Landscape and Garden Design Services
Landscape and Garden Services
Mixed Beds: “Imagine a planting where perennials are permitted to lean on shrubs, bulbs are planted to punch ground covers, vines are encouraged to climb small trees, annuals are placed in voids, perennials are interspersed throughout, and self-seeders are allowed to remain where they sprout. In this same landscape, envision seasonal plants supported by a cast of more permanent plants – perhaps large deciduous shrubs or small trees. These serve as the backbone, or structure, for the composition which, in turn, “carry” the space during the down seasons. Plants that have long off-seasons are strategically positioned so as to not disrupt the overall balance when they are underperforming.” ~ Scott Scarfone Professional Planting Design.
Design:
Landscape design is an iterative process. Our landscape designs are typically divided into 3 distinct phases:
1. Conceptual Design Phase
In the conceptual phase we explore your ideas and desires for the project. For example, are you looking for outdoor living areas or to upgrade existing elements?
2. Preliminary Design Phase
Once we have a good idea of a general style and arrangement of elements, we draw up the initial landscape plan. This is the first formalized landscape design.
3. Final Design Phase
Once we have developed the plan in the preliminary phase, we revise the plan and present the finalized landscape plan. At this point, we are finalizing budgeting numbers, materials, and elements to be included in construction.
Once the design phase is complete we are happy to implement your project.
Build:
- Ornamental plantings: trees, shrubs, mixed beds, perennial borders, foundation, screening
- Masonry: patios, walkways, walls, non-asphalt driveways
- Water features: ponds, streams, waterfalls
Maintenance: We will maintain your gardens and monitor plant health on a weekly, biweekly or monthly basis.
Winter
- Cutting back and removal of plant debris
- Leaf removal and disposal
- Pruning of small flowering trees and shrubs
- Planting bed grooming in preparation for springtime mulching
Spring Through Summer
- Grooming and deadheading of small trees, shrubs and perennials to prolong bloom cycles
- Monitor all garden areas for pests and diseases
- Proactive, preventative care of all plants
- Perform soil testing
- Develop and implement organic fertilization, weed prevention and pruning programs
Autumn
- Cutting back, pruning and division of plants approaching dormancy
- Leaf removal
- Mulch touch ups for winter protection
- Seasonal displays of pansies and chrysanthemums
Container Gardens
- Containers can put horticultural interest on decks, porches, patios, stoops and walls
- Combinations of annuals, perennials, grass, shrubs and trees are possible
- Designs will harmonize with existing plantings and architecture
Garden Consulting:
Do any of these comments sound like you?
"When we bought our house we inherited lovely shrubs, plants and flower beds. At first we were thrilled--then when Spring came I was overwhelmed and petrified. I had no idea what to do to the plants and shrubs and not a clue what to buy for the beds. Instead of finding my yard relaxing, it was intimidating."
"I moved from New York City and I did what most new homeowners do: I read a book and ran out, bought a lot of expensive perennials, stuck them in the ground, and congratulated myself for my industry and initiative. Soon, I got to watch them...die."
In choosing the right plants for your garden, you should ideally be aware of things such as your soil type, the amount of light reaching the flower beds, the aspect of your garden, and whether the beds are sheltered or exposed. Next you need to match up the cultural requirements of the plants that you are considering with the conditions at the site where you intend to plant.
Our services start with a one-time visit to identify key property characteristics to a series of guidance meetings to keep your garden going in the right direction. The knowledge I will impart will help you avoid making costly errors and more importantly help prevent you from having a less-than-satisfying season. I will show you how, where, and when to plant on your property, which is essential to begin a successful garden.
.