Flowers in the Fall: Growing Pansies

Posted on October 3, 2011 by FTLandscape

If you’re looking for beautiful fall flowers, pansies come in deep purples, oranges, yellows and blues. But their best feature is that they can withstand the frost, survive the winter and bloom again in the spring!  Now is the perfect time to plant them because pansies need time to strengthen before winter weather takes over.

How to Plant Pansies

  • Buy Icicle pansies (named after their ability to survive frosts)
  • Choose a plant that is short and compact for best results
  • For longevity, plant when the soil is between 50-65 degrees
  • Find an area of your yard that gets mostly sun, but some shade too
  • Plant each pansy about 6-9 inches apart
  • Water them immediately after planting and then as needed
  • Enjoy the vibrant colors!

 

History of Pansies
Pansies have been grown by flower breeders since the 1800s. The leaves are heart-shaped and edible, being high in vitamins A and C (don’t eat them from gardening stores because they may have been sprayed with chemicals). Pansies are often used to garnish salads and soups to flavor honey, make potpourri and can even be used to dye fabrics.

Benefits of Pansies
Not only are pansies beautiful, but also conducive to gardening on a budget. They are a wonderful value given that they bloom during the fall and again in the spring, surviving the cold winter temperatures. What will you be planting in your garden this Fall? Chrysanthemums, often referred to as mums are another popular fall flower.

For more information about fall gardening, click here. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

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Fall Gardening: Mums

Posted on September 18, 2011 by FTLandscape

Chrysanthemums, which are also commonly referred to as mums, are a beautiful fall flower that can be planted in cooler weather. Mums come in a variety of dazzling colors and shapes. From white to orange to red to purple, you can outfit your garden and landscaping in whatever colors you desire. At Finishing Touch Landscaping we have created a guide on how to plant mums and add some festive fall colors to your yard.

How to Plant Mums
1) Go to your local gardening store. There are many different types of mums which each have their own unique look. While a mum may seem like one single bloom, it is actually the result of hundreds of smaller blooms of tiny flowers called florets. Try and select several different types of mums with different blooming times (early to late fall) to enjoy months of colorful flowers.

2)Find a location in your yard that gets plenty of sunlight (at least 5 hours) and then plant the mums in well-drained soil. To plant the mums, dig a whole that is deep enough to fit the mums container. You can add nutrients to the soil if you would like. Then remove the mums from their packaging, loosen up the roots a bit and set them in the ground, returning the soil back in place.

3)After the mums are planted, water them daily for the first week. A more relaxed watering schedule can be maintained after the first week. About an inch of water a week should be sufficient.

4)To encourage the mums to have even more flowers, pinch off the dead blooms, a practice called deadheading. By pinching off one dead bloom, two will grow in its place, giving you a decadent plant filled with flowers.

For more information about fall landscaping, click here. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

Posted in Autumn Landscaping, Fall Gardening, Fall Landscaping, Planting Mums | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Storm Cleanup and Lawn Renovations

Posted on September 14, 2011 by FTLandscape


In the recent aftermath of Hurricane Irene many yards were filled with fallen trees and debris. After any large storm or natural disaster home owners and businesses often experience damage to their landscaping. At Finishing Touch Landscaping we specialize in lawn renovations after storms.
Tips on Getting Started
If you have a lot of debris around your yard take pictures of the damages before attempting to clean anything for insurance purposes. While you’re walking around the yard be diligent about spotting any power lines that have fallen down or hanging branches. Please be careful and refrain from using tools that you are unfamiliar with during the cleanup process. Certain items, like fallen trees or hanging branches we recommend leaving to landscaping professionals.

Broken Branches
If your trees have been damaged during a storm due to lightening or wind, tree removal experts can help determine the best solution. If the tree is still alive, then minimal pruning of select branches may be enough to keep your tree healthy and your yard safe.

Fallen or Dead Trees
If the tree has been damaged beyond repair then it should be removed. The easiest method of removal involves trees that have enough space to fall safely without hitting anything. If a damaged tree is close to your property or any power lines then more careful methods of removal are necessary. Typically a tree climber will cut off branches one-by-one and use rope to guide them to the ground as they fall. Once the branches have been removed then sections of the trunk are cut down until the tree is small enough to safely fall to the ground.

Stump Grinding
After the tree has been cut down, we can use a stump grinder to remove the tree stump and the underground root segments. The stump grinder is a mechanical method that turns the wood into sawdust and produces minimal to no damage in the immediate surrounding area. This will not only remove an unsightly stump but also make additional landscaping and plantings possible. Stumps that are left unattended are susceptible to diseases.

Retouching Landscaping
It is not uncommon for landscaping to be damaged in severe storms. We can retouch landscaping and make it look even better than before. If there was heavy rainfall re-mulching and/or re-sodding my be necessary, flowers may need to be replanted and so on.

For more information about our lawn renovations after a storm click here. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

Posted in Broken Branches, Fallen Trees, Lawn Renovations, Retouching Landscaping, Storm Cleanup | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

Landscape Lighting For Your Home

Posted on September 8, 2011 by FTLandscape

Illuminate Your Property

Landscape Lighting

Pathway and Walkway

 

Landscape lighting is both functional and visually striking. Lighting increases safety, highlights beautiful landscaping features and creates a unique, enchanting ambiance. At Finishing Touch Landscaping, we have seen homes and businesses transformed with the right lighting design. Some of the most popular types of lighting are:

Pathway Lighting
Lighting around pathways is not only beautiful, but an important safety feature as well. The lighting helps people easily move around when it is dark outside without tripping or falling and also protects your plants, keeping people off your lawn or gardens. The most important aspect of pathway lighting is proper spacing. We can help you choose lighting that is cost efficient, balancing the strength of the light so that only a reasonable amount of lights are needed.

Accent Lighting
Lights can be placed around your home and throughout your yard to highlight beautiful architectural features or landscaping when it’s dark outside. We can add pools of light to your home in a variety for colors to create a unique atmosphere and add curb appeal to your property at night. Common focal points are flowers, tress, or entrance-ways. Accent lighting also has the added benefit of providing extra security to your property, deterring any possible trespassers.

Water Lighting
If you are lucky enough to have waterfalls or pond features on your property, landscape lighting can make them look even more alluring at night and add an enticing appeal to your surroundings.  Light fixtures can be placed behind the waterfall to illuminate the water as it falls, at the top of the waterfall, or even underwater.  For ponds, a popular choice is to place a spotlight on the surface of the pond to create a moonlight effect on the water and highlight nearby plants.

The options for landscape lighting are endless. Lighting can be used for pathways, waterfalls, ponds, patios, decks, swimming pools, to accent landscaping and more. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

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How to Design Your Dream Backyard Patio – Part 2

Posted on September 6, 2011 by FTLandscape

Having space to entertain your friends and family outdoors will not only add value to your home, but transform your social life as well. So let’s get started! In the first part of How to Design Your Dream Backyard Patio we covered factors such as the patio location, size and shape. In the second part we will cover patio materials, design and accessories:

Patio Materials
There are many different patio materials available which range in price, quality and durability. When designing your patio, you can choose from materials such as concrete, stamped concrete, pavers, brick, natural stones, travertine and more. While concrete is the least expensive, it needs the most upkeep in the long-run. We typically recommend pavers because they are in the middle price range, far more durable, require minimal upkeep and can create beautifully unique designs.  Natural stones are the most expensive option because of the irregular shapes of the stone, but are a high quality investment that brings nature right to your doorstep. Remember, choosing your material is more than just focusing on price and durability. It is also important that the material accents your home and fits in to your current aesthetic.

Patio Design
After determining the patio location, size and shape, there are still additional design elements to consider. A stone wall outlining the perimeter of your patio adds dimension to your design and offers additional seating for guests, with the wall doubling as a bench. Some patios are designed on raised terraces. Raised terraces are a great solution for homes where the doorways are above ground level. This allows for a gradual transition downwards and provides a more grandiose atmosphere.

Patio Accessories
Lastly, don’t forget about your patio accessories. There are many options to choose from including the basics (a grill and patio furniture) and countless extras such as a patio swing, bench, hot tub, fire pit, and more. Accessorizing your patio is a fun and creative process. There is no limit to how lavish you can get with waterfalls, ponds, outdoor kitchens and terraces as design options.  Landscape lighting is another important accessory, especially if you plan on entertaining at night. Landscape lighting prevents people from tripping while adding charm and beauty to your patio.

For more information about patios, click here. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

Entrance to a Patio

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How to Design Your Dream Backyard Patio – Part 1

Posted on September 2, 2011 by FTLandscape

Building a patio can be a simple and affordable way to create outside entertainment space for your home. Whether your space is small or large, designing your backyard patio is an easy process. At Finishing Touch Landscaping we have put together a guide to help you build your dream patio:
Location of the Patio
Most patios are built next to the home and close to the kitchen to make hosting dinners and outdoor barbeque’s more convenient. When choosing a space for your patio some elements to consider are privacy, sunlight (too much or too little), shade, wind and the views offered by your backyard. The best location is not always perfect in every aspect, but there are fixes that can be put into place. For example, we can help you hide unattractive views and eliminate privacy concerns by adding a beautiful screen or some additional landscaping.  Tree branches can be cut down to allow more sunlight, or new trees can be planted to create more shade. Remote patios, are another option. These patios are built away from the home, deeper into the backyard. Most remote patios have outdoor kitchens since it will be far away from the home and less convenient for cooking.

Patio Size
A successful patio can be very large, or small depending on your needs. There are several factors that affect our size recommendations for the patio such as the space available, patio furniture and accessories. If you already have your patio furniture first set it up outside to see how much room you will need.  Then pull the chairs away from the table, to mimic people getting up and sitting down from your table. Ideally a patio would be sized to allow for an additional foot and a half from the pulled out chairs. If you would like a grill on your patio and space for coolers or other accessories, account for that additional space.  For those with a backyard on the smaller side, make sure to keep in mind the amount of grassy space you would like so that the patio doesn’t overwhelm your backyard.

Patio Shape
Patios can be built in various geometric shapes such as squares, rectangles, circles, octagons, L-shapes and more, as well as free-form curvy shapes with unconventional designs. The most popular shapes for patios are typically squares and rectangles because they are simple and cost-effective to design. Square and rectangle shapes fit nicely next to the home and are great for entertaining large groups of people.  They also provide an easy focal point for a table, hot tub and other patio accessories. Round patios are another popular choice, in either the full circle or half circle design because the curved edges blend in naturally with the rest of the yard or landscaping. Some of our favorite patio designs are free-form shapes because these are custom-built to fit the home with large, beautiful curves forming unique shapes to create the best entertainment space possible.

Stay tuned for How to Build Your Dream Backyard Patio – Part 2 which provides in-depth coverage of patio materials, design and accessories. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!


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Five Weed Control Tips for August and Early September

Posted on September 1, 2011 by FTLandscape


While the blistering heat of August may indicate otherwise, it’s time to start fighting winter weeds now. Weeds spread their seedlings during the Fall and can become an eye sore by early Spring. At Finishing Touch Landscaping, we’ve collected some of our best August weeding tips so that your lawn will look healthy and polished next Spring:

1) Apply a Pre-Emergent Herbicide
Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in late August to early September to prevent winter weeds from growing. Labor Day weekend is an excellent target date for weed control. It is important to apply the herbicide early, because once the seeds germinate, the pre-emergent herbicide will not be effective. This is more efficient than waiting for the weeds to grow and then applying a post-emergent herbicide. Feed and weed products are also popular in the Fall. This combines a herbicide with fertilizer. When choosing an herbicide, we encourage the use of safe, organic lawn treatments.

2) Maximize the Herbicide Application
In general, the more rainfall you’ve received, the earlier you should apply the herbicide.  It also helps to apply the herbicide in two batches. First take your supply, divide it in half, and then apply the one batch of herbicide walking north to south and the other from east to west. This cross-directional application process will provide the most extensive coverage of herbicide. It only takes a little longer, but will save you more time and money in the long run.

3) Water After Herbicide Application
Make sure to water your plants and grass after applying the pre-emergent herbicide, unless you were lucky enough to receive rainfall! This activates the herbicide by moving it from the surface into the soil. The ideal amount of water is the equivalent to a half an inch of rain.

4) Raise the Height of Your Lawn Mower
Raise the height of the blade in your lawn mower, because weeds thrive on short grass. When the grass is short, the sun can easily reach the soil allowing the seedlings to start growing. By keeping the grass longer, at around three inches, this blocks more sunlight. Even if you do not have weeds right now, seedlings are constantly moving onto your lawn through the wind and water that runs through your yard after a rainfall.

5) Reapply Mulch
Seedlings have the best chance of growing where there is lots of sunlight and little competition. Any bare patches of soil are a prime breeding ground for weeds. With many heavy rains this Spring and Summer, it is not uncommon for some of the mulch to have drifted away. If you see any bare patches, reapplying mulch now can save you from dealing with pesky weeds later.

If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been taking care of lawns for over 30 years!

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An Introduction to Pavers

Posted on August 23, 2011 by FTLandscape


Pavers are concrete, brick, or natural stone pieces that are laid down on a flat surface in interlocking patterns to create more luxurious driveways, patios, pool decks and plazas.  They come in a variety of shapes, colors and sizes, adding more visual texture and charm to your home or business. At Finishing Touch Landscaping, we excel in the art of pavers and can provide you with infinite possibilities, limited only by your imagination (and budget).  

Concrete Pavers

There are three types of paver materials including concrete, brick and natural stone. Concrete pavers are the least expensive and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Stronger than traditional concrete, pavers are more durable because each small piece of concrete has room to expand or contract according to the weather conditions. They do not crack like concrete sidewalks or asphalt and come in a plethora of colors. Pavers can add a unique beauty and ambiance to any landscape.

Brick Pavers
Brick pavers are made from natural clays, are extremely strong and can support massive amounts of weight. Due to their uniform shape, brick pavers are easy to install and need little maintenance. Priced in the middle, they maintain their colors longer than concrete pavers because they are constructed from natural materials. The non-slip brick surface is an important consideration for some individuals because this increases safety during rain, snow or the use of sprinklers.

Natural Stone Pavers
Natural stone pavers are rocks carved from the earth. These free-form pieces are then fit together to bring natural beauty to your home or business.  There are many types of stones that can be used including flagstone, cobblestone, porphyry, granite, travertine and additional options. Natural stone pavers are just as strong as the concrete and brick pavers, and can last for decades. While the colors are more likely to fade in the sun, they require almost no maintenance and significantly increase the curb value to your home. The installation process is a bit trickier due to the unique shapes of the stones, so it may take a bit longer.

Natural Stone Patio

Natural Stone Patio, Steps and Wall

Pavers increase curb appeal and need very little maintenance, which raises the property value of a home or business.  To view our gallery of pavers at Finishing Touch Landscaping, click here. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

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How to Hire a Landscaper

Posted on August 13, 2011 by FTLandscape


Where do you begin? It can be difficult to find a trustworthy company that will finish your project on-time, on-budget and provide beautiful results that are also high quality. At Finishing Touch Landscaping, we’ve put together a list that will help you choose between various landscaping businesses to find the best fit for your project.

Step 1 – Ask Around
Getting recommendations from friends, family or business acquaintances can save you time and point you in the right direction – though they should be taken with a grain of salt. While a company may be great for one project, they might not be the best fit for another.

Step 2 – Research Online
Browse the Internet for landscaping companies in your area. Visit their website to view testimonials, picture galleries, and learn more about the company. The landscaping business should have a permanent address and local phone number. Once you have found several businesses that you like, check the better business bureau for complaints and look online for reviews. Make sure the landscaping company and its workers are insured. This is essential, because it will protect you just in case someone is injured on your property.

Step 3 – Get Price Quotes
Select your favorite landscaping companies and contact them to get a price quote. Many will provide quotes over the phone. Others prefer to visit your property in-person, to provide you with a more accurate estimate. It can be helpful to give the company a written description of your project so that they have specific details about the size, scope and style elements involved.

Step 4 – Check References
Once you have narrowed down the landscaping businesses to your top few choices, ask for references. Getting the phone numbers of other customers in the area can be a tremendous help. In fact, many landscaping projects can be seen from the street. If possible, go for a drive and see the company’s work firsthand.

Step 5 – Get Written Estimates
If you are still interested in the landscaping company after speaking to previous customers and viewing their work, ask for a written estimate. This will map out the project in-detail and provide you with a more accurate price. It is important to get the estimate in writing. It should include the total cost, a billing schedule, an estimated start/end date, as well as a list of materials, plants, flowers and anything else that that will be used throughout the project.

Step 6 – Make a Selection
When choosing a landscaping company there are several considerations that come into play. We encourage you to look beyond the price quote and also place an emphasis on quality and your gut feeling about the landscaping company before signing a contract. Landscaping if done incorrectly, can be costly to repair. In the end, you want to pick someone within your budget that you are also comfortable working with.

For more information about Finishing Touch Landscaping, click here. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

Finishing Touch Landscape

Finishing Touch Landscape

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Outdoor Living Spaces: Cooking & Entertaining

Posted on August 12, 2011 by FTLandscape

One of the fastest growing trends in backyard upgrades this Summer is outdoor kitchens.  Which makes sense considering that barbeques and dinners on the patio are some of the most relaxing and enjoyable parts of Summer. At Finishing Touch Landscaping we can customize an outdoor kitchen experience complete with a working refrigerator, sink and plenty of counter space to make entertaining for parties more convenient and stylish.

Outdoor Living Space with Kitchen and Grill

What are the benefits of outdoor kitchens?

Running in and out of the house, from the kitchen to the grill, is tiresome and leaves you with less time to spend with family and guests.  Often times, the host of a party is so busy running around that they barely get to participate in the fun!  With stainless steel appliances and a variety of beautiful stones to choose from, there are unlimited possibilities for designing an outdoor kitchen that can take your Summer entertainment to the next level.

Choosing Kitchen Features

The most important part of an outdoor kitchen is the grill. Whether you prefer a charcoal, gas or electrical grill, there are many different options available. We can help you navigate the selection of outdoor kitchen appliances to find a grill that is excellent for cooking, but also the right size and look for each custom outdoor kitchen. We recommend weather resistant stainless steel appliances for maximum durability.

While the main components of an outdoor kitchen are the grill, sink and refrigerator, there are also amazing extras that can be added to an outdoor kitchen as well. We can include an outdoor pizza oven, ice maker, built-in fireplace and even a television. With all of these appliances, it is important that the outdoor kitchen is carefully situated in order to connect to a home’s existing electrical, plumbing or gas lines.  Adding additional lines is unnecessary and extremely costly.

For more information about outdoor kitchens, click here. If you have any questions or need the help of an expert, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We have been landscaping for over 30 years!

Outdoor Living Space with Fireplace

Outdoor Living Space with Fireplace, Wall and Patio

 

Posted in Outdoor Appliances, Outdoor Fireplaces, Outdoor Kitchens, Outdoor Living Space, Outdoor Pizza Oven | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment