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Landscaping Investment Promotes Curb Appeal

Landscaping investment with a well-manicured lawn, vibrant flowers, and lush greenery can make a significant difference in your curb appeal. However, over time, your landscaping can become outdated, worn out, and even detrimental to your property’s value. If you’re wondering whether it’s time to update your landscaping, the answer is a resounding yes. In this article, we’ll explore the compelling reasons why updating your landscaping is a wise investment for your home and your well-being.

Reason 1: Enhanced Curb Appeal

The first impression is everything, and your landscaping plays a significant role in creating a lasting impression on potential buyers, neighbors, and even yourself. A well-designed landscape can increase your home‘s value by up to 10%, according to the National Association of Realtors. A fresh, modern look can make your property stand out from the crowd, attracting potential buyers and increasing its resale value.

Reason 2: Improved Functionality

Outdated landscaping can be more than just an eyesore; it can also be a safety hazard. Overgrown trees and shrubs can obstruct walkways, create tripping hazards, and even damage your home’s foundation. By updating your landscaping, you can create a safer, more functional outdoor space that’s perfect for entertaining, relaxation, or outdoor activities.

Reason 3: Environmental Benefits

A well-designed landscape can have a significant impact on the environment. By incorporating native plants, rain gardens, and efficient irrigation systems, you can reduce your water consumption, minimize stormwater runoff, and create a habitat for local wildlife. This not only benefits the environment but also reduces your utility bills and maintenance costs.

Reason 4: Mental Health Benefits

Spending time outdoors has been proven to have a positive impact on mental health. A well-designed landscape can create a peaceful, calming atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and stress relief. By incorporating features like water features, seating areas, and walking paths, you can create an outdoor oasis that promotes mental well-being.

Reason 6: Energy Efficiency

A well-designed landscape can also improve your home‘s energy efficiency. Strategically placed trees and shrubs can provide shade, reducing the need for air conditioning in the summer. In the winter, evergreen trees can block cold winds, reducing the need for heating.

Reason 7: Low Maintenance

Modern landscaping materials and designs are often low maintenance, reducing the time and effort required to keep your outdoor space looking its best. By incorporating features like succulents, mulch, and efficient irrigation systems, you can enjoy a beautiful landscape without the hassle of frequent watering, pruning, and fertilizing.

Reason 8: Personal Enjoyment

Perhaps the most compelling reason to update your landscaping is the personal enjoyment it brings. A beautifully designed outdoor space can become an extension of your home, perfect for entertaining, relaxation, or outdoor activities. Imagine sipping coffee on a sunny morning, surrounded by vibrant flowers and lush greenery, or hosting a backyard barbecue with friends and family.

Getting Started: Tips for Updating Your Landscaping

If you’re convinced that it’s time to update your landscaping, here are some tips to get you started:

* Hire Lawn Systems, Inc., to create a customized plan that suits your needs and budget.
* Start small, focusing on one area of your property at a time.
* Incorporate native plants, rain gardens, and efficient irrigation systems to reduce your environmental impact.
* Consider incorporating outdoor lighting to highlight your landscape’s best features.
* Don’t forget to incorporate functional features like seating areas, walking paths, and outdoor kitchens.

At Lawn Systems, Inc., we can incorporate landscaping features and many other options that meet 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!

Patio Pavers and Walkways

One of the most popular commercial landscape services in St. Louis, MO, these days is the installation of patio pavers and walkways. These additions not only provide a significant boost to your property’s curb appeal, but they can also significantly increase its value. In order to maximize these benefits, you’ll want to take the proper steps in deciding which type of design and material is right for you. Here are a few items to consider:

Surface Texture – Think about how your patios and walkways will be used. This will help you determine whether it’s best to choose a smooth, flat surface or a surface that is more on the textured side.
Concrete or Stone – If you’re looking for an option that is both affordable and attractive, concrete pavers are ideal. However, some people prefer stone pavers to achieve a specific look. Some of the most popular types of stone include flagstone, cobblestone, and veneer stone.
Design – As you ponder how you want your patio or walkway to look, keep in mind that the final design should be a happy marriage of style and functionality. This is a big decision, so it is best to consult with professionals – such as those at Lawn System – before deciding on any commercial landscape services in St. Louis, MO.

Curb Appeal Within Your Neighborhood Aesthetic

Your home’s curb appeal gives a first impression of your property and the lengths with which one maintains their home. “Location, location, location” is generally excellent advice, except that most people have no idea what it means. While a good location means different things to different people, there are also a few objective factors that play into how a good location impacts a home’s value. Neighborhoods appeal to people based on personal choice. A great neighborhood may have advantageous factors such as accessibility, and amenities, but a truly great neighborhood feels and looks great with residential landscape services in St Louis, MO.

Your Home and Neighborhood Appearance

The appearance of your home within your neighborhood is important. Large trees, clean streets, lawns, and gardens that are cared for by residential landscape services, and nearby green or community spaces all tend to be quite desirable. A certain amount of aesthetic uniformity with splashes of visual differentiation can help a neighborhood’s appearance and appeal. It will only help your home’s value and curb appeal if your property matches the other homes in your area. If you go to sell your home, it can help to ensure it sells faster. People judge the popularity of a neighborhood-based on how long homes tend to stay on the market, and if turnover is quick, many will see it as a desirable place to live.

Drainage 101: Steps You Can Take to Help Prevent Water Accumulation

A common concern for many homeowners is proper drainage! Getting water off your property can be a challenge, but there are several steps you can take to mitigate water accumulation and prevent water-related issues. Here are some suggestions:

1. Improve Grading and Slope: Ensure your yard slopes away from your home to prevent water from accumulating around the foundation. A minimum slope of 1-2% (1-2 feet of fall per 100 feet of distance) is recommended.

2. Install a French Drain: A French drain is a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from your property. You can install one around your home’s perimeter or in areas where water tends to collect.

3. Use Swales or Rain Gardens: Create shallow ditches or depressions (swales) or plant rain gardens in low-lying areas to capture and filter rainwater. These features can help slow down water flow and allow it to infiltrate the soil.

4. Install a Sump Pump and Backup System: If you have a basement or crawlspace, consider installing a sump pump and backup system to remove water that accumulates in these areas.

5. Improve Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure your gutters are clean, securely attached, and functioning properly. Install gutter guards to prevent debris accumulation. Extend downspouts at least 3-4 feet away from your home’s foundation to prevent water from seeping back towards the house.

6. Use Permeable Pavers or Pavement: Replace traditional pavement with permeable pavers or pavement to allow rainwater to infiltrate the soil.

7. Plant Water-Loving Vegetation: Incorporate plants that thrive in wet conditions, such as rain gardens or bog gardens, to help absorb excess water.

8. Install a Water Collection System: Consider installing a rainwater harvesting system to collect and store rainwater for non-potable uses, such as watering plants or washing cars.

9. Seal Cracks and Joints: Ensure your home’s foundation, walls, and pavement are free from cracks and joints that can allow water to seep in.

10. Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect your property for signs of water accumulation and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

Remember to always follow local regulations and consult with professionals if you’re unsure about the best approach for your specific situation.

Do you have any specific concerns or areas of your property that you’re struggling with? Please reach out to our team, servicing the following communities: Fenton, St. Louis, Ladue, Chesterfield, St. Charles, and Lake St. Louis.

Understanding the Basics of Proper Water Drainage

Water drainage refers to the process of directing water away from a building or property to prevent water accumulation, flooding, and damage. It involves the design, installation, and maintenance of systems and structures that facilitate the flow of water away from the property, ensuring that it doesn’t accumulate around the foundation, walls, or other areas.

Effective property drainage is crucial to prevent various issues, including:

1. Water damage: Water accumulation can seep into the building, causing damage to walls, floors, and ceilings.
2. Foundation problems: Water can erode the soil around the foundation, leading to structural issues, cracks, and settlement problems.
3. Pest and rodent infestations: Standing water can attract pests and rodents, which can lead to health hazards and property damage.
4. Landscaping and erosion: Poor drainage can cause soil erosion, leading to loss of landscaping, gardens, and outdoor features.
5. Health and safety risks: Standing water can create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, which can spread diseases like Zika, dengue, and chikungunya.

Common property drainage solutions include:

1. Gutters and downspouts: Collecting and directing rainwater away from the building.
2. French drains: A trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirects water away from the property.
3. Swales: Shallow ditches that collect and filter rainwater, allowing it to infiltrate the soil slowly.
4. Rain gardens: Depressions in the ground that collect and filter rainwater, often featuring plants that thrive in wet conditions.
5. Sump pumps and backup systems: Mechanisms that pump water out of the property, often used in areas with high water tables or flooding risks.

Proper property drainage is essential to maintain the integrity of a building, prevent water-related issues, and ensure a safe and healthy living environment.

Need help with surveying your property for drainage concerns and a professional team who can create solutions? Please reach out to our team, servicing the following communities: Fenton, St. Louis, Ladue, Chesterfield, St. Charles, and Lake St. Louis.

Water Drainage: An Essential Investment For Your Property

Using water drainage systems on your property is crucial for several reasons. Here are some benefits of installing a proper drainage system:

1. Prevents Water Accumulation: Drainage helps to remove excess water from your property, preventing water from accumulating around your home, garden, or yard. This reduces the risk of water damage, erosion, and flooding.

2. Reduces Erosion: Without proper drainage, water can flow over the surface of your property, causing erosion and soil degradation. A drainage system helps to direct water away from your property, reducing the risk of erosion and soil loss.

3. Protects Your Home’s Foundation: Water accumulation around your home’s foundation can cause cracks, damage, and structural issues. A drainage system helps to direct water away from your home’s foundation, reducing the risk of damage and costly repairs.

4. Prevents Waterborne Diseases: Stagnant water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other pests that can spread diseases like Zika, dengue fever, and chikungunya. A drainage system helps to eliminate standing water, reducing the risk of waterborne diseases.

5. Enhances Property Value: A well-designed drainage system can increase your property’s value by preventing water damage, reducing maintenance costs, and creating a more attractive and functional outdoor space.

6. Reduces Maintenance Costs: By preventing water damage and erosion, a drainage system can reduce maintenance costs associated with repairing or replacing damaged landscaping, hardscapes, and structures.

7. Improves Safety: A drainage system can improve safety by reducing the risk of slips, trips, and falls on wet surfaces, and by preventing water from accumulating in areas where people walk or play.

8. Protects Landscaping and Hardscapes: A drainage system helps to protect your landscaping and hardscapes from water damage, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.

9. Reduces Mosquito Breeding: By eliminating standing water, a drainage system can reduce the risk of mosquito breeding, which can help prevent the spread of diseases like Zika, dengue fever, and chikungunya.

10. Enhances Curb Appeal: A well-designed drainage system can enhance your property’s curb appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future.

Overall, a drainage system is an essential investment for any property owner, as it helps to protect your home, landscaping, and hardscapes from water damage, erosion, and other issues.

Our team provides professional services and solutions to all your water drainage needs. Please reach out to our team, servicing the following communities: Fenton, St. Louis, Ladue, Chesterfield, St. Charles, and Lake St. Louis.

Property Drainage Priorities

Property drainage is a crucial aspect of maintaining a safe and healthy living or working environment. Here are some related topics that might be of interest:

1. Water Management: Managing water flow and runoff on a property, including drainage, to prevent water-related issues like flooding and erosion.

2. Stormwater Management: Managing stormwater runoff to prevent pollution, erosion, and flooding. It involves designing and implementing systems to capture, filter, and slowly release stormwater into the environment.

3. Sewer Systems: While not directly related to property drainage, sewer systems are often connected to drainage issues. Understanding how sewer systems work and how they interact with property drainage is essential.

4. Foundation Repair: Poor drainage can lead to foundation problems, such as cracks, settlement, and water damage. Understanding foundation repair techniques and how they relate to drainage issues is important.

5. Landscape Design: A well-designed landscape can help with property drainage by incorporating features like swales, rain gardens, and permeable pavers to manage water runoff.

6. Erosion Control: Erosion control measures, such as retaining walls, terracing, and vegetation, can help prevent soil erosion and landslides, which are often related to poor drainage.

7. Flood Control: Flood control measures, like levees, dams, and floodwalls, are designed to prevent or mitigate flooding, which is often linked to property drainage issues.

8. Water Conservation: Conserving water through efficient irrigation systems, rainwater harvesting, and low-water landscaping can reduce the burden on property drainage systems.

9. Soil Science: Understanding soil types, permeability, and water-holding capacity is essential for designing effective drainage systems and preventing water-related issues.

10. Environmental Impact: Property drainage can have environmental implications, such as water pollution, habitat disruption, and ecosystem damage. Understanding these impacts is crucial for sustainable drainage practices.

11. Drainage Regulations: Familiarity with local regulations, ordinances, and building codes related to property drainage is essential for compliance and avoiding legal issues.

12. Insurance and Liability: Property owners should be aware of the insurance implications of drainage-related issues and potential liabilities associated with water damage or flooding.

These topics are all interconnected and can have a significant impact on property drainage. By understanding these related topics, you’ll be better equipped to manage water on your property and prevent costly problems.

Our experts can help you create a plan to revitalize your property to take advantage of the latest strategies to move water away from areas you want to protect and utilize the slope of your yard for updated landscaping and water drainage techniques. Reach out to our team, servicing the following communities: Fenton, St. Louis, Ladue, Chesterfield, St. Charles, and Lake St. Louis.

How to Create a Low-Maintenance Landscape

A low-maintenance landscape is the perfect solution to a busy lifestyle, allowing you to relax and unwind in your yard without the hassle of frequent watering, pruning, and upkeep. In this article, we’ll show you how to create a beautiful and functional low-maintenance landscape that fits your busy lifestyle.

Selecting the Right Plants

The key to a low-maintenance landscape starts with plant selection. Choose plants that are native to your region, as they are more adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, requiring less care. Consider the following factors when selecting plants:

Drought tolerance: Plants that can survive with minimal watering are ideal for busy homeowners.
Low growth rate: Plants that grow slowly require less pruning and maintenance.
Pest and disease resistance: Plants that are resistant to pests and diseases reduce the need for pesticides and fungicides.

Some excellent low-maintenance plant options include:

Groundcovers like sedum and creeping juniper
Ornamental grasses like pennisetum and switchgrass
Shrubs like boxwood and globe arborvitaes

Efficient Irrigation Systems

A well-designed irrigation system can save you time and water while keeping your plants healthy. Consider the following tips when designing your irrigation system:

Drip irrigation: Delivers water directly to the roots, reducing evaporation and runoff.
Rain sensors: Automatically shut off irrigation systems during rainfall.
Smart controllers: Adjust watering schedules based on weather data and soil moisture levels.

Hardscaping Materials for Low Maintenance

Hardscaping materials can significantly impact the maintenance requirements of your landscape. Choose materials that are durable, easy to clean, and require minimal upkeep. Consider the following options:

Pavers: Made from materials like concrete, brick, or stone, pavers are easy to clean and can withstand heavy foot traffic.
Natural Stone Walkways: Natural stone walkways provide an easy, long-lasting solution to hardscapes.
Landscape lighting: Install low-voltage lighting to highlight your landscape features without increasing maintenance.

Design Principles for a Low-Maintenance Landscape

A well-designed landscape can also contribute to its low maintenance requirements. Consider the following design principles:

Simple and symmetrical: Avoid complex designs that require frequent pruning and maintenance.
Mass planting: Plant groups of the same species to reduce the need for individual plant care.
Curved lines: Use curved lines to create a natural, effortless look that requires less edging and trimming.

Creating a low-maintenance landscape is within reach, even for the busiest of homeowners. By selecting the right plants, designing an efficient irrigation system, choosing the right hardscaping materials, and incorporating smart design principles, you can enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor space without sacrificing your precious time and energy. Remember, a low-maintenance landscape is not only convenient but also environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

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!

Attracting Wildlife to Your Backyard

Attracting wildlife with wildlife-friendly landscaping into our backyards, we can reconnect with nature but also provide a haven for the creatures that call our planet home. In this article, we’ll explore the ways in which landscaping can be used to attract wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and pollinators, and highlight the benefits of creating a wildlife-friendly landscape.

Plant Selection: The Key to Attracting Wildlife

When it comes to attracting wildlife, plant selection is crucial. Different species of plants attract different types of wildlife, so it’s essential to choose plants that are native to your region and provide the necessary food, shelter, and habitat for the wildlife you want to attract.

Native Plants: The Best Choice for Wildlife

Native plants are the best choice for attracting wildlife because they have co-evolved with local species over thousands of years. These plants provide the perfect food source, shelter, and habitat for native wildlife, making them an essential component of any wildlife-friendly landscape. Some examples of native plants that attract wildlife include:

Blazing Star (Liatris spicata) that attract butterflies and hummingbirds
Bee balm (Monarda didyma) that attracts hummingbirds, butterflies, and pollinators
Native grasses (e.g., switchgrass, big bluestem) that provide habitat for small mammals and birds

Habitat Creation: Providing Shelter and Food

In addition to plant selection, habitat creation is critical for attracting wildlife. By creating different habitats within your backyard, you can attract a diverse range of species. Some examples of habitats you can create include:

Bird-friendly habitats: Incorporate plants with berries, seeds, or nectar to attract birds. Consider installing a bird feeder or bird bath to provide additional food and water sources.
Butterfly habitats: Create a butterfly garden with plants that provide nectar, host plants for caterpillars, and shelter from the wind and rain.
Pollinator habitats: Incorporate plants that provide nectar and pollen, such as sunflowers, zinnias, and lavender.

Water Features: A Crucial Element for Wildlife

Water is essential for all forms of life, and incorporating water features into your landscape can attract a wide range of wildlife. Some examples of water features you can install include:

Birdbaths: Provide a source of water for birds to drink and bathe in.
Ponds: Create a habitat for aquatic life, such as fish, frogs, and dragonflies.
Rain gardens: Collect and filter rainwater, providing a source of water for wildlife and reducing stormwater runoff.

Tips for Creating a Wildlife-Friendly Landscape

In addition to plant selection, habitat creation, and water features, here are some additional tips for creating a wildlife-friendly landscape:

Incorporate rocks, logs, and other natural features to provide shelter and habitat for wildlife.

The Benefits of Creating a Wildlife-Friendly Landscape

Creating a wildlife-friendly landscape not only benefits the local wildlife but also provides numerous benefits for humans. Some of the benefits of creating a wildlife-friendly landscape include:

Increased biodiversity: By attracting a diverse range of species, you can increase the biodiversity of your backyard.
Enhanced property value: A wildlife-friendly landscape can increase your property value and provide a unique selling point.
Environmental benefits: By reducing stormwater runoff and providing habitat for pollinators, you can contribute to a healthier environment.

Attracting wildlife to your backyard is a rewarding and beneficial experience that can be achieved through thoughtful landscaping. By selecting native plants, creating habitats, and incorporating water features, you can provide a haven for local wildlife. Remember to incorporate natural features, and create a diversity of habitats to attract a diverse range of species. By creating a wildlife-friendly landscape, you can not only benefit the local wildlife but also improve your own mental and physical health, enhance your property value, and contribute to a healthier environment. So why not start creating your own wildlife-friendly landscape today?

Early Spring Pre-Emergent Treatment for Fertilization

As the last wisps of winter’s chill dissipate, homeowners and gardeners alike begin to think about preparing their lawns and gardens for the new growing season. One crucial step in this process is applying a pre-emergent treatment in early spring, a practice that offers numerous benefits for fertilization and overall lawn health.

What is Pre-Emergent Treatment?

Before delving into the advantages of early spring pre-emergent treatment, it’s essential to understand what it entails. Pre-emergent treatment involves applying a specialized herbicide to the soil before weeds and other unwanted plants germinate. This proactive approach prevents these pesky invaders from taking root, reducing the need for subsequent herbicide applications and minimizing the risk of lawn damage.

Benefits of Early Spring Pre-Emergent Treatment

1. Weed Prevention: The most significant advantage of early spring pre-emergent treatment is its ability to prevent weeds from germinating in the first place. By applying a pre-emergent herbicide, you can stop weeds like crabgrass, dandelions, and clover from taking hold, reducing the need for costly and time-consuming removal methods later in the season.

2. Reduced Herbicide Use: By preventing weeds from growing, you’ll require fewer herbicide applications throughout the season. This not only saves you money but also reduces the environmental impact of these chemicals.

3. Improved Lawn Health: Pre-emergent treatment creates an ideal environment for your desired grass species to thrive. With fewer weeds competing for resources, your lawn will receive the necessary nutrients, water, and sunlight to grow strong and healthy.

4. Enhanced Fertilization: When weeds are absent, fertilizers can be more effectively absorbed by your lawn, promoting healthy growth and development. This is especially important in early spring, when your lawn is recovering from winter dormancy.

5. Increased Curb Appeal: A weed-free lawn is not only healthier but also more aesthetically pleasing. By applying a pre-emergent treatment in early spring, you’ll enjoy a lush, vibrant lawn that enhances your property’s curb appeal.

6. Reduced Lawn Maintenance: With fewer weeds to contend with, you’ll spend less time mowing, edging, and trimming. This translates to more free time for you to enjoy your outdoor space.

7. Cost-Effective: While the initial investment in pre-emergent treatment may seem daunting, it’s a cost-effective solution in the long run. By reducing the need for subsequent herbicide applications and minimizing lawn damage, you’ll save money on lawn care and maintenance.

Timing is Everything

When it comes to pre-emergent treatment, timing is crucial. Applying the treatment too early or too late can render it ineffective. The ideal time for early spring pre-emergent treatment varies depending on your location and climate, but generally falls between late winter and early spring, when soil temperatures reach around 55°F (13°C).

At Lawn Systems, Inc., we have a program in place to help will all your fertilization needs, call us today to set up your scheduled fertilization visits!