FAQs

The optimal planting periods for trees, shrubs, and flowers are during spring and fall when temperatures are milder. While planting is possible throughout summer, it requires more attentive care due to higher temperatures.

Patio construction involves several steps: first, excavate 9 inches of soil. Next, install and compact a 6-inch gravel base. Then, add a 1-inch sand setting bed. Install pavers on top of this foundation. Finally, secure the edges with paver edging and fill the joints between pavers with polymeric sand.

Mulch application frequency depends on your schedule. For annual mulching, a light 1-inch top dressing is typically sufficient. If mulching every other year or less frequently, applying a 2-3 inch layer of mulch is more beneficial.

Landscape design is the process of planning and creating outdoor environments such as gardens, parks, and public spaces. It involves considering various aspects including functionality, visual appeal, ecological impact, and long-term sustainability.

A landscape encompasses the visible features of an area, including natural elements like terrain, vegetation, and water bodies, as well as man-made structures. While often appreciated for its visual appeal, a landscape can also be studied for its ecological, geographical, and cultural significance.

Hardscape refers to the non-living structural elements in landscape design, contrasting with softscape which includes living, plant-based components. Hardscape elements serve both practical and aesthetic purposes, providing structure, defining spaces, creating pathways, and enhancing the visual appeal of outdoor areas.

Common hardscape materials include: pavers (brick, concrete, stone, porcelain, gravel) for patios, walkways, and driveways; natural stone (flagstone, slate, bluestone, boulders) for walls and accents; wood for fences and structures; concrete for various applications; and metals (aluminum, steel, wrought iron) for fences and decorative elements.

Common hardscape features include patios for outdoor living, walkways and paths for navigation, driveways for vehicle access, walls and fences for boundaries, retaining walls for slope management, stairs for level changes, water features for ambiance, fire pits for gathering spaces, outdoor kitchens for al fresco dining, and lighting for safety and atmosphere.

Hardscaping offers numerous benefits: it enhances the functionality and usability of outdoor spaces, provides structure to the landscape, improves property aesthetics and value, allows for the creation of distinct zones within the landscape, offers durability and low maintenance, and enables the implementation of unique and visually appealing designs.

When planning hardscape, consider your budget constraints, intended functionality of the space, aesthetic compatibility with your home and existing landscape, maintenance requirements of different materials, local permit regulations, and the potential benefits of consulting with a professional landscape designer or contractor for expert guidance.