Company News – American Landscape

2026 Local and Global Landscape Trends

January 22, 2026/in Company News/by Mary Monday

What’s hot in landscape design?

Fire tables. Gone are the smoky, circular fire pits of the past. While in some situations they are the perfect, cozy solution, they can look outdated in the modern landscape.

Fire tables come in various lengths, with a gas burner down the center and decorative stone. Often built with social situations in mind, they have wide caps for setting food and drink, and can be built at a multitude of heights and lengths, custom fit to work in your space.

With the right design, they easily fit into a new landscape, a renovation, or a commercial application. They work with natural gas or propane and can be upgraded with an electric start. This hot aspect of landscape design has really taken hold in our Wisconsin climate!

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What’s new in landscaping materials?

2026 Local and Global Landscaping Trends

Porcelain has been around forever, but seldom used in landscape application in northern areas, like Southeast Wisconsin. Modern engineering has developed pavers that don’t absorb moisture like traditional pavers, are stain & weather-resistant, and come in a multitude of styles. These are an affordable way to bring some major elegance to the exterior of your home. Less slippery and don’t absorb heat around pools.

What’s trending in hardscapes?

For a long time using one product line to create your hardscapes was the way to go. You could choose a color and style and have a cohesive look across the board. Hardscape have taken the leap from standard to artistic by using a multiple of coordinating materials to create a custom, unique look that won’t be duplicated by the landscaper doing your neighbor’s yard.

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Pro Landscaping Tip: Accessorize!

Like an amazing outfit, a top-notch landscape is accessorized. Considering adding containers for annuals or herbs, benches, arbors or trellises for vines, small water-features, or a piece of art or statuary as a focal point.

Plan your landscape with intention

We all have different goals for our green spaces. What is the purpose of your space? Planting for pollinators or bird friendly yards? Edible landscapes? Pet friendly? Simple and low-maintenance? Drought tolerant? Minimalistic? Abundant? Eco-friendly? Let your designer or landscape maintenance technician know how you want your yard to function; it is the key to working towards that goal.

Technical advancements in landscaping

There are so many technological advancements that can enhance your landscape. Lighting, irrigation, and music all can be run by the touch of a button on your phone. AI and the internet, of course, are valuable sources of information for all things landscape. Just remember to cross-reference or use multiple sources to gain your information. Working an expert in the industry is going to be one of your best resources as they know the most about your local environment, city requirements, climate conditions, and product availability to help you make the right choices.

Refresh and renew your existing landscape

When was the last time you really stood back and looked at your landscape? When you built or moved in? A professionally renovated or maintained yard can add value to your home in curb appeal; hardscapes add value you can see on the bottom line. A skilled designer can re-imagine your landscape to fit with your home, no matter the age or style of the house. Planting bed renovations can increase or reduce bed space, allow you to keep or divide existing plants, and bring in newer varieties that may be easier for you to maintain. Scheduled clean-ups or pruning visits can tame unruly shrubs and trees, increasing visibility and security. There are many affordable options to give your home or business a little face-lift without breaking the bank.

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Color Selections for Garden Beds

There are multiple competing ideas out there regarding color trends. Every year product lines come out with new products and colors. Pantone, Valspar and others come out with their “Color of the Year” each year. We always suggest you go with what works best with your house and style. You can easily paint interior walls and buy new pillows to follow trends, but your hardscapes are there for a considerable amount of time and not so easy to change. Trusting your designer for placement of plants based on their behavior is always good, but ask for colors that you like. There will always be compromise since not all plants come in all colors or the right sizes, but you can always supplement with trendy annuals for impact. Essentially, trust your designer to provide you with good options, but provide them with enough direction so they are helping select what’s best for you.

Global Landscaping Trends

Global trends tend to indicate where the landscape industry is going as a whole. Adapting to more intense climate situations, planting a biodiverse landscape and technology are the hot topics.

While municipalities are grappling with reassessing drainage issues, wetland designation and shoreline setbacks, designers and architects around the world are trying to predict and mitigate these situations as well.

Many people disdain the newer regulations requiring specific amounts of green space to be included in new construction or renovation in urban areas. The flooding we experienced in the greater Milwaukee area this summer reflects the lack of green space and designs that slow down the movement of the water. The amount of damage done far exceeded the cost of the extra green space. Don’t, however, assume that any regulations or efforts will ever completely solve the issue when unprecedented amounts of rain are falling, but the severity and extent of the damage could be greatly reduced. Conversely, severe drought is plaguing areas requiring adapting design towards conserving and using less water.

Biodiversity is regularly showing up at the top of the list. As global trade is a common practice now, even with enormous regulations for plants crossing country and state borders, insects and diseases make their way into, and across, our country. Insects and diseases are fairly species specific. We are all pretty familiar with Emerald Ash Borers. If you had an ash tree in your yard, unless it was treated, it was most likely killed in the last 10 years or so by EAB. With diversity in your yard, you may have only lost one tree. For those that loved ashes, or had them on your city streets, the amount of death was extensive and expensive. People love blue spruces, but with several fungal diseases and blights affecting them, the lines of them that were used for screening are dying as the diseases move through them. Planting an array of species and incorporating some natives into your yard is a great way to prevent massive loss when another new insect or disease rears its head.

Finally, AI. Everyone wants to know how AI is working in the landscape industry. Using it to manipulate existing plans, documents and images is a trend across the industry. The speed of information gathering and consolidating data, as well as improving business presentation and communication, is absolutely fantastic. According to some of the top global firms, however, it’s still “garbage in, garbage out.” The caution here is that we can augment and improve processes within the industry, but we currently aren’t at the point where we can fully automate the nuances of proper landscape design and architecture.

In contrast to technology, there appears to be a growing return to customer service and personal customer experiences. By implementing efficiency through technology, however, professionals are able to focus on creativity, client satisfaction and relationship building. Working with an experienced landscape professional helps ensure these trends are applied correctly and effectively to your property.

By partnering with American Landscape, you gain a team that understands these trends and applies them thoughtfully to your property—helping you create resilient, beautiful landscapes designed for today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.

5 Seating and Retaining Wall Styles to Add Comfort and Purpose to Your Patio

October 3, 2025/in Company News/by Mary Monday

Backyards with hills or uneven ground can be difficult to use, especially when patios feel too small or undefined. Retaining walls and seat walls are two solutions that not only solve these challenges but also improve the comfort and usability of outdoor spaces.

Retaining walls provide structure by holding back slopes and creating level ground. Seat walls add everyday function, offering built-in places to sit and gather. When used together, they balance strength with comfort, transforming a yard into a space that feels purposeful and complete.

This article highlights five seating and retaining wall styles that enhance both comfort and character on patios, making them better suited for gatherings, relaxation, and year-round enjoyment.

Why Add Seating and Retaining Walls to Your Patio?

Backyards with slopes or uneven ground can be beautiful, but they often limit the amount of space that can be fully enjoyed. That is where retaining walls and seat walls come in.

Retaining walls stabilize slopes, prevent erosion, and increase the usable ground area. Built with precast concrete blocks, natural stone, or dramatic outcrop stone, they create strong terraces and level areas that feel safe and functional.
Seat walls add the comfort that patios often lack. They provide built-in seating, help define gathering areas, and give the space an everyday purpose.
Together, they strike a balance between practicality and design. Retaining walls provide structure, while seat walls invite connection, making the backyard both usable and welcoming.

For lake country homes with walk-out basements or new builds on Waukesha County’s rolling terrain, the combination of seating and retaining walls often turns an underused yard into a place for gathering, relaxing, and enjoying the view.

Retaining Walls Do More Than Hold Soil

Retaining walls are often viewed as purely functional, but they can also significantly contribute to shaping the overall look and feel of a patio. Beyond preventing erosion and stabilizing a slope, the right design can add depth, definition, and style to outdoor spaces.

Frame the patio: A retaining wall helps define the edge of a patio, giving the space a clear boundary and sense of purpose.
Add texture and contrast: Natural stone or precast block introduces visual interest and complements plantings, pavers, and other landscape features.
Incorporate lighting: Built-in lighting within or along a wall adds safety for evening use while creating warmth and ambiance after dark.
Create tiered spaces: Multi-level retaining walls can transform steep yards into inviting terraces, each with its own function, whether for seating, planting, or entertaining.

With thoughtful planning, retaining walls shift from being a hidden necessity to a defining feature that makes a patio feel intentional and complete.

Seat Walls That Bring Comfort and Connection

While retaining walls focus on structure, seat walls bring everyday comfort to the patio. They provide a built-in solution that goes beyond furniture, helping the space feel more permanent and designed with purpose.

Built-in seating: Seat walls create natural gathering spots around fire pits, dining areas, or patios, offering durable and low-maintenance seating.
Planter integration: Designed with space for greenery, flowers, or herbs, seat walls soften the hardscape and add seasonal color.
Define gathering areas: A low wall can frame a patio or outline a fire feature, creating the feeling of an outdoor room.
Pair with retaining walls: Together, they balance comfort and support — retaining walls shape the land while seat walls make the finished space more inviting.

When planned alongside retaining walls, seat walls help transform a patio into a welcoming destination for family and friends.

5 Seating and Retaining Wall Styles That Transform Outdoor Living

Both retaining walls and seat walls can be constructed from a variety of materials, each offering its own unique look, feel, and function.

The style you choose depends on the character of your home, the slope of your land, and the kind of outdoor experience you want to create.

From rugged stone that blends seamlessly into natural surroundings to sleek, modern options that make a bold statement, there is a wall style to fit every vision.

1. Outcrop Stone: Natural & Dramatic

Outcrop stone creates a bold, natural look that feels like part of the landscape itself. Its massive slabs are ideal for retaining steep slopes, making it especially suited for lake houses with walk-out basements or homes built into rolling hills. Bold and striking, it provides both stability and presence.

Each wall takes on a unique character due to the irregular shapes of the stone.

Layered pieces create depth and visual interest, while surrounding plantings soften the edges and help the wall blend into the environment.

The result is a structure that looks timeless while adding usable space,

2. Wall Stone: Timeless & Versatile

Wall stone offers a refined yet natural look that complements a variety of landscapes. It provides the structure needed for retaining walls while giving patios and gardens a classic feel.

This style is versatile, fitting just as well with a traditional home as with a more contemporary design.With cut and stacked pieces, wall stone creates clean lines without losing the warmth of natural material.

Subtle color variations in the stone add depth, while careful placement produces a uniform, enduring appearance. It strikes a balance between strength and timeless style.

3. Precast Concrete Block: Strong & Adaptable

Precast concrete blocks are engineered for durability, making them a reliable choice for both retaining and seating walls.

Its strength allows it to handle grade changes and create lasting terraces, especially in new construction on hilly terrain or suburban backyards that need defined outdoor spaces.

The modular nature of concrete block makes it highly adaptable. Blocks can be arranged in clean, uniform lines for a modern look or paired with other materials to add contrast.

Smooth finishes and consistent shapes give patios a polished, intentional feel while ensuring the wall stands strong for years to come.

4. Corten Steel: Bold & Contemporary

Corten steel introduces a modern edge to outdoor spaces with its signature weathered patina.

Over time, the material develops a rich, rust-colored finish that complements stone, wood, or greenery beautifully. It is a striking option for homeowners who want their patio to feel artistic and contemporary.

Beyond its bold appearance, corten steel is durable and low-maintenance, designed to withstand the elements.

Used as seat walls or low retaining walls, it adds warmth and definition while creating a sleek focal point that sets the space apart from more traditional designs.

5. Mixed Materials: Creative & Customized

Blending materials is a way to make both seating and retaining walls feel truly personalized.

Stone paired with wood, metal, or even corten steel accents adds depth and character beyond what a single material can provide.

This approach is ideal for homeowners who want a patio that reflects their own style rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.

Mixed materials also open the door to creative features. Lighting can be integrated for safety and ambiance, or contrasting textures can be used to define different areas of a patio.

Whether applied to a seat wall that frames a gathering space or a retaining wall that shapes the land, this style creates a backyard that feels purposeful, welcoming, and unique.

Build Beauty and Purpose into Every Outdoor Space with American Landscape

Seating and retaining walls serve different functions, but together they create patios that are stable, comfortable, and welcoming.

Retaining walls shape the land, while seat walls provide daily usability. The result is a space that feels purposeful and complete.

American Landscape can help you design and build walls that balance beauty with purpose, creating a space you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Ready to reimagine your outdoor space? Connect with American Landscape’s design-build team to explore seating and retaining wall solutions tailored to your home.

Raised Garden Beds vs. In-Ground Planting: Which Works Best for Your Space?

July 29, 2025/in Company News, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

Each year, as Elm Grove prepares for its Fourth of July fireworks, cars wind through quiet neighborhoods on the way to the park. Along the route, something else stands out — the gardens. By early summer, they seem to have transformed overnight.

What was bare soil in May is now full of color and texture: tomato vines climbing trellises, herbs nestled in raised beds, and wildflowers softening backyard fences. Every yard offers its own version of what it means to grow something well.

Some homeowners prefer the structure and simplicity of raised beds. Others work directly with the land, planting into the soil that’s been there for generations. Across southeastern Wisconsin, both methods have earned a place in local landscapes for good reason.

If you’re planning a new garden or expanding what you already have, your layout matters. It influences how your garden functions, what you can grow, and how much you’ll enjoy spending time in it.

What’s the Difference Between Raised Garden Beds and In-Ground Planting?

When planning a garden, one of the first decisions to make is how you’ll grow your plants. Two of the most popular methods are raised garden beds and in-ground planting. Each offers unique benefits and challenges, and the right choice depends on your space, goals, and soil conditions.

Let’s take a closer look at how each method works.

Raised Garden Beds Explained

Raised garden beds are freestanding structures built above ground level. Gardeners typically fill them with high-quality soil blends that match their planting needs.

These beds are often built with:

Natural wood (such as cedar or redwood): Naturally rot-resistant and affordable, making it a popular DIY option.
Galvanized metal panels: Extremely durable and long lasting, with a modern look that resists rot and pests
Recycled composite boards: Made from recycled materials and designed to resist warping, cracking, and rot over time.
Stone or masonry edging: Heavy-duty and permanent, offering a classic look and excellent insulation for soil.

Raised beds give you more control over:

Soil composition and drainage
Weed management
Garden layout and spacing

They also improve accessibility, especially for gardeners who prefer not to kneel or bend. Because the soil sits above ground, it warms up faster in spring and dries out more quickly after rain. That makes it easier to manage planting schedules and moisture levels. This method is suitable for gardens with poor or compacted native soil. It also suits small yards, patios, or any space where a tidy, organized layout is preferred.

In-Ground Planting Explained

In-ground planting involves growing directly in the earth without raised borders or imported soil. This traditional method uses the existing soil on your property and typically begins with soil testing and preparation.

Ground preparation begins with:

Tilling to break up compacted soil
Adding compost or organic matter to improve texture and fertility
Adjusting pH or nutrients based on soil test results

This method supports deep-rooted plants, allowing your garden to follow the natural contours of the landscape. It also works well for large garden beds where raised structures may not be practical.

In-ground planting is a good choice if you:

Have access to healthy native soil or are willing to amend it
Want to grow crops that require more root depth or horizontal space
Prefer a natural look that blends into the surrounding landscape
Are planning a larger garden that would be costly to build as raised beds

Although it may involve more physical labor at the start, in-ground planting offers long-term flexibility and room to scale. It remains one of the most cost-effective and traditional approaches to gardening, especially for expansive spaces.

Pros and Cons of Raised Garden Beds

Raised beds support intensive planting styles, such as square-foot gardening, making them ideal for maximizing yields in small spaces.

Loose, well-drained soil allows crops to grow closer together without competing for nutrients.

They also help with pest and disease control. The defined structure contains soil more effectively and makes it easier to install protective barriers, such as mesh or row covers.

On the downside, raised beds come with higher upfront costs due to the materials and construction required. They’re also harder to expand or move once installed.

In hot, dry weather, raised beds may require more frequent watering since they can lose moisture from all sides.

Pros and Cons of In-Ground Gardening

In-ground gardens offer long-term flexibility with minimal structural upkeep. There’s no need to maintain frames, and you can expand planting areas as your garden grows.

This method also supports a healthy ecosystem. Native microbes, earthworms, and beneficial fungi thrive in undisturbed soil, helping to improve long-term soil health and biodiversity.

However, in-ground beds can suffer from compaction, especially in clay-heavy soils or high-traffic areas. Poor drainage may lead to stunted growth or root issues if the soil isn’t well-maintained.

Weed control is also more demanding. Even with mulching and regular care, native soil tends to produce more persistent weed growth than contained raised beds.

Best Plants for Raised Beds and In-Ground Gardens

Wisconsin’s short growing season, cool spring temperatures, and varied soil conditions make it especially important to choose the right plants for your garden type.

Some crops grow best in the controlled soil of raised beds, while others thrive in the open layout of an in-ground plot.

Best Plants for Raised Beds

Raised beds warm quickly in spring and offer excellent drainage, which benefits crops that prefer consistent moisture and nutrient-rich soil.

Recommended plants for Wisconsin raised beds include:

Leafy greens: lettuce, spinach, Swiss chard, arugula
Cool-season herbs: parsley, cilantro, dill, thyme
Compact root vegetables: radishes, beets, turnips, green onions
Warm-season vegetables (with proper spacing and support): cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, bush beans
Fruits: strawberries (especially June-bearing or everbearing varieties suited for the region)

These crops respond well to the loose, amended soil and predictable watering conditions raised beds can provide, especially in early or late parts of the growing season.

Best Plants for In-Ground Gardens

In-ground beds are ideal for larger plants or crops that require more space to spread out or develop deep roots. Wisconsin’s well-drained loam and clay-loam soils work well for many staple crops once properly amended.

Recommended plants for Wisconsin in-ground gardens include:

Large vegetables: sweet corn, potatoes, pumpkins, squash
Sprawling vines: cucumbers, melons (especially Minnesota Midget or other short-season types)
Storage crops (crops that store well for weeks/months without losing quality): cabbage, carrots, rutabaga
Perennials and ornamentals: rhubarb, asparagus, daylilies, native grasses

These plants benefit from the extra space and deeper rooting potential that in-ground planting allows. Many of them also tolerate the heavier soil types found throughout much of the state.

Choosing the Best Garden Type for Your Landscape

The right garden style depends on your goals, available space, and level of commitment.

Raised beds are well-suited for smaller spaces, modern layouts, and gardeners who want more control over their soil and structure. They’re an excellent choice for intensive planting and easy maintenance.

In-ground gardens are better suited for larger spaces, deep-rooted or sprawling crops, and those who are comfortable with ongoing soil management. They offer flexibility and long-term scalability.

Some homeowners even combine both methods to strike a balance between productivity, aesthetics, and cost.

Choose the Garden That’s Right for Your Needs with Help from American Landscape

Every yard is different, and your garden should reflect that. Whether you prefer the structure of raised beds or the openness of in-ground planting,

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start building your ideal garden.

Spring Landscaping for Privacy & Security: Best Plants and Design Ideas

May 13, 2025/in Company News, Landscaping/by American Landscape

Have you ever stepped outside on a sunny spring morning only to feel like you’re on display?

It’s a common feeling—when there’s little space between you and the next door neighbor’s yard. However, privacy doesn’t always mean isolation. Just look at the Elmbrook Historical Society on Pilgrim Road in Brookfield. Despite being nestled right next to a busy road, it feels quiet, tucked away, and peaceful, thanks in large part to thoughtful landscaping.

Many homeowners in Lake Country come to us this time of year wanting that same feeling: more privacy without sacrificing the beauty of their outdoor space.

Whether it’s noisy neighbors, busy roads, or just the need to create a more peaceful space, privacy landscaping has become one of the most rewarding ways to reclaim your yard. And the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel when you step back and see your private oasis is truly satisfying.

Spring is the ideal time to start planting. With the right mix of native trees, shrubs, and perennials, you can create a natural barrier that grows fuller each year—offering visual coverage and a sense of calm. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple design strategies and the best plants suitable for creating a low-maintenance private outdoor space in Lake Country.

The Benefits of Landscaping for Privacy

Landscaping for privacy goes beyond blocking views—it changes how you experience your outdoor space.

Using plants instead of fences or walls creates a softer, more natural environment that feels peaceful and inviting. A well-designed privacy landscape can give you a quiet place to relax, cut down on noise from the street, and even make your property feel more spacious and secluded.

It also adds serious curb appeal. Layered plantings, seasonal color, and textured foliage create a dynamic look that enhances your home’s style and boosts its value.

Using native plants makes your yard more resilient and eco-friendly, supporting pollinators, birds, and local wildlife.

In short, it’s beauty and function – growing together.

Landscape Design Techniques for Privacy

You don’t need a huge yard or a tall hedge to create privacy—you just need a smart layout and the right plant combinations.

Here are a few go-to techniques we use when designing natural screens:

Layered Planting

Think of this as building a living wall with depth. Start with tall trees or evergreens, add mid-height shrubs, and finish with low-growing plants or ornamental grasses.

This layered approach creates a dense, visually interesting screen that feels organic—rather than boxed in.

Smart Placement

Where you plant matters just as much as what you plant.

Focus on key sightlines—between homes, along fence lines, or near patios and decks. A well-placed tree or a row of shrubs can make a huge difference in how open or protected your yard feels.

Natural Sound Barriers

Thick plantings do more than block views—they can also absorb noise.

Broadleaf evergreens, tall grasses, and dense shrubs can help muffle street sounds, neighbor chatter, or even air conditioning units. Mixing textures and plant heights helps disrupt sound while keeping things visually appealing.

Spring Planting Guide: Top Greenery for Natural Privacy

Ready to get planting?

These trees, shrubs, and supporting plants are not only beautiful—they’re perfectly suited for Wisconsin’s climate and make excellent natural privacy screens.

Imagine the beauty these plants will bring to your yard, creating a peaceful retreat that you can enjoy all year round.

Best Native Trees for Privacy Landscaping in Lake Country

Trees are the backbone of any privacy landscape. If you live in an area with a lot of deer, do your research before purchasing plantings. You don’t want to provide a winter buffet for the local herd. These varieties are known for their ability to grow quickly, provide year-round coverage, and thrive in Wisconsin conditions:

White Pine – Soft-needled and fast-growing. Great for windbreaks and larger spaces.
Black Hills Spruce – Compact and cold-hardy, this spruce offers a full, layered look that works well in smaller yards.
‘Techny’ Arborvitae – Ideal for hedging. Grows upright and thick and holds its shape beautifully.
‘North Pole’ Arborvitae – Tall and narrow—this is perfect for privacy in tighter areas where space is limited.
‘Star Power’ Juniper – Bred locally, this juniper provides dense coverage without getting too tall or wide.

Several deciduous trees, such as crabapples, serviceberry, redbud, hawthorn, and cornus mas, come with multiple stems and low branching, providing screening in the summer months.

5 Shrubs for Privacy Landscaping

Once you’ve established height, shrubs help fill in the middle layer of your design—providing texture, seasonal color, and even food for local wildlife:

Gray Dogwood – Fills in fast and spreads into dense thickets. Bonus: it attracts birds.
Ninebark – Bold foliage and beautiful bark. Looks great massed together for coverage.
Red Twig Dogwood – A stunner in winter with bright red stems; thrives in tricky soils too.
Witchhazel – A native that can tolerate shade. Unique late fall flowers provide interest up to snowfall.
Privet – If you want a fast-growing wall, this is the plant. It can grow up to 2’+ per year. It can be tightly pruned to create a formal effect without sacrificing density, and can be kept to whatever height you prefer.

Supporting Privacy Plants: Grasses, Perennials, and Vines That Thrive in Lake Country’s Climate

Supporting plants bring your privacy design together by filling lower spaces, climbing up fences or trellises, and adding movement, color, and pollinator interest:

Native Grasses

Grasses are great for adding height, movement, and subtle structure to your landscape. These native varieties are low-maintenance and tough—perfect for borders, mixed beds, or open privacy screens:

Big Bluestem – Tall and swaying, it adds motion and screens at heights up to 8 feet.
Switchgrass – Low-maintenance and upright—great for wind and privacy buffers.
Indian Grass – Warm-toned and elegant with strong vertical lines.

Ornamental grasses for landscaping privacy

Tall Perennials

Tall perennials can serve as beautiful visual buffers while offering long-lasting blooms and supporting pollinators. Use them in clusters or to add vertical interest throughout your planting beds:

Cup Plant – Broad, leafy, and bold—with cheerful yellow blooms.
Bee Balm – A fragrant, mid-height filler that blooms for weeks.
Iron Weed – A not-often-used native, it is a favorite for butterflies in late summer. The tall purple blooms last through September.

Vines

If you’re working with limited space or want to cover a fence, pergola, or trellis, vines are an excellent way to build vertical privacy fast. These native climbers are vigorous and attractive, making them tough enough for diverse climates:

American Hops – Fast-growing, sun-loving, and perfect for vertical privacy.
Sweet Autumn Clematis – A vigorous grower that provides massive amounts of tiny, sweet-smelling, creamy white flowers in late summer – fall.

Pro Tip: For the best results, try combining all three—evergreens, shrubs, and perennials. Together, they create a dynamic and layered privacy screen that evolves with the seasons. You’ll get height, color, movement, and full coverage—without having to rely on a single plant type to do all the work.

Start Planting For Spring With Help from American Landscape

With the right plants and a thoughtful design, you can turn your yard into a private, peaceful retreat that feels like an extension of your home. Whether you’re looking to screen off a neighbor’s view, quiet a busy street, or simply carve out a cozy space for yourself, spring is the perfect time to get started.

At American Landscape, we specialize in creating landscapes that are not only beautiful but also functional. Our team can help you choose the right plant combinations, design layered layouts, and install everything with care—so your yard grows better with every season.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get expert help tailored to your space and goals.

Spring Landscaping Tips to Kickstart a Beautiful Yard

April 3, 2025/in Company News/by Mary Monday

As the days grow longer in Southeast Wisconsin, it’s time to give your yard some well-deserved attention. Preparing your lawn, trees, shrubs, and flower beds now will set the stage for a vibrant and healthy growing season. Here’s what you should be focusing on in the coming weeks.

Flower Power: Prepping Your Garden Beds

Uncover & Breathe: Remove any boughs or coverings from your perennial beds to allow plants the light and air they need to thrive.
Divide & Conquer: Once perennials like hostas, grasses, and daylilies show signs of growth, divide and transplant them as needed.
Instant Spring: Bring color to your yard with container plantings of cold-tolerant blooms like pansies, snapdragons, violas, and ivy.
Frost Watch: Be patient with tender plants—wait until after Mother’s Day to plant them to avoid late-season frosts.
Cool Crops: Cold-hardy vegetables like lettuce, cabbage, radishes, and carrots can be planted now—they thrive in early spring temperatures.
Feed & Protect: Apply compost or mulch to perennial beds before plants get too big and fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Now is also the time for your first application of pre-emergent herbicide to keep weeds at bay.

Lush Lawns: Get a Head Start on Green Grass

First Cut: Once your lawn reaches about 4 inches, mow it down to 3 inches, never removing more than one-third of the height at a time.
Seed & Sod: When soil temperatures rise at the end of the month, start planting grass seed or laying sod—just don’t forget to water regularly!
Weed Control: Apply pre-emergent crabgrass preventer now, and begin treating actively growing broadleaf weeds as soon as you spot them.
Core Aeration: If your lawn needs a boost, aeration reduces thatch, improves soil porosity, and strengthens root systems—especially important for those avoiding chemical treatments.

Tree & Shrub TLC: Helping Your Landscape Wake Up

Ditch the Winter Wraps: Remove any winter protection from trees, shrubs, and roses to prevent overheating and damage.
Plant with Care: New trees and shrubs can be planted now, as long as they are in a similar growth stage as local vegetation. Bare-root trees are a great option this time of year.
Hydration Matters: Even if there are no visible leaves, newly planted trees and shrubs still need water to establish their root systems.
Prune Wisely: Remove any winter-damaged branches, but hold off on pruning spring-blooming plants like lilacs and forsythia until after they bloom.
Feed & Mulch: A slow-release fertilizer, along with a layer of compost and mulch, will provide essential nutrients and moisture retention—just be sure not to pile mulch against tree trunks.
Protect Crabapples: If you spray for disease or insects, start now—but avoid spraying while the tree is blooming.

Spring is the perfect time to set the foundation for a thriving yard. By tackling these essential landscaping tasks now, you’ll enjoy a lush lawn, stunning flowers, and healthy trees and shrubs all season long. As always, our team stands ready to help you give your landscape the care and attention it needs to thrive during the growing season.

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Small Backyard Landscaping Ideas to Maximize Space & Beauty

March 26, 2025/in Company News, Landscape Design/by Mary Monday

A small backyard doesn’t have to feel limiting. With the right design choices, it’s an opportunity to create a functional and beautiful outdoor retreat.

Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance oasis, a cozy entertainment space, or a lush green escape, landscaping strategically can maximize every inch of your yard.

By incorporating smart layouts, vertical gardens, space-saving furniture, and natural elements, you can transform even the smallest outdoor space into a stylish and practical extension of your home.

In this guide, we’ll explore six creative and budget-friendly landscaping ideas to help you make the most of your small backyard—without compromising beauty or functionality.

6 Small Backyard Landscaping Ideas

Sophia loved the idea of having an outdoor space to enjoy, but her backyard never quite felt like one. It was small, uneven, and lacked the cozy charm she imagined when she thought of an inviting retreat. She wanted a space that felt intentional—a spot to unwind, read a book, or gather with friends. But every time she looked at it, she felt stuck.

If you’ve ever felt the same way, don’t worry—you don’t need acres of land to create a beautiful outdoor escape. Here are six small backyard landscaping ideas that can transform even the tiniest spaces into a personal oasis.

1. Design a Smart Layout to Make the Most of Your Space

A small backyard can feel bigger and more functional with the right layout. Instead of treating your yard as one open space, divide it into zones for different activities—like dining, gardening, and lounging.

Use angled pathways or curved borders to create flow and make the space feel larger.
Incorporate built-in features like seating with storage or raised planters to maximize every inch.
Keep sightlines open by using low-profile furniture and strategic plant placement, helping the space feel open rather than crowded.

By designing purposefully and efficiently, even the smallest backyard can feel expansive and well-organized.

2. Incorporate Lush Greenery with Vertical & Container Gardening

When ground space is limited, go up! Vertical gardens and container gardening let you add lush greenery without sacrificing room for seating or entertainment.

Install trellises, wall planters, or hanging baskets to bring greenery to vertical surfaces.
Try a DIY pallet planter for an affordable, space-saving way to grow herbs, flowers, or succulents.
Use containers in varying heights to create dimension—grouping plants together makes a small space feel more intentional and designed.

With the right approach, you can enjoy a vibrant, plant-filled backyard without losing valuable space.

3. Replace Grass with a Low-Maintenance Oasis

Traditional lawns require upkeep, and in a small backyard, they often aren’t the best use of space. Instead, consider low-maintenance alternatives that look beautiful year-round.

Swap grass for gravel, pavers, or decking to reduce upkeep and create a polished look.
Try ground covers like creeping thyme or clover for a softer, natural alternative to turf.
Create a rock garden with drought-resistant plants for a modern, eco-friendly design that requires little watering.

Ditching grass doesn’t mean sacrificing style—these options provide a chic, practical solution for small backyards.

4. Create Multi-Functional Outdoor Living & Entertainment Spaces

Your backyard should be more than just decorative—it should work for your lifestyle. Designing a versatile outdoor space ensures you get the most out of your yard.

Choose space-saving furniture: Folding chairs, stackable stools, or modular seating keep things flexible.
Incorporate built-in seating: Benches with hidden storage make a small space functional and clutter-free.
Add ambiance with lighting and fire features: String lights, lanterns, and a compact fire pit or tabletop fire bowl make even a small yard feel warm and inviting.

A thoughtfully designed entertainment space helps you enjoy your backyard—whether it’s for relaxing, hosting guests, or dining outdoors.

5. Incorporate Natural Elements with Hardscaping & Water Features

Balance structured elements like patios and pathways with natural touches to create a harmonious, visually appealing landscape.

Use stone pathways or gravel patios to define spaces while maintaining a natural feel.
Add a small water feature—a wall-mounted fountain, recirculating mini pond, or DIY bubbling pot brings soothing sounds without taking up space.
Blend hard and soft landscaping by pairing pavers with ornamental grasses, native plants, or decorative rocks.

Combining earthy textures and flowing water creates a serene, balanced outdoor space that feels structured and organic.

6. Keep Landscaping Simple & Low-Maintenance

The best small backyards are easy to care for without constant upkeep. Choosing the right plants and materials can save time while keeping your space beautiful and inviting.

Opt for native or drought-resistant plants that thrive with minimal watering.
Use mulch or decorative gravel to reduce weeds and maintain soil moisture.
Limit high-maintenance features—instead, go for durable, long-lasting materials like composite decking or stone pavers.

By focusing on low-maintenance solutions, you can spend less time on upkeep and more time enjoying your backyard.

Make the Most of Your Small Backyard Landscaping with American Landscape

A small backyard doesn’t mean sacrificing style or function—with the right design, it can become a relaxing retreat, an entertainment hub, or a lush green escape. By incorporating smart layouts, vertical gardens, multi-use features, and natural elements, you can maximize space and create an outdoor area that fits your needs.

At American Landscape, we specialize in transforming outdoor spaces of all sizes. Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance solutions, custom hardscaping, or a complete backyard redesign, our team can bring your vision to life.

Ready to upgrade your small backyard?