Landscaping – American Landscape

Replacing Overgrown Shrubs: 5 Steps to Update Your Yard

April 16, 2026/in Landscape Design, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

It usually starts gradually.

A shrub sits neatly below the window, then creeps higher each year. Branches push outward, softening the edges of the bed. Over time, what once felt balanced begins to feel crowded and overgrown.

Drive through a few neighborhoods in Brookfield, Elm Grove or Pewaukee, and you’ll see it everywhere. Foundation plantings that were installed years ago continue to grow well beyond their intended size.

Windows become partially covered. Architectural details fade behind dense growth. Entryways feel tighter, and the front of the home starts to look more crowded than welcoming.

Nothing is necessarily wrong. This is simply how plants grow.

Replacing overgrown shrubs is often less about fixing a problem and more about restoring balance.

What Should You Do When Foundation Shrubs Get Too Big?

When shrubs outgrow their space, trimming can help in the short term, but it doesn’t change how those plants will continue to grow over time.

Instead, it often makes more sense to step back and rethink the layout of the landscape bed as a whole. This may mean removing oversized plants, adjusting spacing, and choosing varieties that fit the scale of the home at maturity, not just when they’re first planted.

The goal is to create a foundation planting that improves curb appeal, grows into its space, remains proportionate to the home, and remains manageable over time.

5 Steps to Restore Balance to Overgrown Shrubs

Restoring balance starts with stepping back and looking at the layout as a whole. From there, it becomes easier to rework the planting so everything fits the home a little more naturally.

1. Clear the Slate First

Start by removing shrubs that have outgrown their space or no longer fit the layout. It opens everything up and makes it easier to see what you’re working with.

From there, remove any remaining roots, add soil where needed to level the bed, and redefine the edges. With everything pulled back, it becomes much easier to rethink spacing, scale, and how the planting should come together moving forward.

2. Choose Shorter Shrubs for Better Window Views

Not every shrub belongs in every location. What works in a larger bed or open area can quickly feel out of place when planted close to the house.

In most cases, this means keeping shrubs below the window line and choosing varieties that won’t outgrow the space. Focus on how each shrub will spread and fill in over time, not how it looks when it’s first installed.

3. Use Height Strategically

Once the main shrubs are in place, height can be used more intentionally to add structure without overwhelming the home.

A few slightly taller shrubs can be positioned at corners or between windows to create definition. This keeps the planting from feeling flat while avoiding a continuous wall of greenery across the front of the house.

Height can also come from other plantings. Ornamental grasses, perennials, or small accent trees can add variation and draw the eye without taking over the space.

When height is used selectively, it adds interest without overwhelming the home’s architecture.

4. Follow a Simple Layering Formula

A layered planting helps everything feel more organized and easier to maintain over time.

Start with lower shrubs near the front edge of the bed to define the border. Behind that, use mid-sized shrubs to create a consistent base. Then add a few taller accents to bring in height and structure without overwhelming the space.

For Wisconsin landscapes, choosing plants well-suited to the climate makes a noticeable difference. Boxwood and spirea are commonly used for structure, while hydrangea can add seasonal interest without taking over the space. Native options like ninebark or serviceberry also work well, offering durability and a more natural look.

Keeping the layout simple and repeating plant groupings helps the design feel cohesive instead of overly busy.

5. Plan for the Long Term

The decisions made during planting will shape how the space looks and functions for years to come.

Choose shrubs based on their mature size, not how they look when they’re first installed. A shrub that starts at two feet tall may reach six feet or more, which can quickly crowd windows, walkways, or neighboring plants if it’s placed too close.

Spacing matters just as much. Leaving enough room between shrubs allows them to fill in naturally without constant pruning to keep them separated or in bounds.

It’s also important to think about upkeep. Some shrubs hold their shape with minimal trimming, while others need to be cut back regularly to stay in scale with the home.

Planning ahead reduces the need for ongoing adjustments and helps keep the planting consistent as it grows.

Address Overgrown Shrubs with American Landscape

Updating overgrown shrubs is about more than removing what’s there. It’s an opportunity to rethink how your foundation planting fits your home today and how it will grow over time.

Working with an experienced team helps ensure the layout, plant selection, and spacing all support a balanced, long-term result.

American Landscape provides thoughtful design, proper installation, professional maintenance, and guidance based on plant choices that align with Wisconsin’s climate and native landscape.

Contact American Landscape today to schedule a consultation.

Reviving Your Landscape in Spring: How to Refresh Landscape Beds

March 16, 2026/in Company News, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

It’s early spring and the snow is melting here in Southeastern Wisconsin, which has a way of revealing everything winter covered up. As the snow melts and the ground begins to thaw, landscapes often look very different from how they did in the fall. Edges soften, mulch shifts, and perennials may be flattened by snow.

It can feel overwhelming to see what waits for you outside! Maybe your summer home in Lake Country didn’t get a fall clean-up due to early snow and you just don’t have time to get there. Or, the Wauwatosa bungalow you bought last fall surrounded by gardens needs an experienced touch. Maybe your new job has your travelling constantly and your neighbors in Elm Grove won’t like you much if your landscape falls into disrepair.

This time of year often highlights areas of the landscape that could benefit from attention. Sometimes that means refreshing existing beds; other times it becomes an opportunity to plan larger landscape improvements.

Either way, spring is the ideal time to evaluate your outdoor spaces. Restoring structure, cleaning up winter damage, and making thoughtful adjustments now helps set the stage for healthy growth and a beautiful landscape throughout the season.

Early Spring Landscape Tasks Before the Ground Fully Thaws

Some of the most important landscape maintenance happens before plants even begin actively growing. Taking care of these early tasks can set your landscape up for a much smoother season.

Prune Deciduous Shrubs

Many shrubs benefit from pruning before they leaf out. Dormant or corrective pruning helps maintain strong plant structure and can reduce the amount of trimming needed later in the summer.

However, spring-blooming shrubs such as forsythia and lilacs should be pruned after they finish blooming so you don’t remove the flower buds.

Cut Back Perennials

By early spring, many perennials are showing the effects of winter weather. Snow can flatten stems, and birds often finish feeding on remaining seed heads.

If plants were not cut back in the fall, early spring is an ideal time to remove old growth so new shoots can emerge cleanly.

Spring PREPARING YOUR LANDSCAPE FOR A FLOURISHING SEASON

Rake or Clear Landscape Beds

Whether you rake beds clean or leave some natural debris depends on your goals.

Homeowners who prefer a tidy appearance may want to remove leaves and leftover plant material. Others may choose to leave some debris in place to support pollinators and beneficial insects, which often use leaf litter for shelter and nesting.

As organic material breaks down, it can also contribute nutrients and microbial life that support soil health.

Apply a Balanced Fertilizer

Applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, around plantings can help give plants a strong start as spring rains begin to warm the soil. These nutrients help support early growth and encourage healthy development throughout the season.

Assess Winter Damage

Winter conditions and wildlife can leave their mark on the landscape. Rabbits may chew shrubs, and voles may tunnel beneath snow cover.

Early spring is a good time to walk the property and assess what may need attention so you can plan solutions before growth begins in earnest.

Refreshing Landscape Beds After the Ground Thaws

Once the soil begins warming and plants start to emerge, it becomes easier to evaluate the condition of your landscape beds and make improvements. A step-by-step approach helps restore structure while supporting plant health.

Step 1: Clear and Reset the Foundation

Before reshaping or replanting anything, start with a clean surface as part of a thorough spring landscape clean-up. Winter leaves behind more than debris. Snow weight, shifting mulch, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles can flatten perennials and compact soil. Clearing everything back allows you to see the bed’s true condition.

This step is not about redesigning yet. It is about removing distractions so you can assess what should stay and what needs adjustment.

This typically includes:

Clearing leaves and sticks
Cutting back remaining perennial growth
Pulling early weeds
Removing plants that didn’t survive the winter

With the bed cleaned up, it becomes easier to assess spacing, layout, and areas that may need improvement.

Step 2: Redefine Landscape Bed Edges

BeforeAfter

Re-establishing the shape of the bed often results in the most noticeable improvement in the shortest amount of time, especially when you sharpen landscape bed edging and bed layout so the border between lawn and planting areas is clear.

Clean lines immediately make the space feel maintained and intentional.

Focus on:

Cutting clean, consistent edges along the perimeter
Removing turf that has grown into the bed
Widening narrow sections if plants feel crowded
Smoothing uneven curves for a balanced appearance

Step 3: Evaluate What Survived the Winter

As plants begin budding and perennials emerge, it becomes easier to determine what made it through the winter.

Keep in mind that not all plants emerge at the same time. However, you can usually identify dead branches or plants that failed to return.

At this stage:

Prune out dead branches from otherwise healthy plants
Note perennials that did not return
Identify areas where plants may need to be replaced or rearranged

This evaluation helps guide planting decisions later in the season.

Step 4: Reinvigorate Your Soil & Adjust Plantings

If you have un-mulched areas, perennial or other garden beds, spring is a great time to add compost or worm castings to your soil to reinvigorate your beds. Cultivating amendments into the soil around existing plantings, even before you mulch, will increase the organic matter in your soil which will give you healthier plants.

Once the soil is addressed, step back and look at the overall layout. Older landscape beds often feel crowded, not because they lack space, but because too many plants compete for attention. Over time, varieties get added without a clear plan, and the original balance of the bed starts to fade.

Spring is a good opportunity to simplify and restore structure before new growth fills everything in.

At this stage:

Remove overcrowded or underperforming plants
Group similar varieties together for a more cohesive look
Keep taller plants positioned toward the back or center, depending on the layout
Introduce one or two strong structural plants to anchor the space

A simplified plant palette almost always makes landscape beds feel more intentional. Instead of adding more, focus on strengthening what works and creating a clearer visual hierarchy.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Mulch

Mulching is often the final step in refreshing landscape beds. Applying fresh mulch improves appearance while also helping regulate soil temperature, retain moisture, and suppress weeds.

For best results:

Apply approximately 2–3 inches of mulch
Keep mulch slightly away from plant crowns and stems
Maintain consistent coverage throughout the bed

Mulching earlier in the season is often easier because plants are still small and easier to work around.

Additional Spring Landscape Tasks to Consider

While refreshing landscape beds is often the primary focus, several other tasks can help ensure your entire landscape performs well throughout the year.

Remove Winter Protection

As temperatures warm, remove wraps, burlap, or other winter protection from plants. Once March arrives, the risk of harsh winter winds is usually reduced, and lingering coverings can trap heat and moisture during warm spring days.

Divide Perennials

Spring is a good time to divide perennials that bloom later in the summer. Plants such as daylilies, bee balm, and hosta are easy to identify and move earlier in the season.

Spring-blooming perennials such as peonies and iris should be divided after they finish flowering.

Check Irrigation and Landscape Lighting

Winter snow removal, wildlife activity, or freezing temperatures can damage irrigation lines or landscape lighting. Early spring inspections make repairs easier before plants fill in.

Think About Plant Health

Was there something in the yard that was attacked by insects or disease? Now is the time to think about how to mitigate future damage or if the plant should be removed from your landscape.

Look at the Landscape as a Whole

Stand in the area where you most often view your yard and evaluate the overall layout.

Are there plants overcrowding each other?
Are there open spaces?
Is there something that just doesn’t belong anymore?

Even if garden centers have not yet fully stocked plants, early spring is a great time to begin planning adjustments.

Look up. As trees leaf out look for dead, broken, or branches that may interfere with power lines or structures as they put on their growth this year. Trees can often grow 6”-8” a year or more if there is rainfall at the right time. Correcting a problem early on can prevent a much bigger problem down the line.

Signs Your Landscape Beds Need a Spring Refresh

Many homeowners wonder if their planting beds need a full redesign or just seasonal maintenance. In most cases, a refresh is enough.

Common signs your landscape beds need attention include:

Bed edges blending into the lawn
Mulch that has thinned or shifted after winter
Overcrowded plants competing for space
Dead branches or plants that didn’t survive winter
Beds that look uneven or unstructured

Addressing these issues early in the season helps restore the visual structure of the landscape and supports healthier plant growth.

Refresh Your Landscape with American Landscape

Refreshing your landscape beds each spring helps restore structure, improve plant health, and maintain the overall appearance of your property.

For homeowners across Southeastern Wisconsin, including Menomonee Falls, Brookfield, Elm Grove, and Lake Country, American Landscape provides professional spring cleanups, landscape bed renovations, and planting updates designed for long-term results.

Our experienced team can evaluate your existing landscape, correct structural issues, tackle spring cleanup chores and create a landscape that looks clean, balanced, and ready for the growing season.

Contact American Landscape today to schedule your spring landscape refresh.

Snow and Your Landscape

December 19, 2025/in Landscaping/by American Landscape

Unless you participate in winter sports, you probably dread winter snow—except at Christmas. Your landscape plants, however, look forward to it each year.

Snow plays a vital role in our ecosystem here in Wisconsin. Plants and animals depend on it to survive the winter months and emerge strong and healthy in spring.

First, snow is an excellent insulator. Our instinct as humans is to protect new plants from snow, fearing damage because of the cold. In reality, nothing could be better for them. A thick layer of snow shields plants from extreme cold and the wild temperature fluctuations we’ve been experiencing. Soil beneath snow cover does not freeze and thaw as quickly, which helps prevent tender roots from heaving out of the ground. Snow also acts like a blanket, trapping warm air and protecting hibernating amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.

The moisture provided by snow is also beneficial, keeping plants and soil hydrated. Moist soil helps prevent erosion, and when spring arrives, plants rely on ample water to fuel their rapid growth spurt. As snow melts slowly into the ground, it provides a steady source of moisture and gives plants a healthy start to the season. Additional runoff from melting snow benefits animals emerging from hibernation by creating ephemeral streams and pools needed for their life cycles. This moisture also contributes to the composting process, helping break down leaves and other organic matter into nutrients for your soil.

The Downsides of Snow and Your Landscape

Heavy snow can sometimes cause damage to evergreens, especially when it is very wet. We experienced this a few years ago, when conditions were just right to cause significant damage to arborvitae and snap branches on pines and spruce. Fortunately, this was an unusual event. Most plants are flexible and can withstand snowfall, but certain situations in your yard may require human intervention. If a branch appears excessively weighed down, you can gently remove snow with a broom to reduce the load. Sometimes Mother Nature wins, and other times branches will slowly spring back into place.

Salt can also be harmful to plants, particularly along the edges of driveways and landscape beds. Excessive salt can burn turf, accumulate and toxify the soil, or weaken plants. In residential yards, snowmelt and spring rains typically flush salt from the soil, allowing lawns to recover. On commercial properties, where large amounts of salt are applied for safety, long-term damage may occur and require additional effort to correct.

One final disadvantage of snow cover is that it creates a cozy environment for small mammals such as voles and rabbits to burrow beneath and stay warm. As we know, these animals—along with deer—can cause significant damage to landscapes over the winter. While vole damage in lawns is usually easy to repair, deer searching for food and burrowing rodents can wreak havoc in a short period of time. For larger pests like deer and rabbits, consider winterizing plants they are drawn to. For smaller pests such as mice or voles, contacting a pest control specialist is often the best solution.

Fall and Winter Care Tips For New Landscapes

September 16, 2025/in Landscaping/by Mary Monday

A new landscape is an exciting investment—but the first winter is often the biggest test. While we carefully select plants we believe will thrive, young trees, shrubs, and perennials still need a little extra care to make it through the colder months successfully. With some proactive steps, you can protect your investment and set the stage for a strong, healthy spring.

Protecting Young Deciduous Trees

Deer may not always eat young deciduous trees, but they do love rubbing antlers on tender bark in the fall. Damage often begins as early as September. Protect your trees by:

Paper Tree Wrap: Wrap trunks from the ground to the lower branches, then remove in March to avoid trapped moisture or pests.
Plastic Tree Wrap: Choose ventilated options and remove in spring. Avoid DIY black drain tile, which traps heat and can cause frost cracks.
Caging: Build a hardware cloth fence several feet from the trunk and bury the base to block deer and rodents. This also works for shrubs.

Safeguarding Arborvitae

Most arborvitae are irresistible to deer. To protect them:

Deer Sprays: Apply multiple times in fall before freezing temps set in.
Burlap: Wrap trees directly or create a burlap fence with stakes for better airflow and easier spring removal.

Caring for Perennials

You may have heard the old adage, “Sleep, creep and leap,” in regards to perennials. The first year they sleep – all the activity is going on underground where they are developing new root systems. Help them establish by:

Watering during warm, dry fall stretches (only if soil is dry).
Adding 2–3 inches of mulch to stabilize soil temperature.
Deciding whether to cut back in fall or leave stems for winter interest and wildlife habitat.

Protecting Shrubs

Some shrubs are more vulnerable to animal damage. Tips include:

Roses: Modern landscape varieties don’t need covering—just mulch and moisture until freeze.
Rabbit-prone shrubs (burning bush, barberry, serviceberry, etc.): Use sprays or cages for protection.
Junipers: Watch for vole damage; prune out affected branches in spring.
Rhododendrons & Azaleas: Use burlap fencing or anti-desiccant sprays to prevent winter burn.

Winter can be tough on new landscapes, but a little preparation goes a long way. By protecting young trees, safeguarding evergreens, watering and mulching perennials, and guarding vulnerable shrubs, you’ll give your landscape the best chance to thrive. Come spring, you’ll be rewarded with strong, healthy growth that continues to build the outdoor space you envisioned.

Our team can help work with you to ensure your new landscape has the best chance of survival over winter. Get in touch today for assistance.

6 Fire Pit Designs to Extend Your Outdoor Season

August 28, 2025/in News, Hardscapes, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

As much as we enjoy the family-friendly events of summer, like Lavender Fest here in Menomonee Falls, the hot, sticky weather can leave us dreaming of crisp evenings and cooler days ahead.

Soon enough, the humidity will give way to that first refreshing breeze of autumn. Picture yourself on the patio, enjoying the fading light as the air finally cools, and imagining how to make nights like this last longer.

That’s where a cozy fire pit comes in. With the soft crackle of flames and the warm glow casting light across the yard, it transforms a simple evening into something memorable.

Whether you prefer the ease of a portable setup or the beauty of a custom-built feature, the right fire pit makes your backyard the place everyone wants to gather, long after the summer heat has passed.

Why Add a Fire Pit to Your Outdoor Living Space?

Aesthetics aside, a fire pit has a way of drawing people in.

It naturally becomes the place where conversations linger, where friends gather a little closer, and where you can unwind after a long day. Beyond the atmosphere it creates, a well-planned fire pit adds function and value to your property.

A well-planned fire pit can anchor your backyard design, define a seating area, and make your outdoor space usable well into the cooler months.

When integrated thoughtfully into your overall landscape, it’s more than just an accessory — it’s an investment in both the beauty and the livability of your home.

Integrate Fire Pits into Your Hardscape Design-Build Plan

The best fire pit designs are those that feel like they belong, seamlessly integrated into your outdoor living space rather than added as an afterthought.

Planning your fire pit as part of a complete hardscape design-build project ensures it blends seamlessly with patios, seating walls, or even built-in fireplaces for a cohesive, upscale appearance.

Choosing materials like pavers, natural stone, and accent lighting ensures that your built-in fire pit not only complements your home’s style but also withstands Wisconsin’s changing seasons.

With a design-build approach, every detail from size and placement to finish and features is tailored to your lifestyle, so your fire feature feels like it has always been part of the plan.

6 Fire Pit Designs That Turn Up the Heat on Outdoor Living

There’s a wide range of fire pit designs that can enhance your outdoor living space. The best choice comes down to your style, space, and how you plan to use it.

Here are six options that combine warmth, function, and lasting appeal.

1. Built-In Stone Fire Pits

A built-in fire pit made from natural stone offers a timeless look that blends beautifully with any outdoor living space. This style is perfect for homeowners who want a permanent feature that integrates seamlessly with patios, seating walls, or other hardscape design-build elements.

Stone is both durable and weather-resistant, making it ideal for Wisconsin’s year-round conditions. With endless options for shape, size, and stone type, you can create a custom look that complements your home’s architecture while providing a reliable gathering place season after season.

2. Gas Fire Pits

For homeowners who want warmth without the upkeep, a gas built-in fire pit offers instant ambiance at the flip of a switch. This clean, modern option is perfect for low-maintenance outdoor living, eliminating the need to store wood or manage ashes.

Gas fire pits can be incorporated into columns, walls, or custom tables as part of a hardscape design-build project, giving you flexibility in both form and function. They’re also an excellent choice for consistent heat output and ease of use, making them a practical yet stylish addition to your backyard.

3. Fire Pit Tables

A fire pit table combines the warmth of a flame with the practicality of a surface for drinks or dining. This versatile option works exceptionally well in smaller patios where a larger built-in feature might feel overwhelming.

Available in both portable and built-in styles, fire pit tables can be tailored to match surrounding materials and finishes, ensuring they fit seamlessly with your space.

They add function without sacrificing style, making them a smart solution for outdoor areas that need to work hard in every season.

4. Sunken Fire Pits

A sunken fire pit creates an inviting, enclosed gathering area that feels cozy and protected. Lowering the seating area below ground level provides natural wind protection while adding a dramatic focal point to your backyard.

This style pairs beautifully with built-in seating walls or retaining features and works best as part of a larger landscape redesign. While it requires more planning and excavation than other styles, the end result is a unique, intimate space that draws people in and encourages lingering.

5. Fire Bowls & Portable Options

Fire bowls and other portable styles offer flexibility for those who want warmth and ambiance without committing to a permanent structure. They’re ideal for renters, smaller spaces, or anyone looking for a quick seasonal upgrade.

Many models are gas-powered or self-contained, making them easy to move, store, or reposition as your needs change.

With options ranging from sleek modern designs to rustic finishes, portable fire features can fit seamlessly into any outdoor setup.

6. Smokeless Inserts

Smokeless inserts are a smart upgrade for both new and existing fire pits, offering the warmth of a wood-burning fire without the heavy smoke.

Designed to improve airflow and burn efficiency, they create a more comfortable experience for guests and reduce lingering odors.

These inserts work with both wood and gas systems, making them a versatile choice for many backyard setups. As more homeowners look for clean-burning, low-maintenance solutions, smokeless designs are quickly becoming one of the most popular fire pit features.

Safety and Placement Tips

A fire pit can be a beautiful addition to your yard, but it needs to be installed and used with safety in mind. Keep these guidelines in mind:

Maintain distance from your home, fences, trees, and other flammable structures.
Consider wind direction when choosing the location to keep smoke away from seating areas.
Plan seating thoughtfully so guests can enjoy the warmth without sitting too close to the flames.
Follow local codes and permitting requirements before beginning any installation.
Hire a professional installer to ensure your fire pit is safe, durable, and built to last.

American Landscape Builds Fire Pits Tailored to Your Outdoor Living Needs

The right fire pit can extend your outdoor season, create a natural gathering spot, and enhance the overall appeal of your landscape. Our team designs and builds custom features that match your style, fit your space, and stand up to Wisconsin’s weather.

Are you considering adding a fire pit to your outdoor living space? Let American Landscape help you create a feature that brings warmth, style, and value to your home.

Contact our team today to get started.

Tips to Keep Your Landscape Thriving in August

August 4, 2025/in News, Landscaping/by Mary Monday

Flower Care

Fertilize container plantings.
Deadhead flowers to encourage additional blooming.
Monitor for disease and insect problems and treat as needed.
Remove any slug-eaten leaves from hostas.
Cut back daylilies to 3-4″ to stimulate regrowth.
Check rhizomes for iris borer caterpillars.
Do not fertilize shrubs or roses after mid-August to discourage tender new growth before winter.

Pro Advice: Clear leaf debris from gardens to prevent breeding grounds for insects and fungal diseases!

Lawn Maintenance

Mow as necessary. Raise mowing height to at least 3” as temperatures exceed 85˚F.
Water lawn adequately to keep it from going dormant. Deep (1” per week) and infrequent is preferred over frequent shallow waterings.
Scout for grubs. Peel back sod. More than 8 grubs per square foot can cause wilt or death of turf.
Establish or renovate turf by seed (late summer – early fall, depending on weather conditions). Prepare soil properly and get good seed to soil contact.

Trees & Shrub Care

Water newly planted trees and shrubs. Soak each plant well with the hose; sprinklers do not provide adequate water to encourage deep root growth.
Scout for fall webworm nest building near ends of branches.
Review health of trees and consider fall root feeding if necessary.

Tip! Don’t let weeds go to seed. “A year of seeding equals 7 years weeding.”

If keeping up with your landscaping chores feels overwhelming, reach out to learn more about our maintenance programs. (262) 252-4260