Landscape Survival Guide - Comprehensive Landscape Services

Maintaining the beauty and function of the urban landscape.

Landscape Survival Guide

O’Connell Landscape Maintenance TABLE OF CONTENTS Landscape Survival Guide

INTRODUCTION .................................................................... i

IRRIGATION Where our Water Comes From………………………………1 Irrigation Layout ................................................................. 2 Reclaimed Water Irrigation Layout Facts…………………… 3 Backflow Devices ............................................................... 4 Flow Sensors(Optional Item)………………………………… 6 Master Valve (Optional Item) ............................................... 7

Pressure Reducing Valve (Optional Item) ............................ 9 Quick Coupling Valve & Key ............................................... 8 Electric Control Valve ................................................ ……11 Scrubber Valves……………………………………………. 12 Above Grade Irrigation Heads………………………………13 Pop-Up Type Irrigation Heads .......................................... 15 Irrigation Head Descriptions ............................................. 17 Irrigation Controllers ......................................................... 21 Controller Mounting Methods ........................................... 25 Spray Head Coverage……………………………………....27 Solenoids……………………………………………………. 28 Reclaimed Water…………………………………………….29 Drip Irrigation………………………………………………...30

WATER MANAGEMENT Irrigation Consumption Database ..................................... 31 Irrigation Consumption Graph .......................................... 32

DRAINAGE SYSTEM Catch Basins ................................................................... 33 French Drain .................................................................... 34

V-Ditch………………………………………………………..35

O’Connell Landscape Maintenance

TABLE OF CONTENTS Landscape Survival Guide

TREE MAINTENANCE Tree Trimming .................................................................. 36 Topping vs. Pruning ......................................................... 38 Root Barriers .................................................................... 39 Tree Staking .................................................................... 40 Guy Wiring ....................................................................... 41 SHRUB MAINTENANCE Shrub Pruning .................................................................. 42 TURF MAINTENANCE Turf Highlights .................................................................. 44 COLOR Annual and Perennial Color .............................................. 46 FERTILIZER Additional Nutrients .......................................................... 49 LANSCAPE FIRE PREVENTION Resources ....................................................................... 50 LANDSCAPE INSPECTIONS Walk Throughs ................................................................. 51 CONTRACT TIPS ................................................................ 53

i

Welcome to the Landscape Survival Guide

Landscape maintenance has become a major issue to anyone involved with landscaped properties. It is essential that people have a basic working knowledge of landscape issues in order to make informed decisions. This is why O’Connell Landscape Maintenance has developed the Landscape Survival Guide as a reference tool for property managers, association board members, homeowners, developers and architects. It has been our experience that landscape irrigation is the least understood part of the landscape industry. Therefore, you will find that the Landscape Survival Guide has placed an emphasis on irrigation. We intend to pass on the basic principles of landscape irrigation along with the technological advances that are currently available. The other areas covered in this handbook relate to the issues most commonly encountered in the course of landscape maintenance. These topics range from tree trimming and shrub care to walk-throughs and contract specifications. We hope this will be a helpful resource that you can refer to for years to come.


1

IRRIGATION Landscape Survival Guide

Where Our Water Comes From

One of the state's earl iest major water projects, the Los Angeles Aqueduct, suppl ies water to the majority of the Southern Cal i fornia Region. Serving as a wholesale entity for most of the southern Cal i fornia region, the Metropol itan Water Distr ict (MWD) imports water from the Colorado River and State Water Project and supplies it to member agencies and cit ies. Many cit ies also rely on groundwater, especial ly those along the coast. MWD is a water wholesale agency that suppl ies water to water distr icts that serve 18 mil l ion customers in Los Angeles, Orange, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties. About 30 percent of Cal i fornia's total annual water supply comes from groundwater in normal years, and up to 60 percent in drought years. Many cit ies rely on local water projects for al l or a port ion of their suppl ies. These projects typical ly were bui lt and are operated by local publ ic water distr icts, county water departments, city water departments or other special distr icts.


2


I rr igat ion Layout


3


Reclaimed Water Irr igat ion Layout Facts - No hose bibs (water faucets) are al lowed within a reclaimed water system and al l new piping and sprinkler heads are required to be color coded. - Al l quick couplers and boxes must be color coded and MUST have a key lock of some sort. - Al l exist ing piping and irr igation equipment must be labeled appropriately and the proper signage must be posted within the immediate area. - Also, within reclaimed water irr igation systems there are no backflow devices.


4


Backflow Devices The main purpose for a backflow device is to prevent irr igation water from f lowing back into the system that is used for human consumption. Contamination from an irr igation system could occur i f there was a vacuum on the water distr ict main l ine, which could be created by the use of a f ire hydrant or a distr ict main l ine break. A backflow device is general ly located after the meter and before the f irst valve. Most systems wil l use either a Pressure Vacuum Breaker Device or a Reduced Pressure Principle Device. Pressure Vacuum Breaker Device The Pressure Vacuum Breaker Device must be instal led at least 12 inches above the highest sprinkler head. For example they are often placed on the top of a slope.

Pressure Vacuum Breaker Press


5


Reduced Pressure Principle Device - Backflow Due to the design of the Reduced Pressure Principle Device, i t can be located at any elevation. As a result, i t is much more versati le than the Pressure Vacuum Breaker Device.

Reduced Pressure Principle Device - Backflow Note: Al l devices must be tested and cert i f ied annual ly.


6


Flow Sensing (optional i tem) Flow sensors are used to send water f low data to a central control unit or a stand- alone control system to provide for precise and accurate monitoring of the water f low within the irr igation system. Avai lable in PVC, brass, or stainless steel constructions.


7


Master Valve (optional i tem) The master valve is not standard on al l i rr igation systems. There are special circumstances where it is a valuable asset to an irr igation system.

The optional master valve is used to keep the main l ine from being under constant pressure. It is operated electr ical ly by the irr igation control ler. When the irr igation control ler begins operation the master valve is opened, al lowing water to f low through the main l ine. When the control ler completes its operation the master valve is closed. With the master valve closed, water would not be al lowed to f low indefinitely should there be a break in the main l ine. I f a valve that controls the sprinkler heads were to “st ick” on, the master valve would also prevent the sprinklers from running continuously. However, i f gone undetected, this valve would run whenever the master valve opens to run the system, whether that part icular valve is programmed to run or not. A master valve would be desirable on a project where a main l ine break could cause substantial damage. For example, a project with a main l ine located on the top of a slope would benefit from the use of a master valve.


8


A master valve is desirable in areas where a main l ine break could cause serious damage.

Master Valve


9


Pressure Reducing Valve (Optional Item) The pressure-reducing valve is usual ly located on the main l ine between the backflow device and the f irst irr igation valve. The pressure-reducing valve is designed to prevent the water pressure from going above the amount set by the user. This device is useful in areas where high water pressure is a problem. On a project where main l ine breaks occur frequently, the water pressure should be checked to determine i f a pressure-reducing valve would al leviate the problem. The “Y” strainer is used to screen out debris before it enters the irr igation system. I f a system that has a strainer instal led begins to lose pressure overal l , the strainer should be cleaned.

Pressure Reducing Valve

“Y” Strainer


10


Quick Coupl ing and Valve Key The purpose of a quick coupl ing valve is to al low access to the irr igation system for a garden hose connection. Any system that uses reclaimed water requires a special type of connection to restr ict access.

Quick Coupler Key Garden hose connection is at the top. The bottom

connects to Quick Coupler Valve.


11


Electr ic Control Valve When the electr ic control valve is activated, either automatical ly by the control ler or manual ly by the bleed screw, it al lows water to f low to individual sections of the irr igation system. When the management company gets a cal l from a homeowner regarding water that has been on too long, the valve is usual ly the source of the problem.

The most common problems for a valve “st icking on” involve the diaphragm, which al lows water to f low through the valve. Usual ly the diaphragm is torn or a rock is lodged in the diaphragm seat.

Diaphragm is located here


12


SCRUBBER VALVES Valves that are designed to handle dirty water and pressure surges often found in agricultural irr igation systems. The nylon scrubber device scrapes a stainless steel screen every t ime the valve opens and closes. This prevents debris bui ld-up and clogging, with no external pi lot ing.


13

Landscape Survival Guide IRRIGATION

Above Grade Irr igat ion Heads Above grade irr igation heads are general ly used in planter areas and on slopes. However, for safety reasons they should not be placed along walkways or at the toe of a slope in a traff ic area. The reason they are placed above grade is to al low clearance for plant material.


14


Spray Heads

Impact Head

Rotor Head


15


Pop-Up Type Irr igat ion Heads Pop-up type heads are used in turf areas, along walkways and at the toe of slopes. The spray heads used in planter areas can pop out of the ground up to 12 inches to provide clearance for shrubs or ground cover. Impact and rotor heads are used to cover large areas.


16


Rotor Pop-Up Head

1800

High-Pop Spray Heads

Impact Pop-Up

Head


17


Irr igat ion Head Descript ions

Shrub Spray Head Shrub spray heads are used in planter areas. The plast ic type heads used today are easier to maintain than the brass heads of the past.

These heads have a screen that helps prevent debris from reaching the or i f ice and clogging i t . There are also numerous spray s izes avai lable to apply to large or smal l areas. High-Pop Spray Head High-pop type spray heads are used in turf areas and in planter areas along walkways. These heads wi l l “pop” or ra ise out of the ground from 2” to 12”. These heads are avai lable with numerous spray patterns and also have a screen to f i l ter out debris. They are s imple to maintain and are now an industry standard.

Brass Impact Rotor Head Brass impact rotor heads are used in large areas and on s lopes. They have moving parts that require maintenance and adjust ing. Many homeowners complain about the

noise these heads make dur ing operat ion.


18


Shrub Rotor Head Plast ic rotor heads are a lso used in large areas and on slopes. These heads are replacing the use of the brass heads because they are more re l iable, less expensive, and more versat i le. They have more opt ions in terms of spray patterns and require less maintenance. One negat ive aspect is that because they are made of plast ic, they are more vulnerable to vandal ism.

Pressure Compensat ing Screens Pressure compensat ing screens help to reduce pressure f luctuat ions and are used to control “ fogging” of spray nozzles by reducing the incoming pressure or to reduce the radius of the water pattern.

Pop-Up Impact Rotor Head Pop-up impact rotor heads are used most commonly in turf areas. They are also used along the bottom of s lopes and sometimes in large ground cover areas. They are basical ly the same as the brass impact rotor noted above except they are mounted in a pop-up housing.

With moving parts and metal construct ion they require frequent maintenance.


19


MP Rotator Heads/Nozzles MP Rotator heads and nozzles have a mult i-trajectory rotating stream del ivery system that helps achieve water-conservation results. They can be used to revital ize older systems because MP rotator can f i t any conventional spray head body or shrub adapter helping to become more eff icient and save water. They also can del iver maximum range of coverage while focusing on water conservation. Pop-Up Rotor Head Pop-up rotor heads are used in the same place where an impact pop-up rotor head is used. They are avai lable with numerous spray patterns and are versati le in terms of adjustments. The plastic construction has made them easier to maintain than the brass head. Vandal ism is not much concern because the heads sit below grade when not in use


20


Evapotranspirat ion Evapotranspirat ion (ET) is used to describe the sum of evaporation and plant transpirat ion from the earth’s land surface to atmosphere. Evaporation accounts for the movement of water to the air from sources such as the soi l , water bodies, and canopy interception. Transpirat ion accounts for the movement of water within a plant and the subsequent loss of water as vapor through the stomata in its leaves. Evapotranspirat ion is an important part of the water cycle.

Rain Shut-Offs Rain shut-offs can be added to most irr igation systems al lowing for automatic measuring of precipitat ion and keeping irr igation systems from watering in rainy condit ions.


21


Irr igat ion Control lers The irr igation control ler or “clock” is programmed by the user to set the days that water wi l l be appl ied. Each valve or “stat ion” is programmed for the desired length of t ime that the sprinklers wi l l water in a given area. Control lers come in numerous sizes in terms of how many stations can be operated. Depending on requirements, some irr igation control lers can operate up to thirty-two stations or more.

Mechanical Control lers Many older control lers are mechanical, which means that there are moving parts inside. Many name brands are dependable; however, they are l imited in programming abi l i ty. General ly, when the mechanical control ler is set to irr igate, al l the stat ions must operate simultaneously.


22


Sol id State Control lers The newer generation control ler is digital and has no moving parts. These control lers are much more versati le in terms of their programming abi l i ty. Each station can be individual ly programmed to irr igate at a given t ime. This is especial ly desirable when there is lawn and drought tolerant plants that are serviced by the same control ler.


23


Smart Control lers

Smart control lers automatical ly adjust irr igation schedules based on landscape needs and local weather condit ions (ET), drawing on information del ivered wirelessly from weather stat ions. These control lers are designed to help conserve water and prevent landscape water runoff. Internet Based Central Control Internet based Central Control is a web-hosted service that turns web equipped control lers into wireless internet-enabled device and al lows for central control capabi l i t ies through any web based internet browser. The system is less complex than a ful l onsite central control system.

-ET Based -Internet Interface -Flow Sensing Capable -Flexible Programming


24


On site Central Control lers

An irr igation central control system can be defined as a computer system that enables the programming, monitoring and operation of an irr igation system from a central location. Central control systems are designed to al low a single site (col lege campus, corporate headquarters, large home owners associat ions) or a set of sites (school distr ict, parks and recreation department) to control al l their irr igation from one central computer. A central control system can monitor and automatical ly adapt system operation and irr igation run t imes in response to condit ions in the system and surrounding area (weather change, pipe breaks, etc) as wel l as parameters defined by the system operator.


25


Weather Stat ions Weather Stat ions col lect and store weather data from f ield locations. This information is retr ieved by the central control ler dai ly, al lowing it to adjust stat ion runtimes according to each day’s ET (evapotranspirat ion) and rainfal l . Control ler Mounting Methods Wall Mounted Control lers Wall mounted control lers are usual ly mounted within a bui lding such as a maintenance or pool equipment room. I f mounted to an external wal l of a bui lding, it offers l i tt le or no security.


26


Control ler Enclosure In most projects and new instal lat ions, irr igation control lers are often placed inside a control ler enclosure. The enclosure helps protect the control ler from the elements and vandal ism. However, they should not be considered secure. At best, they are a deterrent to theft.

Backf low Cages Not many backf lows have cages but i t is h ighly recommended they be protected from damage caused by weather, vandal ism, and accidents. They wi l l curb theft of valuable copper and brass irr igat ion parts.


27


Pedestal Mounted Control ler A pedestal-mounted control ler is an alternative to a control ler enclosure. A pedestal is basical ly a metal box where the control ler is mounted to the top. The underground wires are then fed through the bottom and up into the control ler. Spray Head Coverage

Sprinkler head coverage should be head-to-head spacing so that spray touches each head in the system leaving no weak un-watered spots.


28


Solenoids When electr ic power is appl ied to the solenoid, the electromagnetic coi l is energized, opening the valve. When the coi l is de-energized, the valve closes. Solenoids al low for minimum valve pressure to be necessary in order to open or close the valve


29


Reclaimed Water Reclaimed water is treated waste water. It is the product of advanced treatment that el iminates by-products harmful for irr igation use whi le retaining beneficial elements that work as fert i l izers to nourish plant growth. Using reclaimed water helps conserve drinking water and creates a new source for irr igation. It is primari ly used for irr igation and is not for consumption or sanitary purposes, and irr igation should occur ONLY at a t ime when human or animal contact is least l ikely. Important Facts about Reclaimed Water Reclaimed water areas are required to be dist inctly marked by PURPLE valve boxes and QUICK COUPLERS and must have a key lock of some sort. - No hose bibs are al lowed within a reclaimed water system and al l new piping and sprinklers heads must be color coded purple. - Al l exist ing piping and irr igation equipment must be labeled appropriately and the proper signage must be posted within the immediate reclaimed water area. - A reclaimed water irr igation system does not have a backflow device.


30


Drip Irr igat ion Drip irr igation can help you use water eff iciently. A wel l-designed drip irr igation system loses very l i tt le water to runoff and encourages deep percolat ion. It is a viable alternative to tradit ional sprinkler systems in areas that have low water pressure or in areas where the instal lat ion of a tradit ional sprinkler does not make sense, such as potted plants. They also help curb water damage to bui ldings.


31

Landscape Survival Guide Water Management

Irrigation Consumption Database The table below is a sample of our historical database report for individual water meters. This report lets us compare water usage for each meter. It is most useful when there is excessive water usage in a particular period. The area of concern can be identified by searching the report for any usage discrepancies. We also have the ability to analyze data by month, year, or location.


32

Landscape Survival Guide Water Management

Irrigation Consumption Graph

The information from the database is used to create an irrigation consumption graph like the one above. The graph illustrates how much irrigation water was consumed by the project during each billing cycle. This allows us to compare consumption to previous months and years. While identifying cyclical trends of water usage, we are able to set realistic goals for future irrigation consumption. The long range goal is to reduce water usage when possible.


33

Landscape Survival Guide Drains

Catch Basins The diagram below depicts how a drainage system appears underground. The catch basins most commonly used are shown in situations where they would normally be put to use. The most important aspect of a drainage system is to be sure that it has positive flow. Positive flow means that any water that enters the system will flow through.

Curb Core


34


French Drain A French drain is installed in areas where standing water is a nuisance. Some examples may be where water constantly runs across a sidewalk or off a slope into a yard. This type of drainage system accepts water over a larger area. A traditional system with catch basins only accepts water at the catch basin. The water is filtered through the fabric, rises up through the gravel and then enters the pipe, which has holes in it.


35


V-Ditch A V-Ditch is typically a concrete swale for water on a slope and is used to divert water runoff from flowing down a slope into drains and away from homes or other unintended areas. They should be kept clean and free of debris that could prevent water flow.

Sandbags Sandbags are used to divert runoff in emergency situations. They are filled with sand or soil and are placed as needed.


36

Landscape Survival Guide Tree Maintenance

Tree Trimming Tree tr imming is the most misunderstood part of the landscape maintenance industry. For various reasons, most maintenance contracts only cover tree tr imming for trees less than 15 feet tal l . As a result, in order to save money, contractors are asked to “top” trees so they wil l not grow over the height l imit. With very few exceptions, trees should never be topped. The result is an unsightly tree that wi l l not grow back properly and is susceptible to other problems in the future. For those trees that wi l l mature over the contract height l imit a budget should be created to provide future tree tr imming. Different types of trees may be tr immed at various t imes of the year. Deciduous trees (no leaves in the winter) should be tr immed while their leaves are off. Evergreen trees may be tr immed any t ime of the year. Certain trees such as Coral and Eucalyptus should be tr immed before the fal l windy season. Most maintenance crews have more t ime avai lable to perform tree tr imming in the winter months.


37


This example shows what a tree looks l ike after i t has been pruned properly. The size has remained the same. Thinning has occurred by removing the smaller cross branches. The main branches are left intact.


38



39


Root Barr iers Root barr iers are designed to hinder the abi l i ty of a tree’s roots to damage hardscape areas. When instal led properly, root barr iers force the roots to grow down below the depth of most hardscape and foundations. However, there has been evidence of root barr iers causing the roots from a tree to grow circular (rootbound) on occasion. Also, i f root barr iers are instal led improperly on exist ing tree or new trees, the potential for damaging the root structure or weakening the tree to the point where it may die or fal l over exists. In general, root barr iers are used where a tree has been planted too close to streets, sidewalks, wal ls, foundations and other hardscape items.

No root barrier, roots are growing too close to concrete and could cause damage.

Root barrier installed. The roots have been forced to grow well below the concrete hardscape.


40


Tree Staking

There are various ways to stake trees. Depending on the specie and the size, a tree may be single or double staked. There are also several methods avai lable to t ie the tree to the stake. Important factors to note are that once the tree has been t ied, i t should have some room to grow and move around. Avoid using metal wire to t ie trees. Wire wi l l cut into and girdle a tree very quickly. Tree stakes and t ies must be checked periodical ly. As soon as a tree can survive without the stake it should be removed.

Double Stake

Single Stake


41


Guy Wir ing Even with proper precautions guy wires can prove to be a dangerous tr ip hazard. Not recommended for use in the landscape. I f a tree cannot be staked properly, consider removing the tree.

Guy Wire


42

Landscape Survival Guide Shrubs Maintenance

Shrub Prunning Shrub pruning is generally accomplished by using one of two methods, informal and formal. To determine which method is used, the type of plant material and client preference should be taken into consideration. Some plants are more conducive to one method over the other and a knowledgeable contractor will make the proper recommendations. Cost could be a factor. It is sometimes more labor intensive to maintain an informal hedge than a formal one. For both types of pruning the bottom or “skirt” portion of the plant should never be trimmed up too high. There are situations where the customer prefers informal pruning, but due to the project design, it is almost impossible. For example, in many of the newer condominium projects the planter areas are very small. These planters are then planted with shrub material that will outgrow the planter and have to be sheared just to keep them off the walks and driveways. In this case, informal pruning may require more space than the planter provides and may not be practical.


43

Landscape Survival Guide Shrubs Maintenance

Informal Hedge Side View Front View

♦ Do not use hedge shears ♦ Do not shape into ball forms ♦ To prune, selectively remove individual branches with hand

clippers to enhance natural structure Formal Hedge Side View Front View

♦ Prune by shearing edges of shrubs with hedge shears


44

Landscape Survival Guide Turf Maintenance

Turf Highlights Fertilizers

A good sign that a lawn needs fertilizer is when it has turned from green to yellow. Different times of the year dictate what type of fertilizer should be used. The same type of fertilizer should not be used year round. Some slow-acting fertilizers last longer than others. Package labels indicate the period of release. Most products last at least 8 to 10 weeks, or two and a half months. With this time frame two applications would be necessary to cover the season--one in early spring to cover about eight weeks to midsummer and then another in midsummer to cover the eight weeks through fall. As the technology for coating or encapsulating the nitrogen in synthetic fertilizer products develops, release periods will be extended. Some products now on the market advertise up to 16 weeks or more. While these products cost more in dollars, they save valuable time and energy. Disease Lawn diseases come in many varieties. Most diseases effect lawns in the spring and summer months. A good indicator that a lawn may be diseased is a random pattern of discoloration. If a lawn has been stressed from lack of water, it is also more susceptible to disease. Mulching Mowers In order to reduce the amount of green waste generated, lawn mowers can now mulch the cut grass into fine particles and deposit it back on the turf area. This helps reduce the amount


45

Landscape Survival Guide Turf Maintenance

of material deposited in landfills and returns important nutrients from the cut grass back onto the lawn. The machines currently available do not leave any noticeable cuttings when operated correctly. Studies have shown that there are no adverse effects to the lawn as a result of using these machines. Aeration

Aeration is performed with a machine that creates small holes in the turf. The purpose of aeration is to open up the ground to allow for water and air penetration. This process is healthy for the lawn and should be performed annually. Dethatching Dethatching is performed with a machine that actually thins out the lawn. The process is very labor intensive and creates a substantial amount of debris. Dethatching is useful on lawns that have become too thick from thatch buildup. Too much thatch leaves a lawn susceptible to disease, and the lawn requires extra water to survive. Weeds

Broadleaf weeds in lawns are best controlled by using herbicides. The chemicals involved are often restricted and notification to customers and posting may be required. The best way to prevent broadleaf weeds is to maintain a green, healthy lawn. Weeds simply cannot survive in a lawn that is cared for correctly.


46

Landscape Survival Guide Color

Annual and Perennial Color Color is used on many projects to draw attention to a focal point such as an entryway or monument sign. There are two forms of color, annual and perennial. Annual color will germinate from seed, grow, bloom, produce seeds and die in one growing season, which is about 3 to 4 months. A perennial has one blooming season each year, which can last for one week to over a month. After blooming, the plant may put on new growth for the next year, it may die down and virtually disappear for months or it may look much the same throughout the year. The biggest problem with color is that it is unpredictable. The weather plays a major role as to how long color will last. It is not uncommon to plant the right material at the right time of year and then have a severe weather change causing the color to die. For example, there is a misconception that impatiens will last year round. If weather conditions were to remain perfect, impatiens would last indefinitely. The problem is that any major change in weather, such as a heat wave, frost or high winds, will either kill them or severely set them back. Contractors are always asked to plant long-lasting flowers. The contractor can only install what is available at that time of the year. The contractor will use his best judgment to determine which plants are best suited for a particular setting.


47


However, once color has been planted, there are no guarantees. The contractor should only be held responsible when plants die as a result of his neglect or mismanagement. Many contracts call for color to be replanted four times per year. This should only be used as a guideline. It is probable that in order to keep the color vigorous and aesthetically pleasing it may have to be planted more often. Color requires consistent irrigation. If the sprinklers are not dedicated solely to the color area, hand watering may be necessary. Snails are also a constant threat. In some cases, snail abatement may need to be performed on a weekly basis.


48


ANNUAL PERENNIAL* VARIETY DESCRIPTION WARM SEASON

COOL SEASON

SHADE SUN

l AGERATUM LAVENDER BLUE FLOWERS 6" - 12" TALL l l l

l ALYSSUM MOUNDING PLANTS OF PINK, PURPLE, WHITE FLOWERS 4" - 6" TALL; RESEEDS ITSELF l l l l

l l BEGONIAS FIBROUS; WAX; LEAVES GREEN, BRONZE, RED; BLOOMS WHITE, PINK & RED 6" - 10" TALL l l

l CALENDULAS "POT MARIGOLD"; BLOOMS YELLOW, ORANGE SHADES 12" - 24" HIGH l l

l CINERARIA WHITE, PINK, PURPLE, RED DAISY-LIKE CLUSTERS OF BLOOMS; PLANTS 12" - 15" TALL l l

l l COLEUS BRILLIANT COLORED LEAVES 12" - 15" TALL; OK AS HOUSEPLANT; TENDER l l

l CYCLAMEN WHITE, PINK, RED FLOWERS; EARLY SPRING AND WINTER SHOW l l

l CHRYSANTHEMUMS WHITE, ORANGE, RED, YELLOW & OTHER 12" - 36" HIGH; HARDY; FALL/WINTER COLOR l l

l l DAHLIA PASTEL COLORS 3" BLOOMS; PLANTS FROM 12" - 14"; HARDY l l

l DELPHINIUM BLUE, WHITE, PURPLE, SHADE FLOWERS; GROWS 18" - 60" l l l l

l DUSTY MILLER WOOLY GRAY FOLIAGE; YELLOW BLOOM; GOOD ACCENT PLANT; HARDY l l l

l l ENGLISH DAISY SMALL BUTTON FLOWERS; PINKS, REDS, WHITES; GROWS 4" - 6" l l l

l GERANIUMS VERY DEPENDABLE; COLOR MOST OF YEAR; PINK, RED, WHITE SHADES; 18" - 42" TALL l l l

l GOMPHRENA PURPLE, ROUND, ½" FLOWRS; GROWS 6" - 12" TALL l l

l l ICELAND POPPIES 3" CUP-SHAPED, PASTEL COLORED FLOWERS ON 12" - 24" STEMS l l

l l IMPATIENS PASTEL COLORED BLOOMS 1" - 2" ACROSS; GROWS 12" - 18" TALL l l

l LOBELIA 3/4" BLOOMS; BLUE, PURPLE, & WHITE FLOWERS; COMPACT TO TRAILING; GOOD FOR HANGING BASKETS l l l l

l MARIGOLDS ROBUST, FREE BRANCHING FROM 6" - 48" TALL; ORANGE, RUSTS & YELLOWS l l

l NASTURTIUM TRAILING, SHIELD; SHAPED GREEN LEAVES; 15" TALL; RED-BROWN, ORANGE, YELLOW l l l

l PANSYS ALL COLORS; 2" BLOOMS' PLANTS 6" - 10" VERY DEPENDABLE l l

l l PETUNIAS ALL COLORS; 3" BLOOMS; PLANTS TO 15" TALL; VERY DEPENDABLE l l

l PHLOX NUMEROUS PASTEL BLOOMS; PLANTS TO 6" TALL l l l

l PORTULACA "MOSS ROSE"; PASTEL COLORS ON 6" HIGH SUCCULENT PLANTS; VERY DEPENDABLE l l

l PRIMULA MALACOIDES WHORLE ROSETS OF PINKS, WHITES, REDS, LAVENDER BLOOMS; GROWS 12" - 15" l l

l RANUNCULUS ALL COLORS; LARGE DOUBLE FLOWERS 2" - 3"; GROWS 18" - 24" TALL l l

l l SALVIA BLUE PERENNIAL; RED ANNUAL; VIVID COLOR; EXCELLENT BORDER l l l l

l SHASTA DAISYS WHITE, GOLD CENTERED BLOOMS; LARGE FLOWER; 24" - 36" TALL; VERY HARDY l l l

l l SNAPDRAGON PASTEL SPIKES ON 8" - 48" PLANTS; VERY GOOD PERFORMER l l l

l STATICE AIRY BLUE & WHITE CLUSTERS OF BLOOM ON LARGE LEATHER LEAVES; GOOD CUT FLOWERS l l l l

l l STOCK DOUBLE OR SINGLE FRAGRANT WHITE, PINK, RED, PURPLE OR LAVENDER BLOOMS; 15" - 36" TALL l l l

l l SWEET WILLIAM DENSE CLUSTERS OF WHITE, PINK, ROSE & RED BLOOMS; 8" - 10" TALL l l l l

l l VINCAS ROSEA WHITE, PINK SHADE BLOOMS 1½"; 10" - 24" TALL; THE BEST SUMMER BLOOMER l l l l

l VIOLA ALL COLORS; SMALLER BLOOMS THAN PANSYS BUT MORE OF THEM l l l

l ZINNIA REDS, ORANGE, YELLOW & WHITE 1" - 4" BLOOMS; PER VARIETY; PLANTS FROM 8" - 36" l l

* Some plants may be treated as annuals due to adverse weather conditions.


49

Landscape Survival Guide Fertilizer

Additional Nutrients In addition to light, air, water and space for roots, growing plants need a supply of nutrients --- elements necessary to carry out their life process. Some of these nutrients, the ones referred to as trace elements, are needed in infinitesimal quantities that most soils can supply. But there are three major nutrients---nitrogen (chemical symbol N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K)---that plants need in larger amounts for consistently good growth. Every fertilizer’s label shows, in numbers, the formula of major nutrients; the guaranteed analysis information specifies the nutrient percentages and mentions their chemical sources. There is not one specific fertilizer that can be used in all months of the year. Changes in weather and soil temperatures dictate different fertilizers for the various seasons.


50

Landscape Survival Guide Landscape Fire Prevention

Landscape Fire Prevention Each county has its own policies on landscape fire prevention; the following is a list of websites to find out the exact regulations for all Southern California counties. Please visit the following Fire Authority website that corresponds with your county: Orange County Fire Authority www.ocfa.org San Diego Fire-Rescue www.sandiego.gov/fireandems/ LA County Fire Department www.fire.lacounty.gov Ventura County Fire http://fire.countyofventura.org/aboutus/ Riverside County Fire www.rvcfire.org/ San Bernardino County Fire www.sbcfire.org/


51

Landscape Survival Guide Landscape Inspections

Landscape Walk-Throughs A landscape walk-through or inspection is conducted for several reasons. The most important reason for a walk-through is to determine compliance with the landscape maintenance specifications. All parties present at the walk should be familiar with the specifications and what is required of the contractor. Walk-throughs are also conducted for other purposes such as landscape renovation, tree trimming needs or drainage problems. The contractor should take his own notes and forward a typed copy to the management company. If any price quotes for additional work are required, they should also be noted along with the maintenance items. Here are some tips on what to look for on a landscape walk-through: Lawns Lawns should be green, mowed and edged. Most discoloration will be from lack of fertilizer. A lawn disease will probably affect most lawn areas in a patchy random streak of discoloration. Check for weeds. A weed in a lawn is anything other than the intended grass. Ground Cover / Slopes Ground cover areas should contain only the intended ground cover and plants. Any bare areas in the ground cover should be replanted after the irrigation has been inspected and repaired, if necessary. Poor soil conditions could also contribute to bare areas in ground cover.


52

Landscape Survival Guide Landscape Inspections

Shrub Areas Determine if the customer desires formal or informal shrub trimming and rate compliance accordingly. The ground beneath the shrubs should be free of debris and weeds. Do not allow a contractor to trim the bottom of shrubs up too high. Trees The most important item to look for when inspecting trees is the tree tie. Check to see that the tie is not so tight that it is cutting into the tree. The contractor should inspect tree ties regularly. Look for low hanging branches that should be trimmed off of sidewalks and streets to allow for pedestrian traffic. Irrigation Look for areas of standing water. Contractors are notorious for over watering. Stressed plant material in a dry planter area is a good sign of an irrigation problem. The most common irrigation problems are broken heads, clogged heads and valves that do not operate automatically.


53

Landscape Survival Guide Contract Tips

Performance Contract Most contracts are written based on performance and not man-hours. A performance contract helps protect the customer and lets the contractor do his job. In a performance contract, the contractor has to provide a level of service regardless of how many people it takes. Because landscape maintenance is performed in the heat of summer and the cool of winter, it tends to be cyclical. As a result, the labor required to perform routine tasks such as mowing and weeding, varies from season to season. If a contract were to be based on man-hours, it would be very difficult to perform certain tasks in the summer while being over staffed in the winter. Therefore, a performance contract makes the contractor live up to a level of service if it takes him one person or fifty people.

Contract Summary Sheet Contracts are often written in a way where they can be interpreted several different ways. The best way to avoid confusion is to have a summary sheet that specifically says who is paying for items such as fertilizer, disposal fees, chemicals, rodent control, etc. Acts Of God Most contracts do not hold the contractor responsible for work involved with an “Act of God”. An Act of God usually refers to storm, earthquake or fire damage. For example, after a severe winter storm, if many large trees have blown over, the contractor may have to send out a specialty crew to perform the clean-up. This work would be as a result of an Act of God and should be billed and not included under the regular monthly maintenance contract.


54

Landscape Survival Guide Contract Tips

Changing Contractors The best time to change contractors is in the fall or winter. This gives the new contractors a chance to familiarize themselves with a project and the irrigation systems before the busy spring and summer seasons. Tree Trimming Specifications Most contracts call for tree trimming up to fifteen feet. This should be interpreted to mean that only those trees that are less than fifteen feet would be trimmed as part of the contract. It does not mean that the contractor will trim the first fifteen feet of trees that are taller. However, on a taller tree, if a few branches are hanging too low or are touching a building or roof the contractor should perform the occasional branch removal. All Inclusive Contracts Occasionally, a customer may desire an “all inclusive contract”. These contracts can be misleading and costly. In order for a contractor to bid an all-inclusive contract he is probably going to include every conceivable cost in the event it becomes necessary. This may cost the customer more than is required. On the other hand, if something comes up that the contractor had not expected he would lose or try to get by with less than is acceptable. There are too many variables and the best relationship is one where the contractor treats the client fair and the client has trust in the contractor.

Landscape Survival Guide - Comprehensive Landscape Services

Documents

Transcript of Landscape Survival Guide - Comprehensive Landscape Services