Maintaining Low Maintenance Gardens
Whether it’s performed by you or a maintenance crew, there always seems to be something to do in the garden to keep it looking good. So, when we talk about “low maintenance gardens” what exactly does that mean?
Weed Barrier: Why Bother?
In landscape design, weed barrier, also known as landscape fabric or weed control fabric, has historically played a crucial role in maintaining a tidy and low-maintenance outdoor space, and in separating clients from their money.
How Much Should I Spend on a New Garden?
Without fail, new clients are mystified by the cost of a new garden. We provide budget brackets so you can get a sense for what’s normal, but the reality is that there are so many variables involved in landscape design that it’s almost impossible to give one figure to your client.
Do I Need To Call a Tree Expert?
When it comes to caring for trees, many homeowners may wonder about whether they need arborists, landscape designers or regular landscape maintenance crews to help them. In this blog post, we'll explore what arborists do, when you need to call one, and how they differ from other landscape experts.
What Does "Native" Really Mean?
We can all agree that native plants are important to us and our ecosystem. But how tightly should we define the word “native”? In this article, we will dive into the many definitions that apply to the term and help you decide where within that definition your heart lies.
The Art of Weeding: A Green Thumb's Guide to Nurturing Your Garden
Do you love weeding, or hate it? With the right tools, the right techniques and the right timing your weeding can go from a dreaded chore to a very satisfying way to nurture your garden. Read on to learn some great tips and tricks and clean up your garden in no time.
Illuminating Elegance: The Significance of Landscape Lighting and Design
Landscape lighting is a transformative element that goes beyond the functional aspects of illuminating outdoor spaces; it serves as a key design element that enhances aesthetics, promotes safety, and extends the usability of outdoor areas well into the evening.
Why Lawns Are a Problem
The cost that lawns place on us collectively is huge. In this article we discuss how lawns have gone from a necessity to a disaster in a few short generations, and what we can do about them.
What’s The Difference Between a Landscape Designer and a Landscape Architect?
In the realm of transforming outdoor spaces into breathtaking works of art, two professions often stand at the forefront: landscape designers and landscape architects. In this blog post, we'll delve into the differences between a landscape designer and a landscape architect.
Taming the Gopher Menace: Sustainable Solutions for a Flourishing Garden
Gophers, those industrious burrowers with an insatiable appetite for plant roots, can transform a garden into a battleground. How can protect your plants, without ruining the environment?
Oxalis: Angel or Devil? A Versatile Genus with A Dark Side
Oxalis - the name strikes fear in any gardener’s heart! But there’s more to this genus than meets the eye. Handy tips on how to kill it included, of course…
Rain at Last! What Should You Do about Your Irrigation?
Rain is on the way! Does that mean you should switch off your irrigation today, or put away your hose? Not quite! Find out the answers to questions many people have about irrigation in winter.
How on Earth Do I Water These Plants?
It’s true that almost all plants - even those that are drought tolerant - need water to get them established. What’s the most sustainable way to achieve that?
8 Ways Landscaping Affects Your Home Value
Studies say sellers can add anywhere from 5% to 17% more value to their home with a well-designed and maintained landscape. But how?
Mediterranean Gardens: Climate, Plant List or Design Style?
Here in the San Francisco Bay Area we have what’s known as a mediterranean climate - a climate that enjoys dry, warmer summer temperatures and mild, wetter winter rainfall patterns.
Our Favorite Bay Area Botanical Gardens
Botanical gardens are places where plants are grown for display to the public and often for scientific study. Visiting public botanic gardens is a great way to get some exercise, sunshine, fresh air, and inspiration for your garden.
Softer Than a Kitten! Non-Spiky Plants For Your Dry Garden
This article is all about our top 10 plants that are soft - really soft. Snuggly, smooshy-soft. You’ll want to touch these plants every time you pass by them!
Collecting Rainwater - Is It Worth It?
Saving water that falls from the sky can be a very neat way to keep your summer-dry garden looking a little greener. But should you bother?
Winter Flowering Plants For Your Dry Garden
During the winter months, when so many garden plants are taking a rest or going dormant, it is wonderful to have plants in the dry garden that burst into bloom to give you a reminder of the warmth of summer. We’ve rounded up a few of the most reliable, tough, and easy to grow plants that flower in mid winter in this area.
The Joy of Mulch
Mulches shade the soil, keeping plant roots cool in the hot sun, and warmer at night when the air temperature drops. Mulch also helps soil retain water, so that the moisture levels are more even between waterings, and can reduce erosion from water runoff.