marinbuilders.org
Project by Dan Fix Landscape Construction
aspect of a well-executed landscape installation. “It is critical that planning be done to ensure the heavy rains of winter are anticipated and that runoff from the landscape is collected and directed to the appropriate distribution area, be it a drain to the street or a dispersal area on the property,” he says. “Nobody likes to dodge big puddles when they take the garbage out. And you certainly don’t want water standing under your house from poor drainage or grading.” Hardscape items are a large part of the job for contractors. Their first mission is to make sure these potentially eye-catching features are designed according to local building codes and accepted building practices. “Depending on the materials, these items can be the most expensive aspects of garden installation and quite often the most dramatic,” Fix says. “It’s important to us that we bring the highest level of craftsmanship to these components because they are the
...the less talented designs are just a mish mash of plants that, while achieving low water usage, give the garden a haphazard look. This is where a good architect or designer makes the difference. bones of the garden, both in terms of visual appeal and overall function.” Anyone with a “brown thumb” who has ever watched their garden struggle to blossom is advised to pay attention to soil preparation. The existing site soil should be tested before planting to determine what nutrients are available or lacking in the soil. If the soil has been depleted of the necessary nutrients critical for healthy plant growth, this is the time to correct that. Fix recommends adding compost or other organic amenders and tilling into the top six inches of the planting areas to ensure healthy plants. Chemical compounds, which can be added using either organic or chemical fertilizers, might be needed. Many homeowners, especially those who don’t have much experience with building a garden, don’t know the mechanics of proper planting. Plants often are planted too deep, burying the crown of the plant in the soil and leading to crown rot and plant failure. Think about sun exposure and root growth. Make sure your garden has plenty of room to grow. Avoid the curb catastrophe. Follow these steps and you’ll have a colorful, healthy-looking yard that stands out. Let’s build together at marinbuilders.org
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