Long-time residents of the Pacific Northwest know that, in spite of our rainy reputation, we have some of the best weather in the country any time of year and outdoor living here just can’t be beat. Our summers are not too hot or too humid, fall is typically a riot of color and sunshine, and our winters are fairly mild, especially when compared to the long deep freezes the East and Midwest tend to endure. Yes, we do get our fair share of cold, wind and rain, but not enough to keep us from enjoying the outdoors – even in the heart of winter – which is why outdoor living spaces are such a hot commodity and a main feature of so many homes in the Pacific Northwest.(more…)
Ah, fall in the Pacific Northwest – the days are mild, the nights are crisp, the colors of nature are on full display and our lawns and gardens are giving one last hurrah before the rainy season sets in. Yes, the rains are coming, as they always do, but before you head indoors again, we suggest taking a moment to assess your lawn. How well did it stand up to the rain last year? (more…)
It’s September and while “back to school” gets all the attention, we all know summer is not really over. Those who have lived in the Pacific Northwest long enough know September often brings the best weather of the year! Days are still warm, but not too hot; nights are cool and crisp, but still pleasant; and our rainy season has not quite begun. It’s also not unusual for an extended summer to last weeks into October. For gardeners and landscapers especially, September is the last hurrah.(more…)
Portland landscapes are in full bloom this time of year, treating residents and visitors to an abundance of colorful and fragrant roses, fuchsia, and perennials. Landscapes need maintaining throughout summer’s high-growth season. If you’re planning out your midsummer gardening tasks, here’s a good list to get you started:(more…)
“Know the rules well, so you can break them effectively.” Did you know these wise words from the Dalai Lama apply to landscape design? Landscape design experts start with sound design principles as a foundation. They can then produce stunning designs knowing they may decide to break a few rules to accommodate their creative choices.(more…)
Humans throughout history have associated water with everything from peace, openness, wisdom, and depth, to balance, cleansing, healing, and salvation. There’s even scientific evidence to support the many benefits we get from being in or near water. If you’re looking to add a little Zen to your landscape, consider incorporating the element of water.(more…)
Summer is when the Pacific Northwest really shines. The vibrant colors, the cool mornings and the warm afternoons beckon us to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Sure, there are lots of festivals and concerts to attend, nearby mountains and beaches to enjoy, and exotic places to visit. But some of our most cherished memories are created when we host a great party or old fashioned barbeque for friends and family in our own beautiful backyard. (more…)
It’s finally spring in the Pacific Northwest! As the warmer weather invites us outdoors, a gentle breeze bathes our senses in the sweet smells of fresh garden blooms. We gaze across our verdant landscape and see...a thinning, brown patch smack dab in the middle of our lawn?? (more…)
Homeowners have a choice when it comes to residential maintenance. They can opt for a basic service that’s just that: mowing your lawn, blowing off any leaves, and little else. Professionals refer to these operations as “mow, blow, and go” because their business model depends on quantity over quality. Expertise and experience matters. Just because someone can build you a cabinet doesn’t mean you’d hire them to build your house. If excellence and quality service matters to you, you need a full-service landscaping maintenance company with a reputation you can trust.(more…)
