Fall Landscaping Checklist

/in /by

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.

Dowload Fall 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.

Schedule Fall Clean Up Services

 

Why Fall is the Ideal Season for Planting

/in /by

Fall is an ideal time for planting in Southeast Wisconsin, offering unique advantages that can help your garden thrive. As temperatures cool, the soil remains warm, providing perfect conditions for root development. The cooler nights and increased rainfall during this season create a more favorable environment, reducing the need for frequent watering and making it less stressful on plants. Unlike spring, where rapid temperature fluctuations can cause stress, the steady transition into winter allows new plants to establish themselves with less risk.

Tips for Successful Fall Planting

Choose the Right Plants:

Drought tolerant plant: SedumOpt for perennials, shrubs, and trees that are hardy in Wisconsin’s climate. Fall is also great for planting bulbs like tulips and daffodils, which will bloom beautifully in the spring.

Additionally, consider native plants, as they are well-adapted to local conditions and require less maintenance.

Water Wisely:

Despite the increased rainfall, it’s important to water new plants regularly until the ground freezes to ensure strong root development. Deep watering encourages roots to grow downward, which enhances the plant’s ability to access moisture during dry spells.

Mulch:

Apply a layer of mulch around your plants to retain moisture and protect roots from temperature extremes. Mulching also helps suppress weeds, reducing competition for nutrients and allowing your plants to thrive.

Plant Early:

Aim to plant at least 6-8 weeks before the first hard frost. This gives plants enough time to establish themselves. Early planting also allows you to take advantage of the warm soil temperatures, which are crucial for root growth before winter sets in.

PRO TIP! The first hard frost in Southeast Wisconsin typically occurs between late October and early November. However, this can vary depending on the specific location and the year. In general, it’s a good idea to aim to finish your fall planting by mid-October to ensure your plants have enough time to establish themselves before the frost hits.

In fall, plants are more dormant, allowing them to put energy into root growth. This not only gives your garden a head start for the next growing season but also requires less maintenance, as weeds are less active and pests are fewer. Embrace the season and prepare your garden for a beautiful spring!

Our team is ready to help you tackle your fall planting. Get in touch today to schedule your service!

Contact Us

 

3 Simple Swaps for More Sustainable Gardening at Home

/in /by

In our gardens lie an opportunity to nurture not just plants, but also the planet. Sustainable gardening offers a pathway to minimizing our environmental footprint. Read on to learn about simple things you can do, like saving water and using natural materials, to make your garden not only beautiful but also good for the planet.

Small Steps to Sustainable Gardening

When you think of sustainable gardening, you might envision a lush, green garden requiring much work and maintenance. This doesn’t have to be the case, especially for homeowners. There are many simple ways to create a beautiful, sustainable garden that doesn’t require much time, money, or labor.

Below are a few simple swaps you can make to create a sustainable garden, with some excellent ideas of how to do it.

1. Water Conservation

Water conservation is a hot topic today. With many communities experiencing droughts and water restrictions, it is important to know where to save water and how to use it properly in your garden.

Mulch Your Beds

Mulching beds and plants can help reduce evaporation, leading to less frequent watering. It can also help soil retain moisture, leading to healthier plants and a more resilient garden.

Drought tolerant plant: Sedum

Choose Plants Adapted For a Dryer Environment

When making plant choices for your garden, consider using plants that have good drought tolerance.  Read this list of drought-tolerant plants for some ideas.

Reducing Lawn Size

Large lawns and extensive hardscapes require significant resources and contribute to habitat loss. Reducing the size of lawns and incorporating sustainable hardscapes conserves resources and supports local ecosystems.

To get started, we recommend you:

  • Evaluate your lawn and hardscape areas to identify spaces suitable for conversion to alternative landscapes and permeable surfaces.
  • Prepare the soil, select appropriate plants for alternative landscapes, and choose eco-friendly hardscape materials.
  • Establish new landscapes and hardscapes with proper care and maintenance, ensuring that they are resilient and sustainable over time.

Rainwater Harvesting

Harvesting rainwater is a simple and sustainable way to collect and store rainwater for later use in your garden. Instead of letting rainwater runoff into storm drains, which can contribute to erosion and pollution, rainwater harvesting allows you to capture this valuable resource and put it to good use.

Implementing rainwater harvesting in your garden involves the following steps:

  • Assess Your Roof: Determine the surface area of your roof that can be used to collect rainwater. Based on rainfall patterns and roof size, calculate the amount of water you can harvest.
  • Install Gutters and Downspouts: Install gutters along the edge of your roof to collect rainwater and direct it towards downspouts. Ensure they are securely attached and direct water towards a suitable collection point.
  • Choose Collection Methods: Decide on the rainwater collection system that best suits your needs. Options include rain barrels, cisterns, or underground tanks. Consider available space, budget, and desired water storage capacity.
  • Install Collection Containers: Position your chosen rainwater collection containers beneath downspouts to capture rainwater as it flows from the roof. Ensure containers are stable and properly sealed to prevent contamination and mosquito breeding.
  • Filter and Purify: Install filters or screens to remove debris and sediment from collected rainwater.
  • Use and Maintain: Harvested rainwater can water your garden, wash outdoor surfaces, or be used for other non-potable purposes. Regularly inspect and maintain your rainwater harvesting system to ensure proper functioning and prevent potential issues.

Harvesting rainwater offers numerous benefits for both your garden and the environment. By capturing rainwater and using it to irrigate your plants, you can reduce reliance on municipal water sources, conserve water resources, and lower your utility bills.

2. Use of Natural Products

Natural products can be used in the garden to create a habitat for beneficial insects, optimal soil conditions, and a natural look. Not sure where to start? Try these tips:

Composting

Composting involves decomposing organic matter into nutrient-rich compost, benefiting soil health and waste reduction. Getting started with composting is as simple as:

  • Layering organic materials in a compost bin or pile.
  • Mixing of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials.
  • Turning the compost regularly to aerate it and speed up decomposition.

With time, you’ll have nutrient-rich compost to enrich your garden soil. Composting offers several benefits, including improved soil structure, increased water retention, and reduced need for chemical fertilizers. Additionally, it diverts organic waste from landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Natural Pest Control

How to Create a Monarch Waystation

Natural pest control methods utilize beneficial insects and homemade sprays to manage garden pests without chemicals. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Natural pest control reduces harm to beneficial insects and wildlife while effectively managing pest populations. It also minimizes chemical exposure for gardeners and promotes safer, healthier plants.

3. Plant Selection and Garden Design

One simple swap that can greatly impact sustainability is making the most of what you already have. Considering that, you’ll want to consider plant selection and garden design.

Native Planting

Wild Bergamot

Native plants naturally occur and have adapted to local conditions, requiring less maintenance than non-native species. To create a low-maintenance garden, choose native plants that thrive in your region and are well-suited to local weather and soil conditions.

Native plants conserve water, reduce chemical inputs, and provide habitat for local wildlife. They enhance biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, contributing to overall ecosystem health.

Permeable Pavers

Permeable Pavers allow water to pass through in-between the pavers, reducing runoff and letting the water soak back into your soil.  Anytime runoff (which can wash erosion and chemicals into lakes, rivers, and streams) is prevented, it contributes to a healthier environment.  Many municipalities, especially in lakeshore communities, are requiring permeable pavers and limited hardscapes to help keep our lakes clean.

Bioswales & Rain Gardens

Rain Garden Installation

Designing a simple bioswale or rain garden to catch runoff or enhance an area with a drainage issue is also a benefit to the environment. Although they do require maintenance, like any landscape bed, the benefits of a rain garden can outweigh the work.

These systems allow water to accumulate in areas, filter down through the roots of native plants, and back into your yard. They can be quite attractive. In addition to conserving water, they are great places for beneficial birds and insects to visit.

Embracing Sustainable Gardening with American Landscape

As we strive to create more sustainable gardens, remember that every small change can make a big difference. By incorporating practices like drip irrigation, composting, and native plant selection, we not only enhance the beauty of our outdoor spaces but also contribute to the health of our environment.

Let’s continue this journey towards sustainability. American Landscape stands ready to assist those seeking expert guidance and support. Whether it’s designing eco-friendly landscapes or providing sustainable gardening solutions, our team at American Landscape is here to help you cultivate greener, more sustainable gardens.

Contact us today to get started!

5 Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas for Selling Your Home

/in /by

First impressions matter, especially when it comes to selling a home. Curb appeal – the look and feel of a property from the street – can make or break a potential buyer’s interest.

A well-landscaped front yard that’s inviting and looks cared for signals to buyers that the home has been maintained and loved. In fact, research shows that the right landscaping can increase a home’s overall resale value by an average of 15-20%. On the other hand, a neglected exterior can turn off buyers before they even step inside the house.

That’s why curb appeal landscaping is necessary when getting a home ready to sell. Whether you choose to work with a professional landscaper or tackle the project yourself, it’s important to consider the features and design principles that will make the biggest impact on buyers.

Curb Appeal Landscaping Design Principles

To ensure your landscaping looks its best, consider some basic design principles. These include:

  • Balance and Symmetry: Creating an overall sense of balance and symmetry helps to guide the eye throughout the property. It also provides a sense of order and harmony. This creates a relaxing environment for buyers to envision themselves in.
  • Focal Points: Adding focal points throughout the property helps to direct the eye and draw attention to specific areas of interest. This can include a garden bed, a statue, a water feature, or even a fire pit.
  • Functionality: Every element in the landscape should serve a purpose. Is there seating for relaxation? Is there a path for easy access?
  • Seasonal Interest: Incorporate plants and elements that provide year-round appeal. Evergreens, bulbs for spring blooms, and interesting winter structures add variety.
  • Maintenance Level: Consider how much time and effort you will put into upkeep. Choose plants and features that match your comfort level.

These design principles help create a beautiful landscape that will appeal to buyers. While most of these principles can be applied independently, if you need help executing them, it’s best to consult a professional landscaping company.

123
Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas
classic revival
Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas

Practical Tips for Designing a Cohesive Landscape

If you go the DIY route, keep the following design tips in mind:

  • Consider the Home’s Architecture: The landscape should complement the style of the house.
  • Use Repeating Elements: Incorporate similar plants, colors, or materials to create unity.
  • Create Different Zones: Designate areas for specific functions like seating, gardening, or play.
  • Think About Scale and Proportion: Ensure plants and features don’t overpower the house.
  • Consider the View from the Street: What will potential buyers see first?

Applying Design Principles

With the tips above, you can create a beautiful landscape that will complement your home and help it stand out from the rest of the homes on the market. Your approach will largely depend on the style of your home and the level of care you are willing to put into upkeep.

For example, a traditional-style home might benefit from a symmetrical front yard design. Repeating elements like matching pavers and hydrangea bushes create a sense of balance and unity between the hardscape and landscape. This approach aligns with the classic, timeless aesthetic of traditional architecture.

On the other hand, a modern home could showcase an asymmetrical front yard layout. A bold focal point, such as a sleek, contemporary water feature or striking sculpture, breaks the symmetry and adds visual interest. This design approach complements the minimalist, forward-thinking style often associated with modern homes.

Make a Lasting Impression with These 5 Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas

You must pay attention to your home’s curb appeal. The competition in the real estate market is fierce. These five landscaping ideas will give your property the visual appeal it needs to stand out and attract potential buyers:

Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas

1. Enhance Your Curb Appeal with Colorful Flower Beds

Choose vibrant flowers to add a pop of color and visual interest. Opt for perennials for year-round color or annuals for seasonal variety. Think about height and texture by mixing tall plants with low-growing ones and incorporating plants with different leaf textures. Of course, don’t forget to prune your plants regularly to keep them looking their best.

Decide whether you want a more structured, traditional flower bed or a more relaxed, cottage-garden style. Plant flowers on either side of the entrance to create a welcoming focal point.

Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas

2. Add Eye-Catching Hardscape Elements to Your Home’s Exterior

Consider brick, stone, or concrete pavers for a polished pathway. A winding or curved path can add interest. Opt for materials that complement your home’s exterior for a cohesive look.

A fire pit or outdoor kitchen can make the space more functional. For a unique feature, incorporate seating into the wall design. While more involved, a small fountain or pond can add much visual interest and tranquility.

3. Include Serene Elemental Pieces in Your Landscape Design

Incorporate unique outdoor features to make your landscape design stand out. Consider a small, contemporary fountain or a unique water garden with aquatic plants and stones for a serene feel.

Opt for a sleek, modern fire pit or a whimsical outdoor fireplace with a rustic charm to provide a focal point. Add architectural interest with a distinctive trellis, archway, or pergola. These elements will create a more engaging and memorable outdoor space.

Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas

4. Illuminate Your Curb Appeal with Outdoor Lighting

Highlight key features like trees, statues, or unique plants with spotlights to extend their visual interest into the evening. Line your walkway or driveway with lights for safe navigation after dark. Install lights that cast a warm, soft glow to make your home inviting. Consider solar lights for an eco-friendly option.

5. Maximize Limited Space with Vertical Gardens

Train climbing plants like roses, ivy, or morning glories up trellises for a quick way to add height and color. Mount planters on walls or fences to save floor space.

Choose plants that trail over the edge for a soft look. Consider a wall-mounted garden with individual pockets for easy care and a modern aesthetic.

Make the Most of Your Curb Appeal With American Landscape

Nailing your curb appeal landscaping is an important step in selling your home. If you’re looking for inspiration, you can cruise around your neighborhood to see what other home sellers are doing to make their homes stand out.

Or, if you’re ready to get right to work, you can count on the team at American Landscape to help you transform your curb appeal. Our team of landscape designers and installation specialists can help you create the perfect outdoor space to maximize your home’s curb appeal and value.

 

Want to see how American Landscape can help you improve your curb appeal? Contact us today!

APRIL Landscaping Checklist

/in /by

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. 

Download Checklist

Spring Into Action: Prepare for the Growing Season

/in /by

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!

Contact Us

Want to stay in the loop?
Sign up for our newsletter.

"*" indicates required fields

Name*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

American Landscape - 50 Years of Outstanding Landscaping Service to the Greater Milwaukee Area

(262)252-4260
info@amerlandscape.com

N60 W16073 Kohler Ln,
Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

About   Services   Portfolio   Testimonials   Careers   Blog   Contact

We use cookies. Privacy Policy.