This is an example of a mid-sized southwestern partial sun backyard formal garden in Albuquerque.

This palatial River Oaks estate embodies a neoteric, mediterranean influence. The backyard boasts an ornate, poolside retreat. Container grown Italian cypress and spiral juniper add interesting visual elements and a grand, ivy-covered wall give the space a geometric, art deco appeal. Ivy arches, carved columns, and sharply pruned boxwood spheres create a stunning, yet cohesive, impact.

During the summer, certain tree pests are particularly active and bent on the destruction of your beloved trees. Spider mites are one of these pests that like to make themselves at home all over your plants. Their only goal in life is to eat plant leaves. A great way to stop their destruction is being able to recognize the warning signs of their infestation. Once you have identified them, you can take care of them and put in precautions in order to keep them away and stop any future problems from them. We here at Five Star Tree Services have come up with ways that you can identify this pest and get rid of it before it’s too late for your precious plants. Some Info on Spider Mites You might have seen these little pests before but didn’t know what they were. They are these tiny creatures that are related to ticks and spiders. What They Look Like In order to see them properly, you will need to look at them through a magnifying glass. These little bugs come in a number of different patterns and colours. Being so incredibly small, they are roughly a millimeter at the most. For reverence, that’s about as thick as your credit card. Trying to look at them without a magnifying glass, all you might see are these tiny moving dots that might be brown, red, black, or yellow. Causes of Spider Mites Due to their shier tininess, these little invaders can waltz right into your gardens undetected. It’s even possible that you have bought a plant for a nursery or garden center that has had spider mites on them. They can even be brought into your garden by the wind. These little pests have the ability to spread very quickly due to their ability to eat a number of different plants. They are not very picky when it comes to eating your plants. They like outdoor and indoor plants, deciduous and evergreen, virtually nothing is safe from them. How To Tell You Have Spider Mites Spider mites prefer to cut and feed on the bottoms of tree leaves, however, the damage they do can be seen at the top of the leaf. Three key things to look for that indicate you have a spider mite infestations are: Yellowing or bronze look to your tree in one or many different areas (common with a big infestation) Silky webs that are woven around the leaves and stems Little yellow or white spots appearing at the top of the leaves/needles If you are suspicious that your plant has spider mites, one way to know for sure is holding a sheet of paper under an infected branch and shaking it. You will be able to see the little mites on the paper. Rid Your Plants of Spider Mites Whether it’s the summer or winter, follow these tips for treating spider mites. Summer: You can use a forceful water spray to knock them off of your tree. Once they are gone, periodically use your hose to rinse your trees for the season. Make sure to get the bottom of the leaves because this is where the mites like to live. Winter: This also includes any time before the buds come out in the spring. If your tree has spider mites, during this time, you will only see the eggs settled on the branches of your tree. Apply dormant oil to all the eggs before they hatch. It is also handy to know what natural predators eat spider mites. Certain rival insects such as lacewings and predator beetles will aid in getting rid of your pesky mites. Preventing Spider Mites Spider mites are most active during drought season. When trees are stressed, this is when they attack. If you are experiencing extended hot days and long dry periods, it is important to keep your trees hydrated. This means giving them at least an inch of water a week and making sure you have enough mulch around them. How Five Star Tree Service Can Help Spider mites are a pest. Catching them before they do any permanent damage is important. If using the dormant oil or spraying your tree with water doesn’t seem to be working, you can give us at Five Star Tree Services a call at (416) 990-3355 and we will come and help take care of them. Visit our website to see a full list of our available tree care services in Toronto!

Design ideas for a transitional landscaping in Boston.

Pepper plants are a delightful addition to any garden, offering a vibrant burst of color and spice to your culinary creations. However, even experienced gardeners can encounter challenges when growing pepper plants. In this blog, we'll explore some common issues you might face and provide practical solutions to help your pepper plants thrive. 1. Slow or Stunted Growth Issue: Slow or stunted growth in pepper plants can be discouraging, but there are specific steps you can take to address this issue effectively. Solution: a. Soil Health: - Well-Draining Soil: Ensure your pepper plants are in well-draining soil to prevent waterlogged roots, which can inhibit growth. - Organic Matter: Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve its texture and nutrient content. - pH Level: Test the soil pH and adjust it to the ideal range between 6.0 and 6.8 using lime or sulfur as needed. b. Fertilization: - Balanced Fertilizer: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer designed for vegetables to provide essential nutrients steadily throughout the growing season. - Compost: Amend the soil with compost to enhance nutrient availability and soil structure. This can promote healthier growth. c. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Maintain consistent soil moisture levels by watering your pepper plants regularly but avoid waterlogging. Aim for 1-2 inches of water per week, adjusting based on your local climate and weather conditions. - Mulching: Apply mulch around the base of the plants to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. 2. Yellowing Leaves Issue: Yellowing leaves can be a sign of various underlying problems, but addressing them promptly can restore the vibrancy of your pepper plants. Solution: a. Nutrient Deficiencies: - Balanced Fertilization: Use a well-balanced fertilizer that includes micronutrients to address nutrient deficiencies. - Specific Nutrients: If you suspect a particular deficiency, such as magnesium, iron, or nitrogen, apply the appropriate nutrient supplement following package instructions. b. Pest and Disease Control: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect the leaves and stems for common pests like aphids and mites. Remove affected leaves and treat with organic pesticides if necessary. - Disease Management: Look out for signs of diseases like bacterial leaf spot or fungal issues. Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended. 3. Blossom Drop Issue: When pepper plants drop their blossoms prematurely, it can hinder fruit development and lead to disappointment. Solution: a. Temperature Control: - Stable Temperatures: Ensure your pepper plants are exposed to consistent temperatures between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during flowering. Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations by providing shelter or using row covers. b. Pollination: - Assist with Pollination: If growing peppers indoors or in a greenhouse, help with pollination by gently shaking the plants or using a small brush to transfer pollen between flowers. Outdoor pepper plants are usually pollinated by insects. 4. Wilting Plants Issue: Wilting or drooping pepper plants can be a sign of various problems, but proper care can revive them. Solution: a. Watering: - Consistent Moisture: Adjust your watering routine to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water early in the day to prevent fungal issues. - Drainage: Ensure proper soil drainage by amending the soil or using raised beds to prevent waterlogged roots. b. Pest Control: - Pest Inspection: Examine the undersides of leaves for signs of pests like aphids, spider mites, or whiteflies. Treat infestations promptly with biological insecticides. 5. Curling Leaves Issue: Curling or misshapen leaves indicate stress in pepper plants, which can be caused by various factors. Solution: a. Environmental Stress: - Stable Conditions: Ensure your pepper plants are in an environment with stable humidity, temperature, and adequate air circulation. Avoid sudden changes in conditions. - Proper Ventilation: Adequate air circulation can reduce humidity and prevent fungal issues. b. Pest and Disease Management: - Pest Inspection: Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases, addressing them promptly with organic remedies as needed. 6. Sunscald Issue: Sunscald can lead to discolored, leathery patches on pepper fruits when exposed to intense sunlight. Solution: a. Shade Cloth: - Sun Protection: Shield your pepper plants from harsh sunlight during the hottest part of the day using shade cloth or by planting them where they receive some filtered sunlight. b. Pruning: - Fruit Shading: Prune excess foliage to allow better fruit shading, reducing the risk of sunscald. Ensure that there's a balance between foliage and fruit. 7. Pepper Plant Pests and Diseases Issue: Aphids, mites, whiteflies, and various diseases can affect pepper plants, but you can manage them effectively. Solution: a. Regular Inspection: - Vigilant Monitoring: Regularly inspect your pepper plants for signs of pests or diseases, paying close attention to the undersides of leaves and stems. b. Organic Remedies: - Pest Control: Use organic remedies like neem oil, insecticidal soap, or diatomaceous earth for pest control. - Disease Management: Apply organic fungicides or bactericides as recommended to manage diseases like powdery mildew or bacterial spot. While growing pepper plants can present various challenges, these common issues are manageable with the right knowledge and care. Regular monitoring, proper soil preparation, and timely intervention can help you enjoy a bountiful harvest of vibrant, spicy peppers. Remember that gardening is a learning experience, and each challenge you face is an opportunity to improve your skills and enjoy the rewards of homegrown peppers in your favorite dishes.

How are the Trees in your yard ? Did you know Early Spring is one of the better times of the year to prune or cut back trees. Cutting back dead , overgrown or sick limbs is a way to keep a tree's over all health . Stump removal and Stump Grinding is another tree service we provide. Check us out on the web at www.zabrene.com or give us a call at 301-557-0061.

Moving back to the states from suburban London, the owners of this newly renovated house wanted the outdoor space to be as freshly designed as their home, with a sense of privacy for their family to enjoy the spending time together outside. Christine Krause Design Studio set to work opening up the backyard and reviving the shaded, patchy grass by clearing out the overgrown trees and scruffy pines, as well as the outdated planting scheme. Freeing up the area gave room for a new patio crafted from custom rectangular pieces of thermal bluestone set into pea gravel for a modern geometric pattern. The new upper patio features an L-shaped seating wall outdoor dining and entertaining. The seating overlooks the reflective blue of a water rill, recirculating parallel to two staggered rows of planted lavender that mirror the design of the bluestone on gravel. A new pathway leads the children out the yard to play, rounding by the preserved and pruned dogwoods. The contemporary gardens now take inspiration from the owner's’ love of English planting, with boxwood and viburnum, grasses, and perennial garden with a palette of purples, whites and silver grays that they can play with and add on to as they please. This family home now has the coveted English touch in the garden paired with a timeless patio they’ll enjoy for seasons to come.

Fabric bags were the original aeration containers. They have been widely used in a variety of environments from outdoors to hydroponics. RediRoot fabric is breathable, BPA free, made from recycled materials, and suitable for reuse. Designed to maximize airflow to the root zone, RediRoot Fabric Aeration Bags feature a lightweight yet durable fabric that provides effective and efficient air root pruning for plants and trees. The bags feature reinforced stitching throughout to ensure their durability for use through multiple growing seasons. A dark green topstitch helps the bag stay open for easier filling. RediRoot bags have been used in a variety of environments and are known to produce a dense fibrous root structure, reduce circling roots, and increase yields. Available in sizes 1-1000 for home or commercial use. *Landscape and wholesale customers please call for a quote.

Eagleston Hollies, affectionately pruned to jewel-shapes, add visual interest to the view from the grand terraced lawn.
Inspiration for a traditional landscaping in Houston.

How are the Trees in your yard ? Did you know Early Spring is one of the better times of the year to prune or cut back trees. Cutting back dead , overgrown or sick limbs is a way to keep a tree's over all health . Stump removal and Stump Grinding is another tree service we provide. Check us out on the web at www.zabrene.com or give us a call at 301-557-0061.

How are the Trees in your yard ? Did you know Early Spring is one of the better times of the year to prune or cut back trees. Cutting back dead , overgrown or sick limbs is a way to keep a tree's over all health . Stump removal and Stump Grinding is another tree service we provide. Check us out on the web at www.zabrene.com or give us a call at 301-557-0061

Trusted | Proven | Reliable est. | ProScapes | 2001 Proudly serving Skagit, Whatcom, Island and Snohomish Counties
This is an example of a large victorian backyard brick garden path in Seattle.

Lawn care maintenance by the seasons is a year long, continuous affair. To keep your lawn healthy and looking its best all through the year requires a considerable effort. Lawn care maintenance differs from season to season so here are some tips to get you started:

Lawn Care Maintenance in Summer
1 Proper watering is important in this season so that the soil does not dry out.

2 In summer the grass grows faster, so you'll need to mow it more often. However ensure that you don't cut off more than 1/3rd portion of the grass blades.

3 Just like the grass, weeds also thrive in warmer climates. Make sure to do some timely weeding in this season so that weed growth does not go out of hand.

4 During summer insects and pests are very active. Check the lawn soil for grubs, larvae of beetles and other insects that cause bare or dry patches. Go for pest control if you find an infestation. Re-seed the bare patches if needed.

Lawn Care Maintenance in the Fall
1 Falling leaves must be cleared more often during fall. This allows the grass to breathe and utilise the sunlight in preparation for the coming winter.

2 Clear any dead grass and other debris from the lawn in this season.

3 It is important to fertilise your lawn during the fall so that it gets the nourishment required for the dormant wintertime.

Lawn Care Maintenance in Winter
1 Leave the grass level as short as possible in preparation for the winter. This will prevent the blades from bending under the weight of the snow.

2 Just before the onset of winter is a good time to prune the shrubs and trees to encourage new growth and flowering as spring approaches.

3 It is a good idea to clear the lawn and yard of all outdoor furniture, pots, planters, logs, etc. This prevents the formation of dead patches as the snow vanishes.

4 Try to keep the side-walks and other spaces free of snow as much as possible.

Lawn Care Maintenance in Spring
1 Clean up the lawn of debris like leaves, twigs and other dead material that has collected over the winter.

2 Early spring is the time to fertilise the lawn which helps in its growth.

3 To get ready for mowing, begin by tuning up your lawn mower. Now is the time for a routine maintenance check.

4 Check for weed growth and de-weed your lawn so that it not only looks neat, but also ensures healthy growth.

You can follow these lawn care maintenance tips and do it all yourself or you could hire a professional lawn maintenance service like Fox Mowing to keep up the schedules. Fox Mowing( http://foxmowing.com.au/) takes up lawn and Garden Maintenance Professionals contracts along with other jobs like weeding and pest control, fertilising, mulching, debris removal, pruning, hedge maintenance, etc.

Chimney is adorned with climbing Boston Ivy. Eagleston Hollies, affectionately pruned to jewel-shapes, add visual interest to the view from the grand terraced lawn.

Moving back to the states from suburban London, the owners of this newly renovated house wanted the outdoor space to be as freshly designed as their home, with a sense of privacy for their family to enjoy the spending time together outside. Christine Krause Design Studio set to work opening up the backyard and reviving the shaded, patchy grass by clearing out the overgrown trees and scruffy pines, as well as the outdated planting scheme. Freeing up the area gave room for a new patio crafted from custom rectangular pieces of thermal bluestone set into pea gravel for a modern geometric pattern. The new upper patio features an L-shaped seating wall outdoor dining and entertaining. The seating overlooks the reflective blue of a water rill, recirculating parallel to two staggered rows of planted lavender that mirror the design of the bluestone on gravel. A new pathway leads the children out the yard to play, rounding by the preserved and pruned dogwoods. The contemporary gardens now take inspiration from the owner's’ love of English planting, with boxwood and viburnum, grasses, and perennial garden with a palette of purples, whites and silver grays that they can play with and add on to as they please. This family home now has the coveted English touch in the garden paired with a timeless patio they’ll enjoy for seasons to come.

Design ideas for a traditional backyard stone landscaping in Toronto.

Trusted | Proven | Reliable est. | ProScapes | 2001 Proudly serving Skagit, Whatcom, Island and Snohomish Counties
This is an example of a large shabby-chic style landscaping in Seattle with decking.

Every detail matters — from edging to pruning, our goal is perfection in every finish.
Inspiration for a timeless pool remodel

Key Benefits of Our Landscape Maintenance Service: At Alove Vera Landscaping we understand you have a busy life, but your garden should be addressed. Our skilled teams will take care of all your landscape maintenance needs, from trimming and pruning to bed and border care, patio cleaning, and seasonal work. We also service irrigation and garden lighting systems.