The Perfect Home Guide ~ 4155 St. Johns Parkway, Suite 2000 ~ Sanford, FL 32771 ~ 407-920-4079
The Perfect Home Guide: Summer 2009: Getting Back to the Basics

Florida experienced a rough winter this year, a lot more freezing occurred than we typically experience. It is time to get your landscaping green again.

  1. If your current home is older than 5 years, talk to your landscape professional about upgrading your irrigation system for better efficiency and better water preservation.
  2. Trim back those brown palms that were battered by the winter. Trimming back the palms will help to initiate new green growth.
  3. To encourage healthy root growth with your lawn, and reduce the need for watering, keep your grass as high as is optimum for the species.
  4. If your lawn needs a quick boost of color, you can CAREFULLY apply a fast-release fertilizer such as urea. Carefully is the key word. You do NOT want to apply too much fast-release fertilizer or you may burn your lawn! Be sure to follow the instructions on the bag or talk with a professional before applying.
  5. Add color to your hedges all summer long by planting a low flowery plant of yellow or white potentilla, deep pink spirea or golden-leafed privet for a crisp look.
  6. Spruce up your driveway or walkways with pavers. Many paver colors and patterns are available. It is important to get an experienced contractor to help with the install. Check with your local landscape professional for recommendations.
  7. Clean out those beds. Spend some time cleaning out flower beds of palms and falling leaves to give your landscaping a crisp, clean look.
  8. Hire a landscape professional to help you design and install a whole new look for the summer. Cost for a new landscape design and install is much more affordable today than it was 2-3 years ago.
  9. Last but not least, ENjOY YOUR SUMMER!