by Mainscape Landscaping Company | Dec 8, 2023 | General Environmental
At Mainscape, our purpose statement encourages team members to have an impact on their community. One part of that is through company events, where we get together to serve a charitable organization or work to better our community. A second equal component is for our team members to be involved in the lives of others outside work, giving their time and resources to impact their neighbors.
The holiday season is in full swing now, and I find it easy to get caught up in all the activities and lose sight of essential truths. Our family celebrates Christmas, the birth of Jesus, and I am always reminded of the commandment he gave to the leaders of his time, which was to love your neighbor as yourself–the most important thing to do, second only to loving God. In many ways, the holiday season encourages us to be thankful and to share with others. The recent “Giving Tuesday” is an excellent example of donating financial resources to charities and not-for-profit organizations. However, the busyness of the holiday season can often distract us from simply spending time with someone in need.
Reflecting on the past year, I am struck by the numerous challenges that have arisen both in my personal sphere of influence and on a global scale. It is clear that there are many needs. Consistently, difficult situations occur each year. Please take one moment this month to set aside everything else you are doing and pay full attention to a neighbor in need. Our founder reminds us that people want to be needed, wanted, loved, and appreciated. There is no better way to convey this than through a personal conversation – sharing words of encouragement with another human being. Put the phone away, turn off the TV, and lock in to ensure that they know their needs are attended to, and they are encouraged.
Who is my neighbor in this case? It is anyone with whom you personally cross the paths. It may be a family member, people you work with, people you play sports with, or someone right next door. Just look for someone who needs a friend.
I encourage you to find a neighbor this month who needs your time and attention and take a step to live out this truth.
by Mainscape Landscaping Company | Nov 6, 2023 | The Drip
In Florida, we jokingly say there are two seasons: hot and less hot. However, The Farmer’s Almanac recently released its winter 2023-24 forecast with the words, “The BRRR is Back!” It predicts a return to traditional cooler temperatures with a few frosts for the Sunshine State after an unusually warm winter last year.
Certain plants can be heavily damaged or killed by temperatures below 38 degrees. When the temperature drops this low, it’s best to cover delicate plants.
Before covering your plants, always water them first! Frost blankets should NOT touch the plants. Use bamboo, stakes, small pipes, etc. to tent and secure the cloth with fabric pins approximately 12” between each. Keep plants covered until temperatures rise. Ensure plants don’t dry out; check moisture, water (if needed) and replace the fabric. For customers with Mainscape’s water management services, we will ensure proper irrigation and shut down systems as necessary.
Now is the time to make sure you have frost blankets, landscape pins and either bamboo, PVC pipe or similar supplies so you can tent the cloth. If you are unable to locate any frost blankets, use a porous material that will allow light and heat through it during the day. Plastic should be used only as a last resort and should be light in color to avoid damaging the plants.
Many customers own these items and ask their landscape partner to install when the time is appropriate. If you do not own these items, Mainscape can provide them (at a cost), or recommend retailers to purchase them from.
To discuss frost and freeze protection, please contact your Mainscape team today. Advanced planning will guarantee you have what you need when an event undoubtedly arises— or when temperatures inevitably fall.
by Mainscape Landscaping Company | Jul 18, 2023 | The Drip
We previously discussed microclimates and their impact on landscapes. One of the most common trouble areas for homeowners is between homes. Over time, drainage changes cause water to collect from rainfall, irrigation and our air conditioning units.
Because sunlight is often blocked in this area, a microclimate is created, which leads to declining plants and turf. Combine this with additional rainfall during the wet season, and these areas can become muddy messes.
Mainscape works to adjust irrigation systems to reduce the impact of watering cycles. This can include reducing run times, changing application methods and reconfiguring zones. There are other things that homeowners can do to address this issue as well.
- Plant selection: Some homes have landscape plantings along the foundation of the home. Unfortunately, these plants are not always optimal for shade and excess water. Choose plants that perform best in partly to mostly shaded areas. Also, make sure you do not select plants that like “dry feet.” While they may survive, they will not thrive.
- Turf: St. Augustine grass may not be the best option. While St. Augustine requires a good amount of water to survive, it does not perform well in shady areas or like saturation. Installing other plants, rock, pavers or mulch may be a better option for these areas.
- Gutter placement: Re-route gutter downspouts, if possible, to distribute water to sunnier areas of the lawn. This is generally toward the front or back of the home. Unfortunately, installation of gutters places the outflow to the sides of a home. However, re-direction of the water does not require much cost. Flexible downspouts can be purchased at many home improvement stores and quickly installed.
- French Drains: Consider installing French Drains between your homes to quickly collect water and move it to more sunny areas. These should be installed by a capable and reliable company. French Drains require proper grading to ensure water can be moved to the appropriate area. If not installed properly, the drains could cause a bigger issue, but at best, becomes a waste of your resources.
These issues are not exclusive to residential homes. Every property has unintended areas of water collection. If you are experiencing the challenge of microclimates and soggy soil, please reach out to your Mainscape team. We can develop a plan to address the issue and create a great landscape experience for you.
by Mainscape Landscaping Company | Jun 23, 2023 | Landscape Services
Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, understanding the qualities that make a good landscaping company is essential. Here are some key factors that define Mainscape as a great landscaping company.
- Expertise and Experience:
At Mainscape, we have years of industry experience and a highly skilled team of professionals. Our dedicated experts have honed their craft through extensive training and hands-on experience, enabling us to deliver superior results every time. From landscape design and installation to maintenance and enhancement, we have the knowledge and skills to transform any outdoor space into a stunning masterpiece.
- Comprehensive Range of Services:
As a full-service landscaping company, we offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your specific needs. Whether you require regular maintenance, irrigation system installation, hardscaping, or landscape lighting, we have you covered. Our goal is to provide a one-stop solution for all your landscaping requirements, ensuring convenience and efficiency.
- Customized Landscape Designs:
We understand that every property is unique, and your landscape should reflect your personal style and preferences. Our team of talented designers works closely with you to create custom landscape designs that bring your vision to life. We consider factors such as functionality, aesthetics, and environmental sustainability to design outdoor spaces that are both visually appealing and practical.
- Attention to Detail:
At Mainscape, we believe that success lies in the details. We pay meticulous attention to every aspect of our work, ensuring that no detail goes unnoticed. Whether it’s the precise placement of plants, the careful selection of materials, or the seamless integration of different elements, our commitment to perfection is unwavering. We believe that these small details are what elevate a good landscape to an exceptional one.
- Quality Products and Materials:
To deliver long-lasting and visually stunning landscapes, we only work with high-quality products and materials. From plants and trees to pavers and lighting fixtures, we source the finest materials from trusted suppliers. Our dedication to using top-notch products ensures that your landscape will not only look beautiful but also stand the test of time.
- Proactive Communication and Customer Service:
At Mainscape, we prioritize effective communication and excellent customer service. We understand that clear and proactive communication is vital to a successful landscaping project. Our team is readily available to answer your queries, provide regular updates, and address any concerns you may have. Your satisfaction is our utmost priority, and we strive to exceed your expectations at every stage of the process.
Choosing the right landscaping company is crucial to achieving a beautiful and functional outdoor space. At Mainscape, our expertise, experience, comprehensive services, attention to detail, quality products, and exceptional customer service set us apart from the competition. We are passionate about creating landscapes that not only enhance the value of your property but also enrich your life. Trust us to bring your landscaping dreams to life, and experience the Mainscape difference today! Contact us for all your landscaping needs.
by Mainscape Landscaping Company | Jun 21, 2023 | Updates & Announcements
Maria received the Honorary State FFA Degree, the organization’s highest honorary award. The degree recognizes individuals who have greatly contributed to the advancement of agricultural education and provided outstanding service to the FFA program.
Mainscape is privileged to have Maria on our team. We are incredibly proud of her influence and volunteerism, both within our organization and in our community at-large. After learning of this honor, Maria said, “I was totally shocked. I had no clue that this would ever happen. When you volunteer, you do it because you want to — and because you love to do it.” She says she didn’t volunteer for recognition but admits this part is “pretty amazing.” “It is great to see FFA’s youth members have fun learning about horticulture,” she says.
Maria’s passion for training stems from her love of horticulture, education and 35 years of industry experience. Originally from England, she was always outdoors, with activities centered around horses. Upon arriving in Naples, Florida, Maria was unable to fulfill her equestrian passion, so she found a job in a nursery and soon fell in love with Florida’s landscape. Her passion stems from working in nearly every aspect of landscape maintenance, experience which helps her connect with students and team members. “What I teach, I’ve done,” she says. “If I can help somebody overcome some of the same issues I had, then this makes my day.”
Maria has undoubtedly influenced thousands of green industry employees, students and community members. She has an incredible resume, multiple certifications and now an honorary degree. But these are not what defines her. “I just want to help people love it as much as I do, and feel confident about what they do,” she says. “Having confidence just puts us over the edge.”
Mainscape is proud to have such a warm, genuine teammate who works so diligently to cultivate excellence in our industry. Congratulations, Maria!
