November 3rd, 2021 at 3:52 pm 
Old man winter is almost here! It’s important to put your landscape to bed before the winter season. Here are the top five things to remember before the snow flies:
1. Winterize your irrigation system.
Winterizing your irrigation system prevents costly damage and repairs. A sprinkler winterization or “blowout” clears the irrigation lines of excess water before the ground freezes. By skipping this service, the pipes, sprinkler heads, valves and even the water meter is at risk for damage- causing major headaches down the road. The best time to get this service done is during the month of October or before the first frost.
2. Burlap trees and vulnerable plants.
Newly planted trees and those at risk for heavy wind or sun exposure can be wrapped during the winter months. Burlap is the best barrier for arborvitae and evergreens, as it blocks the cold while allowing the trees to still breathe. Small shrubs, boxwoods and even perennials benefit from the extra protection. Any questions regarding the best method of protection for your plants should always be addressed to a tree specialist or landscape professional.
3. Move patio furniture into storage.
Pavers, stone and any kind of hardscaping is susceptible to weathering from items left outside during the wintertime. For example, metal patio furniture can leave rust marks on your hardscaping that are very difficult to remove. Same for painted or stained decks, and wooden railings. In addition to your patio, keep in mind items left in the grass like hose boxes, flower pots or lawn furniture, as these items can cause divots and discoloring to your landscape.
4. One last mow.
The last cut of the year is an important! In Michigan, this can be done typically in late October/early November, depending on the level of moisture in the soil. Cutting your grass during this time not only strengthens the individual blades of grass, but prevents long grass from becoming tangled, which can cause fungal outbreaks in the spring (snow mold).
5. Fall cleanup services.
Clearing out gardening debris, dead plants, excessive leaves, and weeds, will help your garden look fresh next blooming season. Excess material in your garden beds harbor bacterial and mold growth, discoloring foliage and potentially killing plants entirely. To go the extra mile, try adding a new layer of mulch to the beds after cleanup to keep the soil warm and help your plants adjust to the change in temperature.
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September 3rd, 2021 at 9:48 am
Did you know purple is the color of royalty? Among all the flowering plants in Michigan, purple blooms are a fan favorite. Bright purple flowers create beautiful curb appeal and uniqueness to any landscape design. Here are our favorite purple perennials of all time.
1. Nepeta- A good choice for rock gardens or edging, Nepeta is drought-resistant and durable to pests like rabbit and deer. Also known as “Catmint” this flower blooms from early spring through summertime, requires little maintenance, and attracts pollinators of all kinds.
2. Salvia- Known for its long bloom time during the summer months, Salvia is a dependable perennial. There are hundreds of varieties of Salvia, the most common to Michigan being “Woodland Sage” which produces violet blooms through September. Also, Salvia is a favorite snack for butterflies.
3. Caesar’s Brother Iris- Irises do well around water features and are known for their tall foliage. Caesar’s Brother is known for dark purple blooms with light yellow and black veining on the inside of the flower. Blooms last for a few weeks in the early summer and their leaves remain a beautiful green color until first frost.
4. Penstemon- These purple beauties, also known as Beardtongue, bloom in early summer. There are over 250 varieties of Penstemon, growing anywhere in the range of a few inches to a few feet tall. Penstemon have small bell-shaped flowers that remain a vibrant purple color until high temperatures take over in mid-summer.
5. Cone Flower- Otherwise known as Echinacea, cone flowers are part of the daisy family. They are extremely draught-tolerant, maintain their blooms for about 8 weeks during the summer months and can grow upwards of about 4 feet tall. The name "cone flower" comes from the characteristic "cone" at the center of the flower head, attracting pollinators of all kinds.
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August 20th, 2021 at 11:50 am
Did you know that landscaping can add as much as 14% to your home’s resale value? Great landscape design not only enhances the curb appeal but may also increase the overall worth of your property. Here are 5 ways landscaping boosts the value of your home:
1. Boost in curb appeal
First, the obvious. Investing in your landscape boosts the curb appeal of your home and the community as a whole. Great design, layout, color palate, etc. can greatly complement your home’s exterior. With a wide variety of trees, shrubs and perennials to select from, the options are endless.
2. Maintenance perks
A well-maintained exterior leaves the impression of a well-cared for interior. At first glance, a beautiful landscape reflects the care and attention you put into the inside of your home. From a real estate point of view, this can definitely boost the value of your home and the community you live in.
3. Mood booster – enjoy the view!
Chances are, if you enjoy the view out your window, a positive mood will follow! It is known that after a stressful day at work, homeowners looking at a yard with a view of natural elements such as trees and flowers experience less job pressure, feel satisfied with their jobs and report fewer ailments and headaches than those who either had no outside view or could only see built elements from their windows.
4. Environmental boost
Better air quality and sound mitigation are perks of a healthy landscape. Trees and shrubs are known to improve air quality and control excessive road noise. Bright and colorful flowers will attract pollinators, bees and hummingbirds too, encouraging a green and thriving ecosystem.
5. Better privacy
Another fun option to improve the value of your home would be to install raised planters. This adds height while creating privacy. Try planting low-maintenance shrubs and grasses like Boxwoods, Blue Arrow Juniper, Karl Forester Grasses or even Limelight Hydrangeas. Having a raised planter also leaves room to add a pop of colorful annual flowers!
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July 30th, 2021 at 9:59 am
Michigan weather is unpredictable! This season, our state has seen unpredictable, drastic temperature changes, excessive rain and A LOT of humidity. Some plants enjoy the heavy moisture, such as young trees, ferns and grass. But for other varieties, too much moisture can cause damage and disease. Here are a few red flags.
Disease
Most fungal diseases thrive in humid conditions. White fungus can be prominent, especially on plants that have dark foliage. Keep an eye out for a powdery mildew that develops on leaves. As the fungus progresses, you may notice discoloring of flowers and branches. This condition is generally mild and resolves on its own as the humidity subsides, but long stretches of moisture may cause a need for treatment. Try cutting back any dead branches or flowers to control the disease. The Ninebark species (see below) is especially prone to white fungus collecting on the tops of its leaves.
Damage
An excess of moisture can lead to unrepairable damage. For example, root rot occurs when insufficient drainage causes water to collect in the surrounding soil. As a result, roots are choked out and the plant will die. Make sure container plants and garden beds have sufficient drainage in place and all irrigation is timed accordingly.
Insects
Humidity can cause insect infestations in your garden. Open areas of water, even the smallest droplets on leaves and in pots are good breeding grounds for insects. Always do your research before applying any kind of pest repellant and make sure your plants are placed in an area where water will not pool.
Weed growth
Too much moisture can encourage weeds to pop up in your plant beds. A good weeding regimen will ensure your landscape has sufficient room to grow. Pulling the weeds not only helps the root system thrive, but also prevents invasive plants like crabgrass, dandelions, etc. from transferring seeds into the next growing season.
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July 9th, 2021 at 2:06 pm
Are mushrooms making an appearance on your lawn this summer? Getting rid of them is easier than you’d think. Mushrooms are a common type of fungus that thrive in areas with lots of moisture. Heavy rain allows fungal spores to spread during the summer months. However, they are perfectly healthy for the surrounding ecosystem. Here are a few ways to easily get rid of mushrooms and prevent them from popping up in the future.
1. Don’t panic
Michigan is a mushroom hot spot! Over 2,500 species of mushrooms have been identified throughout the state. Mushrooms are a sign of healthy soil and that your property is well irrigated! Fungal spores tend to spread in healthy soil, as the grass has established a healthy root system. Too much moisture may increase the likelihood of mushroom clusters, especially in shady areas of your property.
2. How to remove them
The most efficient way of getting rid of mushrooms is to manually pull them out of the ground, including the base. This method provides the least amount of damage to your grass. Using a chemical weed killer won’t stop the fungal spores from spreading beneath the soil and may potentially harm the grass or surrounding plants. Mushrooms love moisture! So be careful not to overwater your lawn and ensure proper drainage is installed throughout your property.
3. Long-term prevention
Proper drainage of the soil can be accomplished through fall Core Aeration services. Combine that with a Healthy Lawn Care Fertilization Program- this will prevent mushroom growth next growing season. If you have an irrigation system, make sure the zones evenly cover your property and the timer is working properly. Lastly, it’s never a bad idea to regularly remove any dead or organic material from your property like tree branches, as this may harbor a shady environment for unwanted mushrooms.
Call the pros at D.A. Alexander for more information on Lawn Aeration Services at (734) 427-0030.
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June 25th, 2021 at 1:07 pm
The decisions surrounding your next landscaping project are made with plenty of budgeting, design and patience. There are many moving parts throughout the process alongside the pressure to choose the right company to design your outdoor space. Here is a checklist for organizing your ideas and helping with your planning process.
1. Who will utilize your new landscape?
For families and kids, a playscape may be in the mix, or you may want to designate an area to kick around the soccer ball. An open, grassy space would be perfect to accommodate pets and ensure there is enough space for entertaining guests. If hosting parties is your thing, hardscaping and pavers create ample seating space and provide a central location for your event. Any special accommodations such as wheelchair access, ramps, handrails, etc. can also be incorporated into a custom design.
2. What is your favorite season to be outdoors?
The answer to this question will help decide what outdoor features come into play! In Michigan, cold temperatures are perfect for a gas firepit or fireplace which can be added to both new and existing patio spaces. If you love being outdoors during the summer months, consider a pergola structure to block the sun and designate a good spot for the grill. For spring and fall, consider a unique garden bed to highlight seasonal flowers and trees.
3. Favorite types of plants?
Ask a designer which areas of your landscape are best suited for your favorite types of plants. If there are any views on your property to preserve, consider removing the plants that hinder your field of vision and add smaller perennial plantings or shrubs. Need more privacy? Over time, arborvitae for example, grow very tall, creating a nice barrier between you and your neighbor.
4. Budget Accordingly.
As a homeowner, new landscapes are a great investment! At D.A. Alexander & Company, our designers will work with your vision and your budget to create a beautiful environment that you will enjoy for years to come.
To discuss your project with a D.A. Designer, contact our office at 734-427-0030.
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May 27th, 2021 at 1:47 pm
Pavers have come a long way. From the traditional brick-and-mortar style you remember at grandma’s house, to the endless colors and shapes currently on the market, hardscaping has certainly changed for the better. If you are looking to enhance your outdoor space, here are a few ways to add paver technology into your landscape.
1. Walkways and Edging
Define your garden beds with edging pavers to create a unique border around existing plants and shrubs. Edging protects plants from weeds and excess grass and, when paired with a paver-walkway, it reduces muddy foot-traffic.
2. Driveways
Add a colorful paver border to an existing asphalt driveway or replace the asphalt entirely for a completely updated look. There are endless color combinations and textures to match the architecture of your home, and new manufacturing options help the pavers keep their shape and color for years to come.
3. Retaining Walls & Steps
Retaining walls are great for sloped areas where the land may not be suitable for a garden or other landscaping. Staircases can also be constructed out of pavers, most often capped with ledgestone for a sleek finish.
4. Fire Pits & Grills
There’s nothing more inviting than a cozy fire! Textured pavers can be used to build a sunken fire pit or outdoor fireplace. Match the pavers with the color of your siding and add accent stone for a completely custom design. Most pavers are often heat-resistant and ideal for backsplashes or accent walls in outdoor kitchens, grills and bar settings.
5. Outdoor Seating
Pavers make beautiful seating areas. Construct single benches or use ledgestone to cap existing retaining walls, saving money (and space) on outdoor furniture.
6. Water Features & Poolscapes
Whether you live in the suburbs or on acres of land, water features add a unique focal point to your landscape. Smooth, permeable pavers are a common selection around built-in pools, as they dry quickly and are less prone to seasonal damage. Elegant waterfalls can be added in and around existing pools, or use pavers to build stand-alone waterfalls near natural ponds or man-made bodies of water.
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May 13th, 2021 at 9:46 am
Most Michigan homeowners have dealt with crabgrass at some point during the summer months. It’s an ugly weed that pops up virtually everywhere and it’s an eyesore to otherwise healthy landscapes. Getting rid of crabgrass is all about timing. Here are a few steps you can take to help control the issue:
1. Make sure it’s crabgrass.
A lawncare professional can help identify crabgrass. It’s important to know exactly what type of weeds are overtaking your lawn. Typically, crabgrass hangs lower than normal grass to the point where a standard mower is unable to trim it during a regular lawn cutting. The crabgrass stalks sprawl horizontally and growth can get fairly long.
2. Break the cycle in early spring.
Pre-emergent herbicide should be applied in early spring before the crabgrass germinates and spreads to other parts of the yard. If the application timing is right, you will have prevented the weeds from taking over next year as well. It’s important to select a herbicide that is safe for kids, pets and adults.
3. Kill the weeds, not your grass.
If the crabgrass is still hanging around by late summer, a post-emergent herbicide should be applied. A fertilization technician can recommend which type of herbicide has the power to selectively kill only the crabgrass weeds and not your grass. It’s important to select herbicides that are meant to kill the plant itself- not your grass or other surrounding landscape plants.
Keep your neighbor in mind! If a nearby yard is taken over by crabgrass, there’s a chance the seeds could spread to your property. If this is the case, a fertilizer technician can implement techniques to help minimize the spread and appearance of weeds.
At D.A. Alexander & Company, we’d be happy to discuss a plan to help you achieve barefoot grass! Contact us at 734-427-0030 for more information.
Photo by Kevin Frank | Michigan State University Extension
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April 30th, 2021 at 11:43 am
What is considered a small tree? Shockingly, a small tree can be considered anything that grows up to 30 feet tall. Here are a few of our favorite showy and space-conscious trees for any landscape.
1.) Downy Serviceberry: Commonly known as Juneberry, these white spring flowers are a sight to be seen! Aside from being a functional and beautiful tree, the serviceberry has a tasty twist that most homeowners overlook. Come June, this tree’s fruit begins to ripen and if you play your cards right, you might get a little treat before the birds beat you to it.
2.) Paper Bark Maple: This tree is perfect if you appreciate more than just flowers, fruit and showy fall color. With a mature height of about 25’, this tree deserves to be the focal point of any outdoor living space. As this tree matures, the exfoliation becomes more aggressive and the bark turns a rich cinnamon color.
3.) Eastern Redbud: There are over 30 different cultivars of this tree and you will have no problem finding one that fits in your small, compact garden. If you can be patient, this tree will act as a small shade tree that will take your outdoor living experience to a new level of enjoyment! Their almost neon-colored flowers bloom in springtime and give way to bronze leaves by summer.
4.) Arborvitae: Arborvitae are great privacy trees. Perfect for small yards, these trees do well in compact spaces next to pavers or fences and are virtually maintenance free. Arborvitae trees can withstand cold Michigan winters and their foliage stays green all year round.
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October 23rd, 2020 at 2:09 pm
Summertime is over, temperatures have dropped and those colorful annuals are now brown. It's time to add some gorgeous fall hues to your property!
Here are a few seasonal plants that provide vibrant, bold-colored leaves during the fall and early winter months:
1. Oakleaf Hydrangea - In the summer, the leaves of the oakleaf hydrangea are bright green and are accompanied by tiny white flowers. Unlike most hydrangeas, the leaves change to a vibrant red color in the fall. This plant requires very little maintenance, produces quite a bit of foliage and looks beautiful year-round.
2. Coral Bells - During the fall months, this plant withstands heavy rain (and muddy soil) along with cold temperatures. Coral bells range in color and are often found in shades of dark purple, orange, caramel or peach. Try adding to a planter or add as edging along sidewalks or pavers.
3. Ninebark (Physocarpus) - If you're a fan of warm tones, the ninebark shrub is for you. Once flowering season is over, the leaves remain lush and change to a deep orange or burgundy color. Ninebark is a staple shrub in Michigan and is extremely draught tolerant.
4. Ornamental Cabbage - Cabbage leaves come in a variety of colors like deep or dark purple, vibrant pink and even white. If you are a fan of super bold colors, try adding cabbage as a showcase plant in the front of your landscape. Cabbage survives well into November and December and requires minimal maintenance.
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