Spring Into Action: Prepare for the Growing Season

As the frost begins to thaw and the days grow longer, it’s time for homeowners in the greater Milwaukee area to turn their attention to the outdoors. Spring marks the beginning of a new growing season, and proper preparation now will ensure that your landscape thrives in the warmer months ahead. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, here’s some expert advice to help you make the most of your outdoor space.

Revitalize Your Garden Beds:

Spring Clean UpStart by clearing away any debris or dead vegetation that may have accumulated over the winter months. This will give your plants room to breathe and allow for better air circulation. Consider adding a fresh layer of compost or mulch to replenish nutrients and help retain moisture in the soil. Now is also the perfect time to divide and transplant any overcrowded perennials to promote healthier growth.

Nurture Your Lawn:

How We Keep Your Lawn Healthy and ThrivingMilwaukee’s cool-season grasses, such as Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass, benefit from early spring maintenance. If your lawn suffered from winter damage, overseeding with a suitable grass seed blend can help fill in bare patches and restore its lush appearance. Don’t forget to adjust your mower height to the appropriate setting for the season and start mowing regularly as soon as the grass begins to grow. We recommend that once your lawn is actively growing and is around 4” tall, you mow it to 2.5 to 3 inches, removing no more than 1/3 of the turf height at a time.

Refresh Your Hardscapes:

Hardscapes

Take a walk around your property to inspect any hardscape features, such as pathways, patios, and retaining walls. Look for signs of damage caused by freezing and thawing, such as cracks or uneven surfaces. Addressing these issues early on can prevent further deterioration and prolong the lifespan of your outdoor structures. Consider giving your hardscapes a thorough cleaning with a power washer to remove built-up dirt and grime, revealing their original beauty.

Plan for Pest Control:

With the arrival of warmer weather, pests such as aphids, snails, and Japanese beetles may become more active in your garden. Stay ahead of the game by implementing integrated pest management strategies, such as planting pest-resistant varieties, attracting beneficial insects, and using organic pesticides sparingly as needed. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pest infestation and take appropriate action to prevent damage.

By following these tips for preparing your landscape for the warmer months and the growing season, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a healthy and attractive outdoor oasis right in your own backyard. So, roll up your sleeves, dig in the dirt, and let the sights and scents of spring inspire you to create the garden of your dreams. Better yet, contact our experts to tackle these tasks for you! Get in touch today!

Landscape Trends for 2024

Landscape trends can be viewed as short-term fads in a localized area or on a larger scale as a global shift in thinking.  Instead of looking at what’s hot or not in landscaping, this year we’ve researched the big global trends in the landscape industry.  Below we touch on some of the larger points and how they affect what we do.

Adapting Planting Design to Climatic Trends

Drought tolerant plant: Sedum

Globally, regardless of whether it’s a natural cycle of the earth or the result of human interference, our climate is clearly different that it was 20 years ago and more.  If we want to be successful in our landscapes and gardens, we need to take those changes into consideration.  As conditions change, the key to a successful landscape is going to be adaptability. This is leading the landscape industry in our area to focus on plantings that can take more heat, less moisture, adapt to sudden changes in temperature and volatile weather patterns.

Permeable Paver
Hardscape design is now utilizing more natural products, permeable products and creating ecologically sound environments. Fortunately, we live where we have many options and adaptability and durability are regularly taken into consideration as we design your living space.

Encouraging Biodiversity

Biodiversity is another global issue that affects landscaping trends.  Generally speaking, biodiversity refers to having a mix of different species in order to develop a balanced and resilient ecosystem.   In the past we have planted monocultures and used every chemical under the sun to sterilize our yards. We now know that landscapes that are lacking in a mix of species are more susceptible to larger problems.  For example, the most recent, and highly publicized, crisis is the Emerald Ash Borer.  This insect has devastated the ash tree population throughout the Midwest in recent years.   Some people were lucky and only lost one tree.  Unfortunately, many people, parks and business had multiple ash trees and lost the majority of their tree cover.  A diverse landscape would have lessened the impact of this issue on an individual scale.  While the trees still would be gone, we would not have gaping holes left in our landscapes had we taken diversity into consideration.

Here in the United States we have started following in the steps of the Europeans by trying to bring back the native biodiversity to our cities, businesses, parks and homes for the health of our environment.  Many homeowners and businesses are now requesting diverse native plantings and a reduction in chemical usage on their properties in an effort to increase biodiversity.  Here at American Landscape, our job is to find the balance between creating and managing a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape while looking for ways to incorporate more ecologically friendly plants and materials amongst a wide range of client needs and desires.

Advances in Design Software and Technology

3_D Designs

Technology in landscaping, as within every other industry, is rapidly growing.  Over the years, we’ve developed the capability to present designs in 3-D to help the client envision the outcome of the project. This tool not only helps the client get a realistic glimpse of how the finished product will appear – they can also see how it will change from day to night, as well as through the seasons, or even as it matures.

It also helps fine tune the estimating of hardscapes such as walls, patios and firepits.  Seeing your landscape lighting at night or easily adding or removing a feature to a design with ease is a great value.  We’re all accustomed to video games and computer imagery and now it’s been brought to the landscape industry.

AI Technology

As we all know, AI has jumped into our lives.  There are already options available for the landscape industry but the user must be accountable for knowing if the AI is creating designs that actually work.  With AI we have jumped one step forward from the designer to creating a base plan, with AI and 3-D software turning the plan into an image.  The outstanding drawback currently with AI is that the AI is only as good as the information it is fed.  Horticulture and design contain a lot of nuances that AI is still working towards understanding.  Without an experienced professional monitoring the outcome the results could be less than hoped for.   As Jill Odom writes in her article for the NALP (National Association of Landscape Professionals):

 “One of the main concerns in adopting AI is reduced quality and premature overdependence.  While using AI could seem like a way to cut costs, brand voice and marketing efficacy can suffer without quality control and human expert input.”  

AI, as it is pointed out, is only as good as the person using it. (Source:  NALP Website “The Edge:  Exploring Uses for AI-Generated Content in the Landscape Industry.  May 5, 2023)We are watching this exciting technology closely and looking forward to the advances it brings across the green industry!

Fostering Vocational Growth in the Green Industry

In many areas around the world, the landscape industry is growing faster than the workforce.  From reforestation professionals to architects redesigning city green spaces to the men and women who maintain our sporting fields, to landscape professionals transforming back yards into living spaces, the green industry is booming.  These people are all driven by a passion for some aspect of the job—be it horticulture, design, or even working with your hands.  It is truly an industry that beautifies and makes the world a better place.  Inspiring more students to consider the green industry as a lifelong vocation is something that needs to be looked it.  Across the US there is a shift towards encouraging people to enter the trades as a career.  Many people think landscaping is about lawnmowers and planting flowers, but skilled workers are needed.  We need men and women who want to work with their hands AND use their brains to create and renovate.  Skill and knowledge are required for all aspects of the industry.  The great thing is you can be trained on the job for many positions and work your way up through the ranks.  There are also positions that require higher education and degrees, but our love of the industry brings us together — mechanics, managers, purchasers, billing professionals and HR personnel are all needed as well as horticultural technicians, skilled laborers and people just starting out and wanting to learn.

Our Approach

At American Landscape the needs of our clients are forefront to how we approach the current global trends.  We are educating ourselves and our clients on ways to bring these trends into practice in our community.  The younger people entering the industry are keeping us technologically savvy and bring new ideas and products to the table and our seasoned employees bring years of experience and learning.  If you added up years of experience, just in our sales office alone, we have over 300 combined years of experience and education in the green industry—all with different strengths and specialties.  Our entire team utilizes the collective and unique experiences of the whole to solve tough problems and continuously move forward in an effort to adapt to a changing world.

If you are looking for help in navigating these global trends and how they affect your plans for landscaping your property, reach out to us today.

Fall Landscaping Checklist

Fall isn’t just about pumpkin lattes and cozy sweaters; it’s the pivotal time to prep your landscape for the colder months ahead and set the stage for a lush spring comeback. From tending to fallen leaves to planting springtime bulbs, the change in season offers a delightful array of landscaping tasks that not only enhance the beauty of our outdoor spaces but also promise a bountiful resurgence come spring. We’re highlighting the essential fall landscaping chores that everyone should have on their checklist.

Flowers

  • Dividing Perennials
    Divide & transplant perennials (while ground temperatures are still warm). Cut the tops and stems down to a few inches above the crown at the base of each plant. Once you’re done, make sure you rake the beds and dispose of dead plant material so your garden still looks fresh during the winter months.

Note: leaving a few inches of plant material and mulching above the crown is better for the plants. If any critters decide to nibble over the winter, they’ll eat the few inches above the crown instead of eating the crown and killing the plant.

  • Plant fall bulbs (before the ground freezes). When you plant your bulbs, unless the label says differently, plant the bigger bulbs 8” deep and the smaller bulbs at 5”. Place the bulb in the hole with the roots facing down. Once planted, cover the hole with soil but don’t pack it. Water it once.

RELATED: How to Plant Fall Bulbs

  • Clear leaves from flower beds
  • Treat perennial weeds with herbicide. Spray perennial weeds (bindweed, creeping Jenny, clover, etc.) before the first freeze to allow the weeds to take in the herbicide and prevent a weedy garden in spring.

Lawn

  • Aerate your lawn – fall is the best time
  • Fertilize your lawn. Apply now to ensure it looks its best come warmer weather.
  • Clear leaves from lawn. Mulching the leaves helps return nutrients to the soil. If that’s not an option for you, raking the leaves and keeping your lawn clear of debris can prevent your lawn from being smothered and stunting new grass growth.

RELATED: Comprehensive Lawn Care

Trees/Shrubs

  • Protect Trees and Shrubs
    Continue watering trees and shrubs until first frost
  • Protect your trees & shrubs. Wrap trees up to the lower branches using hardware cloth or tree wrap to prevent damage from deer rubbing. Cage small trees and shrubs in hardware cloth to prevent rabbit/rodent damage. Be sure to bury the cloth 2-3” beneath the surface.
  • Do NOT prune evergreens until spring
  • Remove leaves from under diseased plants and trees. If your tree/shrub had a disease issue, such as apple scab, powdery mildew, tar spot, etc., disposing of the diseased leaves will help prevent a recurrence next year.

Note: Do not compost diseased leaves.

  • Prevention is best, so consider getting on a spray program
  • Fertilize your trees and shrubs. Fertilizing in fall encourages root growth by restoring nutrients to the soil and allows for lush, healthy growth and flowering the following season.

If the list above feels daunting, feel free to reach out and schedule fall clean up services from the pros at American Landscape.

 

Drought-Tolerant Plants: Conserving Water and Beautifying Landscapes

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.

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

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

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.