Plan for landscape maintenance What you need to know

1. www.knockinglive.com/plan-for-landscape-maintenance-what-you-need-to-know/www.knockinglive.com/plan-for-landscape-maintenance-what-you-need-to-know/ Plan for landscape maintenance: What you need to know Surprises are not welcome in landscape care. You shouldn’t immediately respond to a contractor or landscaper who finishes their work on your property. They have ideas and you have ideas. Before the first lawnmower is turned on, all stakeholders must be in agreement. You are responsible for creating a landscape management and maintenance plan. These are the 10 categories you can include in your plan. You should specify the products and practices you would like to see implemented. Your Landscaping History Landscape maintenance companies should be able to identify where you are coming from. Each property is unique. So detail your property’s history. Any historical documents or blueprints you might have, include them. You don’t have to write a book, but you can outline the following: What were your landscape maintenance methods like in the past What peculiarities of the property are causing you problems? Which landscapes have been successful? Are there any recent upgrades or renovations? What are your goals in terms of conservation, budget and aesthetics? 1/3

2. An Overview Of Soil A soil map will help ensure that your landscaper does not miss any soil that needs attention. What are your fertility and soil testing practices? How can you incorporate mulch? What are the topography and features of the landscape? How can you reuse topsoil in places? An in-depth overview of your soil is crucial as it is the foundation for everything else. Flower, Shrub and Tree Implementation and Care This section will be quite large so it is important to organize plants according to their water requirements. Your landscaping Geelong provider can help you select plants that require less water, are resistant to pests, and will thrive in your area. You maximize your efficiency by minimizing chemicals, mowing, pruning, and other tasks. Safety Requirements & Codes Your landscaper may have worked in your area, but no two properties will be the same. What are your safety procedures? What are your guidelines regarding mowing, pavement to-soil ratios and weeding, watering, fertilizing and the use of native species? Include any local standards that apply to your property in your plans. Landscape Hazards Landscapers will eventually discover stumbling stones through trial and error. You can help them do a great favor by indicating the stumbling points in advance. What dangers should they avoid What areas are most likely to accumulate debris and cause problems? What areas need to be repaired frequently? What seasonal problems are there? These hazards can be eliminated by your landscapers or contractors, if possible. Irrigation Ins & Outs Water is the foundation of almost everything your landscaper does. Even the best-laid plans can be improved. Which irrigation methods do you use? How can you reduce water consumption and waste? How can you monitor water flow and leaks? What parts of your water system can be managed remotely? What are your plans for irrigation system inspections and maintenance? You can save water by considering: Rain shut-off devices Flow sensors Automated irrigation systems Drip and soaker systems are low-flow emitters Evapotranspiration-based controllers Plants that are drought-tolerant or low-water-use Storm water management and re-use 2/3

3. Recycling and composting Your landscaping company should have as little impact as possible. What can they do with the waste and debris? What can they reuse or compost? Make sure you include your landscapers in any advanced recycling plans on your property. See Also: Landscape Construction Service: What Does It Include? Establishment Period Special Needs What extra care should you take when your landscape is up-to-date? Landscapes that are new require extra attention and supervision. Your landscapers will first need to replace any plants that aren’t suitable for the site. What is the best way to troubleshoot plants, drainage and public landscapes? Extra watering, weeding and mulching will be required for plants that aren’t yet deep rooted. The establishment process can take between two and five years. However, if done correctly, it will pay off for many decades. Weed Management It is easier to prevent than it is to fix. Your landscapers should partner with you to help you plant strong, pest-resistant communities. Crowd out weeds by planting healthier plants groups. In your plan, outline the entire pest and weed life cycle. What frequency and how many methods will you use to monitor for pests, diseases, and weeds in your garden? Keep a record of all control methods and their results for your landscaper. You must understand that pests and weeds can cause some damage, so establish your tolerance thresholds and plan your recourse if they exceed them. Sustainability Goals Your partner in sustainability will be the ideal landscape management company. Plant diseases and problems are often caused by over watering. How can your landscaper help make sure every drop of water counts? How can you all work together to make space for nature? You can reduce your water consumption and costs by allowing for more “wilder” areas around your property’s perimeter. You can gradually reduce landscaping on your property and add softer engineering. You can set clear sustainability goals and monitor their progress periodically. Tags: Landscaping Geelong 3/3