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The Benefits of Mulching Around Trees
Mulching around trees will not only look good in your front yard landscape, but will also improve the soil’s moisture retention capacity. Mulching your trees and
Landscaping on a hill can be difficult because of the physical effort it can take and because of water erosion. The problem landscapers face is that every time it rains the roots on your shrubs and plants become just a little more exposed. Then eventually they lose their rooting altogether and the plants die and get washed away. However, you can break the flow of the water by strategically adding rocks to the area. The Good NewsThe good news is that landscaping rock slows the erosion process and adds aesthetic value to your property when done right. So the process involves more than just putting gravel or large rocks on your slope. Groundcover rock needs to be placed in such a way that it remains stable and won’t wash away. And boulders need to be bedded down so that they don’t eventually dislodge. And, of course, the right use of the proper plants and shrubs can help root the soil in place while providing splashes of color. 5 Ideas for Landscaping on a HillOne of the most appealing features of landscaping on a hill is that you can take your landscape design to the next level. You have the full spectrum of landscaping mediums to play with, such as grass, soil, rock, and plant life on a variety of elevations. And the ability to terrace and to create elaborately landscaped points of interest with retaining walls, raised beds, stone steps, and patios on your hillside affords you a great opportunity. You have the chance to create nearly any type of landscaping design, from simple to elaborate designs, ranging from a low-maintenance xeriscape or a wildflower meadow to an elegantly hardscaped and finely sculpted backyard landscaper’s paradise. Read on for 5 creative landscaping ideas for hilly slopes. 1. Xeriscape Your HillsideWhat is xeriscaping? Xeriscaping is a landscaping approach where plants are chosen that can flourish requiring as little water as possible. The landscape designer usually begins with a selection of native plants and grasses. Then sometimes, other similar species that adapt and perform well in the local environment are added. After this, attractive stone designs and hardscape features are used to slow runoff and add beauty. Xeriscaping has really caught on here at Lake of the Ozarks in the past few years. Homeowners can transform their erosion-prone hillside into an oasis with environmental advantages and breeds fewer pests. ![]() 2. Landscape a Wildflower MeadowHiking or strolling through a field of wildflowers and natural grasses on a hillside is one of the nicest ways to enjoy nature in your yard. You will be rewarded with spectacular colors and an array of textures, such as sloping rock creekbeds, boulder arrangements, ledge stone features, or rock gardens. This natural wildflower meadow will also provide spectacular views from your home and patio or deck. Wildflower meadows are beautiful. Plus, they offer easy integration of your landscape into the natural environment. Additionally, your property will offer a welcoming habitat for pollinators and other local wildlife. This low maintenance approach with native plants and rock allows the wildflowers and grasses to grow through their full life cycle without interference or pruning and shaping. So your otherwise unusable hill area becomes an infiltration zone for stormwater, thus curbing soil erosion. So you create the most important elements of sustainable landscapes. After performing some maintenance to help plants get well-established for one or two seasons, your hillside wildflower preserve will need almost no water, fertilizer, and work. ![]() 3. Rock Landscaping on a Hill
Another popular way to manage to landscape a hillside is to do it with rocks and hardscapes. In an area like ours where there are lots of steep slopes and long hills, the use of decorative landscape gravels is easy and inexpensive. Plus, there are so many forms of rock texture and colors available, you get a lot of options. And you eliminate mowing those steep hills, making it perfect for lake homes or second homes. So there’s no worrying about hiring someone to take care of your lawn when you’re not around. You can still punctuate your rock hillside with stunning elements like natural stone stairs, colorful shrubs or flowers, and retaining walls to allow for stone patios and fire pits. One of the popular choices for lake homes at Lake of the Ozarks is to build a nice flagstone or bluestone patio near the lake. And people love to add fire features to their patios, like a stone fire pit, an outdoor fireplace, or a gas fire table. The ability to enjoy a fire near the lake is one of life’s more pleasant experiences. ![]() 4. Landscaping on a Slope with Retaining WallsThe use of retaining walls in sloped yards is the gold standard of landscaping on a hill. You get excellent drainage when they are installed correctly. But make sure to check with your landscaper on this because, sadly, not all landscapers handle this properly. When done incorrectly your retaining walls can bow and break down far too early, creating unnecessary expense. Though more expensive, we prefer the use of natural stone or a high-quality retaining wall block. You get the best of aesthetic elegance and strength combined. With retaining walls you can create nice terraced areas with a nice flat lawn if that’s your preference. Or you can build terraced patios which are great for larger outdoor gatherings. One thing is certain, and that is that retaining walls can afford you a great deal of creative flexibility in your landscape design. ![]() 5. Landscape a Hillside Rock GardenNo matter which type of design you choose when you decide how to landscape a slope, it is likely to present an engineering challenge. Water runs off quickly, soil slides away, plants contend with the pull of gravity and the loss of soil, while fertilizers and nutrients mostly just wash away. However, when landscaping on a hill, particularly in a smaller yard, another popular idea is to transform your slope into a rock garden or rockery. And in doing so, the stones become an obstacle that can slow or even alleviate the kinds of problems mentioned above. And the best part is that a rock garden is a joy to the eyes where the organic stone textures complement the natural beauty of plants and flowers. Rocks add texture, depth, and visual importance to your landscaping design. ![]() Start Planning Your Landscaper’s Paradise TodayAs always, we’re here to help, so give us a call if you need help landscaping on a hill to create your landscaper’s paradise! Visit our website, give us a call, and follow us on Facebook for more information. And be sure to watch for our next article: How to Landscape a Hillside Rock Garden. Read more helpful articles from our blog: ![]() The Benefits of Mulching Around Trees
February 26, 2021 No Comments
Mulching around trees will not only look good in your front yard landscape, but will also improve the soil’s moisture retention capacity. Mulching your trees and ![]() How to Maintain Hardscapes When the Winter Weather is Bad
February 18, 2021 No Comments
We’re still in the grasp of winter here in mid-Missouri, and we know that winter can be hard on landscaping. When it comes to maintaining ![]() What Is Mulching, Really? The Hidden Benefits of Mulching Your Plants
February 5, 2021 No Comments
It’s February and as people start getting cabin fever, thoughts turn to spring. With springtime comes gardening and landscaping. And with gardening and landscaping comes…mulching! The post 5 Reasons Why Landscaping on a Hill is a Landscaper’s Paradise appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/5-reasons-why-landscaping-on-a-hill-is-a-landscapers-paradise/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/646112688537206784
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Mulching around trees will not only look good in your front yard landscape, but will also improve the soil’s moisture retention capacity. Mulching your trees and shrubs also reduces the amount of soil erosion, keeps the soil cool, and provides additional nutrients for healthy plants. And it minimizes potential damage to your tree from mowers and weed trimmers. When you do mulch around your trees, you should be aware of the frequency at which the mulch needs to be applied. Do not let mulch become too thin and wash away the nutrients that your small trees need. Important: Avoid Creating Mulch VolcanosA very important mulching practice for this application is to remember that you mustn’t mound your mulch up. You don’t need any more than two to four inches of mulch spread evenly around the base of the tree. One often sees mulch piled high near a tree’s trunk forming a “mulch volcano”. See to it that your mulch is kept a few inches away from the trunk of the tree. Creating mounds is a terrible practice that can kill trees. Remember, too much mulch around trees will rob them of oxygen and make them susceptible to insects, decay, and leaf spot fungus. Bookmark this video for an excellent resource regarding mulching around trees. Types of Mulch to UseThere are many options available on the market for mulching around trees. You can make your own mulch with leftovers from your home or garden or you can buy bags or bulk mulch from a local dealer. The following are some of the more popular options. Organic MulchWhen we talk about mulching around trees, there are several types of mulches to choose from. And most homeowners like the organic mulching types which are made from natural materials like bark, grass clippings, and twigs. These materials get processed to make a good, healthy organic material that’s great to mulch with. Furthermore, this kind of mulching around trees helps to preserve the soil and retain the moisture level within the soil. Additionally, mulching with organic matter will greatly reduce weed growth near the tree base. This prevents weeds from leeching from the important nutrients your trees need. Homemade Organic OptionsIf you want to create a more natural effect when mulching your trees, then you can try applying a thin layer of organic matter on the surface you are planning to mulch. Organic matter like straw or cardboard can provide good source materials. Cardboard is made from paper, so it originates from a natural organic source–trees. Thus, being an organic compound, as it decomposes it will release carbon into the ground. It’s also a good idea to moisten the cardboard and then layer other organic material or mulch on top of it. Likewise, straw can be shredded to make it easier to spread across the surface, and it will break down more quickly. You can also use shredded leaves or grass clippings. Wood ChipsAnother excellent method of mulching is to use wood chips. Wood chips are ideal when mulching your trees because they are soft and they decompose slowly. This process also helps keep soil moist, which is important because you want healthy plant growth. Wood chips can also be used on flower beds or in any open space around the outside of your home. ![]() Winter MulchAnother mulching strategy is to apply winter mulch. Winter mulch helps retain heat within the soil for longer periods of time. This can be very effective as it helps to retain moisture and it helps protect the roots against freezing. If you apply layers of winter mulch around your trees, they will remain warm for a few more months which can help stabilize temperatures. Thus, it protects them from sudden temperature changes that can result in damage during the winter season. Materials that work well for winter mulch can include pine needles, straw, branches, wood shavings, sawdust, paper, cardboard, and even animal waste. This type of mulching around trees is ideal for homeowners who wish to have more control over their plant life during the colder months of the year. Heartland Landscape Group is a full-service landscape company in Osage Beach, MO. When you contract us, we do our best to give you best-in-class customer service and workmanship. We have served the Lake of the Ozarks area for decades. Visit our website, give us a call, and follow us on Facebook for more information. Read more helpful articles from our blog: ![]() How to Maintain Hardscapes When the Winter Weather is Bad
February 18, 2021 No Comments
We’re still in the grasp of winter here in mid-Missouri, and we know that winter can be hard on landscaping. When it comes to maintaining ![]() What Is Mulching, Really? The Hidden Benefits of Mulching Your Plants
February 5, 2021 No Comments
It’s February and as people start getting cabin fever, thoughts turn to spring. With springtime comes gardening and landscaping. And with gardening and landscaping comes…mulching! ![]() When to Mulch and When Not to Mulch
January 22, 2021 No Comments
When to mulch? Excellent question! This is because timing is critical when it comes to applying mulch in your garden or landscape. Mulching is the process The post The Benefits of Mulching Around Trees appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/the-benefits-of-mulching-around-trees/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/644217729451180032 We’re still in the grasp of winter here in mid-Missouri, and we know that winter can be hard on landscaping. When it comes to maintaining hardscapes, the formation of significant cracks or chips in all types of paving stones can be really bad. Still, when you are careful to do proper hardscape maintenance in the wintertime, it will pay dividends when warmer weather returns. Rather than doing all kinds of springtime repairs, you’ll be able to get right to the important business of enjoying your outdoor living spaces and your backyard. The following tips will help you do the right things to maintain your hardscapes during the winter. 1. Shovel it offDuring strong winter storm patterns, it can seem as though shoveling your driveway is a daunting task. Here at Lake of the Ozarks, lots of our homes are built on hills, so we’ve got to clean off the drive in order to get out. Nonetheless, if you stay ahead of the snow piling up it will actually be easier to maintain your hardscapes throughout the rest of the year. This is because when the pavers in your driveway and backyard hardscapes are clear of snow and ice, they less likely to incur damage from freeze-thaw cycles. This is particularly true when you have more porous landscape stone because it’s easier for water to seep into them. Then when the water freezes and expands it will cause cracks. So, whether you choose a broom, shovel, or snow-blower as your weapon of choice, removing the snow from your patio, walkways, and driveway is very important. Just remember that if you use a shovel, make sure it’s a plastic snow shovel or one that’s rubber-tipped. We strongly recommend that you not use a metal shovel, as it can easily mar and cause chips in bricks, pavers, and stone. 2. Remove Ice from Hardscapes
However, we encourage you to check with a professional or research the product you’re using and its effects on hardscapes. Some de-icers can harm pavers, concrete, or stone. While you’re dealing with ice you should seek to discover how the excess water ended up on your patio or walk. Is there a leaking gutter or downspout draining where it shouldn’t? These are common culprits, allowing the water runoff from your roof to go where you don’t want it. Make mental note so you can repair your gutters or downspouts in the spring, or have a contractor check it for you. 3. Repair any CracksAfter you have cleared your driveway, patio, and walkways of all the snow and ice it’s time to check for cracks. Contrary to what you may expect, the winter months are actually the optimum time to deal with those cracks. If you fill the crack with paver sand, it will defend against more snow and ice from seeping into the paving stones. And this prevents those small fissures from becoming larger. If you will do this simple fix all winter long when spring arrives your bricks and landscaping pavers will look excellent! ![]() Call Heartland Landscape Group for your hardscape needs!Heartland Landscape Group is a full-service landscape design-and-build firm that provides top-quality services to Lake of the Ozarks and surrounding areas. We’re proud of the exceptional work we perform every day for our customers. This is a great time to plan and schedule your spring landscaping projects, so give us a call! Our services include custom hardscaping and landscaping services, creative stonework, patios, walkways, water features, and more. You can also count on us for the lake’s top-quality landscape and hardscape construction for residential and commercial properties. Visit our website, give us a call, and follow us on Facebook for more information.
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![]() What Is Mulching, Really? The Hidden Benefits of Mulching Your Plants
February 5, 2021 No Comments
It’s February and as people start getting cabin fever, thoughts turn to spring. With springtime comes gardening and landscaping. And with gardening and landscaping comes…mulching! ![]() When to Mulch and When Not to Mulch
January 22, 2021 No Comments
When to mulch? Excellent question! This is because timing is critical when it comes to applying mulch in your garden or landscape. Mulching is the process ![]() How to Lay Patio Pavers: Why Hire a Professional Landscape Company?
January 8, 2021 No Comments
Patio pavers require proper installation to help ensure that the sidewalk, patio, or drive that you are paving lasts for years to come. As you The post How to Maintain Hardscapes When the Winter Weather is Bad appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/how-to-maintain-hardscapes-when-the-winter-weather-is-bad/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/643492926695096320 It’s February and as people start getting cabin fever, thoughts turn to spring. With springtime comes gardening and landscaping. And with gardening and landscaping comes…mulching! So, to provide an overview, what is mulching? Most people view it as simply spreading mulch around plants for decoration and water preservation. But let’s go deeper. So, what is mulching as it relates to deeper soil and plant issues in your garden or landscape? Two Main Types of MulchMulch, sometimes also known as compost, is a thick layer of material usually applied to the top of the soil surface. It used to be that mostly organic material was used, but we now also use inorganic materials for mulching, as well. And while there are many materials available, the two primary types of mulch are organic and inorganic. Organic MulchOrganic mulch is material that has been chopped, broken down, or composted from some form of living material. Materials like wood chips, straw, and bark tend to be the most popular. One of the prime benefits is that organic composts eventually break down themselves, adding organic matter, and, thus they improve the soil. ![]() Inorganic MulchInorganic mulch is material that does not break down or decompose, such as landscape gravels or rubber mulch. However, rubber will eventually break down, but only over a very long time. Inorganic materials may cost more on the front-end, but the beneficial trade-off is that they tend to be more cost-efficient over time. The reason is that they don’t need to be applied with each new growth or dormancy season or even every year. Reasons to MulchAs we know, reasons for applying mulch include conservation of moisture and decorative purposes. However, some of the lesser-known benefits of mulching include:
This layer aids in the retention of moisture by forming an impermeable layer over the top. This layer, in turn, aerates the earth’s crust and improves the water holding capacity of the soil thereby enhancing its fertility. Mulching can also improve the texture of your garden bed by acting as a spongy cushioning layer and helping to retain the original shape of your garden bed, thus protecting it from weed seeds that may penetrate through to the ground. Mulching increases soil fertility.The first deeper reason to mulch is to improve the soil’s fertility. As it creates the impermeable layer of organic matter on the top, the soil is better able to retain the valuable nutrients that are available to it. The foremost among these nutrients is nitrogen, which is necessary to supply the growing needs of plants. Nitrogen is widely deemed to be the most important component for promoting health and growth. It is part of the makeup of chlorophyll, which is essential to the plant’s food creating process by means of photosynthesis. Chlorophyll also assigns plants their green color when they’re healthy. The next most important nutrient that is conserved is phosphorous. Phosphorus is vital in every stage of plant development and growth. It is integral to a wide range of biological processes and is a key factor in helping your plant convert and retain energy from sunlight during photosynthesis. Thus, it promotes root development and growth, flowering and fruit production, and delivering nutrients. ![]() Mulching improves the health and nutrition of the soil.The second reason it’s important to mulch is that the moisture conserved in the soil creates a better environment for plant root growth. Applying mulch helps protect the structure of the soil and shield it from erosive winds and other forces that can break up the soil. This protects the structural integrity of your soil making it healthier for plant growth and less susceptible to erosive forces. You are, in effect, creating a shield or “barrier” for your plants to protect the soil from destructive rainfall, ice, or snowfall. When you protect the soil in this way, maintaining the consistency of the soil makes it possible for your plants to root better. Plus, you also protect the valuable afore-mentioned nutrients. This is especially important in areas prone to drought or high amounts of rain or snow. Mulching prevents an overabundance of moisture from seeping into the soil and leaching away from the roots of your plants. Mulching inhibits weed growth and harmful insects.One more primary benefit of using mulch is the protection of your plants and shrubs against weed invasion and harmful insects. When you mulch your garden, your soil will become a healthier, cleaner environment. Furthermore, it helps to deter the growth of harmful weeds and limits the number of insects and pests in your garden. So, ultimately this can significantly improve the overall health of your plants and shrubs. Healthy and clean soil is a vital requirement for a healthy garden. So by mulching, you are taking an important first step in the health of your plants. Summary: What Is Mulching?Applying high-quality organic mulch correctly is a key element in creating healthy, fertile soil for your plants. Plus, it looks great and makes upkeep much easier. So what is mulching? It’s applying a layer of organic compost or inorganic matter to your topsoil as an important step toward keeping your plants healthy. As always, Heartland Landscape Group is here to help. We’ll be glad to speak with you about installing new landscape features or updating your existing outdoor living spaces. Teaser: Be sure to check back in a few weeks as we’ll add more information on how to mulch around trees and mulch supplies!
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![]() When to Mulch and When Not to Mulch
January 22, 2021 No Comments
When to mulch? Excellent question! This is because timing is critical when it comes to applying mulch in your garden or landscape. Mulching is the process ![]() How to Lay Patio Pavers: Why Hire a Professional Landscape Company?
January 8, 2021 No Comments
Patio pavers require proper installation to help ensure that the sidewalk, patio, or drive that you are paving lasts for years to come. As you ![]() 7 Backyard Fire Pit Ideas – Landscaping Your Home Hideaway
December 24, 2020 No Comments
There are lots of backyard fire pit ideas landscaping lovers are building into their outdoor living spaces. Fire features are extremely popular among people who The post What Is Mulching, Really? The Hidden Benefits of Mulching Your Plants appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/what-is-mulching-really-the-hidden-benefits-of-mulching-your-plants/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/642303841126268928 When to mulch? Excellent question! This is because timing is critical when it comes to applying mulch in your garden or landscape. Mulching is the process of applying some type of organic compost on the soil surface to protect it and to enhance its condition for growing healthy plants. Timing matters greatly because doing so too soon or too late has the potential to cause problems. So the big question we’ll answer here is, “When should I mulch?” When to Mulch for Optimum BenefitThe time to mulch a garden in order to receive the optimum benefit depends on a couple of major factors. First, you need to consider the kinds of plants you plan to mulch. If you’re working with annuals, just do it when you plant them. But if you’re mulching perennials, you don’t want to apply it (mulch) when they’re waking out of dormancy. You should wait until they have either hardened or gone fully dormant. Mulching in the Spring
As you can see, being aware of when to mulch in the springtime is more than just waiting for the first warm spell. Mulching too soon will actually deter the ground’s warming process. And your soil depends on certain chemical and biological processes that occur during this stage. By the same token, mulching too late in the autumn can insulate the soil keeping your plants from properly entering dormancy. The dormancy period is necessary to help your plants come safely through the cold season. Mulching in the Winter or Late FallAs we head into the colder months of winter, the big question people often ask is, “Is this a good time to mulch or not to mulch?” Although I’m sure you can find many varied opinions on this subject, most with a background in horticulture will tell you to mulch. This does however come with a small warning. Winter mulching needs to be done after there is a heavy frost in the ground. Mulching has a number of benefits, and most usually only think of those that occur in the summer. These would include retaining moisture during our dry season and keeping the sun from baking the root systems of our treasured plants. But what most don’t consider is that mulch helps regulate the soil temperatures in winter. Although plants need a dormant season, here in the Midwest, our wildly fluctuating temperatures can have a detrimental effect on these tender plants. Knowing when to mulch late in the year means waiting until we get a strong frost in the ground. This helps keep the ground frozen, which deters the plants from kicking into their growth mode prematurely. It’s important to note that you should remove the old mulch gradually as the soil begins to warm in the spring. Your plants may experience a shock if you clear all the mulch away at once. Final ThoughtsIt’s best to not plan your mulching by the calendar. The truth is that the optimum time to mulch can come earlier or later in any given year. We’ve all seen spring seasons where it just rains and rains. And then it rains some more! A few seasons back, here at Lake of the Ozarks we were mulching into early summer due to late freezes and an extremely long wet season. Likewise, the best time to mulch can come sooner than you expect. So be flexible and use this guide to help!
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![]() When to Mulch and When Not to Mulch
January 22, 2021 No Comments
When to mulch? Excellent question! This is because timing is critical when it comes to applying mulch in your garden or landscape. Mulching is the process ![]() How to Lay Patio Pavers: Why Hire a Professional Landscape Company?
January 8, 2021 No Comments
Patio pavers require proper installation to help ensure that the sidewalk, patio, or drive that you are paving lasts for years to come. As you ![]() 7 Backyard Fire Pit Ideas – Landscaping Your Home Hideaway
December 24, 2020 No Comments
There are lots of backyard fire pit ideas landscaping lovers are building into their outdoor living spaces. Fire features are extremely popular among people who The post When to Mulch and When Not to Mulch appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/when-to-mulch/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/641046837097381889 Patio pavers require proper installation to help ensure that the sidewalk, patio, or drive that you are paving lasts for years to come. As you learn how to lay patio pavers you’ll need to spend time and work prepping the area adequately. If you skimp on this labor-intensive aspect of the job, you will soon see the pavers start to move and shift. This means that your pavers are not going to stay as neatly in place as you would have hoped. Generally, to get the best results, paver installation is best left up to a professional landscaping company. Patios are a wonderful place for us to entertain and enjoy the outdoors. Being set in a beautifully landscaped yard makes a patio that much more enjoyable. If you have your patio prepped and installed by professionals you will be able to enjoy it for years to come. However, knowing how to lay patio pavers is supremely important when you are deciding whether to attempt the installation yourself. While most people hire a professional landscaper, some will want to take on the DIY challenge for themselves. So, let’s take a good look at patio paver installation. First, what materials do you need for installing patio pavers?
Some of the tools that you will need are:
How to Lay Patio Pavers
Just remember that this is really a fairly simple job, but it’s not necessarily an easy job. You need to go slowly to ensure that you have done everything well and prepped correctly. Let’s get started on what you need to know about how to install patio pavers. While you are probably not an experienced stonemason, some homeowners can still do this and do it well. While many stonemasons would use mortar between the pavers, you probably shouldn’t try that. It can get messy and without proper training, you could mess up your new patio. Instead, that’s why you picked up some polymeric sand. Polymeric sand is what you will use to fill in those spaces between your pavers. Where to Start on your Paver InstallationTo begin, you will start with the base. Plan to dig or excavate the area (more on this later). The base will be about 5″ deep gravel with sand on top. The sand will be what the pavers rest on, you will complete the cracks as stated above. Your patio design is critical in determining how many pavers you will need. While some paver installations take lots of smaller pavers, others will require larger pavers. If you want to make this project a step easier, try to make a design that doesn’t have any cutting. To determine the area, you will need to know what size paver you plan to use and allow for a 1/4″ gap between each paver to ensure that you have accounted for the entire space. Paver patterns come in all sorts of designs, so take a minute to determine which paver pattern you would like to use in your paver installation. Next, you need to stake out the work area. This will act as a guide to ensure that your pavers are staying on track. You don’t want to get done and discover you don’t have nice straight lines and edges. Using the stakes, put them in each corner of your soon to be a patio. Then run a string around the stakes to make a square or rectangle type space. Excavating for your Patio or Sidewalk![]() Next, if we want to learn how to lay a patio using pavers right we are going to do our paver installation safely, correct? So whether you’re building a large backyard patio or small a garden walkway, you will need to call the local authority to come out and mark all of your existing utility lines and systems before you dig. This will ensure that you don’t have an ugly issue later! The twine will show exactly where you plan to dig, at least 5 inches down, remember? While you are awaiting their arrival, you can also call your local building permit office to ensure you don’t need to pull a permit for this sort of work. Some areas you do and some you don’t. Once you have the all-clear, you can start to dig around the perimeter of your new patio. If there is grass you should use a landscaper’s edger to get a nice clean cut. It’s good to dig down about 6″, as you want to be sure you have the full 5″ under the patio pavers. If you need to elevate the area a little, just add more gravel. Continue to remove the grass and dirt from the area. You can make use of the dirt in your garden or in some low spots you have on your lawn. Use the wheelbarrow to haul the dirt and grass away to a compost pile. If you are installing pavers over a large area you will want to use excavating equipment like a bobcat or a tractor with a blade. Flatten the GroundOnce you have your hole dug out, you will need to use a plate compactor or manual tamper to flatten down the dirt so that it is nice and smooth. Now is the time to get out of the landscaping fabric. This fabric should be laid down in two layers, with the second one crisscrossed, turned 90 degrees from the other. After installing the landscaping fabric, you will need to start your gravel base. In this step, you should put on a dust mask, as things will get dusty. Now you will put down a 2″ layer then tamp it down, then apply the next 2″ layer and tamp it so that it is straight and smooth. While doing this, you also want to elevate the gravel to create a slight angle to the patio. Doing so will allow for proper water runoff. The level of this run should be 1:4 from vertical to horizontal. To ensure that you have the proper run, you will use your bubble level to measure it. Place another layer of landscaping fabric over the top of the stones, so that the sand will not filter down into the stone. Lay your PVC pipes or electric conduit down in such a way that they give you a visual benchmark and help you level your 1″ layer of sand. Pour the sand and screed using the 2 x 4. Now you can begin laying your patio pavers in the pattern desired. ![]() Install your Paver StonesIt’s best to start in one corner of your patio that adjoins a vertical wall if you’re building your patio up against your house or some other structure. Lay the pavers out in the desired pattern. Work outward and downward in a triangular pattern. Set your pavers onto the sand, placing them straight down and fitting them together. Be careful not to drag the stone through the sand. Give each stone a tap with the rubber mallet to help bed it into place. Strike firmly but don’t hit it hard. Cut the Pavers as NeededIf your layout design necessitates cutting the pavers, carefully set the stone above the blank space in the layout. Mark a line on the paver using a marker and a straight edge. The best way to cut your pavers is to use a masonry saw. The use of gloves and eye protection is strongly advised when cutting the stone. Set the EdgingIf your patio is unconstrained by other structures, you should place edging stones along the edge of the patio, setting them with mortar. Add the Finishing TouchesYou’re almost done! To finish your new paver patio apply a light layer of polymeric sand over all the stones. You can sweep the sand into the cracks with a push broom, making sure the gaps are filled. Use more sand as needed. Then run a plate compactor across the entire surface of the installation. Repeat this process with another light layer of sand spreading it over the patio with the push broom. Use the plate compactor across the patio one final time. ![]() Other Paver Installation OptionsTechnology is always evolving, even in the masonry and hardscaping industry. Two of the more interesting technologies we’ve seen are the Rise-It Pedestal system and the Silca SoilGrid. We recommend checking out these links; they’re worth consideration for your journey in learning how to lay a patio using pavers. Final ConsiderationsThe entire process for laying patio pavers is not complicated but it can be demanding, especially if one is not physically fit and used to manual labor. So, as a homeowner, you will need to evaluate whether you have the time and energy to put into a patio project, especially if it’s a large one. Building a nice paver patio is an outstanding way to add both value and appeal to your backyard or outdoor space. The good news is that you can always call a professional landscaping company to learn more and to get a quote. Heartland Landscape Group is one of the best landscaping companies at Lake of the Ozarks. We can help you have the patio and the perfect outdoor oasis that you want. Contact us today for a consultation. Our friendly and professional staff will be glad to answer questions and help you make a plan and get started.
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![]() 7 Backyard Fire Pit Ideas – Landscaping Your Home Hideaway
December 24, 2020 No Comments
There are lots of backyard fire pit ideas landscaping lovers are building into their outdoor living spaces. Fire features are extremely popular among people who ![]() 5 Planning Tips to Improve Your Yard Landscaping at Lake of the Ozarks
December 15, 2020 No Comments
What would you like to have in your dream yard landscaping plan? Would you love to have a pool? Or maybe a waterfall and a ![]() Winter Hardscape Projects for Lake of the Ozarks Missouri Homes
December 3, 2020 No Comments
Even though it’s getting colder, that doesn’t mean that you can no longer make excellent use of the off-season here at the Lake to implement The post How to Lay Patio Pavers: Why Hire a Professional Landscape Company? appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/how-to-lay-patio-pavers-why-hire-a-professional-landscape-company/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/639770912366936064 There are lots of backyard fire pit ideas landscaping lovers are building into their outdoor living spaces. Fire features are extremely popular among people who love the outdoors. Imagine sitting in your own private retreat beneath the stars, sipping coffee or hot chocolate as you relax or visit with those you enjoy spending time with. 7 Fabulous Fire Pit Design Ideas to Dream AboutIf you want to add some backyard fire pit ideas into your landscape, you can have all kinds of wonderful times and create pleasant memories with your friends and family. Here are seven considerations to get your mind thinking and your heart dreaming! 1. Portable Smokeless Fire Pits
There are many custom backyard fire feature ideas that you can find today that have been uniquely designed by innovative designers. One of the newest is the Solo Stove smokeless fire pits. These are attractive portable units with technology that helps them burn wood efficiently while eliminating the smoke. 2. Fire TablesOther backyard ideas that are gaining popularity are portable fire pit tables. These beautiful pieces are a great way to easily incorporate backyard fire pit ideas to your existing patio, outdoor kitchen, or even in an outdoor living room space. Furthermore, you have the added flexibility of being able to purchase fire tables designed for either indoor or outdoor use. They create an added elegance to your backyard landscaping. 3. Fire Bowls and Fire Pots
Though some do not think of them as fire pits, their beauty and elegance certainly place them in the higher-end spectrum of fire features. Sometimes, they are also known as Fire Pots. You have likely seen one but perhaps didn’t know what it was called. Like a fire table, they wonderfully provide a desirable fire feature without the smoke by using either propane or natural gas as fuel. Their stylish designs offer many creative options and usages. And smaller versions can even be used indoors. 4. Brick Fire PitsBrick fire pit designs are very popular. They are usually rectangular or rounded. You can create your chosen brick fire pit designs in various colors. The possibilities are endless when it comes to fire pits made from bricks. Stone borders can be added around the outside or inside to give it an extra bit of panache. 5. Custom Build with Natural Stone![]() Another great way to incorporate artistic fire pit ideas in landscaping is to use natural stone or masonry blocks to create a custom fire pit. There are many different colors, shapes, and sizes of rocks or kiln-fired brick pavers that you can choose to design your fully custom fire pit. You can design and build your own amazing fire area on your patio, and as large as you want. Plus, you can even build seating around the outside or inside of the unit. Some people prefer to match their home’s style and their existing hardscapes and landscaping. And you can even design your entire patio or outdoor room around the unit. In addition, natural stone fire pits will add long-lasting appeal and value to your property. 6. Why settle for just one?Incorporating fire pit design ideas into your outdoor space is limited only by your imagination. If you’re looking for a grand way to develop and enhance your backyard landscape design for large gatherings, why not consider having a few outdoor fires burning? Take advantage of the evening hours with large gatherings of business associates, friends, and family where everyone can enjoy a cheerful fire. So, rather than having one very large fire pit, you can have seating and snacks around smaller fires spread out over a wider area. This type of multiple fire pit arrangement makes an impressive statement. With backyard design ideas like these, there’s no end to the fun you can have! 7. Plans and KitsIf you’re interested in building something that looks handsome and distinguished, there are a lot of beautiful designs available. There are a number of online sites where you can find free plans for backyard fire pits. There are also plans that come with a price tag. If you want a design that doesn’t require a lot of work on your part, you might want to check out pre-made designs and fire pit kits that can be easily shipped to your door. There are many choices available so you can choose between a wood-burning fire or a unit that uses propane or natural gas. Both types will produce nice heat. Gas fire pits are easier to clean up and don’t have to be vented outside. However, you must still build your pit using proper safety measures. The cost of the unit will depend on the size and type of unit you get. Fire Glass to Enhance Your ExperienceWhy not go one step further and enhance your entire fire pit experience with Fire Glass?
In addition to smooth fire glass pebbles or beads, there are naturally shaped fire glass crystals whose shape gives the appearance of small stones on fire. These spectacular alternatives offer colors across the spectrum ranging from dark and matte hues which are great for bringing sedate balance to the moody greens. Other popular combinations pair prismatic clear crystals with cobalt blues and purples to bring watery colors to life for enchanting contrasts to your flames. The sky’s the limit when it comes to elevating your experience with fire glass. Ask the Fire Pit Design and Build ExpertsWhile some of the concepts we’ve mentioned for fire pit ideas landscaping can be done fairly easily on your own, others can require the expertise of hardscape professionals. Heartland Landscape Group can help you build your dream. Contact us to speak to a friendly local design-build expert in landscape and hardscape construction at Lake of the Ozarks.
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![]() 7 Backyard Fire Pit Ideas – Landscaping Your Home Hideaway
December 24, 2020 No Comments
There are lots of backyard fire pit ideas landscaping lovers are building into their outdoor living spaces. Fire features are extremely popular among people who ![]() 5 Planning Tips to Improve Your Yard Landscaping at Lake of the Ozarks
December 15, 2020 No Comments
What would you like to have in your dream yard landscaping plan? Would you love to have a pool? Or maybe a waterfall and a ![]() Winter Hardscape Projects for Lake of the Ozarks Missouri Homes
December 3, 2020 No Comments
Even though it’s getting colder, that doesn’t mean that you can no longer make excellent use of the off-season here at the Lake to implement The post 7 Backyard Fire Pit Ideas – Landscaping Your Home Hideaway appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/7-backyard-fire-pit-ideas-landscaping-your-home-hideaway/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/638400620936691712 What would you like to have in your dream yard landscaping plan? Would you love to have a pool? Or maybe a waterfall and a small creek? Maybe it’s just a nice raised flower bed you desire. Whatever you want to have in your yard, simple landscaping strategies can get you there. Read on for the advice you need to create a yard that makes you smile! If you are not a master landscaper, consider hiring a company to help you. Many times do-it-yourself homeowners think that they will save money by not hiring a professional landscape company. However, the opposite might actually be true. An experienced landscaper can determine the best genus and species of plants and seeds to use. Likewise, they will know the exact chemicals, treatments, and care that your lawn and garden needs, resulting in less work and sometimes, a reduced cost. The same is true when it comes to landscape construction of hardscape features like paver patios and retaining walls. Even walkways can prove more challenging than some expect. Discover Your Growing ZoneSo, if you plan to landscape your yard, be sure to do a good amount of research on the best types of plants for your area. Some grasses grow better in warmer regions, while others can survive a tough winter with ease. Most grass seed bags will provide information on what growing zone or climate is best for their seed. The same can be true for various bushes and trees. Sketch Out a PlanMake sure you plan thoroughly while you’re thinking through your front yard landscaping ideas. It is a great idea to sketch out your landscaping design when it’s still a plan, so you can have a good mental idea of what it is going to look like. 1. Diagram Existing or New FeaturesMost people find it helpful to begin with diagraming the existing structures or natural features of your property. Decide whether you’ll want any hardscape landscaping or construction done, such as brick or stone walkways, patios, retaining walls, etc. 2. Plan Creatively for Greenery SoftscapeThen make notes of the trees, plants, flowers, shrubs, etc. that you plan on using to improve your yard landscape. It’s typically a good idea to start with larger plants like your ornamental trees and work down to smaller plants and flowers. Consider whether raised flower beds could be implemented, as well as accent features or areas like boulders or rock gardens. It’s popular to use plants and flowers with mulch to soften hard areas like the edges of patios, edging rocks along paths, and large outcropping stone. Some people like to soften the corners of their property in this way as well. This is the time to evaluate where you want to use straight lines vs. curvature in your landscape design. Another important consideration is whether you will want to install a sprinkler system. If so, this is the time to do it. If it’s not a budget problem for you, the benefits of a smart irrigation system can do wonders for your lawn and gardens. 3. Use Color Contrast in your LandscapingUse contrast to bring interest and pizzazz to your landscape design. For instance, try to plant items that are very different from each other in color, form and texture. Look at a color wheel, select the colors that are opposite each other and then pair plantings of those colors together. In doing so, this variety will give a much more colorful and interesting look to your flower beds and your overall landscape. 4. Think about multi-seasonal beauty.Homeowners are often disappointed when winter sets in and their home’s landscape looks dull and colorless. Why not create a multi-seasonal garden to make the most of your yard landscaping endeavors? You can research and choose many different plants and flowers that thrive in your region and bloom during different seasons. You might also consider planting unusual trees, evergreens, or shrubs with winter berries as a way to make your yard stand out. Consider what color your leaves and plants will be in the fall. What about splashes of color in the early spring? You can strategically plan for blossoming flowers throughout the entire growing season. This will provide a nice upgrade in your home’s overall appearance year-round. 5. Budget for your Landscape PlanTo help pay for your project, you could divide it into different stages. You will only have to pay for one stage at a time. If landscaping is a hobby for you, taking your time is important since creating the landscape is often more fun than maintaining it on a regular basis. Lawn and Landscape MaintenanceTrim your bushes and hedges regularly. If you trim a hedge or a bush when it is just starting to become overgrown, it will be a quick and easy process. If you wait until the bush is completely overgrown, sometimes these kinds of projects can take several hours. Regular maintenance is the easiest way to keep your landscaping looking great. More homeowners are opting for low-maintenance front yard landscaping, which makes a great deal of sense for many of our Lake of the Ozarks properties. Given the natural geographical features of our area we’re strong proponents of utilizing creative front yard landscaping ideas with rocks. ![]() Talk with a ProfessionalIt can be an excellent idea to talk to a pro before you start working on your landscape. You might not need a landscape designer or architect to draft your whole project, but often for a low price, a consultation that lasts about an hour can be well worth the money. And even more so if it prevents you from making costly mistakes later on. Everyone loves different things, from the sound of running water to watching squirrels play in the yard. That means that everyone also needs to draft different plans to meet their landscaping needs. However, all of the tips in this article can benefit anyone who wants to make a change. Keep these ideas in mind, as you make your dreamscape a reality!
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![]() Winter Hardscape Projects for Lake of the Ozarks Missouri Homes
December 3, 2020 No Comments
Even though it’s getting colder, that doesn’t mean that you can no longer make excellent use of the off-season here at the Lake to implement ![]() Landscaping Near Me: Why Lake of the Ozarks Landscaping is Difficult
November 11, 2020 No Comments
Most homeowners desire an attractive, well-designed yard and outdoor living space. However, Lake of the Ozarks landscaping usually comes with some challenges that will need ![]() How Landscaping Sunrise Beach MO Homes Will Improve Their Value
November 6, 2020 No Comments
Landscaping Sunrise Beach, MO lake homes will elevate the level of curb appeal which will increase your property value and draw in potential buyers when The post 5 Planning Tips to Improve Your Yard Landscaping at Lake of the Ozarks appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/5-planning-tips-to-improve-your-yard-landscaping-at-lake-of-the-ozarks/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/637675846346391552 Even though it’s getting colder, that doesn’t mean that you can no longer make excellent use of the off-season here at the Lake to implement some nice hardscape projects in your yard. Most hardscape projects can be worked on throughout much of the winter here in Missouri. Retaining walls, walkways, fire pits, stone stairs, and driveways (just to name a few) can all be done provided the ground doesn’t freeze deep down. In fact, working on these types of hardscape ideas and projects through the winter cold season allows you to make good use of your time so that you can entertain or enjoy your yard during the warm season next year. Landscape and HardscapeMany times when people think about landscaping they are thinking mostly about the various ground covers, plants, trees, and bushes. However, hardscapes are also a major part of your overall landscape design. In fact, a good comprehensive plan will include all the elements for both landscape and hardscape features. This is a great time to think through your entire landscaping plan. If you don’t have a plan, then that is your first step toward creating your ideal outdoor living space. Do you dream of having an outdoor kitchen adjacent to your patio? How about an outdoor living room with a fireplace? Winter is a great time to gather your hardscape ideas, make a plan, and get started. The Lay of the Land![]() Some of your hardscapes will be necessitated by the lay of the land. These may be large retaining walls, terraces, or driveways. We all need a driveway, however, there are many landscape materials that can be used for the driveway. Most people typically default to asphalt or concrete. However, you have more options such as pavers, flagstone, cobblestone, or outdoor porcelain paving tiles. Paving is a great choice for hardscaping your driveway. You can use concrete or stone pavers, which are more durable in all kinds of weather and preferable for easy maintenance. Repairs are easier, too. Another great option is flagstone for more color and texture diversity. Flagstone is a good way to capture a rustic look for your driveway, entryway, sidewalks, or patio. Firepits and Outdoor FireplacesA natural stone fire pit or a cozy outdoor fireplace can become the centerpiece of your backyard retreat, particularly if you enjoy hosting get-togethers with friends and family. These are both wonderful hardscaping projects to consider for the winter. You can design your own fire feature, and there are a nice variety of ideas, plans, and even fire pit kits and fireplace kits available on the market. So whether you prefer propane or classic wood-burning fire pits, classy fire tables, or a good old fireplace there’s nothing quite like the natural element of fire to help you relax and enjoy some downtime. ![]() Mind Your MaintenanceMaintaining hardscape features in the winter is relatively straightforward.
Don’t Forget the Smaller FeaturesAs you’re planning for your larger hardscape projects consider that other features like an arbor, a small pond or fountain, a stone bench, or even an artistic garden sculpture can provide that stylish accent or focal point in your yard, giving it that added touch of pizzazz. ![]() Schedule It NowRegardless of how well a hardscape project is planned and executed, it may still damage some of the surrounding softscape greenery. Unfortunately, your lawn, shrubs, trees, and plants can be damaged while hardscape installations are being done. However, during the winter season, plants become dormant so they are less vulnerable to damage and intrusion. Why not start planning and updating your landscape so you’ll be ready for spring? Give Heartland Landscape Group a call today at (573) 302-8866 or email us. We’re booking jobs now. Our friendly and professional staff will happily work with you to design the ideal hardscape and landscape for you.
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![]() Landscaping Near Me: Why Lake of the Ozarks Landscaping is Difficult
November 11, 2020 No Comments
Most homeowners desire an attractive, well-designed yard and outdoor living space. However, Lake of the Ozarks landscaping usually comes with some challenges that will need ![]() How Landscaping Sunrise Beach MO Homes Will Improve Their Value
November 6, 2020 No Comments
Landscaping Sunrise Beach, MO lake homes will elevate the level of curb appeal which will increase your property value and draw in potential buyers when ![]() A Closer Look at the Difference Between Hardscape and Landscape
October 16, 2020 No Comments
Your home and yard will look terrific with the right landscaping. But wait, it will look even better with the right hardscape added, too. So, The post Winter Hardscape Projects for Lake of the Ozarks Missouri Homes appeared first on Heartland Landscape Group, Inc.. from Heartland Landscape Group, Inc. https://heartlandlandscape.com/winter-hardscape-projects-for-lake-of-the-ozarks-missouri-homes/ from https://heartlandlandscape.tumblr.com/post/636532057599787008 Most homeowners desire an attractive, well-designed yard and outdoor living space. However, Lake of the Ozarks landscaping usually comes with some challenges that will need to be overcome. Our long sloping hills, excavating in rocky soil, the need to reclaim unusable space, and serious erosion problems are common in the Ozarks. These represent a few of the landscaping problems that play a major role in the design choices, the layout, and even the choice of shrubs and plants for your property. So, it’s good for new homeowners moving here to understand that though they have likely searched “landscaping near me,” things are often different in the Ozarks. Landscaping companies may have to use more strategic approaches. Landscape design issues such as those we’ll discuss often require creative solutions to achieve the goals you have for the look of your home or business property. Other questions we often encounter can range from how to block out noise from lake boating traffic or how to create windbreaks. Are you looking to create a kid-friendly yard or are you at a place in life where you just want a private oasis for you and a few adult friends? Once you have determined just what you want then it’s just a matter of how to make it happen. When people relocate here from Kansas City, St. Louis, or other major cities they are often confronted with landscaping “Lake of the Ozarks style.” Here are just a few of the reasons why Lake of the Ozarks landscaping can be challenging, and how local contractors overcome these challenges to give you a beautiful property you can be proud of. 1. Lake homes on hillsides require a strategic approach.Hillside landscaping tends to present the most challenging problems for most Lake of the Ozarks landscape companies, especially those who design and install hardscape features. Depending on whether we’re dealing with a natural undisturbed hillside or a slope that has been cut away and refilled, there are a few landscape design essentials you’ll want to bear in mind. And, not all landscape contractors or designers will be as well-versed as others in dealing with these situations. So you will want to be aware of your options so that you can make informed decisions. This can save you from opting for extraordinarily expensive choices that will have a profound effect on the stability and the desirability of your property. ![]() Protect your view while addressing the challenges.Why do homeowners choose homes on hills? It’s usually for the great view! A great deal of the value of the home depends on this. Therefore, any landscaping choices need to maximize the beauty of the view, or at least preserve it. When considering landscape or hardscape projects, think through how they will affect the view. Is your existing scene from the interior of your house panoramic or do you have a narrow view corridor? Determine how things will look from your favorite windows when implemented and do your best to preserve or improve on it. Try to make slopes easier to navigate.Many of our lake homes have had narrow winding staircases in the past. Consider employing terraced landscaping and retaining walls to provide more level spaces wherever possible in your slope or hillside. You can install nice stone stairs between levels, followed by larger level landing areas. By doing so, you can break up the climb as well as planting nice flower beds, building a fire pit, or a barbecue grilling area with a table and some outdoor seating. Some homeowners opt for a winding paver or natural stone pathway, similar to how a switchback works on a mountainside. This can afford some very nice softscape opportunities with flower beds, shrubs, butterfly garden spaces, or ornamental trees decorating the area. ![]() Keep accessibility and maintenance needs in mind.Hills and steep slopes can make lawn mowing difficult and even dangerous. Many people hate to give up lovely grassy lawns, which we totally understand. That being said, many of our lake residents are retirees, and safety can become an issue when trying to care for a steep lawn area. Some hills are simply easier and safer to maintain when covered with decorative gravel and low-maintenance xeriscaping with hearty indigenous plants. We’ll address runoff and erosion issues a little later on, but suffice it to say that solutions for these will often include the strategic use of retaining walls, terracing, gravel, and landscape rock. Also, you may want to consider planning for accessibility paths for trucks, gators, and trailers to be able to reach important access areas for property or equipment management. 2. Landscaping rocky ground: Excavating can be difficult in the Ozarks.There are many ways that landscape rocks can be incorporated into front yard or backyard landscape designs. Your choice of rock, from boulders to ledge stone to landscape gravels will determine how and where they can be implemented and whether they will be problematic. Though rocky ground will not keep you from building your design, it can significantly affect how much landscaping costs for your property. We can’t emphasize strongly enough that you should hire only professional landscape companies with the experience, skill, and proper equipment to effectively work in the rocky soil of the Ozarks. ![]() How to Manage ExcavationBuilding any hardscape features such as patios, walkways, foundations or flooring for outdoor kitchens and living spaces will require excavation. You need to be aware that some soil conditions can make the use of certain kinds of necessary landscaping equipment impossible. For instance, if you need an electrical or plumbing trench dug, large rocks or a rock shelf could damage the contractor’s equipment, or at best, render it ineffective. If a trencher can’t be used then the contractor will have to resort to hand digging or bringing in larger equipment. This can greatly impact the cost of your estimate. Even simple jobs like planting shrubs and ornamental trees or building a fence can prove to be quite difficult in our rocky ground. Experienced and reputable Lake of the Ozarks landscape companies will know how to inform customers during the bid process. Plus, the best landscapers will have the resources and equipment to handle whatever excavation needs may arise. How to Create a LawnIf you want good, healthy turf grass you’re going to need a surface and sub-surface that is free of stone and excess rocks. This way your grass can root well and you can mow it without hitting rocks that work their way up to the surface. Any good professional landscape contractor will know how to grade and clean the area before planting grass seed or laying sod. ![]() How to Handle Rock RemovalAfter an Ozark landscaping or hardscape project, you will have a pile of rock to remove. Many homeowners are caught by surprise when they’ve undertaken the landscaping of their property themselves, and there’s a harvest of rocks to manage. Moving large rocks and extra stones requires both a place to take them and a means of lifting and transporting them. If it’s a large project it will require a dump truck and dumping fees. Some of the rocks may be repurposed and used for future projects. If this is the case, be sure to make a plan for stockpiling them or adding them to your existing project. They can also be used for lining small slopes against erosion, providing underground drainage for other landscaping or hardscape needs, rip-rap ditch drainage, or even for other masonry projects. How to Plan for GradingIn order to make sure your land drains correctly and supports your hardscapes, grading rocky ground may be required. Rocky areas like the Ozarks with such large hidden stones have been known to damage Bobcat blades and even graders. This means that some of your grading may not be easily accomplished. The cost of repairs, parts, and labor may fall to you, as well as delaying the timeline of your landscape work. A landscaping contractor can encounter a wide range of rock sizes when grading your property. They must be able to provide heavy enough equipment to handle the heaviest and largest stones they expect to encounter. If they’re forced to rent a larger dozer or subcontract the grading out, your costs will undoubtedly go up. So, it cannot be overstated that there is wisdom in researching and hiring a landscape company with proven experience at managing this kind of work. It may even be worthwhile to enlist the services of an engineering contractor for your improvements if you already know that excavating or grading rocky ground is going to be an issue. A simple online search of terms like “landscaping near me” or “landscape companies near me” is a good place to begin. Then be sure to find and read Google reviews on the companies that are popular in those searches. A phone call to interview them would be in order, as well.
How to account for Hidden CostsThough they try to bid a project as accurately as possible, it’s fairly common that your contractor will encounter unforeseen obstacles that will impact the final price of the bid. Imagine the problem of discovering that there are underground boulders or even a large underground rock shelf disrupting the excavation. It will cost the company more than expected if they must expend extra service hours or if they encounter unexpected charges for hauling, subcontracting, or equipment rental or usage. At the end of the job, you could be surprised as these costs add up. Here are some helpful ways to help you plan for this:
3. Rapid water runoff and erosion are problematic.![]() In the Ozarks, there is always a high potential for erosion. Consequently, how you treat your hills and slopes is very important. As rain falls on bare soil or areas of scant vegetation, the dirt can be displaced. As the runoff continues downhill, more soil gets dislodged and picked up in the flow. This process is continued throughout a rainstorm and gets multiplied by the number of rains over time. It becomes easy to understand how you can lose so much ground to unabated erosion. Sometimes the moisture seeps down into the ground and finds no adequate means of drainage. In a worst-case scenario, this underground moisture can eventually destabilize portions of the ground, causing larger areas to break loose and slide down the hill. This is often seen along highways where hills have been cut away with large areas of open ground exposed. Where there is no rip rap to help hold the soil in place you will see large areas of land give way to slow erosion as well as sudden slides. There are different strategies that can be applied to each slope as needed or desired. Decorative GravelMany are turning to decorative landscape gravel as a viable and sustainable substitute for a lawn. The use of gravel provides solutions for many problems in landscaping. It’s low maintenance, helps hold dirt in place, acts much like a mulch where desired, and provides a clean and attractive look with a variety of shapes and colors. At the lake it is often used on steep hills that run all the way down to the water, preserving precious soil against erosion. Plantings, walkways, terraced patios, flower beds, and stone landscape steps all help make these properties extremely attractive and safe. Before deciding whether using gravel in your landscape to help with erosion is the best choice for you, consult with your Ozarks landscape professional. Retaining WallsWith steep changes in elevation, retaining walls are often used to hold soil in place. By building retaining walls up the hillside you can create a terraced yard where there was once a steep slope, reclaiming nice areas of level usable ground. As an aesthetic value, your retaining walls can be designed as planting beds to provide accents and beauty in addition to their functional purpose. Water can’t pass through most retaining walls so engineering effective drainage is extremely important. If efficient drainage behind the wall isn’t present, hydrostatic pressure will build until it damages the structure. Are there cracks or bulges appearing in your retaining wall? It can be a warning sign that there isn’t proper drainage. Check with your landscaping contractor to make sure they understand the need for proper drainage measures behind the wall. One would expect this to be common knowledge and practice. But, unfortunately, these methods are either unlearned, overlooked, or perhaps even skimped on by unscrupulous contractors. Terraced LandscapingAs mentioned above, homeowners can ask their hardscape contractors about how to terrace a hillside to reclaim more usable space. It always adds value to your property to create more square footage for outdoor living spaces, landscaping, or gardening. ![]() PlantsPlants are one of nature’s own best defenders of soil. Tree and plant foliage act as umbrellas over the ground to deflect rain from landing directly on the soil. Raindrops are diverted to filter more gently down to the soil with less energy. Below the ground, the roots of our beloved plants help hold soil in place. For the most effective erosion-stoppers, choose plant species with fine roots that tend to spread out of a large area. These can be very helpful to stabilize the soil in your sloped areas. Where possible, one should choose a diverse variety of plants. Indigenous plants are best, but you can mix other decorative plants into your planting design. This way, if one of your species is endangered by disease, animals, or insects you will have others that survive to hold your soil in place.
Your Lake of the Ozarks landscape contractor will be well-acquainted with our local soils and which plants will create a healthy safeguard and decor for your slope. Dry Creek BedsDry creek beds are also referred to as dry stream beds. These natural stone features aren’t just attractive, but they also provide effective management for drainage problems and help reduce erosion from rainwater runoff. Dry creek beds typically follow natural or man-made gullies and are lined with colorful or decorative stone. Various sizes of cobbles, Mexican beach pebbles, and other rounded or smooth stones and river rock are best for this project. To add further beauty, consider edging the bed with large stones, small boulders, pavers, or bricks. Some homeowners opt for edging the bed with plants for a more natural aesthetic. If the runoff flows rapidly through your dry stream bed you may want to consider using mortar to hold the rock in place. ![]() Rip RapRiprap is a natural stone solution to slow water velocity and reduce or prevent erosion. It is composed of various kinds and sizes of rock and is commonly used on hillsides and steep slopes, along shorelines, and even for lining ditches or other drainage ways. The size of rocks used for riprap can range from 4” to more than 2’. The pitch of the slope and speed of the runoff will determine the size of the rock required to protect against erosion. The main disadvantage is that riprap isn’t easy for people or animals to walk across. The best solution is to fill in difficult spaces with gravel, smaller rocks, or dirt. 4. About SustainabilityHow do I know if a slope is too steep and needs to be terraced? 2:1 Slope RatioThis is a vertical drop of one foot per two horizontal feet. At this pitch water runs off quickly, often before it can seep into plants’ root zone. It is viewed as the most extreme slope where plants may still grow, although they still often fail. 3:1 Slope RatioA 3:1 slope ratio is milder, but you will still need plant species that are drought tolerant. At this pitch plant roots will get water and they can survive and do well. 3:1 is the maximal pitch to consider a grass lawn. Less than 3:1 Slope RatioThe more highly favored slope ratio is less than 3:1. More types of plants can thrive at this pitch since there will be greater availability of water at the root level. ![]() Choose The RIght Plants for Your SlopeDifferent states will have their own indigenous species of groundcover plants, creeping shrubs, and trees that are best for their microclimates. Missouri is no different, and our state, like many others, can even vary from region to region. For the best local plant options, the Missouri Botanical Garden website provides info on what native plants, shrubs, and trees are recommended. For more information, you can contact the Missouri University Agricultural Extension office. In ConclusionWe hope you will find this information guide useful to learn about and consider the challenges you may face in your Lake of the Ozarks landscaping project. Call now to speak with a friendly, qualified representative for one of the best landscape companies at the Lake, Heartland Landscape Group.
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