By Dave Connors
Here are just a few tips when considering re-vamping your front yard.
- rip out all of the old shrubs and evaluate which foundation plants(trees or ornamentals) will stay. Never try and mix old shrubs with new shrubs. Everyone will notice a ten year old shrub next to a two year old one.
- When the budget allows.... install a dazzling EP Henry paver walkway. The design should fit your budget and personality.
- Correct any drainage problems after tear out and before installing new ones.
- use at least 3" of mulch in planting beds to protect new shrubs.
- Feed all new shrubs with a slow release 10-10-10 plant food.
- Water plants according to nursery guidelines.
- For new shrubs, it should be two seasons before you really need to begin regular pruning. A light pruning the second season would be good depending on variety.
Selecting the right plants:
- mainly you should speak directly to you local nurseryman on this topic depending what zone you are in. In the northeast (USA) the following are common with landscape designers:
- steeds holly
- azeala
- PJM Rhododendrom
- carpet rose
- red chokeberry
- blue boy holly
- Nellie stevens holly
- Plum trees
- crepe myrtles (yes...crepe myrtles!)
and much more....
If you are from the philadelphia area my company will be more than happy to meet with you and provide a free consultation.
Most landscape company's have a designer on staff and some provide designs for free. I know my company does not charge because we have a high booking rate.
Some advice for finding a good landscape contractor is as follows. First and foremost; qualifications, what projects have they done and do those projects fit your style? Referals should be researched. 2 recent projects and one from two years ago should provide you with how the contractor does business. Price should be within 10% of allother bids. Sometimes you may have to pay a bit more for a better contractor but the results will be well woth it.
About the Author: http://www.ckclandscapinginc.com
Source: www.isnare.com
