Columbus Home Landscaping Archives

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!

Planning Your Commercial Projects for the New Year

Posted on December 21, 2018November 30, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

The new year is almost here, have you started thinking about your resolutions? One of the things that shouldn’t be overlooked with the new year and season are your commercial landscaping goals for 2019. Here are some steps for planning your commercial landscaping projects for the new year:

Plan

The best way to start a commercial landscaping project, or any project at all, is to know what your end goal is. Realistically, you want a landscape that is pleasing to bystanders and ups the curb appeal of your business or space. Aside from the basics, what else do you want? Do you want a space to entertain clients outside, with a sitting area or gazebo? Do you want a water feature to give your project a feel of elegance? The more ideas you have about your space, the more we can help you make your dreams into a reality. You can check out our online galleries, or pull photos from other projects that you have seen to give us a better idea of what you are thinking. The more info you give us, the better off we will be to start designing!

Design

We structure our commercial landscaping projects into three distinct parts. First, we help you design a plan. At Hidden Creek Landscaping, we have over two decades of combined experience with designing and implementing commercial spaces. We make innovative plans and carefully craft each project to fit your space, preferences, and requirements. We factor in everything from topography, vegetation, draining, water, and climate conditions to make sure that everything is accounted for. Some of the design services that we offer include master planning, consultations, green roofs, irrigation designs, hardscape element planning, construction documents, illustrating and 3D renderings and planting design ideas. After our design phase, you will have a comprehensive and detailed plan of exactly what your project will look like upon completion and just how much it will cost. From start to finish, we will help you plan every meticulous detail of your commercial landscape.

Build

The next part of the commercial design process, after you have your comprehensive plan and design, is to build. Our company has produced countless showcase designs and we have an overwhelming amount of commercial landscape experience. We use computer-aided design software to help create fast and accurate price estimates with our construction projects. Some of our construction services include paving installation, masonry, irrigation installation, water features, lighting, shade structures, green roof installs, softscapes, seasonal displays, retaining walls, swimming pool and more. Best of all, if you are interested in a service not currently listed on our site, contact us today and we will explore your project to see if we can accommodate your needs!

Maintain

Once your project is planned and executed to perfection, it is time to think about long-term maintenance requirements. Before we even begin the process of designing, we will ask you about your long-term goals and expectations. We know that your property is unique and will have its own set of maintenance requirements. We will work with you to make a long-term plan to keep the health and appearance of your space healthy and beautiful. We offer maintenance services that will help keep your new project thriving all year around. Whether its snow removal, lawn fertilization, fall cleanups, or seasonal displays, we’ve got you covered. Our crew is experienced with ground maintenance and committed to upholding the highest standards in the industry. We take a proactive approach to maintaining your space.

Why should you choose Hidden Creek for your commercial projects?

When it comes to your commercial project, you don’t want to put your renovation in the hands of just anybody. At Hidden Creek, our reputation speaks for itself. We have a 97.5% client retention rate over the last decade. We are locally owned and operated and our work consistently outperforms that of our competitors. We use the most modern and up-to-date technology in the industry and are committed to creating and maintaining the perfect space for you.

If you are interested in planning a commercial renovation project in the new year, contact us today. You can also check out reviews and photos of our past projects on our online gallery. When you choose to work with Hidden Creek Landscaping, you are putting your project in the hands of experts that are committed to excellent service every step of the way. Don’t wait, start your 2019 commercial landscape projects today!

Our Favorite Fall Landscaping Features

Posted on October 19, 2018November 30, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Just like many of you, we love fall! The air is crisp, the weather is cool, and the seasons are changing before our eyes. And do you know our absolute favorite part of the season? All of the fall landscaping projects that you can add to your outdoor space! Here are a few of our favorite fall features:

There’s No Place Better to Sit Than a Fire Pit

What’s better than snuggling up by a fire pit while the weather gets cooler? Adding a fire pit to your home will help you spend more time outside and is the perfect way to entertain guests during the fall. What’s better than sharing memories and stories by the light of the fire underneath the stars? If you add a firepit to your home, you are sure to enjoy hours of outdoor entertainment and break up the monotony of staying inside all day due to the cold weather.

Perfect your Patio

A patio is also a great way to entertain in the cool months. If you deck your space out with comfortable seating, lighting, and heating, you will have a brand new area to entertain guests and enjoy your yard. While a patio can be enjoyed all year round, you will absolutely love having this space at your disposal during the autumn months. Grab a bottle of wine and some blankets and enjoy the evening on your patio space.

The More the Merrier

One of the most scenic aspects of this season is the falling and changing leaves and colors. Simply put, the more plants you have the more you get to enjoy the reds, yellows, and oranges that signify fall. Now is the time to add additional foliage to your yard. Adding flowers, trees, and shrubs will make your space beautiful now, and will also help it flourish in the springtime.

Potted Plants

In the spirit of adding more foliage, do not underestimate the power of potted plants. Adding rustic looking pots around the area and filling them with fall-friendly flowers it a great landscaping project. These are easy, DIY projects that can make your space more inviting and can help your colors coordinate properly.

Pumpkin Displays

Pumpkins are a trademark sign of Autumn. Invest in some pumpkins to display both in your front and backyards. Choose varying sizes and craft a display that gives your home a cozy and festive feel. You can mix things up by carving a few with the kids and adding different fall elements like hay and corn to your displays. Pumpkins are a super easy way to get the desired look for the season. You can also add to this effect by adding gords of various shapes and sizes.

Time to Mulch

Mulching can be a pain, but getting it out of the way while its cool will save you hours of hard work in the harsh sunlight. Mulching your yard has another benefit too; it will make all of your plant colors pop! Your plants and shrubs will need a little TLC for the harsh winter that is just around the corner. This will give them the nutrition and sturdy base they need to survive frigid temperatures and cold weather. Your yard will surely thank you as it thrives with this new mulch job.

Let There Be Light

Since the days are growing shorter, you are going to need to compensate by adding additional lighting. Add some soft, inviting light to your front and back porches to help with entertaining. Invest in smaller outdoor lights around your plants to show off your landscaping at night time. Adding lighting around walkways and paths is always a great idea for both safety and aesthetic. The days might be shorter and the nights might be darker, but this additional lighting will give your space a cozy, homey feel.

If you haven’t already, it’s time to fall in love with fall! There are so many outdoor projects and touches that you can add to your space to make it warm, welcoming, and ready for Autumn. If you have ideas for a landscaping feature, don’t forget to consult the experts at Hidden Creek. We will have your space up in running in no time at all!

The Top Pool Trends of 2018

Posted on August 31, 2018November 30, 2021 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

A swimming pool is the perfect way to bring fun and luxury to your home. As of late, there are many new trends that you can use to make your pool perfect for your space. Check out these different pool trends that have become increasingly popular this year:

1) Darker Colors

Pools that have darker tiling and darker edges have become very popular recently, and can drastically improve the aesthetic of your area. Dark blue and green flooring has the added advantage of making your pool look deeper than it is, and the colors tend to be more soothing to the eye. If you want your backyard to have a calming vibe, a darker pool is for you.

2) Pool Landscaping

While your pool may look like the center of your outdoor area, the landscaping around your pool can make a huge aesthetic difference. Pool landscaping is one trend that has been making its way into the home decor and landscaping industry because of how beautiful it can make the space look. A few simple planters and along neatly constructed concrete can give your pool a fresh and vibrant feel

3) Pool Ledges

A pool ledge is a shallow part of the pool that protrudes inward from the edge. Pool ledges can give your pool the additional space, and can even be used to place your loungers on a hot sunny day. A pool ledge also works well for children, since it gives them a safe and shallow part of the pool that they can play in. Adding a ledge can give your pool and overall more dynamic look.

4) Infinity Pools

While infinity pools are often associated with luxury resorts and spas,they have become a more common household trend recently. An infinity pool is designed so that the water line of the pool looks like it is touching the water line of the natural body near it. These pools can make the entire landscape look incredibly scenic and beautiful.

5) Smart Pools

With how much technology is being integrated into our homes, it is no surprise that smart pools have come forth as a trend does this year. Smart pools use a combination of devices to improve their efficiency and make the process of maintaining the pool a lot easier. Smart pools can help you clean your pool, adjust temperature controls, turn on lighting with just the click of a button.

6) Monochrome Pools

Minimalism and monochrome tones are a classic pooling trend. Sticking to this theme is a great way to give your home an added touch of sophistication. A pool with white or light blue tiling or spa colors tend goes well with this theme in a classy, yet functional way. When trying to achieve the monochrome look, make sure that you don’t add any bright colors, since that can take away from the theme that you are going in for.

7) Elevated Pools

Elevated pools that are made slightly above the ground. This trend is becoming more and more popular for those who want to go in for a unique design that is sure to grab onlookers’ attention. Elevated pools add a nice modern touch to your outdoor area. Innovative placement and structure can give your pool its own unique flare.

8) Compact Pools

Pools don’t always have to span over a large area. Sometimes compact pools can add just as much grandeur to your home. Pools that are smaller are ideal for those who don’t have as much space for a full-scale pool. A smaller pool fits well with a landscape design that has seating areas, a grill to barbeque and any other kind of outdoor essentials.

9) Pool Additions

Things like fountains, water jets and other kinds of pool decor and add-ons can help personalize your pool. Finding additions that match the theme and color scheme of the rest of your home is key. Your landscape designer is the best person to talk to about this since they can give you a creative insight into how you can achieve your desired look.

10) LED Pool Lights

Making your pool look as bright as it can seem to be a big trend in 2018, and LED lights are the perfect way to be able to do so. LED lights are available in an incredibly wide range of colors, giving you lots of creative freedom with the look of your pool area. Using LED pool lights tends to be a lot safer than other kinds of pool lighting. There are several different kinds of LED lights, some of which come with app-based automation that enables you to change the color of the lights, as and when you please.

If you are interested in any of these awesome pool customizations or want to learn more about getting a pool in general, contact your experts at Hidden Creek Landscaping today!

Summer Outdoor Patio Events

Posted on July 20, 2018July 8, 2020 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

Patios are the perfect summertime hang out spot. With the warmer weather and longer days, it’s a great time to get ready for patio gatherings and events.

Your outdoor space is an extension of your home, so it should be comfortable and cozy. You want to be sure that it is spacious enough to entertain guests. Most of all, your patio should meet all of your family’s needs and fit in with your personal style.

Patio Ideas for the Summer

If you are looking for ways to spend more time outside, consider renovating and refurbishing your outdoor space. Before you get started, think about your desired style and theme. The style can be casual, modern, traditional, colorful, rustic, simple, or any combination of the above. A few possible decorating themes are seaside, tropical, floral, or old world charm.

Whether you are redecorating or building it from scratch, be sure to plan ahead and think about how to best use your space. Consider how much seating you need, where the entry point will be, and how to make it accessible. Think about the primary uses of your patio, such as whether it will it be for lounging, dining, or entertaining.

There are many ways to add structure to your patio. To make it cooler and more private, you can build a pergola or a privacy wall or fence. A pergola, a type of gazebo made from cross beams and lattice supported by tall pillars, is a perfect way to protect you from the glare of the sun and can serve as a good place to hang lights, plants, and decorations. Umbrellas can also be used to keep you cool on hot summer days.

Decorating Ideas

Once you have a basic plan in mind, you can begin to think about the design details and colors. For summertime, consider using bold colors like teal, red, orange, and yellow. A colorful design will keep your space fun and vibrant. If you are looking for something more relaxing you might stick with natural materials such as wood, stones, and bricks.

As you select your furniture, look for items that are comfortable, waterproof, and sun resistant. Durable and weatherproof, outdoor furniture can be left out and enjoyed for months. The fabrics won’t fade in the sun. They feel soft and comfortable and are filled with quick dry foam so you don’t have to worry about bringing them in when it rains. There are many beautiful pieces of outdoor furniture available in just about any color and style.

Lighting is an important consideration if you plan to use your space at night. String lights, lanterns, bistro lighting, a metal chandelier, torches, candles, outdoor fireplaces, and fire pits are some clever ways to incorporate lighting in your outdoor living space.

To make your outdoor space into a beautiful garden getaway, include plants, flowers, and landscaping. You can incorporate water by adding a fishpond, a mini waterfall, a sunken spa, or a pool. To make it into a relaxing paradise, include a hammock, lounge chairs, loveseats, a wrap around deck, a rock wall, or stone arches.

If you plan to entertain a lot, you will want to incorporate a few additional items, such as extra seating, countertops, tables, outdoor appliances, and a bar. Bringing out linens, table runners, and benches will make your guests feel comfortable and at home.

Finally, add some finishing touches to make it feel cozy, such as colorful outdoor area rugs, pillows, cushions, and decorations. Have fun and be creative with the décor. Keep it casual and relaxing or add some exciting patterns and bold colors. And don’t forget to install an outdoor sound system so you can listen to music.

Summertime Events

Once your space is ready to go, there are many summertime events you can plan. Use it in the mornings for your morning coffee and breakfast. Use it for meetings with friends or colleagues, for family barbecues, picnics, and small get-togethers.

Have some friends over for outdoor cocktails and serve fun refreshments such as fruit punch, wine chilled on ice, and a charcuterie board. For a larger gathering, consider having people over a fourth of July backyard barbecue, drinks, and desserts, or a sit-down meal.

It’s possible to use it for even larger celebrations, such as graduation parties, engagement parties, or outdoor weddings if you have enough space. To keep things simple, prepare food in advance and set up a self-serve and bar and small seating areas. This will help make your guests feel comfortable and relaxed. Get creative with themes and centerpieces and decorate the surroundings with plants and flowers.

Kids love to be outside, so patios are excellent places for kids’ birthday parties. Include a burger bar, and for dessert try a s’mores bar or make your own ice cream sundae station. Decorate the trees with lights, set up water balloons, a bubble station, a tree swing, and some games to play. They are guaranteed to have a blast.

Consider something out of the box like a potluck dinner or barbecue, an outdoor movie night with popcorn, a theme party, or an impromptu game night. Most of all, have fun and be creative. The possibilities are practically endless.

Remember, summer is short so make the most of it. Using your patio is a great way to spend more time outside enjoying the sunshine before the cold of winter returns. To help add to the ambiance of your outdoor space, call 614-777-4254. Most of all, have fun and be creative today. Together, we can build your dream backyard!

Steps For Effective Landscape Planning

Posted on July 6, 2018June 21, 2018 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.

Ways to Make Landscaping Pop at Night

Posted on June 8, 2018May 30, 2018 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

How can you make your landscaping stand out while you’re hosting night-time gatherings this summer? The installation of landscape lighting accents some of the most important features and can help to create your perfect yard. Follow these design tips and tricks to get the most out of your landscaping on these upcoming summer nights.

Take the Whole Property into Consideration

The entire property should be seen as a cohesive unit, and you have to consider all the landscaping components to achieve the best results. Everything from the bushes to the trees and flowers must be considered. Also, you should look at the paths that guests will walk along. This will create a pleasing environment as well ensure safety as they walk at night. Another thing to consider is your home’s architecture and any other features such as decks, patios, and gazebos to get the best idea of how you should follow through.

The Differences between Down, Up and Cross Lighting

You have three different types of landscaping lighting. First, there’s what is referred to as down lighting which literally means the light is pointed downward. Downward lighting has become a popular choice for lighting on trees and architecture. This style of lighting brings a certain feel of class with it. Next, you have uplighting, which is where the light is angled upward. This is a popular addition for buildings-you can place the lighting on the ground to focus them upward, which adds depth to an otherwise boring wall or pillar. Finally, you have cross lighting. This lights a focal point from all sides, and it achieves a unique look that can play well with specific styles and features.

Accent, Task, and Overall

Along with lighting options, other considerations must be made. For example, overall lighting does exactly as it says. It lights up the whole space, which is good for those gathering areas with your guests. You also have task lighting, which gets used for specific intentions and purposes. For example, you might use it as a way to illuminate a walkway. Finally, you have accent lighting. This lighting comes with the specific purpose of accenting certain areas of the yard during the night time. Ultimately, it depends on your design goals for the property.

Security

Landscape design might also take security into consideration for the night design. For example, you might install lighting above the garage door or close to the back door to make it more difficult for people to sneak onto the property. Much of this lighting will be motion activated, and it has the potential to scare away unwanted burglars. At the least, this lighting serves the purpose of alerting you inside of the home. Additional lighting can also protect from the risks of tripping or falling at night. For example, pool areas, pathways and steep drop-offs could all have hidden obstacles in the night that could be dangerous. The addition of a few simple lighting elements can make your home overall much safer.

Use Different Color Lighting

Changing the color of the lighting elements you choose is a good way to mix things up and spruce up your home. In fact, to make your yard pop at night, you might employ blue lighting, purple lighting, and even red lighting as a way to switch up the landscape and give it a refreshing look. You might even design an awesome night garden with a well-lit path. These fun and different uses of light will allow you to express yourself through your home design and really make it your own.

Creating a Night Garden

Ever wished you could add some mystery and romance to the landscape? Night gardens tend to solve all these problems. You might use the following low-maintenance plants that still achieve the perfect effect under the moonlight:

Meadow rue
Lamb’s ear
Star jasmine
Brachycome
Flowering tobacco

Plants that bloom or release fragrances during the night time can be called “noctiflora,” and it will spice up almost any occasion. Light flowers and foliage will show up the best in a night garden. While having the moonlight hit the garden just right can light it up, it isn’t always required. You might even add your own lighting to the location with torches, candles or even regular landscape lights. It depends on the mood you want to achieve, which is what you should always consider most.

Define the Purpose

Before you ever decide to invest in landscape lighting for night time, you should ask yourself what you want to achieve through the illumination of the backyard. Maybe you want the mood to have a soft and romantic feel, or maybe for security reason, you want to illuminate your garden. You might also choose this method because you want to highlight the best features in the yard. For example, maybe you have this elegant water fountain or this Japanese Koi fish pond, which is one of the popular trends of the industry today. You might, for example, illuminate the bridge walk that span over the pond, or you could illuminate the pond waters so that your guests can watch the fish even at night. It all depends on what you want overall for your home.

These are some of the ways that you can build a brilliant space at night on your property. When choosing a company, you want to pick one that has an established reputation for quality. For all of your garden questions, concerns, or needs, don’t forget to contact the experts at Hidden Creek. Together, we can work together to create the dream landscaping that you’re envisioning.

Pet-Friendly Landscaping

Posted on May 11, 2018May 21, 2018 by Hidden Creek Landscaping

How to Create a Pet-Friendly Yard

You love your pets and even consider them as members of your family! But, unfortunately, sometimes it is difficult to maintain a perfect yard with pets roaming around it.

Across central Ohio, you can see countless yards that have all of the familiar signs: big holes in the ground, dead spots in the grass, dog poop everywhere and flowers that have been trampled on. These yards have all of the bare essentials to be a beautiful space, but the owners have seemingly let their animals take them over.

The following are some ideas you may consider if you are looking to create a pet-friendly landscape.

Consider Hardscaping

Hardscaping may be something you want to consider if you have a puppy who likes to get his paws dirty. This will create a barrier between your dog and your garden. By designing your yard with hardscaping, you will be able to remove some or all of the spaces where your dog can dig. Whether it is stone structures, retaining walls, or paved paths, Hidden Creek can help you design and install these features to protect your space.

Pick up the Poo

This isn’t so much a design idea as it is a simple suggestion. Many yards and lawns are ruined because there has been so much pet waste accumulated in them over the years. You would be surprised how many families and children don’t like to enjoy their yards simply for this reason. And, guests don’t feel comfortable walking through your yard and enjoying the space unless it’s clean.

You may want to consider regularly cleaning up after your pet in your yard. It will make your yard both more enjoyable and healthier for everyone. Make “pooper scooper the yard” a weekly chore for you or your kids, and protect your beautiful yard!

Keep your Herb Garden Safe

Pet-Friendly Landscape

Many homeowners like to grow little herb gardens in their yards. This is a great way to provide your own additions to healthy meals to enhance the flavor.

Unfortunately, though, dogs and cats also seem to love herb gardens. Our little friends like to chew on and eat soft and small plants. Avoid this by creating a barrier around your herb garden. You could consider protecting your herb garden with chicken wire, a stone wall or another hardscaping feature.

Steer Clear of Poisonous Plants

A well-designed garden will usually feature a number of different plant species. When planning your garden, though, you need to keep your animals in mind when choosing plant species. There are some commonly-used landscape plants that are poisonous to dogs and cats when consumed.

Some of these common species include lilies, azaleas, and tulips. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruetly to Animals (ASPCA) has an extensive list of these plants which you may consult. Take care when choosing plants for your yard, and make sure your landscape professional is aware of this concern.

Pick a Hearty Grass Species

A beautiful, lush, green lawn is what most homeowners desire. However, dogs can be problematic when considering your lawn maintenance. As mentioned before, dogs can frequently burrow into lawns, which causes damage. Pet waste can also cause dead and yellowing spots in the grass. It can be difficult to balance the needs of your lawn and the needs of your pet.

Despite all of these concerns, if you still want a green lawn, then consider carefully which species of grass you choose. Some species of grass are heartier, and they can take the beating of a dog’s usage a little better. For a species recommendation, schedule a consultation with one of our landscape professionals.

Fence in your Dog Yard

Pet-Friendly Landscape

Oftentimes, the best solution to having animals and a beautiful landscape is allocating one part of your yard for them and another part for more intricate gardening or entertaining space. This separation can often best be done with fencing.

One solution would be to have a smaller backyard area where you allow your dogs and cats to roam that’s fenced in, and a separate space for entertaining and gardening. Or, if you don’t have that much space in your backyard, you can have a fenced in area in the back and then place more beautiful and delicate plants that could potentially be harmed by animals in your front yard.

Place Delicate Plants Away from your Pets

Features like flower beds, herb gardens, and succulent plants need to be placed away from where your pets go. As these features tend to be more easily harmed, they should be positioned in an area that will not be frequented by your animals. As mentioned before, this could be accomplished with fencing, or with a water feature or hardscaping.

In areas where your animals will be, you can place sturdier plants and landscaping features. In these spaces, hardscaping or ground covers would be great options, as well as larger shrubs or small trees.

Time your Irrigation Appropriately

In many cases, irrigation is necessary to maintain a beautiful garden. Plants have different moisture requirements to grow and be healthy. Irrigation allows you to control and create the ideal environment to keep your garden beautiful.

However, many times irrigation systems are set on timers, which can actually be problematic if you have pets. Don’t set your irrigation to run immediately before or during the times your pet will be in that area of the yard. When soil and lawns are wet, they can be more easily damaged by your animals. Not to mention, this could set you up to have muddy paw prints tracked into your home!

Creating a pet-friendly landscape is definitely doable, but does require some extra planning beforehand. Usage by your pet is simply another factor to be taken into account during the landscape design process. Make sure to communicate this need to your landscaping professional when creating your ideal design.

Have questions? Contact Hidden Creek Landscaping and together we can build a yard that is great for you and your furry friends!

Will Landscaping Increase My Home Value?

Posted on February 16, 2018November 30, 2021 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.

Constructing 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.

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.”

SaveSave

BLOG