Drought-Tolerant Plants: Conserving Water and Beautifying Landscapes

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Drought-tolerant plants help beautify your landscape and conserve water, especially during the periods of blistering heat and water scarcity we sometimes endure in the Midwest. Drought-tolerant plants not only save on water usage but also reduce maintenance, providing both environmental and practical benefits. Here, we explore some prominent drought-tolerant plants that not only survive but thrive when water is scarce.

1. Sedum 

Drought tolerant plant: Sedum

Sedums are versatile succulents that can be found in many shapes and sizes. Their fleshy leaves store water, allowing them to survive prolonged dry spells. They’re also known for their star-shaped flowers that come in hues ranging from white to pink to red. Sedums are incredibly low-maintenance, require well-drained soil, and enjoy full sun.

2. Yarrow 

Drought tolerant plants: Yarrow

Yarrow, with its fern-like foliage and vibrant flower heads, is not only a magnet for pollinators but also a resilient option for dry gardens.

Its deep roots help it access moisture far beneath the surface. Yarrow thrives in full sun and can withstand poor, dry soils.

3. Yucca

Drought tolerant plants: Yucca

Yucca’s architectural appearance, characterized by its sword-like leaves and tall spires of bell-shaped flowers, makes it a standout in any landscape.

Native to arid regions, yuccas have adapted to thrive in dry conditions, making them excellent candidates for water-wise gardens.

 

4. Alliums

Drought tolerant plants: Allium

These ornamental onions are known for their striking spherical blooms.

Alliums have bulbs, which means they naturally store water for drier times. These plants prefer full sun and can tolerate poor, dry soil.

 

5. Native Grasses

Drought tolerant plants: Native Grasses

Grasses native to a particular region have evolved over time to withstand the local climate, making them an excellent choice for drought tolerance.

Examples of native grasses that do well in our region include sedge, Indian grass, and northern sea oats. They add movement and a natural aesthetic to landscapes.

 

6. Coneflowers 

Drought tolerant plants: Coneflower

With their daisy-like appearance and pink, purple, or white petals, coneflowers are not only beautiful but also resilient.

Their deep taproots pull up water from within the soil, allowing them to thrive even in dry conditions.

 

7. Russian Sage 

Drought tolerant plants: Russian Sage

Russian sage, with its silver foliage and lavender-blue flowers, is not only aromatic but also highly drought-tolerant.

It’s a favorite for many gardeners due to its ability to attract pollinators while withstanding dry, hot conditions.

 

8. Day Lilies 

Drought tolerant plants: day lilies

Day lilies, known for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers, are surprisingly hardy and can tolerate a variety of conditions, including drought. Their extensive root system allows them to access and store water efficiently.

Drought-tolerant plants are becoming increasingly significant in today’s changing climate. By incorporating these plants into your gardens, you will not only create a beautiful landscape but also do your part in water conservation. Moreover, these plants often attract local wildlife and pollinators, promoting biodiversity. As with all gardening endeavors, it’s essential to consider the specific needs of each plant and provide the best conditions for them to flourish.

If you need help designing a garden that flourishes throughout the growing season, no matter the rainfall, get in touch today. We have expert designers who can guide you towards low-maintenance, high-impact plants perfect for your landscape.

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Choosing the Right Landscape Maintenance Services to Keep Your Yard Looking Flawless

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A picturesque, well-tended yard is the crowning jewel of any property and a flawless landscape is every homeowner’s dream. Whether you own a commercial or residential property, a professionally maintained landscape can increase its value and make it more appealing for you, visitors, and the community as a whole.

Many property owners, however, are easily overwhelmed and frustrated by the maintenance required to keep their yard’s pristine condition and would rather invest in landscape maintenance services.

With the right landscape maintenance services, you can spend less time working on your yard and more time enjoying it.

If you’re unsure about the type of services you need or where to start, we’ve listed the most important considerations when choosing a lawn maintenance service.

Why Choosing the Right Landscape Maintenance Services is Crucial for a Flawless Yard

Choosing a landscape maintenance company should extend beyond services into trust and partnership. Don’t settle for a generic yard that blends in. Invest in a company that understands your goals, is reliable, and provides various services. With the right company, you’ll get:

  • Comprehensive services: A trusted landscaping company typically offers various services, from lawn care and mowing to tree trimming, pest control, and irrigation. This means you can get all the needed services in one place, saving you time and hassle.
  • Quality workmanship: A reputable landscaping company will have experienced professionals trained to deliver high-quality workmanship. They will use the latest equipment and techniques to ensure your yard looks its best.
  • Tailored solutions: A trusted landscaping company will take the time to understand your specific needs and preferences and tailor their services accordingly. This means you receive a customized solution that meets your unique requirements.
  • Regular maintenance: A reliable landscaping company will offer regular maintenance services to keep your yard looking its best throughout the year. This can include regular lawn mowing, trimming, fertilization, and seasonal services like leaf removal and snow removal.
  • Increased property value: A well-maintained yard can significantly increase the value of your property. Working with a trusted landscaping company ensures your yard is always in top condition, making it more attractive to potential buyers or renters.
  • Professional advice: A reputable landscaping company will have a team of knowledgeable professionals who can provide expert advice on caring for your yard. They can help you choose the right plants, advise on watering and fertilization schedules, and provide tips on how to keep your yard looking its best.
  • Peace of mind: By working with a trusted landscaping company, you can know that your yard is in good hands. You won’t have to worry about maintaining your yard yourself or dealing with unreliable service providers.

Working with a trusted landscaping company with a range of landscape maintenance services can help you achieve a beautiful and healthy yard with minimal effort on your part.

Factors to Consider Before Hiring Landscape Maintenance Services

A professional landscape maintenance service helps achieve a flawless yard. However, with so many options out there, how do you choose the right landscaping company? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. Consider these factors to ensure your yard gets the care it deserves.

Experience and Expertise

Want a yard that looks like it’s straight out of a magazine? Don’t settle for a subpar landscape maintenance company. Look for one with years of experience and a team of experts. With their knowledge and tools, they’ll know how to keep your yard looking fabulous, no matter what challenges come their way. From pesky pests to stubborn weeds, they’ll easily handle it all.

Reputation and Reviews

A company with a history of providing top-notch service and satisfied customers is one you can rely on. Don’t take the landscaping company’s word for it – check out their website, social media pages, and online reviews to see what others are saying. With a good reputation, you can rest easy knowing you’re in good hands.

Range of Services Offered

Don’t settle for a one-trick pony when it comes to your yard. When choosing a landscaping company, it’s essential to consider the range of services they offer. A company offering various services can provide a one-stop shop for all your outdoor needs, from lawn care to tree removal and hardscaping.

This can save you time and money by eliminating the need to hire multiple companies for different services. Additionally, as your needs change over time, a company that offers a range of services can adapt to meet those needs.

Pricing and Payment Options

When choosing a landscaping company, pricing and payment options are important factors. While you want to ensure that you get quality services, you also need to make sure you get a good value for your money.

Look for a company that offers transparent pricing, so you can get the quality services you deserve without breaking the bank. Additionally, some companies may offer different pricing plans based on the frequency of services or the scope of work required. This can help you customize your landscaping services to fit your budget and specific needs.

Services to Expect from a Professional Landscape Maintenance Company

Want a lush and beautiful yard without the hassle of doing it yourself? Leave it to the professionals! Here are landscape maintenance services you can expect from a reputable landscaping company:

Lawn mowing and trimmingLawn Mowing and Trimming

Regular lawn mowing and trimming are essential to keep your property looking neat and well-manicured. A professional landscaping company with the right equipment and expertise will ensure your lawn is healthy and attractive.

Pruning and Tree Care

Trees are essential to your outdoor space, but they need care to stay healthy and safe. A professional landscaping company provides regular pruning and tree care services to keep your trees in top condition without posing risks to your property or family.

Fertilization and Weed Control

Your plants and lawn need the proper nutrients to thrive, and a professional landscaping company can help. With regular fertilization and weed control services, your yard can maintain its health and beauty all year round.

Pest Control and Management

Pests can wreak havoc on your yard, causing damage to your plants and lawn. A reputable landscaping company provides pest control and management services to keep your yard healthy and free of pesky insects and rodents.

When Choosing the Best Landscape Maintenance Services in Milwaukee, Choose American Landscape

When it comes to maintaining the beauty and health of your yard, it’s crucial to choose a landscaping company that you can trust. American Landscape offers a comprehensive range of landscape maintenance services, from lawn care and tree trimming to fertilization and pest control – giving you peace of mind knowing your yard is in the best possible hands.

With 50+ years of experience serving the Milwaukee area, our team of experts has the knowledge and skills to keep your yard looking its best year-round. We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and delivering high-quality results.

Contact our team today to learn more about our landscape maintenance services and schedule your consultation!

July Landscaping Tips for Wisconsin

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The hot, dry weather of July in Wisconsin calls for careful tending of all the elements of your landscape. We’ve got some tips to help you avoid dry, brown lawns and drooping flowers during the heat of July!

Flowers

  • Water flower beds at least once a week during dry spells.
  • Remove old lily blooms.
  • Peony bushes may be mulched (if needed) and seedpods removed.
  • Fertilize container plantings.
  • Divide iris and daylily when done blooming. Cut leaves back to about 8″.
  • Deadhead flowers to encourage additional blooming.
  • Don’t let weeds go to seed. “A year of seeding equals 7 years weeding.”

Lawn

  • Mow and water as necessary. Raise mowing height to 3 ½”-4” during hot, dry times.
  • Irrigate lawn adequately to keep it from going dormant.
  • Monitor for fungal diseases and treat as necessary.

Trees/Shrubs  

  • Water newly planted trees weekly if needed throughout the summer and apply a mulch (3″ or less) to maintain even soil moisture.
  • During dry spells, water all trees deeply every 2-3 weeks.
  • Prune yews, junipers, and arborvitae by mid-July.
  • Scout for insect pests on trees and shrubs, especially aphids, elm leaf beetle and viburnum beetles.
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May Landscaping Tips

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The growing season is upon us and it is the perfect time to make sure your flowers, trees/shrubs, and your lawn are being cared for properly.  Our expert landscaping tips are tailored for the conditions we experience in Wisconsin gardens and landscapes.

Flowers

  • Remove spent flowers and foliage (once yellowed) on spring flowering.
  • Plant tender annuals after the last expected frost date, approximately May 15.
  • Set flower supports early. Let plants grow through them.
  • Over-wintered tender annuals or tropicals such as hibiscus, gardenia, mandevilla and geranium may be pruned, cleaned, fertilized and gradually introduced to a protected location outdoors once night temperatures reach 50°F.
  • Begin pinching top 1-2 inches of new growth on chrysanthemums to encourage full bushy plants.
  • Prune sage, butterfly bush, Russian sage and Caryopteris back to the point of new growth.
  • With sharp spade, edge flower beds.

Lawn

  • Fertilize with a slow-release nitrogen fertilizer and apply a broadleaf herbicide for weed control.
  • Make sure you are mowing at the proper height.  Never remove more than 1/3 of the turf height at one time.  We recommend keeping your grass at a length of approximately 3”.
  • Re-seed or repair damaged turf areas. Keep newly seeded or sodded turf areas well watered.

Trees/Shrubs  

  • Prune spring flowering shrubs right after they are done flowering.  These plants use the growing season to develop next year’s flowers, so pruning them late in the season will prune off next year’s blooms!  These include:  Forsythia, lilac, viburnum, fothergilla, kerria, mockorange and weigela.
  • Start monitoring your plants for pest infestations. Insects in moderation are a natural and necessary part of the environment, but excessive groups of them or excessive damage from them sometimes warrants treatment.  Contact your landscape professional for identification and a treatment plan.
  • Apply systemic insecticides to trees and shrubs (for example birch & viburnums) prone to borer right after they are done blooming.
  • It’s still a good time to apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to shrubs and perennials.

We are happy to help with all your landscaping needs, from regular lawn maintenance to hardscape projects, our team of experts can help you have an outdoor space that will be the envy of your neighbors! Get in touch today!

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What to Ask When Looking for Landscape Companies in Milwaukee

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Hiring a professional landscaping company

is the way to go to create a stunning outdoor space that perfectly blends with your home and reflects your personality. If you’re in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you’ll find plenty of landscape companies to choose from. However, not all landscape companies in Milwaukee are created equal.

Your home is your biggest investment, and landscaping is a significant part of the equation. It’s a place where you can relax and recharge inside and out. It’s where you’ll spend most of your downtime, enjoying time with friends and raising a family.

Building an outdoor retreat is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature and create a space that is uniquely your own. Finding a landscaping company that meets your outdoor needs is up to you. Researching your options and asking the right questions will help you find the right landscaping partner to bring your outdoor dream space to life.

Before taking that first step in your investment, you’ll want to consider the following factors and make sure you’re asking the right questions.

Let’s get started.

5 Things to Consider Before Hiring a Landscape Company in Milwaukee

When researching different landscape companies in Milwaukee, you must closely examine each company to determine who best meets your needs. You want to find a well-established company with a strong reputation for providing quality work. Here are five important things to consider when looking for landscape companies in Milwaukee, WI:

1. Your Budget

Building an outdoor retreat is a rewarding experience that will provide you and your family with years of enjoyment. However, it’s important to be realistic about the cost of your project and find a company that can work within your budget.

The cost of your landscaping is influenced by many factors, including:

  • Site conditions: including the size of your property, the topography of your property, and the condition of your soil.
  • Materials needed: Involves selecting the plants and materials that best suit your needs, determining the extent of desired stonework, and considering incorporating water features into your landscaping plans.
  • Per-service or per-hour charges: landscaping companies charge different rates for their services, so be sure to ask about these charges before hiring a landscaper.

Don’t be afraid to ask for a detailed breakdown of the costs when reviewing quotes. This will help you understand the costs associated with your project and whether or not they fit within your ideal budget.

2. The Type of Landscaping Services You Need

Do you need help with lawn maintenance, tree trimming, or landscape design? Before diving into the online abyss and beginning your research, ensure that you have a comprehensive list of requirements for your landscaper and their team/services.

By conducting thorough research, you can ensure that you select a contractor who can meet your specific requirements. This will not only save you time and effort, but also enable contractors to provide you with accurate quotes for their services.

3. The Landscaper’s Reputation

Doing your due diligence and researching the landscaping company’s reputation before hiring them can help you avoid potential issues down the road. Unfortunately, there are many contractors out there that are unscrupulous and/or unqualified. Checking their reputation before hiring them can help you avoid issues such as poor workmanship, unprofessional conduct, and/or poor customer service. A good reputation is a sign of a reliable and trustworthy company.

So, how can you research a company`s reputation? Things you can look for include:

  • Reviews from previous clients
  • Their website and their portfolio of work
  • Reviews from sites like Angie’s List, Google Business Profile, and Facebook

residential landscape award

Upscale Rural Farmhouse: 2020 WLCA Gold Award of Excellence for Residential Landscape Design & Construction

4. Their Experience

Look for a company that has been in business for several years and has experience working on projects similar to yours. An experienced team will be better equipped to handle unexpected issues and ensure that your project is completed on time and within budget.

5. Insurance

Finally, make sure that any landscaping company you hire is properly insured. This will protect you in the event of any accidents or damage that may occur during the project. A reputable landscaping company will happily provide proof of their insurance.

5 Questions to Ask When Looking for Landscape Companies in Milwaukee

Knowing what to look for in a landscape company can help you make an informed decision and get the best service possible. Below are five of the must-answer questions you’ll want to have ready when interviewing potential landscape companies:

1. What Landscaping Services Do You Offer?

Understanding the full range of services provided by the landscaping company you are considering is essential. Specialized services may vary from one Landscaping company to the next. While one company may focus specifically on landscaping or hardscaping, the other may offer a broader range of services. Make sure that the company you choose can provide the specific services you require for your project.

2. Can You Provide References?

A reputable landscaping company should be willing to provide references from previous clients. These references can be valuable in assessing their work quality and customer service level. Don’t be afraid to follow up with contacts and ask detailed questions about their experience working with the company.

3. Can You Demonstrate Relatable Work Experience?

Experience is a vital factor to consider when choosing a landscaping company. Be sure to ask whether each company can demonstrate or otherwise prove they have relatable work experience.

  • What is their work history like? (i.e., projects completed, project types, and project size)
  • Do they have a portfolio of completed projects?
  • Do they have a list of satisfied clients that you can contact?

A company with experience in your specific project can help them navigate any unique challenges that may arise. Additionally, you can ask to see photos or examples of similar projects they have completed.

4. What Is Your Timeline for Completing the Project?

When considering a landscaping project, it is essential to establish a clear timeline for completion. This will help you and the landscaping team coordinate efforts effectively and avoid potential delays.

A well-defined schedule allows for proper budgeting and ensures all parties expectations are aligned. Discuss the desired timeline during initial consultations and regularly review progress throughout the project to ensure milestones are met and any adjustments are made promptly.

landscaping maintenance

5. Do You Offer Maintenance Services after the Project Is Completed?

Choosing a company that offers maintenance services can ensure your outdoor space looks beautiful and well-maintained for years. You should inquire whether the company offers maintenance services post-project completion. This may include regular lawn care, tree trimming, or other ongoing maintenance tasks.

Additional Factors to Consider

With a little research and planning, finding the best landscaping company in Milwaukee for your project will be a breeze. You can narrow down your list of potential landscaping companies by addressing the questions and factors above.

Want to further refine your search for the best landscaping companies in Milwaukee? Then you’ll want to check out these additional considerations:

Communication

Good communication is key when working with a landscaping company. A company that communicates well will help ensure that your project runs smoothly and that you’re satisfied with the end result.

“The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.” – Vince Lombardi.

Open communication between you and your landscaping company will ensure that your project runs smoothly – but it’s vital to remember that communication is a two-way street. Make sure you choose a company that values communication and transparency.

Look for a contractor who is responsive to your questions and concerns and who provides regular updates on the progress of your project. This will ensure that your project runs smoothly from start to finish and that you are always in the loop!

Alternatively, ensure you are responsive to your landscaping company and provide them with any relevant information needed to complete the job. Your landscaping project needs to be seen as a group endeavor, with both parties working together to reach a common goal.

Materials and Equipment

The materials and equipment used by a landscaping company can greatly impact the quality of their work. Look for a company that uses high-quality materials and modern equipment. This will help ensure that your project is completed efficiently and to a high standard.

Their Design Process

Whether you’re looking for a sleek and modern look or a cozy and rustic feel, your contractor should be able to bring your dream to life! Don’t settle for a cookie-cutter design! Look for a company that takes the time to understand your unique vision and works with you to create a custom design that perfectly meets your needs.

The best way to do this is by asking for a consultation with your top candidates. This will allow you to get a feel for how they work and whether or not you’re a good fit. You’ll be able to discuss your preferences and requirements and inquire into the process and tools they use to help you see their vision for your project.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an increasingly important consideration in landscaping. A sustainable approach to landscaping will benefit the environment and save you money on maintenance costs in the long run. Look for a company that prioritizes sustainability and eco-friendliness in its work. This may include using native plants, minimizing water usage with a rain garden, and reducing waste.

Warranty

Finally, make sure that any landscaping company you hire offers a warranty on their work. Although varying across different providers, a landscaping warranty typically comprises several key elements to ensure customer satisfaction and confidence in the work performed.

Primarily, these warranties cover labor and materials for a specified period. Additionally, they may encompass plant replacement guarantees, coverage for hardscape or irrigation system components, and dedicated support for maintenance-related concerns. Check your contract for specific warranty details.

When Choosing Landscaping Companies in Milwaukee, Trust American Landscape

When looking for the best landscape companies in Milwaukee, thoroughly research before hiring. Ensuring your landscaping company fits your needs will give you quality results. You’ll find a company that will become a long-term partner in your landscaping needs.

American Landscape is a full-service landscape company offering various services to meet the needs of residential and commercial customers in the greater Milwaukee area. With a proven track record of quality work backed by our local clientele and being awarded over 20 accolades in the last three years, you can trust us to exceed your expectations.

Ready to get started? Contact American Landscape today!

APRIL Landscaping Checklist

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Flowers

  • Remove all boughs or coverings from your perennial beds to allow plants the light and air they need to grow.
  • Once actively growing, divide perennials like hosta, grasses and daylilies.  It’s also a good time to transplant if you need to move something.
  • Bring spring to your yard by planting containers with pansies, snapdragons, violas, ivy, forced bulbs, and other cold tolerant plants.
  • We can still get frost well into May so it’s best to wait to plant tender plants until after Mother’s Day at the earliest.
  • Some vegetables thrive in cold weather and are not hindered by frost.  If you want to grow vegetables try planting lettuce, cabbage, radishes, carrots, and other cold hardy veggies.
  • Topdress your perennial beds with compost or mulch before plants get too big.  They’ll still come up through a light covering without problem.
  • Fertilize beds with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer and apply your first application of pre-emergent herbicide (such as Preen) to landscape beds.

Lawn

  • Once lawn is actively growing and is around 4” tall, mow it to 2.5 to 3 inches, removing no more than 1/3 of the turf height at a time.
  • Once soil temperatures have warmed towards the end of the month you can start planting seed and installing sod.  It’s always a good idea to add some fresh topsoil to the area first, and remember to water, water, water!
  • It’s time to apply pre-emergent crabgrass control product, and as soon as you see weeds actively growing you can start treating for broadleaf weeds.  Remember to only use a product labeled for broadleaf weed control in lawns.
  • Core aeration can provide many benefits to your lawn by helping reduce thatch, improving soil porosity, reducing soil compaction, building strong root systems and increasing nutrient absorption.  If you’re someone who doesn’t want to use chemicals on your turf, aeration is your best route to get thick, healthy turf.

Trees/Shrubs  

  • The number one thing to do now is remove your winter protection from trees, shrubs and roses.  As temperatures warm, keeping wrappings and coverings on will damage your plants.
  • As tree and shrubs become available, they are safe to plant, as long as they are roughly in the same stage of dormancy or growth that our native trees are in.  If you buy a fully leafed out tree that was shipped here from a southern state, you will notice some setback and possibly damage as they are not acclimated to our climate.
  • It’s a great time to plant bare-root trees and shrubs.
  • Remember, even if there is no foliage on the plants, you need to keep them watered if it is dry.  Their root systems are developing underground.
  • Examine trees and shrubs for winter injury.  Prune out any damage.
  • There is still time to do some renewal and corrective pruning before plants leaf out.  Remember, don’t prune your spring blooming plants now (such as lilac, weigela, forsythia, etc.) as you will be pruning off flower buds.  The best time to clean those up is right after they are done blooming.
  • Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to trees and shrubs to give them a little boost.  Topdressing the root zone with compost and adding a light covering of mulch is also beneficial.  Remember to keep much at about a 3” maximum and do not mound it around the stems and trunks.
  • Spraying crabapple trees for disease and insects can be started now.  Remember not to spray while they are blooming!  If your tree is older and really an eyesore each year, consider removing it and planting something new. 

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