A Swimming Pool Increases Your Home's Value In Houston

As the holiday season comes to an end and we begin a new year, ask yourself: "Did I get everything I wanted?"

In the holiday classic, 'National Lampoons Christmas Vacation', Chevy Chase's character, Clark Griswold, longs for a swimming pool. He hopes his Christmas bonus will be the influx of cash to put in a pool. As you know he didn't get that bonus--not until the third act. But he dreamt what we all have while sitting in our offices or cubicles. A crystal clear swimming pool on a hot day. And like Clark, we envision our friends and neighbors taking full advantage of our heavenly oasis. (Minus cousin Eddie of course).

Clark's fantasy needn't be a fantasy anymore. For much less than you might think, you could own your very own pool.

There are a lot of recreational expenses we shell out and see no return on. As a matter of fact we lose money on all of our recreational items. R.V.'s, dirt bikes, jet skis, boats, etc. But a swimming pool is an investment. A swimming pool will increase your home's value. A dirt bike? Not so much. An R.V. will open up the road for you, but how much are you willing to shell out on gas? When you drive it off the lot you've already lost your initial investment. When a backhoe removes the first piece of earth to begin installing a pool, your investment begins it's ascent.

The above mentioned recreational activities: A boat, R.V, etc. are all comparable prices to a swimming pool. The only difference is one makes you money and makes you the coolest family on the block, the other; breaks down, guzzles gas, and bleeds your wallet. The choice is simple. Follow your inner-Clark. Get a pool. Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com for more information.

Year Round Plants That Improve The Look Of Your Property In Houston

Are you looking to add plants to your property that provide interest all year round? A quick lift can be provided with a few of these species. Below we've highlighted three types of flora that can bring appeal to your property:

Euryops pectinatus (Golden Daisy Bush) is a bright yellow flowering evergreen shrub that will bloom all 12 months, right on through the winter. It needs a warm, sunny spot and three to four feet of space to grow. It is especially nice to see when so many other plants are dormant.

Cercis occidentals (Western Redbud) is a small tree, that provides appeal all year. In spring it is covered with magenta flowers, in the summer bright blue-green foliage combine with magenta seed pods, in the fall the tree turns light yellow or red and in winter the bare branches are beautifully patterned and especially pretty when lit at night. The Western Redbud thrives in a dry location after regular waterings for the first two years.

Scaevola (Mauve Clusters or Blue Fan Flower) Its tight growth and low mounding habit really keeps the weeds out. Its rich small evergreen leaves display a mass of tiny purple flowers January through November. Hollies come in so many varieties as ground covers, shrubs and also trees. Most are evergreen, rich in color with bright red berries which are wonderful for decorating your home during the holidays.

For more information about plants that can add charm to your yard year round, contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com.

How Much Does It Cost To Install A Putting Green?

Have you ever thought about having a putting green right in your own backyard? Your very own putting green will enhance your backyard and your handicap. Think about it. You're out on the golf course and your friends notice how much your game has improved. You let them in on a little secret. Invite them over and show them you're not kidding around!

A backyard putting green will not only increase your bragging rights on the links but it will also be a delight for your family and friends. Add some additional outdoor lighting and you're on for night golfing. It's also great for those times when you simply can't get away to the golf course.

With a synthetic putting green, you needn't worry about dead spots, mud, and debris building up. Synthetic putting greens look real and are low maintenance. With Houston's weather you can it anytime of the year.

If you are interested in vastly improving your backyard and your short game, give us a call. Passionate golfers and those who simply love the outdoors will appreciate this low maintenance, eco-friendly feature. Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 for more information on installing a synthetic putting green in your backyard.

Laird Landscaping's Frequently Asked Questions

Will you come to my house for a free consultation?
We charge a $65 consultation fee. One of our Landscape Architects/Designers will come to your home, meet with you, listen to your desires/needs, walks the site, makes recommendations, and will often draw a sketch to scale. If you choose to have Laird Landscaping, Inc. do your work, the $65 will apply towards the overall cost of the project.

Do I have to pay the full cost up-front?
Typically we request 1/3 down and the net amount upon completion.

When is the best time of the year for landscaping?
We are fortunate to be living in the Gulf Coast area, which is similar to living in a greenhouse. As a result, we can do landscaping year-round without any problem.

Can we do the project in phases?
One of the advantages of having a landscape design is that it gives the client the ability to do phases of the project as the time and money become available.

Will you create a design for me, then allow me to implement the work myself?
Yes, we will be happy to work with a client in this way.

Can we have a low-maintenance landscape?
Our normal mindset in designing a landscape is for low-maintenance. We can create beautiful environments without having to be forced into a high-maintenance situation.

Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com for more information.

Contact A Houston, Texas Landscape Architect

Your backyard could always use a pick me up. Do you have a standard plot of land with minimal plant life? Or do you have an unkempt jungle with a canopy of foliage? Do you think your backyard's potential is fully maximized and you couldn't possibly do anything else to it? If you answered yes to any of the above, then we can help you.

Let's start with the "sparse yard." We've all seen it. A house that sits on a lot at the end of the block. People often wonder if anyone lives there which in turn could place the people who do live there at higher risk of being intruded on if someone were to think it's a vacant property. Not to say that landscaping will save your life, but it will certainly add privacy and there would be no question as to the home's occupancy. A lot of times a yard is sparse because people feel overwhelmed starting with nothing. It really isn't such a bad thing. Think of it as a blank canvas. We'll come in and create something out of nothing. In the case of a sparse yard, your yard is our oyster. We will turn your barren landscape into an oasis that will improve your home's value and your peace of mind.

Is your house the one kids are afraid to walk past? The unkempt jungle, that's the house that urban legends are made of. Tales of boogie men and critters taking up residence within the thickets. That's where we come in. What you may not realize is under all that chaotic botany lies beauty. When plants are overgrown it's a sign that conditions are good. We will slay the chaos and use our expertise to reveal the yard you never knew you had.

To the guy that thinks his yard is all that and can't be improved. How's your golf game buddy? Practice at home much? No? You don't have your very own putting green in your backyard? Well, that's where we come in! Improve your short game, enhance your lawn, impress your friends. Get your very own synthetic putting green in your backyard. It's weather proof, low maintenance and looks natural.

We are eager to service the needs of all! Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com for more information.

The Different Materials To Choose From When Having A Patio Professionally Installed

Cracked Stamped Concrete

Are you considering having a patio professionally installed? There are many different types of materials to choose from, however they don't all render the same results. Many websites list stamped concrete as a low cost alternative to individual brick pavers, but like the saying goes, "You get what you pay for." Even though stamped concrete achieves a look slightly similar to brick pavers, inferior durability and the level of difficulty when it comes to making repairs has a huge impact on the actual cost in the long run.

One of the most common materials for driveways, walkways, and patios is concrete. It's relatively low cost per square foot makes it an initially inexpensive option for homeowners. Not if, but when the concrete begins to crack is when the long term cost exceeds the cost of installing beautiful brick or stone pavers. Many cracks are a result of shrinkage, heavy loads, settlement, and weather changes. Once these cracks occur they're difficult to repair with an exact color match and the results are often unsightly.

Clay Brick Pavers

A homeowner will find none of these issues with individual pavers. Because each paver is individual, the natural joints between each brick will give with expansion, contraction, weight, and pressure, eliminating cracking associated with concrete pavement. Another great advantage to pavers is that they don't fade. In the event a paver does need to be replaced, the damaged one can be removed and a new individual paver can be put in its place without any color difference. Additionally, one of our professionals can create a unique custom design with pavers that compliments the architectural style of any home, unlike with basic concrete.

For more information on the benefits of using individual pavers for your driveway, walkway, or patio, contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com.

Update Your Garden For Fall

Violas

Even though you can't tell by our weather, fall is just around the corner. Throughout the rest of the country the air is getting cooler and the leaves are on the cusp of changing. While Houston's fall can sometimes feel more like summer, it doesn't have to lack in vibrant autumn shades of color.

Consider updating your container gardens with lush ornamental grasses, gorgeous marigold mums or fiery orange zinnia flowers. One benefit of zinnias is that they look great cut in a vase. Celosia are also a vibrant addition to container gardens and they happen to come in striking sunset colors. Dianthus, snapdragons, and violas are also great options for your container garden. Dianthus will attract butterflies with their white, pink, or red flowers. Snapdragons come in a wide array of colors. They can add height to your garden and look great cut in a vase. Violas come in white, orange, burgundy, yellow and purple. They can bloom all winter in southern parts of the country. 

It's that time of year again when nurseries are getting in their shipment of pumpkins. Have you ever seen a fairytale pumpkin? They are gorgeous and vary in color from white to soft orange to pale green. Give your yard some fall flair with the addition of these whimsical pumpkins. 

Another easy fall feature you can add to your home is an autumn inspired wreath. Whether store bought or DIY, made out of real or synthetic materials, a wreath is sure to add a touch of warmth and curb appeal to your home.

For more ideas on how to incorporate fall inspired flora into your landscaping, contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795.

Snapdragon

Mums

Dianthus

Zinnia

Celosia

Ornamental Grass

Laird Landscaping's Frequently Asked Questions

Will you come to my house for a free consultation?
We charge a $65 consultation fee. One of our Landscape Architects/Designers will come to your home, meet with you, listen to your desires/needs, walks the site, makes recommendations, and will often draw a sketch to scale. If you choose to have Laird Landscaping, Inc. do your work, the $65 will apply towards the overall cost of the project.

Do I have to pay the full cost up-front?
Typically we request 1/3 down and the net amount upon completion.

When is the best time of the year for landscaping?
We are fortunate to be living in the Gulf Coast area, which is similar to living in a greenhouse. As a result, we can do landscaping year-round without any problem.

Can we do the project in phases?
One of the advantages of having a landscape design is that it gives the client the ability to do phases of the project as the time and money become available.

Will you create a design for me, then allow me to implement the work myself?
Yes, we will be happy to work with a client in this way.

Can we have a low-maintenance landscape?
Our normal mindset in designing a landscape is for low-maintenance. We can create beautiful environments without having to be forced into a high-maintenance situation.

Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com for more information.

Adding Beautiful Potted Plants To Landscaping

Thoughtfully chosen decorative pots can add a unique finish to any landscaped yard, patio, or indoor area. Their varying sizes, textures, and finishes create eye catching focal points. Grouped strategically, potted plants can add pops of color while creating an ambient theme.

Potted plants can be an integral part of the landscape, especially when it brings out elements of design in a home or hardscaping. Ornate terracotta pots can bring out features in driveway pavers, while colorfully glazed pots can showcase a home's accent color.

Another great aspect of planters is that they are mobile. Pots can be easy to move with if you live in a rental and don't want to leave your greenery behind. Maybe you've developed sentimental feelings for the fern you've kept alive since college. Take your old friend from place to place with you. If you live in an apartment, especially one above the first floor, planters are detrimental to bringing the outdoors right outside your door.

Planters also help keep aggressive plants and herbs, such as mint, contained. While useful and beautiful, some flora can overtake an area rather quickly, drowning out other plants.

Did you know that...

• Potted plants clean indoor air by absorbing toxins from the environment? 
• Indoor plants can create a cooling effect in the home or office?
• Plants filter out dust and debris?
• Plants can remove dioxide and monoxide, replacing it with oxygen? 
• The presence of live potted plants in an office help reduce fatigue, stress, dry throats, headaches, coughs, and dry skin among workers? 

Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 for more information on adding beautifully potted plants to your landscaping, home, or office.

All About Laird Landscaping

Laird Landscaping, Inc. was founded in September 1982 by Otis V. Laird, Jr. Otis is a graduate of Texas Tech University and a registered landscape architect with the state of Texas. After working seven years as a landscape architect/salesman for a Houston based nursery, he decided to start his own company and has been pleasing clients now for over 25 years.

Laird Landscaping, Inc. has been named one of the Top Ten Landscaping companies in Houston by the Houston Business Journal. Otis has also been a member of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) since 1985, and the Texas Nursery & Landscape Association (TNLA) since 1985. In 2000, TNLA presented Laird Landscaping, Inc. with a Texas Excellence in Landscaping Distinction Award in the Residential Design/Build category.





Mr. Laird does all of the sales and designs himself, and he has a five-man crew that carries out the installation process. The crew is supervised by Otis V. Laird, III (Trey), Mr. Laird's son. Trey is also a graduate of Texas Tech University with a degree in Landscape Architecture. The foreman and remaining crewmembers have all been with the company for up to ten years.

Our attention to detail and creating a unique and ideal environment for each of our clients is what sets us apart from the competition. Whether it be a manicured front yard, a free flowing tropical paradise in your backyard, or even a new fence, we are the company for you. Please contact us to set up a consultation today at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com.

Install A Pond Or Waterfall In Your Back Yard

Water features add movement, texture, and sound to your landscaping designs. Installing a water feature in your yard is the perfect way to complement your beautifully landscaped property while providing some unexpected benefits.

Many of us work long hours making it impossible to get away and enjoy nature. Adding a water element, such as a waterfall or a pond, creates a peaceful ambiance in your own back yard. Let the stress from the day disappear as you listen to the sound of cascading water right from the comfort of your patio.

Make your landscaping unique by including a water feature in your yard. Every aspect of your water feature is specially designed for your space. Whether your yard is small or large, there is a water element that will work for you. Water features can also turn an unused portion of your yard into a stunning focal point.

Adding a water feature can attract a plethora of wildlife. Shortly after installation you'll begin to notice an increase in wildlife on your property. Visiting birds and dragonflies will add hours of entertainment and learning opportunities for you and your family.

Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 for more information on designing and installing a water feature for your backyard.

Installing A Synthetic Putting Green Can Result In A Better Golf Game

Whether you are an avid golfer or you like to knock a few balls around as a hobby, installing a synthetic putting green can be a great way to enjoy one of your favorite sports in your own back yard.

Those who love golf love it a lot. However, it can be difficult to find the time to play when everyday demands get in the way. This is why installing synthetic putting greens is the perfect solution when part of your very own backyard oasis.

There are many benefits to installing a synthetic putting green. Some include:

Synthetic putting greens are environmentally conscious. Synthetic putting greens don't require any water, which is especially important since Houston can be very dry. There is no need to mow, so polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, ozone precursors, and carbon dioxide isn't emitted into the air. And there is no need for fertilizers, pesticides, and other harsh chemicals.

Synthetic putting greens are low maintenance. Put your mower and lawn tools away because maintaining your new putting green is easy! The only maintenance required is keeping the surface free of debris that could become lodged within the green. Sweeping the surface several times a year should be sufficient.

Installing a synthetic putting green can result in a better golf game. The key to success in the game of golf is practice and repetition. Being able to simply walk out of your back door and have instant access to a putting green any time you want will allow you to hone your skill, giving you an advantage on the course.

Synthetic putting greens looks beautiful year round. Synthetic grass has made vast improvements in recent decades. If you feel like you haven't seen synthetic grass since the days of The Brady Bunch, it's not because you haven't seen it, synthetic grass technology has made strides so it no longer looks synthetic.

Installing a synthetic putting green can offer a return on your investment. From passionate golfers to those who simply love the outdoors will appreciate this low maintenance, eco-friendly feature when it comes to purchasing a home.

Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 for more information on installing a synthetic putting green in your backyard.

Have Your Own Private Pool Professionally Installed In Houston

How many times have you come home from a friend's pool party and declared, "We should get a pool!" There's no better way to cool off during Houston's hot summer season than in the comfort of your own backyard.

Some of the benefits to having your own private pool professionally installed would be for outdoor fun and exercise. Dragging the kids, towels, floaties, sunscreen, and cooler down to a friend's house or community pool can be a thing of the past. Imagine walking out of your patio, into your beautifully landscaped yard, and enjoying family time in your own personal space.

Maybe water exercises have been prescribed by your doctor for maintaining your health. Swimming is a wonderful way to exercise and is much easier on the body than running or other sports. Pools also have therapeutic attributes and are great for relaxing. Whether you're in your pool or enjoying a meal by it, adding a body of water to your landscaping adds a certain ambiance that can leave your home feeling more like a resort.

Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 for more information on installing a pool in your backyard.

What Does Hardscaping Add To Landscaping?

Is your beautifully landscaped yard lacking something? Imagine enjoying a morning cup of coffee on your patio, sitting around your fire pit on a chilly night, or rather than trudging through the grass to access your yard, you're now able to use a beautifully paved path. 

No matter the style of your home, there is a paver or natural stone that will blend naturally with it. A well built hardscape is timeless and will add value to your home without demanding the level of care a lawn requires. Hardscapes include walkways, walls, fences, gazebos, fountains, and any non-living element. When a hardscape is installed it adds a functional feature to a landscape while creating a visually appealing, low maintenance area.

The benefits of hardscaping include:

• Improves accessibility to other outdoor areas.
• Excellent for homes in arid regions, like Houston, 
• Low maintenance for people with a busy schedule and who don't have the time to maintain a yard. 
• Low maintenance for people who aren't blessed with a "green thumb." 
• Creates areas of interest, such as an outdoor kitchen, play area, zen garden, etc. 
• Hardscapes serve as the framework for softscape elements. 
• Increase in property value.
• Hardscapes lessen the likelihood of property erosion.

A hardscape provides functionality and beauty to any Houston yard. It creates an aesthetically appealing area for recreation and relaxation, and substantially increases the value of a homeowner's property. Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 for enjoyment of your hardscaped yard for years to come. 

 

Installing Outdoor Lighting In Houston

Installing outdoor lighting is a simple way to add beauty and functionality, all while increasing the value of your home. Outdoor lighting adds ambiance and safety while illuminating your beautifully landscaped yard.

Expand your living area by installing landscape lighting to your property. By adding comfortable lighting to a patio area, you can make this area a place of relaxation after dark. Enjoy evening barbecues that last well into the night with an enlightened outdoor kitchen. With outdoor lighting, your yard can become an entertainment venue, or a place to unwind. Lighting can also accentuate the architectural features of your home, such as stone or brick, while creating curb appeal.

Installing lighting can also make your yard more safe. Don't risk causing an injury by stumbling around in the dark. Pools, sidewalks, steps, toys, and low hanging plants can be made visible and less hazardous at night with soft outdoor lighting. The more lights, the safer your outdoor area can be.

A well lit yard can also exude a feeling of security. By installing lights with motion detectors, a dark landscape can be filled with bright light when someone enters the property. This can keep your family safe as well as deter would-be criminals from trespassing. It can also be much harder for someone to hide in a yard with lighting.

There are a variety of options when choosing outdoor lighting designs. While working with our professionals, we will discuss your specific outdoor lighting needs and desires.

To add eye-appeal and function to your outdoor area contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 to shed a whole new light on your landscaping for years to come.

The Benefits Of Installing A Sprinkler System In Houston

Maintaining a beautiful yard does not mean you have to spend hours working on it. Protect your landscaping investment by professionally installing a sprinkler system in your home.

One of the benefits of installing a sprinkler system is that it can be set on a timer so the time of day your landscaping is watered, as well as the duration, can all be programed. Forgetting to water your lawn, forgetting to turn the hose off, or not having the time to do it will now be a thing of the past.

Along with saving you time, today's sprinkler systems conserve water while saving money. The system will distribute the right amount of water in specified areas, avoiding runoff waste and over/under watering.

Installing a sprinkler system also supports your home's value and marketability. Your sprinkler system will maintain the curb appeal of your home by keeping your plants and lawn looking healthy and lush. Attractive landscaping paired with the ease of maintenance will all play into the emotion of someone shopping for a home.

Stop having to babysit your hose! Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 for more information on your home's sprinkler system needs.

Landscaping Your Yard May Reduce Your Energy Cost

By landscaping your yard, not only are you creating a useful outdoor space while enhancing your home's appearance, landscaping can also assist in keeping your indoors comfortable while reducing your energy cost. Through the thoughtful selection and placement of vines, trees, and shrubs you will begin using less energy and start saving money on your utility bills.

Despite having a properly insulated home, a great amount of unwanted heat in the home can result from sunlight beaming through the windows. Additional heat can also be a byproduct of sunlight absorbed by the roof. There are many types of trees that effectively block the sun from your home. Furthermore, small trees and shrubs placed close to your home's foundation will provide shade as well as added insulation.

Your landscaping can also provide a cooler outdoor area for you and your family to enjoy. By providing shade, especially in paved areas, you'll prevent those surfaces from absorbing heat throughout the day and emitting it during the evening and night.

Landscaping can provide shade for your vehicle where there previously may have been none. People in the Midwest may have to preheat their cars, but those of us in the Southwest have to wait for our cars to cool down before we can even sit in our seats. Imagine being able to easily sit in your car during the summer and actually being able to grasp the steering wheel. Besides that, you will be preserving the life of your vehicle's interior by not exposing it to our hot Houston sun day in and out.

Help prevent your neighborhood from becoming an "urban heat island" by planting trees and other landscaping. To plan your energy efficient landscape, contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281.578.2795.

Landscaping For Small Businesses

Small businesses are always looking to get an edge on the competition. So many business owners focus on the interior of their business, but don't give much thought to the building's exterior. Sure, a lawn crew may come by once a week with a leaf blower. Maybe they even pluck a few weeds and trim back a tree. But do they bring vibrancy and vitality to your business? Probably not. 

The best thing you can do is to sit down with a professional landscaper and map out a vision. What do you want your customers to see? Do you have a bed of gravel or do you have a luscious greenbelt wrapping around the building aligned with bode trees and a variety of colorful flowers? Simple elegance goes a long way. Map out something that can be maintained and enjoyed. Customers will literally stop and smell the roses... If you plant them.

Once we have begun work, get pictures of the progress as it ensues. Share them with your customers when you reopen. (Even if you don't have to close your doors during the renovation, a grand reopening is in order!) Be sure to write down the names of your new trees and plants, customers will be inquisitive once they see what you've done with the place. 

We will create a uniquely beautiful and functional environment for your business. We will give your property a fresh new look that will add to the value of your community. Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at (281) 578-2795 for your landscaping needs. 

Tip Of The Month From Houston Area Laird Landscaping

Whether you're putting in a pool, lawn, or garden,
don't forget to fix the drainage first!
Laird Landscaping specializes in drainage systems.
Whatever the problem is, we can fix it!

Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping at 281-578-2795 or online at www.lairdlandscaping.com for more information.

You Never Get A Second Chance To Make A First Impression

When it comes to first impressions in the business world, the best first impression you can give is to look professional. This isn't limited to just our hair and clothing, your business itself should also look the part.

In today's society, we rely on our visual perception to determine how things make us feel. For instance, when selling a home good curb appeal will make the house sell faster than a home with an unkept yard and weeds everywhere. Good curb appeal will even increase the value of the property and should be seen as an investment. This also holds true for your business.

Drive around your community and think about the businesses that catch your eye...in a good and bad way. Are you more inclined to visit a business with garbage and dead trees surrounding the building? Probably not. This gives off the perception that the business is neglectful and does not care about what type of impression they make. A business with a well manicured landscape will make clients feel as though your business is a pleasant and safe place to visit. This shows your customers that you take pride in the services you provide.

If you are opening a new business, or if you are a family owned business that has been around for generations, it's never too late to invest in a well manicured landscape. Contact Houston area Laird Landscaping to find out how you can boost your business' curb appeal at (281)578-2795. Because you never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Professional Landscaping Services

It’s time to consider having your garden expertly serviced by the professionals at Laird Landscaping. Allow us to spruce up your garden and make it ready for the next season. Here are some of the things that our teams of landscaping specialists can do for you:

• Seasonal Color: Planting seasonal color is one of the best ways to bring pizzazz into the garden. By using colorful flowers that will last all season long, we can make your landscape standout in the neighborhood.
• Containers: Bring an added element into your yard with a well placed container full of colorful and texturally appealing plants.
• Trimming: Shrubs and ornamental trees experience a lot of growth. We can trim them and bring them back into their intended shape and size. We can also trim the larger trees as well raise them above your house, fence, walkways, driveways and streets. Removal of old, dead, or unwanted trees is something else we can take care of.
• New Planting: We live in a climate that allows for planting to effectively be done year round. So, if you have been thinking about adding to your existing landscaping, now is an excellent time to do so. Call to set up a time to consult with one of our qualified designers to create the perfect addition.
• Drainage Systems: Laird Landscaping is well known for our high quality design and expert installation of drainage systems. A well functioning system can help protect your house and property from erosion, foundation problems, mold, algae, fungus, not to mention termites and mosquitos. We can also service your existing system by cleaning out the catch basins and slow moving drains.
• Outdoor Lighting: Lighting systems in a landscape enhance the natural beauty of your yard as well as provide security. We can design and install a new system for you or service an existing one.
• Fertilization : As a best practice, we only use 100% environmentally friendly, organic fertilizers. Allow us to rejuvenate the plants in your landscape with a fresh application of fertilizer.
• Irrigation Systems Audits: This service includes checking the entire system and making sure it is running effectively. We can check each zone, straighten nozzles, and inspect valves , replacing them if necessary. We will also make sure the proper start and stop times are programmed into to timer so that the right amount of water is being put onto the landscape.
• Mulch: Perhaps you’re needing to just get a new application of mulch in the garden. A good layer of mulch will add eye appeal as well as help to retain moisture and add in reducing weeds.

Whatever the landscaping need, call the professionals at Laird Landscaping and allow us to take care of them for you.

Winter Tips From Laird Landscaping

The winter months can be harsh on all living creatures. Many times critters and insects will seek refuge in our homes to escape the elements. They can be a nuisance as well as a danger to our houseplants.

• There are all sorts of nasty little bugs loitering around our homes in the winter months. Common insects include house flies, squash bugs, and multi-colored Asian ladybugs. As you come across them, vacuum them up. Don't squish them. They can stain and will stink.
• Don't store firewood in the house. Go collect it as needed from the outdoors. It can be a haven for destructive bugs such as termites. 
• Bathe your pets regularly. Dogs and cats are perfect vessels for all sorts of destructive insects to hitch a ride on only to be ushered into your house to nosh on your prized poinsettias. 
• Keep your indoor plants moist. As the weather is colder, you can wait longer between waterings but continue to use the same amount.
• Water isn't absorbed as quickly in the winter months and you don't need stagnant water. You're just providing a watering hole for insects.
• Use fly traps in rooms where you keep houseplants. Clumsy little fruit flies will fly right into these traps and will prevent your houseplants from getting grazed upon. There's nothing more annoying then seeing those little bite marks on leaves.

For more information on how to prevent your precious plants from becoming a little bug's Christmas dinner, contact Houston area Laird Landscaping.

Winter Gardening Checklist

Planning:
- Take digital photos, draw diagrams, and make notes of your garden.
- Take inventory of what types and what quantities are needed for your garden
- Start to order seeds online or in person.

Chores and Maintenance:
- Be sure to tie and support evergreen shrubs to avoid breakage.
- Protect trees from mice damage with mesh trunk guards.
- Protect shrubs from critters and pests with burlap or netting.
- Keep bird feeders filled throughout winter. Birds will keep the bugs away!

Pruning/Fertilizing:
- For a decorative idea, prune evergreen branches to use in holiday decorating.
- Continue to rejuvenate overgrown shrubs as weather permits.
- Keep a newly bought Christmas tree in a bucket of water in a cool area.
- For maximum life and enjoyment; set up your Christmas tree in a reservoir stand. Cut a slant about 1" above existing cut for optimum water absorption.
- Sterilize your tree stand with a solution of boiling water, vinegar, and household bleach after use to kill harmful bacteria.
- When returning from the nursery, wrap your houseplants up to protect them from the winter elements until you get them in the house.
- Give your houseplants as much light as possible as the days grow shorter
- Don't fertilize indoor plants until spring
- Provide houseplants with increased humidity; keep a spray bottle handy and mist often--or place plants over a tray of moist pebbles.

For more information on winter lawn care and maintenance, contact Houston area Laird Landscaping.