In last week’s blog, we focused on learning the foundational terms of describing style. Now, let’s focus on a popular combination of several styles: Contemporary style. What is Contemporary style, with regard to landscape design? Contemporary style reimagines several other design concepts, and shows up in a range of current trends. We tend to see…
A lot has changed in the world of landscape design over the past couple of years. So for this month, we wanted to use a series of blogs to update you on this year’s most current styles. While there’s no need to stick to the strict confines of a label, words do help us to…
Wood is perhaps the most commonly used material for a number of home and landscaping uses. But as we all know, wood can discolor, warp, crack, and show its age before long. The sun and rain can do serious damage over time, and you can’t exactly control those. So, what can you do to protect…
Now that spring has arrived, you’re probably thinking about seasonal crafts and holidays. If you’re trying to decide what to gift your loved ones for Easter, why not combine these two ideas and make them a special basket right from your own garden? They will receive a gift made with love, and you (and your…
If you see new growths bursting up around the main trunk of your tree, this means your tree is struggling to survive in a stressful situation by producing suckers. You might discover suckers during times of drought, or when your tree is planted in a less-than-ideal location (such as when it is flanked by concrete)….
As we often remind you in our blogs, choosing the right location for a tree is the first step to a successful planting. But this can go beyond simply identifying the right spot in your yard. You might also be wondering if you can plant a tree in an artificial turf lawn, or in decomposed…
Having your own backyard bocce ball court can provide a lot of fun, but to keep it looking its best, there is some upkeep needed, especially if it is being regularly used for (fun!) game play. So that you don’t feel overwhelmed by figuring out what to do and when, we’ve put together this quick guide….
As you might have heard, the various groundhogs around the country could not reach an agreement regarding the arrival of spring. Some predicted an early spring, while others say winter will last six more weeks. Here in Southern California, we don’t have too much of a “winter” anyway! So, we can count on spring arriving…
Valentine’s Day has arrived, and you might be considering a cut flower arrangement for your special someone. And sure, you can just head to the floral department at your grocery store and pick up an arrangement… And you probably will since it’s February and your garden isn’t exactly blooming in full force right now. But…
Who doesn’t love a big bowl of homemade guacamole? And it’s even better when it comes from your own yard! If you’re thinking about growing an avocado tree, here’s a brief guide to the basics. Do you need more than one? With some other types of fruit trees, you absolutely need more than one in…
As you might have noticed from weather reports around the country, winter has fully arrived! Of course, for those of us in Southern California, winter just doesn’t mean the same thing as it does elsewhere. So when it comes to winter gardening, you might have a few questions. Can I plant spring bulbs yet? Yes!…
Most of us want to get into better shape and feel healthier, but not everyone considers themselves a “gym person”. That’s okay! You can still get into great shape by working out at home, or even in the great outdoors. In fact, the extra boost of vitamin D will be good for you. It might…
Now that the holidays have come and gone, many of us are feeling the effects of a tad too much indulgence. Between food, drink, and making merry, you probably feel the need for a bit of cleansing in your life. Fortunately, nature provides for that need. Yes, plants can help us detox our bodies in…
Each year, we update you on Pantone’s Color of the Year and offer our tips for incorporating the trendy hue in your home and landscape. For 2022, we’re excited to announce Very Peri, a lovely shade of blue with strong purple influence. As Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute said in a…
Once your patio, porch, or pool deck is complete, now it’s time to add the finishing touches. You’ll enjoy your new outdoor space so much more when you select furnishings that both appeal to your sense of style while providing comfort. Here’s what you need to know about shopping for outdoor furnishings. Consider materials. Fully…