What is the best way to water my newly planted shrubs?
When it comes to watering trees, shrubs, and flowers there is not a simple formula. Temperature, rainfall, soil type, amount of sun/shade, and mulch will all play a role in the watering schedule of plants. A key factor, however, is the soil texture. Clay soils can hold up to three times more water than sandy soils. Try one of these two methods to check if you need to water. (more…)
I just had a new lawn installed. Now what?
After years of helping homeowners install their lawns, we have developed the following list of recommendations to assist you in making your lawn a beautiful, green reality. The condition and appearance of your lawn is now entirely up to you, and with the following tips, you’ll be well on your way to a beautifully landscaped home. (more…)
Does planting depth matter?
Yes, absolutely. If installed below grade (or surface level) most plants will suffocate or drown resulting in failing health and eventual death. In general plants should be installed with approximately 20 % of the root ball above grade. Do not cover the exposed root ball with soil. Instead use a thin layer of mulch (one to two inches thick maximum) to help retain moisture and inhibit weed growth.
Should I be concerned about lichen growing on the trunks of my trees?
Lichens are not at all harmful to trees. In fact, they are fascinating organisms. They can be used to dye wool and to monitor pollution levels…some are even edible (careful, though…a few are poisonous!).
What is meant by “root girdling” and how can it be prevented or remedied?
In simplest terms, root girdling is encircled roots at or below the surface of the ground often due to the constraints of the container in which it has been living that tend to strangle the plant. At the time a plant is installed into a landscape, it is very important to prune the roots in order to remedy and prevent girdled roots. If steps are not taken at the time of installation, the tree will likely suffer a slow decline and premature death. It will also be susceptible to falling due when wind or storms introduce stress to its weak root system. Root girdling results in a weak support system for the tree. Trees with root girdling often lack trunk flare at the base of the tree where it enters the ground.
I have weeds growing up between my perennials and shrubs. Is there a product I can use that will kill the weeds, but not the plants I want to keep?
Unfortunately, the only way to get rid of weeds in your beds is to carefully spray the weed and not the plant with an herbicide like Roundup. Roundup is Glysophate, save your money and buy the generic stuff, its exactly the same. (more…)
What repellents work best to keep woodchucks and other destructive animals out of my garden?
There’s no easy answer to that one. There are a number of products on the market, and people report various results. Predator urine, especially fox or coyote, has become very popular in recent years. It creates the illusion that predators are nearby, and that’s a powerful deterrent. It’s also all-natural. There are chemical and physical barriers, plus traps, woodchuck bombs, and scarecrows. Varmints are a perennial problem and there’s no single solution.
Are there any guarantees for Hardscape or plants?
Yes. We warrantee any hardscape project for 3 years. We also guarantee the plants for a full year after they were planted. We pride ourselves on quality work and standing by what we do. That is why we have so much repeat business. (more…)
When is the best time to split and separate my perennials?
The best time to split perennials is in the spring or fall on a cool, cloudy day. Hostas are the most commonly split plant. They are very hearty plants that can take a lot of stress. Hydrangea on the other hand are very sensitive to being split and cannot stay out of the ground for more than ten minutes in any kind of heat. For more information you can visit our links page.
Where do you buy your plants and shrubs? Is there a guarantee?
We buy our plant material from Bailey’s Nurseries
in Minnesota. We carry Endless Summer, First Editions, Proven Winners and Trees Are Cool. Earthscape stands by our work and does not charge for taking out the dead or bad looking plant and replacing it with a “healthy” one. No matter what type of plant or tree it is, or if the plant isn’t completely dead and is a flaw in your landscaping, it will be covered under our warranty.
Where can I get a design created?
We offer design services and can provide you with a design for your project. You may also choose to have an outside designer complete a design/plan. We will work from any design/plan.
Do I need a design for my project?
Not all projects need a design. The scope of the project to be completed will determine the need for a design. Enlarging a planting bed or adding simple elements to the landscape can be done with a verbal description or rough sketch. As the complexity of the project increases, such as with the re-landscaping of a backyard after a pool is installed, a design/plan may be a valuable tool in helping you visualize the project. (more…)
Is there a charge for estimates?
No, we do not charge for estimates. We do not charge for plans for job we are going to do all of the work at. We don’t create plans for a fee or for just selling the plant material.