Q: I have a large juniper that is growing into my sidewalk - can you cut it back 2 feet so it is out of the way? A: Thank you for the great question! The problem with dramatically pruning junipers is that the green foliage you see is only several inches thick. Woody, brown branches are what make up most of the overgrown junipers. We can trim it a few inches and still have it looking nice, but if we take off more than that it will look brown and woody. To be quite honest, it w

Maiden Grass Miscanthus sinesis ‘Gracillimus’ - Zone 4-9 Stalks of feathery reddish-brown seed heads stand tall above the green grass blades. After the first frost, the green grass blades and stalks begin turning a golden-brown that lasts to late winter. Plant in full sun and water regularly. A moderate grower that can read 8’ tall and 5’ wide. Adaptable to most well-drained soils. Cut back in late winter to early spring before new growth appears. Be careful the blades of Mai

This transformation was a newly built house that had nothing but dirt and weeds for a backyard. The client wanted low maintenance and clean but lush look. First, we removed all the weeds and laid the main tubing down for the irrigation. We planted a lot of xeric plants to give the client that lush look while being water-wise. We didn’t plant anything within several feet of the flagstone patio to prevent the yard from ever looking overgrown and cluttered. Next, we placed a cou

Q: Do you have to use a blower on the property during your visits? A: We understand how some people can find the use of a blower annoying. We have clients who do not want us to use the blower while they are home. Instead, we sweep by hand which takes most of the visit (man-hours assigned) depending on the property size. This prevents us from completing our usual tasks on the property and can be more costly for the client. Using blowers allows us to clear debris efficiently an

Allgold Broom Cytisus x praecox (C.multiflorus x C. purgans) ‘Allgold’ - Zone 6-9 Long green branches with tiny leaves bloom throughout the spring. The yellow pea-like flowers are stunning in both their quantity and beauty. Adaptable to most well-drained soils. A fast grower that can reach 6’ tall and wide. Plant in full sun and water regularly for best growth. Cut back a third to two thirds after flowering to promote healthy spring growth. An easy-care shrub that looks grea

This week, we take a plain old concrete sidewalk and make the entire area look a bit more Santa Fean! Our client was not too thrilled with the current sidewalk - we started off with cutting flagstone to fit the top of the concrete. In addition, a moss rock edging was installed with the existing sidewalk. Gravel, some new trees, shrubs, and a few perennials were added around the small flagstone patio and water feature. Have a wonderful Tuesday!

Spring is around the corner! Here's this week's, Question of the week: Q: Can I plant tulips bulbs now in spring? A: Tulips are a spring-blooming bulb that needs to be planted in the fall. Tulips need a cold period (about 14 weeks) in order to properly develop their flowers. But if you are in the mood for planting bulbs don’t worry! There are a few types of bulbs you can plant in the spring that will bloom that summer. Gladiolus, dahlias and elephant ears are a great addition

Eastern snowball, Viburnum opulus ‘Sterile” - Zone 3-8 A multitude of snow white flowers shaped like snowballs cover this unique shrub from late spring to early summer. In the fall the glossy green leaves fade into a reddish-purple hue. Eastern snowball is a moderate grower that can reach 12’ tall and 10’ wide. Plant in partial to full sun with regular watering. Tolerant of most soils. Should be pruned after flowering to maintain shape and size.

Our client needed something to add a bit more interest as well as break up the flagstone a bit. We decided on this water feature - a circle was cut into the existing flagstone. Next, the water fountain was installed in addition with a few perennials around it. The sound of trickling water from the fountain sure made this yard nice and relaxing. Happy Tuesday!

Q: What services do I receive with a maintenance contract? A: With a maintenance contract you are receiving a certain amount of man hours based on your individual contract. The time is used to deadhead plants, pull weeds, rake gravel and beds, water if needed, blow the property, remove debris and make your property look as nice as it can within the allotted time period. Our crew will get as much done as they can each visit. If there is anything special relating that you want