardening
By Mike Pasquarello Landscaping , , , , ,

Mental Landscape: Surviving Stay at Home

As the country, even the world, finds itself within the confines of “Home,” the population is trying to find ways to cope with social distancing.  Outdoor living, landscaping, and gardening have all proved to be invaluable assets to get us through these unprecedented times.

Governing bodies throughout the country have deemed landscape companies as essential businesses allowing them to proceed with operations throughout the entire pandemic. Lawns can still be manicured, fertilization/insecticide applications applied, and so can the planting of flowers, shrubs, and trees. There’s something important about still being about to connect with nature and appreciate it in all its beauty that reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression, decreases stress, and strengthens one’s sense of well-being. The fact that this has been recognized by the “powers that be” will enable all of us to get through this and keep our sanity.

Health and Wellness

Outdoor living can help you achieve the balance of physical and mental well-being. The implementation of outdoor spaces can create areas of calm contemplation to reduce overall stress leaving you in a more comfortable state of mind. The use of plant material that appeals to the five senses and soothing audio all add to this healing experience. Active family social interaction within these environments creates another dimension to the overall mental wellness. The same healing gardens seen in health care institutions can be recreated on a residential scale and lead you to embrace absolute Zen.

On a smaller scale, container gardens can become a project providing individuals, and even families, a chance to interact and promote increased physical activity while stuck at home. Sometimes when space is limited, you can still accomplish much with the use of decorative container gardens. The days of terracotta pots are long gone, and bold colors and designs are available in ceramic, stone, and composite. These planting vessels are a great way to add accents of color to your outdoor entertainment space.  Cobalt blues, chartreuse greens, and crimson reds may seem a bit loud for the timider gardener but can provide that little extra pop of needed color. Annual plantings are typically reserved for these container gardens and are removed at the end of the season. An easy way to create added interest is to include plantings of complimenting colors but contrasting textures. The use of grasses/sedges along with flowering plants and trailing vines will create your own personal mini landscape. Edibles are also a great addition not only for their nutritional value but also for the aesthetics of the flower/fruit they produce. Nothing’s better than freshly picked herbs, vegetables while dining al fresco on a mid-summer’s night with friends (hopefully) by the time we get to that point.

Connecting with others is the name of the game in keeping a healthy outlook on life. Even if the substitute for “others” is Mother Nature, let being outside and tending to your garden be your best remedy to ensuring mental well-being on a day-to-day basis. Most importantly, let your family be the other. Keep calm and garden on.

If you would like more information about container gardening or how to transform your property into a beautiful and functional space, give our award-winning team a call today at 856-753-1944.