Landscape Gardening Archives - Oasis Palms & Landscaping

17 Oct

Landscape Recover After Irma

Hurricane Irma, one of the most powerful Atlantic hurricanes in history, struck in September 2017. Its catastrophic path cut across the Caribbean and southeastern United States, causing massive devastation. The aftermath of Hurricane Irma saw landscapes stripped of their natural beauty. Trees were uprooted or left battered and their branches shattered. Foliage was stripped bare, gardens and parks were drowned by floods, and soil erosion wreaked havoc on the land. Oasis Palms & Landscaping helped many residents in the city to recover the damaged landscape.

Landscape Recovery after a Storm

Recovering a landscape from the aftermath of storm Irma is a challenge. Our brand excels in such landscape recovery services. We can restore it back to its original condition.

1. Expert Assessment

Our skilled arborists will first inspect each tree in your landscape. They evaluate the overall health and structural stability of the trees. We look for signs of damage, disease, or other issues caused by the storm. The objective is to make a well-informed decision regarding the rehabilitation potential of each tree. Trees that pose safety hazards due to storm damage are identified for removal to ensure the safety of your property.

2. Targeted Pruning and Trimming

For trees that can be salvaged, our experienced team performs precise and careful pruning and trimming. This involves the strategic removal of damaged, weak, or hazardous branches. By eliminating these vulnerable sections, we stimulate the tree’s natural regrowth and enhance its structural integrity. This ensures the overall well-being of the tree.

3. Soil Restoration

Due to the storm, your landscape’s soil may have experienced damage. We conduct vital soil testing by collecting samples to assess nutrient levels and identify any imbalances that could impede the recovery of plants and trees. If any problems are found, we rectify them. The aim is to ensure that the soil is in optimal condition to support new growth.

4. Selection of Native Species

When it is time for replanting, we prioritize native plants and trees. These species are naturally adapted to the local environment. Therefore, they are inherently resilient to climatic conditions and more likely to thrive. Our experts carefully select the appropriate native species and plant them in your landscape. However, we take your interests into account as well and choose options that align with your taste.

5. Watering

Watering is necessary for nurturing the newly planted vegetation during the recovery process. It is essential to provide these plants with the right amount of moisture to support their optimal growth. Our team creates customized watering schedules that cater to the specific needs of each plant in your landscape. This ensures that your greenery receives adequate hydration without the risks of overwatering or underwatering.

6. Mulching for Soil Health

As part of the recovery process, we apply a protective layer of mulch around plants and trees. This layer of mulch serves multiple vital purposes. It plays a significant role in retaining soil moisture and ensures that the ground stays adequately hydrated. Also, it prevents drastic fluctuations that can stress your plants and trees. Furthermore, this mulch layer acts as a barrier against weed growth. In sum, this protective mulch layer significantly aids in the recovery of your landscape.

7. Pest and Disease Management

To safeguard your plants and trees during their recovery, we implement preventive strategies against common pests and diseases. Otherwise, they can hinder your plant and tree growth. One of the most important things is regular inspections. It helps us to detect any signs of infestations or diseases early. Therefore, we can take care of them before they spread. If necessary, we apply environmentally friendly solutions for pest and disease management to ensure the health and vitality of your recovering greenery.

8. Ongoing Monitoring and Care

Recovery is not a one-time process but an ongoing one. This is why we remain vigilant at all times. Our dedicated team continually monitors the progress of your landscape’s recovery. It helps to make any necessary adjustments to our care plan if required. Also, we provide additional support and care to ensure the best possible outcome for your recovering plants and trees.

9. Seasonal Considerations

We consider the unique needs of your landscape during different seasons. Our approach to care adapts to changing environmental conditions. For instance, we might adjust our watering schedule or mulching approach to account for variations in temperature, rainfall, and the changing requirements of your plants and trees as they continue to recover and thrive.

10. Sturdy Structural Support

In cases where trees have suffered substantial storm damage, our team employs advanced bracing and cabling techniques. These methods involve securing the tree’s weaker or damaged branches and trunks to provide essential structural support. By doing so, we not only stabilize the tree but also prevent further damage and promote the healthy recovery of its structure. These support measures are crucial for the tree’s overall well-being.

The aftermath of a storm like Hurricane Irma is a monumental challenge. Oasis Palms & Landscaping provide expertise, dedication, and a deep understanding of natural landscapes and can restore them to their former glory. Choosing us for landscape recovery is the right choice. We offer a comprehensive approach, from initial assessment to sustainable practices, ensuring that your landscape not only recovers but also thrives.

21 Aug

Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas By Experts

Landscaping Ideas

When thinking about creating a beautiful outdoor space, you might imagine lush green plants and colorful flowers. It will elevate the beauty of your home design. However, taking care of a complex garden can sometimes feel overwhelming. You will have to put in a lot of effort to ensure your garden appears maintained and organized. Most people do not have the time to maintain the lush green garden.

If you can be a little smart with your garden plan, maintaining your garden will not be very challenging. It can be easily done by following a few simple tips. In this guide, we will explore some expert-recommended low-maintenance landscaping ideas that will make your yard look great.

Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas By Experts

1. Native Plants and Water-Saving Landscaping:

Choose plants that are used to the weather in your area. These plants are like local experts and they do not need a lot of water or care. Therefore, you will not have to worry about the plants dying due to unfavorable weather conditions. You can also try a special way of doing your yard called landscaping. It will help to save water. Also, you will not have to worry about watering your plants time and again. When you use these plants and methods, your yard will look nice without needing too much effort.

2. Magic Mulch:

Mulch is like a superhero for your plants. When you put it around plants, it keeps the dirt wet and you do not have to water them all the time. Also, mulch is like a barrier that stops those pesky weeds from growing. This means you will not have to spend time pulling them out and cleaning your yard repeatedly. Moreover, mulch helps the dirt stay at a favorable temperature. With this low-maintenance landscaping idea, you can ensure that your plants stay healthy. Adding it to soil will help to make your yard look neat and tidy as well.

3. Smart Plant Choices:

This is a popular low-maintenance landscaping idea. When you are picking plants, be clever about it. Choose plants that do not get sick easily. Also, it is prudent to choose plants that do not have a high maintenance requirement if you do not have the time to keep up with it. Stay away from plants that need a lot of cutting or special care. If you choose strong plants that are habituated to the weather of the area you live in, you will not have to spend too much time taking care of them.

4. Automatic Watering:

Imagine if your plants could water themselves – that would be cool, right? Well, there are special systems that can do just that. These systems send water straight to the roots, so plants do not get thirsty. You can set them up to water at certain times and pay attention to other things. With these systems, your plants will stay happy and wet without you having to do all the work.

5. Hard Stuff in Your Yard:

Think about adding things like paths, stones, and gravel to your yard. These things do not need much care and make your yard look more appealing. Make sure you plan the entire setup and do not place them randomly in different places. By putting them in the right places, you will have a mix of soft plants and hard things. The contrast will add to the beauty of the space. Also, adding them will result in less work compared to a regular grassy yard.

6. Plants in Groups:

Grouping the right pants together will help to reduce maintenance work in your yard. Carefully select the plants that need the same amount of water and place them together. This way, you can water them all at once and save more time. Making these plant groups will make your yard look interesting as well.

7. Different Kind of Lawns:

You do not always need regular grass for a beautiful yard. There are other low-maintenance landscaping ideas that you can explore. For example, you can consider fake grass or plants for your yard. Compared to real grass and plants, they require very little maintenance. Also, they appear very realistic as well. It is hard to tell them apart from a distance. Also, you will have the option of choosing any plant you want without worry about maintenance.

8. Easy Perennial Plants:

Think about getting plants that come back every year without needing much help. These plants are strong and do not need a lot of attention. They will keep growing and add more greenery to your yard. The best part is you do not have to keep planting new ones to maintain the greenery.

9. Pruning the Smart Way:

Never leave the plants untouched for a long time. They will grow and start appearing unorganized. Cutting plants is important, but do it the smart way. Only cut what really needs it. Also, do not choose plants that always need cutting. It is a crucial low-maintenance landscaping idea. This keeps your yard pretty and saves you time.

10. Get Expert Advice:

When you are not sure what to do, ask an expert for help. They know a lot about plants and can help you choose the right ones. With their help, you can make a plan that works for you and where you live. Oasis Palms & Landscaping is one of the most renowned companies you can hire. We have years of experience in maintaining plants and yards. Our experts can help you create a plan and execute it to bring your dream yard to life. To reach our experts, call us at 813-370-1135. With our low-maintenance landscaping ideas, your yard will look great without needing too much work.

With these expert low-maintenance landscaping ideas, you can create an inviting and picturesque yard that aligns with your lifestyle. If you ever face any challenge, you can always get in touch with our experts. We will provide you with services at a very reasonable rate.

10 Mar

Know Your Palm Trees. What Are Specimen Palms or What Palms Will Thrive in the Tampa Bay Area?

Are you dreaming of a tropical oasis right in your central Florida backyard? Look no further than Oasis Palms & Landscaping! We specialize in creating stunning outdoor spaces that transport you to a lush, exotic paradise. And what better way to achieve that look than by incorporating palm trees into your landscaping? But not all palm trees are created equal, and choosing the right ones for your landscaping idea can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best palm trees for your specific landscaping ideas.

Best Palm Trees For Your Landscaping Ideas

Sago Palm

Sago palm is one of the most popular palm trees for Florida landscaping. It has unique spiky leaves and a textured trunk that adds a touch of exotic elegance to any outdoor space. The Sago palm is slow-growing, making it easy to maintain and won’t overpower your yard. This tree is drought-tolerant, which makes it an ideal option for hot, dry Florida summers.

Additionally, the Sago palm requires minimal pruning and care. This makes it perfect for busy homeowners. It is a versatile tree that can thrive in various soil types and lighting conditions, making it an excellent choice for any landscaping ideas.

Canary Island Date Palm

The Canary Island Date palm is a stunning palm tree that can make a statement in any outdoor space. This towering palm tree is one of the most recognizable and iconic palm species, with its towering height and striking silhouette. It has a unique trunk covered in a diamond-shaped pattern that adds to its overall visual appeal. The Canary Island Date palm is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a wide range of lighting conditions, from full sun to partial shade. With proper care and maintenance, this palm tree can last for decades. Therefore, it is a wise investment for homeowners who want to create a lasting impact in their outdoor spaces.

Foxtail Palm

The Foxtail palm is another popular choice for Florida landscaping ideas. It has a unique frond structure that resembles a fox’s tail, giving it a playful and whimsical appearance. This palm tree is relatively easy to maintain, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance option. The Foxtail palm is drought-tolerant and can thrive in full sun or partial shade. It can also tolerate a wide range of soil types, making it a versatile option for various landscape ideas. With its unique appearance and easy-care nature, the Foxtail palm is an excellent choice for homeowners who want to create a visually appealing outdoor space without spending too much time on maintenance.

Bismarck Palm

The Bismarck palm is a beautiful and unique option for Florida landscaping. It is known for its large, fan-shaped leaves that can reach up to ten feet long, creating a dramatic visual impact in any outdoor space. This palm tree is drought-tolerant and can survive in full sun, making it an excellent choice for Florida’s hot and humid climate. Additionally, the Bismarck palm is resistant to pests and diseases. Therefore, it is a great low-maintenance option for busy homeowners. With its stunning appearance and easy-care nature, the Bismarck palm is an amazing investment for those who want to create a unique and visually appealing landscape design.

Christmas Palm

The Christmas palm is a popular choice for Florida landscaping because of its small size and low maintenance requirements. This palm tree typically grows up to twenty feet tall, making it an ideal option for smaller outdoor spaces or as a decorative element in larger landscapes. The Christmas palm is drought-tolerant. It can be kept in full sun or partial shade. Therefore, it is fit for places that receive different lighting conditions. Additionally, this palm tree produces small red fruits that resemble Christmas ornaments, adding a festive touch to your outdoor space. With its unique appearance and easy-care nature, the Christmas palm is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a visually appealing landscape without the hassle of regular maintenance.

Areca Palm

The Areca palm is a popular choice for Florida landscaping because of its lush, tropical appearance and low maintenance requirements. This palm tree typically grows up to thirty feet tall, making it an excellent option for larger outdoor spaces. The Areca palm can easily survive in all types of lighting conditions. Additionally, this palm tree is resistant to pests and diseases. You will not have to worry about its maintenance. With its graceful appearance and easy-care nature, the Areca palm is an excellent choice for those who want to create a tropical oasis in their outdoor space.

Coconut Palm

No palm tree list for a tropical landscaping idea would be complete without mentioning the iconic Coconut palm. This palm tree is synonymous with beach vacations, piña coladas, and lazy afternoons lounging in a hammock. With its tall, slender trunk and large, feathery fronds, the Coconut palm adds an unmistakable tropical vibe to any outdoor space.

The Coconut palm thrives in warm, coastal climates, making it a perfect choice for Florida landscaping. It requires full sun and well-draining soil to grow well, and regular watering is necessary during the tree’s early years. Once established, Coconut palms are drought-tolerant and require minimal maintenance.

Choosing the right palm trees for your landscaping idea can make a significant difference in transforming your outdoor space into a lush and tropical oasis. By considering factors such as size, maintenance requirements, and lighting conditions, you can select the perfect palm trees to suit your specific needs and preferences. Whether you opt for the playful and whimsical Foxtail palm or the towering and iconic Canary Island Date palm, Oasis Palms & Landscaping can help you create the perfect landscape design that will transport you to a world of exotic elegance.

Our team of experts can help you select the perfect palm trees and design a stunning landscape that will bring your vision to life. Don’t wait any longer to transform your backyard into a tropical paradise. Contact us now at 813-370-1135!

29 Nov

The right way to water plants

The best time of day to water plants depends on the type, but most prefer to be watered in the morning. This gives them time to absorb the water before the sun gets too hot, and it also helps prevent diseases. However, some plants (such as succulents) do better if they’re watered in the evening, so it’s always best to check your plant’s individual needs before you start watering.

Different methods to water plants

There are four different methods of watering plants: surface watering, drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, and hand watering.

Surface watering is the most common method of watering plants, and this involves simply filling a container with water and pouring it over the soil until the water runs off. The main disadvantage of surface watering is that it can be difficult to control how much water each plant gets.

Drip irrigation involves slowly dripping water onto the soil near the plant’s roots. This method reduces evaporation and ensures that each plant gets the same water.

Sprinkler irrigation is another efficient method of watering plants. It involves using a hose or sprinkler to distribute water evenly over an area. This method also reduces evaporation and ensures that each plant gets the same water.

Hand watering is the most labor-intensive way to water plants, but it can be necessary for some situations. This involves using a hose or watering can to pour water slowly onto the soil near the plant’s roots. Hand watering is often used for delicate plants that cannot tolerate too much water at once.

Pros and cons of each method

Many gardeners are still determining the best way to water their plants. There are several different methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Drip irrigation prevents water from being wasted on leaves and stems, which can happen with other methods. Drip irrigation also doesn’t require as much water pressure as other methods so it can be used in areas with lower water pressure. One downside of drip irrigation is that it can be more expensive than other methods and time-consuming to set up.

Sprinklers are a common watering method because they are inexpensive and easy to use. They can water large areas quickly, but they can also save a lot of water if used properly. Water droplets from sprinklers can fall on leaves and stems, leading to fungal diseases. And if the wind blows, sprinklers can disperse water outside the intended area.

Hand-watering is the most labor-intensive method of watering, but it also gives gardeners the most control over how much water their plants receive. When hand-watering, be sure to apply water directly to the roots of the plant; avoid getting leaves and stems wet if possible. Hand-watering is best for small gardens or individual plants.

The best way to water your plants depends on your particular garden and needs. Consider each method’s pros and cons before making a decision.

How often should you water your plants?

Water is among the many and most important things a gardener can give their plants, but the time to water can be tricky to figure out. When determining how often to water your plants, there are a few things to consider.

Different plants have different watering needs. For example, succulents and cacti need very little water, while other plants, like ferns, need more frequent watering.

The second thing to consider is the climate you live in.

Finally, it would be best if you thought about the time of year. During the hot and sunny time, your plants will need more water than they do during the cooler months of spring and fall.

Now that you know these things, you can start to figure out how often to water your plants. A good rule of thumb is to water most plants once a week, giving them enough water so that their soil is moist but not soggy. If unsure, it is always better to err on too little water rather than too much – too much water can drown your plants!

What type of water is best for plants?

Tap water is the most common type of water used for watering plants, and it is generally safe for most plants but contains chemicals that can harm some plants.

Rainwater: This is the best type of water for plants, as it is natural and free of chemicals.

Distilled water: This water has been purified and is free of all impurities, making it safe for all plants. However, because it does not contain any minerals, it can harm some plants if used too often.

If you are unsure what type of water to use on your plants, always err on the side of caution and give them a good soaking with rainwater or distilled water.

Tips for watering your plants properly

1. Make sure you know how much water your plants need. Overwatering can be just as harmful as not watering enough.

2. Check the soil before watering.

3. Water at the base of the plant rather than from above. This will help prevent water from getting on the leaves, which can promote fungal growth.

4. Water in the morning or evening, evaporation is less likely to occur.

5. Be mindful of drought conditions and adjust your watering accordingly. Plants may need less water during periods of low rainfall.

Conclusion

Watering plants properly is vital for your landscape. Following the tips in this article, you can ensure that your plants stay healthy and vibrant all season long. Do you have any other suggestions for watering plants? Let us know in the comments below!

Hire Oasis Palms & Landscaping in Tampa, as we are the best Lawn Care Specialists. We help create the yard of our client’s dreams.

Of course, it will be more cost-effective to tend to your lawn yourself. However, if you have a large yard, little spare time, or just don’t have a green thumb, you might want to hire a local lawn care professional to tend to your yard. You can always call us; we have a great experience with all types of yards and a stellar reputation. We know that competence, reliability, professionalism and care for our customers are our top priorities. And we must never, under any circumstances, forget this.

Photo by Jonathan Kemper on Unsplash

10 Feb

Essential Tips for Florida Lawns and Gardens in February

Essential Tips

Just because the temperature is still a little low doesn’t mean you can’t give your lawn and garden some Valentine’s love in February! Are you looking to get an early start before the arrival of the next growing season? Here are some of our essential February lawn and garden tips that all Florida home and business owners will appreciate.

Lawn Tips

Watering

It’s important to give your lawn a uniform ¾ inch of water every 10 to 14 days. For the best results, you should always water in the early morning hours before 8:00 a.m. while keeping in mind any local watering regulations (e.g. designated watering days). Read More →

15 Jan

How to Create Your Own Tropical Paradise Right in Your Backyard

How to Create Your Own Tropical Paradise

When people think of Florida yards, most think of lush green foliage, swaying palm trees, beautiful ocean views, natural elements, and well-placed ambient lighting. Create this quintessential scene in your own backyard with these tips and enjoy the tropics every time you go outside:

Show Off Your Green Thumb

Plants are the cornerstone of any beautiful outdoor space. Florida provides the perfect climate to grow so many gorgeous, colorful plants and flowers. Choose green plants of different heights, shades, and textures to add depth and interest to your yard! We are certainly fans of palm trees since no other plant gives you quite the same tropical feel. Some other popular green plants for your Florida yard include: Read More →

15 Dec

Common Landscaping Mistakes to Avoid

Common Landscaping Mistakes

If you’re the type of person that loves their lawn, you’ve surely spent the time and dedication it requires to learn how to care for it properly. You know that each type of grass has its own unique requirements and ideal conditions that must be respected. By doing so, you enjoy a perfectly manicured, beautifully uniform lawn that makes all of your neighbors green with envy.

So, there’s no way you would ever commit any of these common landscaping mistakes that plague those new to lawn care and landscaping: Read More →

15 Nov

The Best Mulch Alternatives

Mulch Alternatives

The benefits of mulching your flower beds, trees, and other decorative plants is undeniable! Mulch retains moisture in the underlying soil, insulates roots from freezing temperatures, prevents erosion, suppresses weed growth, and provides nutrients to plants as it breaks down over time. Mulch is a go-to for any organic landscaping project, and it’s for good reason!

However, buying commercially produced mulch can be expensive. If you’re an eco-warrior and want to bring sustainability to your yard, consider some of these great mulch alternatives: Read More →

15 Aug

5 Plants That Flower All Winter Long in Florida

Flower

5 Plants That Flower All Winter Long in Florida

There are so many beautiful plants that bloom all year long here in sunny Florida, it’s hard to choose just five to feature here (in fact, it was so hard, we threw in a bonus plant just because). We’ve searched through dozens of options to curate the following list, giving you winter flower options that will add color and interest to your landscaping all year. Check out these photos from our past jobs to see how we put these recommendations to work for Tampa Bay homes and businesses.

Gerbera Daisy

While most of the country plants gerbera daisies as annuals, Florida gardens are lucky enough to have this beauty in bloom all year long. Gerberas come in a variety of colors, including red, pink, yellow, orange, purple, and white. Their large blooms are eye-catching and make great cut flowers in arrangements too! Plant gerberas in fertile, well-draining soil with lots of morning sun and some afternoon shade for the best bloom. Read More →

15 Jul

2021 Landscaping Design Trends

Landscaping Design Trends

The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic changed everything about how we interact in our outdoor spaces. Back yards became havens where friends and family congregate with great food, even better conversation, and lots of love. Flower beds turned into makeshift veggie gardens. People began appreciating the benefits of native plants. This return to simplicity has continued in landscaping design in 2021, showing how our values and preferences have been drastically altered by spending more time at home. We expect to see the following landscaping design trends prevail in 2021 and beyond: Read More →