(02) 4745 7432

Elevate Your Landscape: The Art of Fencing Design and Inspiration

When it comes to landscape design, fences are often considered an afterthought—a purely functional border to mark the boundaries of your property. However, a well-designed fence can do much more than define lines; it can elevate your entire landscape, acting as a frame for your living garden artwork. Fences provide the much-needed aspects of privacy and security and contribute a layer of aesthetic appeal that can dramatically enhance your home’s curb appeal and even its value.

In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll delve into the art of fencing design and inspiration. We’ll explore everything from why fencing is a critical component of landscape design to the elements you must consider before putting up your fence. You’ll also get a rundown of various fencing materials, each with pros and cons and many design ideas to inspire your next project. By the end, you’ll have all the tools to transform your yard or garden into a masterpiece framed perfectly by the ideal fence.

So, if you want to elevate your landscape, read on. This guide promises a journey through the art and practicality of fencing—one that could make your outdoor space the envy of the neighbourhood.

Fencing Design

Why Fencing Matters in Landscape Design

Aesthetics: Creating Visual Boundaries and Accents

In landscape design, the fence is akin to a picture frame. It sets the boundary for your “artwork”—the garden and yard—and enhances its visual appeal. A well-chosen fence can serve as an accent piece, adding depth and texture to your landscape. For instance, a crisp white picket fence could complement a colourful flower garden, while a sleek metal fence might be just the modern touch needed for a minimalist outdoor space. In essence, a fence can separate and unify your landscape’s elements, making it more than a sum of its parts.

Functionality: Security, Privacy, and Protecting Garden Spaces

Beyond aesthetics, fences serve a host of practical purposes. From a security standpoint, a sturdy fence can act as a deterrent to trespassers. It can also provide a layer of privacy, shielding your home and outdoor living spaces from the prying eyes of neighbours or passersby. Additionally, fences can protect delicate garden areas from pets or local wildlife, ensuring that your green thumb’s efforts don’t go to waste.

Influence on Property Value

Believe it or not, a well-designed fence can significantly impact your property value. Prospective buyers often appreciate the dual benefits of aesthetic appeal and functionality that fences offer. A well-maintained fence can serve as a selling point, suggesting a property that has been cared for in all aspects.

Elements to Consider Before Designing

Before falling in love with a fence design, checking local building codes and regulations is crucial. Some areas may restrict fence height, materials, and even colours. Skipping this step can lead to penalties or the need for a costly redesign. Always do your homework to ensure that your dream fence is legal.

Different materials fare differently in various climates. For example, wooden fences might not be the best choice for extremely damp climates as they can rot more easily. On the other hand, metal fences can rust in humid environments. It’s essential to consider how your chosen material will withstand local weather conditions over time.

The fence should seamlessly blend with your existing landscape and the architectural style of your home. Think about how the fence will look with your garden, driveway, and other landscape elements. Additionally, consider your long-term plans. If you intend to redesign your landscape in the future, select a fence style that is versatile enough to adapt.

Last but certainly not least, it’s vital to consider your budget. Fencing materials and installation costs can range widely. Set a realistic budget for the material quality and design elements most important to you.

Exploring Fencing Materials

Wood: Types, Durability, and Style

Wood is one of the most popular fencing materials, and for good reason. It offers a warm, natural look and can be painted or stained to fit any design scheme. Popular wood types include cedar, pine, and redwood, each with durability and resistance to elements. However, wood fences require regular maintenance to avoid deterioration.

Visit timberandfencingbrisbane.com to learn more.

Metal: Pros and Cons of Wrought Iron, Aluminum, and Steel

Metal fences, particularly wrought iron, evoke a sense of timeless elegance. They’re durable, secure, and relatively low-maintenance compared to wood. However, they can be expensive and are subject to rust if not properly treated. Aluminium and steel are lighter and less expensive options that still offer a sleek, modern aesthetic.

Vinyl: Maintenance and Aesthetic Factors

Vinyl fences have gained popularity due to their low maintenance requirements and longevity. They resist elements like moisture and UV light well, making them an excellent choice for various climates. The aesthetic options are limited compared to wood or metal, but they offer a clean, modern look.

Composite: Modern Alternative with a Natural Look

Composite fencing, made from wood fibres and plastic polymers, offers the best of both worlds. It has a natural appearance similar to wood but requires less maintenance. It’s also eco-friendly, often made from recycled materials.

Natural Options: Stone, Bamboo, and Hedge

Natural fencing options like stone walls, bamboo barriers, or even living hedges can be excellent for those looking for a more organic or unique look. While they can be more labour-intensive to install and maintain, these options offer unparalleled natural beauty and can make your landscape truly stand out.

Inspirational Fence Design Ideas

Classic Picket Fencing: An American Staple

The picket fence is as American as apple pie. Its distinct vertical boards and simple design make it a timeless look that suits both modern and traditional homes. The gaps between the pickets allow for some visual openness, balancing privacy and aesthetics.

Modern Metal Screens: Sophisticated and Minimalistic

Consider modern metal screens if your home’s architecture leans toward the contemporary. These offer a sleek, minimalistic appearance while providing a strong boundary. The options are endless—from laser-cut patterns to simple horizontal lines, metal screens can be a modern art piece in your landscape.

Rustic Log Fences: A Tribute to Natural Landscapes

For those who prefer a more rustic or rural aesthetic, log fences can be appealing. Built from raw, often unpeeled logs, these fences evoke a frontier spirit and blend seamlessly with natural surroundings like woods or meadows.

Gabion Fencing: A Trendy Design Using Wire and Rocks

A gabion fence consists of wire mesh containers filled with rock or stone. It is an excellent option for those seeking a design-forward fence with a rugged, natural feel. You can personalise it by choosing the type of rock or stone that best complements your landscape.

Custom Artwork and Murals: Creative and Expressive Options

Consider adding custom artwork or murals if you want a fence that serves as a canvas for self-expression. This approach turns your fence into a unique visual spectacle and can be a great talking point for guests or passersby.

Fencing Design

Bringing Personality Into Your Fencing

Colours can evoke specific emotions and atmospheres. A dark fence might offer a sense of depth and luxury, while a light-coloured fence can make a small yard appear more expansive. Research the psychology of colour to inform your choices and create your desired mood.

Small details can make a significant difference. Lattice work, post caps, and decorative panels can make an ordinary fence special. Consider adding solar-powered or wired lighting fixtures for added ambience and functionality.

Your fence can serve as more than just a border; it can also be a backdrop or supporting structure for plants. Climbing vines, flower beds at the base, or even hanging planters can bring life to your fence, creating a harmonious blend with your garden.

Practical Tips for Installation

Installing a fence can be a substantial project, and you’ll need to decide if it’s a DIY affair or if you should hire professionals. DIY can save money but will require substantial time and skill. Professionals can provide a quick, high-quality install but come at a higher cost.

A fence is only as strong as its foundation. Properly prepare the ground by levelling it and ensuring it is free of obstacles like rocks or roots. Some fence types may also require concrete footings for added stability.

Every material needs maintenance—from staining wood to prevent rot to oiling metal hinges for smooth operation. Understanding and performing this maintenance can extend your fence’s life significantly.

Fencing is more than just a border or a barrier; it’s integral to your landscape’s aesthetics and functionality. It can enhance property value, provide security and privacy, and even be a canvas for artistic expression. Therefore, when planning your fence, take the time to consider not just its practical aspects but also its ability to elevate your outdoor space. With the variety of materials and design ideas available, you can make a statement that reflects your personality and meets your needs. So why settle for a generic fence when you can create something that complements your home and elevates your landscape? Your dream fence is only a plan away.

Read More →

Top 10 Must-Have Landscaping Machines to Boost Efficiency

Landscaping is an art and science that requires creativity and knowledge of plants, soils, and climates and the right set of tools. Equipping yourself with appropriate machinery can significantly boost your efficiency, allowing you to undertake more complex projects and deliver superior results.

From the smallest backyard makeover to a comprehensive commercial project, landscaping machines are pivotal in streamlining operations. These tools save time and reduce physical effort while ensuring precision in each task. However, the selection of these machines needs to be done carefully, factoring in the specific requirements of your project, the machine’s functionality, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 10 must-have landscaping machines that every landscaper, whether a newbie or a seasoned professional, should consider. These tools have been carefully chosen for their ability to facilitate a variety of tasks involved in landscaping – from earthmoving, material handling, and digging to lawn mowing and tree pruning. 

Furthermore, we will also delve into some vital tips on servicing and maintaining these machines to ensure their longevity and optimal performance. Stay with us as we unearth these remarkable landscaping tools and help you transform your landscaping projects from laborious tasks into efficient, enjoyable undertakings.

Landscaping Machines

Landscaping machines are an essential component in the toolbox of any professional landscaper. These tools are designed to perform various tasks ranging from groundbreaking, earth moving, mowing, trimming, leaf blowing, and so much more. They aim to increase productivity, reduce manual labour, and ensure precision in every task, making the landscape work more efficient and profitable.

When choosing landscaping machines, several factors should be considered. These include the nature of the tasks, size and topography of the land, the machine’s cost, durability, ease of operation, maintenance needs, and, of course, its effectiveness in performing the required job.

Now, let’s delve into our top ten must-have landscaping machines:

  1. Excavators are heavy construction machines used for digging trenches, holes or foundations and removing debris. Their primary benefit in landscaping is their ability to perform large-scale digging tasks, especially in bigger projects efficiently.
  2. Skid-Steer Loaders: Compact and highly maneuverable, skid-steer loaders are excellent for grading, digging, loading, and more. They’re particularly advantageous for their versatility, as they can be equipped with various attachments for different tasks.
  3. Compact Track Loaders: With similar functionality to skid-steer loaders, these machines have tracks instead of wheels, providing better stability, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces. They’re a great investment due to their versatile nature and capability to handle rough terrain.
  4. Backhoe Loaders: A machine that resembles a tractor fitted with a shovel at the front and an excavator at the back, backhoe loaders are essential for digging, lifting, and loading. Their ease of handling multiple tasks makes them a crucial addition to your landscaping machinery arsenal.
  5. Wheel Loaders: These are used for moving and loading materials like soil, mulch, and gravel. Their powerful engine and large bucket capacity significantly enhance the speed and efficiency of landscaping operations.
  6. Motor Graders: Often used in constructing paths or roads, motor graders are perfect for levelling and grading soil or gravel. Their effectiveness lies in their precision and the smooth, even results.
  7. Lawn Mowers: Undoubtedly, no landscaping task can be completed without a good lawn mower. Its purpose ranges from cutting grass and maintaining lawns to creating beautiful patterns on the turf. A lawn mower’s efficiency lies in keeping your lawns neat and well-maintained.
  8. Leaf Blowers: These machines help clean leaves, grass clippings, and other debris from lawns or pathways. Leaf blowers save time and effort, making the cleanup process a breeze.
  9. Chainsaws: Primarily used for cutting and trimming trees, chainsaws are essential in landscaping for managing overgrown branches and keeping the trees in good shape.
  10. Power Pruners: Power pruners trim smaller branches and bushes that a chainsaw might be too large for. Their efficiency in landscaping is due to their ability to access hard-to-reach areas and deliver precise cuts.

These machines’ maintenance and regular servicing are crucial for optimal functioning and longevity. By adhering to the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance, ensuring timely repairs, and regular cleaning, you can keep your machines running smoothly for longer.

Here are some general maintenance tips for your landscaping machines:

  • Always keep them clean.
  • Check for any visible damages before and after use.
  • Ensure regular oil changes.
  • Keep the machine’s filters clean.

However, specific machines require unique servicing tips. For instance, you should regularly check and sharpen the blades for lawnmowers, whereas for excavators and loaders, regular inspection of the hydraulic system is necessary. Chainsaws and power pruners need their chains and blades sharpened and oiled regularly. Machine repairs by Equipment Services can provide everything you may need.

Landscaping Machines

Choosing the right landscaping machines and maintaining them properly can significantly enhance your landscaping business’s efficiency and profitability. Your machines will last longer and perform at their best, allowing you to deliver superior landscaping projects consistently.

In conclusion, investing in the right landscaping machines cannot be overstated. These tools serve as the backbone of any successful landscaping operation, providing the efficiency, precision, and ease of operation that can significantly impact the outcome of your projects. From excavators and loaders to mowers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, and pruners, each machine offers unique benefits and functionalities that cater to the diverse tasks involved in landscaping.

However, owning these machines is just one part of the equation. Ensuring their long-term effectiveness requires consistent and thorough care. Regular servicing and maintenance not only preserve the functionality and extend the lifespan of your machines but also guarantee safety during operation. Each piece of equipment has its own maintenance needs, and it’s crucial to understand and adhere to them diligently.

In a world where time is money, the right landscaping machines can give you an edge over the competition by allowing you to undertake more projects and deliver high-quality results in a shorter time frame. Pair this with proper maintenance, and you will have a fleet of landscaping machines that will serve you effectively for years.

In the end, remember, a well-equipped landscaper is an efficient landscaper. Invest in your tools, care for them, and they will undoubtedly reward you with outstanding landscaping results.

Read More →

The Art of Garden Design: Exploring Different Styles and Trends for Inspiring Landscapes

Garden design is an art form that has been around for centuries. It involves creating beautiful and functional outdoor spaces that reflect the personality and style of the owner. Garden design encompasses a variety of styles and trends, each of which can be used to create a unique and inspiring landscape. 

Understanding garden design basics can help you create the perfect outdoor space for your home. In this post, we’ll examine the different types of garden designs, including traditional, modern, and eclectic styles. The post will also include information on the latest trends in garden design and tips and tricks for creating a beautiful and functional garden. 

Garden Design

So whether you’re looking to create a peaceful retreat or a vibrant outdoor living space, this post will provide you with the inspiration and information you need to get started. And Experts at Desired Landscapes will help implement your vision into reality.

Types of Garden Designs

Understanding the different types of garden designs can help you choose the right style for your outdoor space and ensure that you create a beautiful and functional garden. In this section, we will explore some of the most popular types of garden designs, including traditional, modern, and eclectic styles, and discuss the key features and characteristics of each. 

Traditional Garden Design

A traditional garden design refers to styles that have been around for hundreds of years and have a rich history and cultural significance. Some popular conventional garden styles include the English Garden, French Garden, and Japanese Garden.

The English Garden is characterized by its lush green lawns, colourful flower beds, and winding paths. This garden style is often designed to look natural, with a relaxed and informal feel.

On the other hand, the French Garden is known for its formal and symmetrical layout, with straight lines, geometric shapes, and well-manicured hedges. This garden style often features ornate statues, fountains, and other architectural elements.

The Japanese Garden is a unique garden design style inspired by nature and the four seasons. This garden style is characterized by its use of natural materials such as rocks, water, and plants and its tranquil atmosphere. Japanese gardens are often designed to provide a space for meditation and contemplation.

Modern Garden Design

Modern garden design is characterized by its clean lines, simple shapes, and contemporary materials. This garden design style is often influenced by architecture and interior design trends, aiming to create a sleek and modern look for outdoor spaces.

Minimalist gardens are a popular sub-style of modern garden design and are characterized by their use of simple, clean lines and a limited colour palette. This garden style is designed to be functional and low-maintenance and often features hardscape elements such as concrete or gravel, with a limited number of carefully selected plants.

Geometric gardens are another popular sub-style of modern garden design. This garden style is characterized by its use of geometric shapes, such as squares, circles, and triangles, to create a structured and organized outdoor space. Geometric gardens often feature clean lines, precise angles, and a limited colour palette.

Contemporary gardens are a more fluid sub-style of modern garden design and often feature organic shapes and unique materials, such as metal or glass. This garden style is designed to be a space for relaxation and entertainment and often includes outdoor living spaces, such as patios, decks, and seating areas.

Eclectic Garden Design

Eclectic garden design is a style that combines elements from a variety of different garden styles to create a unique and personalized outdoor space. This garden design style allows for creativity and self-expression and is an excellent option for those who want to create a garden that reflects their tastes and interests.

An eclectic garden design typically incorporates elements from different styles, such as traditional, modern, and contemporary, to create a visually interesting and functional look. This garden design style allows for a great deal of versatility and can be tailored to the needs of the owner.

Another key aspect of eclectic garden design is the personalized touch that is added to the space. This can include unique features, such as a custom-designed water feature or a unique garden sculpture, that reflect the owner’s personal style and interests.

Ultimately, a mixed garden design results in a unique landscape that is both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re looking to create a peaceful retreat or an energetic outdoor living space, an eclectic garden design can help you achieve your goals and create the perfect outdoor space for your home.

Garden Design Tips and Tricks

Garden design is an art form that requires careful consideration of many different factors to create a beautiful and functional outdoor space. To help you achieve your goals, here are some tips and tricks for creating the perfect garden design.

Choosing the Right Plants: The right plants for your garden is key to creating a beautiful and thriving outdoor space. Consider factors such as sunlight, soil type, and water requirements when choosing plants, and opt for native plants whenever possible.

Garden Design

Balancing Hardscape and Softscape Elements: Hardscape elements, such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls, provide structure and definition to your garden, while soft scape elements, such as plants and trees, add colour and texture. When designing your garden, it’s important to balance these elements to create a harmonious and visually appealing space.

Creating Focal Points: A focal point is a visual element that draws the eye and provides a visual anchor for your garden. This can be achieved through a unique plant, sculpture, or water feature.

Proper Use of Lighting can transform your garden and create a warm and inviting outdoor space. Consider incorporating both functional and decorative lighting, such as path lights and wall sconces, to highlight key elements and create an inviting atmosphere.

Creating a Low-Maintenance Garden: A low-maintenance garden requires minimal effort to keep it looking beautiful. Consider using drought-resistant plants, incorporating hardscape elements that reduce the need for frequent watering, and opting for a simple design that is easy to maintain.

Garden design is a dynamic and exciting field that allows for creativity and self-expression. Whether you prefer traditional, modern, or eclectic styles, there is a garden design that is perfect for your outdoor space. By understanding the different types of garden designs and incorporating key elements, such as the right plants, balanced hardscape and softscape elements, focal points, proper lighting, and low-maintenance features, you can create a functional, beautiful garden and genuinely reflective of your style. So go ahead and start exploring the art of garden design today, and create the perfect outdoor space for your home.

Read More →

The Importance of Tree Lopping

As the name implies, mechanical tree lopping is when tree arborists remove branches that are not wanted. The main goal of this procedure is to create space for new growth and ensure the tree remains healthy and strong for future use. During tree lopping services, tree-clippers or arborists use saws, shears, or pruners to trim trees. 

When pruning a tree with a tree-clipper, it’s important to observe any branching that may occur, as well as any crossing branches that may move in the wind. Instead of removing all or most of the branch, the arborist will choose to thin out the branch. Trimming lower branches is often necessary to prevent them from becoming weak or breaking off in the future.

Why Tree Lopping Is Important

Tree lopping helps ensure that trees grow in healthy, dense clusters. This can be especially beneficial during hard winters when fruit and nuts can be scarce and tree leaves thin and susceptible to drying out. Lopping also helps prevent disease by removing infected or damaged leaves. Aside, from providing outdoor space for wildlife, tree pruning can also improve tree health. A healthy tree can filter excess moisture, filter pollutants, and retain the appropriate amounts of nutrients in its soil and leaves.

There are a variety of reasons why tree lopping is important. When trees grow too wide for the space they need to grow, they can interfere with vehicles driving by. Additionally, trees can clog storm drains, sidewalks, driveways, and other areas. When new growth is allowed to flow through these channels without limitation, the result can be a build-up of sediment and debris in these channels which can cause serious drainage issues. This can lead to flooding, which presents a hazard to property and residents.

Another benefit of tree lopping is that it provides a safer environment for homeowners, particularly those with small children. Smaller children are more likely to walk directly into an exposed tree branch, especially if it is branchless. 

Tree trimmers are best suited for tree lopping jobs because they have stable hands, ensuring they do not accidentally wound themselves. For families with small children, tree lopping can help limit access to a tree.

How Tree Lopping Is Performed

When tree lopping occurs, tree arborists will cut branches that are growing in the wrong direction. They do this by using a pruner or cutting blade and cutting across the branch. This action enables the tree to grow in the desired direction but leaves more space between the tree and the branches it needs to grow in. 

When trees grow in the wrong direction, they become unstable and can even topple. Tree removal is often one of the first maintenance tasks an arborist performs because it prevents future tree damage.

Another important reason for tree lopping is aesthetic. While many people consider tree lopping to be a cosmetic issue, many other people consider it to be a safety issue as well. In areas where there are a lot of branches and tree climbing, 

it can be difficult for pedestrians and drivers to avoid tripping on them. If tree lopping is performed regularly enough, you can reduce the risk of injury due to falling branches and other forms of tree climbing. Additionally, trees that grow into roadsides and encroach on parking lots can create safety hazards for both drivers and pedestrians.

Why You Should Hire Professionals

When tree lopping is performed by licensed arborists from, it provides several advantages. For one thing, it allows the arborist to keep all of the tree’s branches, even the thickest and mature ones. This provides a more visually appealing tree and ensures that it is healthy. 

Tree pruning can also help to ensure that the tree is stable and upright, improving its ability to support larger and heavier structures such as buildings and homes. Lastly, tree lopping also improves the efficiency of tree services by removing excessive twigs and leaves so that the tree will not produce too much debris during trimming.

Tree removal and tree lopping often go hand-in-hand. However, sometimes it is wise to hire an arborist who specializes in tree care. Specialized services like what https://www.branchmanagement.com.au/ offer, means they have the experience and knowledge about the best ways to protect trees as well as the best ways to remove them once they have outgrown their places in your landscape. 

For this reason, hiring an arborist with expertise in tree lopping often means that you will be receiving the highest quality tree maintenance service available. And it can be especially useful if you live in a region that requires regular tree lopping for stormwater control and other reasons.

Whether tree lopping or tree trimming is needed, it is important to keep certain factors in mind when doing the job. A tree lopping professional should always wear protective clothing, such as rubber gloves, goggles, and a hat. Loppers should be careful not to cut branches that could lodge into their eyes, and they should ensure their clothes are comfortable enough to not cause discomfort. Arborists should also make sure they have their equipment clean and ready before they begin.

Read More →

Why a Modern Garden Design Offers a Great ROI

Aside from a kitchen and bathroom renovation, recent studies have shown that outdoor landscaping features offer some of the best returns on your investment in increasing the market value of your home. Modern garden features are highly attractive to potential buyers, especially in urban environments. In this article, we’re going to outline a few of the reasons why you should be giving your garden design more attention. 

front yard landscaping

These days, people are getting creative with front yard landscaping designs. Millions draw inspiration from top trending front yard landscaping features each year. Try these captivating themes to maximize the benefits of outdoor living and breathe life into the landscape.

  1. Creeping fig arrangement 

Not all vines come off as a nuisance. Creeping figs, for example, are among some of the most functional ornamental species out there. These decorate magnificent pillars and supporting beams elegantly. They look charming on walls and add a lush character to flower gardens too. 

  1. Elegant terraced lawns 

An idyllic grand entrance, terraced lawns as a front yard design, lends itself to the landscape in an extraordinary way. Whether it’s a playground for the kids or pets or the background for a front yard garden, it’s exquisite. 

  1. Silver carpet walkway

Trending front yard landscaping features like the silver carpet; indulges an adventurer who loathes the lawn routine and dreary concrete walkways. The surface features a robust, drought-tolerant material. It has a high tolerance for foot traffic and harsh environmental elements. As far as compatibility goes, it harmonizes with nature and complements various landscape accessories. 

  1. Picket fence embracing stone-paved walkway

Stoned walkways give homes a tasteful classic appeal. Paired with a low-profile picket fence safeguarding garden shrubs and flowers bordering the lawn, it’s reminiscent of a country cottage retreat. Themes like this appeal to homeowners who appreciate low maintenance landscaping ideas for small yards. What is more, this design is a low-budget option.

  1. Rocky enclave

Front yard landscaping ideas with rocks make a timeless masterpiece. Imagine the embrace of natural, earthy elements, vegetation, and playful foliage. Whether a homeowner chooses to erect arched boulders at the entrance or integrate other materials, these never get old. Stonework has high-resistance capabilities that make it durable and hard-wearing. 

  1. Potted plants 

Gardening can be time-intensive and messy. An alternative is to incorporate potted plants as part of front yard landscaping plans. What to do to incite a familiar sense of euphoric gratitude like planting in the ground? Container (potted) gardening does all this without the labor-intensive aspect and mess. Never tried potted gardening before? Try ornamentals! Plant pots are affordable and give the landscape a complete look. These can complement pave ways and accent the front entrance.

  1. Tree shrubs 

Whether one prefers ornamental dwarf shrubs or king-sized shade trees, these plants can be an attraction. Privacy-style evergreens add a refined touch. Flowering types like weeping trees are more dramatic and animated. 

Trendiest front yard landscaping best practices

There are smart habits and unproductive ones. Even if homeowners adopt trending front yard landscaping features, having the wrong attitude towards the project can ruin everything. Try the following tips to elevate outdoor living in productive ways. 

  • Install sustainable outdoor lighting

Solar-powered lights and Intelligent, energy-efficient LEDs are trendy additions that simplify life. Remote-controlled lighting features include brightness control, on/off timer, and smart color adjustment. 

  • Compost the soil 

Plants need nutrients and healthy bacteria to thrive. Although fertilizers are nourishing, it’s not enough to keep plants healthy long-term.  Mulch and kitchen scraps can make quality compost for plant beds. The recommended frequency for compost treatment is semi-annually in warm climates. Garners should follow an annual timetable in wetlands.

  • Design outdoor living space

Having a comfortable space outside to relax and entertain company can be therapeutic. It costs less to enjoy the home from this space because it doesn’t rely on heating or cooling systems. Furthermore, shade trees have natural cooling benefits.

  • Smart water irrigation

Gallons of water wasted even during the wet season. It’s time to ditch traditional sprinklers and experience the benefits of smart water irritation. Intelligent irrigation systems make one of the most rewarding front yard landscaping investments today. These allow homeowners to control the sprinklers in an app. 

The approach one takes to front yard landscaping can make or break the design. It helps to know the potential of the topography and what is possible. Hardscapes and strategic plantings can help achieve uniformity. Landscaping ideas for the front of the house must be functional and captivating in the same breath. For the most part, it is labor-intensive. It helps to contract hired hands to complete the project faster. Professional landscapers possess invaluable expertise, hands-on training, and strategic planning experience. Budget and maintenance style are critical aspects to consider beforehand. 

Have a theme in mind? If the property has architectural limits, consider a theme that embraces these imperfections and unifies the landscape. Integrations such as geometric shapes, contours, structures, and other design elements can be challenging.  Simplification rules, so don’t overthink and add unnecessary clutter. Always design with the future in mind. Also,  prioritize the placement of hardscapes and static ornamental elements. Plants need a conducive environment to mature and flourish. Failure to achieve this promotes stunted growth, disease, pests, and a multitude of issues. There’s no harm in consulting a professional landscape designer for expert recommendations.

These trending front yard landscaping features can restore life to the most decadent spaces. Get a free quote for front yard landscaping now!

Read More →

How to Safely Remove a Tree From Your Premise

Most property owners have at least a few trees in their property to provide shade and for landscaping purposes. Yet these same trees can create a lot of problems for the property owner. During heavy rainfall, windy weather or thunderstorms the trees may get uprooted damaging property, vehicles and other structures, items in the area. In other cases the branches of the trees may break off during thunderstorms causing similar damage. It will be difficult to use the property or even access it, till a firm is hired for tree removals to remove the uprooted tree or branches from the property.

Though the tree service company will remove the tree, branches broken because of thunderstorms, the property will also have to waste money for repairing the damage to the property especially if the walls are broken or vehicles are damaged. This problem can be prevented to a very great extent, by hiring the services of well trained and experienced arborists who will periodically trim the trees to remove the dead branches, so that the damage caused during thunderstorms and similar weather conditions will be reduced to a great extent. The arborists will consider the hazards caused by the tree and trim it accordingly.

When is the Right Time to Get a Tree Removed From my Property?

One of the main problems which are caused by trees is when the branches are growing very close to the electric power lines. During a storm, the branches or tree may fall on the power lines damaging them, and the electric supply to the house or property will be cut off. Additionally, animals living in the tree, like squirrels and mice may bite the power, telephone and other lines, damaging them and adversely affecting the power supply, telephone connectivity in the area. The risks of exposed power lines like electric shock are well known. Hence it is necessary to hire a competent arborist who will identify the branches and trees which are a hazard.

Another problem caused by tree branches is that they can adversely affect the plumbing and sewerage system. During a thunderstorm the branches may fall on the external pipes of the house, damaging them. This can adversely affect the water supply to the property. In other cases if the sewerage pipes are damaged, the whole area may be flooded with dirty water. The leaves of the trees may also fall on the terrace and balcony of the house and block the drainage of water. In case the property owner is unfortunate to have hostile neighbours, they may be falsely accused of causing dengue in the area due to water accumulation and threatened arrest.

What Should I Do if Trees Are Growing too Closely to my Powerlines?

If you can see that trees are growing too closely to powerlines on your property, it’s important that you don’t sweep it under the rug. The ramifications of having a tree grow too closely to powerlines can be devastating. Not only could you potentially cause a power surge, but trees branches that touch powerlines also have the potential to cause a bushfire. When this happens, the whole community is being put in danger. For this reason, when you see that a tree has grown too closely to powerlines it is of utmost importance that you call your local tree removalists. 

What Should I Do if a Tree Has Fallen Onto Powerlines?

If a tree has fallen onto your powerlines, do not attempt to clean it up on your own. Fallen powerlines are deadly and trying to handle them without the correct experience to do so poses a serious risk to your health. If you’ve spotted a tree that has fallen onto powerlines, the best thing you can do is to call your local council. The council will deploy the correct servicemen to your location to ensure that the premise is restored to a safe environment. 

How Much Will it Cost to Get a Tree Removed From my Property?

The cost of your tree removal will depend largely upon the size of the tree, the difficulty of the task and the area that you are located in. Tree removals are a difficult task. Sometimes, trees that have grown on residential properties have overhanging branches that pose the threat of falling onto your building, your neighbours fencing or local powerlines. In this situation, the arborists are going to need to use extra caution to remove the tree from your premises. As a rule of thumb, you should be expecting to cough up to $70 per hour of service for arborist hires. However, their hourly rate does not necessarily reflect how much the job will cost. 

As mentioned, the size of the tree will directly affect the cost of tree removal. A general pricing guide for tree removal is:

  • Small Trees (1-30 feet): $90-$350
  • Medium Sized Trees (30-60 feet): $200 – $700
  • Large Trees (60+ feet): $600 – $2,000

How Expensive Will it Be to Remove a Tree Stump on My Property?

Most of the time, your local tree removalists will offer stump removal services as well. It will usually cost a larger fee, but it can be well worth the extra fee. Stumps can become an unsightly tripping hazard on a residential property. SProfessional services will ensure your stumps are professionally removed, you’ll be able to simply let the grass naturally grow over the top of where the tree used to be or roll a turf. This way, it’ll be like the tree was never there and your backyard will be revitalized. 

Is There Anything Else I Need to be Aware of?

Another problem that is created when the branches of trees grow close to the windows, balcony and terrace of the house, is that it becomes very easy for the various animals living in the tree to enter the house. These squirrels, rats, mice and in some cases monkeys can eat food, damage decor, appliances, clothes and plants in the house or terrace. These animals may also eat up seeds and dig the pots to scatter the mud in the pot. Again hostile neighbours may object to the mud scattered around the pots, circulating photos all over the town or city, to damage the reputation of the property owner.

Most trees are shedding their leaves regularly, and these leaves should be cleaned from the front yard for property maintenance. If the property owner does not have time for cleaning the leaves it can affect the curb appeal of the property. Similarly, if the tree is bearing fruits, and there is no one plucking the fruits, they will all fall on the ground, making the front yard and approach road of the property messy. Hostile neighbours may complain to the local government agencies that the property is not well maintained, and is causing health problems for them, adversely affecting the reputation of the property owner.

Where Can I Find Competent Tree Removalists in Brisbane?

If you’re living in Brisbane, you’re in luck. Brisbane is home to some of Australia’s most skilful commercial and residential arborists. Due to a high degree of competition, local arborists are always willing to go above and beyond for their clients to ensure their clients are fully satisfied with their newly restored backyards. If you’re living outside of Brisbane, depending on the size of the task, tree removalists are usually willing to drive a fair distance. Of course, they will likely charge a small extra fee to compensate for their journey. However, most of the time these arborists will be more than happy to simply come and inspect your property to see whether or not their services are right for you. 

How Long Will it Take to Remove a Tree From my Property?

While removing the broken tree or branches will only take a few hours, repairing the damage to power lines, plumbing, vehicles and other items caused by the broken branches and trees will take far more time and money. Hence it is advisable to hire the services of a well trained tree service provider who will periodically inspect the trees, to check the branches and trim them if required to prevent damage to property. This will save the property owner time and money in future.

Read More →