Spring reveals that it’s time to clean up our lawns and get them ready for the season ahead – yet lawn maintenance can feel like a hassle. However, if you got any landscaping in Calgary done, you don’t want to tarnish its aesthetic appeal by allowing your lawn to transform into a messy jungle.

Avoid doing so by seeing how you can prepare your lawn for spring!

Creating the Perfect Lawn for Landscaping

A pristine, green lawn doesn’t appear overnight. Just like how Calgary landscaping designers put work into their projects, you also need to put work into your lawn to achieve the clean, cut look you desire.

Check out what to do down below:

Add Compost

The most important thing you can do for your lawn is add compost to it. Adding compost is the first thing you should do when spring arrives.

Compost helps your lawn by adding nutrients and organic matter to the soil, nourishing your grass and plants. You can buy a composting product made for your specific type of soil, or you can use an organic fertilizer formed from compost.

Apply Mulch

Mulching your lawn is a great way to keep the soil in your lawn moist and prevent weeds from growing. You can use several types of mulches, such as decomposed leaves, shredded wood, or even paper bags. The key is to pick a mulch that is low in nitrogen and high in carbon.

Watering Consistently

Water your lawn thoroughly once every 10-14 days during the spring. It will help to free up residual soil that may be clinging to the grass, reduce the number of fertilizers you’ll need to apply and keep the weeds at bay.

You can give your lawn one final watering just before you mow it. This watering should be a light mist that lasts only a few seconds.

Use Fertilizer

When it comes to fertilizing your lawn, the best thing to do is test your soil first. You can do this by inserting a soil test strip into the ground where you want to grow your lawn. Once you receive the results, you’ll know exactly what fertilizer to use. If you’re unsure about what to do next, we recommend starting with a low-nitrogen lawn. It will help prevent your grass from becoming too lush, which can cause it to die back and need more frequent mowing.

Weeding Out Weeds

Weeding is another chore, but shouldn’t be put off since it grows vigorously during this time, so you’ll have to weed your lawn more frequently. There are a couple of ways to go about weeding: pulling each weed out by hand or using a special weeding tool designed to remove weeds without damaging the grass.

Transform your home and increase its value and curb appeal while working with the best landscape company in Calgary with Tazscapes. Our award-winning team of landscape contractors and designers is recognized for creating and delivering stunning landscape designs in Calgary that are beautiful, functional and affordable. We offer various services, including landscape design, residential, commercial and acreage landscaping, hardscaping, such as retaining walls and concrete patios, and softscaping, such as sod and artificial grass installation. Our eye for details, meticulous planning and unique landscaping methods and eye-catching results is why we’re a two-time Consumer Choice Award Winner. Contact us today at 587-578-0747 or [email protected].

Landscaping is a great way to spruce up your home’s surrounding area. It transforms it into a visual feast for the eyes and lets you be creative about the land around your home. With so much that can go into it, how much would it all cost for landscaping in Calgary?

If you want to dip your toes into landscaping but are uncertain about the price, read on – check out below how much it can cost and why!

The Cost of Landscaping in Calgary

Many elements make up the overall price of landscaping. Consider these factors before contacting landscaping companies or contractors. It can help you determine how much you should budget for a project and what would be the best avenue to take for it.

The Value in Landscaping

Landscaping can seem like a pricey project to undertake. Yet, so many choose to do so – why is that? For the most part, homeowners choose to do so as an aesthetic extension of their home. Who wouldn’t like to have a lovely-looking property? Speaking of good-looking property, adding some landscaping to a home you intend to sell can significantly increase its value. Therefore, you can expect to price your property at a higher asking price for any potential buyers and receive a big profit from doing so.

Landscaping Cost Factors

There is no real fixed cost for landscaping. Certain factors affect how much you might spend, such as your property size, certain materials, labour costs, and the type of work you would like. Plus, it depends on how landscaping contractors charge you – which can either be an hourly rate or per square foot.

But to give an idea of average costs, you can expect to pay as low as $3,000 to as high as $100,000.

When budgeting for a landscaping project, it’s suggested to pay 10% of your home’s value, so you’re not overspending or low balling the quality of the property since landscape work can add a lot of value to a place.

A Landscaping Quote

At the end of the day, your best bet to understand how much a landscape design in Calgary will be is to reach out to professionals. They can accurately give you a quote by breaking down the costs of what the overall total would come to for your project. To budget better for your landscaping project, compare quotes with other businesses and their portfolio work to see if it’s affordable for you and suits your tastes and if you appreciate the work quality.

Your Calgary yard is your personal sanctuary, but how do you even begin to think of backyard landscaping ideas that will optimize your space?

Here’s a quote you have probably already seen elsewhere on our website, but I’ll write it again:

“What is it about the landscape that awakens the deepest response in us?

Surely it is the very unity of existence.

The sense of the sublime of something far more deeply infused, whose dwelling is the light of the setting suns, and the round ocean, and the living air, and the blue sky, and the mind of man;

a motion and a spirit that impels all thinking things, and objects, and all thoughts, and rolls through all things.

We cannot be anything other than related, for every atom that makes up our constantly changing bodily form comes from the same source as the mountain, lake, bird, and fish.”

– LEATHERS, 1980

One of the things I learned during my landscape design training was the importance of connecting our senses to our natural surroundings.

Designing for residential home-owners is always a challenge. Seeking to evoke primary human senses such as sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste in someone’s Calgary yard isn’t an easy task.

In years of doing this, I’ve come to realize that by letting budgets hold me back, I tend to lack creativity. I become yet another landscaper who installs a 12’ circle patio and fire pit and hopes clients will bite.

How ridiculously boring.

In successfully running my own Calgary landscaping company, I’ve learned that I have to let my creativity run. Instead, I focus on presenting what I call the “Maserati” of designs to the client and let them tell me they’d rather have a Toyota.

Don’t get me wrong; I understand that no one would say no to a Maserati if they could afford it. But at the same time, ask yourself how many times you bought something you really couldn’t afford but just had to have it.

Exactly. Striking a primordial cord into my client’s emotions is critical. I hope to show them what they can have in their own Calgary yard every single day and, why they don’t need to travel miles and miles away on vacation every year.

Instead, they can invest that money into their own personal sanctuary.

I initially got this concept stuck in my psyche when I first moved to Calgary about five years ago. A high-end client told me that she and her husband sold their multi-million dollar business and retired.

Her husband told her she had two choices:

He can buy her a house in Palm Springs, and they can go there for six months out of the year to avoid the cold Calgary winters.
They can develop their 5 acres or 2-acre backyard.

Her response to him was: “I don’t like to travel.”

Here are a few examples of creative, “Maserati” landscape designs we at Tazscapes have proposed to our clients. We wanted to show them that the possibilities are endless if they genuinely wish to make their Calgary yard their own personal island:

Project #1: Decked Out Calgary Yard

Located in Aspen Woods, Calgary, our clients had an existing pressure-treated deck that they used quite often. It was a 12’ x 24’ deck, but it wasn’t big enough to entertain some of their high-end business associates.

They also didn’t have any room for a hot-tub they were hoping to install. So, they contacted us to propose backyard landscaping ideas that would accomplish all of their needs.

I followed my foundational design concept of ideal destination points: cooking, dining and lounging. Having these focal points at different levels, I suspended the beam structure overhead and connected each element. This was the most efficient way to bring coziness to the space.

I also made sure that they would have all their requirements fulfilled. There was an area for an outdoor kitchen, a central space for dining and a grand area for lounging and entertaining.

By bringing in the overhead pergola structure, I not only connected each area but allowed for an experiential transition between each space. I accentuated it by adding a plexiglass bridge that would let visitors walk over a dry creek bed to get to the grand lounging deck.

Project #2: The Garden Bar

Located in Bearspaw, Calgary, the clients of this residence had an existing gazeebo they wanted to be refurbished. During a consultation, I learned that they wanted more than a gazeebo – they hoped to create an outdoor retreat. At the end of our conversation, I suggested that they essentially want a living room outside, and they agreed.

As a Calgary landscaping expert, I always ensure that my game is in tip-top shape so I can impress my clients with a unique and custom landscape design.

I designed a gazebo structure that had everything they would ever need right inside. A central fire pit featuring a built-in chimney to release smoke would give the space a hint of primal nature that would evoke their senses.

We also installed a bar/kitchen top that surrounded them, along with two TVs so they could sit back and enjoy an evening around the fire.

And yes, the client used to work as an executive at Shaw Cable – the salesman in me had to throw that in there!

Project #3: The Subtle Picturesque Garden

This one was one of Tazscapes’ more lucrative projects.

When I met the client, she was extremely frustrated with the space she originally had. It was small and – sorry to say – it was ugly.

She mentioned her inability to come up with decent patio and landscaping ideas for such a small space.

In the past, she had a couple of landscape contractors and “trained” landscape designers in Calgary come into her Calgary yard to give her some ideas. She even paid a landscape designer to draft a detailed drawing for her.

When she showed me the design, I shook my head in disbelief. It just didn’t make any sense.

It consisted of a lot of decking for such a small space, especially since the clients were a young couple looking for a low-maintenance, classic garden feel.

The client wanted a Calgary yard in which she could spend hours enjoying the sun. She also hoped to gain something aesthetically pleasing that she could see from her existing concrete patio, and from her kitchen inside. As a landscape design expert, I heard this as, “I want to be able to simulate my senses after a long day at work.”

I knew there was little to no space for grass. With the square footage being so small, I suggested artificial turf (fake grass landscaping). I also knew we needed a feature piece. She already had a concrete patio, and judging from my consultation, she didn’t need anything elaborate to entertain lots of guests.

Clearly, she wanted a personal oasis. I proposed a water feature bubbler so that the calming sounds can give her the tranquillity she was looking for. With vivid green grass (albeit, synthetic) in conjunction with the surrounding plant material, we were able to fill her small space with life and serenity. It couldn’t have been more of a personal sanctuary.

Project #4: Backyard Beach Resort

Clients in Priddis, Calgary came to me when they acquired this new home. With a lake backing their yard, they asked how they can create a personal retreat. They mentioned that they wanted to take advantage of the water by incorporating a beach for their kids. The clients also said that they had many people push acreage landscaping ideas that they weren’t particularly happy about.

As a reputable company, we take pride in ensuring that each client gets the most thought-out landscape design proposal possible. We went right to work on this project to come up with truly custom and unique landscaping ideas.

I proposed to create a beach resort in their backyard that was so serene; it would lead them to believe that they could enjoy an all-inclusive vacation anytime they wanted. I also strived to make sure they had everything they would need – from dining with the family to entertaining a large group of friends – all while taking advantage of the lakeside view.

Since the family had a passion for fishing, I designed a custom dock that gave them ample space for various activities. The final result imitated the amenities of an all-inclusive resort.

Having a vision for spaces is critical when designing. It doesn’t need to be highly complex or extravagantly expensive. Rather, it needs to serve a function for your everyday life.

Landscaping companies in Calgary often conform to the same things over and over again. Thus, it’s critical for anyone willing to invest their hard-earned dollars to demand a detailed and creative landscape design proposal from their landscaping contractor.

Contact Tazscapes Inc today and find out how we can make your Calgary yard your own personal island!

Water is as natural as it gets. There is something about the sound and look of a beautiful water feature that captivates many Calgary home-owners.

Installing an outdoor water feature for your Calgary residential landscaping can be as simple as a ‘rock bubbling water fountain,’ or as intricate as a grand waterfall spilling into a rushing stream. Don’t forget the live fish!

Yep, it’s all possible in a backyard water feature.

There are many options to choose from, and each has their weight in gold.

Maintenance and budget are usually the top concerns when it comes to considering an outdoor water feature.

These may be mitigated depending on what kind of outdoor water feature ideas your landscape designer proposes. Nonetheless, it’s imperative that your detailed landscape design can implement it well with the overall concept of your backyard.

I encourage outdoor water feature ideas, especially in bigger backyards. However, I always make sure that the type and style of ideas I propose make sense. This is not only so I can comply with what client desires, but also so it fits in with the overall scale and elements of the property.

Outdoor Waterfalls

A waterfall is a fantastic focal point that can bring a sense of tranquillity to your yard. The sound enhances the yard’s overall serenity and can add value to the backyard escape.

By altering the layout of the stones, you can set up multiple levels of falls giving it a cascading effect. Thus, you enhance the visual aspect of the feature in your landscape.

Ponds

Ponds add value to your property and tend to give you an escape from the everyday rat-race. They do require regular maintenance to thrive, but don’t worry! The service is often be provided by the Calgary landscaping company for a recurring fee.

They can be a real undertaking, but when done correctly, ponds can create a great visual masterpiece in your backyard.

Pondless

There’s an option for those still aiming for a waterfall but not interested in having to deal with regular maintenance of a full-sized pond. Many of our Calgary residents tend to choose a pondless water feature.

Essentially, in a pondless outdoor water feature, you have a reservoir in which the water spills. It’s then redirected (or pumped) to cycle back up to the top so it can fall again and recycle water.

Rock Bubblers or Fountains

A rock bubbling fountain is something I often recommend to clients who aren’t big on water features because I know it would enhance the look and feel of their yard. These are also great for small backyards or small gardens.

Sometimes, during the landscape design process, I like to put statement features in certain areas. One great feature is water – but when I get pushback from my clients, it’s mainly because of maintenance and budget. Then, I lean towards the rock bubbling water fountain.

It’s a simple concept. I am taking a natural rock, drilling a hole, feeding a pump through it and having a small catch basin underneath (similar to a pondless reservoir).

With a push of a button, my clients can increase/decrease the flow, or turn it on and off as they please.

Rock bubblers or natural water fountains are cost-effective, require almost no maintenance and enhance small backyards and gardens immensely.

Outdoor water feature installation

Outdoor water features can be labour-intensive and require precise landscape planning and detailed execution by your Calgary landscaping company. You must ensure you have installed something that will work for years to come – especially given the Calgary weather.

Excavation needs to happen accurately to make sure that a reputable pond builder in Calgary correctly installs the pond liner and pump.

At Tazscapes, we design and install outdoor water features of all sizes and make sure our clients’ needs are fulfilled. Our detailed landscape design proposal and excellent-quality construction are unparalleled in Calgary.

Give us a call today if you are thinking about bringing some sights and sounds of tranquillity to your Calgary backyard!

When proposing backyard landscaping ideas for your Calgary landscape design, you have to first establish what your ideal destination point is.

What will that perfect space help you accomplish? Will you be cooking there, lounging, or using it as a dining area? What about all three?

I spoke about the importance of establishing your destination points in earlier blogs, but it needs to be known from the onset otherwise everything else won’t make sense!

Patio spaces are often built out of manufactured stones and recommended for outdoor residential landscaping. This is because of its multi-use functionality and aesthetic quality that most home-owners appreciate.

We compiled 6 tips to achieve picture-perfect patio and landscaping ideas that you can use to amp up your Calgary yard today!

Tip #1: Location

Think about where you want your new patio space. More often than not, you should keep it close to the house. This makes for easy access in case you’re going to be using it for barbequing or outdoor dining.

After all, there’s no need to force yourself to walk long distances to bring dishes or drinks out– especially if you barbeque during the winter.

If your patio will be a lounging area or, for example, you want to build a small fire-pit for parties with friends; it should be further away from the house. Design an exciting transition space for the way there, i.e. create an experiential journey to your destination.

Pay attention to where you are placing this patio because it will speak profoundly to the functionality of your overall backyard landscaping design.

Tip #2: Scale

Think about the size of the patio in conjunction with the scale of your house and property. Then answer the vital question: How many people are going to be using the space at any given time?

Pace it out, stake it out or paint it out. Do what you have to so you can visualize the space and understand the scale of the proposed patio.

The last thing you want is to have the patio constructed and realize it’s too small. This includes considering both its functionality and aesthetic, (i.e. a 10’ diameter patio on a 4-acre lot – don’t laugh, I’ve seen it before).

This is where experienced deck builders in Calgary can help you visualize the patio you don’t just want, but the one your lot needs.

Tip #3: Form

There are mainly two foundational forms (or shapes) you can tailor your backyard patio ideas to: rectilinear or curvilinear.

I always recommend the clients to assess what look they are going for. Take a glance at your house- is it a contemporary or modern home? If so, you should probably stay rectilinear – it’ll match the style a lot better. If it’s traditional, then a curvilinear form would look a lot nicer.

You can also combine the two, though that requires some careful design lines for the blend to look flawless. Yes, lines matter: there is a whole book dedicated to it called, you guessed it, Lines by Tim Ingold.

Tip #4: Transition

How do you establish these destination points (assuming your patio has multiple facets)? Your patio can have levels or elevation changes.

You can surround your patio with softscaping, so it doesn’t feature an abrupt start or end. Adding retaining walls to separate different destination points also works well.

A transition between different focal points will make a big difference in the overall perspective of the space.

Tip #5: Material

Choose your stone, including the colour and the pattern of the stone, with immense thought behind it. Don’t just choose the stone your landscaper tells you to. Chances are they’re thinking about keeping their costs low and time fast, so trust your preferences.

Explore your options and select wisely because attention to detail will set your backyard landscaping apart from others. Go through stone manufacturer websites and catalogues to see ones that stand out at you. Then, visit a landscape supply store near you and look at samples.

Choosing the right stone for your patio will ensure that you paid attention to detail when coming up with your backyard patio idea.

Tip #6: Backyard Landscaping Features

In Calgary, when you select the location of your patio, you have to see how the sun will move around that space. For example, if your backyard landscaping is south facing, you will have the sun most of the day. On some days, however, it may get unbearable to sit in the heat.

Consider feature structures, like a privacy screen or a pergola, when coming up with a backyard patio design. They can give you some shade and add character to the patio. By doing this, you are also enhancing the experience of that space during use as the eye will immediately be drawn to it.

It’s always good to have a professional landscape designer ensure all these points are met when proposing patio design ideas for your Calgary backyard. By integrating these principals, you can rest assured your patio is one that will be not only aesthetically pleasing but functionally enjoyable to use, too.

Call Tazscapes Inc today to start brainstorming patio ideas for your backyard in Calgary!

So you just finished your final walk-through with your Calgary landscape contractors and (hopefully) are happy with everything they accomplished. You handed them their final cheque, shook hands, they hopped in their truck and are on their way to the next job.

On the other end, you turn around and see your yard, remembered what it was and saw what it became. You couldn’t be happier!

Now, the hard part: maintaining your new yard. From hardscape care to everyday lawn maintenance, every dollar you spent should be worthwhile.

Here are some tips on how to ensure your landscape maintenance is up to par for years to come:

Hardscaping Landscape Maintenance

The hardscaping portion of your landscape was probably your most costly, so it’s imperative you don’t let it get damaged.

Paving Stones:

Sweep your patio regularly, especially after a party or gathering.
Power-wash once a month – you can rent one from Home Depot
Ensure regular polymeric sand between joints to keep weeds from growing.
Remove any stains that stick with a store-bought solution from any garden center.
Remove and relay any paving stones that shift – this is normal especially with Calgary chinook weather.

Concrete:

Reseal concrete every second year or so depending on the degree of wear and tear.
Power wash regularly to remove debris.
Remove any oil, grease or other stains right away before they settle in.
Pay attention to expansion joints as water seeps through, and call for a professional to fix it immediately.

Stone Retaining Walls:

Pay attention to any settling within the first year.
Make sure caps stay glued or re-apply PL to secure caps on the wall.
Ensure that the wall isn’t being “pushed out” from water pressure over time and continues to drain properly.
Avoid salt or deicers around the retaining walls.

Softscaping

Softscaping is what is going to give your yard a vibrant glow. Green grass, blooming trees and shrubs are where all your colors and textures are going to come from. It’s important that you take care of these crucial elements on a regular basis to ensure optimal landscaping.

Sod:

Water, water, water. The first two-three weeks you should water your lawn twice a day- early morning and late evening.
Don’t cut new grass for at least three weeks – let it grow into the soil.
Some yellow/brownish patches are normal – it’s just the heat, keep watering!
If the patch remains, either replace the sod or power rake it and throw a high-quality seed mix in, then wait.

Plant Materials:

Give it time to grow.
Again, water, water, water – but don’t drown the plant.
Prune regularly, remove dead branches.

Groundcover:

Spray round-up anytime you see weeds growing.
Top up mulch as it starts to decompose.
Cut out straggly, loose fabric underneath, and replace it with newer fabric stapled to the existing one.
Blow or pick the fruits and cones falling from your trees.

Calgary landscapers should always let their clients know about maintenance protocols for the work that they do. This is the only way to ensure that the yard stays beautiful for more than a season, and all the hard-earned money that was invested can be shown off for years to come!

Natural stone boulder retaining walls are in vogue at the moment.

Retaining walls made of stone boulders have gained popularity among Calgary residents. Why? Not only do they have an enchanting quality, but they’re also amazingly sturdy and robust.

People use them for various purposes. Some clients need them to strengthen sloped terrains. Some opt for them just for decorative purposes. Others use them to mark the boundaries of their plot. The most common function of boulder retaining walls is the prevention of soil erosion.

Take a more in-depth look and find out more about how natural stone boulder retaining walls can benefit your yard.

About Boulders

Boulders are natural stones found in a range of sizes, shapes, and colours. These stones are frequently used to build retaining walls primarily due to their ability to fit into any outdoor space. They can also provide the area with unparalleled natural beauty.

You will find boulders around water features in gardens (like waterfalls, garden ponds and the like), pools, zen gardens, and so on.

Another factor that makes boulders extremely popular as a component used in landscaping is the broad variety of textures and colours in which they are available.

Boulders are shaped naturally by glaciers and water. Thus the textures they feature are always unique. This element of boulders allows landscape designers to create exciting and distinctive visual effects.

Designing Retaining Walls with Boulders

There cannot be a better material than natural boulders when it comes to constructing retaining walls. That’s because no other natural stone can combine appearance with functionality as efficiently as big, naturally-formed boulders.

If the place you are located in boasts a sizeable natural slope, having a sturdy supporting structure becomes extremely important. The structure may play a double role. Ideally, it should make the region more aesthetic, and help in protecting the land against erosion.

You can use these walls also for dividing sloping land areas into visually enhanced, functional horizontal zones. You can also create a personal garden to grow plants and herbs, or keep it a simple green lawn that surrounds your abode.

Why Natural Stone?

You can use various materials to construct a supporting structure in your garden. Examples include wood, brick, cinder blocks, concrete and the like.

There are also various stone types that are used for this purpose. However, none of them come with the qualities that boulders possess.

Retaining walls built using boulders make the most of the aesthetic value of these stones. Besides, boulders are exceedingly strong and are frost-resistant.

Boulders can also withstand aggressive environmental hazards and sudden temperature changes. Retaining walls made up of these textured stones add character and rustic charm to a home’s exterior.

We already mentioned that boulders are found in a range of shapes. Landscaping companies decide which shape would be suitable for a particular project depending on the needs, taste, and preferences of the client.

For instance, tall stones make great additions to rock gardens or gardens featuring waterfalls. You can even use them to form a retaining wall’s base. The low, massive vertical boulders are also great for constructing the base of retaining walls as they are heavy and strong.

Construction

It would be wise to go for natural boulder rocks instead of manmade ones as the former can provide you with aesthetic uniqueness. However, make sure that the boulders you are using score heavily when it comes to both visual appeal and strength.

Large boulders are exceedingly heavy. So, to reduce transportation costs, you should pick a local source to get all the boulders required for building a retaining wall to your garden.

Before placing your order, however, you must find out the number of boulders you will need to complete the job. Consider the desired height and length of the wall you are looking to build.

Ideally, you should buy boulders of various sizes from small to large. This would make shaping the corners much more accessible. Also, your landscape designer should also be able to add more wall variations.

Before initiating the project, it’s important to check the local laws about the construction of retaining walls.

Also, obtain the required permits from your local authorities.

If you have decided to build the wall yourself, get a sketch of your desired retaining wall ready before starting the job. Also, list all the measurements accurately.

We would not encourage you to make this one a do-it-yourself project as such jobs require significant technical knowledge. For instance, only experienced Calgary landscaping companies would be able to tell you whether you need to remove any tree or underground electricity/water lines to build the wall.

The process of construction begins by setting up a solid foundation. Workers would dig up the soil either by using a digging machine or with a shovel. They follow this process by forming a 4-inch layer of gravel, which the Calgary landscape contractors will compact to add solidity to the wall’s base. They would also cover the gravel with a sufficient amount of sand.

Now, it’s time to arrange the boulders. The workers would begin by placing the biggest boulders first. Smaller boulders are typically used at the higher levels of a retaining wall. Thanks to their incredibly heavy weight, you will need to hire extra men for transporting the large boulders.

Construction of a natural boulder retaining wall is unlikely to involve the use of mortar. That’s because the weight and shape of boulders ensure that walls made with them will be strong.

The next factor that plays a vital role in this construction project is drainage.

It’s true that a boulder retaining wall would offer natural drainage. However, the Calgary landscapers that take your project on must still leave enough gaps between boulders so that water gets drained smoothly.

Once all large boulders are appropriately placed, you should fill the gaps between them with smaller boulders. This provides additional support to the retaining wall and makes it stronger.

There’s something about a crisp, green Calgary lawn that is just so satisfying.

After all, nothing is worse than seeing your neighbourhood sprinkled with pale brown, unhealthy lawns littered with dry patches.

Quality residential landscaping in Calgary can be challenging to maintain. With that said, there are ways to help you keep up that lusciously healthy lawn and avoid costly mistakes.

The Grass Can Be Greener On Every Side

Lawn care in Calgary is so diverse. Have you ever wondered how two homes, side by side, can have such contrasting grass colour? They get the same sun, same water- so what’s the difference?

We always make sure our clients understand the importance of a well-cared-for, healthy lawn.

First, it makes a huge difference in the long run, especially when it comes to resale value.

It’s curb appeal – the first thing someone will notice as they approach your home for the first time. I’m sure we don’t have to tell you of the power of first impressions!

Second, through proper Calgary lawn care, everything in your yard will start to have a healthier look over time. It even improves the overall air quality of the landscape surrounding your home.

Take a look at some of our Calgary lawn care tips that will ensure a top quality lawn for your property.

Mistake #1: Not Mowing Your Lawn Often Enough

Mowing your lawn can be a nuisance, but if you create a weekly mowing schedule for yourself, it’s a great routine to get into.

We recommend that our clients mow to a height of approximately 2” to 3”. By doing so, you maintain a manicured, natural look to your Calgary lawn.

Make sure you sharpen your blades every spring, especially before your first cut.

Unsharpened blades won’t give your grass a proper cut. You’ll find yourself having to go over the same spots several times to get all the missed patches. Otherwise, your lawn can look uneven and poorly maintained.

Who wants that?

Get Creative

Don’t be afraid to get creative in regards to your mowing pattern. Every time you mow, start from a different direction than the previous cut.

This way, you are cutting more leaf surface on weeds that may tend to lean in different directions. Another bonus to doing this is a reduction in soil compaction and turf wear-and-tear from the mower wheels.

Buy a Trimmer

They’re inexpensive, efficient and help you catch the spots the mower couldn’t reach.

There are many areas – such as against retaining walls, garden beds and walkways to name a few – that the lawn mower can’t get to. Trying to force the mower onto those areas can ruin its blades and even damage or scratch the surfaces you’re trying to cut against.

A trimmer is all you need to do the trick!

Mistake #2: Leaving Your Lawn to Dry Out

If you’ve just had a Calgary landscaper do your sod installation, you’ll need to be watering it twice per day. Do this for the first two to three weeks minimum depending on how hot the weather gets.

Water once early in the morning, preferably around sunrise. Water again later in the evening or at sunset time.

This schedule is ideal for allowing the water to soak into the soil. Heat and humidity will be lower at these times than at other points of the day. This prevents the water from evaporating right away and ensures complete absorption.

Once the roots are established, you should infrequently water it, depending on the weather and the health of your lawn.

Generally, once your grass has been established, you want to apply about one inch of water to soak into the grass daily.

A great habit to get into is watering your lawn early in the morning before going to work. Think of it like feeding the dog before starting your day.

You want to make sure the grass is well fed for the day, so if it gets hot, it doesn’t burn patches. Give it another go once again after supper time as the sun starts to make its way down.

Mistake #3: Not Fertilizing Your Lawn

Fertilizing your lawn is always worth considering for optimal lawn care in Calgary. When nutrient levels drop below what’s needed to maintain healthy conditions, fertilizing will give your lawn a good boost.

There are several organic fertilizers on the market that can supply all the nutrients you need for a healthy lawn. Just walk into your local Calgary garden centre and ask an expert!

There are three major nutrients you should be looking out for: nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.

Read the product’s label to make sure that it has these three elements. Providing your lawn with all three nutrients will ensure you have proper leaf growth, root growth, and future stress resistance.

The fertilizing process is simple: just read the directions on the bag and apply it accordingly.

Mistake #4: Missing the Issues with Your Calgary Lawn

Many times, when you see patches of grass that seem like they’re dead, or just worse off than the rest of the lawn, you should give it some time.

Add a little extra water to the problem area and see what’s happening. If it’s not repairing itself, try adding some grass seeds to it and keep an eye on it.

The City of Calgary’s website provides a great way to repair damaged grass:

“You can repair larger dead patches by reseeding. Mix grass seed into compost or soil in a container such as a bucket. Then spread the mixture over the dead spot. Lightly pack it by stepping on it but make sure it’s dry before you do so (you’ll pack it too much if it’s wet). Then keep the area watered until the seedlings become established.”

Of course, if none of the above works, you can always cut out that piece and replace it with a couple of rolls of sod from any Calgary landscape supply store or garden centre.

When it comes to lawn care, shaded areas are often a challenge for many home-owners in Calgary.

Residential landscapers should keep an extra lookout for areas that sit up against your house or under large canopy trees as they face an added challenge when trying to grow appropriately.

For our sod installation services, we never recommend lawn installations on the 4’-8’ side yards between homes because they almost never make it due to lack of sun. This applies to some of the new neighbourhoods being built – mainly in the Northwest and South East of Calgary – in particular.

Your lawn needs a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight so it can prosper.

Having grass in the areas against your house or fence is also a bad idea because the heat that comes off those materials tend to burn the grass underneath them.

The best solution is to have decorative rock or mulch along the side yards and garden beds against your fence or house – this will also be lower maintenance over time. Let the grass be in the middle, and your planting beds are your borders.

If you follow these critical Calgary lawn care tips, you’ll be on your way to a healthier, long-lasting lawn.

As trusted landscapers in Calgary, Tazscapes can help you save big bucks on the perfect lawn!

It’s hard to come across great backyard landscaping ideas for a small-sized yard. It’s always nice when I can walk into a backyard, and there is ample amount of space for a landscaping proposal, but that’s not always the case.

I have come across many clients who have a small backyard but feel very limited in their options. Often times, they have no landscaping ideas for their small space and feel that their dreams of outdoor living is non-existent.

On the contrary. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

It’s challenging – I’m not going to lie – but as a landscape design expert with academic training and years of experience, I feel confident enough to go over 5 tips with you should keep in mind when you’re trying to design easy landscaping ideas for your small Calgary yard.

Idea #1: Choose your destination and make it cozy!

In Calgary landscape design, one concept I’ve always stressed is the importance of choosing your destination points. These points are often categorized as either cooking, dining, lounging, or play.

In a small backyard space, it may be difficult to fit all of them in so you may have to choose just one.

Ask yourself: above all else, what do you like to do outdoors? It could be as simple prioritizing an open green space because you value giving your kids the ability to run around. Perhaps you just need a small space for the occasional weekend fire pit party. Whatever the case, you need to choose a limited number of destination points and get ready to make it your cozy nook.

By bringing a private intimate feel to your small backyard landscaping design, you create an escape for yourself from the daily rat-race. This makes that destination point so much more meaningful. You’ve now connected an emotion to your little alcove.

Tip #2: Think vertically when it comes to small backyard landscaping.

Many people often look at Calgary landscaping in a horizontal plane or axis. Think about it. If you had ample space in your backyard, you would say something like: “Patio here, garden beds on the left, grass on the right,” and so on and so forth.

You are thinking about landscape design in a horizontal manner – there is nothing wrong with that, I do the same. But when you’re dealing with smaller spaces, the horizontality of the space can be somewhat limited. Therefore, we have to start thinking outside the box and look at the space on a vertical axis.

Softscaping

Columnar trees are best. Swedish Columnar Aspens, and if you’re wanting a year-round coniferous option, Columnar Blue Spruce is a great choice. In terms of shrubs, I always recommend Karl Foerster Grass because they are very hardy, look wonderful year round, and are columnar.

Hardscaping

Landscaping structures like pergolas, privacy screens and arbour scan do wonders for your yard. The main thing they do is draw your eyes up, and anytime your eye links the landscape with the sky, it’s a wonderful feeling. Trust me, look at the sky next time you’re looking at a beautifully done landscape, it invokes an internal emotion.

Tip #3: Choose a focal point: Hardscape or Softscape

You have to make a decision. Do you want more hardscaping or more softscaping in your backyard?

Sure, technically you can do both, but (depending on size) ultimately one will dominate the space. Your destination point will dictate that answer.

For example, if you want a lounging area, chances are that you are going to have a deck or a patio dominate the space. As the rule of thumb goes: 12’ x 12’ for comfortable seating whether it’s cooking, dining or lounging around a fire pit.

Conversely, if your destination point is to play, you have to decide if you want your kids being able to play sports (which sport?), or if you’re investing in a play structure. This will dictate the overall soft landscaping required in your small backyard.

Make a choice, stick by it. That destination point – hardscape or softscape – is the focal point in your small backyard landscaping design.

Tip #4: Form follows function

All design fields, both interior and exterior, have always adhered to a famous concept propounded by American architect Louis Sullivan. He said that projects should first intend the function of the space, then let the form follow from it.

You need to know what you’re designing before you begin to put forms to it, whether they’re rectilinear or curvilinear. Spacing and scale becomes paramount, and even more so when trying to propose a landscape design for small spaces because the room for error is so little.

This ties into our first tip: your destination point. Understand what you need the space for, then allow that to determine what size you’ll need it to be.

Once you establish the type (dining?) and size (12’ x 12’?) of that destination, you can begin to form it according to your taste in conjunction with the overall space you have to work with. Some like the rectilinear shape while others prefer the curvilinear shape.

I personally look at the lay of the land, the existing form of the house and allow those elements to form my form (no pun intended!).

Tip #5: Color and texture

So, you know you want a patio space as a dominant destination point in your small backyard. You also know you need ample space to entertain your friends on a Saturday night around the fire pit.

You’ve measured things out and realize you have the space for it, and have created a beautiful form that compliments the house for your space.

All done right? Wrong.

There is one last step: selecting the right product and color that will yield particular textures to your landscape. This, in turn, can make or break the landscape design of your small backyard.

Often times, Calgary landscapers tend to go with a small handful of paving stones to sell to the client. This is for a couple reasons: one, the cost is cheap. Two, it’s easy to install.

You need to fully explore different options (and grab samples if you have to) so you can try to match the house.

As a landscape design expert in Calgary, I always encourage my clients to understand the patterns and textures that will be created with the selected products. I want them to understand the color options they clients have, and then show them how my landscape design proposal will accentuate their small backyard.

Proposing viable landscape design ideas for small backyards or small spaces isn’t difficult. It just requires a little more ‘out of the box’ thinking and finding landscaping companies in Calgary that can do this.

Give Tazscapes a call and see if we can design your small yard into your own personal oasis!

Artificial turf, artificial grass, synthetic lawn– call it what you want, but fake grass landscaping is starting to take over Calgary!

People are tired of mowing their lawns on a regular basis only to see dull, yellow-patched grass that makes their whole yard look awful. Let’s face it, not everyone has the time or the passion for regular lawn care maintenance.

Enter artificial grass in Calgary. Not only is it zero maintenance, but it keeps your yard looking beautiful and lusciously green year-round. If you have children or pets, this is a great option. But as with anything that makes your life easier, it can be expensive.

Nonetheless, it’s a great investment for your property. Besides the aesthetic value it can give your home, people appreciate not having to water or mow their lawns.

Within the artificial turf realm, you have loads of options. There are many textures and grades that you can choose from depending on your personal needs.

Let’s take a deeper look.

History

The concept of fake grass originally came from a textile company, but the product was meant to be used for carpeting.

Today, new products have been tested and chemically treated so they are resistant to ultraviolet rays of the sun. This makes them wear-and-tear resilient against pet and children foot traffic, and fully applicable for residential Calgary landscaping.

Materiality

There are fibers in the synthetic turf, called blades, which essentially make up the “grass”.

Made from elements like nylon or polypropylene, these are manufactured in different ways for different applications to mimic fake grass.

Installation

When proposing artificial turf to Calgary residents, my clients often wonder why it’s so expensive. In their mind, we’re simply “rolling out carpet”, similar to sod.

The difference that many fail to realize is that unlike sod, proper Calgary landscaping practices require a solid 6”-8” aggregate base. This is more like the process involved in paving stones or concrete curbing. Excavation and grading to ensure proper drainage also allows it to become synthetic perfect turf.

Applications

I often recommend artificial turf in Calgary yards where home-owners who want luscious green lawn without worrying about maintenance.

In addition, clients who have pets that tend to make a mess benefit significantly from fake grass– even if it’s for a small area like a dog-run.

The most popular reason clients select fake grass is for putting greens.

Putting greens in Calgary have become a great landscape feature. Home-owners can finally have a place to ‘play’ as they entertain their guests. Golfers also now have the ability to practice their game in the convenience of their own backyard.

I will really try to push the fake grass concept to clients in my landscape design proposal if I feel that their lawn area is small or needs grass installed. Think about it, do you really want to bring out a lawn mower or hose for an 80, or even 150 square foot area?

If so, what are the chances it will be as green and appear as healthy as the synthetic form I propose?

However, there is also something about natural grass that some clients prefer: the “connection to earth”, if you will.

I honestly can’t say if playing in natural grass or mud – as doctors tell us – built my immune system at an early age.

The choice is yours nonetheless. The benefits are there!

If you’re looking to keep your lawn a maintenance-free one and aesthetically superior, I would highly recommend it. On the other hand, if budget is a concern and/or if you enjoy the natural look and feel of the outdoors, stick to regular sod.

At Tazscapes, we have expertly installed loads of artificial turf in Calgary, and can help you with yours.

Creating the Perfect Lawn for Landscaping

Add Compost

Apply Mulch

Watering Consistently

Use Fertilizer

Weeding Out Weeds

The Cost of Landscaping in Calgary

The Value in Landscaping

Landscaping Cost Factors

A Landscaping Quote

How ridiculously boring.

Instead, they can invest that money into their own personal sanctuary.

Project #1: Decked Out Calgary Yard

Project #2: The Garden Bar

Project #3: The Subtle Picturesque Garden

When she showed me the design, I shook my head in disbelief. It just didn’t make any sense.

Project #4: Backyard Beach Resort

Yep, it’s all possible in a backyard water feature.

Outdoor Waterfalls

Ponds

Pondless

Rock Bubblers or Fountains

Outdoor water feature installation

Give us a call today if you are thinking about bringing some sights and sounds of tranquillity to your Calgary backyard!

Tip #1: Location

Tip #2: Scale

Tip #3: Form

Tip #4: Transition

Tip #5: Material

Tip #6: Backyard Landscaping Features

Call Tazscapes Inc today to start brainstorming patio ideas for your backyard in Calgary!

Hardscaping Landscape Maintenance

Paving Stones:

Concrete:

Stone Retaining Walls:

Softscaping

Sod:

Plant Materials:

Natural stone boulder retaining walls are in vogue at the moment.

About Boulders

Designing Retaining Walls with Boulders

Why Natural Stone?

Construction

Before initiating the project, it’s important to check the local laws about the construction of retaining walls.

The next factor that plays a vital role in this construction project is drainage.

The Grass Can Be Greener On Every Side

We always make sure our clients understand the importance of a well-cared-for, healthy lawn.

Mistake #1: Not Mowing Your Lawn Often Enough

Make sure you sharpen your blades every spring, especially before your first cut.

Get Creative

Buy a Trimmer

Mistake #2: Leaving Your Lawn to Dry Out

Once the roots are established, you should infrequently water it, depending on the weather and the health of your lawn.

Mistake #3: Not Fertilizing Your Lawn

There are three major nutrients you should be looking out for: nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium.

Mistake #4: Missing the Issues with Your Calgary Lawn

When it comes to lawn care, shaded areas are often a challenge for many home-owners in Calgary.

Your lawn needs a minimum of 4-6 hours of direct sunlight so it can prosper.

As trusted landscapers in Calgary, Tazscapes can help you save big bucks on the perfect lawn!

On the contrary. Where there’s a will, there’s a way!

Idea #1: Choose your destination and make it cozy!

Tip #2: Think vertically when it comes to small backyard landscaping.

Softscaping

Hardscaping

Tip #3: Choose a focal point: Hardscape or Softscape

Tip #4: Form follows function

Tip #5: Color and texture

All done right? Wrong.

History

Materiality

Installation

Applications

The most popular reason clients select fake grass is for putting greens.

The choice is yours nonetheless. The benefits are there!

Feel free to give us a call today for your new maintenance-free lawn!