fbpx
Soil Types and Landscaping

Soil Types and Landscaping

by | Feb 5, 2024 | Gardening, Irrigation, Maintenance, Shrubs, Softscaping, Trees

Landscaping that not only is not only beautiful but healthy depends heavily on the quality of the soil that provides a landscape’s foundation. As in most places, Southwestern Ontario’s distinct regional climate and geological conditions shape the native soils. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between soil types and landscaping, delve into the characteristics of Southwestern Ontario soils, and discuss how homeowners can improve soil conditions in their own landscapes.

The Significance of Soil in Landscaping

Soil serves as the lifeblood of any garden, influencing plant health, growth, and overall ecosystem balance. Its physical, chemical, and biological properties contribute to water retention, nutrient availability, and microbial activity – all crucial factors for a flourishing landscape. Properly managed soil can enhance plant resilience, reduce erosion, and create a sustainable and visually appealing outdoor space.

Southwestern Ontario Soils

Amending soil for landscapingThe soils in Southwestern Ontario are diverse, shaped by various factors including climate, parent material, and topography. Common soil types include clay, loam, and sandy soils. Each soil type has unique characteristics that affect water retention, drainage, and nutrient availability.

Clay Soil

Clay soils are heavy and compacted, which allows them to retain water well. However, they can also result in poor drainage and aeration. To improve clay soil, adding organic matter such as compost can enhance its structure and drainage. Simply adding sand to dry soil can also improve drainage, as can adding garden lime. Clay soil comprises a significant proportion of the soils in our region.

Loam Soil

Loam soil is a well-balanced combination of sand, silt, and clay. It is ideal for gardening due to its excellent water retention and drainage properties. Regular addition of organic matter helps maintain its fertility.

Sandy Soil

Sandy soils consist of larger particles that drain quickly. However, they struggle to retain water and nutrients. Adding organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can improve water retention and fertility.

Best Plants for Different Soil Types

Soil types and qualitySelecting the appropriate plants for your soil type is crucial for a thriving landscape in Southwestern Ontario:

Clay Soil

  • Plants that tolerate wet conditions: Redtwig dogwood, summersweet, and cardinal flower
  • Drought-tolerant options: Russian sage, yarrow, and black-eyed Susan

Loam Soil

  • Versatile options: Daylilies, coneflowers, and ornamental grasses.
  • Shade-loving plants: Hostas, astilbes, and ferns.

Sandy Soil

  • Drought-tolerant plants: Lavender, sedum, and coreopsis.
  • Acid-loving plants: Azaleas, blueberries, and rhododendrons.

Even if you have soil that is unsuitable for a particular tree or plant you desire to include in your landscape, you don’t have to give up on the idea entirely. It will require some effort to amend the soil to adequately sustain the chosen specimen.

Amending Soil Conditions

soil types and landscapingHomeowners in Southwestern Ontario can proactively improve soil conditions to meet their landscaping needs. Here are some suggestions:

Adjusting Acidity

  • Test the soil pH using a home testing kit.
  • To increase acidity, incorporate organic matter like pine needles, peat moss, or sulfur.
  • To decrease acidity, introduce lime into the soil.

Improving Drainage

  • For clay soils, add organic matter, garden lime, or sand to enhance aeration and drainage.
  • For sandy soils, mix in compost to improve water retention.
  • Consider installing raised beds or French drains in poorly draining areas.

Homeowners in Southwestern Ontario can achieve a beautiful and sustainable outdoor space by understanding the unique characteristics of their soils and implementing thoughtful improvements. By selecting appropriate plants and maintaining healthy soil conditions, they can create a vibrant and resilient garden that enhances the beauty of their homes while positively contributing to the local ecosystem.

Compact Trees and Shrubs for Small Spaces

Compact Trees and Shrubs for Small Spaces

by | Jan 17, 2024 | Flowers, Foliage, Landscape Design, Shrubs, Softscaping, Trees

Transform your petite yard into a lush oasis with our top recommendations for compact trees and shrubs for small spaces in hardiness zones 5 and 6. We understand the challenges posed by these demanding climates. But with the right plant selection, you can cultivate a vibrant and inviting outdoor space that thrives. Discover the perfect options for small yards and narrow spaces in our guide below.

Dwarf Korean Lilac

In small yards, this compact lilac variety shines with fragrant blooms in a stunning lavender hue. It serves as an ideal focal point or a charming addition to borders.

The japanese maples is a compact tree that works well in a small yardJapanese Maple

The compact “Crimson Queen” Japanese maple is a stunning ornamental tree prized for its compact size and rich burgundy cut-leaf foliage. It belongs to the Aceraceae family and is a dwarf cultivar of the Japanese maple species. The Crimson Queen typically grows to about 6 to 8 feet high. Its spreading, cascading form creates an elegant and graceful appearance.

Compact Burning Bush

Add a burst of color to your small yard with the Compact Burning Bush, known for its fiery fall foliage. Its compact size and low maintenance make it a popular choice for tight spaces.

The Boxwood is an excellent choice for a small yard.Boxwood

The boxwood is a popular evergreen shrub that belongs to the Buxaceae family. It is widely cultivated for its dense foliage and compact growth habit  in landscaping and garden design. Boxwoods are versatile and known for their small, glossy, and leathery leaves.

Dwarf Balsam Fir

The Dwarf Balsam Fir is a variant of the balsam fir and is known for its compact size and dense growth habit. The dwarf balsam fir typically reaches a height of about 3 to 6 feet and has a pyramidal shape with short, soft dark green needles.

rhododendrons are relatively compact and add bursts of colour to small backyard gardensRhododendrons and Azaleas

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, these plants are admired for their compact growth habit. They typically form dense, rounded bushes with a well-branched structure. This makes them ideal for creating hedges, borders, or even standalone focal points. Their compact nature allows them to fit well in smaller gardens or confined spaces. And they provide a burst of color and greenery without overwhelming an area. It’s easy to maintain and shape these flowering shrubs through pruning, enabling gardeners to control their size and promote healthy growth.

Weeping Pussy Willow

With its graceful weeping branches and early spring catkins, the Weeping Pussy Willow brings whimsy and charm to small yards without overwhelming the space.

compact trees and shrubs for small spaces hydrangea Compact Hydrangea

‘Little Lime,’ a smaller version of the popular ‘Limelight,’ adds a touch of romance to limited spaces. With its showy, cone-shaped blooms, this hydrangea is beautiful in small areas.

Pencil Point Juniper

The Pencil Point Juniper is a fantastic addition to small yards. With its slender, columnar form and compact size, it adds a vertical elegance without taking up much space. The blue-green foliage adds a touch of colour and texture to your garden, making it an excellent choice for adding visual interest.

To achieve a stunning small yard in hardiness zones 5 and 6, selecting the right compact trees and shrubs for a small yard is crucial. Choose trees and shrubs that are naturally compact or can be pruned to fit your space, ensuring your garden is both beautiful and tailored to the demands of your region. Embrace the diverse colors, shapes, and sizes available among these selections, and witness your small yard transform into a captivating retreat that delights you throughout the seasons.

 

Colourful Autumn Plants

Colourful Autumn Plants

by | Oct 10, 2023 | Flowers, Foliage, Shrubs, Softscaping, Trees

Perennials, Trees, and Shrubs That Look Great in Autumn

As the summer heat gives way to cooler temperatures and the days grow shorter, nature puts on a breathtaking display with colourful autumn plants that herald the arrival of a new season. The changing foliage is one of the most enchanting aspects of the fall season, and there’s no better way to celebrate it than by incorporating stunning perennials, trees, and shrubs into your garden landscape. In this blog post, we’ll explore a selection of these autumnal gems that can transform your outdoor space into a captivating fall wonderland.

A Selection of Colourful Autumn Plants

Colourful Autumn Plants Sugar Maple in fall landscapingSugar Maple (Acer spp.)

When it comes to fall foliage, few trees can rival the brilliance of maples. Known for their fiery red, orange, and yellow leaves, maple trees are iconic symbols of autumn. Varieties like the Sugar Maple (Acer saccharum) and Red Maple (Acer rubrum) are especially popular for their vibrant colour transformations. Plant one in your yard, and you’ll be treated to a stunning display of orange and crimson leaves that will be the envy of every neighbour on your block.

Oak Trees (Quercus spp.)

Oak trees, with their bold and enduring leaves, are another fantastic choice for fall colour. While oak leaves tend to change colour later in the season, they often turn deep shades of russet, burgundy, and brown. These majestic trees are not only beautiful but also provide valuable wildlife habitat and shade, making them a practical and aesthetically pleasing addition to any landscape.

Colourful Autumn Plants Japanese Maple in fall landscapingJapanese Maples (Acer palmatum)

Japanese maples are renowned for their elegant and delicate foliage. These smaller trees or large shrubs come in a variety of cultivars, each offering unique leaf shapes and colours. In the fall, the leaves of Japanese maples often turn brilliant shades of red, orange, or purple. These trees can be used as focal points in your garden or as accents to complement other plants.

Ornamental Pear (Pyrus calleryana)

The foliage of the ornamental pear tree in the fall is nothing short of spectacular. As the temperatures begin to drop and the days grow shorter, these trees undergo a remarkable transformation. Late to change colour, the typically glossy green leaves of the ornamental pear take on a vibrant and rich array of autumn hues, ranging from brilliant shades of orange and deep red to warm purples when many other trees have turned brown or have shed their leaves. The canopy of an ornamental pear tree, with its fiery foliage, becomes a captivating focal point in any landscape, providing a breathtaking and enduring display that continues well into the fall season.

Colourful Autumn Plants burning bush in fall landscaping

Burning Bush (Euonymus alatus)

The Burning Bush, also known as the Winged Euonymus, is a compact shrub that truly lives up to its name in the fall. Its leaves explode into vibrant shades of crimson, creating a striking visual contrast against the green backdrop of your garden. This deciduous shrub is not only stunning but also low-maintenance, making it a favorite of all colourful autumn plants among gardeners looking for a hassle-free addition to their fall landscape.

Sumac (Rhus typhina)

Sumac trees are another colourful addition to the fall landscape, showcasing their unique beauty as the season progresses. In the autumn, sumac leaves transform into a brilliant palette of red, orange, and burgundy, creating a fiery spectacle that catches the eye from afar. Their feathery, pinnate leaves often persist well into late fall, providing a striking contrast against the backdrop of the changing landscape. What makes sumac trees even more appealing is their upright, architectural growth habit, which adds structure and drama to your garden. As the sumac’s vibrant foliage unfurls, it signals the arrival of fall in a grand and picturesque manner, making it an outstanding choice for those seeking a bold statement in their autumn garden design.

Colourful Autumn Plants Chrysanthemums mums in fall landscapingChrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum spp.)

Chrysanthemums, commonly known as mums, are a classic choice for adding a burst of colour to your fall garden. These perennials come in a wide range of colours, including deep purples, vibrant yellows, and warm oranges. Plant them in pots or garden beds to create stunning displays that can last well into the late autumn. Mums are also perfect for adding a touch of fall festivity to your outdoor decor.

Asters (Symphyotrichum puniceum)

Asters, often referred to as the “stars of autumn,” truly shine in the fall landscape. These charming perennials burst into bloom just as summer transitions into autumn, covering gardens with a sea of vibrant colours. With their daisy-like flowers in shades of purple, pink, and white, asters add a delightful contrast to the changing foliage around them. As the days grow shorter and cooler, asters continue to thrive, providing a late-season nectar source for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Their resilient and cheerful presence makes them a beloved choice for gardeners seeking to extend the beauty of their outdoor spaces well into the fall months.

Colourful Autumn Plants Virginia Creeper in fall landscapingVirginia Creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia)

For those seeking a rustic and wild look in their fall landscape, consider Virginia Creeper. This deciduous vine boasts a brilliant display of fiery red foliage in the autumn. It can be trained to climb walls, trellises, or arbors, creating a dramatic and picturesque backdrop for your garden. Be aware that this vine can be quite invasive, so it’s best if it has lots of space to grow, like a long fence line. To contain it cut it back regularly and dig out new root growth.

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisper, there’s no better time to celebrate the beauty of fall foliage in your garden. Whether you opt for the blazing reds of maples and burning bushes, the elegant hues of Japanese maples, or the varied shades and classic charm of chrysanthemums, there’s a wide range of perennials, trees, and shrubs to choose from. With a well-planned selection, your garden can become a stunning tribute to the gorgeous colours of autumn.

As always, if you’re not much of a green thumb or would just like some professional landscaping assistance, contact us to get started.

Post-Pandemic Landscaping Trends That Are Here to Stay

Post-Pandemic Landscaping Trends That Are Here to Stay

by | Aug 30, 2023 | Hardscaping, Landscape Design, Patios, Ponds, Retaining Walls, Softscaping

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about a seismic shift in how we perceive and utilize our living spaces. As people spent more time at home, the importance of creating functional and beautiful outdoor environments became evident. While the pandemic itself is receding, the impact it had on our lifestyles and preferences is not going away. This is clearly reflected in the enduring landscaping trends that have emerged in the wake of the crisis. Here, we explore the post-pandemic landscaping trends that are here to stay.

Outdoor Living Rooms

outdoor living rooms landscaping hardscapingThe concept of outdoor spaces as extensions of our homes gained immense popularity during the pandemic and is set to remain a staple in landscaping. Outdoor living rooms equipped with comfortable seating, weather-resistant furniture, and even fully functional kitchens have become the new norm. People are realizing that their gardens or backyards can serve as a retreat for relaxation, entertainment, and remote work.

Multipurpose Gardens

Beyond aesthetics, gardens are now being designed with functionality in mind. Multipurpose gardens that incorporate edible plants, such as vegetables, fruits, and herbs, offer a sustainable way to supplement household groceries. This trend reflects a broader movement towards self-sufficiency and a desire to connect with nature through hands-on activities like gardening.

Wellness Retreats

The pandemic prompted a heightened focus on mental and physical well-being. As a result, landscapes are being transformed into wellness retreats. Meditation labyrinths and corners, yoga decks, and serene water features create tranquil spaces for relaxation and self-care. This trend underscores the growing understanding of the positive effects that nature can have on our overall health.

Native Plant Landscaping

post-pandemic landscaping trends

Sustainable and low-maintenance landscaping practices have gained traction, with native plants taking center stage. These plants are adapted to the local environment, requiring less water and minimal upkeep. The trend toward native plant landscaping aligns with the broader global movement to conserve biodiversity and support local ecosystems.

Tech-Integrated Outdoors

Technology has permeated every aspect of our lives, and the outdoors are no exception. Smart irrigation systems, outdoor lighting controlled via mobile apps, and even automated lawn mowers are becoming commonplace. This integration of technology enhances convenience and efficiency in maintaining outdoor spaces.

Staycation-Focused Design

Travel restrictions and safety concerns prompted a renewed appreciation for the beauty of one’s own surroundings. Staycation-focused landscaping designs, featuring resort-like amenities such as swimming pools surrounded by lush landscaping, fire pits, and hot tubs, are likely to continue. These spaces provide an escape without leaving the comfort of home.

Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Environmental consciousness has led to an increased demand for eco-friendly landscaping practices. Rainwater harvesting systems, permeable paving, and xeriscaping (landscaping that requires minimal water) are becoming staples in modern outdoor design. This trend reflects a collective commitment to minimizing the ecological footprint of our living spaces.

Outdoor Workspaces

outdoor kitchen hardscaping patio hardscapingRemote work arrangements prompted a need for adaptable workspaces, and outdoor settings proved to be both refreshing and conducive to productivity. As hybrid work models persist, the integration of outdoor workspaces—whether it’s a shaded patio corner or a garden gazebo—will remain relevant.

The pandemic reshaped our relationship with our living spaces, elevating the importance of the great outdoors. The landscaping trends that emerged during this time are not fleeting fads; they signify a lasting transformation in the way we perceive, design, and use our outdoor environments. From functional outdoor living spaces to sustainable practices and wellness-oriented designs, these trends offer a glimpse into a future where our connection to nature is more profound and holistic than ever before.

Want help upgrading your landscaping? Contact us.

The 5Ws of Landscape Design

The 5Ws of Landscape Design

by | May 7, 2023 | Hardscaping, Landscape Design, Softscaping

The Questions to Ask – Who, What, When, Where, and Why  – When Drafting a Landscape Design

Landscape design is the art and science of creating outdoor spaces that are beautiful, functional, and sustainable. Whether you are starting from scratch or simply refreshing an existing space, understanding the 5Ws of landscape design can help guide you through the process. In this blog post, we will explore the Who, What, When, Where, and Why of landscape design, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the key elements of this exciting field. So, let’s dive in and learn more about the 5Ws of landscape design!

WHO

Who is going to do the design and installation? If you’d like to do it yourself, but aren’t feeling completely confident in being able to do it all, consider contracting out the portions of the project you’re feeling less sure about.

Some people pay for a professional consultation and design and then take care of the installation themselves. Others know what they want but may need assistance with more complex areas of the project, or things that require specialized equipment. And of course there are those who prefer to leave the whole process to a professional landscaping company. You may also need to hire a tradesperson like an electrician or plumber for specific elements of the project.

Also, think about who is going to use the area being redesigned. Will the design benefit all intended users?

WHAT

What do you want your landscape design to look like? Consider the overall style, materials, plants and trees, lighting, etc. What will it take to make your vision become reality?

Are you looking to just add plants, to add or remove trees, to increase or decrease flowerbed areas? Perhaps you want to replace patio area or deck, or make that area larger or smaller.

If you’re adding a pool or hot tub, achieving your vision probably also means adding or replacing a fence, gate, or wall. And adding a water feature or fireplace may require professionals be involved in order to create the space you have envisioned.

WHEN

There are several factors to consider around timing when you’re planning a landscaping project. First, you’ll want to determine how long the project will take and ensure that materials and equipment will be available when you need them. And if you’ll need tradespeople or the help of others, you’ll have to line them up, as well.

Any required permits will take time to acquire, so it’s important to know what you need and apply for permits early in the process.

And remember that your project timeline will be subject to weather conditions, so it’s prudent to expect that your project will take longer than you anticipate, as a contingency.

WHERE

What part of your property are you planning to enhance? Generally, homeowners focus on one area and have specific goals in mind. The front of a home is not typically a place where one spends a lot of leisure time or entertains. The primary benefit of adding landscaping there is improved curb appeal.

Unless a home is located on a corner lot, side yards usually serve as a thoroughfare from front to back. The most common goals for these areas are improved drainage and easier navigation. If the home is located in an urban setting, the side yards can be narrow and shady, so plants should be chosen accordingly.

The backyard is the place where you can add supplemental living space, a place to spend time and entertain. The sky’s the limit for the elements that can be added to make this area more enjoyable.

Another consideration when planning your landscaping project is the type of soil that will provide the foundation for both softscaping and hardscaping. Clay based soil is hard and doesn’t drain well. Sandy soil is soft and doesn’t hold moisture well. Depending on the soil type, it may need to be amended to provide a better foundation for walls and patios, and to provide a better substrate for plants and trees.

WHY

This is where a landscaping project always begins. A homeowner has a vision and goals. Above, we mentioned goals like enhancing curb appeal and creating additional living space. Those are the two most common whys.

More specifically though, new landscaping can address issues like:

  • overgrown or hard-to-maintain areas
  • unfinished space around a new pool or hot tub
  • too much or insufficient natural light
  • filling in a spot where an old patio or pool was removed
  • lack of privacy or blocked view

No matter your project’s scope, understanding the 5Ws of landscape design can help you create a space that is beautiful, functional and sustainable. And if you need some help creating and/or executing your plan, contact us.

Fragrant Trees and Shrubs for your Landscape

Fragrant Trees and Shrubs for your Landscape

by | Mar 26, 2023 | Gardening, Native Plants, Shrubs, Softscaping, Trees

When choosing trees and shrubs for your home’s landscape you most likely look for varieties that not only look good, but smell nice, too. Fortunately, there are myriad fragrant trees in shrubs for your landscape in Southwestern Ontario.

Crab apple blossoms in spring beautiful smell fragranceIn our region, the climate is perfect for many fragrant trees and shrubs that can be enjoyed throughout the year. In this blog post, we will look at some of the best trees and shrubs that are ideal for fragrance in Southwestern Ontario. Whether you are an experienced gardener or just starting, this post will help you create a beautiful, fragrant oasis in your own backyard.

Fragrant Trees

Ivory Silk Lilac

This gorgeous tree is ideal for adding a pleasant, sweet fragrance to your garden. The ivory silk lilac has creamy white blooms that fill the air with a delightful, heady perfume.

Katsura Tree

Fringe tree flowers smell sweetKatsura trees are unique deciduous trees that emit a refreshing, burnt sugar scent in the fall. They have heart-shaped leaves and attractive yellow flowers in the spring.

Fringe Tree

These beautiful trees add a unique twist of sweetness to your garden. The fringe tree is covered in white, star-shaped blooms with a sweet, citrusy fragrance that lingers in the air.

Magnolia Tree

Magnolia trees – both the Saucer and Star varieties – are renowned for their large, white flowers that emit a sweet, citrusy scent.

Crab Apple TreeFragrant Trees and Shrubs for your Landscape Ornamental cherry tree blooms smell fantastic

Crab apple trees offer a pronounced sweet scent and an attractive display of pink to white flowers in the spring.

Ornamental Cherry Tree

Ornamental cherry trees are renowned for their fragrant, Instagram-worthy pink and white blooms.

Fragrant Shrubs

Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle smells sweet and attracts hummingbirds

If you’re looking for an intoxicating scent in your garden, then look no further than the honeysuckle. This shrub is best known for its fragrant, pink, white, coral, and/or yellow blossoms that burst with a sweet aroma.

Mock Orange

The Mock Orange has beautiful white blooms with a strong citrus scent that fills the air with its refreshing aroma.

Lilac

Mock Orange tree white flowers smell sweet and citrusy

The lilac is one of the quintessential fragrant garden shrubs in Southwestern Ontario. These shrubs have dark green leaves and beautiful purple or white blooms that fill the air with their sweet scent in the spring.

Peonies

Peonies are a timeless favorite for adding fragrance and beauty to any garden. These shrubs have large but delicate, fragrant flowers that come in a variety of colors including white, pink, red, and yellow.

Peonies have a lovely fragrance

Catmint

Catmint is a great option for gardeners who want to attract cats with their fragrant garden. Unlike catnip though, cats don’t generally roll in or eat catmint, so this small shrub will stay looking beautiful all season long. This herb can be invasive if left unchecked, so best to give it wide berth in a garden or plant it in a container.

Lavender

Bee balm smells wonderful and attracts pollinatorsLavender is renowned throughout the world for adding fragrance and beauty to any garden. This herb has beautiful purple blooms that fill the air with their calming scent.

Hyssop

Hyssop is a great option for adding an aromatic touch to a garden. This herb has small, bright blue flowers that fill the air with their sweet scent.

Bee Balm

Bee balm is a great option for gardeners who want to attract bees and other pollinators with their fragrant garden. This herb has shaggy, fragrant red or pink flowers that are sure to draw in your buzzing friends!

Primula

Primula flowers are fragrant and a great choice for the gardenThis herb has delicate, fragrant flowers in vibrant shades of pink, purple, and white.

These are just a few of the fragrant trees and shrubs that you can use to add a refreshing scent to your garden. Keep in mind, though, that all plants require regular watering and maintenance for optimal health. Be sure to research each type of tree or shrub before planting so you know their individual needs and can provide them with proper care. With a little bit of effort, you’ll have a beautiful, fragrant oasis right outside your door. And of course, if you’d like assistance establishing a fragrant garden that suits your style and lifestyle, contact us!