About the Company
How long have you been in business?
We’ve been in Atlanta since 1988. Prior to that, we had a business in New Orleans, LA. If you want to know more details and information about education, experience, etc. look for Danna Cain’s profile on LinkedIn
What kind of warranty/guarantee is offered?
Plant material:
A one-year warranty is offered provided that the plants are watered and cared for properly. We will give you instructions at our final walkthrough. You’ll also receive our 100 page “Gardening Guide” and our monthly newsletter that contains month-by-month advice. During the first year, you get free “tech support”. If there’s a problem with a plant, let us know. We’ll stop by as soon as we’re in the area to check out what’s happening. We’d rather save a plant, than loose a plant, so do keep us posted.
We rarely need to replace plants because we put so much effort into hand selecting the best plants. Our crews handle the plants gently and carefully nestle each one into properly prepared, raised planting beds. Because of the type of bed prep we do, we rarely loose a plant due to bad drainage or other problems caused by planting directly into Georgia red clay.
In the sad occasion that there’s a bad plant or one that suffered undue stress during transport, it will normally die within 6 weeks. Most others that die after that are usually because of too much, or too little water.
Our contract states that the plant warranty is void if you don’t have a properly designed and functioning automatic irrigation system. If you happen to be a person who is a great gardener and diligent about hand watering, and simply can not afford an automatic system, then we’ll still replace a ‘bad’ plant that dies. You need to trust us that we can tell when a plant hasn’t been watered properly. Those clients who are planning to rely on hand watering should consider that during the hottest, driest part of summer, certain plants could die from inadequate water in just two days or over a weekend. This is of particular concern for clients who travel a lot or simply go on a summer vacation. We highly recommend an efficient and properly designed automatic irrigation system as a bad one can cause more harm than good.
Hardscape:
The type of warranty for hardscape depends upon what is being built and will be addressed on a per-project basis. We use only the best craftsmen and watch them, like hawks, to ensure that the critical aspects, such as foundations, have the utmost integrity and are in full compliance with all applicable codes. All workmanship is warranted. The materials are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
If “materials” fail under provisions of the manufacturer’s warranty, then they usually supply new materials however, they don’t supply the labor to remove the defective materials and install the new ones. If you read the full exclusions on any warranty you’ll see that this applies. In such cases, HGD will give you a proposal to switch out the materials.
We’ve been in Atlanta since 1988. Prior to that, we had a business in New Orleans, LA. If you want to know more details and information about education, experience, etc. look for Danna Cain’s profile on LinkedIn
What kind of warranty/guarantee is offered?
Plant material:
A one-year warranty is offered provided that the plants are watered and cared for properly. We will give you instructions at our final walkthrough. You’ll also receive our 100 page “Gardening Guide” and our monthly newsletter that contains month-by-month advice. During the first year, you get free “tech support”. If there’s a problem with a plant, let us know. We’ll stop by as soon as we’re in the area to check out what’s happening. We’d rather save a plant, than loose a plant, so do keep us posted.
We rarely need to replace plants because we put so much effort into hand selecting the best plants. Our crews handle the plants gently and carefully nestle each one into properly prepared, raised planting beds. Because of the type of bed prep we do, we rarely loose a plant due to bad drainage or other problems caused by planting directly into Georgia red clay.
In the sad occasion that there’s a bad plant or one that suffered undue stress during transport, it will normally die within 6 weeks. Most others that die after that are usually because of too much, or too little water.
Our contract states that the plant warranty is void if you don’t have a properly designed and functioning automatic irrigation system. If you happen to be a person who is a great gardener and diligent about hand watering, and simply can not afford an automatic system, then we’ll still replace a ‘bad’ plant that dies. You need to trust us that we can tell when a plant hasn’t been watered properly. Those clients who are planning to rely on hand watering should consider that during the hottest, driest part of summer, certain plants could die from inadequate water in just two days or over a weekend. This is of particular concern for clients who travel a lot or simply go on a summer vacation. We highly recommend an efficient and properly designed automatic irrigation system as a bad one can cause more harm than good.
Hardscape:
The type of warranty for hardscape depends upon what is being built and will be addressed on a per-project basis. We use only the best craftsmen and watch them, like hawks, to ensure that the critical aspects, such as foundations, have the utmost integrity and are in full compliance with all applicable codes. All workmanship is warranted. The materials are covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
If “materials” fail under provisions of the manufacturer’s warranty, then they usually supply new materials however, they don’t supply the labor to remove the defective materials and install the new ones. If you read the full exclusions on any warranty you’ll see that this applies. In such cases, HGD will give you a proposal to switch out the materials.
About our Initial Consultation
Can you come out after 4pm or on weekends?
For Initial Consultations and General Consultations:
Yes; however, the fee is higher because these appointments are so limited and in such high demand. Initial consultation rates quoted are for appointments during “normal” business hours defined as Monday thru Friday, 9am - 3pm. We're factoring in our travel time and time needed for the consultation itself when establishing those hours. Initial consultations held earlier or later or on Saturday will be quoted at a higher rate. We do not work on Sundays.
For Plan Presentations and all other appointments: Yes. Once we're under contract, we make appointments as convenient as possible; however, since these appointments book up so quick and far in advance, the process can be sped up if you can meet during normal business hours. We do not work on Sundays.
Can I schedule an Initial Consultation for 8am?
Yes. Whether we can accommodate on the day you desire, depends upon your location and where our crew is working that week. For example, if our current job under construction is in Suwanee and you desire an initial consultation in Vinings at 8am, it's most likely not going to be feasible because our earliest hours of the day are typically spent making sure our crew and subcontractors are on the right track. Mondays will never work. Thursdays and Fridays are always best.
Can you come over today or tomorrow?
Probably not, unless we just happen to be in your neighborhood consulting with another client that day. Appointments need to be scheduled in advance. How far in advance, depends upon our current workload. In slow seasons, we can usually meet you within a week. During peak seasons of Spring and Fall, you can expect to wait longer.
Who will come out for the Initial Consultation?
One of the owners of the company will be happy to meet with you. Majority of the time, it will be Danna Cain, our landscape architect & garden designer. If your project is mostly construction or drainage related, Conrad Cain may be sent. He's a state licensed residential contractor.
Do you do free estimates?
For plans we designed:
Yes, once the plans are complete, we're happy to provide a free estimate for the first phase of your project.
For plans designed by other companies:
We typically do not bid on plans prepared by others; however, we're willing to consider it IF it's to-scale, well designed & a sufficiently detailed plan. Keep in mind that we are rarely the lowest “bidder” so if cheap is what you are looking for, don't bother. If instead, you like our methods of good bed prep, organic soil, premium plants expertly placed and craftsman quality hardscape, we're the perfect contractor for you! Please send us a copy of the plans along with a description of what you want to have done, budget and timeline.
Can you send someone over to give me some ideas ?
Yes, and there will be a fee for that. Review descriptions and fees for Initial Consultations and General Consultations to determine what fits your needs the best. If confused, contact us to discuss further.
For Initial Consultations and General Consultations:
Yes; however, the fee is higher because these appointments are so limited and in such high demand. Initial consultation rates quoted are for appointments during “normal” business hours defined as Monday thru Friday, 9am - 3pm. We're factoring in our travel time and time needed for the consultation itself when establishing those hours. Initial consultations held earlier or later or on Saturday will be quoted at a higher rate. We do not work on Sundays.
For Plan Presentations and all other appointments: Yes. Once we're under contract, we make appointments as convenient as possible; however, since these appointments book up so quick and far in advance, the process can be sped up if you can meet during normal business hours. We do not work on Sundays.
Can I schedule an Initial Consultation for 8am?
Yes. Whether we can accommodate on the day you desire, depends upon your location and where our crew is working that week. For example, if our current job under construction is in Suwanee and you desire an initial consultation in Vinings at 8am, it's most likely not going to be feasible because our earliest hours of the day are typically spent making sure our crew and subcontractors are on the right track. Mondays will never work. Thursdays and Fridays are always best.
Can you come over today or tomorrow?
Probably not, unless we just happen to be in your neighborhood consulting with another client that day. Appointments need to be scheduled in advance. How far in advance, depends upon our current workload. In slow seasons, we can usually meet you within a week. During peak seasons of Spring and Fall, you can expect to wait longer.
Who will come out for the Initial Consultation?
One of the owners of the company will be happy to meet with you. Majority of the time, it will be Danna Cain, our landscape architect & garden designer. If your project is mostly construction or drainage related, Conrad Cain may be sent. He's a state licensed residential contractor.
Do you do free estimates?
For plans we designed:
Yes, once the plans are complete, we're happy to provide a free estimate for the first phase of your project.
For plans designed by other companies:
We typically do not bid on plans prepared by others; however, we're willing to consider it IF it's to-scale, well designed & a sufficiently detailed plan. Keep in mind that we are rarely the lowest “bidder” so if cheap is what you are looking for, don't bother. If instead, you like our methods of good bed prep, organic soil, premium plants expertly placed and craftsman quality hardscape, we're the perfect contractor for you! Please send us a copy of the plans along with a description of what you want to have done, budget and timeline.
Can you send someone over to give me some ideas ?
Yes, and there will be a fee for that. Review descriptions and fees for Initial Consultations and General Consultations to determine what fits your needs the best. If confused, contact us to discuss further.
About Design Plans
Do you have a flat rate for a doing a design plan?
No, we do not have a flat rate per design or per acre. Our work is far more comprehensive than that of designers who charge that way. The fee for your design will be based upon the scope and complexity of your specific project. We urge you to view samples of our plans to see how in-depth they are. Don't be fooled by other's plans that contain only basic information and are colored to “wow” you.
Do you charge by the hour?
The fee that we quote to you will be based upon our current hourly fee. We've been doing this for so many years, and know how long it will take to get plans done. We use that knowledge to calculate a price for you. We think it's better to just give you a contract price rather than to quote an hourly rate, leaving you to wonder how many hours it will take to complete the work. This way you know exactly what your commitment is. Besides, we feel that an hourly rate can be very misleading. Someone with as much experience as our landscape architect & garden designer can get a lot more done in an hour then someone with less experience.
Can you provide me with a design plan that works within my budget?
Yes, We're very conscious of the need to work within a client's budget. Our design process was setup to keep always keep the budget in mind. We'll give you ideas of different directions and budget ranges. Before the design begins, we'll come to a decision, together, on a direction that makes sense. For example, so many people want to terrace their back yard but this usually involves a lot of very costly walls. If your budget can't afford that, we will look for a way to give you the use areas you need without so many walls. Keep in mind that our design process first addresses the size, shape and location of use areas. These use areas can then be detailed to fit your budget. For example, you might be dreaming of a bluestone patio but this exceeds your budget. Other options would be pavers, or gravel with a stone border.
The choice of materials doesn't change the design. It still functions as a pretty destination and stable place for table and chairs.
Must I design the plants for the entire yard at one time?
No, we can focus on one area or one "garden room" at a time. Some people on very limited budgets choose to proceed that way so that more of their currently available funds go towards something planted rather than design fees. Keep in mind, however, that when designed in pieces, the total design fee will end up being higher because there will be far more trips and meetings involved. If you can afford to do so, we recommend the cost-efficient approach of designing the entire yard at the same time, or at most, separating the front and rear yard. From a designer's perspective this is also preferred, because it's easier to find the best location for desired plants.
What if I don't like what you design?
We've never had to go back to the drawing board and start over. It simply doesn't happen because our design process doesn't allow it to happen. Major changes aren't needed because we discuss your desires in-depth, listen to what you've said then use a step-by-step design process. We start very conceptually and then layer in more and more information and details as you've approved the critical aspects of the design. A typical amount of time for tweaking the design is built into the contract. If somehow you really hate what we've designed together, we'll take the plans back and refund your money. Though this has never happened since we developed our unique design process.
Am I obligated to use you to build the project?
No. We do build majority of what we design, though you're not, in any way, obligated to us for that. The design plans are yours to do with as you please. We hope that after we've worked together thru the development of these plans that you feel so comfortable with us that you won't want to go elsewhere for the construction. Besides, we'll know your project better than anyone else ever could at that point.
Can I install parts of the project myself?
Can I hire you to do only the hard parts of the installation?
Yes. Many cost conscious clients or gardening enthusiasts approach their project this way. Some people will have their builder install the hardscape. Many people hire us to do only the hard work of grading, drainage and bed prep. Some have us plant only the large trees and shrubs. In these later instances, gardening is a lot more fun and you'll have a greater success rate with the plants you install yourself.
What percentage of your plans do you typically build?
We build about 75% of the plans we've created. 20% never get built for reasons linked to that family's situation such as divorce, surprise pregnancy or their job relocates them to a new city. 5% decide to have someone else build their project, usually due to a lower bid. Most of those end up coming back to us and say they wish they had had us build it after all. See some of these comments on our Kudzu.com reviews.
No, we do not have a flat rate per design or per acre. Our work is far more comprehensive than that of designers who charge that way. The fee for your design will be based upon the scope and complexity of your specific project. We urge you to view samples of our plans to see how in-depth they are. Don't be fooled by other's plans that contain only basic information and are colored to “wow” you.
Do you charge by the hour?
The fee that we quote to you will be based upon our current hourly fee. We've been doing this for so many years, and know how long it will take to get plans done. We use that knowledge to calculate a price for you. We think it's better to just give you a contract price rather than to quote an hourly rate, leaving you to wonder how many hours it will take to complete the work. This way you know exactly what your commitment is. Besides, we feel that an hourly rate can be very misleading. Someone with as much experience as our landscape architect & garden designer can get a lot more done in an hour then someone with less experience.
Can you provide me with a design plan that works within my budget?
Yes, We're very conscious of the need to work within a client's budget. Our design process was setup to keep always keep the budget in mind. We'll give you ideas of different directions and budget ranges. Before the design begins, we'll come to a decision, together, on a direction that makes sense. For example, so many people want to terrace their back yard but this usually involves a lot of very costly walls. If your budget can't afford that, we will look for a way to give you the use areas you need without so many walls. Keep in mind that our design process first addresses the size, shape and location of use areas. These use areas can then be detailed to fit your budget. For example, you might be dreaming of a bluestone patio but this exceeds your budget. Other options would be pavers, or gravel with a stone border.
The choice of materials doesn't change the design. It still functions as a pretty destination and stable place for table and chairs.
Must I design the plants for the entire yard at one time?
No, we can focus on one area or one "garden room" at a time. Some people on very limited budgets choose to proceed that way so that more of their currently available funds go towards something planted rather than design fees. Keep in mind, however, that when designed in pieces, the total design fee will end up being higher because there will be far more trips and meetings involved. If you can afford to do so, we recommend the cost-efficient approach of designing the entire yard at the same time, or at most, separating the front and rear yard. From a designer's perspective this is also preferred, because it's easier to find the best location for desired plants.
What if I don't like what you design?
We've never had to go back to the drawing board and start over. It simply doesn't happen because our design process doesn't allow it to happen. Major changes aren't needed because we discuss your desires in-depth, listen to what you've said then use a step-by-step design process. We start very conceptually and then layer in more and more information and details as you've approved the critical aspects of the design. A typical amount of time for tweaking the design is built into the contract. If somehow you really hate what we've designed together, we'll take the plans back and refund your money. Though this has never happened since we developed our unique design process.
Am I obligated to use you to build the project?
No. We do build majority of what we design, though you're not, in any way, obligated to us for that. The design plans are yours to do with as you please. We hope that after we've worked together thru the development of these plans that you feel so comfortable with us that you won't want to go elsewhere for the construction. Besides, we'll know your project better than anyone else ever could at that point.
Can I install parts of the project myself?
Can I hire you to do only the hard parts of the installation?
Yes. Many cost conscious clients or gardening enthusiasts approach their project this way. Some people will have their builder install the hardscape. Many people hire us to do only the hard work of grading, drainage and bed prep. Some have us plant only the large trees and shrubs. In these later instances, gardening is a lot more fun and you'll have a greater success rate with the plants you install yourself.
What percentage of your plans do you typically build?
We build about 75% of the plans we've created. 20% never get built for reasons linked to that family's situation such as divorce, surprise pregnancy or their job relocates them to a new city. 5% decide to have someone else build their project, usually due to a lower bid. Most of those end up coming back to us and say they wish they had had us build it after all. See some of these comments on our Kudzu.com reviews.
About Installation, Construction and Maintenance
Can I install my project in phases?
Yes, most people do. We'll help you choose the phases based upon your budget, priorities, time of year, and site access. Often, site access will determine what must be completed first. Refer to minimum size projects on the subpage: Services, Fees & Processes. Then go to the accordian page: Overview.
Can I start building my project with only the “Conceptual Master Plan“?
You can begin demolition, tree removals, layout, bed preparation and most hardscape construction at this point. The beauty of having this plan is that you can build all of the above or just one element knowing that all subsequent elements will fit together.
Do you provide written estimates and contracts?
Yes, however only after the design is complete and all “take-offs”, quantities & materials have been determined. We provide written proposals that list all materials and work to be done with a bottom-line price. We will provide a price for the "core project" along with options that you can pick and choose for upgrades. The proposal and contract will be cross-referenced to the plan to indicate the areas that we are working on. This way you know exactly what to expect. We aim to communicate clearly and help every way we can. Some clients prefer to have estimates provided along with Conceptual Design Options. This can be an advantage when the design choice is price driven. In these circumstances, ballpark estimates may be provided as an interim step and for each design. This takes time to assemble. If this is desired, it must be agreed upon at the time the design services are proposed.
Do you do maintenance?
We don't mow lawns.
We do not offer a weekly or monthly maintenance contract.
We are available to assist in other ways by teaching you what to do or overseeing the work of others. Certain types of pruning tasks can be addressed as a small project or as a landscape overhaul. Go to the subpage on this website “Services, Processes and Fees”, then the accordian tab “Maintenance” for more information.
Yes, most people do. We'll help you choose the phases based upon your budget, priorities, time of year, and site access. Often, site access will determine what must be completed first. Refer to minimum size projects on the subpage: Services, Fees & Processes. Then go to the accordian page: Overview.
Can I start building my project with only the “Conceptual Master Plan“?
You can begin demolition, tree removals, layout, bed preparation and most hardscape construction at this point. The beauty of having this plan is that you can build all of the above or just one element knowing that all subsequent elements will fit together.
Do you provide written estimates and contracts?
Yes, however only after the design is complete and all “take-offs”, quantities & materials have been determined. We provide written proposals that list all materials and work to be done with a bottom-line price. We will provide a price for the "core project" along with options that you can pick and choose for upgrades. The proposal and contract will be cross-referenced to the plan to indicate the areas that we are working on. This way you know exactly what to expect. We aim to communicate clearly and help every way we can. Some clients prefer to have estimates provided along with Conceptual Design Options. This can be an advantage when the design choice is price driven. In these circumstances, ballpark estimates may be provided as an interim step and for each design. This takes time to assemble. If this is desired, it must be agreed upon at the time the design services are proposed.
Do you do maintenance?
We don't mow lawns.
We do not offer a weekly or monthly maintenance contract.
We are available to assist in other ways by teaching you what to do or overseeing the work of others. Certain types of pruning tasks can be addressed as a small project or as a landscape overhaul. Go to the subpage on this website “Services, Processes and Fees”, then the accordian tab “Maintenance” for more information.
About Our Process
Where do we start?
Go to the “Contact Us” tab at the top of the website, near our logo. Please complete & return the form so that we can determine if we seem to be a good match. This will also give us your address, idea of what time you’re available to meet, as well as an overview of your goals and budget. You can also request this form by sending us an email or leaving a message at 770-938-6688. One of us will call you back to discuss your project further and schedule a consultation. You’ll then be sent information to help you to prepare for our first meeting.
What types of consultations do you offer?
An “Initial Consultation” is used for the purpose of getting acquainted with you and your potential project, then providing a design proposal for the first step in the design/build process.
A “General Consultation” is for any other purpose or for do-it-yourselfers.
Fees vary pending upon distance, time of day, day of week, etc.
Can you explain a “general consultation” in more detail?
This type of consultation is intended to give you an immediate, on-the-spot answer to a specific, limited need, problem or question. At times, it will involve designing a small part of the yard. This usually requires a site meeting, however, certain issues or questions can be handled by telephone or email.
At this type of consultation, you will lead the questioning. We encourage you to begin with your highest priority first as the fee quoted will be for the first hour. At the end of the first hour, you will be asked if you want to continue. Fees for additional time will be pro-rated in 15-minute increments. Follow-up services such as sending resources, website links or photos are billed at same rate. Typical general consultations center on one or a few of the following situations; however, it can be centered on whatever your problem is.
Some examples are ……
• What can I plant in this void that will live here?
• I want to add an island here. Please design it.
• I want to add an herb garden. Where is there enough sun? Please design it. • Why are these shrubs dying? • How do I prune these shrubs and trees? • How can I solve my drainage problem? • Should these trees be removed? • Would you evaluate/critique this landscape plan?
Go to the “Contact Us” tab at the top of the website, near our logo. Please complete & return the form so that we can determine if we seem to be a good match. This will also give us your address, idea of what time you’re available to meet, as well as an overview of your goals and budget. You can also request this form by sending us an email or leaving a message at 770-938-6688. One of us will call you back to discuss your project further and schedule a consultation. You’ll then be sent information to help you to prepare for our first meeting.
What types of consultations do you offer?
An “Initial Consultation” is used for the purpose of getting acquainted with you and your potential project, then providing a design proposal for the first step in the design/build process.
A “General Consultation” is for any other purpose or for do-it-yourselfers.
Fees vary pending upon distance, time of day, day of week, etc.
Can you explain a “general consultation” in more detail?
This type of consultation is intended to give you an immediate, on-the-spot answer to a specific, limited need, problem or question. At times, it will involve designing a small part of the yard. This usually requires a site meeting, however, certain issues or questions can be handled by telephone or email.
At this type of consultation, you will lead the questioning. We encourage you to begin with your highest priority first as the fee quoted will be for the first hour. At the end of the first hour, you will be asked if you want to continue. Fees for additional time will be pro-rated in 15-minute increments. Follow-up services such as sending resources, website links or photos are billed at same rate. Typical general consultations center on one or a few of the following situations; however, it can be centered on whatever your problem is.
Some examples are ……
• What can I plant in this void that will live here?
• I want to add an island here. Please design it.
• I want to add an herb garden. Where is there enough sun? Please design it. • Why are these shrubs dying? • How do I prune these shrubs and trees? • How can I solve my drainage problem? • Should these trees be removed? • Would you evaluate/critique this landscape plan?
About Payment
What is your typical payment schedule?
For Design / Plans:
Design fees are typically 50% down and 50% on completion.
For Construction / Installation:
Small contracts are typically 50% down and 50% on completion.
Larger projects will have a smaller down payment, progress payments then a payment on completion. This will be determined based upon construction flow and length of time it will take to complete the project.
Can I pay with a credit card?
All fees quoted in contracts are based upon check or cash. If you desire to use a credit card, we can accommodate that via PayPal. The applicable user fee would be added to your bill.
For Design / Plans:
Design fees are typically 50% down and 50% on completion.
For Construction / Installation:
Small contracts are typically 50% down and 50% on completion.
Larger projects will have a smaller down payment, progress payments then a payment on completion. This will be determined based upon construction flow and length of time it will take to complete the project.
Can I pay with a credit card?
All fees quoted in contracts are based upon check or cash. If you desire to use a credit card, we can accommodate that via PayPal. The applicable user fee would be added to your bill.
About Being Green, Eco Friendly, Organic, Sustainable, Water Wise
Does your company offer eco friendly choices?
Yes, we have been “green” pioneers and advocates for the benefits of being water-wise, sustainable and organic long before it became trendy. We don't just say that we are as many others do. We truly embrace that lifestyle. Being green is more than just installing a few rain barrels, using compost or buying materials from sustainable resources. It's an integrated system. With our palette of over 100 eco-friendly proven solutions, we design, reclaim and recycle landscapes and hardscapes, into healthy environments for family, pets and wildlife. We'll provide you with options so that you can choose how “green” you want to be and we can educate you on how to maintain your landscape without the use of chemicals.
Do you use native plants and low maintenance plants?
Yes. For native plant enthusiasts, we will design with all native plants. For all other clients we will integrate plants that are proven to be adaptable, drought tolerant and low maintenance for our area. We avoid any plants that are conducive to certain harmful insects and diseases. For example, we won't use euonymus, Otto luyken laurels, or other similarly problematic plants that require chemical life support.
Do you do Xeriscaping?
How else do you make your designs water efficient?
Yes. We do the following:
Small or no lawns with efficient irrigation and good soil When a client must have a lawn such as for children or pets, we highly recommend that the lawn have a good soil base so it can set deep roots, thus be the most drought tolerant it can be. We also separate all lawn areas from bed areas when determining irrigation zones. This gives the ability to apply only the water that's needed to each area.
Group plants by their watering needs (this is the basis of xeriscaping). This provides the ability to set watering time shorter for the most drought tolerant plants or for plants in the shade. This also allows irrigation in certain areas to be turned OFF once the plants are established.
Pre-plan for efficient irrigation such as for drip irrigation and high efficiency micro spray heads to “fit” those beds and the specific needs of the plants.
Integrate a rain collection system, weather monitoring station and other state-of-the-art systems for the highest efficiency water use.
Prep the planting areas with organic soil and amendments. This allows the plants to set deeper roots which will make them more drought tolerant.
Choose drought tolerant plants and provide exceptional drainage for them so they don't drown when we have excessive rain.
Yes, we have been “green” pioneers and advocates for the benefits of being water-wise, sustainable and organic long before it became trendy. We don't just say that we are as many others do. We truly embrace that lifestyle. Being green is more than just installing a few rain barrels, using compost or buying materials from sustainable resources. It's an integrated system. With our palette of over 100 eco-friendly proven solutions, we design, reclaim and recycle landscapes and hardscapes, into healthy environments for family, pets and wildlife. We'll provide you with options so that you can choose how “green” you want to be and we can educate you on how to maintain your landscape without the use of chemicals.
Do you use native plants and low maintenance plants?
Yes. For native plant enthusiasts, we will design with all native plants. For all other clients we will integrate plants that are proven to be adaptable, drought tolerant and low maintenance for our area. We avoid any plants that are conducive to certain harmful insects and diseases. For example, we won't use euonymus, Otto luyken laurels, or other similarly problematic plants that require chemical life support.
Do you do Xeriscaping?
How else do you make your designs water efficient?
Yes. We do the following:
Small or no lawns with efficient irrigation and good soil When a client must have a lawn such as for children or pets, we highly recommend that the lawn have a good soil base so it can set deep roots, thus be the most drought tolerant it can be. We also separate all lawn areas from bed areas when determining irrigation zones. This gives the ability to apply only the water that's needed to each area.
Group plants by their watering needs (this is the basis of xeriscaping). This provides the ability to set watering time shorter for the most drought tolerant plants or for plants in the shade. This also allows irrigation in certain areas to be turned OFF once the plants are established.
Pre-plan for efficient irrigation such as for drip irrigation and high efficiency micro spray heads to “fit” those beds and the specific needs of the plants.
Integrate a rain collection system, weather monitoring station and other state-of-the-art systems for the highest efficiency water use.
Prep the planting areas with organic soil and amendments. This allows the plants to set deeper roots which will make them more drought tolerant.
Choose drought tolerant plants and provide exceptional drainage for them so they don't drown when we have excessive rain.