Author Archives: Martin John Company

IMPORTANT LANDSCAPING TASKS YOU SHOULD BE DOING RIGHT NOW

Summer may virtually be over, but this doesn’t mean that your yard deserves to be neglected once the weather starts turning colder. In fact, there are some landscaping tasks that need to be completed at this time of the year to ensure that your garden looks its absolute best by the time spring arrives.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Now that temperatures are starting to drop, it makes working in the garden just that little bit more comfortable, providing you with the perfect opportunity to start cleaning up your yard and garden beds. Decomposing debris provides an ideal environment for harmful insects to lay eggs and for plant diseases to take hold, so it should all be raked up and cleared away before the first frost arrives.

Other maintenance tasks to focus on now include:

Turning over compost piles one last time before cold weather hits
Cleaning up flower beds, trimming off dead vegetation and trimming perennials back that have finished flowering
Take cuttings from plants that you’d like to propagate
Spending an hour or two weeding each week – this will prevent weeds from going to seed and multiplying as soon as it gets warm again
Raking up fallen leaves – these can be added to compost or used as mulch for garden beds

Get Planting

This is the ideal time for planting trees and shrubs because they will experience a lot less planting stress than during any other season. Even though temperatures will drop soon, their roots will continue growing underground – which will be a tremendous help if summer drought occurs.

Now is also the time when any spring bulbs should be planted as well because it will provide your garden with an array of vibrant colors when spring arrives.

Get that Mulch Down

After a long, hot and dry summer, chances are that any mulch you may have placed in your garden beds will be thin and virtually non-existent. Placing a new layer down will protect plant roots from the cold winter, while also helping to keep your yard looking great. It’s recommended that mulch layers not be thicker than about two to three inches though.

Continue Watering

Although it may look like your plants are going into hibernation, their roots will still be actively growing during this time of the year. Shrubs, trees, evergreen perennials and anything else you may have planted recently will need to be watered until such time as the ground officially freezes for the winter. If the area you live in receives decent amounts of rain during fall, you may not need to water that often. However, if your area doesn’t receive much rain during this time of the year, it’s recommended that you water deeply approximately once a week.

Getting the above-mentioned tasks completed before the first frost arrives will help ensure that your garden will be able to not only survive the winter; your plants, shrubs and trees will look absolutely fantastic when spring eventually arrives.

5 FEATURES OF AN OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE THAT CAN BE USED ALL YEAR

Many homeowners believe that the end of summer also means the final days of being able to enjoy outdoor parties, BBQs and casual get-togethers. However, this need not be the case if you decide to convert your backyard into a cozy outdoor living space. In fact, including these aspects will allow you to make the most of this part of your property all year round.

Outdoor Heaters

As temperatures start dropping with the approach of fall, outdoor heaters can provide a great solution for friends and family to stay warm while enjoying some time outdoors. These units are available in various sizes, meaning that there will be a few options available to suit your outdoor living area – regardless of its size. Another advantage of these heaters is that they are portable, so it’s easy to store them during the warmer months.

Patio Roofing

Installing a patio roof is not only a great way to improve privacy in your outdoor entertainment area; it will be an absolute blessing on those days that the weather is unpredictable because you’ll still be able to entertain outdoors without worrying about your guests or food getting wet. Outdoor curtains can be installed on one or more sides if additional shelter or privacy is needed.

Outdoor Kitchens

Many types of food simply taste better when they’ve been grilled, regardless of the season. Installing a fully equipped outdoor kitchen in your backyard living space and under a roof will allow you to continue preparing meals and simply enjoying gathering with friends and family virtually all year round. Setting out weatherproof tables and chairs will provide a little extra comfort as well.

Lighting

Having outdoor lighting installed in and around your outdoor living space will not only improve the overall aesthetics of this part of your home; it will make it far safer for you and your guests to spend time outside as it becomes darker in the evenings. Investing in waterproof LED and solar lighting fixtures will help provide the ambiance and lighting you need without having to worry about it having an effect on your electricity bill.

Fire Features

Whether you choose a fire pit, traditional fireplace, or fire table, adding a fire feature to your outdoor living space can help maximize the amount of time you spend entertaining outdoors. Adding a few little extras such as soft cushions, throws or blankets on a built-in bench around your fire feature will create a cozy feel all year round to this part of your yard area.

Setting up an outdoor living space in a way that makes it feel inviting and cozy will enable you to enjoy spending time outside entertaining friends and family all year round. If you would like to obtain recommendations for transforming your outdoor living area to maximize your year-round use, get in touch with us today to set up an appointment.

FALL IS ALMOST HERE! TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT LANDSCAPING IDEAS FOR COOLER TEMPS

As fall approaches, many new gardeners may be feeling unsure of what needs to be done to prepare the landscaping on their properties – while those who are more experienced may simply be looking for new ideas. Implementing the following measures in your yard before the first frost arrives will help ensure that your landscaping looks spectacular when warmer temperatures make their appearance again.

Start Planning your Landscaping

September is the perfect time to compile a plan for your garden, so it will be a good idea to visit local nurseries to see which plants are available that will thrive in your yard. Spend some time in your yard to determine where the best places will be for planting specific flowers, shrubs and bushes – this will allow you to see which areas get the most sun, which parts of your garden experience good or poor drainage and whether any sheltered spots are available for anything fragile you intend on planting.

Get your Bulbs Planted

After determining where each new plant will be placed, it’s time to get started with planting a variety of spring bulbs. This will provide your yard and garden with a beautiful array of colors when spring eventually arrives. Examples of bulbs that can be planted include Daffodils, Tulips, Lilies, Hyacinths and Snowdrops.

Take Care of your Lawn

This is the time of year when your lawn will require a little extra care, so now is the time to plant grass seeds in any bare areas and ensure that everything gets covered with a dense layer of compost. The compost will not only encourage healthy growth when temperatures begin thawing; it will give your lawn the helping hand it needs to survive the cold winter frosts as well.

Mulch Over Perennials and Mud In Any New Fall Plants

Once you’ve placed each new plant in its hole, it’s recommended to water them a few times before adding the new soil around them – a combination of fresh dirt and compost is best for this task. Once the new plants have been completely buried, a little more water should be added to get the soil around them saturated.

Prepare your Winter Salad

As the colder weather approaches, the demand for green veggies often increases substantially. It’s fully possible to have winter salad growing during the colder months with a little upfront preparation. If you’re fortunate enough to have a cold-frame greenhouse, this will be the ideal spot to place your spinach and kale plants.

Although mulch can be purchased in bags from your local garden supply store or nursery, it will be more economical to purchase a truckload for delivery if the areas requiring it are excessively large. If you’re willing to put in the effort into your garden and yard at this time of the year, you will be rewarded with a beautiful array of color and healthy plants by the time spring arrives.

HOW A PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPER CAN INCREASE THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME

Landscaping can play a big role in raising your property’s value. Your yard is an extension of your home. Making it beautiful adds to the appeal of your home. Let’s talk about some of the ways hiring a professional landscaper can increase the value of your home. From gorgeous trees to garden pathways, well-designed and properly maintained landscaping adds curb appeal to your property.

Gardens

A professional landscaper can design a layout for a beautiful herb and flower garden in your yard. They will help you choose plants and shrubs that help garden spaces stay as maintenance-free as possible. Hearty, perennial plants that are native to the climate require less care and maintenance than annuals and ornamental varieties. Peaceful garden spaces with low upkeep add charm and value to your home’s exterior.

Pathways

Landscapers can help you create unique, functional pathways throughout your property. The path up to the front of your home is the first thing people see and stand on when they approach. Pathways are a big part of the first impression potential buyers get when they walk up to the front door. Outdoor patios for entertaining and garden pathways can make good selling points as well.

Proper Lawn Maintenance

Landscapers know the best ways to take care of your property. They know exactly how to keep lawns looking fabulous. Professional landscapers are consistent and do their best to keep the grass in good condition. They ensure your lawn is trimmed properly and can even help you take care of watering and fertilizing the grass.

Create Structure and Flow

Professional landscapers can help you create the best design for your space. They know how to use landscaping to make a space feel more open. They can also use large rocks, shrubs, or hedges that are gorgeous yet add privacy to the space. These landscaping upgrades add value to your home.

Ponds and Fountains

A calming water feature makes a relaxing addition to any outdoor sitting area or garden. A clear pool with a little water feature creates serenity and can boost your property value. A professional landscaper can help you create the perfect small pond with a waterfall to bring some life to your outdoor space. Landscapers can install and maintain a water feature that beautifies your backyard.

Trees

Trees are a great way to add value to your property. They are good for the environment and help improve air quality. They create shady areas for comfort outside. They can also help provide privacy. Professional landscapers know how to choose the right kinds of trees for your space. They know how to plant trees properly and can help you decide on the best spots to plant them so they have sufficient space to grow.

Professional Landscaping Makes a DifferenceThe outside of your home has a lot to do with its value. Professional landscaping can make major improvements. Keeping the yard and property well maintained is important because it is the outward first impression visitors get of your home. Boost your property’s overall value by investing in professional landscaping service. Call Martin John Company now for all your landscaping needs.

HARDINESS ZONES ARE IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND

When you’re shopping for the perfect plants, hardiness zones are important to understand. The Department of Agriculture assigns one of thirteen specific codes to different regions of the United States based on climate and geography. Hardiness zones are key to finding plants that will thrive in your region. Paying attention to which hardiness zone you live in can save you money, disappointment, and time when choosing plants for your outdoor spaces.

Weather Patterns and Seasonal Changes Affect Plants

A plant’s hardiness is determined by its ability to withstand extreme heat or cold. Each plant’s hardiness zone is based on its ability to adapt to local temperatures without harming or killing it. All plants thrive differently under different conditions so it’s important to understand which plants do best in your area. Weather patterns and seasonal variations have to be suitable for the plants you choose. Paying attention to the season-to-season changes will help you make the best landscaping choices for your garden.

Winter Temperatures Determine Hardiness Zones

Hardiness zones are determined to help us better understand which plants will best survive winters in that particular area of the country. These zones are based on average winter lows in the region. Perennials, trees, and shrubs can be fragile and die if low temperatures get too cold for them. Hardiness zones tell us how well a plant survives in colder temperatures. You don’t want to line your property with lush shrubs only to realize next spring that winter in your zone was too harsh for them to survive.

Determine What Zone You’re Actually In

Know and understand the climate you’re working in as well as you can. There is about a ten-degree difference in average temperature between each of the plant hardiness zones. Determining which zone you’re in is important to ensure you’re growing the right types of plants at the right time of year. You can use your hardiness zone information to figure out when it’s safe to start planting for the year. Planting at the right time gives you the best chance for growing success.

Find Plants That Thrive In Your Zone

Many factors affect the way plants grow, but making sure the climate is suitable for them is probably the most important. Overall climates can have a wide range so hardiness zones are helpful when learning which plants can withstand your local weather. This will help you make the most of your flower beds and maintain rows of gorgeous flowers and shrubs year after year.

3 Reasons to Pay Attention to Hardiness Zones

Knowing your hardiness zone makes it easier to decide what to buy when you’re looking for new plants. This information helps you determine which varieties will grow the best in your area. This saves time and money wasted on plants that won’t survive.
You can get creative and build a successful, thriving garden over time if you choose plants that do well in your region. When you know the plants you choose are suitable for your climate, you can count on them to return and grow each season.
Grow healthier plants that have a better chance at survival by giving them the best environment possible. It will be easier to take care of landscaping additions that are suited for the conditions in your zone.

Take out the guesswork and leave it up to the professionals. Let Martin John Company help you choose the most suitable plants for your landscaping needs.

THE BENEFITS OF HIRING A PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPER

A well-manicured lawn and garden can completely transform your space, whether it’s your home, apartment complex, or even your company. If you’ve been considering a landscape renovation, hiring a professional landscaper is always the ideal choice. Here are some of the most important benefits associated with hiring an experienced professional.

It Saves Time

Landscaping involves much more than simply mowing the lawn and trimming the weeds, and this is especially true if you prefer to have an aesthetic lawn complete with flowers, trees, shrubs, and more. Unfortunately for most business and homeowners alike, the time required to create and maintain that lovely landscape is simply too much. This is the main reason why so many people choose to hire an experienced professional landscaper: they get all the benefits of a pristine outdoor space with none of the time investment.

It Keeps You Safe

Although it may seem as if landscaping is relatively safe (and for most tasks, it is), there are some situations in which you might compromise your safety without the right experience and/or equipment. Things like removing dead tree branches before they careen to the ground and cause property damage or injury, for example, require finesse and equipment that the average home or business owner simply does not possess. Again, this is why it is so beneficial to hire a professional landscaper – they know what to do in every situation, and they have the equipment and experience to do it safely.

It Makes Your Space More Beautiful

Planting flowers, trees, and shrubs can be highly rewarding, but unless you have experience and knowledge about which plants thrive in which climates and soil types, you might just find that keeping your flora alive is difficult (if not impossible). Professional landscapers work with a variety of plants in the Chicago area day in and day out, so if you are looking for a specific type of plant that can withstand Chicago’s steamy summers, for example, they can provide you with a list of options. Furthermore, they also have the experience and knowledge required to ensure that the soil conditions and location of the plants are conducive to their health.

You’ll Get the Best Possible Design

Of course, landscaping is about much more than simply planting flowers and keeping the lawn in tip-top condition. It’s also about things like lighting, walkways, patio and porch placement, outdoor living spaces, and so much more. It can be difficult to design a space that really works for you and your family without prior experience, but with just a few quick questions and a survey of your space, a professional landscaper can come up with a design concept that will meet your wants and needs in ways you probably didn’t even consider.

As you can see, there are many benefits associated with hiring a professional landscaper. Aside from saving you time, keeping you safe, and ensuring a perfectly aesthetic landscape design, a professional can work with you all through the year to provide a variety of services ranging from snow removal to lighting installation and more.

5 PLANTS THAT CAN WITHSTAND THE CHICAGO SUMMER HEAT

Chicago is a part of the country that is known for its freezing winters and sweltering summers, meaning that just the right plants will be needed if you want your garden to look good during the summer months. Take a look at the following plants that will be able to keep your garden looking awesome – even on the hottest days.

PowWow Wild Berry Coneflower

This plant produces bright, fade-resistant purple flowers from the beginning of summer right into fall without any need for deadheading. Not only do these flowers put on a spectacular show; the plant itself remains compact and tidy as well. It’s also known for tolerating poor soil, humidity, heat and even drought once fully established. Occasional watering is required, but can be watered more frequently if extreme heat is experienced.

Goldsturm Black Eyed Susan

Most commonly used as a hassle-free border plant, the Goldsturm Black Eyed Susan also makes a wonderful choice for when cut flowers are required. When blooming, they make a beautiful display of golden yellow flowers with black centers that look fairly similar to daisies. This plant is well known for tolerating humidity and heat and once established, usually only requires occasional watering.

Lacey Blue Russian Sage

The Lacey Blue Russian Sage is not only known for being extremely tolerant to heat and drought; it produces beautiful lavender-blue flowers that are aromatic and deer-resistant. When established, this plant provides a lot of color in a garden, it’s easy to care for and is commonly used as an accent or garden border. This plant requires occasional watering once established, but can be watered more frequently if temperatures become abnormally hot.

Kudos Mandarin Dwarf Agastache

If you’re looking for something bright to add color to your summer garden in Chicago, this plant will be a big help. It provides color all summer long and it’s extremely hardy, resistant to disease and tolerates wet soil extremely well too. This plant is a common choice for garden borders, beds and containers, and it will attract several butterflies and hummingbirds to your yard. After it’s established, occasional watering is needed – which can be increased during severe heat.

Geyser White Gaura

This is a full-bodied plant that will flower abundantly until the first frost arrives, producing long-lasting blooms in a silvery white color. It’s known for thriving in containers as well as when it is used as a cut flower. The Geyser White Gaura tolerates summer heat and humidity exceptionally well, and will only require occasional watering after it has been fully established in a garden.

The above-mentioned plants will not only provide a beautiful show of color for your summer garden; most of them will require little care and overall maintenance once they’ve established themselves. If you would like to find out more about the types of plants that will thrive in your Chicago garden during the hot summers, get in touch with our team today.

5 Reasons Why Having a Landscape Designer Take Care of Your Property is a Good Idea

Increase your Home’s Value

Investing in the services of a qualified landscape designer will not only help improve the overall appearance of your property; it will also help increase its value substantially because potential buyers will see a yard and garden area that has already been established with plants, shrubs, and flowers that are native to the area.

If you’re a property owner or manager and you’ve been considering the option of hiring a professional and experienced landscape designer, our team will be able to assist you. We can assist with small and larger landscape design and maintenance projects and will take your budget into consideration throughout the planning process.

Get in touch with our team today to discuss the various options we can provide with regard to landscaping design and maintenance. No project is too small or too large for us to consider.

Best Flowers for the Ultimate Curb Appeal during a Chicago Summer Heat

Garden Phlox

Garden Phlox are known for growing extremely well all over the Chicago region and they prefer to be planted in sunny areas with soil that’s quite damp. These light purple flowers will often be seen blooming well into October.

Having even a few of the above-mentioned flower varieties planted throughout your Chicago garden will ensure that it looks bright and cheerful – even on the hottest of summer days. If you would like to get your garden looking good for summer, but aren’t sure where to start, get in touch with us today. We will be able to provide you with the advice you need or even the team you require to landscape your garden to perfection.