Tag Archives: Landscaping Services

Hardscaping is a Great Investment

When individuals think about beautifying their outdoor space they typically think about living additions like trees, shrubs and flowers but permanent structures can be an even better investment in the long run.

Flowers, trees and shrubs are classified as landscaping; stone patios, retaining walls and stone steps are called hardscaping. Hardscaping offers a strong focal point for an outdoor area. Adding stone to existing features such as steps and walls is a good alternative when the existing layout of the area should be preserved.

Patios
A traditional patio can be taken to the next level with the addition of stone. Stone patios have a strong Mediterranean and European vibe which instantly beautifies and adds value to the home. A stone patio is stronger than wood and doesn’t require the care and upkeep of wood; stone is water resistant, unlike wood.

Walkways
Having clearly defined walkways makes the outdoors pleasant to roam around in. With stone walkways the elements are not an issue and the stone work retains its beauty for years to come. Stone walkways are weed-proof and waterproof reducing time and maintenance costs.

Stone Water Features
Fountains and ponds are a multi-sensory experience that creates a luxurious and tranquil atmosphere. The air around the pond or fountain is cooled by the water and they attract various species of birds. A water feature is a one time investment that lasts for decades.

Retaining Walls
Instead of having unsightly concrete retaining walls in plain view why not cover it up and make it a focal point by going the stone route instead. The quality stone work is eye catching and attractive.

Hardscaping and Landscaping Combined
Stone features are easily accented with landscaping touches like decorative shrubs, flowers and foliage. The stone work provides the backbone and structure of the exterior space allowing for greater creativity with fewer plants which means that each and every plant in the yard can be a carefully selected favorite.

Stone hardscaping makes a beautiful addition to the exterior of a home that is elegant and maintenance free for years to come.

MATT’S MARCH TIP

To fertilize or not to fertilize – that is the question

You would think that with all the marketing of fertilizers in the Spring,  that it is impossible to grow anything without chemical intervention. Well, just go in time  before the advent of big Agriculture companies and realize that most plants survived and thrived without our chemical assistance. Many plants, shrubs, and trees are able to absorb exactly what they need from the soil, air and water and do not need additional Nitrogen, Phosphorous or Potassium. One of our major problems in our Watershed is that many of the fertilizers that are applied actually “run-off” into our water system instead of remaining in the soil for the plants to uptake. This causes issues for our water quality as the chemicals  leach into the aquifers and also run into the Bay and increases algae blooms and reduces water quality.

The first step before fertilizing is to have a soil test to determine your soil quality.  Once you know your soil quality and the PH of your soil, you can determine what type of fertilizers and how much should be applied onto your lawn, garden or plants.  When choosing the fertilizer – try to use SLOW RELEASE, ORGANIC fertilizer.  And always think about improving your soil quality by applying compost, organic matter and controlling the Ph.  These actions will help your plants thrive.  Please visit the Maryland Cooperative Extension’s web site at the link below for more information on fertilizing and soil testing. Also, please visit our link to the GROWING GREEN PLEDGE concerning lawn care.

Maryland Cooperative Extension

Growing Green Pledge