The parkway area was just a boring expanse of grass. The owner wanted to add interest and reduce maintenance. We started with a flagstone path and planted Creeping Thyme and Veronica that will fill up the cracks over time. Adding a few boulders shored up the sloped grade to control erosion. A balance of medium to large shrubs and low groundcovers shape the shady space welcoming you home.

The owner wanted the crabapple tree removed because it was growing at an angle and was half the size of the identical tree next door. We soon found out why – it had been planted with the wire basket from the nursery still wrapped around the root ball. A word of advice: Never do this! Trust me, I’ve removed three(!) of these trees now, and they’re all a mess.

The patio area was enlarged for more seating and we converted the island planter into a bench that could be used for extra seating or as a serving area. It would have been a brilliant place for a gas fireplace, but the owner didn’t want to add the cost.

The grass was just an extra step of maintenance that seemed unnecessary for patio living – we got rid of the mower and added a lot more flowers. We extended the planter all the way out to the sidewalk and filled it with xeriscape flowers and shrubs. It also served as the perfect spot to put the owner’s prized wolf sculpture.