tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61143929271579577542024-03-27T22:41:06.859-07:00Helpful Landscaping TipsC4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.comBlogger35125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-38108988996721760782016-07-31T06:29:00.000-07:002016-08-15T06:30:00.426-07:00Building a Flagstone Pathway<div class="MsoNormal">
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Looking for an affordable way to build a flagstone pathway?
You might think about using decomposed granite (crushed granite) instead of
mortar. Pathways, or small patios for that matter, can be built using two
different techniques: one is to build a solid, more permanent solution using
compacted base aggregate materials with wire mesh and flagstone joined together
with mortar; or you can simply place flagstone in decomposed granite.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><b>Mortar Solution </b></o:p></div>
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<o:p><b>Decomposed Granite Solution</b></o:p></div>
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Building a flagstone pathway using decomposed granite is
also really simple. Here’s all you need to do:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<li>Use marking paint to mark the area
where your pathway or patio is to be installed.</li>
<li>Remove any grass or rocks that are
in the marked area. Hint: you might want to use a grass cutter if you have a
lot of grass to remove.</li>
<li>Overlay the marked area with weed
filter fabric and secure the fabric to the ground with metal staples.</li>
<li>Add your border to retain the
decomposed granite you’re going to add. You can use metal edging, plastic,
pavers, or natural stone. Natural stone is our favorite, but it is a little
more complicated to install. </li>
<li>Add your decomposed granite to the
area that is now lined with your edging materials.</li>
<li>Start laying your flagstone pieces
in the decomposed granite, placing them no further apart then about 3” to 4”.
Make sure to work the flagstone back and forth in the decomposed granite until
the top of the flagstone is level with the rest of the decomposed granite. You
will need approximately 1 ton of 1.5” flagstone per 80 SF. Hint: flagstone
pallets are made up of a lot of irregular shaped pieces. If you need a piece to
fit a specific area, simply use a small hammer to break off pieces of larger
flagstone pieces to make a shape that will fit the area.</li>
<li>Take a broom and sweep off any
decomposed granite left on top of the flagstone you have installed.</li>
<li>Use a water hose to apply water to
all the decomposed granite. Let the water soak in well, but don’t create any
puddles.</li>
<li>Finally, get a tamp and gently
tamp the flagstone and the decomposed granite.</li>
<li>Reapply water daily to the area
for the first three days.</li>
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If you would prefer having a flagstone pathway installed
professionally, contact <a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" target="_blank">C4 Landscape & Design</a> and we’ll be happy to give
you a free estimate!<o:p></o:p></div>
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C4 Landscape & Design provides professional landscaping services in Houston, Katy, The Woodlands, San Antonio, Boerne, and the rest of the Hill Country.</div>
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-60060473242620956302016-04-30T18:01:00.000-07:002016-05-19T18:02:07.922-07:00The Beauty of XeriscapingXeriscaping: what does this word mean and how do you say it? Pronounced like the first letter is a Z, xeriscaping means using plants that require minimal water levels to survive and incorporating other items like rocks, bricks or benches instead of grass. Does this mean that you’ll end up with an unsightly rock yard? No! Xeriscaping can be a beautiful landscaping solution when planned and executed appropriately.<br />
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With water being a pricey and limited resource, people are becoming more and more aware and resourceful about conserving it. Even though xeriscaping originally was developed in drought-prone areas, this landscaping idea has gained popularity all over the country. What are the guidelines for creating an attractive garden using xeriscaping techniques?<br />
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1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Planning and design – A smart xeriscaping approach requires thoughtful planning up front. Consider how you use your space and what kind of look you desire. Study the drainage patterns and contours of your land, and if things like retaining walls or terraces would be helpful. The goal is to not only add visual interest but also to reduce erosion. Keep in mind walkways, seating, dining, recreation, or visual barriers that you’d like to incorporate.<br />
2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Lawn – Create limited areas of turf as much as possible, keeping small portions of grass if desired for visual appeal, open spaces, or functionality. Select types of turf with low water requirements and design turf spaces that are easily irrigated and mowed, which means avoiding narrow strips or sharp turns.<br />
3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Irrigation – Water conservation is the goal. Soaker hoses and drip irrigation are the most efficient and simplest watering for xeriscapes. They deliver water right to the plant base, reducing moisture loss due to evaporation. Remember that it is best to water deeply and less often.<br />
4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Soil – Soil in xeriscapes should drain quickly, yet also store water effectively. Increasing the level of organic material in the soil helps reach this goal, as well as keeping it well-aerated. Covering bare soil with mulch also helps.<br />
5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Mulch – To minimize evaporation, slow erosion and limit weed growth, cover the surface of soil around plants with 2-4 inches of mulch. You can choose from options like wood chips, gravel, bark, pine needles, leaves or compost.<br />
6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Plant selection – Choose plants native to your region. Look for plants with glossy, small, thick or fuzzy leaves because these tend to hold water. Don’t mix plants with different watering requirements in the same area, but group those with similar needs together.<br />
7.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Maintenance – A well planned xeriscape lowers the amount of ongoing maintenance required, making this one of the greatest benefits of xeriscaping. Keep your mulch layer thick to reduce weed growth, and don’t cut turf too short because higher grass acts as a natural mulch and helps retain moisture. Don’t over-fertilize your landscaping.<br />
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All of these steps will help provide the beautiful curb appeal possible with proper xeriscaping techniques. Consider this efficient way of conserving water and reducing your landscaping maintenance, while still having an attractive property that puts a smile on your face.<br />
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<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" target="_blank">Contact us</a> today for your free estimate.<br />
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-91483145049803838812016-03-31T18:00:00.000-07:002016-05-19T18:00:49.006-07:00The Fine Line Between Over-Watering and Under-WateringYou shouldn’t underestimate the importance of properly watering your landscaping this time of year. It requires finding that tricky balance between too little water and too much water to maintain the healthy landscaping you desire. With temperatures rising and sunny days becoming more common as summer approaches, your gut reaction might be to add water. However, sometimes over-watering can by just as harmful as under-watering.<br />
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What are the signs of too much or too little water? Unfortunately, the symptoms are quite similar, sometimes making it hard to know what to do. Here are some things to watch for:<br />
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<li>Leaves turn brown and wilt. This can happen with both too little or too much water, but the difference is that under-watered plants tend to have dead leaves that are dry and crispy while over-watered leaves are soft and limp.</li>
<li>Over-watered plants may develop root rot, which is noticeable when it begins to turn brown on a section or side of the plant and portions of the plants will start to die and spread until the whole plant dies.</li>
<li>Even if your plant loses all its leaves, it may still be alive. Use a knife or pruning tool to scratch the surface of plant stems to see if green is visible. If so, the plant may have just dropped its leaves reacting to the drought or heat. Cut back the plant and water it carefully to bring it back to life.</li>
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The ideal way to know if you are under or over-watering is to regularly check the moisture of your soil. Stick your finger a couple of inches into the soil and do not add water if it feels moist. Check daily and when the soil feels dry, add water. Aim water at the roots of the plant and water deeply, while avoiding getting too much water on the leaves and blooms.<br />
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These tips can help you maintain the right amount of water for your landscaping. Don’t neglect your plants and lawn during the summer, as extra care is needed to find a successful balance between too much or too little hydration.<br />
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<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" target="_blank">Contact us</a> today for your free evaluation.<br />
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-26884251139819524802016-02-29T19:23:00.000-08:002016-03-28T19:24:02.030-07:00Fertilizing in the SpringtimeOne of the best ways to achieve a lawn and garden that is the envy of all your neighbors is proper fertilization. That doesn’t mean picking up any bag of fertilizer you see at your local store and dumping it on your lawn anytime you want. There are certain tricks to properly fertilizing your landscaping so that you get the best results from your efforts.<br />
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You should strive to fertilize four times a year. Let’s focus on what you can be doing NOW – in the Spring months of late February through May – to get your yard looking good as well as prepared for the hot summer months ahead.<br />
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In late February or March, apply a 15-5-10 fertilizer to get your landscaping to green up. Look for the type that is not a slow-release, so that you’ll benefit from a faster greening in as little as just two weeks. If you use the slow-release instead, you’ll be waiting a lot longer for that healthy green color in your yard.<br />
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There shouldn’t be a need for applying a weed-and-feed fertilizer at this time of year, unless you see areas that could use some spot treatments. Even then, only use weed-and-feed on lawns that are well-established or only include turf. Keep in mind that the Atrizine ingredient in most weed-and-feed products can burn the roots of young shrubs and trees, so don’t risk applying that and losing your new landscaping.<br />
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Also in the February to March timeframe, it’s time to apply herbicides. These pre-emergent controls help prevent grassy weeds like crabgrass, dallisgrass, and goosegrass from appearing in the summertime. Some grassy pre-emergents to try include Treflan, Balan, Betasan, or Amaze.<br />
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In late March through early April, apply slow release 3-1-2 ratio fertilizers. You’ll repeat this application again in late June to early July for ideal results.<br />
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Finally, in May or early June, you can do another application of grassy pre-emergents. This will help avoid weeds that can pop up in August and into the Fall months.<br />
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If you follow a schedule like this for fertilizing your yard this Spring, you’ll be glad you did. Chances are you’ll enjoy a green, weed-free lawn during the months ahead.<br />
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Let us know if we can help. Contact us today!<br />
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-21678992367455306932016-01-26T14:13:00.003-08:002016-01-26T14:13:27.894-08:00Preparing for Spring<div class="MsoNormal">
Once the winter months are coming to a close, it’s time to
plan ahead for Spring. Cleaning up your landscaping in the Springtime not only
improves its appearance, it helps prepare your yard for summer too. Here are
some tips that will guide you as you ready your landscaping for Spring.</div>
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<b>Fertilizing</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Providing nutrition to your plants can make the difference
between a struggling, half alive garden and one that is lush and healthy. Apply
1 to 2 inches of fresh compost around your plants before putting down new
mulch.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Pruning</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Trees and shrubs need light pruning to eliminate any
damaged, diseased or dead branches. All perennials definitely need pruning, many
of them even being cut back to the base. Be sure and remove any weeds while
you’re at it. Once you’ve completed your pruning, rake the beds completely to
get rid of debris that has built up during the winter months.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Edging</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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To create well-defined lines between your landscaping beds
and your lawn, use an edger to separate the two areas. This will also prevent
turf from spreading into your mulch. You’ll end up with a much more
well-maintained look to your landscaping. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Mulching</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Another key to improving curb appeal is adding new mulch.
There shouldn’t be more than about 3 inches of mulch total, so if you have
existing mulch just add another 1 to 2 inches to the top each Spring. Examine
areas where mulch tends to accumulate, such as near your foundation or around
trees, and remove old mulch before adding new if you are concerned about going
over the 3-inch maximum level. This helps prevent insect infestations and
disease, as well as minimizes weed growth and promoting moisture retention in
the soil.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Applying weed control</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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No yard looks beautiful if it’s full of weeds! Apply
pre-emergent weed control to act as a barrier to weed seeds germinating in your
landscaping. Apply this product before installing new mulch, and you may need
to repeat the application several times throughout the summer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Planting</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Don’t forget that Spring is an ideal time to plant new
plants or transfer existing ones. Outside temperatures allow plants to adjust
to their new locations with less stress than during hot and dry months.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you don’t have the time or energy to complete these steps
in your Spring landscaping but want to experience the benefits that a Spring
cleanup provides, contact C4 Landscape & Design to spruce up your
landscaping and get your yard in tip-top shape.<o:p></o:p></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-16259736350425156182015-12-31T09:34:00.000-08:002016-01-07T09:35:00.627-08:00How to Prepare for a Freeze<div class="MsoNormal">
When you’re expecting freezing temperatures at your home,
you need to be proactive about protecting your landscaping. It’s the best way
to keep your plants healthy and able to survive freezing weather. Here are some
tips to help you prepare for a freeze.</div>
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<b>Water</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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To help lower the risk of freezing damage to your plants,
water them thoroughly before the freezing weather arrives. This aids your
plants not by providing cold protection exactly, but by preventing your plants
from drying out when strong winds occur that often accompany cold weather. However,
watering your soil well does help it absorb solar radiation better than dry
soil, which promotes re-radiation of the heat during the night.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Location</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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When possible, transfer your tender hanging baskets and
container plants indoors where freezing temperatures will not reach them.
Remember to place them in an area that will receive light if they will be kept
indoors for an extended period. If you cannot move plants inside a building, group
them in a protected area such as the inside corner of a covered patio and cover
them with a material like plastic.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Cover</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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For plants that will stay outside and are not too large,
protect them individually by covering them with cardboard or Styrofoam boxes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Mulch</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Plants that are not in containers but grow directly in the
ground can be protected using mulches. Loose, dry materials like leaves or pine
straw are most helpful. Remember that mulch will only protect areas that it
covers so spread it appropriately. Mulch is ideal for preventing freeze damage
to crowns or underground portions of plants. It can also be used to completely
cover groundcover or low-growing plants up to a four inches deep, but make sure
you don’t leave the plants covered for more than four days.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you have any questions or need help winterizing your landscaping contact us today:</div>
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<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html">http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html</a></div>
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-19535520526092671282015-10-31T08:31:00.000-07:002015-11-06T08:36:58.204-08:00Choosing Color for the Fall and Winter in Texas<div class="MsoNormal">
Just about everyone can find
success in their gardens in the spring, when plants are agreeable to growing
and blooming. Texas landscapes are brilliant with color in the springtime, and
the rest of the year we are stuck with various colors of green. This does not
have to be the case! With some planning and plant smarts, you can have your
landscaping looking colorful and appealing even during the more challenging
times of year.</div>
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Some plants don’t put on their color
show until late in the growing season. You might not realize that fall is a good
time for plants because Texas temperatures are decreasing and rain is
increasing. Here are some of the best choices for late season color in your
Texas landscaping.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Calendulas</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Similar in appearance to daisies,
calendulas like cooler temperatures. They can even survive a dip into the
mid-20s without having to be covered. Calendulas will provide autumn, winter
and spring color in your garden, but may not be able to survive a hot Texas
summer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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</span><b>Alyssum</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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A fragrant plant with dainty
flowers, alyssum will form an appealing border in your fall landscaping. Its
tendency to creep along makes it useful along edges and in pathway gaps, and it
can be easily cut back and fertilized to encourage more blooms. It thrives in
the sun or partial shade, and is an annual that will often reseed. Alyssum is
available in white, lavender, and rose colors.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Pansies</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Bright color will embrace your landscaping
if you plant pansies. Plant them in sunny spots with rich soil, and eliminate
old flowers from the pansies each month and add fertilizer for new blooms.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Violas</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Also known as Johnny-Jump-Ups,
violas are a traditional favorite in Texas gardens. These small, delicate purple
and yellow flowers can make a big impact. Violas are a beautiful choice for
spilling from clay pots or planter boxes, or in groupings in your garden. They
are tolerant of the occasional warm spells that can occur in Texas during the
fall and winter months.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Petunias</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The sweet smell of petunias will
bring life to your landscaping with the dozens of varieties available in Texas.
For the best blooms, plant them in at least a half-day’s sun in fertile soil
that drains well. Fertilize them once or twice a month to keep them healthy and
attractive.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Primroses</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Available in a wide range of
colors, primroses will bring delight to your garden. These plants thrive in
damp, well-draining, enriched soil. Primroses prefer partial sun to bright
shade, and will survive temperature drops into the 20s.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Snapdragon</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Blooming in colors from deep red
to rust to pale yellow, snapdragons flower in the fall, winter, and spring.
Tall varieties are perfect for the backs of your flower beds, and dwarf
varieties are great for borders. Plant snapdragons in the sun in well-draining,
fertile soil.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Drummond phlox</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A native plant to Texas, phlox is
often seen in red but also available in other shades. Plant phlox in the fall
to achieve color all the way through spring. Picking the flowers as they wilt
promotes more blooms.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
All of these plants are great
options for your Texas garden during the fall and winter months. If you need
more advice or would like to hand off the planting duties to the pros, call <a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/" target="_blank">C4Landscape & Design</a> to make your garden pop with a colorful design.<o:p></o:p></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-60627117284466186532015-09-30T14:27:00.000-07:002015-10-19T14:28:03.731-07:00The Basics about Watering Your Landscaping<div style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
It sounds like an easy question: how much should I water my
yard? Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as you might think. Many factors go into
the amount of moisture your landscaping requires, such as the type of grass,
soil condition, irrigation system, and mowing height. C4 Landscape & Design
is here to offer some instructions about keeping your landscaping at its
healthiest and most beautiful through the use of water.<br />
<o:p> </o:p><b>Irrigation schedule</b>Mother Nature plays a role in your irrigation schedule. You
must consider the amount of rainfall and the temperature. When daytime
temperatures are in the 70s and 80s, lawns do well with 1-1.5 inches of water
per week. As temperatures reach 88-92, increase your watering to 1-1.5 inches
every 4-5 days. When it’s over 93 degrees outside, your lawn needs water every
2-3 days.<br />
<o:p> </o:p><b>Length of watering</b>There’s a simple trick to figuring out how long it takes for
your lawn to receive an inch of water. Put an empty tuna can at the farthest
point that your sprinkler spray reaches; when the can is full, you have
provided one inch of water. It can take between 15-45 minutes depending upon
your irrigation system.<br />
<o:p> </o:p><b>Time of day</b>The best time of day to water your landscaping is early in
the morning. There’s less breeze to evaporate the moisture, water pressure is
at its best, and the lawn will be able to store water for the often warm Texas
day to come. Schedule automatic sprinklers to run between 3-8 a.m. If you don’t
have an irrigation system, start your sprinkler as soon as you get up in the
morning. Avoid watering at night because it increases the risk of fungal
diseases such as brownpatch.<br />
<o:p> </o:p><b>Type of grass</b>Different grasses require varying levels of water. St.
Augustine needs the most, Bermuda is next, and Zoysia requires significantly
less than the others.<br />
<o:p> </o:p><b>Soil condition</b>Your landscaping is dependent upon the soil underneath it.
Sandy or clay soils that aren’t enriched with organic matter dry out more
quickly, so they need more water. In order to obtain rich organic soil, you’ll
need to add soil activators or enriched topsoil every year.<br />
<o:p> </o:p><b>Mowing height</b>You may be tempted to cut your grass short to avoid mowing
more often, but don’t fall victim to that trap! Set your mower height setting
to as tall as it allows. Higher grass allows the roots to deepen, which in turn
draws from deeper moisture in your soil. Also, taller grass provides shade for
the surface of the soil so that moisture dissipates less quickly.<br />
<o:p> </o:p><b>New lawns</b><span style="line-height: 18pt;">If your lawn is newly sodded, you need to water it
every day especially during hot weather. The goal is to keep it wet near the
root zone to help the roots establish fully. You don’t want to drown the grass,
but make sure the soil is soft to promote good growth.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-33417433275823791532015-08-31T17:32:00.000-07:002015-09-06T17:33:11.231-07:00The Basics about Watering Your Landscaping<div class="MsoNormal">
It sounds like an easy question: how much should I water my yard? Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as you might think. Many factors go into the amount of moisture your landscaping requires, such as the type of grass, soil condition, irrigation system, and mowing height. C4 Landscape & Design is here to offer some instructions about keeping your landscaping at its healthiest and most beautiful through the use of water.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Irrigation schedule</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mother Nature plays a role in your irrigation schedule. You must consider the amount of rainfall and the temperature. When daytime temperatures are in the 70s and 80s, lawns do well with 1-1.5 inches of water per week. As temperatures reach 88-92, increase your watering to 1-1.5 inches every 4-5 days. When it’s over 93 degrees outside, your lawn needs water every 2-3 days.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Length of watering</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s a simple trick to figuring out how long it takes for your lawn to receive an inch of water. Put an empty tuna can at the farthest point that your sprinkler spray reaches; when the can is full, you have provided one inch of water. It can take between 15-45 minutes depending upon your irrigation system.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Time of day</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best time of day to water your landscaping is early in the morning. There’s less breeze to evaporate the moisture, water pressure is at its best, and the lawn will be able to store water for the often warm Texas day to come. Schedule automatic sprinklers to run between 3-8 a.m. If you don’t have an irrigation system, start your sprinkler as soon as you get up in the morning. Avoid watering at night because it increases the risk of fungal diseases such as brownpatch.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Type of grass</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Different grasses require varying levels of water. St. Augustine needs the most, Bermuda is next, and Zoysia requires significantly less than the others.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Soil condition</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your landscaping is dependent upon the soil underneath it. Sandy or clay soils that aren’t enriched with organic matter dry out more quickly, so they need more water. In order to obtain rich organic soil, you’ll need to add soil activators or enriched topsoil every year. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Mowing height</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You may be tempted to cut your grass short to avoid mowing more often, but don’t fall victim to that trap! Set your mower height setting to as tall as it allows. Higher grass allows the roots to deepen, which in turn draws from deeper moisture in your soil. Also, taller grass provides shade for the surface of the soil so that moisture dissipates less quickly.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>New lawns</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If your lawn is newly sodded, you need to water it every day especially during hot weather. The goal is to keep it wet near the root zone to help the roots establish fully. You don’t want to drown the grass, but make sure the soil is soft to promote good growth.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you have irrigation questions about irrigation please feel free to reach out to us. We server Katy, Conroe, The Woodlands and the Texas Hill Country.<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/" target="_blank"> Contact us today.</a></div>
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-75575778299163248172015-07-31T08:16:00.000-07:002015-08-03T08:16:28.524-07:00Professional Help with your Landscaping<div class="MsoNormal">
A surefire way to increase the value of your residential or
commercial property is through landscaping, and the best way to achieve the greatest
results is to hire the services of a professional landscaping company.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The first thing that a professional brings to the table is
the ability to create a striking and practical landscaping design. The designer
will work with you throughout the process by listening to your goals and
concerns, and helping you achieve the desired results. The entire process will
likely include the initial consultation, evaluation of your property, permits,
construction, and complete implementation of the plan.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once your landscaping is installed, the professional’s job
does not end there. The landscaper will either be responsible for continued
maintenance, or for teaching you how to maintain the property yourself. This
involves caring for the lawn, flower beds, shrubs, vines, and more. Regular
tree trimming will also be addressed, as well as mulching to ensure the most
appealing look and healthiest vegetation. A landscape expert can be hired to
regularly service your property so that all of the landscaping is healthy,
vibrant, and adheres to the intended design.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t forget that irrigation is part of your professional
landscaping plan. This means making sure that the appropriate amount of water
is available to the correct areas of your landscaping. An expert will consider
the drainage system so that it is planned correctly, installed well, and properly
maintained for the ideal results.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Another area that professionals can help is with landscape
lighting, which can create a dramatic night time look for your property. Both
residential and commercial areas can greatly benefit from well-planned lighting.
A professional will advise about the types of lighting, locations, and
maintenance to give you the most favorable effects.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
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Hiring a professional for your landscaping needs will pay
off in the end by providing you with the curb appeal that makes you appreciate
their expertise.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design</a> today for all your landscaping needs in Katy, Conroe, The Woodlands and now the Hill Country.</div>
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-87519990491584002015-06-30T17:37:00.000-07:002015-07-19T17:43:11.302-07:00Summer Landscaping Tips<div class="MsoNormal">
As temperatures rise with the summer months, especially in
the sometimes sweltering Texas heat, the challenges of maintaining a healthy
and thriving landscape can be daunting. Soil dries out, plants start to wither,
and water restrictions may be imposed. That’s why it’s important to take
preventative measures and water wisely so that your lawn, beds, trees, and
gardens don’t suffer irreparable damage during the summer season.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Risky plants</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some plants are at higher risk than others during the hot,
dry weather. Newly planted perennials, newly plants shrubs and trees, or flower
beds must be maintained carefully to ensure their survival. Ask the experts at
C4 Landscape & Design for advice on the best ways to help your specific
at-risk plants get through the season.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Signs of dehydration</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Watching for early signs of dehydration is one key to summer
landscaping. Keep a close eye on your lawn and plants, and immediately attend
to their watering needs if you notice potential problems. The most obvious sign
to watch for is wilting, but here are some other tell-tale indicators of
dehydration:<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Leaf yellowing<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Shriveled leaf areas<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Browning leaf edges<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Translucent leaves<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Bluish-green foliage color<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Early blossom dropping<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Stems bending over<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Grass and leaves curling
upward<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Slow growth<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Watering advice</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best way to save your plants and lawn is to water them.
At the earliest signs that your landscaping needs water, act fast instead of
risking severe damage. To get the most out of your watering, here is some
advice to keep in mind:<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Water early for the
highest efficiency. You’ll lose the least amount of water to evaporation
when you water early in the morning. Evaporation is a big issue especially
when you’re using sprinklers, as some of the moisture evaporates before it
even hits the ground. This can be a real problem when you water during the
hottest times of the summer day. You may choose to water in the evening,
but that can bring an increased risk for diseases like moss.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Water evenly. Don’t ignore
areas because they might be harder to reach.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Water deeper and longer
instead of more in frequent, shorter time periods. Roots tend to follow
water, so if the water only reaches the top, roots can collect near the
soil’s surface. This increases their vulnerability to hot temperatures. To
combat this, water less often but for longer amounts so that deep root
growth is encouraged.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Avoid wasting your water
with runoff. Make sure your sprinklers are aimed correctly and check on your
landscaping now and then during watering. If you notice runoff occurring
before you’ve reached a deep watering, turn the sprinklers off a while so
the plants and lawn can absorb the water and then restart as needed.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Know the rules. Some
communities in the Houston area and the Hill Country have water
restrictions in place. Learn the specifics about any restrictions in your
neighborhood, such as how often you can water or what time of day or for
how long, and follow them. Even though this can be hard on your
landscaping, it’s better to be a good citizen as well as avoid any fines
or tickets.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Lawn tips</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your lawn may be the most noticeable thing about your home’s
curb appeal at first glance. Here are some hints about keeping it looking its
best:<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Walk on your grass and if
you leave footprints, your lawn could use water.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Squeeze your soil into a
ball and if it keeps its shape, the soil has enough water. If you squeeze
any water out of the soil, hold off on watering because it is overwatered.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Aerate your lawn yearly to
minimize runoff and allow your soil to accept hydration better.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Lightly spray plants with
water during the day to prevent spider mites, which are encouraged by heat
and drought.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">To prevent weeds and
promote nutrient retention, add mulch around your plants. If weeds
develop, remove them so they won’t suck up the water or nutrients that are
intended for your plants.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The hot summer months don’t mean that your landscaping has
to suffer. Be smart about maintaining your plants and lawn, and seek the help
of <a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/" target="_blank">C4 Landscape & Design</a> if you have questions or concerns.<span style="color: #504d3b; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-38083122658076293792015-05-31T17:52:00.001-07:002015-05-31T17:52:04.494-07:00Too Much Rain Can Impact Your Landscaping<div class="MsoNormal">
Most of us think that rain is a good thing when it comes to
maintaining landscaping and enjoying a beautiful lawn. During this time of
year, Spring Showers are usually a welcome sight. The rainfall this spring, however,
in the Houston area and the Hill Country has been excessive in many locations. Precipitation
records have been surpassed, and the end result can be stress on your
landscaping.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What’s the problem with too much rain?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even though you may not notice it by looking, soil contains
spaces between its particles. The spaces hold water and air, both of which are
vital to healthy plant roots. When the soil is watered, the spaces fill with
liquid and the air is displaced. In ideal water levels, gravity pulls the
liquid down and air moves back into the spaces. However, too much rain fills up
the spaces with water and there is no oxygen available to nourish the plants.
If rain continues, eventually the roots can’t function well and can die. This
is what happens when you see wilting plants even though the soil is wet. These
conditions can also lead to root rot, which allows fungal organisms to thrive
in the soil and badly damage plant roots.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>How can you prevent problems?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best way to avoid waterlogged landscaping is to make
sure you have good drainage. A great solution for that is planting shrubs,
perennials, bedding plants and ground cover in raised beds. Beds that are 6 to
12 inches higher than the soil around them will drain more quickly and dry out
faster than beds planted at ground level. To create a raised bed, the soil
should be turned and several inches of organic matter should be added. This
will elevate the bed roughly 6 inches, and extra soil brought in can raise it
even more. There’s not much you can do about Mother Nature bringing an
over-abundance of rain, but planting in raised beds gives your landscape plants
an advantage.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Does the season of the year make a difference?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yes, the time of year makes a difference in the ability of
your landscaping to withstand extra moisture. Heavy spring and summer rains can
have destructive effects on plants that are in active growth during this time
of year. Warmer temperatures also promote the growth of fungal organisms that
cause root rot.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What can I do about drainage?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The ideal time to think about the health of your landscaping
in the event of too much rain is when the beds are designed and built, and the
plants are chosen. It’s more difficult to remedy the problems once the planting
is complete. If you don’t install a raised bed in a low area without good
drainage, make sure you select plants that thrive in very wet soil. Another
option is having a landscape architect inspect your lawn and beds to evaluate
how the water flows across your property, and then help design and install
drainage as needed. Keep in mind that even with good drainage, it’s important
to choose plants that are adapted to heavier rainfall amounts.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/">C4 Landscaping</a> is knowledgeable and experienced in the best
ways to promote a healthy landscape in spite of too much water. We are happy to
come out and evaluate your landscaping and drainage situation, and then provide
better solutions to maintaining a healthy and beautiful yard. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html">Contact us</a> today for your free estimate.</div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-15591131100227687432015-04-27T10:45:00.003-07:002015-04-27T10:45:31.342-07:00Getting Your Landscaping Ready for Spring<div class="MsoNormal">
Your grass is greening up, flowers are beginning to bloom,
and birds are chirping away. That means it’s time for you to do some important
things to get your landscaping in good shape for Spring! Here are some tasks to
help you achieve the best looking yard around.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Aerate</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The healthiest grass out there is that which is allowed to
grow high, enabling its root system to thrive and deepen. A strong root system
breaks up the soil and promotes drainage, in turn creating healthier grass. Since
most of us keep our grass mowed to a shorter height, the roots are not able to
do as good of a job as needed for ideal grass. That means we have to help our
grass achieve its best condition, and aeration is often a great solution. Aerating
your grass promotes air circulation, improves distribution of nutrients and
moisture, loosens compacted soil so that roots can better grow, breaks down
thatch buildup, and aids oxygen in reaching the roots. How do you know if your
yard will benefit from aeration?<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Your lawn is getting too
thin and there aren't any obvious causes like watering changes or too much
shade.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">You see more water runoff
than normal, and it’s not due to too much rain or over-watering. Soil that
is too compact doesn't absorb water well.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Fertilizer doesn't noticeably
help your lawn. This likely means that the fertilizer’s nutrients can’t
reach the roots of your grass. If you aerate your soil, wait about two
weeks and then apply fertilizer for the best results.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Fertilize</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mid-spring is the ideal time to apply weed and feed
fertilizer to your lawn. If you fertilize too early in the season, you may get
rid of a few weeds but you won’t achieve greener grass. You might even promote
lawn diseases like Brown Patch if you don’t fertilize at the right time of the
year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Trim</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Spring is a great time to trim some of your trees and
shrubs. Crape myrtles, ornamental grasses, and roses will especially benefit
from trimming this time of year.<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Crape myrtles are very
popular in southern landscapes. They should be pruned in the late winter
or early Spring to eliminate dead or weak branches and sucker growth.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Roses should be trimmed
regularly to reduce disease or pest damage, and to promote new growth.
Spring is a great time to focus on your roses.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Ornamental grasses should
be trimmed to allow new growth to emerge from damaged foliage. This will
give you a nice batch of new growth in the Spring.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Mulch</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the greatest things you can do to improve the
appearance of your landscaping is to add a new layer of mulch in your beds and
around your trees. It protects plant roots from extreme temperatures (which
will be hitting this area before we know it!), discourages weed growth, and
conserves moisture in the soil. You can choose the type of mulch you like best
for your landscaping, as there are several types and colors available.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Contact <a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html">C4 Landscaping</a> for help in sprucing up your lawn
this Spring. Time is of the essence in getting your landscaping looking
beautiful for the rest of the year!<span style="color: #40331e; font-family: "Tahoma","sans-serif"; font-size: 16.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-40648117233137006042015-03-31T19:48:00.000-07:002015-03-31T19:56:54.124-07:00Types of MulchIt’s time to start thinking about mulching your yard here in
the Houston area. Mulch is a great way to protect the soil in your flower beds
and garden, and no Katy yard should be without it. You have a choice about the type,
color, and texture of your mulch. Here is a description of the most common
kinds of mulches to help you decide which one is right for your home or
business.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Hardwood bark</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the most prevalent mulches in this area, hardwood
bark mulch is made from oak, hickory, and other hardwoods. It is dark brown in
color, and shredded to be used as a top dressing or along paths or surrounding
trees. It is easy to work with and breaks down to enhance the nutrients in the
soil.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Pine bark</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another popular mulch used in the Katy area is pine bark,
which provides the benefits of an appealing scent and a contributor of organic
content through decomposition. Pine bark mulch ranges in color from red to dark
brown, and should be in shredded form as opposed to large chunks to avoid
washing away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Pine needles</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also having the pleasant pine smell, pine needle mulch is
attractive and lightweight. It allows water and air to easily penetrate the
soil, and is especially beneficial when placed around flowering plants like
azaleas and hydrangeas.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Shredded native</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Native mulch is created from recycled materials from tree
trimmers and landscapers, making it a very environmentally friendly choice. This
dark brown mulch is available in either finely or coarsely textured forms, and
resembles hardwood mulch.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Cedar</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Generated from trees that have been cleared for ranching or
development, reddish-brown cedar mulch has a nice odor and is available in
shredded or ground textures. It provides long-lasting results as a top dressing
in your landscaping, and some people even claim that cedar mulch repels
insects.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Compost</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another excellent top layer that is especially helpful to
your soil is compost. Dark brown and crumbly, compost may either be purchased
or generated yourself at home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Shredded rubber</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A more unique option, shredded rubber is often used in areas
like playground surfaces. Made from inorganic materials such as recycled tires,
this mulch lasts the longest of any type of mulch. It doesn’t decompose or blow
away, and is promoted as being a nontoxic way to suppress weeds. The downside
is that shredded rubber mulch doesn’t look natural, and even comes in colors
like red, blue, and brown.<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-24416366619462316602015-02-10T12:42:00.000-08:002015-03-31T19:58:22.989-07:00Don't Forget to Mulch!!<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Walk outside along one of the bayous or parks in the <st1:city><st1:place>Houston</st1:place></st1:city>
area, and look down. What do you see? In a healthy ecosystem, you won’t see
bare ground. Nature covers its own soil with plant growth, decaying matter, or
even inorganic matter. This is what you want to imitate in your own yard!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The best way to protect the ground in your garden and flower
beds at home is by using mulch, which is material spread over and around the
roots of your plants. Why should you use mulch?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">It preserves
the moisture in your soil, which means you don’t have to water as much. In
the hot <st1:city><st1:place>Houston</st1:place></st1:city> area, that’s a
big advantage!! Mulching will save on your water bill, as well as protect
your home from hard-to-remove stains that occur if you don’t have mulch in
the flower beds next to your house.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Mulch
regulates the temperature of your soil. In the winter, a layer of mulch
can prevent freezing. In the hot <st1:state><st1:place>Texas</st1:place></st1:state>
summer, mulch can keep top soil from reaching temperatures that inhibit
plant growth. </li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Mulch
protects your soil from erosion caused by wind and rain.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Mulch
significantly reduces weeds. That means prettier landscaping, and less
work for you!!</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When is the best time of year to apply mulch? It is ideal in
this part of <st1:state><st1:place>Texas</st1:place></st1:state> to put mulch
down in late Spring once the ground has started to warm up. So it’s time to
start thinking about what type of mulch you will choose for your own yard! You
want to protect and maintain healthy landscaped plants, shrubs, and flowers,
not to mention adding to the value of your home by making your yard look
beautiful and complete.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-49693135531208834182015-01-28T06:10:00.000-08:002015-03-31T20:00:09.962-07:00Protect Your Landscape<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
A well maintained landscape takes time, effort, and money so
you surely want to protect your investment! If cared for properly, your
landscaping will appreciate with each passing year. A shrub that you paid $100
to install a few years ago may be worth 10 times that amount today. Your
investment is literally growing in your yard, so make sure that you take steps to
protect and even enhance it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s no secret that the Houston area endured a very serious
drought over the past year. These conditions killed many plants and endangered
lawns and trees. The stress of this severe weather means that you need to pay
extra attention to your landscaping to help it regain its health.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First, the most obvious step is to water your landscaping
properly. Set up a schedule of adequate, consistent watering. It is best to
water your plants deeply and less often at a slow trickle, allowing the water
to thoroughly soak into the ground. When you dump a large amount of water on
hard, dry soil in a short amount of time, the water will run horizontally
across the surface instead of penetrating the ground to get to the roots.
However, when you water at a slow trickle (such as placing a hose at the base
of a tree for an hour where the water is barely running out), the moisture is
absorbed deeper. You should strive to give your plants this treatment weekly.
If you have a sprinkler system, be careful not to overwater.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Next, manage infectious diseases and destructive insects
that can attack your landscaping. By performing careful, regular observation of
your plants and lawn, you can spot most problems. Scheduled treatments and
preventative programs will also help avoid problems before they occur.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another important step is to get rid of weeds, which not
only look bad but they compete with your plants and decrease their health and
value. Make sure you keep your flower beds mulched and your grass thick and not
mowed too short. Also, using pre-emergent weed controls for your lawns and beds
will keep seeds from germinating.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally, give your landscape a regular diet of balanced
food. Fertilization timed for the most effective results is best, and will help
keep your entire landscape lush and healthy.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-22791940945343951432014-05-02T11:28:00.003-07:002014-05-02T11:28:11.897-07:00Putting the Spotlight on Landscape Lighting<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black;"> </span>A quality job of landscape lighting will turn an ordinary home
and garden into the extraordinary. It allows you to showcase trees and other
focal points, as well as to take the spotlight off of areas you’d rather people
not see. Lighting also provides safety and security, and a good way to increase
the value of your property. Whether you choose to go dramatic or subtle with
your lighting effects, you can create a whole different level of beauty at your
home.
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are a variety of options when it comes to landscape
lighting.</div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Up-lighting – To achieve
dramatic effects, up-lights are a great way to illuminate small trees or
ones with interesting trunks. Experts usually recommend using mercury
vapor lights for up-lighting purposes.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Down-lighting – The idea
of down-lighting is to mimic the effects of a full moon shining down on a
yard. When properly done, it creates unique shadows on the ground. Mercury
vapor is also a good choice for down-lighting because it highlights the
green colors in plants.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Feature lighting – This
can be compared to using a spotlight. Feature lighting is perfect for
highlighting fountains, address signs, sculptures, and benches.
Incandescent bulbs are recommended for this purpose because they bring out
the colors in materials like stone, brick, and wood.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Incandescent lighting – As
stated, incandescent lights emphasize colors and features of your home and
landscaping. A great benefit is that incandescent lights can be dimmed,
which allows for added drama. They are well-suited for lighting arbors,
columns, and other landscaping elements.</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;">Architectural illumination
– This describes the use of various lighting techniques to focus on a
home’s architecture.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition to selecting the type of landscape lighting that
best suits your goals and your property, there are some other important things
to consider. The voltage is one element to decide upon. High voltage lighting
illuminates large area of lawn and big trees. An example is mercury vapor
lights. Low voltage lighting usually requires 12 volts and are common for
illuminating residential paths and small items like sculptures, outdoor
fountains or fireplaces, and urns. Unlike high voltage lights that require
conduit, low voltage is less expensive; however, the wiring may be damaged
during yard work.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Another consideration is the type of controls for your
lighting system. Mechanical time clocks avoid wasting electricity and going
through lots of light bulbs, and are recommended for up-lighting, feature lighting,
and architectural lighting. Such timers are also helpful because you don’t have
to remember to turn the lights on and off. A different type of control is
called a photocell, which monitors natural light. Photocell controls are
commonly used with down-lighting.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the most important choices you’ll make about
landscape lighting is who will design, plan, and install your system. Expertise
is required to determine the ideal placement of lights so that you don’t see
too many fixtures or end up with glares. The experts at C4 Landscape and Design
are qualified to handle your lighting, whether it’s a big job or a small one.</div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"><a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/"><u>Contact Us Today!</u></a></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 18pt; margin: 0in 0in 12pt; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 18.0pt; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> </span></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-84935383925912790072013-11-01T13:12:00.002-07:002014-02-01T14:09:34.711-08:00Preparing your Yard for Cooler Weather<div class="MsoNormal">
Doing some things to get your yard ready for cooler weather
can make all the difference in improving its health. Spread the tasks out over
a few weekends and it won’t be so bad, or call C4 Landscape & Design to take the
work off of your hands. Even though the Houston area doesn’t get that cold
compared to some parts of the country, you will still be glad you get these
jobs done now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">Use a basic rake to
redistribute your mulch to allow water to access the roots more easily.
Plus, it perks your landscaping right up!<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Don’t fall victim to
piling your mulch up like a hill, which is an enticing spot for pests.
Instead, even out the mulch around trees and leave a few inches between
the mulch and the tree.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Do your research to learn
what kind of fertilizer is best for Fall, and apply it before it gets too
cold. Fall is the most important time to fertilize your lawn.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">If your lawn has bare
spots or dry patches, reseed those areas before lawn growth slows in the
cold weather.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Aerate your lawn to move
air among the soil, which promotes healthy grass. Also remove thatch, the
layer of dead grass and debris on your soil, which impedes the growth of
grass, blocks water from reaching roots, and promotes fungal diseases.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Keep your grass at least 2
to 2-1/2 inches tall. Even though it may be tempting to cut it short to
avoid more frequent mowing, your lawn won’t be as healthy.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Get rid of dried leaves,
branches, and twigs. Consider renting a wood chipper from a home
improvement store to create mulch full of nutrients for your landscaping.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Carefully prune your
bushes and trees, but be sure not to remove new growth.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Remove dead leaves,
branches, and dried fruit from perennials to lower the appeal to bugs.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Planting Spring bulbs now
will provide a longer time for their roots to develop and become strong.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Tune up your lawn
equipment such as the mower and leaf blower. Get them ready for storage in
the off-season so that they’re good to go next Spring.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
</div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-6740693268323581422013-09-02T19:28:00.000-07:002014-02-01T14:10:09.038-08:00End of Summer Lanscaping TipsSeptember is here, and although in the greater Houston area
that doesn't mean you can kiss summer weather goodbye, it does mean you can
start thinking about the autumn weather to come. There are some things that you
can do now to give your lawn and landscaping beds a better chance for success
when it starts to cool off.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: windowtext;">Brown patch disease in St. Augustine grass can
still be a problem into the Fall, so continue to watch for it.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal"><span style="color: windowtext;">If you have a dead spot or area that appears stressed
in your lawn, consider chinch bugs as the culprit. They can still thrive
in the Fall.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">For
warm-season grasses like most lawns in the Houston area, the final
nitrogen fertilizer application of the year shouldn't be any later than
September 15.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Pay attention
to your watering and make sure your landscaping is getting what it needs.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Damage from
white grubs can appear in September. If you notice a problem, apply soil
insecticide and water it in thoroughly. Ask your local garden store or
contact C4 Landscape & Design if you need suggestions for what kind to use.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">By the second
week of September, complete application of pre-emergent control for
winter-annual weeds on your lawn. You can skip this application if you are
planning to over-seed your lawn with rye grass. <o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
<div>
</div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-70940423093303847352013-08-01T07:14:00.004-07:002014-02-01T14:10:24.639-08:00Mowing Your Lawn: Do It Right<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the most important things you do in your landscaping
is mow your lawn. Your home’s curb appeal goes down the drain if you have poor
lawn cutting techniques that damage the lawn and promote weeds and insects.
Instead, your goal should be a neatly manicured lawn that will be the envy of
the neighborhood. How do you know the best mowing practices? Here are some
guidelines to help you achieve success.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Select the right mower</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Rotary mowers are the most popular type used for both
residential and commercial lawns, although they vary depending on the size of
the job. Homeowners usually opt for push mowers on small to medium yards where
speed and power aren’t a requirement. Larger riding mowers are a good choice
when push mowers aren’t sufficient. However, keep in mind that the blade turns
slower on bigger mowers and can rip the turf, which increases your lawn’s risk
for disease. Faster blades make sharper cuts that are healthier for your lawn.
Heavier big mowers can also cause soil compaction, inhibiting the ability for
air, water, and nutrients to pass through your soil. If you use a larger mower,
aerate your lawn annually to combat soil compaction issues.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Set the right height.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The height that you mow your grass is critical to its
health. It varies somewhat depending on the type of grass, but generally the
most important thing to know is the 1/3 rule. This rule means that you
shouldn’t cut any more than 1/3 of the leaf blade at any one mowing. Cutting
more than that at a time can cause drought damage or root stunting, especially
during the hot Houston area summers. If your lawn need to be cut more than 1/3
of a leaf blade, take several passes on your lawn over several days. This give
the grass time to recover and your lawn won’t be shocked so much.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Decide if mulching is right for your yard.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many lawn mowers come with the ability to mulch or shred
grass clippings and spread them back to your soil surface. Adversely, bagging
and removing clippings means your lawn will need more fertilizer because
valuable nutrients leaving with the clippings will need to be added back. Some
homeowners are afraid that returning clippings to your lawn creates a layer of
thatch that water and nutrients can’t get through, but this is false. Mulched
clippings from a routinely mowed lawn acts as an organic fertilizer. Thatch
from clippings is only a problem for lawns that are cut from high growth to
extremely low heights.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Mow at the right time.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
How often you mow depends on the amount of rainfall, sun
exposure, temperature, length of day, and fertilizer applications. Therefore,
you shouldn’t set a strict schedule for mowing. It is better to cut the lawn
when it reaches the needed height. And during the hot Houston summer months,
lawns should be mowed less frequently to lower drought and heat stress.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Know the right way.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Always alternate the direction that you cut your lawn every
other time you mow. Don’t follow the same pattern each time, because it can
increase soil compaction and cause inconsistent growth patterns. Also, make
sure your lawn mower blade is sharp. Disease and ripped turf become issues when
dull blades are used for cutting. Make a habit of sharpening your lawn mower
blades at the beginning of the mowing season, and you can make it easy on yourself
by taking the blades to your local hardware store.<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-48482015393587348642013-06-30T21:43:00.005-07:002014-01-24T08:05:29.132-08:00Drip IrrigationWatering your lawn and garden is
often not an easy task, and it can also get very expensive and waste water.
Drip irrigation offers an efficient and cost-effective way to water your
landscaping.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What is drip irrigation?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This type of watering system has
been used in dry areas of the country for some time, and the Houston area fits
the bill. It applies water slowly at the plant’s roots where it is most needed.
Plants are over 90% efficient in using the water applied, while other
irrigation methods like sprinklers are only 65% to 75% efficient. Also,
evaporation and runoff are reduced. Homeowners most often incorporate drip
irrigation into the bedding areas of their landscaping, as well as for watering
shrubs and trees.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What are the benefits?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal">The quality
and productivity of plants improve.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The areas
between plants remain dry, reducing weed growth.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">The efficiency
of drip systems saves money and water.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Leaking of
water and nutrients below the roots is minimized.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Uneven ground
is properly irrigated.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Leaves, fruit,
and stems of plants do not contact the water as much, preventing disease.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Is operation and upkeep difficult?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like sprinkler systems, drip
irrigation may be set to run automatically or controlled manually. Manual
control allows you to decrease watering after rainfall. Most drip irrigation
systems are designed to run every day without rain, and it may run once or
twice a day. Watering your landscaping early in the morning allows less
evaporation, while evening watering increases your landscaping’s risk for
disease. Maintenance of your drip irrigation systems involves regular checks
for proper function, and most companies provide detailed guidelines for you to
follow to keep your system running smoothly.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>What about the cost?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As you might guess, the cost of a
drip irrigation system varies according to the size of your target area and the
materials needed for your system. No matter what the size of your space, there
are upfront costs for items required in every system such as the pressure regulator
and backflow preventer. Ask Outdoor Development for an estimate for
incorporating drip irrigation into your own home’s landscaping.<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-46781322339889159532013-05-30T17:44:00.002-07:002014-02-01T14:11:09.909-08:00Pergolas versus Arbors<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Structures
are often used in landscaping to enhance or complement the beauty of the area.
They can incorporate a variety of features such as roofs, benches, swings, and
vines to make your garden more attractive and comfortable. Pergolas and arbors
are two types of overhead structures that are often referred to
interchangeably, but there are actually some notable differences between the
two.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>What
is an arbor?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Usually
comprised of a trellis as some part of its makeup, an arbor tends to form a
tunnel-like passage of climbing plants. Arbors are often shaped like an arch,
and most have a continuous length of latticework running from one side to the
other. These garden structures are usually relatively small.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>What
is a pergola?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Also
designed to support climbing plants, pergolas are larger structures and have
posts that support a roof. They are often used to provide shade for a walkway,
patio, or deck area. Pergolas typically include more extensive architectural
design than arbors, such as columns reminiscent of their original Italian
background. Vines may be incorporated to create a canopy over the roof of the
pergola, providing even greater shade. Pergola roofs may be made up of lattice,
vines, fiberglass or other materials.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><b>Why
should I consider adding a structure to my landscaping?</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Whether
you opt for a pergola or an arbor, these structures can extend your living
space into your yard and provide a lovely transition from inside to outside.
You can create the effect of an outdoor room, especially with a larger roofed
pergola, and add valuable shade. The results of incorporating a pergola or
arbor can add interest, value, and appeal to your landscaping to transform your
area from ordinary to exquisite. C4 Landscape & Design can assist you in choosing
the right plants for your structure. This may include climbing vines to add
color, depth, and beauty as well as plants and beds to surround your structure
and tie all of your landscaping together perfectly.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-51530530146608660072013-03-28T20:32:00.003-07:002014-02-01T14:11:39.355-08:00The Best Tree Choices for the Houston AreaThe Houston area is rather unique in the requirements that this
environment places upon its landscaping to grow well. This is true for trees,
because the healthy ones must be able to thrive in this setting. The soil here
is acidic and dark brown or black clay. With a subtropical climate that brings
occasional freezes during the winter, the Houston area has an average yearly
rainfall of over 40 inches. However, some years bring drought conditions with
much less rain! Trees need to be able to survive in drenched soil mixed with
periods of drought, which is a tough requirement. Also, trees must be resistant
to fungus and mildew common to the high humidity that Houston is famous for.<br />
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So what are some trees that are able to thrive even with
these difficult requirements? Here is a list of the best options for trees that
will be successful around Houston.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Live Oak</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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A large spreading tree with very strong branches, live oaks
typically grow to be 35 to 50 feet tall. Their spread can be as wide as 75
feet. Live oaks grow very slowly, not being considered a mature tree until age
50. Healthy live oaks can live for 400 years! It is an evergreen whose leaves
drop in February, but the tree quickly begins forming new growth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Shumard Oak</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Shumard oaks are most known for stunning Fall color, adding
yellow and red leaves to your Houston landscape. Shumards are low maintenance
trees that grow to be 75 feet tall with a spread of 45 feet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Bald Cypress</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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These tall trees can reach 100 feet in height and 30 feet
wide. Tolerant of both wet and dry soils, the foliage turns to a beautiful
burnt orange color in the Fall. Sometimes bald cypress trees product knobby
growths from their roots that may impede lawn equipment, but other than that
the bald cypress is a great landscape choice for the Houston area.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Southern Magnolia</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Known for producing great big fragrant white blooms in the
late Spring, magnolia trees are drought tolerant but also grow well in moist
acidic soil. These trees can reach 90 feet tall with a spread as wide as 50
feet. It is an evergreen tree with broad dark green leaves. Magnolia trees can
grow a lovely thick canopy with their large leaves and branches.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Dogwood</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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The smallest of the trees discussed here, dogwoods reach 30
feet tall and 15 feet wide. They are known for their beautiful white bracts
resembling flowers that appear in early Spring prior to the foliage on the tree.
Dogwoods grow most successfully when planted beneath other shade trees or areas
that are protected from the hottest sunlight.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Sweetgum</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Shaped like a pyramid, the sweetgum tree grows up to 100
feet tall and 25 feet wide. With broad leaves that provide outstanding color in
the Houston area, they glow in shades of red, yellow, and orange during the
Fall. The downfall of sweetgum trees is that they produce spiny balls that may
be frowned upon as messy in your yard.<span style="font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-34756783851961281582013-01-31T20:20:00.001-08:002014-02-01T14:12:08.582-08:00Landscaping Tasks for Late Winter and Early Spring<br />
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There’s one thing you can count on for sure about the
weather in the Katy area: you can’t count on it! One day it’s 30 degrees
outside and the next it’s 80. You just can’t predict what to expect, especially
in February, when the yards of Katy don’t know if it’s winter or spring. You
don’t want to jump the gun with your landscaping, only to have another hard
freeze undo your work. But then again, you don’t want to be left behind in
landscaping tasks that can prepare your lawn and garden for a beautiful spring
ahead. Here’s some advice about what you should be doing now, as the growing
seasons approach.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Pruning</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the big keys to gorgeous landscaping in the months
ahead is to prune now. Pruning is a regular task in maintaining your plants,
and involves selectively removing certain plant parts. Some great reasons for
pruning include improving the appearance and health of plants, controlling a
plant’s size, training young plants, preventing property damage or personal
injury, encouraging flowering and fruiting, and restoring old plants. Here are
some guidelines for pruning in February:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal">Trim dormant native plants
and woody perennials that resemble sticks. This helps new shoots flourish
later.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Prune trees, especially the
oaks that are so common in Katy landscaping. Doing this in cooler weather
helps avoid diseases like oak wilt. Don’t forget to prune your crepe
myrtles too.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal">Tend your roses by
fertilizing and pruning them to encourage strong, healthy leaves and attractive
buds.<o:p></o:p></li>
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<b>Weeding</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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There’s no way to put this strongly enough….WEED your
landscaping now!!! If you neglect this important landscaping task, you’ll be
dealing with the seeds for months and months to come. Don’t succumb to using
chemicals during this time of year, because they won’t successfully do the job.
Weeding needs to be done the old-fashioned way of digging them out with a
shovel, getting all of their roots, and consistently watching for new sprouts and
yanking them as soon as they appear. It’s also a good idea to mow the lawn
regularly to help control weeds, even though you may not think your grass needs
mowing.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Preparing</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Any planting or transplanting of shrubs and trees should be
completed very soon, before the Katy heat kicks in for good. Prepare your
gardens and flower beds by testing the soil, adding fertilizer, and turning the
soil. Don’t forget to take a good look at your lawn. If you notice any brown
patches, treat the lawn in late February with a fungicide. This is the right
time to protect your lawn from further damage and to get it in good shape for
the warmer seasons ahead.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a></div>
C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6114392927157957754.post-18000386953731734012012-12-05T06:55:00.004-08:002014-02-01T14:13:03.238-08:00Low Maintenance Landscaping<br />
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You want your landscaping to add
beauty to your home and provide curb appeal, but you also don’t want to have to
spend all your free time working in the yard. Just because you desire low
maintenance, it doesn’t mean it has to be unattractive. Here are some tips for
creating a beautiful outdoors at your home with minimal ongoing effort.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Irrigation</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the biggest aspects of lawn
care that steals your free time is carting around the hose and sprinklers. An
automated irrigation system takes care of the watering tasks for you, and keeps
everything growing even during the dry spells that hit the Katy area. All you
have to do is keep an eye on your yard, and adjust the timer settings as needed
for periods of heavier rainfall.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Drainage</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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A big part of the success of your
landscaping has to do with drainage. A professionally designed drainage system
will get rid of standing water so it doesn’t build up after a heavy rain. This
can damage your landscaping, leading to rotting roots and unhappy plants. And
don’t forget the breeding ground for mosquitoes that standing water creates in this
part of Southeast Texas! A proper drainage system also inhibits erosion, and
makes your yard less muddy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Hardscapes</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Structures created from durable
products like flagstone and natural stone will lower the amount of upkeep you
must do in your landscaping. These weather resistant materials reduce demands
for cleaning and repairs to patios, paths, and driveways. Hardscapes such as
these are also aesthetically pleasing, upgrading your landscaping to the next
level instead of the use of cheap materials.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Plant and tree selection</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Consider planting slow-growth
plants and trees, which do not have to be trimmed as frequently as their fast
growing counterparts. Quarterly fertilization and trimming can easily be
performed to maintain the health of these types of selections. One important
thing to remember in the Houston area is to carefully choose your plants so
that they’ll thrive in these unpredictable weather conditions. It may be
helpful to seek the advice of experts who are well-versed in the best
landscaping choices for this extremely variable climate.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Expert help</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Not only is it useful to ask
landscaping professionals to help you with your plant and tree selections, having
them design outdoor areas is a great way to cut down on maintenance jobs.
Converting some portions of your yard into outdoor living areas such as patios
or decks can help. Such structures resist the elements and require less upkeep
by the homeowner. Contact C4 Landscape & Design today to get started on transforming
your landscaping into a low maintenance, yet beautiful setting.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="http://www.c4landscape.com/contact.html" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank">Contact C4 Landscape & Design today for all your landscaping needs.</a><br />
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C4 Landscape & Designhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15090673460840083090noreply@blogger.com0