The GroundsKeeper, Inc.

Proper Irrigation Practices

2010-08-20T16:55:00.001-04:00

This is the time of year for New England lawns to burn, so if you're lucky enough to have an irrigation system, you should keep your lawn watered. Here are a few tips to make sure you are watering your lawns properly:

You want to make sure that you water your lawn long enough to have an effect, but not so long that it gets soggy. Applying water faster than the soil can absorb it can lead to run off and wasted water. Keep in mind that light, frequent watering encourages shallow roots. On the flip side, excessive watering keeps the root system saturated with water and is harmful to the lawn. Roots need a balance of water and air to function and grow properly. We recommend watering 2-3x a week for at least an hour, rather than everyday for only 20 minutes or everyday for several hours.

What about time of day? The best time for lawn irrigation is in the early morning hours. Watering in late afternoon or late morning may be detrimental if it extends the time the lawn is naturally wet from dew. Avoid watering during the day to prevent immediate evaporation and even scalding the lawn on very hot days.

If your lawn has burned and you don't have a sprinkler system, don't worry. Fall is the best time to aerate and seed your lawn. Check back for our next blog about just that topic!

Weeds Are Always Bad, or Are They?

2010-07-26T08:30:00.008-04:00

Everyone hates weeds. We hear and read that the presence of weeds is harmful to the landscape. But, are there any weeds that have benefits to the landscape? Here’s what we’ve learned.

Oddly enough, there have been a few documented benefits to the existence of weeds in the landscape. Some weeds are considered to be native wild flowers. Naturally found in fields, they are admired and even protected for their beauty. In addition, flowers of certain weeds have been found to attract friendly insects that may prey upon undesirable pests. For instance, Queen Anne’s Lace, aside from being pretty, is known for hosting beneficial insect. Other weeds attract bees that aid in pollination.

Other positive attributes of weeds include soil retention and environmental indication. Many weeds protect topsoil from erosion due to wind and rain. Their roots, aside from holding soil, can penetrate often impermeable layers at extreme depths (20 feet sometimes) making drainage better. This action also aids in nutrient availability, since new resources can be reached later through the root decomposition.

We know that weeds can be an indicator of what’s going on around them. The amount of water, nutrients and minerals can often be analyzed through the existing weeds and their growth habits. Other factors can be examined such as pH levels, permeability and fertility of soil. Perennial weed communities (dandelion, blackberry, milkweed) are often the best indicators, as opposed to annual weeds or a single plant. Some weeds have a narrow tolerance for environmental conditions so factors can be easily noted. For instance, dandelions are a sign of alkaline soil, black medic is a sign of low nitrogen soil and clover is also a sign of low nitrogen soil.

Although weeds are usually thought of as a nuisance, their presence in the ecosystem may be beneficial to some extent. They are able to dictate what’s going on around them and often help in erosion, nutrient availability, and attraction of helpful insects. If handled appropriately, this indication process can be used by gardeners to analyze how their soil is behaving.

In our next blog, we’ll talk about best practices for eliminating weeds in the landscape!

Now that's a big weed.

Dandelion image courtesy of Univeristy of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture.

Milkweed images courtesy of Butler University, The Friesner Herbarium.

New Team Member!

2010-07-23T14:23:00.000-04:00

We are pleased to welcome Justin Littlehale to the TGK team as our new Commercial Account Manager. Justin found his way into the green industry after working at an office job, where sitting inside looking out wasn't good enough! He quit his desk job and started his own landscape company which he ran for the last 10 years.

Justin brings a new skill set to The GroundsKeeper - he is ICPI certified. The Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute (ICPI) is the North American trade association representing the interlocking concrete paving industry. We are excited about the skills, training and ideas Justin will bring to our hardscape & enhancements services. He also has his Massachusetts Pesticide license.

According to Justin, his favorite parts of his job are the ability to work outside with nature, and the instant gratification he gets when he leaves a property at the end of the day.

Justin lives in Brockton with his wife Christina and they are expecting their first child in August.

MCLP, MCA & MLP - What does it mean?

2010-07-14T12:00:00.028-04:00

The very first TGK blog was about certifications, but what do all of those letters (MLP, MCA, MCLP) really mean? Read on to find out why hiring certified technicians is important to your landscape:

Rigorous testing means greater understanding. Greater understanding means high quality results you'll appreciate.

Consider the following: MCA and MCLP certification exams are offered just twice a year, and this past year only about 30% of those who took the certification tests passed. That's quite a select group. What's more, those who become certified are required to earn yearly credits in order to maintain their certified status. Which means that before certified professionals take your property in hand, they must be thoroughly versed in the skills and knowledge of their profession.

Individuals who hold the Massachusetts Certified Arborist (MCA) or Massachusetts Certified Landscape Professional (MCLP) designation have been found to meet criteria of competence as established by the certification and examining committees of the MAA and MLP.

We believe superior service resides in the details. To master those details, certified professionals are rigorously tested before they are certified. They're required to demonstrate expert knowledge in many areas. Here are just a few:
Comprehensive plant and tree identification
Insect and disease diagnosis and management
The latest planting and transplanting practices
Advanced soil analysis and fertilization methods
Lawn restoration and tree preservation techniques
To maintain their certification, every year certified professionals must complete a detailed accounting of involvement in the industry including continuing education, training and professional contributions. Choose a certified professional to ensure the health and beauty of your trees and landscape.

Healthy, beautiful, and enduring - three important words for your trees and landscape. But achieving those qualities requires the special expertise offered by the professionals who are MCLP's and MCA's.
The trained eye of a certified arborist or landscape professional blends the physical realities of your property with your aesthetic needs to create a single expert vision. Then it responds to beautify your trees and landscape, and ensure that they flourish. And when they're thriving, they're valuable.

In fact, studies have shown that well-planned, harmonious landscaping provides an estimated 100% to 200% return on investment - higher than what you'd find with a kitchen or bathroom renovation. So why settle for less than certified care? You trust CPAs with your taxes because they're properly certified. You should expect the same from your tree and lawn care provider - a professional who is properly licensed, insured and equipped with expert knowledge.

Expect these credentials and much more from every certified arborist or landscape professional.

Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals (MLP)

The Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals (MLP), formerly ALCM, is the only non-profit professional trade association in Massachusetts specifically created to serve the landscape management industry. Its membership includes landscape management contractors, design/build installation contractors, lawn care professionals and other allied green industry professionals. For more than 30 years, MLP has elevated the professional standards and business success of its members through education, certification, advocacy and networking.

Massachusetts Certified Landscape Professional (MCLP)

Since 1963, the Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals (MLP) -- formerly ALCM -- have been helping consumers find the most qualified landscape professionals. In 1993, MLP launched its Massachusetts Certified Landscape Professionals (MCLP) program that now boasts more than 500 certified landscape professionals throughout the Commonwealth. MCLPs are tested on the latest horticultural techniques and maintain their certification through annual renewal and continuing education. Be sure to look for the MCLP seal of certification when choosing a landscape professional.

Massachusetts Certified Arborist (MCA)

The members of the Massachusetts Arborists Association have been providing superior tree care in the Bay State for more than 75 years. The MAA’s voluntary certification program includes more than 800 Massachusetts Certified Arborists (MCAs) who set the standard of excellence in professional tree care. Each of our certified arborists brings broad expertise to the care of your trees. And because our members maintain their certification through annual professional development, you know you’re getting state-of-the-art service. Be sure to look for the MCA seal of certification when choosing a tree care professional.

Information provided from Certified Tree & Lawn and Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals. Visit both websites for more information.

At The GroundsKeeper, we are proud to have MCLPs and MCAs on staff, along with Certified Landscape Designers, Certified Snow Professionals, Certified Horticulturists, and certified pesticide applicators. Visit our website at www.groundsinc.com for more information about our services, and check out photos of our latest projects on Facebook!

Wow!

2010-07-12T13:41:00.001-04:00

These pictures were taken about 3 weeks apart - these planters look amazing!

Beautiful Containers

2010-06-24T12:00:00.003-04:00

Here are some beautiful and unique containers Lauren has been working on at a new property.

The tall plant in the middle of these pots is called elephant ears or Calocasia.

Flower Installations

2010-06-23T15:52:00.001-04:00

Our crews have been hard at work installing the flowers that we had delivered back in May. Check out their progress!

Pruning: What and When is it Done?

2010-06-21T12:21:00.003-04:00

Hard to believe June is almost over, which means it's time to start thinking about mid-summer pruning. So what is mid-summer pruning and why do you need to do it? And furthermore, what are the different kinds of pruning that need to take place throughout the year? I asked Lauren for clarification.

Spring Clean Up: In addition to the typical spring clean up, ornamental grasses and some miscellaneous perennials should be cut down. These elements are usually left over the winter months because they sustain their “winter interest.” Examples include Maiden Hair Grasses and sedum.

Mid Summer Maintenance: During the late summer months (when growing has finished or slowed down) shrubs need to be pruned to encourage a tighter habit. Examples include Juniper, Yews, and other predominately evergreen shrubs.

Fall Clean Up: In addition to the typical fall clean up (when leaves and debris are removed), perennials should be cut down to the ground to encourage a “cleaner” look throughout the winter. Examples include Catmint, Daylilies, Black Eyed Susans, etc.

Dormant Pruning: This service is often overlooked and is a huge benefit to the landscape! Dormant pruning should be done during the late winter/early spring months while the plants are considered dormant. Often a rejuvenation or thinning technique that allows a better handle on the form of the individual shrub, future growth habit, and overall relationship to its surroundings (buildings, other plants, etc). Deciduous shrubs are usually targeted during this process and can include Viburnums, Lilacs Potentilla, Roses, Burning Bush, Spirea… the list goes on!

Interested in mid-summer pruning? Give us a call at 508-881-4136 to schedule the service and get $25 off by mentioning our blog! Get an additional $25 off by becoming a fan on Facebook!

We're on Facebook!

2010-06-18T15:12:00.001-04:00

Are you on Facebook? So are we! Stop by and "like" our page, and while you're there check out all the latest photos!

All Facebook Fans get $25 off TGK services!

http://www.facebook.com/GroundsKeeperInc

June Landscaping To-Dos

2010-06-07T14:36:00.002-04:00

We are often asked about what to do in the yard during each summer month. Now that June is upon us, here are the things you should be focused on getting done!

Do an irrigation run-through and adjust the controller as needed
Keep an eye out for mildew, black spot, and insect damage on shrubs and trees. Treat any signs of disease early.
Round 2 of turf application
If you mow your own lawn, remember to raise your mowing height to 3.5" when the hot weather arrives to prevent burning as long as possible
Keep deadheading flowers for regrowth. Once a bloom dies, the plant will devote energy to seed production unless you remove the spent flower.
Plant hanging baskets, window boxes and containers to add color
Finish planting new trees and shrubs
It's too late to plant grass seed - wait until the fall
Cut back browned foliage of bulbs
If you start pruning any of your shrubs or trees, you'll have to prune at least 1 more time this summer. Wait until next month, if you can.
Water as necessary
Weed and fertilize annuals, perennials & rose beds
Keep up with the weeds!

We hope you are enjoying your summer! If you need any help with your yard or have any questions, let us know!

Backyard Play Area

2010-05-30T08:00:00.002-04:00

If you have kids, you most likely have a play area in your yard. So how do you make a fun and functional area for your kids while maintaining the landscape? From our experience, here are the things to consider:

Location, Size & Scope

First, consider a location that makes sense for you visually from the home and whether the space allows for ease of construction (i.e. how hard will it be to get a level grade for your pad?)

If you install the play area near the woods, you may end up with uninvited guests, like bugs & ticks. If you put it near your home, you may hear more shrieks of delight than you bargained for. On the other hand, that helps keep little ones close by where you can keep an eye on them. If you put it near the street or your driveway, you may have a potential safety issue due to traffic.

Next, think about what the play area with include. Just a swing set or a swing set, sandbox & trampoline? Carefully consider the “fall zone” for each piece of equipment – at least 6’ on all sides for flat elements, like sandboxes, and at least twice the height in the front & back for swing sets (20’ in front and back for a 10’ high swing set). You can maintain the 6’ border on the sides of swing sets. If you have a lookout tower or something similar, use twice the height on all sides as the fall zone.

Designing the Space

What do you want to use to delineate the space? We recommend railroad ties or wooden timbers, filled with mulch or stone, rather than just grass. Keep in mind that you may see weeds at some point with either mulch or stone. We don’t recommend putting down weed mat or weed barrier under the mulch or stone; it doesn’t work well and can be a hassle in the future.

The company that makes the play set should have options for a platform. Often times, they have “plastic timbers” that retain playground mulch. Playground mulch is a unique product actually made from rubber and is available in an array of vibrant colors to enhance your playground. It won’t break down like regular bark mulch, which will allow it to last a long time (some brands even offer a lifetime guarantee).

If you prefer the look of bark mulch, use the same type as you have installed in the beds around the yard. If you have stone in your driveway or on a path, consider using that material in the play area.

If your children are young, the path from your house to the play set will see a lot of traffic. The constant foot traffic won’t create optimal grass-growing conditions and may cause mud and weeds in the future. Consider adding a stone pathway from your house, deck or driveway.

Here is a before/after picture of a play-set area TGK designed and installed for a customer. We used small pea stone under the set and retained it with wooden timbers (two timbers high).

Flower delivery!

2010-05-27T14:00:00.009-04:00

Lauren received a large shipment of flowers at the shop on Wednesday. Before she installed them all, she shared with us a little about what she ordered and how she’ll use them.

I like to use Dreams™ Pink Petunia (Petunia X hybrid) in the front of the landscape bed. When in full sun, they add great color all season long. I like to add something taller behind them that contrasts in both color and texture. This year, I’m using Butterfly Marguerite Daisy (Argyranthemum frutescens). The delicate foliage and spectacular bright lemon-yellow flowers will be gorgeous all summer!

Hibiscus is great in pots & the landscape, and will flower all summer long with adequate watering. It prefers ¾ day sun and will grow very showy 5”-6” flowers! This year I’m combining them in a pot with Sweet Caroline™ Purple Sweet Potato Vine (Ipomoea batatas) & Superbells. Both are trailing vines that will compliment the height and impact of the Hibiscus.

Red pennisetum grass has awesome color and a fine texture. This annual grass is great in either landscape or pots. The best thing about it is it will last until the fall, when you can combine it with mums, kale & bright fall pansies!

If you have any questions about the flowers above, or on plant combination in general, leave us a comment.

If you'd like Lauren to give you a free estimate on any design work or any of our lawn services, call us at 508-881-4136, send us an email at info@groundsinc.com, or visit our website at http://www.groundsinc.com.

Container Gardens

2010-05-24T08:00:00.003-04:00

Short on space to plant a garden? Try a container garden, perfect for balconies, porches or patios. You can also use containers to add color on steps & decks, by a pool or seating area, or between your garage doors. You can grow almost anything in a container. Here are some tips for success.

Choosing Containers

Plants will grow in just about any kind of container; any home & garden store will have aisles of choices. Or think outside the box with household items like washtubs, laundry baskets, or a wooden Clementine box!
Drainage is key. Your pot or container needs to let excess water out of the bottom, so the plants won't sit in water or soggy soil. Make sure your container has holes in the bottom; drill holes if the drainage is insufficient. If you have a decorative pot without holes at the bottom, consider using a smaller plastic pot with holes inside the pot as a liner.
Be careful when using dark colored containers because they absorb heat, which could possibly damage the plant roots.

Choosing Plants

Determine how much sun exposure your container will get and choose plants that are happy in that environment. Also, choose plants that will play well together - plants that will be happy with the same amounts of water, sun, heat and food.
A combination of one tall plant, one filler and one trailing plant works well. Try to make sure your tallest plants won’t grow to more than twice the height of the container or more than half the width again as wide.
You can grow vegetables in containers too! Plant a tomato, a cucumber and some parsley or chives all in a large (24-30") container for summer salads. They grow well together and have the same water and sun requirements.
Plant your favorite herbs in pots that you can move indoors in the fall and winter for fresh herbs year round.

Soil & Fertilizer

Buy good quality potting soil; don’t use garden soil. Garden soil will compact too much in your container and won’t allow for proper drainage.
You can buy your potting soil with or without fertilizer. If you choose to buy without, make sure you are feeding your plants! Choose a time released fertilizer mixed in when planting or a water-soluble fertilizer every 2-4 weeks. You may want to choose an organic fertilizer if you are growing vegetables for your family to eat. You can also start your containers with organic potting soil.

Sun

While you considered sun exposure when you started, don’t forget about it as the season progresses. Try not to put containers in full mid-day sun. Container gardens heat up much more quickly and intensely than in the ground gardens. If you live in a hot zone, you may need to shade your plants for relief from mid-day sun.

Watering

Proper watering may be the most important and hardest part of container gardening. Unlike plants grown in the ground, container plant roots can't move down deeply in search of subsurface water. Don't wait until you see the plants wilting. Check your containers daily. To figure out if your plants need water, stick your finger down into the soil, about an inch, or up to your first knuckle. If the soil feels dry, add water, and if you're not sure, wait and check later in the day
Plan on DRENCHING pots 2-3 times a week depending on the weather, but the hotter it is, the more frequent your pots need to be watered. At the height of the summer, don’t be surprised if you are watering your plants on a daily basis.
Consider starting with moisture controlling potting soil; they contain absorbent “crystals” that help regulate the dampness of the soil automatically. These crystals help with both over and under watering.

Creating a Backyard Destination

2010-05-20T12:40:00.001-04:00

If money is tight and your summer vacation was postponed this year, create a backyard destination that you can enjoy every day. Your oasis will give you a place to de-stress after a long day and enjoy quality time with friends and family all summer.

Create privacy with a fence, a trellis, shrubs, trees, flowering vines or even outdoor fabric hung like curtains. Any of these can help block the view of the road or the neighbor’s yard, reduce noise and give you a hidden feeling.

Cultivate your green thumb by planting flowers, plants or trees and add color, fragrance and a lush feel at the same time. If you plant in containers or pots, you can move them around every few weeks to give the yard a new feeling. Add a couple vegetable plants to help save money this summer with fresh produce.
Use flagstone, cobblestone or pavers to create a simple patio or pathways in your yard. Add small gardens, a bench or water fountain along the path.
Have your yard treated for mosquitoes and ticks. Most mosquito sprays will last 3-4 weeks and there are organic options on the market now that are quite effective. While you can DIY for most of the list, I’d recommend calling in the professionals for this one.
Keep that grass green! Make sure you're staying on top of mowing, weeding and fertilizing. Contract with a local maintenance company to do the "heavy lifting", while you sit back and enjoy the results!
Add a hammock, patio table with umbrella or a picnic table to create a relaxing place to kick back to you backyard area or patio. I love this outdoor living room idea from Crate and Barrel. Accessorize with pillows and cushions made of weather- and water-resistant fabric. Place a rug under furniture, just as you would inside, but choose one that can be hosed off for cleaning.
Install outdoor speakers or just open the windows to hear your stereo when you are outside. If you want a more tranquil atmosphere, hang wind chimes on a porch or from a nearby tree.
Lighting will extend your relaxing days into the evening. Think about tiki lights, solar lighting, lanterns or candles scattered about the backyard. How about a couple of these bamboo solar lights?
Fire pits will quickly become a gathering point for family and guests to warm themselves and have outdoor cookouts. The light from the fire will stretch the time you spend outdoor into the evening hours. Just make sure you check the rules and regulations in your town before you install one. Here are some great affordable options.

There are a lot of easy ways to create a backyard, patio or balcony that you and your family will love to spend time in. If you're especially budget conscious this year, check out yards sales and thrift shops for pieces that can be painted or refurbished for your space. Whatever you choose to do, enjoy the fresh air and warm weather - you deserve it!

Opening Your Irrigation for the Summer

2010-05-18T17:35:00.004-04:00

If you’ve survived another cold winter in the Northeast, you are probably excited to break out the shorts and get the sprinkler system fired up for the summer. But it’s not as easy as just turning on the water. There are several simple steps to follow to start up your system for the spring.

Before turning on any water to the system, make sure all manual drain valves that you opened last fall are in the closed position.
Visually inspect all valve boxes for rodent nests and debris.
Re-attach any fittings removed in the fall, secure with new teflon tape if necessary.
Open the system main water valve slowly to allow pipes to fill with water gradually. WARNING: If these valves are opened too quickly, sprinkler main lines are subjected to high surge pressures, uncontrolled flow and water hammer. Water hammer is the clanging in water pipes produced by a surge of air pressure caused by the rush of water suddenly flowing into an empty pipe, giving the air in the pipes no time to escape. Inside the pipes, the surge pressures can reach as much as 15 times the designed operating pressure of the system. These surge pressures can burst fittings and cause sprinklers to blow right out of the ground.
Verify the proper operation of each zone valve by manually activating it from the controller and letting each zone operate for two minutes.
Walk through each zone on the controller, checking for proper operation of each valve. Check for proper operating pressure (low pressure indicates a line break or missing sprinkler), proper rotation and adjustment of sprinkler heads, and adequate coverage. Check and clean filters on poorly performing sprinklers. Adjust heads to grade as necessary.
Check vacuum breaker for leaks, there are replaceable seals that crack over time.
Clean around heads to reduce wear on your sprinkler heads.
Reprogram the controller for automatic watering. Always replace the controller back-up battery.

Everyone gets excited for summer, and we’ve all been guilty of overwatering at one time or another. Remember, an irrigation system should only act as a supplement to rain and there might not be a need to use sprinklers until June. Grass is healthiest and most resilient when it is thirsty, constantly seeking water and establishing a deep root system. Frequent watering stops the roots from seeking out deep moisture and causes shallow rooting which won't prepare grass for summer heat stress.

If recharging the irrigation system sounds intimidating or confusing, please do not hesitate to call in the professionals. Irrigation systems are somewhat complex and lawn sprinkler installers are becoming licensed irrigation technicians in many states.

Selecting a Landscape Contractor for Homeowners

2010-05-14T16:33:00.003-04:00

Yesterday we gave tips for selecting a landscape contractor for condos and homeowner associations, but what if you are a homeowner looking for help in the yard?

Did you know that landscaping will add 7-15% to the value of your home? On average, this signifies 100% to 200% return on landscaping investments! Landscape projects can be complex, expansive and expensive, so hiring the right firm is essential. But what are the steps to choosing the right company? We’ve outlined them below:

STEP 1: WHAT DO YOU NEED?

Before you can start looking for a landscape contractor, you need to know what you want. Inviting a landscaper to come over and do a walkaround before you’ve put parameters around the project is a waste of time for everyone involved. Here are some questions you need to ask yourself:

What is your project? Define what you want to the best of your ability. Try to find pictures in magazines or in your own neighborhood of features you like.
What services does your project need?
What’s your budget?
What’s your timeline? Is there a specific deadline for completion?
Any outside-the-box requests? Are you looking to have an eco-friendly result? Only want to use organic materials? Do you want to do part of the project yourself?

STEP 2: FIND COMPANIES

Ask your neighbors for a recommendation. Look around the neighborhood for trucks & trailers or lawn signs.
Try doing a web search for keywords related to your project and your town, such as “sod installation Ashland MA”. Any reputable firm should have a website that includes services they offer, pictures of their work and background information on the business.
Check out review-based sites like Angie’s List and Yelp and see which contractors rate highly in your area. Don’t only rely on these sites though; people are always more apt to share a negative experience than a positive one. Combine the information from these sites with the rest of your research.
Find out as much on the background of a company as you can. It’s important to keep in mind that the landscaping industry has one of the highest company turnover rates when compared with other small businesses. For every first rate landscaping contractor, there are numerous “lawn mower and a pick-up truck” companies, which may be unlicensed, uninsured, and operating outside of set rules and regulations.
Landscape contractors build their business based on the projects they have completed. They should be more than willing to show you examples of their work, often in a before and after format. Have they worked on projects similar to yours in the past? Do you like the general outcome of their projects?
Hiring a company that values education and industry involvement ensures that the staff keeps up with the latest news, techniques, best management practices and developments. Look for associations like Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals (MLP), Mass Nurseryman and Landscapers Association (MNLA) and Mass Horticultural Society (MHS). The staff should have formal education and certification within the industry, such as Mass Certified Landscape Professional (MCLP), Mass Certified Arborist (MCA), Mass Certified Horticulturist (MCH) and Certified Landscape Designer (CLD).
Keep in mind that there are certain landscape tasks that require a license; ask the company if your project has components that will require special licenses.

STEP 3: INTERVIEW AT LEAST 3
Ask lots of questions! When meeting with potential contractors share your vision and ask them for feedback. You can get a good idea of how you will work as a team; is the contractor open to your ideas? Are they suggesting ideas that fit well with your plan? Are they interested in offering upgrades that will blow up your budget or are they staying in line with your plan?

STEP 4: CHECK REFERENCES
Ask for a list of references and check them. Make sure you understand what kind of a project the contractor did for each reference and call on those that are similar to your project. Calling on a basic maintenance client won’t be helpful if you are looking for a cobblestone walkway.

STEP 5: CONTRACT/INSURANCE/GUARANTEES/TIMETABLE

Ask for proof of insurance, both liability and worker’s compensation. Working with an uninsured company means you might pay less for the service, but you could have a huge liability risk for your property and your home.
Does the contractor offer guarantees or warranties on the work they do and materials they install? Ask for one. Are they willing to sign a one-year service contract on the project for repairs?
Don’t start the project without a formal quote and contract, as well as a project timeline. Don't accept a verbal commitment; protect yourself from any problems that may arise.

Landscaping is an important investment, and the relationship with your contractor will hopefully last for years. Take the time to evaluate all the possibilities. If you find someone with great references, a beautiful portfolio, an enthusiasm for your project and the ability to deliver within budget, you have found your new landscape contractor. Best of luck!

10 Great Backyard Ideas

2010-05-14T16:26:00.001-04:00

I just stumbled across this great article on myhomeideas.com (which is a fantastic site full of information from All You, Coastal Living, Cooking Light, Health, MyRecipes, Real Simple, Southern Accents, Southern Living, Sunset, and This Old House). 10 projects that are fun and easy, and can be finished in a weekend or less! Check it out!

10 Great Backyard Ideas

Selecting a Landscape Contractor for HOAs & Condos

2010-05-12T17:07:00.005-04:00

A large portion of our clients are condominium & apartment complexes and Homeowner Associations, so we thought it might be helpful to share some information about how to select a landscape contractor in those situations.

Unless you are in the middle of a multi-year landscape contract, you are in the midst the process of signing a new landscape contract for this season. Landscape services are often one of the top expenses on an association’s budget, and it’s not uncommon for contractors to be chosen based on their ability to bid low.

If your association’s only determining factor is price, then your job should be easy. When you go out to bid, do your best to describe the landscaping tasks and try to get as many responses as possible so that you are certain to get the low bid. I believe there are circumstances that mandate an association seeking the lowest cost and there are contractors who thrive on delivering low cost service. When this match up works, everyone wins.

Keep in mind there may be some issues if you only contract with the lowest bidder:

Is your contractor able to make a profit and stay in business? If the answer is no, you might find yourself looking for a new contractor next season, or part way through this season.
Does your contractor strive to deliver low cost service or will they need to cut corners on their work?
Does your contractor have a reputation within the industry because of their pricing? Will that reputation reflect on your property negatively?

If your association is in the enviable position to look beyond price, what are the other factors to consider?

References: Call or visit references listed on a proposal. Does the property closely resemble yours? Does it have enhancements that your association is looking for? How long has the contractor been servicing the account? Does the contractor have any multi-year contracts? Answers to these questions will reinforce that the contractor can service your property effectively while maintaining a good relationship with your association and property managers, and also that they can deliver satisfactory service at a price that is reasonable over several years.

Personnel: Request the credentials of key staff that would be involved in servicing your account. There should be at least one key employee with formal education in the green industry. The remaining organization should have one or more specialists and the crew chiefs should have a minimum three to five years experience in the industry.

Memberships: Maintaining memberships with industry associations can ensure that the staff keeps up with the latest news, techniques, best management practices and developments. Look for associations such as Massachusetts Association of Landscape Professionals (MLP), Mass Nurseryman and Landscapers Association (MNLA) and Mass Horticultural Society (MHS). Don’t forget CAI and BOMA as appropriate industry associations for landscapers too.

Certifications: Quality landscapers spend time and money in education and certification because that is what enables them to deliver the quality. Certifications include Mass Certified Landscape Professional (MCLP), Mass Certified Arborist (MCA), Mass Certified Horticulturist (MCH) and Certified Landscape Designer (CLD); these certifications also require a certain amount of continuing education in order to be re-certified each year.

Licensing: There are landscape tasks that require a license, like pesticide application. Anyone who applies a pesticide or herbicide must be licensed by the state or be under the control of a licensed applicator. Pre-qualify your bidders by having them list any state licenses they hold.

Whether you chose your landscape contractor based on price or on service and quality, make sure you clearly state your landscape requirements in your RFP. Clearly communicating what you need and what you are looking for is the first step in creating a long-term relationship with the contractor you choose.

Great additional resource:
http://www.caionline.org/info/readingroom/Pages/LandscapeContractors.aspx

If you have any questions on this, or want any additional information on the process, let us know. Either leave a comment here or send an email to info@groundsinc.com.

Rejuvenating Your Existing Landscape

2010-05-11T17:03:00.002-04:00

Not looking for a huge outdoor overhaul this year? Here are a few simple ideas to update your yard.

Overgrown Landscapes
Are your trees and shrubs becoming overgrown or in need of a little TLC? You’ll be surprised what a few hours of appropriate pruning can do to rejuvenate your existing landscape! Not only are you bringing your landscape back to proportion with your home, but you’re also increasing the health and vitality of the plant material with just a little extra attention.

Before and after a dormant pruning

More ideas after the jump...

Add Interest and Functionality to Existing Areas
Sometimes function isn’t always attractive looking. By adding simple upgrades to key elements in your landscape, you can really transform specific areas! For instance, add a border around a playground, a cobble edge or apron to your driveway, or take your downspouts underground… you can increase the appearance outside your home and add to your home’s value at the same time!

A simple treatment to an existing play ground increases its appeal

Feeling overwhelmed and don’t know where to begin?
Often, a simple "right plant in the right place" consultation can help transform your landscape by implementing the correct plant material! This simple transition will add color, texture, and year round interest to any landscape without having to start from scratch.

Removing an unruly plant with a more appropriate ground cover

adds a cleaner appearance to the planting bed:

For more information about any of our services, call us at 508-881-4136, send us an email at info@groundsinc.com, or visit our website at http://www.groundsinc.com//.

Enhancements

2010-04-29T15:35:00.015-04:00

Take a look at a couple recent TGK projects.

Deck Planting

Before:

Design:

After:

Click the link below to see one more great TGK project!

Driveway/Walkway/Planting
This is one of our favorite completed projects; it was fairly large in scale, involved a new driveway location, tricky areas to design, stone work & landscaping. A true accomplishment for the whole TGK team!

Before:

Design:

After:

To see more, check out the Before & After Gallery on our facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/GroundsKeeperInc. While you're there, become a fan!

If you'd like our Enhancements Manager to give you a free estimate on any design work or any of our lawn services, call us at 508-881-4136, send us an email at info@groundsinc.com, or visit our website at http://www.groundsinc.com/.

Mulch, Mulch, Mulch!

2010-04-27T14:20:00.004-04:00

Maybe it is because we’re in the business, but one of our favorite springtime smells is fresh bark mulch. You may not think a lot about the specifics of mulch and mulching best practices, but there might be issues in your yard that you need to address.

Click the link below to learn more about mulch!

First, some basics: why do you even need bark mulch? Three reasons:

1. Moisture conservation & retention

2. Soil temperature reduction

3. Weed growth reduction (but not elimination)

Generally speaking, 1.5 - 2 inches of mulch is the optimum total depth for moisture conservation and temperature modification.

So, that leads to your next question – what really happens if I have too much mulch?

1. Enough mulch = water retention; too much mulch = soggy soil & wet bark. Research has shown that azalea, rhododendron, and yews suffer most from extended periods of continuously wet soils. Also, if mulch is piled up against the stem of these plants, it will lead to constantly wet bark and the potential for disease development.

2. Wet soil = hungry roots. The ground accumulates layers of decomposing mulch that become wet and virtually seal the soil surface. Roots under a sealed surface layer become starved for the oxygen necessary for growth and development. A weakened root system can lead to poor foliage, late or sporadic flowering, weak stems and smaller leaves on new growth.

On the topic of too much mulch, let's discuss tree volcanoes. I’m sure you’ve seen trees in your neighbor’s yards with so much mulch piled around the base that it looks like a volcano? This should be fixed as soon as possible. The tree bark will decompose under the layer of mulch and may result in an open wound (canker) in the bark that doesn't heal. This breaks the essential connection between the food producing foliage and the nutrient absorbing root system. Research has shown that flowering cherry, dogwood and ash trees seem to be most susceptible to this type of bark injury.

When thinking about buying mulch, we warn you to be aware of the bright orange mulch that appeared on the market a couple years ago. You may not realize it, but it isn’t real bark mulch; just ground up wooden pallets spray-painted to look like mulch. Recycled wood products are no substitute for bark mulch; the two are distinctively different. Remember what we said earlier about bark mulch retaining moisture? Well, recycled wood products don’t.

For the overall health of your shrubs, be aware of your mulch depth. If the mulch beds tend to be over 3 inches deep, remove the excess mulch and reapply no more than 1.5 inches. A one-time removal procedure can be a labor-intensive job, so the best way to prevent this from happening in the future is to ensure that mulch removal is included in your spring clean-up each year.

If you'd like to schedule delivery or installation of fresh mulch for spring or would like a free estimate on any of our lawn services, call us at 508-881-4136, send us an email at info@groundsinc.com, or visit our website at http://www.groundsinc.com/.

Soil Testing

2010-04-16T13:35:00.008-04:00

One of the most important lawn projects any homeowner takes on is fertilizing. With a recommended application of 4 times per year, the process is time consuming if you do it yourself or expensive if you have your landscaper do it. So what’s the most important factor in a successful fert program? The pH level of your soil. Fertilizer works best when the soil pH is 7.0. New England is known for having acidic soil, especially where oak and pine trees grow. So how do you figure out the pH level of your soil and how do you fix it? The answer is soil testing; not a service you hear a lot about, but one that can make all the difference in your landscape.

Soil testing provides the best lime and fertilizer recommendations, which will help you protect the environment from runoff and leaching of excess fertilizers and save money and conserve energy by recommending the amount of fertilizer you actually need. Overall, it is essential to improving the nutritional balance and overall health of your yard.

When should I test my soil?
Soil sampling can be done at any time. If you are planning a new landscape project, you should test your soil a few months in advance. This will give you enough time to put the recommendations into action. Industry guidelines recommend sampling any established areas once every three to four years.

How do I test my soil?

You can test your soil on your own; UMASS Amherst Soil and Plant Tissue Testing Laboratory offers several different testing options. Learn more at http://www.umass.edu/plsoils/soiltest/. Expect to pay $5-$15 per area for the test. Results are typically sent out within 2 weeks.
Your landscaper can test your soil for you. They will send it out to a group like UMASS, but they will manage taking the samples, sending them out and getting the results back to you. Expect to pay up to $30 per area for the test.
On a single property, the soils can be distinctly different. For example, your yard is most likely comprised of a lawn, a vegetable or flower garden and shrub/tree areas. For each unique area, take at least 8-10 subsamples and combine them to make one sample. If one area of your yard seems healthy and another has bare or yellow areas, sample those areas separately even if both are lawn grasses or flower gardens, etc. You will need one cup of mixed, dry soil per area for the test.
Don’t sample any soil that was recently fertilized. You are trying to get the most accurate data regarding the natural pH and nutrient content of your soil and a recent fertilizing will distort your results.
When testing soil from planted beds, take the sample from the top 6-8 inches (below the mulch). When testing established turf areas, take the sample from the top 3-4 inches.

What now?
Soil test results show your soil’s pH, nutrient and mineral content and advice on how to use lime and fertilizer to cultivate a “well rounded” soil.

Overall, soil sampling is just the first step in the right direction to attaining a healthy and bountiful landscape. Healthy plants and turf grass are also a result of proper watering, good drainage, adequate light and air circulation, proper mowing techniques, dethatching/over-seeding (when necessary) and prevention of soil compaction.

For more information about soil testing or any of our services, call us at 508-881-4136, send us an email at info@groundsinc.com, or visit our website at http://www.groundsinc.com/.

Friday Landscape Tips from TGK

2010-04-09T14:09:00.002-04:00

Here's the first in our new Friday Tips series. If you have questions or need advice on a specific topic, leave us a comment and we'll get you an answer!

One of the first things you should plan in the spring is rake your lawn. Raking is one of the most beneficial factors in having a healthy lawn. Raking removes any matter that may be embedded in the grass that will prohibit new growth (like acorns, pine cones, pine needles, sticks and branches). It also removes thatch (a mat of undecomposed material). Although having a thin layer of thatch is always a good thing, a thick layer will suffocate your grass. It will also make it more difficult for water and nutrients to make it deep into the roots, where it is vital to have a strong and healthy lawn. Having raked your lawn, you now have “opened” up the barrier at the base of the grass to let the sunshine and nutrients work their magic.

Spring is here!

2010-04-02T16:34:00.004-04:00

If you live in the Northeast, you most likely intend to spend your Easter weekend outside, drying out from the record rain we've seen over the last month. Want to tackle the yard? Here are some do's and don'ts for getting your yard in shape from The GroundsKeeper:

Don't do any yard work if your lawn is soggy or saturated; let it dry out. If you start too soon, you run the risk of doing more damage than good.
Do take pictures of any areas in your yard where you had standing water (or still have it). Now is the time to plan drainage construction projects to help prevent these issues in the future, and pictures will help your contractor.
Do clean the winter and fall debris from your lawn and beds.
Do rake your lawn - if you clean up piles on your lawn, you'll prevent yellow spots from forming.
Do clean out any organic materials from around the new shoots on perennials.
Do plant pansies! Add a little color to your yard with these great spring flowers.
Don't put grass seed down on any bare spots on your lawn. The ground temperature hasn't warmed up enough for the seed to germinate.

Whether or not you decide to start any yard projects this weekend, make sure you get out and enjoy the sunshine! If you'd like to schedule a spring clean-up or would like a free estimate on any of our lawn services, call us at 508-881-4136, send us an email at info@groundsinc.com, or visit our website at http://www.groundsinc.com/. Happy Spring!

Certifications and Accreditations

2010-03-31T10:06:00.006-04:00

At The GroundsKeeper, education and industry involvement are key parts of our employees’ roles. Enhancements Manager Lauren Conroy holds the most certifications on staff and hopes to add another credit to her name in the very near future. So what does it all mean to Lauren and ultimately to her customers? Read on to find out.

“I initially received my MCH accreditation while working at a nursery when I was younger because I love plants! I quickly realized how important education and certifications are to maintaining your position in the industry. It also prepares you for greater job responsibility, strengthens your skills and knowledge, and demonstrates your commitment to your profession.

Although all my credentials are important and valuable to my role at The GroundsKeeper, Inc., my Design Certificate (CLD) is the most important to me. I received it through the Landscape Institute at Harvard University after college and it was a great experience. Aside from my CLD, my Massachusetts Certification for both Horticulture and Landscape Professional allow me to be knowledgeable in shrub care, hardscape features, and most importantly, safety! In addition, they all combine to give me the confidence needed to pursue anything in the landscape industry.

To become accredited, there is usually a written exam and often additional time or experience requirements that you must complete. To become a Mass Certified Landscape Professional, you have to pass a test that covers everything from safety to proper walkway construction, and tree and shrub identification. However, it doesn’t end there! Every year, there is required association involvement to keep your accreditation. This includes trade shows and meetings where we continue to learn about landscape, horticultural and design topics such as the Asian Long Horned Beetle and water conservation.

Next, I’m working to become a Massachusetts Certified Arborist (MCA). This accreditation is through the Massachusetts Arborist Association (MAA), and addresses various topics such as tree and soil biology, arboriculture safety, proper pruning techniques, disease and insect identification, and tree and shrub installation and identification. This accreditation will allow me to become more familiar with the tree care industry so The GroundsKeeper, Inc. can really handle all realms of the landscape!

For the customer, these various accreditations show how serious we are about industry involvement and continued education. We know it is important to stay on the cutting edge of developments, issues, techniques and new products.”

In addition to her CLD, MCH and MCLP, Lauren also holds a Pesticide License and is one of four Certified Snow Professionals on staff at The GroundsKeeper, Inc. Visit http://www.groundsinc.com/ for more information on our services.