Hidden Creek Landscaping Blog

The Best Time to Fertilize Landscapes, Lawns, & Gardens

Posted on March 25, 2021April 19, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Fertilizing is an important part of lawn and landscape maintenance, but applying fertilizer at the wrong time can do more damage to a plant than leaving it alone.

What’s a gardener to do?

When to fertilize depends on your climate, soil, plant, and variety. In general, established plants should be fertilized in the spring and/or fall, while seedlings, annuals, and container plants may need consistent applications throughout the growing season.

Ready to fertilize?

Not so fast.

First, let’s go over a few basics:

Annual compost applications are sufficient for most established plants.
Slow-release fertilizers promote healthy, sustainable growth, while quick-release fertilizers can burn roots.
Under-fertilizing is always better than over-fertilizing.
Fertilizer is not medicine for sick plants; check for pests, diseases, drought stress, overwatering, and other problems before you use fertilizer.
Our recommendations are for general-purpose fertilizers. Nutrient-specific amendments, like chelated iron, can be applied whenever you have a confirmed deficiency.
Nutrient imbalance can be caused by soils that are too acidic or alkaline for the plant. Do a pH test to make sure your plants are able to use the existing nutrients in the soil.

Now, let’s get started.

Best Time to Fertilize: Lawns

Turfgrasses are split into two major categories: cool-season grasses and warm-season grasses.
Cool-season grasses grow more in the spring and fall, and may go dormant during hot, dry summers.
Warm-season grasses break dormancy later, and grow more during the summer.
Fertilize cool-season grasses late in the summer to early fall. This gives the lawn nutrients to recover from summer stress, as well as helping the roots prepare to store energy for the winter.
Fertilize warm-season grasses once in the spring after the first few mowing sessions, and again six to eight weeks before the first frost in the fall. This gives the lawn a boost when it breaks dormancy, and helps the roots prepare for winter dormancy.
For more tips on maintaining a lush, green lawn, see 7 Ways to Make Your Grass Greener.

Best Time to Fertilize: Established Trees & Landscapes

Newly-transplanted and established trees rarely need fertilizer. Most trees will have sufficient fertilizer from lawn applications, and the extensive root systems allow trees to access nutrients deep below the surface.
Newly-transplanted trees and shrubs should not be fertilized, because nitrogen will force them to grow new leaves when it should be focused on repairing the root system. Instead, add a few handfuls of compost into the ground when you transplant.
Established trees and shrubs should only be fertilized in early spring when soil tests indicate a deficiency. Annual compost applications are more beneficial to the plant and will help maintain adequate nutrient levels.

Best Time to Fertilize: Fruit Trees

Fruit trees have a burst of new branches, leaves, and flowers in the spring, followed by weeks or months of fruit development.
The ideal time to fertilize fruit trees is in early to mid-spring before bud break. This gives trees a burst of energy for green growth and blooming.
Keep in mind, established fruit trees may not need fertilizer.

Best Time to Fertilize: Vegetables

Most vegetables are annuals, so you don’t have to time your fertilizer applications to coincide with dormancy.
Instead, vegetables should be fertilized according to their overall health, with more or less time between applications depending on the soil quality.
Fertilize vegetables in sandy soil at the beginning of the season and every 3-4 weeks throughout the growing season if the plants begin to lose color or vigor. If plants are lush and green, avoid fertilizing or you may burn the roots.
Fertilize vegetables in clay soil at the beginning of the season and every 4-6 weeks throughout the growing season if the plants begin to lose color or vigor. Clay soils may also cause root rot, so make sure you are irrigating correctly before you try to correct growth problems with fertilizer.

Best Time to Fertilize: Annuals

Annuals are meant to bring a temporary pop of color to an established landscape or flower bed.
Fertilize annuals at the beginning of the season before planting, and every 6-8 weeks during the growing season as needed. Annuals are meant to be showy and colorful, so it’s important to fertilize if the plants begin to show signs of nitrogen deficiency, like yellow (chlorotic) leaves.

Best Time to Fertilize: Container Plants

Container plants are permanently restricted to a planter, container, or pot. These plants are watered more frequently than in-ground plants, which leaches nutrients out of the potting mix.
Fertilize container plants every 2-8 weeks, depending on the species and time of year. Flowering and fruiting plants will need consistent fertilization to support blooms and fruit set, while vegetative plants may be able to go 3-4 months without fertilization.
Even plants with a slow-release fertilizer in the soil mix will eventually require fertilization. Research your plant’s nutrient requirements and fertilize accordingly.

Best Time to Fertilize: Seedlings

Seedlings are in temporary containers while they grow large enough for transplant. In order to prevent damping off and other pathogens that attack seedlings, most seed-starting mixes are sterile, which means they have no nutritional value for the plants.
Fertilize seedlings once they have one set of true leaves. This is when the plant has used up the nutrients from the endosperm within the seed, and when the roots will start looking for nutrients in the soil. Seedlings grow very quickly, so it is important to start fertilizing as soon as the first pair of seedling leaves emerge in order to keep up with this growth.

For truly stunning landscapes, you need a reliable irrigation schedule, mowing schedule, and maintenance schedule. Hidden Creek Landscaping INC. provides professional landscape services for commercial and residential areas. Contact us today for more information.

5 Best Grass Species for Ohio

Posted on March 18, 2021April 19, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

A well-manicured lawn is the fundamental building block of curb appeal. High-quality lawns create a clean backdrop for colorful landscapes and lawn décor (and it may even increase the value of your home).

There are many factors that go into creating a lush, green lawn, but the first step is picking a grass species that thrives in the cooler climates of Ohio.

Ohio is evenly split between USDA zones 5 and 6, which makes it the ideal environment for cool-season grasses. Cool-season grasses have a bunching growth habit and have active growth periods during the spring and fall. The best grass species for Ohio are:

Tall Fescue
Fine Fescue
Perennial Rye
Kentucky Bluegrass
Bentgrass

So, which one is best for your lawn?
Let’s find out.

1. Tall Fescue

Tall fescue is a coarse, dense turf grass with long blades.
This species is tolerant of poor soil, poor drainage, drought, and light shade.
Tall Fescue: Basic Care

Tall fescue is a durable turf grass, but it still requires consistent maintenance:

Durability: Moderate-High
Mowing Height: 3.5”-4”
Irrigation Needs: 1”-1.25” per week
Fertilizer Needs: 3-5lbs of nitrogen per 1,000sq’
Common Pests/Diseases: billbug, fall armyworm, white grubs

Plant tall fescue in late summer through early fall so the roots have time to establish before winter.

2. Fine Fescue

Fine fescues are divided into three lawn-quality turf grasses:

Creeping Red Fescue
Chewings Fescue
Hard Fescue

These grasses are usually blended with tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass to form a shade-tolerant, cool-season turf mix.

Fine Fescue: Basic Care

Fine fescues have a soft texture and deep green color. They are the most shade-tolerant cool-season grasses, and they require less water and fertilizer than almost any other cool-season turf species.

Durability: Moderate-High
Mowing Height: 1”-3”
Irrigation Needs: .5”-1” per week
Fertilizer Needs: 3-5lbs of nitrogen per 1,000sq’
Common Pests/Diseases: billbug, fall armyworm, white grubs

Plant fine fescue in late summer through early fall so the roots have time to establish before winter.

3. Perennial Rye

Perennial rye germinates faster than other cool-season grasses, but it is slow to spread. The most common use for perennial rye is as part of a blend with more vigorous species, like Kentucky bluegrass.

Recent advances with perennial rye have made it more tolerant of drought and foot traffic. Perennial rye is more tolerant of alkaline soils than fescues or bluegrass, which makes it a popular choice for homeowners with high pH soils.

Perennial Rye: Basic Care

Perennial rye is generally part of a cool-season blend, but it can also be used as a stand-alone turf, although it can be high-maintenance and may go dormant without proper care.

Durability: Moderate-High
Mowing Height: 1.5”-2.5”
Irrigation Needs: 1.25”-1.5” per week
Fertilizer Needs: 2-4lbs of nitrogen per 1,000sq’
Common Pests/Diseases: thrips, grubs, sod webworms, brown patch, dollar spot

Plant perennial rye in early spring or early fall. Fall is best so the roots can become established before winter.

4. Kentucky Bluegrass

Kentucky bluegrass is one of the most popular turf grasses in Ohio.

Kentucky bluegrass has a deep blue-green color and a soft, sturdy texture. Although Kentucky bluegrass is a cool-season grass, it has a warm-season growth habit. Rhizomes spread underground to create a thick sod that fills in quickly and holds up to heavy foot traffic.

This grass is often mixed with perennial rye and fescue to give the turf more durability. However, Kentucky bluegrass is only slightly shade tolerant, and it takes three times longer to germinate than perennial rye. The roots are more shallow than other turf species, so it is more sensitive to drought and fertilizer deficiencies.

4. Kentucky Bluegrass: Basic Care

Kentucky bluegrass can be a high-maintenance turf, but the deep emerald color and soft carpet texture are worth the extra water.

Durability: Moderate-High
Mowing Height: 2.5”-3”
Irrigation Needs: 1.25”-2.5” per week
Fertilizer Needs: 3-6lbs of nitrogen per 1,000sq’
Common Pests/Diseases: grubs

Plant Kentucky bluegrass in early fall so the roots have time to establish before winter.

5. Bentgrass

Bentgrass is a specialty turf grass that is mostly used on golf courses.
This grass is an extremely low-growing, mat-forming turf that requires consistent maintenance. This discourages most homeowners from attempting to use it in their lawns. However, it creates a manicured, luxurious image, which makes it an attractive option in some areas.

For a more lawn-friendly bentgrass, try varieties bred for residential purposes. They are a little taller and require less maintenance.

Note: Bentgrass can become invasive in lawns and is a common weed in lawns with a fescue/bluegrass blend. Do not use bentgrass as a blend with other grasses.
Bentgrass: Basic Care

Bentgrass is the most high-maintenance grass on our list, but if you love lawn care, this may be the turf for you.

Durability: High
Mowing Height: .5”-.75”
Irrigation Needs: 1.25”-2” per week
Fertilizer Needs: 2-5lbs of nitrogen per 1,000sq’
Common Pests/Diseases: sod webworms, grubs, cutworms, dollar spot, brown patch

Plant bentgrass in early fall so the roots have time to establish before winter.

Want a show-stopping lawn, but not sure where to start? We offer year-round lawn and landscape maintenance. Contact us today for more information.

How to Keep Weeds Out of Your Garden

Posted on February 26, 2021March 5, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

One of the questions we hear the most from gardeners is “how do I keep weeds out of my garden?” No one likes pulling weeds and would rather spend their time enjoying their garden rather than maintaining it!

There are some simple steps you can take to minimize the impact of weeds, take care of them safely if they show up, but most importantly to keep them out in the first place. Not every yard is the same, though, so a consultation with a gardening expert from Hidden Creek Landscaping would be a good place to start.

What are some good ways to take care of weeds in my garden?

A quick surf of the internet will return many tips and many pieces of advice on how to best control weeds in your garden. But which are the right ones, the ones that will do the job right? We’ll examine a few here.

Are homemade weed killer sprays effective?

Recipes for homemade weed killers abound on the internet. Many begin with a vinegar base and then add in all kinds of things like lemon juice, dishwashing detergent, borax, salt, bleach, and so on. They may market themselves as natural or organic, often as an alternative to chemical solutions.

Unfortunately, like most folk remedies, they aren’t a sure bet. While they may kill off some weeds by making them wither and turn brown, they don’t get rid of the weeds for good. More likely than not, they’ll be back in a week or two.

It’s also important to remember that the health of your soil is paramount to great gardening, and saturating it with salt and vinegar may not be the best idea

How about commercial weed killers? Are they safe?

There are many commercial weed killers out there that heavily market their effectiveness. Many gardeners shy away from them because of fear that they may contaminate the soil. However, they can be effective if used properly.

It’s often best to consider them a last resort for weeds that can’t be dug out or for invasive species. It’s critical that you follow all directions and not overuse them, since adding any chemical to your soil will change the balance.

Ok, so how do I prevent weeds in my garden in the first place?

This is the real question that should be asked! If you can succeed at preventing weeds in the first place, you are well on the way to avoiding the question of whether or not to use herbicides as weed control.

The problem most gardeners face is that all the work they do to properly prepare their soil means that the great work they’ve done to help their flowers flourish works just as well on weeds. A good step is to mitigate the ways weed seeds get into your garden to start with.

Does mulch matter?

One of the easiest ways to prevent weeds from getting into your garden is by using good, shredded wood mulch. Shredded mulch has greater density than wood chips, so do a better job of keeping the weeds out of your soil.

Placing a thick layer of mulch around your plants also reduces the amount of sunlight that reaches the weed seeds in the soil. One good tip along the same lines is to put down a thick layer of newspapers around the plants that you then put the mulch on top of.

What about landscape fabric?

While landscape fabric has its uses, weed prevention in the garden isn’t one of them. While it keeps down any existing weeds that you place it on top of, it creates a clean palette for new weeds up above.

The dirt, debris, and leaves that accumulate on top of the fabric are just what new weeds are looking for. Plus, the roots of the weeds will grow down into the fabric, making them more difficult to remove. In general, landscape fabric is best used to mitigate weeds along paths and walkways, but are poor preventers of weeds in the long run.

Are there any good tricks to keep weeds out of vegetable gardens?

A good trick to keep weeds out of your vegetable gardens is to use grass and leaf clippings to keep them in check. They perform a similar function as mulch by keeping sunlight away from seeds in the soil. It’s also a great way to get rid of your yard waste!

Grass and leaf clippings provide much-needed nutrients to the soil. Using landscape edging around your garden beds will help keep grass and weeds from infiltrating the vegetable garden.

How do I know what the best strategies are for my garden?

We are here to help! Give us a call at Hidden Creek Landscaping for some expert advice. We’ve been helping homeowners keep their weeds at bay for years, and are considered one of the region’s top residential landscaping companies. We’d love to help you make your garden the best on the block!

7 Ways to Make Your Grass Greener

Posted on February 19, 2021October 27, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

There is nothing better than looking out the window of your home and seeing a lush lawn with bright and healthy green grass. The good news is that you don’t have to be an expert gardener to have the best-looking lawn on the block!

The truth is that all you need is the proper mover and some pro tips that will help you make your grass greener. Regular maintenance is always the key. One of our expert landscapers can guide you through the steps needed to make sure your lawn is always in top-notch shape.

What are some things I can do to make my grass greener?

First and foremost, know that a perfect, green lawn takes dedication, consistency, and a ton of work. You’ll need to make sure the grass is mowed at the right height, properly fertilized, and water to exact specifications.

The right plan will help you know how to spray, fertilize, and properly cut your grass. Below are some great ways to get started on the right track.

1. Use composite waste to create a greener lawn

Composite waste is simply the biodegradable kitchen scraps you probably just throw in the trash. Put it to better use! Process it and add it to the soil to act as a fertilizer, encouraging healthy growth of your grass.

You can add the composite all over your yard for an even look, or as patches to take care of specific areas. Make sure that you water your lawn thoroughly after putting down the composite.

2. Treat your soil right!

Understanding the makeup of your soil will ensure that you give it the right nutrients to get the right you want. One example of a soil treatment that is highly effective is cornmeal. Not only is cornmeal a natural herbicide, but it also provides needed fertilizer and controls pests.

Another great treatment is Mycorrhizal fungi, which helps the roots of your grass attach properly to the ground and attract the right organic nutrients straight into the root.

3. Give your grass the right cut

One of the easiest mistakes to make when it comes to lawn care is incorrectly cutting your grass. Learning how to properly mow is critical in making your grass greener. A trim lawn that is kept at a steady height is key to giving your lawn the perfect look.

Proper trimming creates healthy growth and roots. The right way to cut is dependent on the kind of grass you have since different types have different optimal heights. Knowing what you’re working with is the first step to take in making your plan.

4. Recycling works!

Everyone knows that recycling is a good thing, but have you ever heard of grass-cycling? It turns out that one of the best fertilizers for grass is the grass itself. By leaving the clippings in the grass they feed the roots.

Not only does it help improve the soil ph levels and textures, but it also provides essential nutrients for the healthy growth of grass. It will both benefit your lawn and save you time that would be spent cleaning it up.

5. Keep the watering regular

It’s commonsense that grass needs the appropriate amount of water to thrive, but to make it truly shine you’ll want to make sure that it is watered regularly. But not too much! By having a smaller, regular watering cycle, you allow the water to more thoroughly seep into the soil instead of running off.

When you over-water, you fill the lawn with water, causing the good nutrients to run away and drive off helpers like worms, who work hard behind the scenes to keep your grass healthy!

6. Give it some air. Aeration, that is!

A healthy lawn loves free air circulation. When the soil is compacted, it creates a firm obstacle to fertilizer and proper water absorption. Depending on the type of soil and age of the lawn, it may need to be manually opened up.

An aerating machine or handheld tool does the job perfectly, opening up small holes that allow insects and air to pass through. Annual aeration is a great way to keep your grass healthy year after year.

7. Treat your lawn right!

Weeds not only make your lawn look unsightly, but they also make it unhealthy! You’ll want to put a weed control system in place so that the grass isn’t competing with weeds for water and nutrients.

A good feed and weed system gets rid of the unwanted plants while providing the fertilizer to make your grass look great.

What’s the best way to get started making my grass greener?

The best way to start is to consult with the pros! Give us a call at Hidden Creek Landscaping to see how our lawn maintenance specialists can get you on the right track to a better-looking lawn.

Irrigation Maintenance

Posted on January 27, 2021February 24, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

If you’ve gone through the expense and effort of installing an irrigation system in your yard, it only makes sense to keep it in proper working order! By taking proper care of your irrigation system you’ll save money on your water bills and make sure that it is performing properly and as expected.

To get the best return on your investment in an irrigation system, you’ll want to create a maintenance plan that keeps your system operating optimally.

Hidden Creek Landscaping irrigation experts are on hand to help you create a maintenance program that not only keeps your yard looking great but also makes the best use of your irrigation system.

What are some best practices when it comes to irrigation maintenance?

The first step in establishing a maintenance program for your irrigation system is to determine the watering schedule that is best for your yard in different seasons. The needs of your lawn and landscape are different in the spring than in the middle of July.

Seasonal adjustments

When the seasons change and temperatures drop in the fall, watering needs likely change again. Likewise, a shady part of your lawn has different needs than the sunny side. By adjusting for different seasons and in different zones, you’ll optimize your system to best meet the needs of your landscaping.

Why waste water with leaks and misdirection?

Changes in the schedule as the seasons change present a perfect opportunity to make sure that your system hasn’t developed issues. You could be wasting significant amounts of money if there are:

leaks
broken lines
misdirected sprinkler lines

If one part of your lawn is covered in puddles and another is completely dry, you have a sure sign that there is leakage or another problem. A quick inspection can tell you where the issue is and allow you to make the necessary repairs.

What are some routine maintenance items I should perform?

There are some key and easy routine maintenance tasks you can perform regularly to make sure that your irrigation system is running in peak condition. A monthly inspection could reveal damaged or clogged sprinkler heads that, left unchecked, could cause significant damage or waste down the road.

Water your flowers, not your asphalt!

Making sure that there is no sprinkler run-off will keep you from watering your driveway instead of your flower beds. Adjusting your sprinkler heads as plants and your lawn grows will make sure that the system is doing what it was meant to do – irrigating your landscaping.

Reducing sprinkler run-off saves you money by preventing water waste but also helps to prevent sending pollutants into the storm drain system. The same is true when it comes to blocked or obstructed lawn sprinklers. Your car doesn’t need to be watered, but your lawn does. Readjust the heads regularly to make sure they are watering the right thing.

Pressure problems

If the pressure is too high, you could be creating high pressure misting. This occurs when the water turns into tiny droplets in the air that can be carried by the wind away from the spot that it’s intended to be watering. Installing a pressure device will help you regulate water pressure and prevent this common problem.

Only water when necessary

Likewise, installing a rain/freeze sensor will save you both water and money. There is no need to water your landscaping if it’s already raining, and watering when the temperature drops below freezing could cause damage to your plants. By installing a rain/freeze sensor you can optimize your system to prevent these occurrences.

Take advantage of the terrain

Finally, make sure that your irrigation system is set to take advantage of the features of your yard. If your sprinkler is set on a slope or you have clay soils, change your irrigation system to cycle and soak.

It takes water much longer to seep deep into the soil if it is on a slope or the soil is heavy clay. The general rule of thumb in these cases is to have your system set to 7-minute intervals to make sure that water has time to get to the right places before running off. Cycling on and off in this manner makes sure that your lawn is getting the proper amount of moisture.

I’m interested in installing or optimizing my irrigation system, what should I do?

Make the best call you’ll make all year! The Central Ohio weather patterns can be difficult to predict, but the irrigation management pros at Hidden Creek Landscaping know exactly how to install them in the right way to function perfectly in our climate.

We specialize in automated irrigation systems that are designed to enhance your landscaping and lawn that could be struggling in the Ohio weather. By using an automated system, you’ll save both time and water, saving you money and allowing you to make better use of your yard.

Give us a call today to see how we can help you with your irrigation maintenance and installation needs!

Residential Landscape Ideas

Posted on January 20, 2021February 24, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Maybe you’ve spent the cooler months surfing for residential landscape ideas, maybe you know how you want to use your outdoor space, but don’t know how to get started. Maybe you know exactly how you want it to look, and just need to fill in the details.

No matter where you are in your quest for the ultimate backyard space, chances are good you’ve looked out the window and can imagine all the possibilities. The winter months are a great time to start turning your vision into a reality, the perfect time to create a master landscaping plan and design that will fulfill your vision and meet your goals.

We’re here to help! The design experts at Hidden Creek Landscaping know exactly how to take your vision and turn it into a reality.

What are some ideas and trends that can help guide my design ideas?

The best thing to do when thinking through your residential landscape design is to start by writing down a list of all the different ways you’d like to use your yard. For instance, are you looking more for personal relaxation, or a space to entertain? Do you need to include areas for the kids to play, or perhaps take into consideration the needs of your pets?

The ways you want to use your yard will drive the residential landscape ideas that you should consider. We’ll get into some of the trends in residential landscaping below.

Create the perfect outdoor entertainment space
Maybe you already have a great outdoor gathering or seating area, but want to expand your patio or include an outdoor kitchen. Expanding your outdoor entertaining footprint so that you can accommodate more friends, family, and guests is always a great idea.

You can create new patio spaces by connecting different parts of your yard to the main walkway, giving your guests different areas and conversation spaces. When blended in with your home’s architecture and surroundings, discrete patio areas can create a seamless outdoor entertaining space.

Add a pool or spa
One of the best parts of going on vacation is enjoying the pool or spa at your destination. Why not bring that experience to your backyard!? Enjoy a vacation-like experience without having to get on a plane.

No need to go big with the kind of massive pool and spa complex you’d see at a resort. Small pools fit perfectly in small backyards, and when part of a comprehensive landscape design, can leave plenty of room for outdoor entertainment. A current trend is to thoughtfully integrate the spa and pool into the environment in your backyard, creating a seamless look as if it has always been there.

Finish your outdoor room with a pergola
Pergolas are a great way to complete the feel of your outdoor space by giving it the perfect structure and finishing touch. Pergolas make a strong statement as an architectural feature and help define the living spaces in your landscape design.

Depending on the design, pergolas can also provide some protection from the elements, extending the amount of time you can spend outdoors. Plus, pergolas are very good at creating a sense of intimacy and comfort that will make you feel like your outdoor space is an extension of your living room.

Extend your time outdoors with enhanced landscape lighting
You may have some of the more typical landscape lighting already in place, maybe lighting your walkways, entrances, or driveway. A great landscape design will think bigger, and landscape lighting technology has come a long way to the rescue.

New fixtures that feature color-changing lights allow you to create scenes that celebrate holidays, events, or even the big game. New architectural accent lighting systems are perfect for providing definition and dimension to your home at night, highlighting structure and texture. Giving your trees discrete uplighting can make them glow and serve as illuminated focal points at night.

Landscape lighting not only provides enhanced visibility, but also enhances play, entertainment, and cooking spaces, maximizing the amount of time you can enjoy your yard.

Create a space that makes the best use of your property
Not every yard is the same, so it’s important to create a design that takes the best advantage of your property’s features. If you have a great view, design a yard that complements it. A pool with a view, or a spa that is set in a private garden setting. A patio seating area that is built perfectly into a hillside.

By taking advantage of your property’s best features, you can create a backyard oasis that seems like it has been part of the landscape forever!

How do I get started building the perfect residential landscape?

Give us a call at Hidden Creek Landscaping! Our design experts are the best in the region when it comes to working with homeowners to build the perfect residential landscape that suits their needs and fits their budget.

We look forward to helping you create your perfect backyard!

New Year, New Landscape Project? If You Can Dream It, We Can Design It

Posted on December 18, 2020November 30, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

As we head into the colder winter months, it’s the perfect time to start planning next year’s landscaping projects! Your dream landscaping could be right around the corner.

There is no reason not to make your landscaping dreams come true. The design experts at Hidden Creek Landscaping know exactly how to take your dreams and turn them into reality, no matter the budget.

The new year is a great time to take on new projects and start the ball rolling so that your new, dream landscaping is ready for you to enjoy when the temperature starts to rise. Whether it’s renewing the plantings, installing new trees and shrubbery, or a complete yard makeover, we are Central Ohio’s trusted partner for landscape design and residential landscaping services.

How do I get started designing a new landscaping project?

The first step when considering a new landscaping project is to gather some ideas. You’ll want to get a good idea of how you envision using your space. The easiest way to do this is to look around for inspiration.

If any of your friends, family, or neighbors have recently undertaken a makeover of their outdoor space, consider what they did as a starting point. Perhaps they installed an outdoor kitchen or firepit. Maybe you like the look of their garden beds and plantings. A new pergola may look perfect in your yard too!

Think about if there is anything specific you like or have seen, and take a look online for further inspiration. You may just find the perfect element via a web search. One good idea is to keep a list of your thoughts and links to any photos or web pages that include things you’d like to add to your landscaping design. With good organization, you’ll be in much better shape when it comes time to execute.

Once you have a great inspiration, you’ll want to evaluate your wants and needs. With luck, your inspiration and needs will perfectly align. Things to consider are if you need space for your children, areas for pets, spots that need specialized lighting, and the like. You’ll also want to think about whether or not you want to install things like water features, pools, firepits, or gazebos.

One tip is to start with a list of all the things you need, another list of reasonable wants, and then match the two to see what is truly practical in your space. While we all want to get everything to make the dream come true, practical limitations like space and specific needs should be prioritized. With luck, everything will line up perfectly.

Once I have my list of wants and needs ready, what’s next?

Your next step is to get in touch with a professional landscape designer, like those at Hidden Creek Landscaping. We’ve helped homeowners like you realize their dream yards for over 20 years. We know that our beautiful work speaks for itself, and can’t wait to help you design the yard of your dreams.

The first thing we’ll do is work with you to develop a timeline. Some landscape projects take much longer than others. If you are installing a pool, for instance, the lead time will be far greater than if you aren’t adding any hardscape features. In some cases, prefabricated elements could move the project along faster.

Winter is the best time to get your project lined up and ready to go, especially if you’d like to enjoy your brand new patio in the spring. By putting together the timeline well in advance, you are guaranteed to have your dream yard ready to enjoy when the weather starts to improve.

Once the timeline is in place, it’s time to get to the nitty-gritty of design! Our team are experts in current trends, materials, and have a wealth of experience ready to make sure that your project will be a success. We’ll sit down with you and go through that list of wants and needs, helping you make decisions regarding style and materials.

We’ll help you refine your vision and create a pathway to making your dream come true. Armed with a realistic timeline, solid design, and working together, we’ll make sure that the project stays on schedule.

I’m ready to make my dream landscaping come true!

We love helping homeowners like you turn their dream landscaping into a reality. Our reviews are glowing, and our beautiful work speaks for itself. Give us a call and we’ll provide you with references, then get to work on your design.

Our experts will work closely with you to not only make your vision a reality but also to create an outdoor environment that enhances your lifestyle and home value. We look forward to being your trusted partner, and help make your dreams come true!

Best Tactics for Snow and Ice Removal

Posted on December 11, 2020November 30, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

As the daylight hours grow shorter, it’s only a matter of time before winter weather makes its first appearance of the season. We all have visions of a winter spent drinking hot chocolate in front of a blazing fire as a fresh blanket of snow creates a winter wonderland outside. Once the snow stops falling, though, it means it’s time to get out there and clear the sidewalks and driveway!

It’s important to be very careful when you approach a physical activity like snow removal that uses muscles and stamina you may not be ready for. Many people manage to injure their backs or even worse when they overexert while shoveling snow.

Your best bet to avoid injury and to really enjoy the winter weather is to let the professionals do the heavy lifting. Hidden Creek Landscaping offers snow removal services that save you the backache, lighten the burden of snow removal, and let you keep enjoying the hot chocolate in front of the fire!

Is there a best approach when it comes to snow removal?

The best tactic when it comes to snow removal is to approach it incrementally. This is the best way to avoid overly strenuous activity. If it’s a light, dryer snow, it’s a good idea to shovel your driveway and walks in different stages throughout the storm.

If you remove an inch or two of snow at a time, you avoid moving the added weight that comes with bigger quantities of snow. Even if you have to do it several times during the storm, you will save yourself the extra exertion of moving bigger volumes.

When you get down to the shoveling, make sure you save your back by remaining aware of the bend in your knees and keeping your back straight. Avoid twisting from side to side, and don’t try to pack your shovel too heavily with snow. When it comes to snow and ice removal, taking it slowly but methodically is your best bet.

Don’t forget to get in front of the warm fire regularly! Frequent breaks are the key to avoiding excessive exhaustion.

While it might feel good to get out in the cool air, if you are elderly it’s best to leave the heavy lifting to the neighborhood kids, or even better, to the pros at Hidden Creek Landscaping. Take it easy and enjoy the snowy landscape from the comfort of your home.

Above all else, stay tuned in with how you are feeling. It is very easy to cause yourself a serious injury by underestimating how physically taxing snow shoveling can be and the extreme strain that snow removal can cause to your system.

Shouldn’t I just use a snowblower?

Snowblowers are a great weapon in the arsenal when it comes to removing large quantities of snow in a short amount of time. Especially if the snow is very wet and heavy, they can be much better than shoveling.

Before the winter sets in for good, give your snowblower a thorough inspection to make sure that all of the parts are in good working condition and ready to tackle the snow.

When using a snowblower, always be sure to use caution to prevent serious injury. Always keep the shields in their proper place and keep your hands and feet away from the moving mechanisms. And be prepared for the exertion – using a snowblower can be more physical than you expect.

As you move down your driveway or sidewalks, watch out for stray objects. If debris gets churned into the snowblower, it could throw objects into the air, not to mention cause serious damage to the machine. The chute must be pointed away from people, vehicles, and buildings to ensure safe operation and avoid injury to people and damage to property.

Is rock salt effective in melting ice?

Rock salt is most effective after you’ve removed the top layers of snow, directly onto paved or concrete surfaces. Once you’ve gone through the effort of removing the snow, throwing down some rock salt will help make sure that driveways and sidewalks don’t become dangerously slippery.

When applying salt, take care that you don’t overshoot the paved surfaces! Rock salt can be deadly to the beautiful plants that you spent all summer cultivating.

How can I get help with snow removal?

Of course! When it comes to strenuous activity like snow removal it’s best to call in the pros. By engaging a snow removal service like those provided by Hidden Creek Landscaping, you’ll save yourself the physical strain, make your life easier, and let you enjoy the snow instead of sweating through it!

Give us a call to learn more about our snow removal services and how they can help you avoid the backache and enjoy the season. You’ll be surprised at what a difference it makes.

Benefits of Gardening and Landscaping While Stuck at Home

Posted on November 27, 2020November 30, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

While many of us are stuck at home doing our best to social distance and make the most of stay-at-home orders, some are taking to gardening and landscaping as an outlet for creativity and energy.

According to the Ohio Nursery & Landscape Association, there has been a significant “increase in consumer interest in horticulture, house plants, improving curb appeal, upgrading/renovating backyards for staycations, edible gardening, cut flowers, and other green industry activities.”

Not only is gardening a great way to use the new-found time, but there are also many benefits that make it a great way to handle the uncertainty of our times. Spending time outside can be a great family activity, or if you prefer a great way to find some peace and quiet alone.

We’re here to help! At Hidden Creek Landscaping we understand the benefits that come with increase time outdoors. Our experts are available to help you design a plan that makes the most of your efforts, helping you to create the perfect outdoor oasis.

Why should I consider gardening and landscaping while stuck at home?

Imagine being outside, the fresh breeze whispering around, the sun warm on your face. Connecting with the earth by patting the soil around a freshly planted flower. And think of the satisfaction of personally creating your own vegetable garden or a lush outdoor oasis that gives you space and comfort to relax outdoors.

As we grapple with the effects of the pandemic and rethink how we spend our time at home, gardening and landscaping have never felt so beneficial and rewarding as now. Gardening is a great way to regroup and relax during stressful times. It has many benefits that you may appreciate even after “social distancing” becomes a thing of the past.

Plus, if you plant and nurture a vegetable garden, one of the best fringe benefits is a steady supply of food! Farm-to-table has been trendy at restaurants for some time. Now you can have your own harvest-to-table experience right at home.

Your shelves and pantry could overflow with fresh produce. If you plan properly, a steady supply of food like kale, cabbage, brussels sprouts, collard greens, and the like could be available even through the winter.

Are there any health benefits to gardening and landscaping?

Without question! Depending on the type of gardening you do, you will at a minimum achieve a level of exercise. It’s not running a marathon, but all kinds of gardening and landscaping require a certain degree of physical activity.

Digging, kneeling, raking, and lifting things over and over again increases the heart rate and blood flow, all while improving your range of motion and working out your muscles. Since gardening and landscaping don’t have to be high-intensity workouts, they are a perfect form of exercise for those who may have physical difficulties, are out of shape, or have other physical challenges.

It’s also a great way to build hand strength and dexterity. Gardening and landscaping conditions hand muscles, keeping them agile and strong. One tip is to alternate between the right and left hands while gardening so that both get a great workout.

Gardening and landscaping have also been shown to improve immune system functions. When you are washing the dirt out from under your fingernails it may not seem likely, but gardening and landscaping is one of the “cleanest” activities you can do. The bacteria commonly found in garden dirt has been proven to help alleviate symptoms of allergies, psoriasis, asthma, and is even known to decrease anxiety levels.

Are there mental health benefits to gardening and landscaping?

Indeed there are. A recent study found that participating in activities like gardening and landscaping can reduce the risk of dementia in older people, and it is known that gardening is beneficial for those with depression and stress.

The therapeutic properties of planting and watching things grow helps us to be in touch with our environment, creating a beneficial response and bettering our mental health.

Gardening and landscaping also decrease stress levels. It has been shown to decrease cortisol levels and improve your mood. Cortisol is commonly known as the primary stress level. By decreasing your stress level, you become more relaxed, further boost your immune function, and make you more energetic and productive.

Also, the confidence and satisfaction of watching your harvest grow, your plants flourish, and your yard look the best it ever has is a decided mental health benefit!

We’re here to help! If you are looking to get started but don’t know how, or if you just need some advice on design or the best plants for our region, the experts at Hidden Creek Landscaping are available to assist you in creating the perfect outdoor space to spend time at home.

Five Reasons Great Landscaping Increases The Value of Your Home

Posted on November 13, 2020November 30, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

It is conventional wisdom that a well-landscaped home increases property value. In fact, according to the American Society of Landscape Architects, great landscaping can increase your home’s value by up to 20 percent! Why not make sure your property is in great shape, an easy way to increase the value.

When you ensure that the landscaping is well-designed and well-maintained, you will maximize the return on your investment. Having the right design and the right materials installed by an experienced landscaper makes all the difference, guaranteeing you will see a great return on your investment.

The expert designers at Hidden Creek Landscaping are here to help! We will work with you to create a great landscape design plan that fits any budget and is sure to increase the resale value of your property.

What are some reasons great landscaping increases property value?

There are many reasons great landscaping increases the value of your home, but today we’ll focus on five major points.

While not the only reasons, what we discuss in this blog will illustrate why having great landscaping is critical if you are planning on selling your home.

Great landscaping reduces the time it takes to sell your home
A home with great landscaping will help sell your home faster for a variety of reasons. Most homeowners overlook making the outside of their homes look as great as the inside, but the fact is that first impressions are most important.

When you take the initiative and give the exterior of your home an extra pop, you attract more buyers. And homes that sell quickly generally sell for more money than properties that linger on the market. Great landscaping sets your home apart from the competition and leaves a lasting impression on potential buyers.

Great landscaping is a sign that you take proper care of your home
Potential buyers will see the great landscaping at your home and will automatically understand the care that you have put into building and maintaining a private oasis. They’ll more than likely think that the care you’ve put into maintaining the outside of your home extends into the interior as well.

Preventive outdoor maintenance means that you have probably made repairs both inside and outside your home before they became a problem, meaning fewer headaches for the potential buyer down the road. Since buying a house is the largest investment anyone will ever make, the more you can put a buyer’s mind to ease, the better.

Great landscaping increases curb appeal
A well-designed landscape sends a strong message to passersby, neighbors, and, above all, potential buyers that a property is well-maintained. It also contributes to the charm of the neighborhood. An area that has well-manicured lawns creates an impression of affluence and sustainability that attracts new residents. By having one of the nicest yards on the block, the curb appeal of your home can only increase the value of your property in the minds of potential buyers.

Great landscaping adds living space
While many of us think of our living space as solely being inside the walls of your house, great landscaping can quickly illustrate more possibilities. A custom pool, and outdoor kitchen, and an inviting firepit are just a few of the elements that well-designed landscaping can add to your property, increasing both the value as well as the living space.

Having a serene setting for you to kick back and relax with your family and friends is a perfect way to add living space, and the investment will pay for itself over and over again.

Great landscaping makes your home unique
It doesn’t take a ton of imagination to throw some grass seed in the front yard, plant a few shrubs, and call it a day. But if your property features a great landscaping design that is flourishing and well-maintained, you are sure to set yourself apart.

It may be just the thing that makes the difference in the mind of the buyer who is weighing their options. By creating a beautiful outdoor space you set your home apart and increase its value.

Do I have to have a big budget to make a big difference?

The good news is that you can achieve great landscaping without having to spend big! By having a good design that is well-maintained, you are well on your way to increasing the property’s value.

While bigger projects like hardscapes, outdoor kitchens, and pools have a more significant impact on value, even simple things like regular mowing and pruning, in conjunction with a good design, will go a long way in making your home shine.

We’re here to help! The experts at Hidden Creek Landscaping know how to make your property the envy of the block. Give us a call today to see how we can get started increasing the value of your home!

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