Entries by Brad Ryan

Fall is the Perfect Time to Sod Your Lawn

While spring is often considered to be the ideal time for sodding a lawn, it can also be done successfully in the fall.  Just remember to plant the sod well before the first expected frost of the season.  This way the roots establish before it gets too cold.  The basic steps for laying sod include: […]

Is Your Yard Ready for the First Frost?

As temperatures in the DC area grow cooler and cooler, we can expect the first frost of the season soon.  According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the average date for the first frost is November 15th.  Is your yard ready?  Preparing your yard each year for the dropping temperatures can help preserve your gardens and […]

Common Fall Pests

While the cooler temperatures of fall can provide relief from the heat of summer, there are still some pests you might encounter on your lawn and in your gardens.  Here are the most common fall pests and what to look for: Slugs and Snails The best way to tell if you have slugs and snails […]

Fast Growing Plants – Pros and Cons

There are times that you may want to fill your yard quickly with a landscape that looks like it has been there for years.  While adding fast growing plants can certainly provide instant gratification, they also bring on some challenges to consider. The Upside to an Instant Garden Whether you own a new-construction home that […]

Incorporating Privacy into Your Landscape Design

Your yard is an extension of your home.  It is a private space to retreat, relax, and escape the rest of the world.  However, unless you live on a sprawling parcel of land where neighbors are a far off distance away, privacy can be challenging.  There is good news, however.  You can create a private […]

Vertical Garden Design

A vertical garden can be created in a variety of ways and for a variety of purposes.  Perhaps you want to add greenery to a small space.  Or there is a wall or fence that you would like to hide.  Of course, you may just simply enjoy the look of a vertical garden.  Whatever the […]

Outdoor Kitchen Tips and Suggestions

Tips for an Inviting Outdoor Kitchen Whether it is for a big meal or simple conversation, the kitchen is a spot that everyone loves to gather. But why have only one kitchen space when you can have two? On those days when the weather is clear and crisp, who wants to stay indoors? Extend your […]

All About Annuals – Brightening Your Landscaping

Annual flowers add color to your yard, but need to be replanted each year. However, they are appealing because of their versatility. Annuals bloom in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and sizes and are great to plant in the summer months because they love the heat. Ways to Incorporate Annuals There are numerous types of […]

How to Create a Welcoming Garden for Birds

Gardening for wildlife is an eco-friendly way to create an enjoyable space.  It also preserves the habitat of the creatures you share it with.  Why should you share your garden with our winged friends?   Not only is it a pleasure to watch and listen to them, birds keep the bug population under control – some species […]

3 Simple Steps to Create a Yard that Reflects Your Personality

A yard is an extension of your home, and subsequently, yourself.  Do the objects and furniture inside your home reflect your unique style and personality?  Extend this same look to your property by following these simple steps: Step 1: Have Fun with Yard Accents Look for things to place outside your home that bring a smile […]