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YOUR ESTABLISHED CACTI CAN USE A LITTLE HELP

Written by csDevTeam on . Posted in Cactus / Saguaro, Landscaping.

Many homeowners chose to landscape their grounds with local plants native to the Sonoran Desert, including succulents and cacti. Here are some ways of caring for these desert floras through the hot summer months:

TYPES OF CACTI

Although the saguaro is the most iconic type of cactus in the desert region, Arizona features many more species. Prickly pears, with their large, flat arms, barrel cacti produce many colorful, small blooms in the spring and agaves add great architectural elements.

CACTI RECEIVE LITTLE MAINTENANCE

Cacti have evolved to thrive in the harsh environments of the desert, making them a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. They need to be fed once or twice per year and need plenty of sunlight and a small amount of water to grow and bloom.

WATERING YOUR CACTI

Although they are hardy to our dry environment, cacti still require some water to stay healthy. Cacti will appreciate a gallon or two of water every other week in the months of May and June.

During the hot summer months before the monsoon season, you should water your cacti once every couple of weeks to make sure that they don’t stress.

PROTECTING YOUR CACTI

Cacti can get sunburned when newly transplanted even though they are desert plants. If you notice yellow or brown spots on cacti, cover them with shade cloth to protect them from the sun’s ultraviolet rays.

Santa Rita Landscaping of Tucson can help you take good care of any cacti on your property, and even plant news one for you. With over 75 years of combined experience maintaining landscapes in the Old Pueblo, we know how to care for all types of cacti. Call us today at (520) 623-0421 to inquire about our services.

WHEN TO FERTILIZE YOUR SHRUBS

Written by csDevTeam on . Posted in Fertilizing Trees, Landscaping.

Diverse and resilient, shrubs can add new life to your home’s landscape.  By following the proper steps for fertilization, your shrubs will stay vibrant.  Here are some fertilization techniques for shrubs:

 FERTILIZE ON MAJOR HOLIDAYS

A good way to remember a fertilization schedule for your shrubs is by using the major holidays during the warm months of the year. You should fertilize on Easter, Memorial Day, the 4th of July, and Labor Day to keep your shrubs looking great all year round.

CHOOSING A FERTILIZER

Make sure you select a good general-purpose fertilizer. We recommend a granular fertilizer for regular use.  It is easy to use with no mixing required.  Select granular fertilizer that contains around 10% Nitrogen (N), 10% Phosphorus (P), and 10% Potassium (K), (10-10-10).  Granular Fertilizer is usually very concentrated, so make sure to follow the directions. Apply the fertilizer evenly around the plant from the trunk to the outer edge of the plant canopy.  Don’t pile it up in one spot. Granular Fertilizer dissolves slowly over time.   It is a good idea to give the plant a good watering before and after application.

POOR FERTILIZATION SIGNS

Yellow leaves on a plant is a sign of poor fertilization as well as the absence of blooms on flowering shrubs, thinning of leaves, and weakened branches.  You may have to change your pruning routine for your shrubs and adjust watering as well as selecting a new fertilizer to solve these problems.

For more tips on caring for your Tucson, Green Valley, or Oro Valley home’s landscape, consult Santa Rita Landscaping today. You can explore our custom residential design and commercial maintenance services by visiting our website or calling us at (520) 623-0421.

NOW IS THE TIME TO FERTILIZE AND CLEAN YOUR IRRIGATION FILTER

Written by csDevTeam on . Posted in Fertilizing Trees, Irrigation Systems, Landscaping.

April is a great time of year to clean your irrigation filter and reset your irrigation controller for the summer. Your landscape will require springtime maintenance to prepare for the hot Tucson summer days ahead.  We suggest the following preparation tips:

How TO CLEAN YOUR IRRIGATION FILTER

An irrigation system helps keep the shrubs hydrated even with high temps on them keeping them green and lush all year.  First, shut off the water. Then you need to remove and clean the filter which is located in your irrigation valve box so that your system stays clog-free.  Next, unscrew the cap and remove the screen filter. Clean any tough deposits by scrubbing the filter with an old toothbrush, then replace the filter and hand tighten the cap.

TIPS FOR WATERING YOUR PLANTS DURING THE SEASONS

Below is a suggested watering schedule for your irrigation system that you can use as a guide.  Watch your plants carefully anytime you change your watering schedule because your watering schedule will vary depending on the weather, soil, maturity of plants, type of plants, and season.

 

Newly Installed Plants (First  3 Months)

Every other day for 2 to 2.5 hours

First Year – Summer (beginning April 15)

Every other day for 2.5 hours

First Year – Winter (beginning October 15)

Every other day for 1.5 hours

Second Year – Winter

Every third day for 2.5 hours

Second Year – Summer **

Every Third day for 3 – 4 hours

Established Plants – Winter  **

Once per week for 3 – 6 hours

Established Plants – Summer  **

Once per week for 3 – 6 hours

**Take caution when using these settings, in some soil conditions, plants may stress between waterings or some soil will not accept 4 hours of water at one time, multiple start times may be needed.

 

Santa Rita Landscaping can help you get your irrigation system and other landscaped features on your property ready for summer. Call us today at (520) 623-0421 for more information.

Adding a Water Feature to your Backyard

Written by csDevTeam on . Posted in Landscaping, Water Features, Water Fountains.

Installing a water feature in your yard is an easy way to instantly transform the appearance of your landscape. These popular landscape design features are sought after not only for their looks but for the soothing sounds and atmosphere they create.  A water feature will add personality, style, and diversity to your back garden as well as add an appealing contrast to the desert beauty of Tucson.

Here are 3 water features for you to consider:

Ponds

Ponds offer a great way to enhance your yard without disrupting the organic look of your property. A free form pond creates a natural space where you can keep fish, plant a garden, or add seating for a relaxing space.  Adding a small fountain or waterfall can be added for ambiance and helps improve water circulation for easier maintenance.

Fountains

A fountain can be the focal point of your yard or be tucked away into a niche or beside a gardening area. Fountains come in a wide variety of designs, from modern to classical to suit the theme of your current landscape. They may be freestanding or incorporated as part of a patio enclosure to add style and privacy to your outdoor space.

Canals

Canals can transport water throughout your yard. They can soften your landscape’s overall design while adhering to the more structured feel.  A canal with flowing water can create the perfect complement to a southwestern-style yard.  You should also consider adding a bridge or waterfall to create a backyard with a classical, garden-like feel.

Santa Rita Landscaping can help you design, create, and install the perfect water feature as part of your Tucson landscape design. We offer residential and commercial construction and landscaping services to enhance the look and value of your property. Please visit our website or call (520) 623-0421 to discover the benefits of working with us on your next landscaping project.

BACKYARD FEATURES YOU CAN ENJOY THIS SPRING

Written by csDevTeam on . Posted in Artificial Turf, Fire Pits, Landscaping, Water Features, Water Fountains.

Springtime is the perfect time of year for you to enjoy outdoor living with comfortable temperatures and new blooming plants and trees. Enjoy more time in your backyard this spring by adding the following features into your home landscape.

Artificial Turf for Outdoor Play

Just because we live in the desert, doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy the look of grass! Real grass can be difficult and expensive to maintain.  That’s why many homeowners have chosen to add artificial turf to their landscaping. Artificial turf gives your backyard that green welcoming look and offers children and pets a great area to play on a soft service. Do you like to golf? You can add a personal putting green to your outdoor oasis.

 

Fire Pits for Warm Nights

Desert temperatures can drop by 20 degrees in the evening during the spring and summer. Make the most out of these evenings by adding a fire pit to roast marshmallows or just enjoy sitting around the fire.  There are fire pits to match every type of home style from more natural-looking rock pits to modern, sleek sculptural designs. Note that natural gas designs are extremely easy to use and maintain.

 

Relax with Water Features

Who doesn’t enjoy the relaxing sound of water falling and traveling over rocks or a bubbling spring?  Water features are guaranteed to add soothing sights and sound to your home.

Incorporating a water feature is easy. Similar to fire pits, water features are available in a variety of custom natural or architectural designs. Recreate the essence of a natural pond in your backyard or install a Mediterranean style fountain.

At Santa Rita Landscaping, we specialize in helping businesses and homeowners maximize the potential of their outdoor areas. Contact us at (520) 623-0421 to learn more about our services.