November 6th, 2011
Winter preparation of parking lots and drainage is crucial to the safety of your employees and visitors. It also helps maintain neat and clean premises. Negligence may result in personal injuries and damage to property.
Tips on Winter Preparation of Parking Lots and Drains:
- Clear debris such as fallen leaves, twigs, branches and rubble from your parking lot as well as from the nearby grassy patches or tree beds. You don’t want it to end up in the storm drains when you wash the area.
- Use a pressure washer to rid your parking lot of moss, oil stains, gum and stubborn dirt. Not doing this could lead to slippery and unsafe conditions. (Loading and unloading goods also becomes extremely dangerous.) The risk is greater during freezing rain or frigid temperatures.
- Clean your drains, gutters and downspouts. Blocked drains are often the result of not cleaning up in the fall. Also test to see that the drains are working the way they’re supposed to. Clogs force the water to find other channels of drainage. In addition, ponding or flooding can damage your expensive hardscapes.
- Maintaining a clean parking lot throughout the winter will reduce indoor maintenance as less dirt will find its way inside your buildings.
Fall cleanup and winter preparation of parking lots and drainage takes time and effort. An established landscape maintenance company has trained staff and the right tools to accomplish the task quickly and efficiently.
Appoint an experienced landscape maintenance company for professional winter preparation of your parking lots and drainage.
Tags: preparing parking lots for winter, preparing property for winter, winter preparation
Posted in Safety, property management | No Comments »
November 1st, 2011
Hardscapes serve multiple needs. In addition to enhancing your overall landscape design, they are also an effective form of erosion control. All you need is an experienced landscape contractor to expertly plan and install your hardscape.
- Hardscapes for erosion control
Soil erosion affects the grass, plants and trees, alters grading and drainage patterns and threatens the stability of structures in your landscape. Installing erosion control pavers for parking lots, pathways and pavements, flower bed edges and retaining walls will minimize soil erosion. Hire an established landscape contractor who understands your hardscape needs.
- Hardscapes for landscape design
Well-planned hardscapes bring style and character to your landscape. Patterned pavers for your entryway, pathways, sidewalks and parking lots add detail and interest brightening up the entire area. Aesthetically designed retaining walls for your boundary or pool will give it a finished look. Make sure your landscape contractor installs hardscapes that blend harmoniously into your landscape design.
- Hiring a landscape contractor for hardscape design and installation
Whether you’re installing a hardscape for soil erosion or landscape design, fulfilling your requirements depends on the capabilities of the landscape contractor you hire. Selecting the right material and design, and professional installations improve the look and reduce maintenance requirements while enhancing durability and lifespan.
Hire an experienced landscape contractor to design your hardscape for erosion control.
Tags: erosion control, hardscape design, hardscape for erosion control
Posted in Landscape Renovation, property management | No Comments »
October 26th, 2011
Commercial landscape lighting plays two important roles: function and design. The right kind of illumination will create visual interest, prevent injuries and keep commercial premises safe from prowlers.
- Outdoor lighting for safety and security – See and be seen
The primary purpose of any commercial lighting system is to illuminate pathways, parking lots and entryways. Well-lit exteriors will help prevent accidents and keep employees and visitors safe. Good lighting on the outside is also a deterrent to intruders and vandals, thereby protecting your commercial property from damage.
Spotlights and floodlights are ideal choices for entrances, exits and walkways. They reduce dark corners and shadows, minimize concealment and can help prevent crime. However, one must take care to avoid glaring or blinding lights. They can cause serious vision impairment.
- Landscape lighting for design – Wow them with beautiful night light
Professionally planned landscape lighting enhances the design and beauty of your outdoor space. Strategically placed downlights, spotlights and floodlights draw attention to special features like fountains, ponds, an exotic flower bed, statues, etc. Uplights on a tree or building architecture, or accent lighting for the rock garden; the possibilities are endless.
Landscape lighting for employee safety and improved landscape design requires experience. Landscape size and use (traffic areas, parking) determine the kind of illumination you need. Improper placement or the wrong type of lighting is a waste of money and a drain on energy.
Engage an experienced landscaper to plan and install your commercial landscape lighting that will improve your landscape design and ensure employee safety outdoors.
Tags: commercial landscape light, commercial property lighting, landscape lighting
Posted in Safety, property management | No Comments »
October 19th, 2011
Proper protection of above ground pipes and valves from frost and freezing can save you the cost of expensive repair and replacement. Damage and disruption from frozen pipes, valves and backflow preventers can be a property owner’s / manager’s nightmare. Here are some tips on how to protect your irrigation systems from frost and freezing temperatures.
Backflow Insulation
- Make sure your main shut off valve is frost-proof/frost-free, i.e. it is located in a warm room or sheltered area or is well insulated if it must be outdoors.
- Installing readymade and removable outdoor pipe and valve insulators (there are various types like heat tapes, foil-backed wrap, self-sticking foam, etc.) prevents freezing and reduces wear and tear.
- Remember to insulate backflow preventers as well. If you’re using plastic or duct tape leave an air passage and room for water to drain out. However, above ground backflow preventers should be permanently insulated to prevent early and late season freezing. Insulator bags with ties or padlocks are available easily. They cost far less than having to replace expensive backflow preventers.
- Turn off the water supply and drain all the pipes to prevent bursting when the temperatures dip below freezing. Having easily accessible drain valves will ensures this is done properly. Automatic systems also require the controllers/timers to be switched off.
Winterizing your irrigation system is serious business, and it does take time, effort and the right knowledge. Rely on an experienced landscape management company like Flora Terra that is experienced in frost prevention of above ground pipes and valves.
Tags: freeze protection, frost prevention of above ground pipe, frost protection, plumbing frost protection, protect pipes from frost, protect valves from frost
Posted in Winter Plant Care | No Comments »
October 11th, 2011
Practicing sustainability in the landscape has multiple advantages, the most important being that it reduces wastage and your maintenance costs. As more and more property managers, especially in drought-prone California are looking to improve water efficiency and savings, every little step makes a significant contribution.
How to create a sustainable commercial landscape?
- Study site conditions e.g. soil type, drainage pattern and weather conditions
- Select local, low water-use plants that are suitable for your growing conditions
- Plan tree and plant placement to provide shade in summer and allow the sun’s warmth in winter
- Install drip irrigation and watering systems that apply preserve water and avoid run offs
- Mulch to retain moisture and deter weed growth
- Replace some areas of turf with attractive drought-resistant flora and fauna
- Use organic weed and pest control instead of harsh chemicals
- Apply grass cuttings as mulch to reduce green waste
What are the benefits of sustainability in the landscape?
- Low water use
- Reduced green waste generation
- Minimized pesticide/fertilizer use
- Eliminate water run off and hardscape damage
- Lowers heating and cooling requirements and energy consumption resulting in less pollution
- Safer for the environment
- Long lasting
An experienced landscape design and management company can implement sustainability in the landscape easily and effectively. They will conduct a detailed assessment of your commercial property and plan an attractive landscape with low water use and maintenance requirements.
Tags: sustainability in the landscape, sustainable commercial landscape, sustainable landscape
Posted in Sustainable Landscaping, Uncategorized | No Comments »
October 4th, 2011
Planned water management will help preserve our most precious resource and bring significant savings on your water bill. Read our tips on smart irrigation to avoid water-use penalties and yet maintain an attractive landscape.
Tips for smart water management:
- Plan a water-efficient/sustainable landscape: Selecting low water use, local plants can significantly reduce your water consumption without compromising the landscape design. You don’t need a sprawling turf in a drought-prone area to have an attractive landscape.
- Consider desert landscaping: Trying to turn a desert into a garden may be futile no matter how much water you pump into it. It would be easier and yield better results if you install and maintain desert landscaping, replacing traditional greenery with bright hues of color.
- Convert to smart irrigation systems: The latest drip irrigation systems, smart sprinklers and controllers provide plants with the right amounts of water. This reduces wastage and boosts overall water efficiency.
- Make a proper water management plan: Assess your landscape requirements and devise a proper water management plan to stay on track. Constantly monitor your progress and make adjustments if required to improve water-efficiency and savings.
Managing a commercial landscape and adopting water-efficient practices is easy with the help of professionals. A certified water management company has the knowledge, experience and the latest technology to help you. They can help you take advantage of rebates to implement advanced irrigation systems and enhance your efforts towards LEED certification.
Tags: water consumption, water efficiency, water management
Posted in Water Use Reduction | No Comments »
September 27th, 2011
Effective pest control in your urban garden will save you the effort and stress of dealing with disease and continual insect infestations. The close proximity of neighboring landscapes often means that your garden can easily attract pests and disease. Taking a few preventative steps will yield vibrant and satisfying returns.
Steps for successful pest control in the urban garden:
- Choose the right plants: Select good quality plants that will thrive in your local growing conditions. The hardier they are, the easier it is to maintain them. Maintaining a commercial landscape is laborious, time consuming and expensive. Making the right choice of plants will significantly reduce your cost, effort and stress.
- Get good quality top soil: Cheap top soil usually contains weeds, odds and ends that can start you off the wrong way. Using nutrient-rich soil encourages plant health and resistance to disease.
- Check your garden periodically: Examine your plants from time to time. Discoloration, dark spots and half-eaten leaves are a sign of trouble. Look for holes and signs of animals like raccoons, squirrels, rats (and other rodents), rabbits and even cats and dogs.
- Use organic pest control: Practice organic methods of pest control rather than resort to harsh chemicals. They work better and are safer to use. For instance, install motion sensor sprinklers to prevent animals from entering your garden and also make sure there are no holes in your gate or fence for rodents and other pests to come through.
- Make your garden less attractive to pests: If you know that your area has a pest problem, plant companion plants that confuse or repel them. Your local nursery or landscape maintenance company can help with this.
Maintaining a healthy commercial landscape or golf course needs continuous effort. Hire an established landscape management company for effective pest control in the urban garden.
Tags: Pest Control, urban garden pest control
Posted in Pest Control | No Comments »
September 17th, 2011
Yellowing leaves, dark spots or split branches are often a sign that your trees, shrubs and plants need immediate attention. Insect and disease prevention is crucial to the health and vibrancy of your property. Regular maintenance strengthens your plants and prevents early demise. Read our tips and learn how to do this.
Tips for effective insect and disease prevention
- Buy healthy plants: Make sure your plants are in good health, i.e. disease and insect free when you purchase them. Infected trees and shrubs are difficult to care for and the results are not always encouraging no matter how hard you try.
- Use good quality soil, top dressing and mulch: Soil and top dressing provide your plants with the vitamins and nutrients they need. Along with mulch they’re responsible for preventing damage from extreme temperature fluctuations and dry out.
- Fertilize regularly: Plants need nourishment. Proper fertilization treatments replenish nutrients in the soil and strengthen plants’ resistance to insects, disease and extreme weather.
- Avoid overwatering: Excess water is usually responsible for mold, mildew, fungus and disease. It’s important to know how much irrigation is required and provide only what is needed.
- Clear brush: Overgrown foliage harbors insects and disease in addition to becoming a fire hazard. Regular brush removal gives trees and plants room to grow and proper access to sunlight, water and nutrients in the soil.
- Perform regular landscape maintenance: Regular landscape maintenance provides trees and plants with the care they need to last a long time.
An established landscape management company will offer proven solutions for insect and disease prevention. They can keep your property looking vibrant and healthy all year round.
Tags: disease prevention, insect and disease prevention, insect prevention
Posted in Pest Control | No Comments »
September 10th, 2011
Flora Terra offers expert lawn maintenance and renovation to enhance the professional image of your company. Ongoing monitoring and upkeep of your grounds can reduce watering costs along with maintenance expenses. Growing quality turf or grass is not difficult but takes time, patience and effort. You can use the best quality sod or grass seed but without proper and regular care the results will be less than satisfactory.
Tips on lawn maintenance and renovation
- Improving soil quality: Soil composition changes over time with the weather and handling – high traffic areas are especially vulnerable. Poor soil cannot provide your grass with the nutrients it needs. Replenishing your lawn with good quality top soil once a year is a good way to develop strong, disease-resistant grass.
- Periodic fertilization: Rain, frost and wind deplete nutrients, which are essential for a vibrant lawn. Regular fertilization programs will refill the essential vitamins that it requires.
- Adequate Watering: Proper lawn maintenance means adequate not over watering. Long periods of irrigation are preferable to frequent and short watering cycles that don’t penetrate the soil. Excess water leads to swampy conditions that encourage mold growth and reduce the soil’s ability to breathe.
- Proper mowing techniques: It’s better to mow frequently so that you don’t cut more than one third of the grass blades at a time. Keep the lawn short in spring and fall but longer during summer to reduce stress and encourage good growth.
- Timely renovation: If your grass is showing extreme signs of wear and tear, it’s time to invest in lawn renovation. Overuse, disease, wrong type of grass, etc. are difficult to correct and it may be best to start over.
- Regular maintenance: There are no shortcuts to regular lawn maintenance. A vibrant turf is the result of continuous care.
Get an experienced landscaping company, like FloraTerra to take over your lawn maintenance and renovation so you can maintain a professional corporate image.
Tags: Lawn maintenance, lawn maintenance tips, lawn renovation
Posted in Landscape Renovation, Lawn Care | No Comments »
September 3rd, 2011
Soil testing and analysis is important for good soil balance. It determines:
- Soil type/composition – essential to plant selection
- Nutrient content and pH levels – influences plant growth and health
- Deficiencies – helps identify the kind of soil treatments and fertilization programs required
- Contaminants – helps formulate an effective remedial plan
While there are many do-it-yourself soil testing kits available, the analysis is not comprehensive and results aren’t always accurate.
Successful soil testing includes:
- Taking a couple of samples from different areas of your landscape. Proper handling of the samples is crucial to the accuracy of analysis.
- Conducting a detailed laboratory analysis of the samples – going beyond major nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium to include pH levels and secondary nutrients like sulphur, calcium and magnesium.
- Interpreting the results in terms of plant growth or yield
- Using the results to improve the health and vibrancy of your landscape
Soil composition changes with time, weather and handling. Periodic tests will make landscape management easier.
An experienced landscaping company like Flora Terra has the experience and the equipment to conduct accurate soil testing and report the important details you need.
Tags: soil analysis, soil balance, soil testing
Posted in Landscape Renovation, Lawn Care | No Comments »
