FAQ
These are some of our most frequently asked questions.
Q What environmental concerns are associated with landscaping?
A There are many. For instance, the waste of water due to poorly installed and maintained irrigation systems. The many tons of debris generated in landscaping that are mostly deposited in landfills instead of being composted and recycled. Also, the great amount of energy needed to produce the synthetic fertilizers and pesticides commonly used today, and the poisoning of our water supply due to the storm run-off containing these fertilizers and pesticides. The regular use of gas-powered equipment for maintenance are concerns because of the fuel consumption and emissions. There are many others, but when it is done correctly, landscaping can be part of the solution instead.
Q What does "Sustainable Landscape Solutions" mean?
A This refers to the many things that can be done to make your landscape more attractive yet more useful, more efficient, and minimize negative long-term effects on the environment. This includes conserving water and reducing storm run-off, composting and recycling green waste, reducing synthetic fertilizer and pesticide use, using plants and trees to help control temperatures around and in your home, and identifying and correcting small problems before they become more costly to correct later.
Q What is "green waste" and what happens when it is removed?
A Green waste is a term that refers to the plant material that is cut, pruned, trimmed, and removed from your yard. Most landscapers take it to landfills where it is not composted or recycled. We encourage homeowners to set up compost stations on their property when it is feasible, and to be sure it is taken to a compost facility otherwise.
Q What is "greenwashing" and why is it a problem?
A Greenwashing is a term used to describe misleading marketing efforts by some companies to portray themselves as environmentally responsible when they really are not.
Q Why does it matter if a landscaper has certifications or not?
A Certifications alone certainly don’t tell the whole story, but in general they are a good indicator of competance and the level of training and continuing education a landscape professional has received. There are a number of those who are qualified but not certified, and there are many others who are certified that perhaps shouldn’t be. Be sure to also check, insurance, licensing, and references.
Q Can a tree that has fallen over and been re-staked many times ever be able to stand up on its own?
A It's not likely. In some situations, it may be best to replace it. You can try to keep standing it up, but if it doesn't have the root structure to hold itself up now as a small tree, it is unlikely that it will be able to develop the structure it needs to hold itself up as a larger, heavier tree. If it is possible, certain conditions need to be met for it to be successful.
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