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.

Fall Into Winter with Ease

It’s time to finish up those odds and ends before it gets too late and winter is here. If  you haven’t already done so, you should fertilize your lawn before the leaves begin to fall in full force, as this is your last chance to ensure that your lawn gets the important nutrients it needs in order to maintain its lush and healthy vibrancy. Be sure to scan your property regularly; if you notice diseased or damaged plants, now is the time to address them. Take advantage of the warm weather to clean up any remaining bed weeds. It’s always good to mulch beds, add new plants or replace the dead ones at this point. And finally, trim back your trees so that they survive the harsh winter storms. There is still plenty left to do this month in order to prepare your property for the winter. It’s simple; Truesdale is here to handle the tough tasks for you.

Prepare Your Beds

Mulching beds around your trees and shrubs is extremely important in order to help prevent weeds from growing back, to provide warmth for your plants during the colder temperatures and to eliminate moisture. Trim back your perennials, annuals and bulbs properly to reduce any remaining diseases from the winter. Whether it is trimming Hydrangeas or cutting back your beautiful Daylilies and Heuchera, the correct approach in the fall will ensure their beauty next year.

Last Chance for Planting

The best time for planting is Fall. There is still some time to revamp your landscaping by adding new plants or replacing the older ones. Keep in mind that it is best to plant your shrubs and trees sooner than later, while they are still dormant, to give them the best opportunity for growth come springtime.

Fall Fertilization

It’s not too late to fertilize. In fact, fertilization in the fall will boost the root system and help you achieve that beautiful lush green lawn that we all strive for.  

Pruning

Pruning during this time of year promotes fast re-growth in the spring. The leaves have all fallen and the “woody” plants are dormant making it easier to trim. Pruning is necessary to remove dead, diseased, broken or overlapping limbs. It reduces the weight of branches that are prone to breakage from storms or heavy snowfall. Pruning properly drives away those pesky critters and diseases, which also means it’s less work for you in the long run.

Helpful Tip: Importance of Clearing Up the Leaves from your Lawn 

Remember to remove leaves in order to prevent mold disease, for proper growth, and for cleanliness of your property.

While these are all good reasons to get rid of the leaves, there is one important factor to keep in mind (that is not so obvious), which is to help nature step in by allowing the sunlight and plants to work together. This is a crucial time for grasses to rejuvenate themselves and strengthen their roots.

Fallen leaves can overshadow and prevent grass from growing properly (if at all). That being said, remove those excess leaves and your lawn will thank you in the end. 

Are You Sure You Know What, When and How To Prune?

                                               

Some people consider the act of pruning, a form of art; and like any masterpiece, the end result is rewarding. Similar to art, there are several different techniques to pruning if you are looking to achieve a certain effect like privacy, windbreaks or even just for a fuller look. Let’s be honest though … it can be quite time consuming and it takes A LOT of patience. While there are no short-cuts to pruning, when done properly (and with the right tools), you will reap all the benefits in due time.  There’s nothing wrong with a temporary fix, but wouldn't you rather prevent future problems all together?

So let’s get down to the basics!

Plants can usually be pruned after new growth emerges in the spring in order to maintain and control growth. Simply put … the more you prune, the more you will notice any abnormalities and therefore treat them before it is too late. If you want your foliage to look full and healthy, you’ll need to prune anything that is diseased and/or damaged.

Knowing when to prune is often very important, but then again it also depends on the type of plants you own and what is best for them at that time. Think of pruning as one of the answers to most of your plants’ distress if you notice anything irregular. For instance, not pruning before a storm hits can cause more damage than you can believe … not only to your trees or plants, but on your wallet as well. So, bear in mind that pruning properly and regularly often prevents storms from damaging or tearing up your trees or plants tremendously. Really, the best advice we can give is to prune at such a time that will not shock your plant.

Look for:

•  Awkward limbs
• Vertical buds from branches (known as water sprouts)
• Dangling branches, crossing or rubbing branches
• Insect-infested wood
• Excess growth

Truesdale Nursery and Landscaping is here to help you! We have experienced professionals who are skilled and available to prune your plants properly so that they can maintain their beautiful and healthy look. If you want your property to look its best then give us a call and schedule your appointment today. You can reach us at (908) 834-2675.   

What's the Deal with Crepe Myrtles?

 CREPE MYRTLES MIGHT BE SUFFERING AND HERE'S WHY

 Did you know that certain insects, weeds and grubs are emerging now (in June) as a result of the weather we had this past winter? 

We all know how unusually odd the weather has been most recently, but this past winter alone, has been really hard on all of us ... including our plants, trees and lawn. If you notice even the slightest difference with your foliage it's important to treat the area(s) with preventatives. Always keep in mind that small problems must be treated immediately and properly. 

A temporary fix for minor problems will eventually turn into major damages, thus creating a "domino effect"... 

This is why it is imperative that we understand what to look for, how to prevent them, and when. 

Crepe Myrtles

This past winter was really tough on Crepe Myrtles and most are dead due to unusually high levels of moisture; partly from leftover snow that was covering the ground and partly from the cool, rainy spring we've been having. 

That said, they may be prone to mildew which causes the leaves to curl and flowers to bud without blooming. So, take notice of the sprouts on your Crepe Myrtles; if you don't see any by now then they will need to be pulled out and replaced. 

Crepe Myrtles are typically low maintenance and perform best in moist soil. However, don't let them fool you. They also need at least eight hours of sunlight per day. Less than 8 hours could be the reason your Crepe Myrtle(s) didn't last. 

Most insects will not harm your Crepe Myrtle(s), but you might notice what looks like a tough, dark dirt on the leaves. THIS IS NOT DIRT! 

This is actually fungus (or black mold or mildew) that grows on dew or sap that is secreted from certain insects.

Aphids, scales and white flies are sap feeders and you will need to watch out for them. 

These insects love the heat, so don't wait until it's too hot or too late to prevent them from damaging your beautiful foliage! 

May 2014 Edition of Linda's Corner

Flowers!

May is my favorite month for flowers. With an abundance of assorted colors to choose from, the right combination can really make your yard "POP". Remaining aware of bloom times for annuals and perennials will allow you to enjoy vibrant color all summer long. A few easy maintenance tips can mean all the difference between dull, weak plants and bright, thriving plants.

• "Dead-head" annuals to allow space for new flowers. Removing finished blooms will enable the plant to concentrate all it's energy on pushing new buds.
• Dig and divide early blooming perennials immediately after flowering if desired.
• Move house plants outdoors only after night temps are consistently above
  50-60 degrees F.
• Prune early Spring flowering shrubs after bloom to assure a healthy full bloom
  for next year.
• Be conscious of where you are planting sun thriving or shade loving plants. As temps increase this becomes more of a factor.
• When planting both annuals and perennials, loosen up the root ball before planting to encourage immediate root growth.

While I concentrate a large portion of my time and energy on my plants, I never forget about my lawn. Nothing makes a property look better than a think healthy green lawn. May is a good time to fertilize your lawn and apply a crab grass pre-emergent if  you had problems in the past. Tackling weeds early will lead to an easier, more inexpensive solution. Keeping a regular cutting schedule is key to having a beautiful lawn.

Best Trees and Plants for Privacy

Are you looking for more privacy in your yard but you really don't want a fence. Go for a natural approach. There are lots of choices and benefits to planting a hedge:

• Privacy from neighbors and street traffic
• Reduction in noise
• Protection from harsh winds

Evergreens come in a vast variety of species, some growing slow or fast, tall or low and can be shaped and pruned to specific shapes and sizes. Some popular choices are:

• Leland Cypress (Deer resistant)
• Green Giant Arborvitae - fast growing and can grow up to 60' (Deer resistant)
• Emerald Arborvitae grows 10' to 15'

Some people prefer to have natural privacy fencing that offers color, fragrance and the opportunity to bring flowers indoors for arrangements. If that sounds like you, you may want Rose of Sharon. These can grow to heights of 8' to 10' and when planted in a row, they develop into a dense privacy screen covered in flowers. They come in varieties with blue, white, pink or lavender flowers. Other plants that are popular are lilacs which can grow up to 15' tall and 6' to 12' ft. wide. Their flowers can be white, pink, purple or magenta. Another favorite and commonly used plant is Forsythia and a personal favorite is Hydrangea which also come in a variety of colors.

Ornamental grasses also make a great alternative. They can grow anywhere from 1' to 9'  tall depending on the variety. Most bloom in mid summer. They are an easy care, low maintenance choice that also offers flowers you can cut and bring indoors. Some species though can be invasive.

Call us if you need more privacy in your yard.
We'll help you decide which works best for you and your location - 908-834-2675.