Posts made in April 2025

The Perfect Blend: Why You Should Incorporate Perennials and Annuals in Your Landscaping

When it comes to landscaping, many homeowners struggle to decide between perennials and annuals. While both have their own unique benefits, incorporating both into your outdoor space can create a stunning and thriving landscape. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of combining perennials and annuals in your landscaping, and why it’s a decision you won’t regret.

The Benefits of Perennials

Perennials are plants that come back year after year, providing a low-maintenance and cost-effective option for landscaping. Some of the key benefits of perennials include:

Low Maintenance: Perennials require minimal upkeep, as they don’t need to be replanted every year. This means less time and money spent on gardening.
Cost-Effective: While the initial investment in perennials may be higher, they pay for themselves over time by reducing the need for frequent replanting.
Drought Tolerance: Many perennials are drought-tolerant, making them perfect for areas with water restrictions or dry climates.
Soil Improvement: Perennials help to improve soil health by adding organic matter and reducing erosion.

Some popular perennials for landscaping include coneflowers, black-eyed susans, and hostas.

The Benefits of Annuals

Annuals, on the other hand, are plants that complete their life cycle within a year and need to be replanted every spring. While they may require more maintenance than perennials, annuals offer their own set of benefits, including:

Color and Variety: Annuals come in a wide range of colors and varieties, allowing you to add a pop of color to your landscape.
Flexibility: Annuals can be easily swapped out to change up the look of your landscape or to accommodate different seasons.
Pest Control: Some annuals, such as marigolds and nasturtiums, repel pests and can help to reduce the need for pesticides.

Some popular annuals for landscaping include petunias, impatiens, and snapdragons.

Why Combine Perennials and Annuals?

So, why not choose one or the other? The truth is, combining perennials and annuals in your landscaping offers the best of both worlds. Here are just a few reasons why:

Year-Round Interest: By incorporating both perennials and annuals, you can create a landscape that offers year-round interest and beauty.
Texture and Depth: Mixing perennials and annuals adds texture and depth to your landscape, creating a visually appealing space.
Seasonal Variety: Annuals can be swapped out seasonally to reflect changing seasons and holidays, while perennials provide a consistent backdrop.
Pest Control and Soil Health: By incorporating both perennials and annuals, you can take advantage of the pest control benefits of annuals while also improving soil health with perennials.

Design Tips for Combining Perennials and Annuals

So, how do you combine perennials and annuals in your landscaping? Here are a few design tips to get you started:

Start with a Perennial Base: Use perennials as the foundation of your landscape, and then add annuals to fill in gaps and add color.
Choose Complementary Colors: Select annuals that complement the colors of your perennials to create a cohesive look.
Consider Scale: Make sure to choose annuals that are proportional to your perennials to avoid overwhelming the space.
Don’t Forget About Texture: Mix different textures, such as smooth leaves and fuzzy flowers, to add depth and interest to your landscape.

At Lawn Systems, Inc., we can design a modern landscaping that meets your design aesthetic and the scale of your lawn, call us today!

Remember to look to our professional line of services to keep your home and business lawn and landscaping looking great and with our help – maintenance free! Our services include: Sprinkler Systems, Landscaping, Lighting, Water Drainage Solutions, Outdoor Living Concepts, Water Features, Fertilization – Take a look at our gallery and read more about lawn services on our blog!

We serve the St. Louis community and the surrounding cities: Ballwin, Clayton, Fenton, Chesterfield, Ladue, Kirkwood, St. Charles, Lake St. Louis, Webster Groves and our surrounding area, call us today!

Adding Dimension and Symmetry to Your Landscaping

When it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your property, landscaping is an essential aspect to consider. A well-designed landscape can transform your outdoor space into a beautiful and functional area that not only adds value to your property but also creates a sense of serenity and tranquility. One of the most significant benefits of landscaping is its ability to add dimension and symmetry to your yard and home, creating a visually appealing and harmonious outdoor space.

The Importance of Dimension in Landscaping

Dimension in landscaping refers to the creation of visual interest and depth in your outdoor space. This can be achieved through the strategic use of various design elements such as texture, color, and form. By incorporating different textures, colors, and forms, you can create a layered and dimensional look that draws the eye through the landscape. For example, combining smooth stones with rough-hewn wood or incorporating plants with varying leaf textures can add depth and visual interest to your landscape.

In addition to texture, color is another essential element in creating dimension in landscaping. By using a variety of colors, you can create a sense of depth and visual interest. Cool colors such as blues and greens can recede, creating a sense of distance, while warm colors like oranges and yellows can advance, creating a sense of closeness. By strategically placing plants with different bloom times, you can create a dynamic and changing landscape that adds dimension and interest throughout the seasons.

The Role of Symmetry in Landscaping

Symmetry is another crucial aspect of landscaping that can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor space. Symmetry refers to the balance and harmony created by the arrangement of design elements in your landscape. By using symmetrical design principles, you can create a sense of order and stability, which can be particularly effective in creating a sense of calm and tranquility.

There are several ways to incorporate symmetry into your landscape design. One approach is to use identical or mirrored elements on either side of a central axis, such as a walkway or a patio. This can create a sense of balance and harmony, drawing the eye to the central focal point. Another approach is to use radial symmetry, where elements are arranged around a central point, such as a fountain or a statue. This can create a sense of energy and movement, drawing the eye outward from the central point.

How Landscaping Adds Dimension and Symmetry to Your Yard and Home

So, how does landscaping add dimension and symmetry to your yard and home? Here are some ways in which a well-designed landscape can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property:

Creates a sense of depth and visual interest: By incorporating different textures, colors, and forms, a landscape design can create a sense of depth and visual interest, drawing the eye through the landscape and creating a sense of dimension.
Enhances curb appeal: A well-designed landscape can greatly enhance the curb appeal of your home, creating a beautiful and inviting exterior that welcomes visitors and adds value to your property.
Creates a sense of harmony and balance: By incorporating symmetrical design principles, a landscape design can create a sense of harmony and balance, creating a sense of calm and tranquility in your outdoor space.
Increases functionality: A well-designed landscape can also increase the functionality of your outdoor space, creating areas for entertainment, recreation, and relaxation.
Adds value to your property: A beautiful and well-designed landscape can add significant value to your property, making it more attractive to potential buyers if you ever decide to sell.

Tips for Adding Dimension and Symmetry to Your Landscape

If you’re looking to add dimension and symmetry to your landscape, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Start with a plan: Before you begin designing your landscape, take the time to create a plan and sketch out your ideas. This will help you visualize your design and ensure that it meets your needs and goals.
Choose a focal point: Identify a central focal point in your landscape, such as a patio or a water feature, and design your landscape around it.
Use a variety of textures and colors: Incorporate different textures and colors into your landscape design to add depth and visual interest.
Incorporate symmetrical elements: Use symmetrical design principles to create a sense of balance and harmony in your landscape.
Don’t forget about lighting: Lighting can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal of your landscape, particularly in the evening hours. Consider incorporating outdoor lighting into your design to highlight your landscape’s best features.

Landscaping is a powerful tool for adding dimension and symmetry to your yard and home. By incorporating different textures, colors, and forms, and using symmetrical design principles, you can create a beautiful and functional outdoor space that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property. Whether you’re looking to increase curb appeal, create a sense of harmony and balance, or simply enhance the functionality of your outdoor space, a well-designed landscape can help you achieve your goals. So why not get started today and see the difference that landscaping can make in your yard and home? Contact Lawn Systems today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of modern landscaping!

At Lawn Systems, Inc., we can design a modern landscaping that meets your design aesthetic and the scale of your lawn, call us today!

Update Your Outdoor Lighting for a Summer of Fun and Relaxation

As the days grow longer and warmer, our outdoor spaces become an extension of our homes, perfect for hosting gatherings, enjoying quality time with family and friends, and creating unforgettable memories. However, without proper lighting, these spaces can quickly become unusable after dark, limiting our ability to fully enjoy the summer season. That’s why updating your outdoor lighting is essential for making the most of your outdoor space this summer.

Why Outdoor Lighting Matters

Outdoor lighting serves multiple purposes, going beyond mere aesthetics. It can:

* Enhance safety by illuminating walkways, stairs, and potential tripping hazards
* Increase security by deterring intruders and making it harder for them to hide
* Highlight architectural features and landscaping, adding curb appeal to your property
* Create ambiance and atmosphere, setting the tone for outdoor gatherings and events
* Extend the use of your outdoor space, allowing you to enjoy it well into the evening hours

Assessing Your Current Outdoor Lighting

Before updating your outdoor lighting, take stock of your current setup. Walk around your property at night, noting areas that are poorly lit or lack lighting altogether. Consider the following:

* Are there any dark spots or areas where shadows create tripping hazards?
* Are your outdoor living spaces, such as patios or decks, adequately lit?
* Are there any areas where lighting could enhance the beauty of your landscaping or architectural features?
* Are your outdoor lighting fixtures outdated, damaged, or in need of replacement?

Outdoor Lighting Options for Summer Fun

With a clear understanding of your outdoor lighting needs, it’s time to explore the various options available. Here are some popular choices for updating your outdoor lighting:

String Lights: Perfect for creating a warm, festive ambiance, string lights are ideal for outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, or gazebos.
Pathway Lighting: Solar-powered pathway lights are a great option for illuminating walkways, stairs, and driveways, while also being eco-friendly and low-maintenance.
Spotlights: Highlight your home’s architectural features, landscaping, or outdoor art with spotlights, which can be directed to focus on specific areas.
Floodlights: Provide overall illumination for larger outdoor areas, such as backyards or pool areas, with floodlights.
Landscape Lighting: Showcase your landscaping with low-voltage lighting, which can be used to highlight specific plants, trees, or water features.

Energy-Efficient Options

As you update your outdoor lighting, consider the environmental impact and your energy bills. Here are some energy-efficient options to explore:

LED Lighting: LED lights use significantly less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer.
Solar-Powered Lighting: Harness the power of the sun to illuminate your outdoor space, reducing your reliance on electricity.
Low-Voltage Lighting: Low-voltage lighting systems use less energy and are often more cost-effective than traditional line-voltage systems.

Designing Your Outdoor Lighting Scheme

When designing your outdoor lighting scheme, keep the following tips in mind:

Layered Lighting: Use a combination of lighting sources to create a layered effect, with different lights serving different purposes (e.g., pathway lighting, spotlights, and ambient lighting).
Balance: Balance your lighting scheme to avoid harsh or overly bright areas, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Color Temperature: Choose lighting with a warm color temperature (2700K-3000K) to create a cozy, relaxing ambiance.

Updating your outdoor lighting is a simple yet effective way to enhance your outdoor space, increase safety and security, and create a warm and inviting atmosphere for summer gatherings and events. By assessing your current lighting, exploring the various options available, and designing a thoughtful lighting scheme, you’ll be well on your way to making the most of your outdoor space this summer. So why wait? Start planning your outdoor lighting update today and get ready to make unforgettable memories with family and friends!

Contact Lawn Systems today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of upgrading to a modern exterior lighting.

At Lawn Systems, Inc., we can design a modern landscaping that meets your design aesthetic and the scale of your lawn, call us today!

The Intelligent Way to Water Your Lawn: How Smart Irrigation Systems Work

With a smart irrigation system, you can add time and dollars to your summer! As a homeowner, you take pride in maintaining a lush, green lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood. But let’s face it – watering your lawn can be a daunting task, especially during hot summer months when it seems like your grass is constantly thirsty. Traditional irrigation systems can be wasteful, inefficient, and even damaging to your lawn if not properly calibrated. That’s where smart irrigation systems come in – a game-changing technology that ensures your lawn receives the right amount of water at the right time.

In this article, we’ll delve into the inner workings of smart irrigation systems, exploring how they detect when to water your lawn and the numerous benefits they offer. By the end of this article, you’ll be convinced that upgrading to a smart irrigation system is the intelligent choice for your lawn, your wallet, and the environment.

How Smart Irrigation Systems Work

Smart irrigation systems use a combination of sensors, weather data, and advanced algorithms to optimize watering schedules. These systems are designed to detect when your lawn needs water, taking into account factors such as soil moisture, temperature, humidity, and precipitation.

Here are the key components that make up a smart irrigation system:

1. Soil Moisture Sensors: These sensors are buried in the soil and measure the moisture levels, providing real-time data on the soil’s water content. This information helps the system determine when the soil is dry enough to require watering.
2. Weather Stations: Weather stations or internet-connected weather services provide real-time weather data, including temperature, humidity, wind speed, and precipitation. This data helps the system adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions.
3. Rain Sensors: Rain sensors detect rainfall and automatically adjust watering schedules to avoid overwatering.
4. Smart Controllers: The brain of the system, smart controllers process data from the sensors and weather stations to determine the optimal watering schedule.

How Smart Irrigation Systems Detect When to Water

Smart irrigation systems use a variety of methods to detect when your lawn needs water. Here are some of the ways they determine the perfect watering schedule:

1. Soil Moisture Levels: By monitoring soil moisture levels, the system can detect when the soil is dry enough to require watering. This ensures that your lawn receives the right amount of water, avoiding overwatering or underwatering.
2. Evapotranspiration (ET): ET is the process by which plants release water vapor into the air. Smart irrigation systems use ET data to calculate the amount of water lost through evaporation and transpiration, adjusting watering schedules accordingly.
3. Weather Forecasting: By analyzing weather forecasts, smart irrigation systems can anticipate changes in weather patterns and adjust watering schedules to ensure your lawn receives the right amount of water.
4. Historical Data: Smart irrigation systems can analyze historical data on your lawn’s watering needs, taking into account factors such as soil type, grass type, and climate.

Benefits of Smart Irrigation Systems

Upgrading to a smart irrigation system offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Water Conservation: Smart irrigation systems can reduce water consumption by up to 50%, making them an environmentally friendly choice.
2. Cost Savings: By optimizing watering schedules, smart irrigation systems can help you save money on your water bill.
3. Lawn Health: Smart irrigation systems ensure your lawn receives the right amount of water, reducing the risk of overwatering or underwatering, which can lead to disease, pests, and weed growth.
4. Increased Efficiency: Smart irrigation systems automate watering schedules, freeing up your time for more important tasks.
5. Customization: Smart irrigation systems can be customized to meet the specific needs of your lawn, taking into account factors such as soil type, grass type, and climate.

Smart irrigation systems are the intelligent way to water your lawn, offering a range of benefits that make them a worthwhile investment. By detecting when your lawn needs water and optimizing watering schedules, smart irrigation systems ensure your lawn receives the right amount of water, reducing waste and conserving this precious resource.

If you’re tired of wasting water and money on inefficient irrigation systems, it’s time to upgrade to a smart irrigation system. With their advanced technology and ability to detect when your lawn needs water, smart irrigation systems are the perfect solution for homeowners who want to maintain a healthy, thriving lawn while doing their part for the environment. Contact Lawn Systems today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of upgrading to a modern irrigation system. Make the intelligent choice for your lawn – invest in a smart irrigation system today!

At Lawn Systems, Inc., we can design a modern landscaping that meets your design aesthetic and the scale of your lawn, call us today!

Replace Your Old Irrigation System For Updated Efficiency

As a homeowner, you take pride in maintaining a beautiful and lush lawn. However, an old irrigation system can be a major obstacle in achieving this goal. If your irrigation system is outdated, inefficient, and malfunctioning, it’s time to consider replacing it. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why upgrading to a new irrigation system is a wise investment for your lawn, wallet, and the environment.

Inefficiency and Water Waste

One of the primary reasons to replace your old irrigation system is its inefficiency. An outdated system can waste a significant amount of water, leading to increased water bills and a negative impact on the environment.

Old irrigation systems often use outdated technology, such as mechanical timers and inefficient sprinkler heads, which can lead to overwatering, underwatering, and uneven water distribution. This not only wastes water but also damages your lawn, leading to brown spots, fungal diseases, and pest infestations.

Lawn Damage and Maintenance

An old irrigation system can cause significant damage to your lawn, leading to costly maintenance and repairs. Overwatering can lead to shallow root growth, making your lawn more susceptible to disease and pests. On the other hand, underwatering can cause lawn stress, leading to weed growth and erosion.

Moreover, an inefficient irrigation system can lead to frequent repairs and replacements of sprinkler heads, pipes, and other components. This can be a significant expense, especially if you have a large lawn or multiple zones.

Increased Water Bills

An old irrigation system can lead to increased water bills, which can be a significant expense for homeowners. According to the EPA, a household can potentially save money by installing an updated irrigation system.

Environmental Impact

The environmental impact of an old irrigation system cannot be ignored. Water waste and inefficient irrigation systems contribute to the depletion of our natural resources, harming our ecosystem and wildlife. By upgrading to an efficient irrigation system, you can reduce your water footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

New Technology and Features

Modern irrigation systems come equipped with advanced technology and features that can revolutionize the way you water your lawn. Some of the benefits of new irrigation systems include:

Smart Controllers: These controllers can adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, soil type, and lawn type, ensuring that your lawn receives the right amount of water at the right time.
Rain Sensors: These sensors can detect rainfall and adjust watering schedules accordingly, preventing overwatering and water waste.
Drought-Tolerant Plants: Many modern irrigation systems are designed to work in conjunction with drought-tolerant plants, reducing water consumption and maintenance.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Many new irrigation systems can be controlled remotely using Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to adjust watering schedules and monitor your system from anywhere.

Increased Property Value

A modern irrigation system can increase your property value, making your home more attractive to potential buyers. A well-maintained lawn and efficient irrigation system can add significant value to your property, making it more desirable and increasing its resale value.

Replacing your old irrigation system is a wise investment for your lawn, wallet, and the environment. By upgrading to a modern irrigation system, you can reduce water waste, prevent lawn damage, and lower your water bills. With advanced technology and features, modern irrigation systems can provide a more efficient and effective way to water your lawn. Don’t wait until your old irrigation system causes significant damage to your lawn and wallet. Consider replacing it today and enjoy a lush, green lawn while doing your part for the environment.

If you’re still using an old irrigation system, it’s time to take action. Contact Lawn Systems today to schedule a consultation and learn more about the benefits of upgrading to a modern irrigation system. Don’t wait until it’s too late – invest in a new irrigation system and start enjoying a healthier, more sustainable lawn today!

At Lawn Systems, Inc., we can design a modern landscaping that meets your design aesthetic and the scale of your lawn, call us today!