Mulching your yard or commercial business can provide numerous benefits that can improve the overall appearance and health of your landscape. Mulch is a layer of organic material that is spread over the top of soil to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. In this blog, we will discuss why you would want to mulch your yard or commercial business and the various benefits that come with it.

1. Moisture retention: Mulch helps to retain moisture in the soil, which is especially important during the hot summer months when water evaporates quickly. By retaining moisture, mulch helps to keep your plants hydrated and reduces the need for frequent watering. This can save you time and money, as well as conserve water, which is an increasingly precious resource.
2. Soil temperature regulation: Mulch helps to regulate soil temperature, which can be especially important for sensitive plants that are sensitive to temperature changes. By regulating soil temperature, mulch helps to prevent soil from overheating or cooling too quickly, which can help your plants grow stronger and healthier.
3. Weed suppression: Mulch helps to suppress weeds, which can be a major problem for many gardeners and landscapers. By covering the soil with a thick layer of mulch, you can help prevent weed seeds from germinating and growing. This can save you time and energy that you would otherwise spend pulling weeds and maintaining your landscape.
4. Aesthetic appeal: Mulch can greatly improve the overall aesthetic appeal of your yard or commercial business. By creating a neat and tidy appearance, mulch can help to enhance the look of your landscape and create a more professional and well-maintained appearance. Whether you’re using mulch in your home garden, at your business, or in a public park, the aesthetic benefits of mulch cannot be overstated.
5. Soil health: Mulch helps to improve soil health by adding organic matter to the soil. As the mulch breaks down, it adds valuable nutrients to the soil, which can help your plants grow stronger and healthier. This is especially important for commercial businesses that rely on healthy, vibrant landscapes to attract customers and clients.
6. Erosion control: Mulch can help to control erosion by holding soil in place and preventing it from washing away. This is especially important for areas that experience heavy rainfall, as well as for landscapes with steep slopes or banks. By controlling erosion, mulch can help to maintain the health and stability of your landscape, even in challenging conditions.
7. Cost-effective: Mulching is a cost-effective way to improve the health and appearance of your landscape. Unlike other landscaping methods, mulching requires only minimal maintenance and can last for several years before needing to be replenished. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of mulch without having to spend a lot of time or money maintaining your landscape.

In conclusion, mulching your yard or commercial business can provide numerous benefits that can improve the overall appearance and health of your landscape. Whether you’re looking to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, suppress weeds, or simply improve the look of your outdoor space, mulching is a cost-effective and low-maintenance solution that can help you achieve your goals. So if you’re looking for a simple and effective way to enhance your landscape, consider mulching your yard or commercial business today!

Spring is the perfect time to start working on your landscaping. With the warmer weather and the emergence of new growth, it’s the ideal time to give your outdoor space a makeover. Whether you’re looking to hire a landscaper or take on the project yourself, there are a few common landscaping tips that can help you start your spring landscaping off right.

1. Clean up your outdoor space: Before you start any new landscaping projects, it’s important to clear your outdoor space of any debris or clutter. Remove fallen branches, dead leaves, and any other debris that may have accumulated over the winter months. This will not only help you see what you’re working with, but it will also make it easier to create a plan for your new landscape.

2. Plan your landscape: Once you’ve cleared your outdoor space, it’s time to start planning your new landscape. Consider the sun exposure, the type of soil, and the type of plants you want to include in your landscape. Make sure to factor in any existing features, such as trees, flowerbeds, and walkways. You can also use online tools and resources to help you create a plan that works best for your space.

3. Consider your plants: When selecting plants for your landscape, it’s important to consider the amount of sun and water they need, as well as their growth habits and maintenance needs. Some plants are better suited for full sun, while others thrive in partial shade. It’s also important to consider the type of soil in your area, as well as the local climate and any pests that may be common in your area.

4. Install hardscaping: Hardscaping is a great way to add structure and interest to your landscape. Consider adding walkways, retaining walls, or garden edging to help define your outdoor space. Hardscaping elements can also help control erosion and improve the overall look of your landscape.

5. Use mulch: Mulch is a great way to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around your plants to help keep their roots protected and hydrated.

6. Add water features: Water features, such as fountains, ponds, and water gardens, can add beauty and interest to your landscape. Not only do they provide a visual focal point, but they can also attract birds and other wildlife to your yard.

7. Maintain your landscape: Once your landscape is in place, it’s important to maintain it properly. Make sure to water your plants regularly, prune any dead or overgrown plants, and remove any weeds that may pop up. Regular maintenance will help ensure that your landscape stays healthy and beautiful for years to come.

8. Hire a professional landscaper: If you’re not sure where to start, or if you want to ensure that your landscape is designed and installed properly, consider hiring a professional landscaper. Landscapers have the experience and expertise needed to help you create a beautiful and functional landscape that meets your specific needs and requirements.

In conclusion, spring is the perfect time to start working on your landscaping. Whether you’re taking on the project yourself or hiring a professional landscaper, there are a few common landscaping tips that can help you start your spring landscaping off right. From cleaning up your outdoor space and planning your landscape, to adding water features and maintaining your landscape, these tips will help you create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you can enjoy for years to come.

Too much water or not enough sunlight can cause your plants to wither. Regulating conditions can be complicated by weather related factors, especially as the seasons change. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to protect your plants and keep them healthy throughout the winter.

Move Plants Indoors

If you have potted plants around your landscape, they should be moved indoors for the winter. Once the temperatures start dropping below 45 degrees F, you should protect them from the cold. Find a spot in the house where you can control light, humidity, and temperature. 

Keep in mind that suddenly moving a plant indoors can send it into shock. Your best bet is to gradually move the plants indoors. For shade plants, bring them indoors for a couple hours per day and slowly increase their time inside. With plants that love the sun, place them in the shade for about two weeks before they come indoors so that they have a chance to adapt.

Water Carefully

During the winter, you won’t have to worry about watering as much. You will need to adjust your watering schedule and only add water when the soil is dry to the touch. Excessive watering can result in root rot. 

Add Humidity

Winter air is a lot dryer than during the summer. When you add fireplaces and furnaces to the equation, humidity levels can drop even more. Adding a small, cool humidifier to the area where you keep your plants can help you achieve the right humidity levels. 

Remove Bugs

Bugs can be tough on plants and if you are bringing plants indoors, you probably don’t want to invite the bugs in as well. The easiest way to address bug problems is to soak the plant in a bucket of water that contains a drop of mild soap. You won’t have to use pesticides and your plants will be bug-free.

Following these simple tips will help keep your plants thriving throughout the winter. For additional help preparing your plants and landscape for winter, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping. 

The colorful fall foliage is something to look forward to each year, but it can also be a hassle once all those leaves end up on your lawn. Raking leaves can be an unforgiving chore, but there are some hacks you can use to easily get rid of leaves and protect your lawn’s health. 

Mulch the Leaves

If the leaves are left whole they can create too much organic matter and prevent your turf from getting the proper nutrients while also promoting mold growth. However, if you mulch the leaves, you will be providing your lawn with some great fertilizer. Any lawnmower should be able to mince up the leaves. Just be sure to mulch the leaves when they are dry so that they are easier to break up.

Buy a Tarp

A tarp can be your best friend when it comes to raking up leaves. Instead of creating piles and bagging the leaves, you can simply rake them onto the tarp. When it is full, gather up each corner and take the leaves to the trash or other disposal area. This is an especially helpful hack if you have a large yard and lots of ground to cover.

Get a New Rake

Every job is easier when you have the right tools. If you have been using the same old rusty rake for years, it is time for an upgrade. You will find that new models have easy grip handles, more effective tines, and other little design tweaks that will make raking easier and prevent blisters and sore arms.

Work with Nature

Don’t make things harder than they have to be by trying to rake up wet leaves. Take advantage of dry days to remove your leaves. In addition, if you can, clean your leaves on a windy day so that you can rake in the direction the wind is blowing to make things easier. 

These hacks will certainly make leaf removal easier this fall, but if you want additional help, be sure to call the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawncare. Our team of professionals can help you clean up your yard and prepare it for winter. 

In North Carolina, summer means high heat and humidity, which often lead to afternoon thunderstorms. While the rain can be great for your lawn and landscape, there are also some steps you can take to protect your home and yard from high winds and flooding. 

Add Mulch

Hard rains and strong winds can be tough on plants. However, helping your plants build a strong root system can make them more resilient and ensure that they come back healthy even if they are damaged by weather. A three-inch blanket of mulch will help plants be more durable and trap moisture during the hot summer months.

Keep Trees Trimmed

Extreme weather can also be tough on trees, especially if they have become overgrown. Losing a limb also has the potential to damage your home and take down power lines. Be sure to remove any dead branches and trim any other branches that aren’t doing well. This will allow the tree to send more energy to the root system and help it become more solidly anchored in the soil.

Tether Plants

If you spent the spring installing new plants throughout your landscape, it is a good idea to tether these young plants to a fence or a stake that has been placed securely in the ground. Again, these plants are still trying to establish a strong root system, so anchoring them will help them survive summer thunderstorms.

Install a Retaining Wall 

Flooding can also be a problem as storms move in and out quickly and drop a good amount of rain. This can be tough on plants and also cause soil erosion. A retaining wall may be the solution for effectively redirecting water and providing a barrier for plants and soil. Fortunately, these walls can also make a great decorative addition to your landscape.

While summer storms can be tough on your landscape, there are some precautions you can take to help your plants survive summer conditions. For additional help protecting and improving your landscape, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care.

Adding a walkway to your garden is a great way to add structure and protect your plants from foot traffic. A walkway also creates a focal point and acts as a standout design feature. Choosing the best material may depend on the overall look you are trying to achieve. Here are some great options to choose from. 

1. Gravel

The nice part about a gravel path is that you can choose from all sorts of different stone colors and sizes. Small, beige pebbles are great for a country garden and larger black and gray stones are often found in Japanese-style gardens. No matter what type of gravel you choose, it will create a defined walkway and help to keep the weeds at bay for a crisp and clean look.

2. Bricks Pavers

If you are looking to install a more permanent walkway, pavers are a great choice. These tend to be used in more manicured gardens and can be an extension of patio areas. They provide a classic look along with plenty of color and pattern options. Brick pavers are also incredibly durable.

3. Wood   

Wood walkways provide a more casual and organic look. You can work with a professional to installed raised walkways or invest in DIY roll-out products that can be installed in minutes. Just remember to purchase pressure-treated wood or cedar to ward off rot and prolong the life of your walkway.

4. Concrete

Concrete is by far the cheapest walkway material that also comes with a high level of durability. You can pour the concrete for a walkway with finished edges or install stepping-stone style pieces of broken concrete for a more natural look.   

Choosing the best material for a garden walkway will vary according to your budget, how much maintenance you are prepared to do, and the type of look you are trying to achieve. For help finding and installing the right material, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping. We have years of experience serving customers throughout the Triangle area.   

While practically everyone wants to enjoy a beautiful and healthy landscape, not everyone has the time or patience for regular maintenance. Fortunately, there are plenty of low-maintenance options for landscaping. Whether you want to enjoy lush trees, bright flowers, or colorful grasses, you can find low-maintenance options to enhance your surroundings without all the fuss.

Dogwood

Dogwoods are the state tree of North Carolina and a beautiful symbol of spring. Once the weather turns warm, these low-maintenance trees showcase stunning white flowers. They prefer to be partially shaded and mature trees can range from 10-25 feet in height. Dogwoods are also known for quick growth and can gain about a foot per year. 

Black-eyed Susan

If you have a sunny spot in the yard that could use some color, black-eye Susan flowers are a great choice. They grow 1 to 3 feet tall and bloom from June through October with yellow flower petals that attract local pollinators. Just be sure to give them plenty of their own space because they can be aggressive growers and crowd out any other flowers you plant nearby. 

American Holly

The American holly is another hardy and colorful tree that is found throughout North Carolina. They prefer partial sun and regular moisture but can withstand full sun or shade, flooding, drought, and even saltwater. It is categorized as a broad-leaf evergreen and known for bright red berries and glossy, deep green leaves. Bluebirds especially love to hang out in these trees and eat the berries.    

Butterfly Weed

The butterfly weed enjoys full sun and dry soil, making it a perfect flower for North Carolina summers. It grows 1 to 2 feet tall and sprouts bright yellow and orange flowers that are known to attract Monarch butterflies. This flower is a great low-maintenance option that will bring additional color and nature to your yard. 

No matter where you live in North Carolina, there are plenty of low-maintenance plant options that will help you enjoy a beautiful landscape without having to constantly tend to your plants. With a little research, you can fill in your landscape with ornamental trees, flowers, and shrubs for a beautiful and cohesive look that complements your home. For tips on low-maintenance landscaping ideas, visit JT’s Landscaping and Lawn Care today. 

The winter months provide a break from contrast lawn maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you want to completely ignore your yard. Before the cold really sets in, you will want to take certain steps to prepare your lawn for winter. Investing some time during the fall will ensure that your lawn returns healthier than ever in the spring. Follow these tips for a better lawn.

1. Do the Final Mow

For the last mow of the season, you will want to cut the grass down to 1”-1.5”. This will make aeration easier and allow you to identify any areas that may need extra compost and seed.

2. Remove Leaves and Organic Debris

Raking up leaves and pine needles throughout the fall can feel like an endless chore, but it is an important part of preparing your lawn. A thick layer of leaves can prevent air from reaching the roots. In addition, leaves can accumulate moisture, which provides the perfect home for both pests and disease. If the leaves aren’t too thick or wet, you can simply use your lawnmower to mulch them up into smaller pieces, which can then provide your lawn with nutrients.

3. Aerate and Fertilize Your Lawn

Before the Triangle area experiences the first frost of the year, you will want to aerate and fertilize your lawn. Aeration not only breaks up any compaction that has occurred, but it also allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots. Adding the right fertilizer once you have aerated provided roots with the opportunity to absorb and store nutrients over the winter. As soon as the weather turns warm and the grass begins to grow again, it will have everything it needs to create a dense root structure and grow back thicker than ever.

4. Overseed

When you combine overseeding with aeration and fertilizing, you improve your chances of creating a thicker lawn. A push spreader is the best way to consistently deliver seeds. Be sure to overlap slightly as you make passes across the lawn. 

5. Reduce Foot Traffic

Once the grass has gone dormant, it is more susceptible to damage. If you continue to walk the same path across your lawn, you can damage the grass and create bare spots come spring.

Following these five steps will protect your lawn throughout the winter months and ensure that you have a healthier landscape next spring. If you would like professional help preparing your lawn for winter, contact the experts at JT’s Landscaping. Our team of highly trained experts has years of experience helping homeowners throughout the Triangle enjoy healthier and more beautiful landscapes. 

The daylight hours are getting shorter. The temperatures are dropping and winter is setting in. That means more time spent indoors, making it the perfect time to prepare your deck or patio for winter weather conditions. Spending some time preparing your patio will both prolong its lifespan and make sure that it is ready to use once spring arrives. Follow these 5 steps to make sure that your deck is ready for snow and cold temperatures.

1. Remove All Dirt and Debris

While your deck is exposed to dirt and debris throughout the year, this is especially true during the fall when leaves and pine needles fall from the trees. Dirt and other organic debris can accumulate in corners and between boards, which allows moisture to build up. As you probably know, moisture is the number one enemy of wood and can cause rot and other structural damage. Simply cleaning your deck can go a long way in preserving it.

2. Remove Any Mildew

Not only is mildew unsightly and slippery, but it can also cause damage. Make sure to do a deep cleaning on all your deck or patio surfaces before it has a chance to set in for winter. There are plenty of products on the market or you can create your own mixture of water, soap, and bleach. All you have to do is apply the cleaner, wait 10-15 minutes and thoroughly rinse the deck in order to effectively kill and remove harmful mildew.

3. Conduct a Visual Inspection

Once your deck or patio has been cleaned, take the time to inspect joints, look for weak or loose boards and any nails or hardware that has become loose. Replace any damaged wood, hammer down raised nails, and tighten hardware for a safe and secure deck.

4. Apply Sealant

This is a maintenance project that should be on your to-do list every 2-3 years. Sealing your deck will help to lock out moisture and prevent warping, cracking, and rotting. It will also help deter pests from attacking the wood so that you won’t have to worry about repairs. 

5. Remove Snow

Once the cold weather has set in, be sure to shovel snow off the deck or patio with a plastic shovel that won’t leave scratches. You don’t want inches of moisture sitting on the wood. It is also important to avoid salting wood surfaces because it can damage certain stains and finishes.

Putting a little time and effort into preparing your deck or patio can go a long way in making sure that it is intact and ready to enjoy once the warm weather returns. Regular attention and maintenance will also prevent you from having to worry about more expensive repairs. You can prolong the life of your deck and continue to enjoy your outdoor living space.

For more tips and professional help preparing your landscape and hardscapes for the changing seasons, contact JT’s Landscaping today.  

Fall is here and it is time to turn your attention to your landscape. Spending some time cleaning up debris and preparing your grass, trees, flower beds and irrigation systems for the winter can help ensure a beautiful and healthy landscape once spring arrives. Taking advantage of fall cleanup services can help you make a great first impression with customers and visitors who come to your retail center or office park. Here are the top 7 commercial landscape services we recommend during the fall:

1. Leaf Cleanup

While fall foliage can be beautiful, once the leaves have fallen and are covering your turf, it is time to take action and search for some fall cleanup services. Not only do dead leaves make your property look unkempt, the leaves are bad news for your grass. The leaves will prevent air and nutrients from reaching the lawn while also collecting moisture that will attract insects and plant diseases. That is why leaf removal should be at the top of your list for fall landscape services.

2. Aerating and Seeding

One fall cleanup service you should consider is aerating and seeding. Mowing your lawn and even just walking on it can cause the soil to compact, which makes it difficult for water and nutrients to get to the roots. Aeration works by removing plugs of soil from the lawn and creating clear pathways to roots. When aeration is followed by overseeding, your lawn will grow back stronger and fuller in the spring.

3. Fertilizing

It may sound counterintuitive to fertilize your grass right as it is beginning to go dormant for the winter. Keep in mind that while your grass won’t be growing, the roots are still developing and need nutrients. Fertilizing in the fall will help create a deep and healthy root system that will result in a thick lawn once growth resumes in the fall.

4. Pruning

Now is the time to cut back overgrown or dead trees and bushes. With the leaves gone, you will be able to see what needs to be trimmed. Pruning not only creates a tidy landscape, it also supports plant health.

5. Take Care of Perennials

Now that the bloom is off your perennials, your flower beds are probably full of deteriorating stalks. You can cut them back all the way to the ground, which will help prevent disease, improve the look of your landscape and help the flowers come back next year. This is a necessary fall cleanup service you should complete to keep your lawn looking great.

6. Mowing

For the final mow of the season, you will want to cut the grass shorter than you may usually cut it. Shorter grass will help prevent moisture from accumulating and spreading disease. It will also make leaf removal a lot easier.

7. Winterize Your Irrigation System

During the warm North Carolina summers, your irrigation system plays a key role in providing the right amount of moisture. Once the weather turns cold, you want to protect your system so that you don’t have to worry about making costly repairs. It is important to remove all the water from the system to prevent any freezing and take other steps to winterize the system.

Leave your fall cleanup tasks to the experts. Call JT’s Landscaping to schedule a consultation and set up a fall cleanup schedule that will protect your retail location or office center landscape and make sure that it looks better than ever next spring.