Landscaping News

Steps For Effective Landscape Planning

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

The success of any landscaping project depends on design and preparation. Thoughtful and professional planning of your landscaping will help you to create your dream backyard.

Formulating a Plan

A landscape design is first sketched on graph paper or drawn up with a CAD software program. Without the assistance of an experienced professional, creating a landscape-design plan can be somewhat intimidating for homeowners.

First, a scaled map is created to show where the property boundaries are in relation to the home. It is critical for the dimensions and placement of structures to be precisely represented to create an accurate depiction.

Studying the Property

When creating a landscape design, the entire property must be looked at as one cohesive unit. A landscape designer will know how to factor in everything from the trees and shrubs to the walkways and lighting.

You need to account for all parts of the home and yard, including patios, decks, gazebos, and pools. Design your walkways to be both aesthetically pleasing as well as safe to walk on during both day and night time. Once you have an accurate illustration of your yard, other characteristics of your property, you can add in types of vegetation and natural areas to the plan.

Creating Purpose

Once you have a thorough understanding of what you have to work with on your property you can start to think about what landscaping design features you want to incorporate. A properly landscaped yard should have something for the whole family. This may include adding flower, herb or vegetable gardens and areas for entertaining or relaxing, a play area for the kids, a pet-exercise area or spaces for hobbies and equipment repair.

Plants and Materials

Once you have a general idea of how you want your yard to be laid out you will need to choose the right plants and materials for your space. Choosing plants that are native to specific growing zones will allow them to survive and flourish while minimizing maintenance.

You will need to decide on the types of trees, shrubs, and flowers as well as materials for patios, decks and walkways, privacy screens and noise barriers. In some places, plants can also serve as structures. For example, a row or two of some type of evergreen shrub, hedge or bush can act as both a noise barrier and privacy screen.

Hiring a landscape designer will help you make these decisions and avoid common mistakes. For example, one common mistake many people make while landscaping is placing plants or trees to close together. This constricts plant growth.  

Bringing It Together

After you have determined the primary uses for your yard you can begin the process of organizing and laying out the design on paper. The house, garages, outbuilding and any other relevant structural details should be added to your design first. 

Any areas of your yard that are in public view should be given special consideration, including setting up sheltered areas for storing refuse, lawn maintenance equipment, and other miscellaneous outdoor supplies. Finally, add driveways, walkways, and entrances for patios and other main areas. Each of these basic, but important, features plays a vital role in creating an attractive and functional landscape design.

Climate and Terrain

Rainfall, wind, topography and temperature variations in the area should all be considered while you design your property. Consult a professional landscape for specific recommendations. 

Because soil heavily impacts vegetation, it is important to have a professional soil test done to determine what plants are best suited for your soil type. Topography, including slopes and variations in elevation, will affect the drainage of your property and should be factored into your decision as well. 

Sun-Shade Patterns

Daily sun and shade patterns on your property can help you map out where to plant trees in your yard. Additionally, the angles of your house, garages, sheds and other outdoor structures can help to highlight or downplay qualities of your home and yard.

Night Gardens

A night garden is a great way to add both romance and mystery to your yard. The proper selection of plants is crucial to create the perfect night garden. When in doubt, choose low-maintenance species that thrive in the moonlight. 

Plants that release scent during the night, called “noctiflora,” are some of the best choices for night gardens. Light-colored flowers and foliage that show up well in the dark are also great choices.

Lighting

A garden’s layout can have a big impact on how the light falls on and illuminates the plants. If natural lighting can’t be used for some reason, you can achieve the desired effect with landscaping lights. 

The three main types of landscape lighting include downward, upward and cross lighting.

Downward lighting adds a feeling of class and is a fashionable choice for casting light from above. Upward lighting works well for illuminating the sides of structures, such as walls and pillars, from the ground, adding depth to an otherwise boring scene. Cross lighting is designed to cast light a specific point from both sides, above and/or below.

Multi-colored lighting will allow you to express yourself, mix things up and make the landscape features truly pop at night. A well-lit multicolored path can also be a stunning feature for a night garden.

When you decide to landscape your backyard, it is important to craft a meticulous landscaping plan. If you would like to redesign your backyard, call the experts at Hidden Creek Landscaping. Together, we can create a backyard that’s perfect for you and your whole family.

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Landscape Water Features

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Landscape water features give you a natural sanctuary providing a respite from the stresses of the day right inside your own backyard. There is a richness and diversity that water features produce as both people and nature respond to the refreshing and soothing qualities of moving water.

Whether it is a water fountain nestled among your flowers, a pool waterfall with underwater lighting as a focal point, a pond stocked with exotic fish, a stone waterfall, or spillways that feed into a meandering stream, we have ideas and tips for creating, planning and installing water features that cater to your specific desires.

 

Water has a Healing Effect

Landscape Water Features

Why install a water feature? Well, listening to the sounds of flowing or trickling water, studies have shown, ranks among the same beneficial effects we glean from sleep or massage for their restorative, stress-relieving powers. Water features help relax mind, body and spirit. There are all manners of stone and pool waterfalls, stream designs, koi ponds, fountains and more from which to select your own personal landscape water features.

 

Our Recommendations

The options for backyard water features in Ohio are endless whether you are dealing with limited space or have a large spread of land. We specialize in scaling landscaping projects to add beautiful tranquility to your outdoor living space. Not sure what type of water feature you are looking for to enhance your lawn and garden? Here is our comparison of a few common types to give you a better understanding of will work for you in your garden:

Pools

For one of the most classic water features, it is hard to beat the allure of a pool. This will take a substantial initial investment, but will be a great source of entertainment and beauty for years to come. You can even spice them up with fountains or waterfalls for a natural, relaxing feature. 

Pros:

  • Great source of entertainment for all ages
  • Flexibility – the pool can be whatever size/shape/style you need it to be
  • Increases the value of your home
  • Able to be heated to use for longer time period during the year
  • Great way to exercise

Cons:

  • Requires maintenance to keep the water clean and free of the accumulation of sticks, dirt, algae, etc.
  • Initial excavation may require substantial digging and investment
  • Not able to use all throughout the year
  • May increase your insurance costs

 

Container Ponds

If your available space is limited, a container pond is an impermanent and convenient alternative to an in-ground pool. You can convert just about any container into a container pond from glazed pots to a half-cut wine barrel to concrete bowls, all of which can be of any size. Whether the diameter is the same from top to bottom or the bowl is tapered, they typically have a wide opening, but even a 3-foot diameter allows enough space inside to add fish, aquatic grass, water lilies or other suitable plants for the perfect aesthetic touch. You can use a convenient plant support ring, which is a simple wire rack with openings that hold the plants in their containers just beneath the water’s surface. Now you are dealing with the equivalent of a fish tank to which you can add pumps and filters to keep the water clean and circulating.

Pros:

Landscape Water Features

  • No need for digging or excavation
  • Excellent choice for small spaces
  • Container ponds are available as kits
  • An inexpensive way to “get your feet wet” in the world of landscaping water features. Start with something small and graduate to bigger projects

Cons:

  • You may need to seal your container to prevent leakage
  • The deeper the container, the more difficult it can be to keep clean
  • You need to be cautious of the drowning risk posed when small children present

 

Wall Fountain

Wall fountains provide another alternative when space is an issue. These vertical water features offer the unexpected treat of a water aesthetic within the confines of compact spaces. They typically have a basin to catch and circulate the water with some wall fountains spilling directly into a container pond. Wall fountains use a pump requiring tubing or pipes that are invisibly set behind the fountain.

Pros:

  • Prime for small spaces
  • Can be uniquely designed and installed
  • Available as easy-to-assemble kits that are simple plug-in units
  • Different sizes and shapes available

Cons:

  • Fountain flow is not adjustable without an adjustable valve
  • Cost comparison between a kit and designing your own wall fountain is negligible
  • Can increase humidity in the air

 

Streams

For your larger property, man-made streams present a way to incorporate natural pools and waterfalls while offering a feature that may sidle up to a walkway, providing a tranquil path for all who traverse the landscape.

Pros:

  • Lends to a more natural, informal design
  • Adapts well to existing water features or to expand upon what you may already have in place
  • Conducive to decorative plants, grasses and river rocks for a natural aesthetic

Cons:

  • Streams require a pump system and plumbing to route the flow of water from the pond or pool destination back to the start of the stream
  • Longer streams just look better, which can involve a significant amount of digging
  • The initial build can be costly
  • Requires significant maintenance for the size and organic matter that can accumulate

 

Whatever landscape water features that you select, you should always install a pump to keep the water circulating. This helps detract still-water insects such as mosquitoes and wasps. If you do add fish and plants, make sure your pumps, filters and cleaners are up to the task. Anytime you install an outdoor landscape water feature that includes fish, expect to see other interested creatures appear on the scene such as frogs, raccoons and herons.

The pleasurable effects of landscape water features enhance the overall experience of your garden, whether enjoying a backyard party, a barbecue get-together or simply a private break all by yourself. You can make your yard a sanctuary, and the investment not only offers a calming presence at home, but it contributes to your property value as well.

If you are interested in learning more about custom landscape water features or how to winterize your existing features, our expert team of creative landscaping professionals can provide insight and in-depth knowledge of the many types of feature designs as well as the local Ohio terrain and trends. Contact us today to discuss your dream landscape and how we can bring your plans to fruition!

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Will Landscaping Increase My Home Value?

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Landscaping can increase the visual appeal of your home. It can also increase your home value. Below are some examples of how this can be accomplished.

Replacing or Adding Some Design Basics

A number of individuals overhaul their closets every few years.  The process typically involves revamping their wardrobe by replacing worn-out basics with some new pieces.  The same concept can be applied to your yard with exceptional results.  Giving your landscape a basic makeover can provide the space with a classic, value-boosting foundation on which you can build a work of art.

Some landscape design basics may include:

  • A deciduous tree approximately 15 feet tall
  • Some flowering shrubs
  • A walkway made of winding flagstone
  • Two or more 6 feet by 2 feet stone planters
  • Quality mulch

Essentially, making a few small changes has the capacity to do a lot more than merely making your home more visually appealing. When correctly executed, this type of outdoor renovation project will boost the value of your home.

Building or Renovating a Patio or Deck

A patio or deck installment or upgrade can dramatically transform an empty, unattractive backyard into a tremendous outdoor feature. Any of these structures can provide the ideal spot to entertain, relax, and revel in outdoor living at its finest.

The patios and decks that will get the biggest return on investment are those that appear to have been installed since the house was constructed. However, this is not an indication that it should look old or worn out. Instead, it is widely recommended that homeowners add or upgrade a patio or deck in proportion to the structure and property on which the home sits.

The majority of home buyers appreciate being able to use the convenience of their own backyard to escape from the burdens of everyday life, even if only for a while. If you have a limited budget that will not allow you to invest in an elaborate outdoor kitchen, for example, adding a patio or deck is a straightforward upgrade that can boost your home value. 

Constructing or Remodeling an Outdoor Kitchen

The outdoor kitchen is a structure that many landscaping dreams are made of. With a kitchen on the outside, entertaining friends and family will be a breeze. For many home buyers, this added luxury is becoming more and more desirable. Outdoor kitchens can create a fascinating ambiance that enriches your experience in the outdoors.   

renovate patioConstructing or remodeling an outdoor kitchen can be a remarkable idea. For homeowners who live in regions that experience a long winter season, opting for an outdoor kitchen in place of a swimming pool would be a wise choice.  With a waterproof awning or pavilion, you will have the option of using your outdoor kitchen year-round.  

By adding one of these popular outdoor rooms to your home, you could see an average return on investment of between 100 and 200 percent. However, this largely depends on the climate.  Warmer areas and structures built with durable materials typically see a higher return on investment.   

Adding a Rainwater Recycling System

The cost of water is constantly on the rise; therefore, efforts to conserve water have become an important issue in the minds of frugal and environmentally-conscious homeowners. While lush, green lawns have a certain appeal, a number of homeowners have expressed a need to have homes that will not consistently take money from their pockets. In addition to solar panels, a rainwater recycling system can help to create a more sustainable home and reduce your dependence on utility suppliers. This will go a far way in increasing your home value.

Lighting Up Your Outdoor Living Space

Proper lighting will help you to highlight all the improvements that have been made to the functional and aesthetic value of your property, even after the sun sets. Adding strategically placed lighting to your property will boost its function, visual appeal and overall value of the property.

Making Lawn Care a Priority

You can make improvements to your landscaping without much complication. Keeping your lawn looking its best is a great method for improving the curb appeal of your home. This does not mean you need to constantly sit and watch for weeds to pop up. This only requires:

  • Raking

Remove debris like leaves on a regular basis.

  • Aerating

Pierce the lawn to allow nutrients and air to better access the roots of the grass. This assists roots in growing more deeply; creating a strong, lush and healthy lawn.

  • Fertilizing

During the growing season, your lawn should be fed required nutrients every 6 to 8 weeks.

  • Watering

You should water the lawn deeply and infrequently; this encourages greater growth.

  • Mowing

Regularly cut your grass but ensure it is not too short.  Shade cast by taller grass assists in preventing weed development.

  • Edging

Left to its natural progression, grass will find its way into driveways, garden beds and sidewalks; this causes an untidy appearance. For a clean, manicured appearance, trim away the excess at the edge of the turf. curb appeal

It is not necessarily expensive to take care of your lawn, but it does require an investment of your effort and time. If you would rather not invest your energy and time on lawn care, other options are available. You can hire a landscaping company to keep your lawn looking its best.

If your budget does not allow for major home improvement, a number of low-cost options exist for enhancing the exterior of your home to boost its value. Landscaping projects like adding mature plants, planting flowers at the entrance of your home, re-sodding your lawn, sealing your driveway and trimming and weeding all cost under $1000 (often considerably less). The National Association of Landscape Professionals states that “a homeowner can expect a 215% return on investment” for landscaping projects like these.

If executed properly, The Washington Post says experts estimate that landscaping can cause “an increase in value on your home from 5 percent to 20 percent.”

Contact us for more tips, or to discuss how we can help add value to your home through landscaping.

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Origins of the Term “Landscaping”

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

What is a Landscape?

A landscape is essentially the visible features of a land area, its landforms, and the manner in which they integrate with man-made or natural features. A landscape includes the physical elements of geophysical landforms like hills, mountains, and bodies of water like sea, lakes, rivers, and ponds. It also includes living elements of land such as indigenous vegetation. The human elements include different types of land use, structures, buildings, and transitory elements like weather conditions and lighting. what is a landscape?

Combining the cultural overlap of human presence and their physical origins, landscapes are a reflection of a living synthesis of individuals and place that is instrumental to national and local identity.  A landscape’s character assists in defining the self-image of the inhabitants and providing a sense of home. It is basically the vibrant backdrop to the lives of individuals.

A landscape is also viewed in terms of aesthetic appeal or as a pictorial depiction of an area of countryside, especially within the category of landscape painting. In addition, when the visual appearance of an area of land is deliberately enhanced by changing vegetation and contours, it is looked at as having been landscaped.

History of the Word “Landscaping”

The word “landscape” was initially printed in English in 1603. It has origins in Middle Dutch with the word “landscap,” which means region. The word also has origins in Old Norse (landskap) and German (landschaft). Landskip is the previous formation of the word in English. It should be noted that the suffix ‘ship’ has close ties to schaft, which means constitution, shape or condition.

The emergence of the term “landscape” came around the turn of the 16th Century to represent a painting with the primary subject matter being a natural scenery. Land, which has its origin in Germany, may be viewed in the sense of a place to which individuals belong. For example, Ireland is the land of the Irish. “Scape” as a suffix corresponds with “ship,” the more commonly used English suffix. The roots of “ship” are linked etymologically to sceppan or scyppan in Old English, which means to shape. ‘Schaft’ as a suffix is associated with the verb schaffen. Therefore, “shape” and “ship” are etymologically linked as well.

The contemporary form of the word has connotations of scenery and, as was previously mentioned, it emerged late in the 16th Century. This was when the word ‘landschap’ was made known by Dutch painters who used it in reference to paintings of inland rural or natural scenery. In 1598, the word ‘landscape’ was first recorded.

The definition of landscape reflected in dictionaries conveys both a general and a particular meaning: being a part of the Earth’s surface.

Types of Landscaping Over the Years

Below are some of the common landscaping styles:

• Japanese Garden Style

The Eastern philosophy and way of designing gardens has become increasingly popular in the Western world. Therefore, to enjoy the elegance and order of this garden style, a lot of individuals devote their backyard to it.

• Mediterranean Style

Similar to other designs, this style gets much of its atmosphere from the plants with which it is created. As new varieties of Mediterranean plants like palm trees adapt to different climates, the Mediterranean style is among the most popular designs used in different parts of the world.

• Southwest Landscape Design

This is a tremendously popular design that is created through the type of plants and garden décor. This style is mainly used in arid regions like New Mexico and Arizona. However, it is becoming more and more popular in different parts of the world. Again, since much of the atmosphere can be fashioned with hardscapes and décor, it is becoming more popular in areas which are typically unable to sustain the kind of arid plants used for this style.

• Cottage Gardens

This style was originally created to raise crops for family sustenance. Today, many individuals who use this landscape style still make provisions for herbs and vegetables to be used in the kitchen. However, these gardens have taken on a slightly new use and appearance. Initially, there was a small number of flowers, but now we are seeing more and more cottage gardens overgrown with beautiful arrays of flowers. cottage garden

• Tropical Landscape Design

Based on the type of plants and geographic location, this type of landscaping is typically grouped in the same category as the Mediterranean style. However, the plants usually have considerably larger flowering plants and leaves with intensely vibrant colors. Thick foliage is usually placed towards the back of flower beds to create the look of a dense tropical atmosphere in the garden.

• Formal Landscape Design

The formal landscape style is largely based on geometrical shapes and straight lines. Most of the time, this design is quite symmetrical. Plants are placed in order and pruned continually to preserve the formal effect.

It’s exciting to see how landscaping was conceived and how it has grown over time. At Hidden Creek Landscaping, we take great pride in keeping up with the trends, retaining knowledge of the tried and true landscaping styles, and perhaps most importantly, combining our creativity with customer visions to create new and exciting designs! If you are thinking of starting a landscaping project, contact us today. We can make your backyard dream a reality!

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How Does Winter Weather Affect Landscaping?

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

While winter weather can be beautiful to look at, it can have an ugly impact on your landscaping. Cold weather brings dry air, snow, and frost which can leave your plants and lawn looking run-down by the time the spring season finally arrives. Here’s a closer look at the effects of winter on landscaping:

Wind Damage
Wind can cause damage in any season, and in the winter, it can also be accompanied by snow. Blowing snow drifts can cause snow to pile up on some areas of the lawn, while other spots may see less accumulation. This can cause some areas to see worse damage than others. Winds can also lead to downed branches from trees and shrubs. Even if the plant is well-established, this damage can still kill it. To prevent this, pruning before the winter is important. During the season, you may also consider shaking the snow off or gently removing it with a broom.

Dry Air
Winter can bring plenty of moisture in the form of frost, snow, and ice, but the cold air that sticks around for months is dry and lacking in moisture. Just like our lips and skin dry out after exposure to the cold, plants will too. The dry air, especially when combined with the wind, can cause plants of all kinds to dry out. Evergreen trees are especially vulnerable to damage from the dry air. One way to reduce the negative effects is by pruning and fertilizing plants before the cold air sets in.

Heavy, Wet Snow
Snow can lead to several different problems for plants and lawns. One issue is snow mold growth, which occurs when snow that has accumulated on turf starts to melt. The mold growth leads to patches of brown and pink which kills the grass. In the spring, the grass may need to be raked and reseeded if the damage is too severe. Prevention is the key, and can be handled by properly aerating and fertilizing the lawn beforehand.

winter weather affects landscaping

Heavy snowfall can also damage plants and trees. As snow piles up on branches, it can cause the branches to sag and snap under the weight. Again, proper pruning of trees, shrubs, and other small plants is essential in the weeks before the cold and wet weather settles in. By keeping these plants pruned, it will be easier to prevent limb breakage.

Professional Care
One of the best ways to keep your lawn and gardens in great shape is by working with a professional landscaper. They have the right equipment, knowledge, and skills to maintain the look and quality of your landscaping throughout the year. Proper prevention can help reduce the damage that cold winter weather can do to your property.

When it comes to keeping your landscaping looking its best throughout the year, proper preventative measures and quality care-taking measures are key. By taking steps to protect your lawn and garden, you’ll be able to ensure that the cold weather doesn’t do severe damage to your landscaping during the winter months.

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Benefits of Having a Green Roof

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

hidden-creek-landscaping-green-roof-environmentally-friendlyThe environmentally friendly movement has been gaining momentum for several decades as people embrace “green” lifestyles. Numerous homeowners have discovered that the many benefits of a green roof make it possible to maintain an eco-friendly home, while simultaneously enjoying the luxury of functional fashion.

Benefits

Regardless of how environmentally conscious one is, he or she may still ponder the question “why have a green roof?” The multiple benefits speak for themselves, the most advantageous of which are outlined below:

Financial Return

Even though the initial expense of green roofs may be higher than their traditional counterparts, they usually pay for themselves within several years.

Extra Insulation

Green roofs create an extra layer of insulation for the dwelling. This means that the property owner can use less insulation, as well as less energy to cool and heat the home.

Sound Proofing

Another significant benefit of green roofs is the fact that they are essentially soundproof. This is highly advantageous for those who live in areas with a considerable amount of traffic or neighborhood noise.

Aesthetic Appeal

Green roofs almost always end up being the talk of the town. Because of their unusual appearance, they draw attention from neighbors and others in the community, and virtually everyone loves their beautiful and unique details.

Fewer Roof Drains Required

A green roof also enables homeowners to reduce the number of roof drains that are needed or even eliminate them entirely. Although this may not seem like a huge advantage, when drain cleaning time comes, most people find it a major benefit.

For the Environment:

Another advantage of green roofs is their impact on the “Urban Heat Island Effect.” In other words, the more green roofs that are found in an urban area, the lower the heat island effect. This leads to a decrease in costs for communities trying to meet greenhouse gas reductions and be more environmentally friendly.

Stormwater Effects

Green roofs also lower the costs necessary to handle stormwater effects. Green roofs have very little runoff, and therefore create additional space in local storm sewers.

Clean Oxygen

Finally, green roofs aid in the production of clean oxygen. With an increasing number of forests and landscapes being destroyed, the need for plants to manufacture oxygen continues to escalate. Providing a roof that can boost oxygen production is an ideal way to ensure that our planet stays green and healthy for many future generations.

Commercial Green Roof Benefits

Green roofs are beneficial for commercial building owners who are looking for ways to be environmentally friendly. For example, they expand roof longevity two to three times. Additionally, they reduce heating and cooling costs and offer businesses up to 15 LEED credits. It is also possible for certain commercial building owners to receive municipality and government incentives for installing a green roof.

Ultimately, there is a vast array of benefits associated with eco-friendly roofs. Therefore, those whose goal is to maintain an environmentally friendly home or business have everything to gain and nothing to lose by contacting a qualified professional to obtain an estimate on a new, beautiful, green roof.

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Landscape Master Planning: It’s All About Teamwork

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

1885_Scioto_Point-8When you have outdoor living space then you need to get creative if you’re going to maximise on its aesthetic value. Many times owners find it difficult to remodel as ideas aren’t always forthcoming. Landscape master planning is the creative and decisive use of the outdoors in order to bring the maximum benefit to the homeowner. The only stumbling block to contend with is finding an experienced landscape architect to convert your tastes and bare intentions into something tangible and worthwhile.

Landscape planning requires detailed planning. Factoring in things like privacy, entertainment, maintenance, drainage, and functionality isn’t easy but, with a plan, nothing is impossible. Ordinarily, it all begins with a site inspection to enable the architect to take note of existing features, most of which include the amount of sunlight, elevation, hardscape (permanent fixtures), the location of utilities as well as the general lay of the land. In most cases, your landscape planner will -on his own accord- proceed to conceptualize the overview and initial layout. However, it is customary to have a sit-down and discuss the client’s vision with the aim of drawing up a feasibility study.

A landscape architect normally employs environmental consultants, developers, engineers, regular architects, public agencies, and lawyers when executing their tasks. This ensures that everything is above board –compliance with municipal regulations- and handled by the best persons for the job.It is crucial to understand that, ideally, landscape planning isn’t a jigsaw puzzle where everything just fits into place miraculously. A huge part of the design process revolves around working with a preliminary design and finding ingenious ways to work with what’s on the ground. It’s about grinding alternatives and working out solutions that best suit the current and future uses of space. But overall, it’s largely about timing.

It is crucial to understand that, ideally, landscape planning isn’t a jigsaw puzzle where everything just fits into place miraculously. A huge part of the design process revolves around working with a preliminary design and finding ingenious ways to work with what’s on the ground. It’s about grinding alternatives and working out solutions that best suit the current and future uses of space. But overall, it’s largely about timing.

Contact us for any questions you may have or planning needs!

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How to Plan for Commercial Landscaping

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Commercial LandscapeInstalling landscaping around your commercial property can add value, function and visual appeal. Adding design elements like flowers, trees, pavers and boulders assist in creating an environment that can be relished for decades to come. Below are guidelines on how to plan for commercial landscaping:

Phase One — Establishing a Budget

Preparing your commercial landscaping budget should be done cautiously and should include thorough planning and setting realistic goals. To avoid certain pitfalls, create a solid budget that incorporates everything that is needed now but will also address your long-term objectives.

Phase Two — Meeting with the Landscape Designer

This phase involves meeting with a reputable landscape professional to discuss budget and customize a plan for the project. During the initial consultation, you should learn that commercial landscaping can be carried out in phases. For example, you could start at the front of the property and the sides and back can be added at a later date.

The consultation should also include a discussion about plant selection. This should include color preferences, likes and dislikes and options for screening and shading. Ensure that you clearly highlight what you need to have done and explain how you want the different areas to function.

With a clear understanding of your needs, the lawn care professional will draw up a blueprint plan and present it to you. This gives you another opportunity to interact with the landscape designer. You will be able to add or subtract elements of the design and ensure you are satisfied with the overall plan.

Phase Three — Installation

The phase involves the actual installation. You would have already discussed the time frame for completion of the project. Therefore, you can inform staff and customers about any disruption in regular operations. The installation should be done to the exact design specifications to ensure you will get what was agreed upon.

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Tips To Save For Landscaping Upgrades

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Screen Shot 2016-07-05 at 1.33.52 PMCreating a beautiful landscape can be done over time, especially if you are restricted by budget. There is no rule that dictates you have to put all desired elements in your landscape all at once. In fact, many breath-taking landscapes you see today took a while to come together. Below are some saving tips you can use to upgrade your landscaping:

Plant Research:

 Carrying out research is the best way to get started on any landscaping project. Formulate a plan that covers things like plants and flowers, hardscaping and lighting. Regarding flowers, to get the best results, choose the ones you want to incorporate into the landscape. After which, you can visit a few nurseries, tell them what you are trying to achieve and do a cost analysis to get an idea of what it will cost to get those plant into the landscaping design. Price out what you can comfortably fit into your budget at this time.

Plants are expensive and can take up a big chunk of your budget; therefore, it is important to spend a lot of time thinking about you options in the planning stage of the project. Although mature plants bring instant beauty to the space, buying a smaller version can save you money. Additionally, there are a number of nurseries that have sales on plants. Taking advantage of these sales is a great way to save for your landscape upgrade.

Getting Professional Assistance:

While this might not be automatically seen as a cost-saving tip, hiring a professional could save you from making expensive mistakes that could haunt you for years.

Creating the outdoor space of your dreams could take a while; however, there is no rush and you can work at your own pace. Saving and adding elements over time is a great way to go when creating your landscaping paradise on a budget.

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Spring Landscaping Tips To Kickstart The Season

Posted on by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Screen Shot 2017-04-04 at 10.02.21 AMWinter is long gone. The snow has melted and your yard looks like a tornado swept through it. Sprucing up your yard for the upcoming spring season should therefore top your list of priorities if you derive immense satisfaction from having serene surroundings. With a myriad of ideas causing a frenzy in your mind, that can prove to be impossible. However, there’s no need to panic though as all it takes is a few spring landscaping care tips and you’ll be well on your way to creating your ultimate spring paradise. You’ll be surprised by what can be achieved when you blend simple creativity with a little structure.

Compiling a ‘to do’ checklist of chores for the season is important. Consider:

Dealing with weeds once and for all. There’s no better time to apply herbicides to your lawn than now. Since weeds are a constant nag, getting rid of weeds at the beginning of the season ensures that you can then focus on chores that demand more regular attention. Whilst you’re at it, this is the perfect time to be filing up all those bare patches in your lawn. For the sake of uniformity, pluck overgrown lawn -together with the roots- and fill the blank spaces. If you have the same lawn seed that can work as well.

Killing those parasitic pesticides. Pests not only feed off plants but they can spread very fast and become a perennial problem. Check plants regularly for any unusual coloring or foliage damage. Once you’ve spotted a few recurring pests be sure to take these samples to a gardening centre for a diagnosis.

Experimenting with an indoor garden. Bring plants indoors to make your indoors airy, vibrant and colorful. You’ll want to incorporate evergreen climbers and vines as they don’t shed their leaves often.

Spring is a fun time of the year. It is a time to go out and enjoy the sun, and what better way to do that than by preparing for it in advance.

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