Landscape contractors assist in any activity that changes the design or features of different properties. Contractors will deal with maintenance as well as irrigating, mowing or adding mulch to gardens and lawns. These horticulturists will help with retaining walls as well as most plant architecture and any paving or redesign that must occur due to erosion. Landscapers can assist in edging, as well as planting flowers or installing lights to accentuate your yard or garden. Pavers can assist with patios or can help with sprinkler systems. Landscaping contractors may also look to give ideas for the design of yards or other parts of commercial or residential land. Understanding a number of popular terms for landscape contracting may help in attaining a designer that will do the job well.
Ecoscaping - A means by which landscape architecture is considered in a more sustainable and nature friendly design. This holistic approach to land use may include rainwater harvesting, adding trees and minimizing pesticide use, and creating outdoor objects, such as a trellis, that works in harmony with the land. Irrigation plays a huge part in assuring growth.
Horticulture - This is the process of preparing soil for the planting of cuttings, tubers and seeds. This often refers to gardening on a smaller scale, compared with agriculture.
Landscape Engineering - By applying mathematics and science to landscaping, one can shape land and waterscapes. This is used to create anthropogenic landscapes. Debris must be cleared away a lot of the times, and pavers might even be brought in to get work done.
Arboriculture - A study of planting, care and the removal of individual trees, shrubs, vines and other such plants. Mulch will come in handy with for caring for these many plants.
Our mission is to advance the profession of landscape design and promote the recognition of landscape designers; our members adhere to a code of professional standards, encourage continuing education, and more.
Landscape contractors can turn any lawn into a lush and beautiful garden. When choosing a landscaper, home or business owners should already have a plan in mind for their lawn area, including any particular plants they would like to incorporate into the design, hardscaping elements like water features and paths made with pavers, and an idea of a lighting scheme. With these ideas in mind, homeowners will be in a better position to appraise potential landscape contractors and choose the one with experience to execute their plan.
Not all yard care firms handle all types of jobs. Some are skilled at doing the heavy work, like building retaining walls, garden edging and mulching and installing patios, while others specialize in planting flowers and mowing and the maintenance of properties. One of the best ways to learn about the contractors in your area is to speak with your neighbors. Approach those who have gardens or yard design elements that you admire. These recommendations will allow you to gauge the quality of local businesses, and compile a list of those with whom you should follow up.
Before any big outdoor horticulture job, contact at least three companies for an estimate. In order to get an accurate assessment of the job, explain the landscape architecture in which you are interested. Make sure to include any materials that will be needed, such as mulch or pavers to minimize erosion, and discuss whether new soil will have to be added to a garden or if an irrigation or sprinkler system will be required. These chores, along with the removal of debris, can all add to the cost of the job.
After estimates have been gathered and references have been checked, homeowners will be able to leave the work of designing and maintaining their lawn to the professionals.