A Greensboro Landscaping Company Producing Magical Results

Greensboro landscaping

Greensboro landscapingA stunning garden makes a remarkable impression on the entire exterior of your home or business. Some real estate experts estimate a small investment in landscaping can yield over a 350% return when you sell your home. Yet, when it comes to keeping plants healthy, you need the help of an expert. Insects, diseases, and soil conditions can destroy your sod faster than you can repair it. When searching for a Greensboro landscaping company to handle all your lawn care needs, choose Landscape Solutions & Design, Inc.

Certainly, lawn care maintenance is a big part of what we do. However, we also can build you a hardscape, install outdoor lighting, or design a garden. In addition, we offer leaf removal, tree service, and in the winter, snow removal. We’re a full-service landscaping company offering maintenance, design, and construction for both residential and commercial properties.

Mowing, Trimming, And Edging

Mowing grass may seem a simple task, but done the wrong way could create a handful of lawn problems. For example, you don’t want to cut your grass too short. This makes it harder for the plant to produce food through photosynthesis. Furthermore, cutting grass too short increases its vulnerability to pests and diseases. Also, shorter grass allows sunlight to reach weed seeds helping them to germinate. Typically, you only want to cut off 1/3 of the grass blade.

Lush, green lawns with a sharp, manicured look are eye-catching. To achieve this look, you need to trim and edge parts of your lawn. Trimming involves cutting the grass in places where your lawnmower can’t reach. Just as with mowing, you want to only cut ⅓ of the blade off. Additionally, you should cut the trimmed area the same length as the rest of the lawn. Be careful not to nick any nearby plants. These nicks can allow insects and diseases to infect your greenery.

Edging your lawn involves cutting back the grass overhanging onto your walkway, patio, and driveway. It’s the finishing touch producing a crisp, even border. However, making your edge too wide can invite weeds. A wide edge has too much exposed soil where weeds can thrive.

You probably want to do something else with your time than mow, trim and edge, but you may think a lawn care service is expensive. However, hiring a landscaping service saves you a tremendous amount of time. Plus, you don’t have to invest in all the equipment and the maintenance involved with the upkeep of these tools. Landscape Solutions is a reliable Greensboro landscaping company for all your lawn care needs.

Why Is Soil Condition Important?

For some of us, the extent of our lawn maintenance is mowing and trimming. However, in order to achieve a beautiful lawn, you need to perform other maintenance tasks. Adding fertilizer and soil nutrients keeps your grass healthy and lush.

Yet, you can’t begin to feed your lawn until you understand what your soil needs. Thus, the first step is to do a soil test. This test will reveal your soil’s pH, nutrient levels, and soil type.

Most grasses love the soil to have a pH level of between 5.8 and 7.2. Too high or too low soil pH can be disastrous for your lawn. If your soil is too acidic, you can apply lime to alter the acidity. While if your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur or an acidic fertilizer.

Over time, the pH of your soil will change. Therefore, you should test your soil every 3 or 4 years for optimal lawn health. For example, rain can leach away calcium from the soil. This loss of calcium creates a more acidic soil.

Additionally, your soil test will identify which nutrients are lacking in your soil. This information helps you to pick the right fertilizer for your lawn. Using a fertilizer with an overabundance of nutrients can “burn” your grass creating yellow and brown patches.

When you hire Landscape Solutions for your lawn care, we eliminate all the worries that come with maintaining a yard. We’ll apply the correct fertilizers, soil nutrients and herbicides for your yard at precisely the right time. Plus, we can handle other landscaping needs like applying mulch or leaf removal.

Fertilizing Needs of All Your Plants

Although your lawn is probably the most labor-intensive part of your landscape, let’s not forgot your other plants. Shrubs, perennials, and annuals all need fertilizing too. Each has different nutrient needs. Moreover, there are optimal times of the year to apply fertilizers. For instance, camellias, magnolias, azaleas, and rhododendrons like slightly acidic soil. While hydrangea, lilac, boxwood, and spirea prefer alkaline soil.

Plants need nutrients in a specific ratio to absorb what they need from the soil. A professional landscaper has the required knowledge of your plants’ needs. For example, an overabundance of potassium hinders plants from absorbing calcium. Moreover, giving a plant too much nitrogen will produce lots of foliage but few flowers.

Our knowledge about all growing things will keep your yard the envy of the neighborhood. Or if you have a business, your customers will love the appealing look of your landscape. With our high-quality service, you’ll never have to worry about your landscaping needs again.

We Can Also Fix Landscaping Headaches

So far, we’ve talked about the health of your plants. Yet, your topography, the physical features, of your yard can impact your usage and plant health. Uneven grading will cause water to run downhill creating erosion and drainage problems. Even slight changes in the height of the land can direct water flow.

Then, low-lying areas in your yard will collect this runoff. A continually wet area will suffocate the grass’s roots. Furthermore, these wet conditions will limit other types of plant growth as well.

One solution is to re-grade your yard. Eliminating slopes and leveling out land allows for proper drainage. Installing a retaining wall is another solution to manage run-off and erosion. Retaining walls also add visual interest and beauty to your property.

We’ll inspect your yard to determine the best option for your landscape based on your needs and budget. Our goal for every project is to give you a solution you’ll love.

How to Find A Good Landscape Design Team

Many different types of professionals work in the landscaping industry. Lawn care service, landscape designers, horticulturists, and landscape contractors are but a few. Each one has different levels of training and certifications.

Finding the right landscaping services begins with the people you know. Friends and family are a good place to start asking for suggestions. Additionally, you can ask your local nursery for referrals. Once you have a few names, check for reviews from previous clients. We’re proud that a large part of our business comes from referrals from satisfied customers. Read what many of them say here.

In North Carolina, the Landscape Contractor’s Board requires landscapers to pass an examination to receive licensing. To pass the exam, an individual must show knowledge in interpreting a landscape plan, horticulture practice, and landscape construction. When you hire a landscaping contractor, you get more than just lawn care service. Your contractor can construct hardscapes, design new gardens, and maintain the health of all your plants.

Next, check to see if the company has any other professional certifications. This evidences the landscaper’s commitment to keeping up with the industry’s best practices. At Landscape Solutions, we hold certifications from the John Deere University and Vista Professional Outdoor Lighting. We’re also a member of the Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute. This membership gives us current technical information for the design and installation of pavers and concrete materials. Of course, we have our license as a landscape contractor and a pesticide license.

How Much Will Lawn Care Services Cost?

Any type of landscaping, including lawn care services, will vary from property to property. The two big factors determining costs are your yard size and services needed.

Although it’s obvious to state, a larger yard takes more time to mow and will cost more. However, you also need to consider your trimming and edging needs. If you have a long meandering driveway that needs edging, your cost may be higher. Likewise, having large areas needing grass trimming may cost more.

Moreover, the lawn service you require will affect your price. Additional services such as weeding and feeding, overseeding, and aeration are necessary to keep your lawn healthy. However, some lawn care services may not include these in their maintenance costs. Thus, it’s always a good idea to get a detailed description of your particular maintenance plan.

Other Services We Provide

Although lawn care is a big part of our business, Landscape Solutions offers so much more. We can enhance your outdoor living space with many great amenities. Our design experts can take your ho-hum yard and transform it into a magnificent garden. If you can dream it, we can build it.

But that’s just only the beginning of what we can do. Our pergolas and cabanas can add some much-needed shade to your entertainment area. We can also build an outdoor kitchen with all the essentials. With everything within reach, you can entertain your guests while you cook.

Perhaps you’d prefer a fire pit or fireplace to extend the outdoor entertaining season. These structures can keep your guests warm on a chilly night while adding ambiance. And if you install a combination fireplace/pizza oven, you can also cook a wide variety of foods. Cooking in a pizza oven is a unique experience you can taste.

Furthermore, adding the right outdoor lighting can transform your home into a magical scene. Lights can accentuate landscape features and increase the usability of your outdoor space. We can install energy-efficient LED lighting wherever you want to make an area more attractive and inviting. Installing lighting around your business provides added security while making your customers feel safe.

Greensboro Landscaping for All Your Outdoor Needs

Fall, winter, spring, and summer, your lawn and garden require maintenance every season. It can be exhausting trying to keep up with all the tasks needed to keep your property attractive and healthy. Yet you can have a beautifully-manicured landscape and still have time for your family and hobbies. Hire a trusted Greensboro landscaping company used by homeowners and businesses alike, Landscaping Solutions & Design, Inc.

Our founder, Kostas Menegakis, has a passion for landscaping. But he also has a passion for people. Landscape Solutions & Design melds these two important attributes to ensure every project exceeds customers’ expectations.

We start with a free consultation during which we discuss your idea and budget. Moreover, you can see what your finished project will look like using our design software even before we break ground. Communication is very important to us, so we’ll continually give you updates especially if there are weather delays. Our goal is to provide excellent customer service and treat every customer like family.

We serve Greensboro, Summerfield, Archdale, Belews Creek, Winston-Salem, Lake Norman, and the surrounding areas. Snow removal, tree service, lawn care service, hardscape construction, and landscape design, we do it all. Interested? Let’s chat! Call us at 336-442-0160.

Residential Landscaping Services – From Blah To Impressive

residential landscaping services

residential landscaping servicesWho doesn’t love a lush, green expanse of grass surrounding their home? Americans sure do. We spend over $15.9 billion on lawn care and gardening services. Moreover, having a well-kept lawn helps maintain your home’s curb appeal and property value. But, with your job and running the kids to their activities, there just isn’t time to weed, fertilize, and mow. You may be considering using residential landscaping services to keep your turf healthy and trim. One of the best landscape contractors in the area is Landscape Solutions & Design, Inc.

Let us relieve you of your gardening duties! Offering both residential and commercial landscaping services, we serve many customers throughout the greater Piedmont area. We believe a good personal relationship with our clients is the key to providing an excellent experience. Combining your vision with our knowledge and experience will produce results beyond your expectations.

A Brief History of Lawns

How did we become so obsessed with bluegrass, ryegrass, and fescues? It started hundreds of years ago, during medieval times. The areas around castles were probably the earliest lawns. Cleared of trees and bushes, these grassy spaces gave guards an unobstructed view of visitors, including enemies. As time progressed, the wealthy land owners in Northwestern Europe cultivated grass around their homes. Lawns flourished as the local weather of the area was perfect for turfgrass.

Immigrants to America found native grasses wouldn’t produce the same tidy expanse of green as in English gardens. Moreover, English grasses couldn’t thrive in our American weather. Determined to replicate the beauty of cultivated lawns, gardeners began experimenting. They imported seeds from other countries to find one suitable for our climate. Over time, gardeners found a combination of seed that thrived within our borders.

Unfortunately, another problem existed. There was no easy way to keep the grass trim. Many estate owners maintained the grass length by hiring laborers to cut the lawn with scythes. Others allowed livestock to graze on their greens. Neither proved suitable for the common homeowner.

Then in 1830, an engineer from England received a patent for the first push lawnmower. Now, cutting grass required less manpower, thus lowering the cost of upkeep. However, it took until the early 1900s for companies to start producing gasoline-powered mowers. Mechanization made keeping a trim lawn even easier.

The changing American landscape in the early 1940s and ‘50s saw the rise of the subdivision and suburbia. Abraham Levitt, the father of suburbia, constructed homes on small plots of land surrounded by lawns, a new concept. People flocked to buy one of Levitt’s homes on Long Island. Some historians claim over 1,000 Levittown homes sold within a few hours. Nevertheless, these homes, surrounded by an oasis of green grass, transformed America’s yards.

Maintaining A Healthy Lawn Isn’t A DIY Project

Lush, healthy grass takes much more than watering and fertilizing. While it’s true these are important tasks, your lawn will still look sickly if the pH isn’t correct. Or if you have an insect infestation.

Therefore, a landscaper will start by taking a high-quality soil test. Most grasses need a pH between 5.8 and 7.2. When the pH lies outside of this range, grass cannot use the nutrients present in the soil. The presence of moss or certain types of weeds can indicate the need for lime to restore the pH balance. You can apply all the fertilizer you want, but if your pH is off, it’ll have little effect.

Once you have the pH of your lawn within range, you can add fertilizer. Generally, you should apply fertilizer several times per year. Moreover, the fertilizer should address the specific needs of your lawn. A professional, experienced lawn care service, like Landscape Solutions & Design, will know exactly which fertilizer to apply and when.

In the springtime, the soil temperature is key. 55° is the optimal temperature. Usually, the soil warms to this degree in late spring, between April and June. This is the time weeds begin actively growing and the best time to apply a weed-and-feed product.

Then, feeding your grass in the summer helps strengthen against drought and heat. Finally, fertilizing in the late summer/early fall prepares your grass for the upcoming winter months. This is also the time broadleaf weeds begin growing again so you’ll probably want to add a weed killer too.

Insect Infestation Can Also Destroy Your Lawn

You can correct the pH, apply fertilizer, and water, yet your grass can still have yellow or brown patches. Insect infestation is another problem that plagues many lawns. In addition, bugs can attract animals that will also destroy your turf.

Grubs are one of the most common lawn pests. They love to munch on the roots of your grass, killing off large sections. But grubs attract other pests that will also damage your lawn.

Moles feed on grubs, tunneling under your yard, pushing large amounts of dirt to the surface. Their tunnels attract voles which use the tunnels to eat your grass. Other animals such as raccoons, skunks, opossums, and birds will also destroy your lawn hunting for grubs.

Chinch bugs are another common lawn pest. These insects feed by sucking the moisture out of your grass blades. Yellow or brown spots that don’t respond to watering, may indicate a chinch bug infestation.

Additionally, armyworms, mole crickets, fire ants, spittlebugs, and a few other critters can cause extensive damage to your lawn. Without knowing which pest is destroying your yard, you won’t know how to properly treat it. Plus, applying pesticides requires careful handling. Thus, you’ll want a qualified lawncare service with the appropriate certifications to apply pesticides.

What to Do About Those Exposed Tree Roots

Undoubtedly, trees are an important landscaping element. They provide privacy, shade, beauty, and can lower your cooling costs. But, when your favorite tree starts showing its roots in your lawn, it can create a nuisance. Not only are exposed tree roots hard to mow around, but they’re also a tripping hazard.

Maple, beech, and willow trees are very susceptible to exposed roots. However, erosion and hard compacted soil can also cause many tree roots to surface. Whatever the cause, you need to be careful in your solution so as not to damage the tree.

Mulch always produces a good result. Covering tree roots with mulch insulates them and discourages foot traffic. An attractive arrangement of rocks is another good option.

While you may be considering covering the tree roots with soil, this isn’t the best choice. Most likely, the tree roots will resurface within a few years. Additionally, adding too much soil may deprive the tree of needed oxygen and water. Thus, in trying to fix your landscaping problem, you may harm your tree.

An experienced landscaper can help design a solution that looks beautiful and protects your tree. At Landscape Solutions & Design we’ve helped many homeowners find an option that works for them. Maintaining the health of your plants while providing the most usable space is just one of our specialties.

How to Find the Right Lawncare Team

Just as not all landscaping companies are alike, no two homeowners have the same landscaping needs. Thus, the first step in hiring a landscape service is deciding what type of residential landscaping services you want. Landscape services range from lawn care to landscape design and installation.

Once you’ve determined your needs, then it’s time to sort through the contractors who can perform the services you want. Residential landscaping services vary greatly. Some companies only maintain your grass. Others are landscape architects that can transform your outdoor living space with lighting and hardscapes.

After determining your needs, check to make sure the landscape contractor has a license from the state of North Carolina. Pesticide treatment to eliminate pests from your turf requires a license as well. Memberships in trade associations and certifications are indicators of a high level of knowledge and competency in their field.

Both landscaping and lawncare workers experience a higher rate of injuries than other professions. Your landscape contractor should carry both business liability insurance and workers’ compensation to protect you from potential lawsuits.

Good communication skills are a must and you should feel comfortable with your landscaper. Your contractor should specify the exact details of your project in a well-written contract. Additionally, your landscaper should show you how the final design will look before starting the work. Finally, ask for several references and be sure to follow up on them

How Much Will Residential Landscaping Services Cost?

Landscape service pricing is as varied as the work itself. Even with the same type of job like mowing the grass, certain factors can affect your cost. For example, a larger yard will take longer to mow than a smaller one thus increasing labor costs.

Other factors such as your soil type will affect your pricing too. In North Carolina, we have over 50 different types of dirt. If you have heavy clay dirt, you’ll want a grass with a tough root system that grows deep. While a sandy soil requires turf with roots that absorb water and nutrients effectively in the quick-draining soil. Your choice of seed product ranges in cost from about $3 to $10 per pound.

The topography of your yard is a big factor in pricing as well. A steeply sloped yard or a wooded lot all need thoughtful consideration. Sometimes these factors make a yard harder to work on. Other times, you may need to plan for additional services to control erosion or runoff.

Then too, projects vary considerably in cost. Building a hardscape such as a retaining wall is much more expensive than rejuvenating a lawn. The best way to determine the cost of any landscaping service is to ask for an estimate.

At Landscape Solutions & Design, Inc. we provide all our customers with a free consultation. We’ll view your property, listen to your ideas, and develop an option based on your needs and budget. Then we’ll present you with a detailed cost estimate with a time frame for completion.

Transform Your Yard into An Oasis of Beauty

Now ’tis spring, and weeds are shallow-rooted; Suffer them now and they’ll o’ergrow the garden.

William Shakespeare, Henry VI

Neglecting our yards at almost any time of the year can have disastrous results. Once you let weeds gain a foothold, they’re difficult to remove. Applying the right weed-and-feed to your turf at the correct time will keep your lawn green and lush. But, with your hectic schedule, you often miss these key dates. Using the residential landscaping services of Landscape Solutions & Design will keep your yard the envy of the neighborhood.

Serving the greater Piedmont area, Lake Norman and beyond, we offer a wide range of landscaping services. Lawn maintenance, garden design, and construction of hardscapes are some of our services. We can handle hardscape projects from a small water feature to a retaining wall, to a fully-equipped outdoor kitchen. Our company has been in business for over 15 years and our team focuses on improving your property to increase both the value and the curb appeal of your home or business. Kostas, our owner, is a hands-on professional who ensures that every project meets or exceeds our clients’ expectations.

We’ve transformed properties all over central North Carolina and we can improve yours too. Call us at 336-442-0160 to set up an appointment. Remember, fall is one of the best times to kill weeds before they overtake your garden!

A Winston Salem Landscaping Company Transforming Property

winton salem landscaping

winton salem landscapingYour yard is an integral part of your home. Its appearance can have a dramatic impact on the overall value of your property. Flower beds overrun with weeds can lower your home’s curb appeal. In fact, the condition of your landscaping can affect your home’s value by as much as 15%. But with so much to do and very little time, you’ve neglected your yard. When you’re looking for a Winston Salem landscaping company to resurrect your unkempt plot, call Landscape Solutions & Design, Inc.

We’ve been beautifying areas of the Triad for over 15 years. Serving both commercial and residential customers, we offer a variety of landscaping services. Grading, drainage, hardscapes, and landscape lighting installation are some of the projects we handle with ease. Additionally, we offer landscape maintenance and lawn service to keep your plants healthy and your yard looking great.

What’s the Difference Between Landscaping and Lawn Care Services?

Lawn care service professionals work at maintaining the health of your turf. This includes mowing, edging, fertilizing, weeding, aerating, and dethatching your grass. Additionally, services may include debris removal such as leaves. Some lawncare companies may even do some light shrub and tree pruning.

Whereas, a landscaper can do all those tasks and more. Landscaping services involve the design and transformation of your outdoor living space. Hardscapes, water features, and outdoor lighting are all part of a landscaper’s portfolio. With overall function and design in mind, a landscaper can transform your property from typical to breathtaking.

Some of The Many Services A Landscaper Provides

Today’s busy homeowners appreciate the convenience and professionalism a landscaper adds. A professional landscaper can considerably affect the impact of a property’s curb appeal. Our team of professionals specializes in many different types of outdoor projects.

Maybe you have an unusable backyard due to sloping. Not only is a slope unsuitable for many outdoor activities, but erosion and runoff can be a problem. We can build a retaining wall making it a central part of your outdoor space. Moreover, you’ll have level areas for both recreation and planting.

Water features are also popular landscaping features. The soothing sound and motion of water make a relaxing, peaceful spot in your yard. In today’s world, everyone needs a bit more tranquility! We can build you a unique pond, waterfall, fountain, or water garden creating new interest in your backyard.

Perhaps you’d like an outdoor kitchen to capture the luxury of alfresco dining. This type of outdoor living space also creates additional areas for entertainment. Or maybe you want to connect areas of your yard with a walkway of concrete pavers. In addition, we can build fire pits, driveways, and patios.

Finally, highlight your home’s best architectural features with outdoor lighting. Strategically placed outdoor lighting can also increase security around your home. Plus, lighting extends the use of your outdoor spaces after sundown. Additionally, lighted pathways and landscape lighting offer safety for those walking on your property.

Moreover, there are also many more services we can perform for you. Tree removal, mulching, fencing, and pressure-washing of your hardscapes are more types of maintenance work we do for our clients. We can even remove snow from your driveway or parking lot in the winter.

Costs of Landscaping Services

There are varying levels of landscaping services. You can schedule weekly maintenance tasks to keep your gardens healthy and beautiful. Or, you can hire us for a specific project such as building an outdoor kitchen or retaining wall.

Routine maintenance services provide ongoing care of your outdoor space. Remember, your lawn needs care year-round to keep it healthy and attractive. Prices will vary by the services included and the size of your yard. A basic package may include mowing, edging, and fertilizing. Added services may include aeration, mulching, and pruning. Companies usually offer a variety of options, so be sure to ask what’s included in a plan before you sign up.

In the case of a specific outdoor project, price is dependent on the type of design, materials, and scope. Access to the site and soil type can impact the overall costs as well. Specific prices are difficult to determine unless you have a finalized design.

Let’s look at an example. You want to install an outdoor kitchen area. Ideas range from a simple grill and prep area to kitchens with ovens, refrigeration, and plumbing. Some have full-scale dining amenities as well as welcoming spaces with outdoor seating. Moreover, your choice of material affects your price. Even though materials must withstand the harsh outdoor elements, you still have options. Countertops can be stainless steel, granite, soapstone, or concrete, each with their own price structure.

We offer free estimates for any of our projects. Simply give us a call at 336-442-0160 to set up a consultation. After reviewing your property and listening to your concerns, we present you with a detailed proposal. Our mission is to provide a solution to your landscaping problem that you’ll love. If you want changes to your landscape that involve designing new areas for gardens, etc., we have state-of-the-art software to show you several plans. This is helpful in guiding you to make the right decision to enhance your property and bring your vision to life.

Seasons May Change, But There are Always Landscaping Needs

Just as seasons change, so do your landscaping tasks. In fact, you need to tackle some of the important tasks all year round for healthy blooms. With the imminent arrival of autumn, take care of landscape chores now for a healthy spring garden.

In autumn, as perennials start to turn brown and die back, you need to do some pruning. When you cut back perennials, they perform better in the spring and summer. Be sure to remove all dead or dying foliage. Not only is this material unsightly, but it can also harbor pests and diseases.

You may also want to start planning for next year. Spring will arrive in your garden with a burst of color if you plant spring-flowering bulbs now. Daffodils, jonquils, hyacinth, crocus, and tulips are just some of the flowers you can plant in the fall.

Now is the perfect time to plant some perennials too. Perennials love the cool moist weather giving them great conditions for root establishment. Salvia, scabiosa, bee balm, coreopsis, daylilies, and hostas are just some of the many perennials to plant in the autumn. Plus, now you may be able to find some great discounts on out-of-bloom perennials.

Are some of your perennials starting to overtake too much garden space? Most perennials need division every 3 years to avoid crowding. Fall is the perfect time to divide spring and summer blooming perennials. Generally, autumn weather is cool and wet, providing plenty of hydration and reducing plant stress.

What About Your Lawn Maintenance?

Don’t forget about your turf! Between the heat, lack of rain, and the kiddie pool in the backyard, your lawn has suffered. Fall is the time to reseed, fertilize, and give your grass some much-needed care.

Take a look at your lawn and reseed any bare patches. Additionally, during the hot, dry summer, grassroots suffered. Now is also the best time to apply fertilizer to encourage growth. Moreover, autumn is a great time to kill weeds such as dandelion and clover.

Over the summer, your lawn underwent soil compaction from your riding mower or heavy repeated foot traffic. Compacted soil can prevent nutrients from reaching the roots and allow certain weeds to gain a footing. Aerating your lawn will create a passage for your fertilizer to reach the roots.

Autumn days also cause deciduous trees to lose their leaves. As leaves cover your grass, they block the blades from receiving sunlight. Neglect raking leaves for too long and your grass underneath will die. Additionally, leaves hold moisture leading to lawn fungi.

Without regular maintenance, your lawn can become overgrown with weeds. A wet autumn can lead to the early germination of fall weeds as your lawn is trying to recuperate from summer. Some weeds even germinate in the winter. Fail to address your weed problem and they’ll soon choke out your grass.

Maintaining your landscape takes a lot of time and work. Think of the time that you can spend with your family instead of mowing, fertilizing, and weeding. Let us do all the hard work for you. If you need Winston Salem landscaping, call Landscape Solutions & Design, Inc. at 336-442-0160. We can set up a lawn maintenance plan today before weeds take over your yard.

How to Find A Landscaper

Finding a landscaper is similar to other types of contractors. You’ll want to see reviews, references, and past projects of prospective landscapers. Moreover, a reputable company should have an office and usually a website.

When looking at previous projects done by the landscaper, evaluate them for uniqueness and appeal. Your yard should show originality, distinction, and style. For both residential and commercial property, the landscaping should be functional as well as attractive.

Then there are the little details which can reveal much about the company. Punctuality, creativity, and a passion for the job are important characteristics. Additionally, you’ll be working with the landscaper for several weeks or months. Therefore, it’s important you feel comfortable with the crew.

You can also check the Better Business Bureau. The BBB rates businesses according to their interactions with customers. While BBB ratings are not a guarantee of a business’s reliability or performance, it’s an additional evaluation tool. Combined with reviews and references, you’ll get an overall picture of the company.

Additionally, be sure the company carries proper insurance and is bonded. Landscaping companies should carry workers’ compensation to cover workers injured while working on your property. Furthermore, the company must have liability insurance. Finally, a bond will compensate you should the landscaper fail to complete the job.

Most landscapers offer satisfaction guarantees. But what about warranties? Since plants can suffer shock and die, most landscapers will offer a one-year warranty on them. In addition, many landscapers offer a 5-year warranty for structures.

Winston Salem Landscaping Services for All Your Needs

Yard work is a never-ending chore. Wouldn’t you much rather be doing something else? Let Landscape Solutions take care of all your lawncare and landscape design problems. We can maintain your lawn and gardens, install walkways, driveways, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, and so much more. If you can imagine it, we can create it.

Undoubtedly, experience and certifications are important when hiring a landscaper. We have both. Since 2005, we’ve been designing and maintaining gardens. Moreover, we’re a NC-licensed landscaper. But we also hold a NC pesticide license that enables us to manage outdoor pests. Furthermore, we have certifications from John Deere Landscaping University and Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute. Our certifications verify our skills and demonstrate our ability to perform to the highest standard.

However, all this means nothing unless you’re happy with the finished product. From our initial consultation through to the completion of your project, we provide a very personalized experience. Our goal is to deliver your vision while prioritizing customer service in every interaction.

Don’t just sit there dreaming about a beautiful new yard! Call us at 336-442-0160 to schedule your free consultation. We service both commercial and residential properties in the Piedmont Triad, Raleigh, Charlotte, Lake Norman, and the surrounding area. A beautiful yard can be a place of peace and tranquility. Let’s begin on yours today.

Should I Find a Sod Installer Near Me or Do It Myself?

sod installer near me

sod installer near meIf your lawn has seen better days or you’re planning to change your landscaping, you may be considering the addition of sod. Before you take on this project yourself, consider that sod installation can be trickier than you think. In most cases, it makes sense to hire a professional sod installer near me to take on your new sod project. Here’s what every homeowner and business owner should know before taking on a sod project.

 

Sod has a Shelf Life

First, it helps to understand what sod is and why this process is so different than planting grass seed. Also called turf or turf grass, sod is grass that is already grown. It is held together by the root system and comes in large rolls from a sod farm. Some companies sell sod pre-cut into smaller sheets. Most sod comes with a thin layer of biodegradable material to help the grass stay together until it reaches your yard. However, a sod company might also sell sod with just the roots holding it together, depending on the grass species.

Because this is a living product, sod has a shelf life. You need to install it quickly or it will never take root. In the best-case scenario, sod installation takes place within 24 hours of the sod being cut. Sod needs to be installed the same day you receive it.

Even if the sod still looks green and alive, it may never take root if it sits around too long. It’s one of the best reasons to hire a sod installation team instead of doing the job yourself. Our team here at Landscape Solutions & Design Inc. can install your new sod quickly, so there is a very high chance of successful rooting and growth.

If you speak to a sod installation company that will not get the job done the same day the sod is delivered, run! Every sod installation expert knows that sod needs to be installed as quickly as possible after it is cut. Otherwise, it has a lower chance of taking root. If this happens, you’ll have to cut out the old sod and start over, which can be an expensive process.

Not All Grass Will Work for Your Lawn

We tend to think of grass as a single plant species, but there are actually dozens of different types of grasses. Here in North Carolina, we have a relatively mild environment, so many grass species work well for lawns. However, the exact type of grass we recommend for you depends on a number of factors, including the following:

  • How lush/full you like your lawn to look
  • Other aesthetic preferences such as color
  • Amount of foot traffic expected
  • Soil type
  • Water/drainage expectancy and challenges
  • Your maintenance and mowing preferences
  • Amount of sun and shade in the area of grass cover

Bermuda grass, centipede grass, zoysia grass, fescue grass, and Kentucky bluegrass are all popular options here in North Carolina. You can also choose a grass blend, which is made from multiple different types of grasses. We’ll help you choose the grass species that will work best for your specific lawn.

The key is to work with a sod installation expert who can recommend the best for your situation. No matter how much research you do, nothing beats experience in the sod-laying field. We have first-hand experience with what works and what doesn’t. We’ll never recommend a sod product that we wouldn’t feel comfortable installing in our own yard.

You May Need to Grade before Installing Sod

Keep in mind that laying sod isn’t as easy as unrolling the grass and going back to your busy life. Before you install the sod, you may need to grade your lawn. Not only will this give you a nicer surface in the end, but it will also prevent drainage problems.

“Grading” is the process of leveling the ground around your home. You generally want it to be flat, with a very gentle slope away from your home. However, in some cases, depending on the natural features of your lot, your yard may need to be graded differently.

One of the most common reasons homeowners have issues with their lawns is that they don’t have proper drainage. Grading solves this problem, since water runs downhill.

Depending on the size of your lawn and the type of soil, grading can be back-breaking work. That’s where we come in. Not only can we provide the best grading for your new sod, but we’ll also ensure water properly drains away from your home to prevent damage. Sod is an investment in your home and property and you want to install it properly to receive the best return for your investment…a healthy, attractive, long-lasting lawn!

Here are some indications that your yard is not currently graded well:

  • You can see dips and small hills in your lawn, instead of a nice gentle slope.
  • Large puddles or wet areas collect in certain areas of your lawn.
  • You have issues with water damage or rot on the wood found on your home’s exterior, especially near the ground.
  • After a rainstorm, small streams or water are eroding trenches in the soil.
  • Patches of dead grass are forming, which can be an indication of fungal growth from too much water.

All new construction needs grading work. Most yards also need to be regraded over time. If you want a beautiful lawn, this is simply a step you cannot skip.

Proper grading will also provide drainage away from your flower beds or other areas of your lawn, such as a garden shed. Over time, water can cause a lot of damage. It’s much more cost-effective to ensure your lawn drains properly from the start.

We can also help with grading, sod installation, and landscape design for your new build. We’ll work with your new home contractors to come up with a landscaping plan, budget, and schedule that works for everyone.

Ground Prep and Follow-Up Maintenance is Key

Once the ground is graded properly, your soil needs to be prepped for sod installation. We’ve seen people simply unroll the new sod over existing grass. Sure, you can do this, but don’t be surprised when most of the sod dies over the next few weeks. You’ll have to remove and replace it again and again unless you properly prepare the soil. When you call a sod installer near me, you will have the benefit of the experience and expertise that is required for a successful result.

We’ll start by ensuring that your new lawn will get the proper nutrients. Soil might seem like “just dirt,” but in actuality your soil might be very different from even your neighbor’s soil. Some soil is sandy, and other soil is rocky. If water has been running into your yard, it could have been depositing certain nutrients, which can be helpful or harmful depending on the type of grass. Our analysis of your soil will help determine what type of grass is best. We’ll also add fertilizer to deposit nutrients, if needed.

Regardless of the type of soil found in your yard, it needs to be fairly loose for the grass root to take hold. In other words, we’ll till the soil so it isn’t hard packed. We have machines that help us loosen packed chunks of soil and remove rocks. Doing this work by hand can be backbreaking. It’s a huge advantage to hire professionals with the appropriate equipment.

Before laying your new sod lawn, we’ll also wet the soil properly to help the roots establish. This ensures that your sod has the best chance of survival, no matter what mother nature has in store. Yes, we can install sod even during the hottest part of summer and even if it hasn’t rained recently.

Don’t forget that your sod needs maintenance until it takes root. We can complete your maintenance work for you or we can give you step by step instructions. The most crucial part is ensuring that your sod gets enough water. The watering needs vary for different types of grasses. However, fescue, bluegrass, zoysia, Bermuda grass, blends, and almost all other types of grasses need to be watered several times per day until the sod takes root.

Laying Sod is Not a One-Person Job

As you might suspect, laying sod is not typically a one-person job. Yes, you can do it by yourself, but you have to work quickly and be able to dig, lift, bend, and more. It’s quite the workout.

If you are thinking about installing sod yourself, we recommend having at least one friend or family member to help. Remember, you need to install sod quickly in order for it to take root and successfully start to grow. Most people with average or large lawns need a team of 3-6 people to get the job done. Even if you love landscaping and are in good shape, this is a big project.

Instead, consider searching for a sod installer near me to complete the job professionally. Our team has experience installing sod and taking on other lawn care projects. We can take on the project from start to finish, including all grading, soil analysis and preparation, installation, and maintenance.

A Sod Installer Near Me Will Give You the Best Chance at Success

At the end of the day, if your goal is to enjoy a beautiful lawn, your best bet is to hire a professional team for sod installation service. Here’s what you can expect when you work with Landscape Solutions & Design:

  • Fully-licensed and insured technicians who treat your home and lawn with respect
  • Experienced lawn care professionals who have been serving the Triad to Lake Norman area and beyond since 2005 and decades of experience in lawn care
  • A high attention to detail – we’ll maximize your curb appeal through our perfectionist mentality
  • Honest and transparent pricing, so you don’t have to worry about a price quote inflating by the end of the project
  • Workers who show up on time and complete your lawn care project according to our agreed-upon timeline
  • Great communication, so you always know exactly what is going on with your project and can get answers to any questions you may have
  • A detailed presentation of your options, which allows you to pick the perfect solution for your yard and budget

Your home and lawn are important to us. Don’t settle for a sod installation expert that treats you like just another number. We’re a top sod installation company because we treat you like family.

If you’re ready to get started with a free consultation, click here to learn more. We have three teams in the Triad area ready to take on your project!

Yes, We Do Commercial Landscaping Too!

Your home is important to us, but so is your business. Around 40% of our customers are commercial. Your grass makes a first impression on people as they drive up to your storefront or office building. Why not let us help you make the best first impression possible?

In addition to laying sod, we can also add mulch, complement your building with the right flowers and other plants, provide ongoing all-season maintenance including snow removal, create hardscapes such as fountains, add retaining walls, install lighting and irrigation, and more. Our residential hardscapes include walkways, driveways, outdoor kitchens and water features. Click here to learn more about our full line of commercial outdoor maintenance and landscape services. Or, give us a call at 336-442-0160.

Professional Sod Installation in the Piedmont Triad

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Professional sod installation to bring your yard back to life

Have you noticed any brown patches in your grass lately? Perhaps your lawn is looking a little less lush than it used to? There is a chance you need to look into professional sod installation. Landscape Solutions and Design is a professional, reliable landscaping company with years of experience in laying sod. In order to get your yard back to the pristine lushness you are accustomed to, you need our help. Once a yard has begun to die, it can be a difficult process to bring it back to life. While laying sod may seem like something that can be done by the homeowner, we assure you it is worth the time to hire a team of experts. There are many elements to consider before choosing the appropriate grass type for your unique soil conditions. Installing the wrong grass, or making a mistake in scheduling the project, can result in an expensive job to make corrections or start over. Landscape Solutions and Design has spent over 10 years serving the Triad and its lawns. Our experts understand the value of carefully assessing the soil and sunlight conditions before choosing the sod for your property. If your lawn is looking a bit on the frail side, call us today.

What is sod?

When some people think of restoring their lawn, they immediately think of laying grass seed. This is a much less effective process than laying sod. Grass seed needs the soil it is sown into to already be stable enough to grow, which is often not the case. Grass seed can fail depending on things such as time of year and weather the day you plant it. Sod, on the other hand, is essentially grass that is already growing. Taking a section of sod and laying it over your existing yard will give you a fuller, healthier yard in hardly any time at all. Sod is also very easy to care for once a professional has installed it, as it requires much less water than growing grass from seeds. If you are looking for an easy, reliable method to restore your yard, sod is absolutely the only way to go.

What are problems that non-professional installers can run into?

When installing sod, there are a few easy mistakes that an inexperienced installer can make. The biggest one is that the ground must be prepped for sod to healthily take root. A non-professional will have much more trouble recognizing whether or not the ground is ready for sod to be installed. Much like grass seed, time of year and weather can also play a factor (though granted not as large a one) in whether your sod takes root. Simply put, professional sod installation is the only way to go if you want the guarantee of your lawn returning to its former self. If you are sick of looking at those horrid brown patches in your yard, it is time to call Landscape Solutions and Design.

Landscape Solutions and Design can help

Since 2006, Landscape Solutions and Design has proudly served residents of the Triad and surrounding areas. Our mission has always been to deliver the absolute best yard work services, including landscaping and hardscaping. For any outdoor need, you can rest assured that Landscape Solutions and Design will work quickly and efficiently to give you the yard you have always wanted. Call for your free consultation, and let’s get started on the yard you deserve.

​Professional Sod Installation for Any Yard

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Residential-Sod-InstallationProfessional sod installation cannot be beat

Sod installation is not as easy as it sounds. While it may seem like laying sod is simply putting down seeding materials, there is much more to it than that. If you attempt to lay sod at the wrong time of year, for example, you are in for disappointment. It is always best left to the experts to ensure proper weather patterns are followed. If you notice your yard is not as green or full as it used to be, do not try to take matters into your own hands. Trust a group of experts to install sod in your yard that is sure to deliver the results you want. Trust the experts. Trust Landscape Solution and Design.

Why is sod installation necessary?

Sod installation is a quick fix for any yard that is drying or dying out. Installing sod adds a layer of material for grass to root into and grow from. This may seem simple, right? In fact, there is even an old addage illustrating how boring and easy it is to “just watch grass grow!” Actually, however, that could not be further from the truth. Sod installation may seem easy enough, but if not done carefully and mindfully, you could end up with nothing but wasted time and money. Your yard deserves to be as well-kept and loved as the interior of your home. That’s why it’s important to trust the professionals at Landscape Solutions and Design to make sure the job is done right.

When is it time to install sod?

Look at your yard. Are there several patches of unsightly, dead brown grass? Perhaps your yard once was lush, but recently you have noticed it withering. Or have you noticed these patches before, and attempted to seed them with no result? If your yard seems to be putting up a fight against new grass growth, it’s possible that you have been going about it all wrong. It is easy to assume that, since we think of grass as being resilient, it is easy to grow. Unfortunately, as we have stated, that is not the case. In fact, getting grass to grow can be quite difficult and time consuming.

What makes sod installation so complicated?

Many factors must be considered. Things like soil type and how well your yard is irrigated can affect the rates of growth. Weather patterns, both rain and sun, are also important to consider. Dedicating time and energy to following these patterns may also seem easy, but trust us, it is not. That’s why it’s always left best to the professionals. Our experts are specially trained to notice different nuances in soil and weather patterns for each yard we work on. Save yourself the time and stress. When your yard is behaving badly, call us to get it back in to shape.

Landscape Solutions and Design is the premier landscaping service in the Triad

Hiring only the most highly trained professionals, Landscape Solutions and Design has built a reputation for excellence. Years of experience in all types of landscaping, we are proud to serve such a wide array of customers in many different parts of the state. If you live in the Piedmont Triad, Raleigh, Lake Norman or surrounding areas, you are in luck. When you notice your yard is in need of a little pick-me-up, we are only a phone call away.

Sod Installation – How a Yard Can Immediately Benefit

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Having sod installed at your home or business is the epitome of instant gratification. Deciding to totally transform your landscaping involves a lot of work and hassle. This is why you definitely do not want to end up with straw all over your lawn. With a sod installation you do not have to worry about all the fuss and mess of the straw.

Why you should consider sod installation

Sod is basically a living grass carpet, so it immediately adds that beautiful green color to your lawn. A new piece of sod is about two inches thick. To install it, it is simply rolled out directly onto your prepared lawn.

The best part of a sod installation is that the grass is already growing and thriving. This means that there really is no waiting around to have that beautiful lawn you desire. Instead of waiting weeks and months for a full, lush, green lawn, choose to have sod installed. This will allow you to be able to enjoy the results instantly.

Choose Landscape Solutions & Design for your sod installation

Maybe you are renovating a home for resale or you have a grand opening for your new business? Perhaps the lawn does not look great but time is running out? Let the pros at Landscape Solutions & Design install sod for you. We guarantee that nobody will ever know it was a last-minute effort. With a quick sod installation you will see your property go from bare and boring to beautiful in a matter of hours!

Call our team of sod experts today and let us fill you in on just how easy it can be to have the lawn of your dreams almost instantly. You can get in touch with us now by filling out our online contact form.