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Tag: shrubs

9 Ways to Dig Your Way into a Gorgeous Fall!

We are still in the middle of some extremely hot weather, but with school starting soon and football season around the corner, August often seems to fly by.  Southern Scape Landscaping is encouraging everyone to start planning for those September landscape projects in North Alabama.  Fall will be here before we know it, and after this hot summer, it can’t get here soon enough and it is best to be prepared.

Landscape and Garden Planning for September in Alabama

  1. Shrubs—Study your landscape to determine plant needs. Check early varieties of camellias. You may want to replace those damaged in spring by late freezes. After fall growth is completed, spray all shrubs with a fungicide.
  2. Lawns—Plant seed of winter grasses where situation prevents planting permanent grasses. Winter seeds will appear soon. Stop fertilization three weeks before frost.
  3. Roses—Protect fall crops blossoms from aphids and thrips. Always take measures to keep plants healthy.
  4. Annuals and Perennials—This is your last chance for planting perennials and biennials. Old clumps of perennials may be divided. Plant peonies.
  5. Bulbs—Spring-flowering bulbs may be planted in late September in North Alabama.
  6. Miscellaneous—Clean up infestations of insects on azaleas, camellias, boxwoods, gardenias, hollies, etc.  If oil spray is needed, don’t use in freezing weather. Build compost bin or box; leaves will be falling soon.  Move houseplants indoors.
  7. Vegetable Seed—Plant hardy vegetables and root crops.
  8. Vegetable Plants—Plant cabbage, collards, cauliflower, celery, Brussels sprouts, and onion sets.
  9. Fruits and Nuts—Start plans for future selection and plantings. Take soil test for new planting areas. Fertilize established strawberry plantings.

Southern Scape is here to help with all of your Huntsville landscaping needs!

 

5 Tips to Increase the Value of Your Home by 15%

With the Spring Tour of Homes continuing this weekend in Huntsville, AL and with so many people putting their homes on the market in the Spring, we wanted to offer some tips to spruce up your property and increase its value.

Landscaping is one of very few home improvements that will actually allow you to get all of your investment back and more. With the proper planning and the right improvements, you can easily double or even triple your investment in your landscape when you are ready to sell. And if you don’t plan to sell, a well-maintained landscape will make living in your home an even greater joy.

Decorative, yes, but your home’s landscape also matters for financial reasons, as well. The right landscape can increase a home’s value by 15%, according to the Association of Landscape Contractors of America.

Most people think that “landscape” simply means plants. But consider the many other elements outside of your home: decks or patios, walkways, outdoor entertainment spaces, outdoor kitchens, parking areas, fences, and hardscapes–all contribute to the way your home presents itself to the world. If any of these elements are chosen without proper care, they can create a variety of problems, from lessening your home’s curb appeal to releasing toxic chemicals, increasing the likelihood of flooding and polluting the environment.

Exterior improvements are one proven way to enhance your home’s curb appeal. In addition to decks and patios, well-planned and colorful landscaping can offer added attraction value.

Here are 5 basic tips on ways to wisely invest in landscaping improvements:

1. Plush Lawns:

Perhaps the most value-added feature of a home’s curb appeal is a plush, well-manicured lawn. Find out what variety of grass grows best in your area. Be sure to adequately fertilize, and water your lawn regularly.

2. Seasonal Colors:

Be sure to plant a number of perennial plants and flowers. Add short-lived flowers each Spring for additional color.

3. Trees and Shrubs:

Well-placed trees and shrubs can make a huge difference in the allure of a home’s exterior. Check with your local nursery or give us a call to determine which trees grow best in your area and climate.

4. Consult with a Landscaping Designer:

A worthwhile investment is to utilize the services of a Landscape Designer. A professional designer can provide a well-conceived master plan that is custom to your property. You can elect to have the actual landscaping improvements performed by contractors, or simply do it yourself.

5. Pavers and Stepping Stones:

Another great feature used in landscaping are pavers and stepping stones. Design a walkway through your yard or garden using slate stones or colorful pavers. Add a small bench to create a quiet retreat for reading.