Landscaping Design on the Main Line

September 24, 2015
by aardweglandscaping
Comments Off on Frost Protection Tips for Main Line Residential Landscaping

Frost Protection Tips for Main Line Residential Landscaping

As the daytime temperatures start to move back into that delightful range which encourages renewed interest in outdoor activities, one must also recognize the challenges cool nighttime air poses for annuals and tender perennials. If you aren’t quite ready to be done with the gardening season, consider a few Main Line residential landscaping tips to implement in your yard and garden to prevent frost damage.

Breathable row covers – Whether you use a professional landscape grade cover or merely an old sheet pulled from your linen closet, this simple technique is quite effective in protecting plants from a frost. If possible, when covering your plants, ensure that the fabric is secured to the ground. This traps valuable heat from the earth and provides a moderately-insulated “cocoon” for your gardening treasures.
Water sprinklers – For the occasional times when night temps dip below freezing, turning on sprinklers before dawn allows the water to melt away the frost and cover the leaves with a thin layer of ice, preventing the “burn” that frost can put on plants once the sunshine reaches them. This is a popular method employed by nurseries to protect their tender nursery stock and is quite effective also in Main Line residential landscaping scenarios as well. The real negative is getting out of bed before dawn to give your plants a morning shower!
Smoke and wind – Though perhaps not as practicable for the average homeowner, yet some might have the resources to utilize this trick. Wind and smoke both make it harder for frost to form on plants. Thus many nurseries have fans and smudge pots that work throughout cold nights to protect plants in areas to large to use row covers.

Plant-care.com advises that you know the terrain of your garden. “Cold air is heaver or denser than warm and hot air, be aware low lying areas of the garden may get colder by several degrees than areas in higher spots. Plant the more tender plant varieties on higher ground or on slopes where cold air will not settle. You can precondition your plants and landscape to get them ready to battle the winter temperatures by stopping fertilizing in early September.”

Just because the nights are getting cooler doesn’t meant the colorful growing season has to be brought to a halt. Enlist the help of these Main Line residential landscaping tips. For more smart ideas, don’t hesitate to call Aardweg Landscaping for professional and efficient ways to keep the frost at bay and eke out every last drop of gorgeous display before winter sets in!

In 2015 Aardweg Landscaping of Newtown Square, PA received both the “Best Of Houzz” 2015 award for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, and the exclusive “Recommended” badge for top rated professionals on Houzz.

Schedule a complimentary on-site consultation with Aardweg Landscaping by calling 610-355-0703, or send an email using the website contact form.

September 21, 2015
by aardweglandscaping
Comments Off on Formal Landscaping Design on Philadelphia’s Main Line

Formal Landscaping Design on Philadelphia’s Main Line

There’s no doubt about it – formal garden designs simply breathe serenity, order, harmony, predictability. In our fast-paced world, such a space is indeed a rare treat and opportunity for the harrowed mind to rest and rejuvenate!

How does one achieve this structured and peaceful atmosphere? Why not start by checking out some formal landscaping designs on Philadelphia’s Main Line? Let Aardweg Landscaping’s videos on YouTube delight and inspire you, as you see what tends to characterize a formal garden in regards to structure and plant selection.

Simple geometric design – Formal gardens are built around strong, clean lines that bring bold definition to your garden space.
Classic elements – Even small touches of elegance, perhaps in the form of stone planters, simple urns or artistic statues, can offer a lot of drama to your ultimate landscaping goals. They bring a distinct feeling of bygone centuries and traditional European high society.
Repetition in design – Far from being monotonous, repetition in plant shapes and colors brings a sense of cohesion and balance to your garden area. Many of the Aardweg Landscaping videos on YouTube vividly illustrate the effectiveness of this technique in their collection of formal landscaping designs on Philadelphia’s Main Line, as well as the use of mirrored and symmetrical plantings which increase the feeling of soothing, open space.
Strong structure – Incorporating features that provide bold, year-long appeal is greatly essential to the integrity of the formal design, even in the “off season.”
Simplicity of choice – While there are literally so many plants to choose from, limiting yourself to a few plants and planting them en masse will create a more dramatic impact. White is a classically formal color and also brings brightness to shady spaces.
Focal points – Utilize your straight lines to showcase a special feature designed to draw people down your beautifully landscaped pathways.

Start planning your garden’s transformation by perusing the Aardweg portfolio of formal landscaping design on Philadelphia’s Main Line and Aardweg Landscaping’s YouTube videos. The possibilities will take your breath away!

Serving Main Line Philadelphia area clients for over 35-years, full-service landscape design company Aardweg Landscaping of Newtown Square, PA received in 2015 both the “Best Of Houzz” 2015 award for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, and the exclusive “Recommended” badge for top rated pros on Houzz.

To schedule a complimentary on-site consultation, call Aardweg Landscaping at 610-355-0703, or send an email using the website contact form.

September 7, 2015
by aardweglandscaping
Comments Off on Stormwater Control Ideas for Residential Landscaping

Stormwater Control Ideas for Residential Landscaping

Do you dread the onset of rain because of the soggy and destructive wreck it invariably makes in your metro Philadelphia lawn and garden? If so, you may want to look into adding stormwater control systems in your landscaping. There are a surprising number of resourceful and attractive landscape design methods to handle the problem of stormwater. Not only can excess residential stormwater be removed via a system of drains and runoffs, there has recently been a growing desire for alternative options that offer a more natural, ecologically friendly water disposal method.

What are some innovative ideas that could be implemented in your yard for stormwater control for landscaping?

Rain gardens – This is becoming quite popular among homeowners and conservationists alike. This unique approach involves the planting of native species known for their hardiness and adaptability to the specific climatic conditions. Indigenous plants from the Philadelphia or eastern Pennsylvania area tend to grow deep, complex root systems that not only absorb more water but penetrate slow-draining soils to create conduits through which water can drain more quickly. The plants are beautiful to look at, as well.
French drain system – A French drain is a trench filled with gravel or rock (with or without) a perforated pipe that redirects surface water and groundwater away from a low or wet area. This drain system is often used to channel water away from a building foundation, to move the water to where it can be utilized more efficiently, or to move water out of an area where it tends to collect.
Repair for the existing landscape – Many times, stormwater collection is due to sink holes, tree removal or other unseen problems beneath the turf. A professional landscaper can help assess why a location is not draining properly and suggest corrective measures.

Typical Cross-section of a French Drain

Alternatively, the American Institute of Building Design recommends other proactive eco-friendly options to deal with stormwater resulting from steady rain. Some of the best techniques to mitigate damaging soil erosion and manage stormwater runoff are swales to redirect water drainage; heavier mulch such as hardwood mulches; rain spout diversion; and the use of underground drains along driveways or permeable driveway surfacing. Commenting in summary, AIBD.org says, “Designing with storm-water in mind will keep your [clients’] wallet, yard, and environment a little greener in the long run. And take some worries out of rainy days.”

If you are struggling with the issue of torrential water cutting through your lawn during rainy seasons, don’t hesitate. Call Aardweg Landscaping today for a proven and beautiful stormwater control solution for your landscaping challenges – and soon, all that mess will be a thing of the past.

In business for over 35-years, full-service landscape design, installation and maintenance company Aardweg Landscaping received a 2015 Award for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz.

Are you interested in learning more about stormwater control for your Main Line or Philadelphia home? Aardweg Landscaping is pleased to provide on-site consultations at homes in communities throughout the metro Philadelphia area. To schedule a consultation, call Aardweg Landscaping at 610-355-0703, or send an email using the website contact form.

August 31, 2015
by aardweglandscaping
Comments Off on Cool Fall Landscaping Tips for Your Main Line Garden

Cool Fall Landscaping Tips for Your Main Line Garden

As the outdoor temperatures start to cool and the energies turn again with renewed interest to tidying up your lawn and garden areas, it can be helpful to make your to-do list with the aid of some handy fall landscaping tips for your Main Line garden.

Houselogic.com says, “Fall landscaping chores are your last chance to prepare your property for winter, and to protect that curb appeal you’ve worked so hard to create. So pull on some gloves, grab your tools, and get ready to mulch, prune, and plant before snow and frozen ground turn the lights out on your landscaping.”

Put out some fresh mulch – autumn is a great time of year to do mulching in your lawn and garden, and its benefits are much more than aesthetic. A layer of several inches of mulch helps protect roots from freezing and holds in valuable moisture during cold and dry winter weather.
Spruce up with pruning – While fall is not the right time of year for serious pruning, your landscape appearance can improve considerably with a light trimming of spent blooms on shrubs and grasses, removing dead annuals and pruning tea roses back after the first frost.
Wrap up fragile plants – winter takes a toll on delicate trees, shrubs and plants, so a valuable fall landscaping tip for your Main Line garden involves protecting these garden treasures from potential damage from severely cold weather.
Plant new trees and shrubs – Autumn is a great time of year to plant saplings and shrubs, since the cooler temperatures and typically moister conditions put less stress on the young plants, enabling them to adapt more quickly to their new environment. And late season sales make this a cost-efficient way to incorporate more value and interest into your landscape!

So make use of these and many other landscaping tips for your Main Line garden, and use the cooler months to work toward the immediate and future well-being of your flourishing landscape!

Serving Main Line Philadelphia area clients for over 35-years, full-service landscape design company Aardweg Landscaping of Newtown Square, PA received a “Best Of Houzz” 2015 award for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. Are you interested in learning more about how to improve or enhance your residential landscape design?

To schedule a complimentary on-site consultation, call Aardweg Landscaping at 610-355-0703, or send an email using the website Contact form.

August 29, 2015
by aardweglandscaping
Comments Off on Best Plant Ideas for Philadelphia Container Gardens

Best Plant Ideas for Philadelphia Container Gardens

Who doesn’t appreciate a splash of color, however small, to brighten up the landscape? Of course, everyone does! And even those with very limited space can enjoy a vibrant punch of color with these super-easy and ultra-charming plant ideas for Philadelphia container gardens.

Astilbe – Known for its lovely foliage and billowing plumes of flowers, this old fashioned favorite comes in rich shades of pink, red, white and lavender. It flowers in the spring, and the fern-like leaves remain a great accent to other plants throughout the growing season.
Miscanthus – Ornamental grasses can set a delicately beautiful backdrop for other plants, while providing varieties that come in container friendly sizes.
Trillium – Enchanting star-like flowers in shades of white, yellow and mauve, this shade lover also has lovely leaves for added interest. Since trillium usually goes dormant in mid season, try planting it near another perennials or ground cover which will soften the bare spot effects of dormancy.
Heuchera – Among other stunning plant ideas for Philadelphia container gardens, heuchera definitely deserves recognition. Very attractive, grown primarily for the incredibly brilliant foliage, coral bells also delight with spikes of red, pink and white flowers in late spring and early summer.
Bleeding heart – Exquisite in every respect, this quaint choice regales shady spots with arching stems of gorgeous pink or white heart-shaped flowers. Smaller cultivars with ferny foliage are great additions to container plantings.

HGTVGardens.com touts Autumn fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) as a plant that adds both texture and color in the winter. Known for its coppery new foliage, it turns a glossy, deep green. The article states, “In colder areas, autumn fern is semi-evergreen. By the end of winter, as with many evergreen perennials, it benefits from pruning. However, be careful about going crazy with cutting back — if you remove too much, it’ll lose some vigor.”

There are so many breathtaking plant ideas for Philadelphia container gardens. Try a mix of old and new as you formulate your own signature landscape design, and then enjoy the explosion of color which is destined to follow!

Aardweg Landscaping of Newtown Square, PA was recognized early in 2015 with a “Best Of Houzz” 2015 Award for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz. In business for over 35-years, full-service landscape design company Aardweg Landscaping is pleased to provide on-site consultations at homes in communities throughout the metro Philadelphia, southeastern New Jersey, and northern Delaware areas.

Satisfied customers Darian and Susan V. of Wynnewood, PA shared the following testimonial on behalf of Aardweg Landscaping: “We finished our kitchen and addition and realized that the view we looked into was awful! Aardweg Landscaping had done our neighbors place and we loved it. We are delighted with our yard now and highly recommend Steve and his crew.”

Are you interested in learning more about ideas for container gardens for this fall? To schedule a complimentary consultation, call Aardweg Landscaping at 610-355-0703, or send an email using the website contact form.

August 25, 2015
by aardweglandscaping
Comments Off on Eastern Pennsylvania Birds and Butterflies Love These Plants

Eastern Pennsylvania Birds and Butterflies Love These Plants

A brilliant garden is truly a delight to all the senses. But what happens when you realize that the lovely plants are themselves simply the beginning of your total home garden experience — when it dawns on you that the inclusion of specific plants and flowers in a backyard landscape design for wildlife can bring in a host of vibrantly-hued butterflies and birds to your yard?

It is then that the fun truly begins! The Backyard Wildlife Habitat site says, “Landscaping to attract wildlife is gardening at its very best. Choosing plants native to the geographic area where you live almost always guarantees success. Natives require less care and general maintenance, leaving more time for the garden to be enjoyed. Wildlife benefits from the food, shelter, and nesting places that result from this type of gardening.”

Have you pondered the idea of a landscape design that encourages and protects the life cycle of butterflies and other beneficial pollinating insects? A wide range of plants and shrubs offers glorious, season-long visual interest through their colorful flowers, berries and foliage while at the same time providing the favorite foods for these much-beloved winged creatures. Some of these plants include:

Viburnum
Highbush blueberry
Rhododendron
Sumac
Pussy willow
Wild rose
Flowering dogwood

If your backyard landscape design for wildlife includes luring colorful and music-making birds into your garden, then consider these nectar-producing charmers:

Tulip tree
Eastern redbud
American elderberry
Purple coneflower
Beautyberry
Sunflowers
Honeysuckle

Natural Landscape by Newtown Square Landscape Architects & Landscape Designers Aardweg Landscaping

Why settle for a yard that is simply beautiful, when it can also be teeming with life and vitality in the form of songbirds, hummingbirds, butterflies, caterpillars and valuable pollinating insects? Revel in the pulse of life throbbing throughout your own backyard landscape design with bird and butterfly gardens and discover the hours upon hours of enjoyment to be had in its ever-changing palette of color in motion!

For ideas on how to accomplish this in your yard, check out the Valley Forge Audubon program – the resources there are sure to inspire you!

Serving Main Line Philadelphia area clients for over 35-years, full-service landscape design company Aardweg Landscaping of Newtown Square, PA received a “Best Of Houzz” 2015 award for Customer Satisfaction by Houzz, the leading platform for home remodeling and design. Are you interested in learning more about designing a garden to attract butterflies and birds?

To schedule a complimentary on-site consultation, call Aardweg Landscaping at 610-355-0703, or send an email using the website Contact form.