Designing Your Space

Since there is not a lot going on in February in regards to landscaping, this is the perfect time to start on ideas of what you want to do when spring arrives.  Start the process now!

Budget – come up with a budget on how much you wish spend on your landscaping this year.  Remember that your landscape adds to the value and beauty of your home.

Decide how long you expect to stay in your home.  Remember that if you are putting your home on the market, Curb Appeal makes a difference.  If you plan on staying in your home for a while, why not invest in the landscape and make it a place you want to surround yourself in. 

What would you want to do with the space you have?  There are so many options: 

• Foundation beds to add a flare to the house itself. 
• Privacy screen/hedge from neighbors. 
• Privacy nook for your own private time of relaxation.  
• Entertainment options – larger patio, greener/lusher lawn, a “picture” perfect place where everyone would enjoy – think of this as another room in your house.

What added features would you need?  Patio, walkway, wall, drainage?

Once you have worked on these steps, then it is time to decide on the design aspects.  Which plants, pavers, stones, trees, shrubs, annuals, mulch, etc. do you want to use?  What would grow well in the area you have chosen?  Is the area in shade? Does the area get water – is there a sprinkler system?  Is the area too wet? What is the soil in that area like? Realize that these are very important questions to allow your plants to grow. 

Next you should think of seasonal colors.  When designing an area, it isn’t just about how pretty all the plants are but, also, when they will be showing off their spark.  You will probably want to pick plants that “show off” at different times so that there is always seasonal interest.  Find out what plants flower in spring and which will flower in summer.  How will these plants look and react in fall and winter?  Which evergreens might look good in a specific area and how big will they get?

We are hoping that these questions will start you on the path to creating a beautiful yard that you will enjoy throughout the year. 

If you would like assistance, we have landscape design specialists who would be able to assist you.  We recommend scheduling soon so that all will be prepared ahead of time.  In that way, as soon as the warmer weather hits, we can make your designs come to life.

Employee of the Year - James Dinizo

It's not easy being the boss' son but that has not stopped James from learning everything he needs to know to be the best for our customers. 

James has his Bachelor's Degree in Landscape Design.  He had attended one year at the University of Northern Iowa where he had received a baseball scholarship and studied business.  He continued both baseball and business studies at St. Petersburg College.  He then came back to New Jersey and completed his degree in Landscape Design.
He is skilled not only in Landscape Design - including 3D design programs for landscapers and landscape architects, but also has extensive knowledge of New Jersey plant material, a Pesticide applicator's license and a New Jersey Fertilizer license.

When asked why he works at Truesdale he answered:

"I enjoy working outdoors, so landscaping is a good fit for me.  I like landscaping and I especially like the design aspect of landscaping because it allows me to take an area or portion of someone's home and create a beautiful space that they will be able to enjoy. Truesdale is a noble place to work because all of the employees really take pride in their work."

What are his interests outside of Truesdale?

"I have always enjoyed sports and physical activities. I took an extensive interest in the game of baseball.  In more recent days my hobbies include golf, softball and fishing."

What is his philosophy when it comes to plants and taking care of landscape?

"Basically, the answer is in the question:  Care.  It is not well known just how much care and attention living plants need to thrive.  Not everyone has a "green thumb" and that's where I can surely be of assistance.  Often landscapers will complete jobs with haste, neglecting certain aspects of plant life that need to be attended to. That is one of the reasons I love working for Truesdale.  I am able to take my time and make sure my work is done correctly."

And, lastly, what are his future plans?

"I plan to stay with Truesdale and continue to learn and master the landscaping field."

We are more than pleased to have James as part of the Truesdale Team and his willingness to continue learning more, his dedication to his clients, and his attitude are why he is this year's Employee of the Year.