Fall is here and with it comes the urge to tidy up your garden and landscape. But before you grab your pruning shears, it's important to know what should and should not be trimmed in the fall. While it may be tempting to give your plants a good trimming, there are some plants that should not be trimmed in the fall. One important thing to keep in mind is not to trim plants that bloom on old wood. This means that the flowers for the following season are already formed on the previous year's growth. Trimming these plants in the fall can result in the removal of flower buds and a reduced floral display the following season. Some of the most common plants in the Northeast that bloom on old wood include hydrangea, roses, butterfly bushes, and viburnum. If you have these plants in your garden, it's best to wait until after they have bloomed to do any trimming. The best time to trim these plants is as soon after they have finished blooming as possible. This allows you to shape the plant and remove any dead or diseased wood, while still preserving the flower buds for the following season. So, before you grab your pruning shears this fall, be sure to think twice about what you're trimming. Trim with care and preserve the beauty of your garden for seasons to come! If you need help with your fall garden cleanup or pruning, consider reaching out to the experts at J and R Property Services. They can help you keep your garden and landscape looking its best, no matter what the season.
When it comes to planting grass in Upstate New York, timing is everything. While you may think that spring is the best time to plant, late summer(late August - roughly 3rd week of September) is actually the ideal season for planting grass seeds in this region. With its cooler evenings, mild temperatures, and ample rainfall, the late summer and early fall months provide the perfect environment for grass seed germination and growth. The Science of Germination Most grass seed is actually a blend of different species, each with its own unique germination rate. Some species can take up to 30 days to germinate, while others sprout within just a few days. In order to ensure the best possible germination rates, it is important to provide the right conditions for each species of grass in your seed blend. The Benefits of Planting in Late Summer Cooler evenings in late summer and early fall provide the best environment for grass seed germination. This is because the soil temperature is warm enough to promote growth, but not so hot that it dries out the seed and prevents germination. Additionally, planting grass in late summer allows it to establish roots before the harsh winter weather sets in, ensuring a strong, healthy lawn come spring. Another benefit of planting grass in late summer is that it is after the typical weed season. This means that weeds will not be competing with your newly-planted grass for water and nutrients, giving your lawn a better chance to grow and thrive. Choosing the Right Blend for Your Lawn At J and R Property Services, we use and recommend a blended seed engineered for the local climate. This blend includes a variety of grass species that are best suited to the unique growing conditions in Upstate New York, ensuring that your lawn will be healthy and resilient for years to come. If you are looking to establish a lush, healthy lawn in Upstate New York, it's clear that t he best time to plant grass seeds is in late summer. With its favorable conditions for germination, mild temperatures, and ample rainfall, late summer and early fall provide the perfect environment for grass seed growth and establishment. So, if you want to ensure that your lawn is the envy of the neighborhood, be sure to plant your grass seeds in late summer.
Hydrangeas are a beautiful and popular addition to any garden in the Northeast, providing vibrant blooms and lush foliage throughout the growing season. But, like all plants, proper care and maintenance are necessary to keep your hydrangeas healthy and thriving. One of the most important aspects of care is trimming, which can help promote new growth, encourage the development of new flowers, and maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Why Trim Hydrangeas? Trimming your hydrangeas is essential for maintaining their health and beauty. Regular pruning helps promote new growth, which is key to ensuring a healthy plant. Trimming also encourages the development of new flowers, ensuring a vibrant and colorful display throughout the growing season. Additionally, trimming helps maintain the desired shape and size of your hydrangeas, making them a beautiful and functional addition to your garden. When to Trim Hydrangeas? This is a tricky question because unfortunately, there is not a one-size-fits-all answer. In the Northeast, for hydrangeas that bloom on new wood, the best time to trim is in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. This allows you to shape the plant and remove any damaged or dead wood before the growing season begins. Adversely, for hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, such as the Oakleaf Hydrangea (Hydrangea quercifolia) and the Panicle Hydrangea (Hydrangea paniculata), trimming should be done immediately after flowering. This ensures your trimming is not sacrificing many blooming buds. From our experience, it is often improper pruning that is the cause of Hydrangeas not flowering. How to Trim Hydrangeas? When trimming your hydrangeas, it's important to follow a few simple steps to ensure the best results. First, remove any dead or damaged wood, which can detract from the overall appearance of the plant. Next, cut back the previous year's growth to a strong, healthy bud. For hydrangeas that bloom on old wood, cut back the previous year's growth to 2 to 3 buds. For hydrangeas that bloom on new wood, cut back the previous year's growth to a strong, healthy bud. Trimming your hydrangeas is an essential aspect of maintaining a beautiful and healthy garden in the Northeast. Understanding when and how to trim your hydrangeas is key to achieving the best results, and with a few simple steps, you can keep your plants thriving and beautiful for years to come. If you need expert advice on trimming your hydrangeas or any other aspect of landscaping, contact J and R Property Services today!
When it comes to landscaping, the little details can make all the difference. One of the most important of these details is the edging around your garden beds. There are many options available, each with its own pros and cons. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at three popular edging options: traditional trench edging, king edging, and brick edging. Traditional Trench Edging Trench edging is a classic option that involves digging a shallow trench around the perimeter of your garden bed. This trench is then filled with soil, stones, or other materials to create a simple, yet effective border. The biggest advantage of trench edging is that it can be done by hand, so it's a great choice for those who want to save money and enjoy the process of creating their own garden beds. However, trench edging can be susceptible to erosion and is not the most permanent solution. King Edging King edging is a popular choice for those who want a more permanent solution without the hassle of maintenance. This type of edging is made from a sturdy plastic material that is designed to last. It is also designed to be virtually no maintenance, which is a huge plus for busy homeowners. The only downside to king edging is that it can be susceptible to heaving during thaws, but it still remains a popular choice for many. Brick Edging Brick edging is another option that offers a more permanent solution. This type of edging is made from bricks or pavers and is designed to last for many years. One of the biggest advantages of brick edging is that it is virtually no maintenance, making it a set-it-and-forget-it solution. Although it comes with a higher price tag, the appeal of a no-maintenance permanent garden bed boundary leaves many homeowners selecting this option. When it comes to choosing the right edging solution for your garden beds, it all comes down to personal preference and budget. Whether you choose traditional trench edging, king edging, or brick edging, the right choice will help to create a beautiful and well-defined garden bed. So, take your time and consider your options carefully to make the best choice for your landscape. And if you need help, don't hesitate to reach out to J and R Property Services for expert advice.
When it comes to the health and beauty of your lawn and garden, the soil is the foundation upon which everything grows. Understanding the properties and needs of your soil is crucial to creating a lush and thriving landscape. In this article, we'll dive into the science of soil and explore the factors that impact soil health, and what you can do to ensure that your lawn and garden are thriving. Soil Structure Soil structure refers to the arrangement of soil particles in the ground. The structure of soil can be impacted by a variety of factors, including water, air, organic matter, and living organisms. The structure of soil can be described as granular, blocky, platy, or single grained. A soil with a granular structure is loose and easy to work with, while a soil with a blocky structure is more compact and difficult to work with. Soil Texture Soil texture refers to the proportion of sand, silt, and clay in the soil. The texture of soil is an important factor in determining soil fertility, water-holding capacity, and drainage. A soil with a high proportion of sand will drain quickly and have low water-holding capacity, while a soil with a high proportion of clay will drain slowly and have a high water-holding capacity. A soil with a balanced proportion of sand, silt, and clay will have good drainage and water-holding capacity. Soil pH Soil pH is a measure of the acidity or alkalinity of soil. The pH of soil can impact the availability of nutrients to plants, and can also affect the activity of soil microbes. A soil pH of 7.0 is considered neutral, while a soil pH less than 7.0 is considered acidic and a soil pH greater than 7.0 is considered alkaline. Most plants prefer a soil pH between 6.0 and 7.0, but some plants, such as blueberries, prefer a more acidic soil. Organic Matter Organic matter is the decomposed remains of plants and animals in the soil. Organic matter is important because it provides a source of nutrients for plants, improves soil structure, and increases water-holding capacity. Adding organic matter to your soil can be as simple as applying compost or mulch to the surface of the soil, or incorporating it into the soil with a tiller or cultivator. Soil Biology Soil biology refers to the living organisms in the soil, including bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms. Soil biology is important because these organisms play a role in nutrient cycling, soil structure, and plant health. By adding organic matter to your soil and promoting healthy soil biology, you can improve the health and fertility of your soil.  Understanding the science of soil is essential to creating a thriving lawn and garden. By considering soil structure, texture, pH, organic matter, and biology, you can ensure that your soil is providing the foundation for healthy and beautiful plants. If you have any questions or concerns about your soil, or if you need assistance with your landscaping needs, don't hesitate to reach out to J and R Property Services. We are here to help!
Shrub trimming is an important part of maintaining the health and appearance of your landscape. While many homeowners may only think to trim their shrubs once a year, it is actually best to perform this task twice per year in our region. Trimming your shrubs once in late June/early July and again in late September/early October can have a number of benefits for both the shrubs and your landscape as a whole. By trimming your shrubs twice per year, you are promoting healthy growth and encouraging dense, full foliage. The first trimming in late June/early July removes any dead or damaged growth from the spring and allows the shrubs to focus their energy on producing new growth for the rest of the growing season. The second trimming in late September/early October helps to remove any growth that may have become diseased or damaged over the summer and encourages the shrubs to enter winter in a healthy state. It is important to note that not all shrubs should be trimmed at the same time. Some shrubs, such as spring-blooming shrubs, should only be trimmed after they have finished blooming. Trimming these shrubs before they have a chance to bloom can remove their flower buds and reduce the amount of blooms you will see in the spring. Overall, performing shrub trimming twice per year is the best way to maintain the health and appearance of your landscape. Regular trimming will promote healthy growth, encourage dense foliage, and help your shrubs to enter winter in a healthy state. By following these guidelines, you can keep your shrubs looking their best all year long. If you need assistance, be sure to reach out to the friendly staff at J and R Property Services.
A lush and vibrant garden is a beautiful addition to any outdoor space, but maintaining one requires regular care and attention. One of the most important aspects of your property's upkeep is regular bed maintenance, which includes tasks such as weeding, mulching, pruning, deadheading, and replacing or adding new plants as needed. Why is regular bed maintenance so important for your garden? First, it helps control weeds and pests, which can quickly take over your garden and harm your plants. Second, consistent bed maintenance promotes healthy plant growth by providing the right conditions for your plants to thrive. Finally, a well-maintained garden bed enhances the overall appearance of your garden, making it a more inviting and attractive space. While you can perform bed maintenance yourself, there are many benefits to using a professional landscaping company. A professional landscaper has the expertise and experience to know what your garden needs, as well as access to the right tools and equipment to get the job done right. Plus, with professional bed maintenance, you can ensure that your garden receives consistent and thorough maintenance, which is essential for keeping it looking its best. If you want a lush and vibrant garden, regular bed maintenance is a must. By using a professional landscaping company, you can enjoy all the benefits of expert knowledge, access to the right tools, and consistent and thorough maintenance. If you're looking for the best results for your garden, consider contacting J and R Property Services for your bed maintenance needs.
When it comes to landscaping your property, you have two options: doing it yourself or hiring a professional landscape design company. Both have their pros and cons, and it's important to understand what each option entails before making a decision. In this article, we'll dive into the key differences between DIY and professional landscape design to help you make an informed choice. DIY Landscape Design DIY landscape design is a popular option for those who enjoy hands-on projects and have a knack for design. With the abundance of resources available online, it's easier than ever to research and plan your own landscape design. Some of the benefits of DIY landscape design include: Cost savings: By doing the work yourself, you can save money on labor costs. Flexibility: With DIY, you have the freedom to make changes to your design as you go and can personalize your landscape to your exact specifications. Sense of accomplishment: Completing a DIY project can be rewarding and give you a sense of pride in your property. However, there are also some drawbacks to consider. DIY landscape design can be time-consuming and physically demanding, and there's always the risk of making mistakes that could negatively impact your property. Additionally, if you're not familiar with local regulations and requirements, you could end up breaking the law and facing penalties. Professional Landscape Design Professional landscape design offers many benefits, including expertise, efficiency, and high-quality results. Some of the key advantages of hiring a professional landscape design company include: Expertise: Professional landscape designers have the knowledge and experience to create a customized design that meets your needs and enhances the beauty and functionality of your property. Efficiency: A professional landscape design company can complete the project faster than you could on your own, freeing up your time to focus on other things. High-quality results: With professional landscape design, you can be confident that the end result will be beautiful, functional, and meet all local regulations. Of course, there are also some drawbacks to consider, such as cost and less flexibility in the design process. However, the expertise and high-quality results of a professional landscape design company can often make up for these drawbacks. Conclusion Whether you choose DIY or professional landscape design, it's important to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each option. Consider your personal skills, budget, and desired outcome when making your decision. If you're unsure, it may be a good idea to consult with a professional landscape design company like J and R Property Services for guidance. With their expertise and experience, they can help you create the perfect landscape design for your property.
When it comes to landscaping, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right ground cover for your garden beds. Two popular options are landscape stone and mulch, each with its own unique pros and cons. Landscape Stone Landscape stone is a long-lasting and durable option for your garden beds. It's low maintenance, requiring no regular reapplication, and adds a modern, clean look to your landscape. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Landscape stone can be hot to the touch in direct sunlight, which can make it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Additionally, the hard surface can be tough on feet and the cost of the stone can be high. Maybe Mulch? On the other hand, mulch is a great option for retaining moisture in soil and suppressing weeds. As it decomposes, it adds organic matter to the soil. However, it does need to be reapplied every year and can attract pests such as termites and rodents. Additionally, heavy rains can wash mulch away, making it necessary to reapply more frequently in certain areas. Why not both? Many homeowners have turned to the benefits of using both in their designs! Whether it be a dry river bed running through a mulch bed, or clearly separated beds, the marriage of mulch and stone can add a touch of natural beauty and curb appeal without having to add more plants. When choosing between landscape stone and mulch, it's important to consider your budget, the look you want to achieve, and your maintenance preferences. If you're looking for a low-maintenance option that will last for years, landscape stone may be the right choice for you. However, if you're looking for a solution that will help improve the health of your soil, mulch may be a better option. No matter what you choose, it's important to work with a knowledgeable and experienced landscaping contractor. At J and R Property Services, we can help you make the right choice for your landscape and provide expert advice and installation services. Contact us today to learn more!
Gardening can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby, but maintaining a pristine and weed-free garden can be a never-ending battle. Weeding can be time-consuming and backbreaking work, but what if we told you there's a way to control weeds with minimal effort? Enter the Preen and Round Up Method. Preen is a preemergent herbicide that prevents weed seeds from germinating, while Round Up is a non-selective herbicide that kills existing weeds. When used together, these two products can give you the ultimate weed control solution for your garden. Here's how to use the Preen and Round Up Method: Step 1: Apply Preen The first step is to apply Preen to your garden beds. Preen works by creating a barrier in the soil that prevents weed seeds from germinating. It is important to apply Preen before weeds start to grow, so make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label. You should also make sure to apply Preen evenly to the entire garden bed. Step 2: Control existing weeds with Round Up If you already have weeds growing in your garden, it's time to break out the Round Up. Round Up is a non-selective herbicide that kills almost any type of weed. You can use a spray bottle or a pump sprayer to apply Round Up to the weeds. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the label and be careful not to let the spray drift onto desirable plants. Step 3: Repeat the process as needed To maintain weed control in your garden, you will need to reapply Preen and Round Up as needed. Preen lasts for about 8-12 weeks, so you will need to reapply it at least once per season. Round Up can last for up to several weeks, but you may need to reapply it more frequently if you have a lot of weeds. The Preen and Round Up Method is a simple and effective way to control weeds in your garden. By using these two products together, you can enjoy a weed-free garden with minimal effort. So, put down the hoe and get ready to take the lazy gardener's approach to weed control. In conclusion, the Preen and Round Up Method is a great solution for gardeners who want to enjoy a beautiful garden without having to spend hours weeding. Just remember to follow the manufacturer's instructions, apply the products as needed, and you'll be on your way to effortless weed control. Happy gardening!
