Nobody Likes Being Ignored So Don’t Ignore Your Landscape

Many commercial properties overlook the importance of maintaining their landscape, often treating it as an unnecessary expense. 

But let’s face it, a well-maintained landscape is more than just a pretty face—it’s a smart investment! Ignoring costly issues like irrigation, erosion, and tree health for years can lead to even bigger problems and safety hazards down the line. 

Beneath the surface, a complex network of plastic pipes and wires often goes unnoticed, either serving as an unseen ally or a disruptive enemy when neglected. Irrigation typically receives the lowest priority in the annual budget, yet it should be at the top of the list. Without regular maintenance, water is wasted, causing higher costs, declining vegetation, and erosion. Even after irrigation repairs are made, new issues may surface as water pressure improves, revealing nonfunctioning stations or leaks. 

Walkways covered in mud, transformers sinking into the ground, and disappearing foundations are major safety concerns caused by erosion. Several factors can cause erosion on a property, such as insufficient plant material to hold the soil in place, poorly maintained irrigation, and drainage issues. Ignoring these problems can lead to mudslides, foundational issues, and cracks in tiles or pavements. These aren’t just eyesores—they’re safety hazards. Mud causes residents to slip and fall, and foundational issues mean buildings deteriorate over time.

Trees that aren’t properly maintained through regular pruning and shaping risk becoming diseased, unstable, or even dying prematurely. Overgrowth can weaken the tree’s structure, making it more susceptible to insect disease and wind damage. Trees planted too close to structures can create entry points for pests, such as termites, which can damage the building’s foundation and interior. Additionally, trees that grow near power lines can cause serious hazards, including fires or electrical outages, when branches contact wires. Routine tree care helps prevent these dangers, preserving both the trees and the surrounding property.

In the end, treating landscape maintenance as an afterthought can lead to significant, long-term consequences. A well-maintained landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also preserves the structural integrity of your property. From preventing erosion and irrigation issues to ensuring tree health, a small investment in upkeep today can prevent much larger costs tomorrow. It’s time to shift your perspective and view your landscape as a vital asset that requires attention and care.

Often, we see these three items of concern together.  Making the sequence of repairs the most important factor in a professional long term or permanent solution.  Expenses can be high, and often, a multi-year plan is necessary for budget purposes. 

 EarthWorks specializes in property evaluation to be certain work to this complexity is done in the proper order for both horticultural reasons and financial.   

January through March is the most opportune time of the year to identify and rectify these concerns.   

• Correcting drainage and irrigation problems during these months allows time for proper watering back to declined areas before the growing season begins. 

•   Proper tree pruning and/or elimination will allow for vegetation to re-establish before the growing season and heat returns.