We have hammered home the concept of “Right Tree, Right Place,” but what if that tree is already in the right place? Now there are new structures or parking areas erected, only to make it not such the right place. Designing around established trees is not only admirable, but also a sustainable practice, especially helping to achieve cities tree canopy goals. However, often times trees are an afterthought and minimal care and protection is given to these beauties during construction. Unfortunately, additional expenses ensue after the project has been completed because of tree failures. Here are a few steps to make sure your tree is protected during a construction project

Mid-summer is the best time of year to take a close look at your Bermudagrass health. Not only is it important to look at the color of turf and to make sure you are watering efficiently, but also look at what is going on at the ground level. Thatch, which is composed of dead and living roots, stems and leaves, can thicken overtime, creating a ‘poufy’ lawn. Thatch that is over ½” can impact the health of the lawn, making it more prone to stress during mowing and extreme temperatures, also making it more prone to pests and disease. Here are tips on how to manage thatch and promote a healthy and vigorously growing summer lawn.

At one time or another, we have all been awakened by a leaf blower in the neighborhood, and while they are an essential tool in maintaining a tidy yard, the leaf blower, or should we say the operator of the left blower can be at times an annoyance. But with a little awareness and courtesy, cleaning one’s property doesn’t have to be a disturbance to the public.

Want to learn a thing or two about growing grass that might be helpful to you? Let’s start with some watering wisdom for your turf. Always water established turf in the early morning to prevent excessive evaporation. Next, if footprints stay in your grass for more than 5 minutes, it's time turn on the sprinklers. A bluish gray tint also indicates stress and lack of water. If the dry area is not getting the same amount of water as the green area, adjust the sprinkler heads accordingly.

We have been receiving calls lately about the incurable disease plaguing oleanders around the state: Oleander Leaf Scorch. Arriving to our state a number of years ago, the disease first surfaced in the Central Phoenix area and has now spread to Paradise Valley, Scottsdale and to other areas around Maricopa County. Here is more information on this fatal plant disease: