News and Articles

The daytime appeal of your property may be overshadowed by the unwelcoming ambiance created by a dark and uncomfortable landscape at night. All homeowners aspire to create a beautiful environment on their property. When it comes to landscape design, beautiful plants and gardens are often the focus of attention, but well-placed landscape lighting may be even more important in creating your desired atmosphere. By illuminating significant architectural components of your outdoor project, you can...

Landscape lighting is to your home what salt is to food--absolutely essential. It can literally lighten up a dark (and uninviting) environment. Instead of removing all outdoor lighting post the holiday season, it makes aesthetic sense to use landscape lighting strategically and give your landscape the boost it deserves. In this article, we will look at the top-3 landscape lighting tips you can leverage to enhance your landscape. Three Killer Landscape Lighting Tips to Beautify Your Home 1. Use...

It’s quite common today for homeowners to choose the DIY route to execute their artistic vision for their landscape. However, without the expert guidance of a professional landscape designer, you may encounter quite a few bottlenecks that delay your project and damage your yard. Professional landscape designers will listen to your ideas and personal preferences and design an outdoor space that complements the layout of your house. They can transform your yard into an aesthetically appealing...

A microclimate is an area that continually has a different climate than the greater regional climate. On a grand scale, this phenomenon is exemplified by the urban heat island effect. The urban heat island effect is caused by the excess pavement absorbing, reflecting, and releasing heat energy making urban areas hotter than the surrounding countryside. Microclimates can be on a smaller scale as well. In your garden microclimates can be created by walls, trees, and pavement.Building a small...

First, you must determine the composition of your soil before you amend it. The best way to determine what to add to your soil is to have it analyzed by an expert. Pennsylvania State University has an Agricultural Research and Extension Center in most counties. They can recommend amendments based on the results of the test.Slightly acidic soil around 6.5 pH, is best for most plants, though there are exceptions. Adding decaying organic matter raises the acidity of your soil, and because of this...

Annuals are plants that grow, flower, produce seeds, and die in one growing season. They are inexpensive, easy to grow and provide a great, big, splash of color. Most annuals provide a longer-lasting flowering display than perennials or bulbs. A wonderful variety can be purchased from any Lowe’s, Home Depot, or local garden shop. Annuals are usually sold in “flats” consisting of about 12 plants. When purchasing avoid plants that are already in full bloom. Plants in full bloom will take longer...