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Got the fever? Spring Fever- Now Scheduling Spring Clean-ups 2018

Hi, Listen to this... It's February 19, 2018 and the forecast for the Triad in the next 7 days has high temps of: 71, 73, 73, 65, 73, 71, 67. Being born and raised here, I know that exact forecast can flip on end in a split second. And I'd also say that I know it's not Spring. But the fever (we're hoping not the Flu fever) of Spring is strong and we're excited as I'm sure many of you are. So, we just wanted to let you know that Black Dog IS NOW SCHEDULING SPRING CLEAN-UPS. We've had several approach and ask when the "right time" is to get that on our agenda, and a great time is from NOW going forward. In fact, the sooner you contact us, the more flexibility we'll be able to give you in picking your best timing.   What's In A Spring Clean-up: Generally a Spring Clean-up consists of debris pick up and removal, weed control in plant bed areas, lawn pre-emergent, proper edging of beds/hard surfaces, shrub pruning or shaping, lingering leaf clean-up, and fresh mulch or pine straw. We can include any one of these, all of these, or maybe an additional item specialized to your home like plant installs or Spring over-seeding. Mulch is priced dependent upon the type and quantity. Meanwhile, pine straw (see above) we consistently have fresh deliveries at our shop weekly throughout the Spring, and we'll deliver only, deliver & install, or we can arrange for pick-up. Call (336-944-6618) or e-mail for your scheduling and pricing quotes! ___________ We don't want it to be a fever for you. But if so, we've got the prescription -- a Black Dog quote for any of your Spring needs. God bless, Steven

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2018 Lawn Treatment & Maintenance -- Planning Now!

Hi, We hope you've been having a great Winter and the start to 2018 has been off to a really promising start! For Black Dog, we've been busy already this year. Notice less "landscape tip" e-mails and less messages in your inbox from your's truly! But with the 2018 Lawn Treatment and Lawn Maintenance seasons upon us, I wanted to send a quick message about two of our most popular services we provide. Essentially -- If you want a healthier/more attractive lawn, and you want to achieve that while spending little of your time: READ BELOW! Black Dog Lawn Treatment: Before most people think it's time to have someone working outside their home again for Spring, it's crucial timing for those that desire a healthy lawn. By the time the birds are consistently chirping, flowers are blooming, and the temps have you feeling like breaking out shorts -- it's TOO LATE to get a jump on insuring your lawn is protected and on-track for the 2018 season. That's why Black Dog suggests our FIRST lawn treatment on your turf should take place mid-February (Feb. 14-23) With this in-mind, we wanted to share with you the information on our FIVE step Lawn Treatment program that will run the course of 2018. It begins in mid-February and runs through mid-December -- a course designed to give your lawn what it needs, when it needs it. Our plan includes the five following treatments: -Early Spring pre-emergent -Late Spring post-emergent -Summer Green Feeding -Starter Fertilizer for Over-seeding -Winterizer Fertilization *Appropriate post-emergent liquid spraying is often included Our plan focuses on improving your lawn, giving you a greener lawn, strengthening the good turf grass types, weed remediation, and an overall healthier product year-round. Admittedly, it is not the strongest/strictest plan available. But for overall health and sustainability, we suggest giving this plan a try for a couple years in association with a once-annual lawn over-seeding/aeration. For pricing for your lawn, respond by e-mail or phone (336-944-6618). *FOR THOSE WHOM HAVE ALREADY RECEIVED PERSONALIZED INFO ABOUT 2018 TREATMENT, REFER TO PREVIOUS E-MAIL Full Service Mowing Program: For some clients (some of those on our Treatment Plan above), mowers have already been cranked up and used to service their lawns. However, our regular mowing season really kicks off the week of March 12-16 where our crews will be completing regular visits on a set schedule. IF you've never worked with us on having your lawn serviced, here's the "need to knows".... 1. You do NOT have to be on a year-round contract with us 2. We do prefer to have folks on either a weekly or bi-weekly rotation for regular maintenance so our clients will know when to expect us, BUT we will complete one-time services 3. Full Service Mowing includes: Picking up small fallen sticks/twigs in lawn areas, picking up trash, mowing all lawn surfaces at an appropriate height, edging around hard surfaces and bed areas, weed-trimming slopes/obstacles where mowers are unable to reach, trimming weeds from all hard surface cracks, and blowing all hard surfaces clean To join our list of regularly scheduled Full Service Mowing appointments (mid-March to mid-October), respond by e-mail or phone (336-944-6618). *FOR THOSE WHOM HAVE USED BLACK DOG FOR THIS SERVICE DURING 2017, WE WILL BE CONTACTING YOU SHORTLY (unless you're a year-round client) ___________ The two most popular services we complete, saving plenty of people's time. Have us help save your Summer too -- It's never too early to start planning. And for your lawn's health, we don't want it to be too late. God bless, Steven =====> DON'T FORGET TO FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM & FACEBOOK <=====

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Still Time, Pup Update, & Fall 2017 Landscape Tips

Hi, It's officially Fall, so get everything pumpkin spice ready! It's actually not my thing, but I know that's exciting for some this time of year. For me, I'm more excited about all the numerous landscape services and changes we can see out our windows in the Fall. So, I've got it all coming your way -- still seed or not, shrub trim timing info, plant NOW, and most importantly clean-up for leaves (A MUST READ FOR ALL MOWING CLIENTS)! But first, for those waiting for more glimpses and news on our newest crewdog Hank: We picked up Hank from Whistling Dixie Retrievers in Haw River, NC on Saturday, September 16. Since then, he's been back at our office getting plenty of love, attention, and even some site visit practice. And, let's not forget about the original Black Dog Sailor... Above, check out a picture of the first meeting between Sailor (L) and Hank (R). They are getting along very well and enjoy each other's company. For more pics of the two, and other great landscape pics of our work -- Check out our FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM pages. _________ 1. STILL SEED OR NOT? The climate is still certainly ripe for the sewing of new grass in your lawn if you have not already made arrangements to do so. If you have a heavy covering of trees throughout your property, you will want to really get things completed SOON. Otherwise, I always tell everyone that the seeding season can really extend out to the first of November. Just a reminder, Black Dog will be happy to complete a Full Lawn Improvement service (core-aeration, installation of Fescue seed, installation of Starter fertilizer, and installation of pellet Lime) or we can simply come out and Core-aerate your lawn for you to get the process started. There is still time for about one more month. 2. IT'S USUALLY SPRING THAT GETS THE ATTENTION. BUT FALL MAY REALLY BE BETTER FOR THIS... I know that Spring is a time where everyone's itching. Itching to get out of the house, already looking ahead to a Summer break, and what can we be doing to bring those things to life. A lot of times that's getting outside, pulling the patio furniture out early, running to a local home improvement store/nursery, and socking every colorful plant into the ground we can. It's not bad, and ends up working in a lot of cases. I would argue though, that Fall is a better timing to install MOST plants and shrubs. The reason always comes down to the care. You CAN install plants and shrubs in North Carolina throughout the entire year. But if you're looking for the time in the year where that plant or shrub will require the LEAST amount of care, I believe that is generally Fall. Selection at nurseries are really plentiful this time of year, generally a more forgiving type of climate, we're usually at home more to care for these such things, and potentially less watering. Schedule a consult with us if you are interested in getting some new plants & shrubs installed! 3. (MUST READ FOR ALL MOWING CLIENTS) 2017-18 LEAF CLEAN-UP SCHEDULING Black Dog offers a few main varieties of leaf clean-up services for our customers. -Full Leaf Removal From A Property -Leaf Mulching Into The Lawn Surface -Leaf Blowing To A Curb, Nearby Woods, Or Another Specified Location We are currently getting arrangements started for our leaf clean-up services that will begin the week of OCTOBER 16-20. At this time, IF YOU ARE A MOWING CLIENT OF BLACK DOG WHO IS NOT WORKING WITH US ON A YEAR-ROUND SERVICE PLAN, we will scale back our mowing services at your home and be changing our main focus to our leaf clean-up customers at this time. Please call 336-944-6618 or e-mail us to make arrangements for your lawn. 4. THOSE SHRUBS WANT YOU TO WAIT JUST A LITTLE LONGER I know, I really hate looking at unkempt shrubbery when everything else is coming together around your landscape this time of year. And like a lot of what we do, Fall CAN BE a time of the year that pruning your shrubbery is what's best. But as a general landscape practice in NC, I just wanted to share that those shrubs really desire we wait to prune them for just another couple months. There's a couple main benefits to doing this... (1) If we prune the shrub now, still where temps are 75-80 degrees, there's a great chance that shrub regenerates new growth. This new growth will be the most fragile, and will never get a chance to harden off before the colder temps that we know are on the way. This could cause much stress, damage to your shrub -- and it could potentially cause the shrub to die. (2) If we wait to prune the shrub, it will be less likely to grow new foliage until next Spring 2018. This would give us 3-5 months time to enjoy the nice manicure of your surrounding plants/shrubbery ___________ Full disclosure: I do like the smell of all the Fall candles. They may even be scented pumpkin spice. It's just still not as enjoyable as seeing that newly seeded lawn take-off with new growth, and fresh plants going in the beds awaiting next Spring. God bless,

Steven

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2017 Fall & Over-seeding Landscape Tips

Hi, Well... Let's start with the most EXCITING NEWS! The little guy you see above, is our newest addition to the team that will join us on September 16. He will be Sailor's puppy brother and was born on August 1. We're so excited to have another member join our team and family, and you might just see him around on site visits with me! But, can you believe it? End of August already too. The benefit to the time flying by the way it is for me and my guys -- It's got to be the upcoming break we'll see in temps. And, each year as the temps start to drop is when you and I need to begin to crank up the landscape activity around our homes. In short: More ideal temps, more likelihood of consistent rain vs. Summer's spotty showers, and better rates of survival for your grass and plants. So, to prep you for a time in the season that is approaching sooner than later, here's some services you should be considering (Sept-Nov)... _________ 1) FALL LAWN OVER-SEEDING: A common misconception with most homeowners is that planting grass should be a Spring activity. It may very well could be, but ACTUALLY is dictated upon the grass type that is being planted. However, 3/4 of people in the Triad of NC desire a Fescue lawn and the MOST IDEAL time to plant Fescue is in the Fall. Included in a Fall over-seeding with Black Dog is: 1. core-aeration of your lawn surface (to break up compaction in the lawn), 2. a starter fertilizer, 3. Tall Fescue seed, and 4. pelletized lime. This combination of material, service, and time of the year for Fescue lawns is *EXACTLY what is needed for beautiful turf outside your home come Spring 2018. *Weed control, proper annual fertilization, proper maintenance, and proper precipitation care throughout, are other factors you should inquire with us about To schedule a Fall Over-seeding for your lawn, let us know ASAP for the best timing and scheduling. 2) NEW PLANT INSTALLATION: In reality, new plants can be planted all throughout our calendar year. It's the care that they require after installation that is heavily decided upon the timing the new plant has been installed, and again the type of plant. If you are interested in new shrubbery, new trees, a new landscaping look for your home -- planning for installation can't begin soon enough. The lawn may take precedence because it's timing window is much smaller. But the idea of sprucing up your beds with new plants is a great task to check-off Sept-Nov. We complete landscape consults every day, M-F. Call to set up an appointment to discuss your plants or landscape design. 3) IN-GROUND IRRIGATION SYSTEM: Frankly, we should probably do a better job publicizing it. But we've recently joined forces and are now able to offer our great clients irrigation system servicing! New installs, regular/routine maintenance, start-ups and winterizations of an existing system. If you need irrigation work done, let us come out and get you a quote. _________ More to come before the leaf bombs begin to rain down on your lawn and other proper appointments (shrub pruning, decorative grasses, tree limbing) to make around the exterior of your home. Just don't forget about the lawn because, fingers crossed by my guys, those temps and the seasons will be changing soon. God bless, Steven

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February 2017 Landscape Tips (IMPORTANT FERTILIZATION INFO)

Hi, Is it the warmer temps? Could it be I'm just getting older so the timing of things gets quicker and quicker with each clock rotation? Whatever it is, I cannot believe that we're already into February and Spring will be here before you know it.. no matter what Punxsutawney Phil may say. And speaking of 'time' -- I have some VERY TIMELY info for you as the end of this month draws closer, especially if you want your lawn to be in tip-top shape throughout this year! YOUR LAWN'S FUTURE SUCCESS MAY BEGIN THIS MONTH- As the end of February approaches, not to strike a level of panic, but the clock does begin to tick as to the type of overall lawn you will have for 2017. Yes, I always have a back-up plan. But your grass' health and your life is made a lot easier if appropriate treatment and planning is completed EARLY. Black Dog suggests a 5 step lawn treatment plan that will take your lawn through the course of a year. The FIRST of those steps is taken at the end of THIS MONTH/beginning of March. This is a pre-emergent weed treatment that provides a barricade over your lawn's surface, defending against and preventing many weed outbreaks throughout the course of your Spring season. It's why it's VERY important to get this applied before weeds begin to germinate, and your lawn has a serious outbreak before you can hardly even begin cranking up that mower. If you'd like to join our entire 5 Lawn Treatment Plan or have consultation about just 1 treatment to see if it's something you may like, then return e-mail or Call Today (336-944-6618). 

Here's more detail about our 5 Step Treatment Plan: 1. Feb-March. Early Spring Pre-emergent. 19-0-3 w/ Barricade 2. April-May. Weed & Feed Post-emergent. 15-0-2 w/ Nitrogen & Viper 3. June-August. 5-10-20 4. Sept-October. Starter Fertilizer w/ Over-seeding. 18-20-2 + Lime 5. Nov-December. Winterizer. 28-2-3 LIMB-UP AND GIVE MYRTLE A TRIM- One of the many services that we suggest and complete at many locations during the "off-season" is a limbing-up of low hanging limbs on trees, and ESPECIALLY a trimming of Crape Myrtles. This time of year: foliage is off branches, you won't inhibit any blooming, and later it allows for easier maintenance around these spaces if tree limbs are tidied up and out of the way. It is important to mention that Black Dog does NOT commit 'Crape Murder' unless asked to do so, and there are appropriate trimming practices for limbing-up all trees. If the Winter is zooming by on you too, and you haven't given Myrtle or the other trees a trim -- let us know and we'll schedule this ASAP. FRESH PINE STRAW DELIVERY (and MULCH)- Not much else makes a landscape pop like a fresh batch of ground cover --   pine straw or mulch. Black Dog delivers and installs both year-round for our clients! But HERE'S SOMETHING YOU MAY NOT KNOW.. The FRESHEST bales of pine straw are available sooner than later. The fresh crop of pine straw is baled up and sold now, while others are stored up for the part of the season that's sparse. Black Dog receives FRESH deliveries from NOW through Spring. If you don't want our installation ($7.75 per bale), we'll be happy to: -Deliver Only        or -You Can On-site Purchase for $4.50 per bale. Mulch is also a great option, can always be delivered and installed, but prices fluctuate depending on amount and type of mulch selected. ORNAMENTAL GRASS CAN'T BE ORNAMENTAL IF YOU DON'T LET IT- Ornamental grasses are great fillers for lot's of various spaces in a landscape. But I often see that they get tired looking because they're not properly cared for. Just a simple reminder that liriope grass, pampas grass, mondo grass (these being most popular), and many others all deserve a fresh growth each season. Don't be afraid to have them cut back each year around this time, to allow for new foliage to come out and be fresh in 2017. This too should be completed before Spring officially arrives. _________________________ With 40's and chill this weekend, maybe it won't seem like time's gone in the blink of an eye. Then again.. it is the weekend, the Super Bowl's going to be on, and they're calling for 60's Mon-Wed of next week. WOW... Better give us a call and make appropriate plans before it REALLY is next month. God Bless, Steven

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Christmas Ready Landscape Tips 2016

Hi, That feeling is in the air, isn't it? Near freezing temps when you wake up, frosted surfaces, plants are dying out. Oh... You thought I was just talking about Christmas? Well, we're certainly looking ahead to Christmas in 23 days, but that Winter feeling is equally in the air if you just take a look outside. And it's funny -- There's a good number of folks that think EVERYTHING outside shuts down when it gets cold. Well, it is true that the amount of time-intensive tasks slow down tremendously, but there's plenty of items to check off the 'To Do' list before Santa comes slipping down your fireplace. Here's some of Black Dog's landscape tips that can help your Christmas be even more Merry & Bright: Be Merry, Not Hairy- At a minimum, we suggest keeping your surrounding shrubbery pruned and shaped up twice annually. The second time in the course of a season that it's great to complete this service is NOW. We're past the first frost and overall there's colder temps. This means your shrubbery won't try to promote new growth after a trim, a shrub won't have unhealthy new shoots that weren't able to harden-off before the cold, and they stay shaped until next Spring! Let Black Dog be the 'Kevin McCallister' to your shrubbery and knock 'Harry' back before your family/friends visit. We'll shape-up your shrubbery, clean-up all excess clippings, and dispose of them for you. (336-944-6618) Browning Perennials. It's Not This Year's Hot Christmas Toy You Think It Is- Irises, Lilies, Daylilies, Hosta, Peonies, Hydrangeas -- They could all be on the 'Nice' list, but at this point in the season they're calling it quits. They're all great perennial plants, that add color to your landscape when they're in bloom. But each year, when the cold moves in, they all die back. Sometimes in the off-season, adding color and giving life to your exterior landscape means that you simply remove the drab/dead from the picture. Before Christmas, it's a great time to cut these items back and remove the dead foliage. Pampas grass, liriope, and a lot of your roses can wait. Have us help for those items that cannot. (336-944-6618) Give Rudolph A Clear Runway -- Final Leaf Clean-up- Finally, we got some much needed rain. You throw in some of the high winds -- at this point most of the leaves will be coming to a close over the next couple weeks. Have Black Dog visit your home to mulch, blow, bag, remove, and clean-out all remaining leaves from your plant beds, your lawn and hard surfaces. Get them all removed now for not only a better look for your landscape, but also so they're not waiting on you next time mowers crank up. "Have Yourself A Mulchy Little Christmas"- ...Let your Yard be bright. From now on, Yard troubles will be out of sight. I'm sure you're glad that you're not having to hear me sing this to you. But if you call to place a mulch order and make requests, we may think about it. After that last leaf clean-up, your pine straw and mulch has taken a beaten. Shrubs could use some cover for the Winter cold. There's also likely bare spots to fill-in from the Browning Perennial clean-up I've already referenced. Plenty of good reasons that it's time to renew your ground cover and mulch. We deliver and install all different types of mulch and pine straw, and new installs can be completed before Christmas if you give us a call or send us an e-mail. (336-944-6618) _________________________ There's enough corny material above to help fill-up your Christmas Popcorn Tin. But seriously, these are all important items to help your home throughout this month. If there's anything Black Dog can do to help, any final Fall Clean-up orders, or any other questions you may have -- please let us know. God Bless, Steven

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Ya’ll..I Guess It’s Fall 2016 Landscape Tips

Hi, We're into October, temps haven't been breaking into the 90's, and leaves are already finding their way to the ground -- I guess it's safe to say that Fall is upon us. Great time of the year for landscaping... Great time of the year for fun with all the festivals/fairs too. Hope we can find a little time to enjoy some of both! But really, it is a VERY BUSY time for landscaping and lawn care. So busy, I'm not going to waste anymore of it and just lay out the top suggestions I can give you for this month... ____________ Want The Good Grass To Mow, Gotta Plant NOW & Let It Grow- As you may have seen about a month ago, I e-mailed my suggestion for you to get new Fescue grass installed this Fall for a better lawn next Spring. That sentiment hasn't changed, and YES...There IS STILL TIME (that time is just decreasing). Before more leaves get down, before the temps get too cool, and before you regret not improving your lawn next Spring when everyone has cabin fever -- Have Black Dog complete a new lawn over-seeding/improvement for you in the next couple weeks. It consists of core-aeration of the lawn surface, installation of Tall Fescue seed, installation of a Starter Fertilizer, installation of Lime, and any necessary soil/wheat straw. This time of the year is the EASIEST to get the good grass growing as temperatures are much less severe and keeping things hydrated is simpler. How Much Time and Your Weekends Are You Willing To Give Up- There's no way avoiding it -- Leaves are coming! The most time-intensive part of our job is probably cleaning up fallen leaves in the Fall. Because of this, I know it becomes hard for people to find the time to clean them up themselves. Black Dog offers three general methods of removal for your consideration: 1) Leaf Blowing: Blowing fallen leaves to nearby woods/a disposal area or to the curb for city pick-up 2) Leaf Mulching: Mulch mowing all fallen leaves back into the lawn surface to add more nutrients into the soil 3) Leaf Removal: Fully removing all fallen leaves from the property and disposing of them off-site If you aren't already a Year-Round agreed partner with us, DON'T assume you're automatically added to our leaf clean-up schedule. The mowing season will be winding down towards the end of this month, and at that time we will ONLY be servicing clients whom have notified us they would like leaf clean-up -- Let me know if you are one of those that would like to be on this Fall's schedule. Transplant, New Installs, & Removal. Could Be The Story For Your Plant's This Fall- In the landscape calendar, we have the fortune of seeing Two times in the year where new landscape installations are best -- Spring and Fall. There's many reasons whey these two times of the year are best.. Temperature, Hydration, Dormancy, Growing Cycles. Main point- If there are new landscape beds, plant installations, or design you are considering -- This would be the time of year to get a consultation from us. If there are plants you're looking to move or remove, the same is true. _____________ Expect more from me when you can see Thanksgiving on your flip-calendar. Shrub care, leaves leaves and more leaves, bedding for the Winter, and that final Fall fertilization are all reminders I'll be sending you next. But for now, October seems to be all about timing and I just don't want you to miss it. As always, Black Dog wants to help you so let me know if there's anything more we can do. I'm more than happy to also help answer any other questions, concerns, or give more advice. Thanks for being a great supporter of ours, and for Fall'owing some of these tips.. You won't regret it. God Bless, Steven

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2017 Over-seeding/Lawn Improvement Landscape Tips

Hi,

Did Summer fly by or what?!? I feel like the 4th just happened, and beach trips/vacations were just getting cranked up. Hope you were able to enjoy that time!

But now football is back, the kids are headed back to school... It'll be Halloween before you know it. Soon after, it's 2017.

No, I'm certainly not trying to wish our lives away. But as you can tell, time flies and preparations can't begin soon enough. Want that plush, thick lawn for next Spring season? The planning, work, and results you want -- that begins now.

This e-mail should advise you on general grass info and what Black Dog can do to help your lawn be ready in 2017. Before we go any further and you may want to spare yourself of the detail.. KNOW THIS -- WE ARE NOW SCHEDULING LAWN AERATION, OVER-SEEDING, FERTILIZATION, AND LAWN IMPROVEMENT SERVICES (336-944-6618). If we have NOT spoke with you or you're NOT a year-round service client, PLEASE CONTACT US for more info.

What kind of grass do you currently have, and what do you want?

1) Weed-heavy lawn: This is a lawn type we see more often than not. I'm here to tell you -- it's ok. And no matter where you are on the spectrum of 'don't mind some weeds' to 'can't stand em' we do have some advice.

>For those looking to make drastic improvements, it's important to remember that you've got to start somewhere. I suggest starting with an over-seeding on your lawn to get some good grass started [MORE on over-seeding TO COME], before moving on to focus on weed removal.

>For those that don't mind a few weeds, I still suggest trying to keep some "good" quality grass in your lawn. Maybe a strict fertilization program isn't necessary, but I'm certain you likely don't desire a dandelion field or a dirt bowl.

2) Fescue strong, but a little wrong: If you have a Fescue lawn that's seen some wear during the dry season or have a few areas of concern -- you are in a great spot. You likely already know the importance of ongoing annual improvement measures, so let's keep that up and things will only get stronger.

3) Bermuda or other warm season grass: This lawn type is better suited for a Spring improvement plan, but I still can't stress enough the importance of fertilizing even during the cooler seasons.

Lawn Over-seeding, Aeration, and Lime Install (the why's, how's, & when's).

From mid-September to early-November, Black Dog will be planting new grass in lawns across the Triad. This is a service I HEAVILY suggest. We have stocked 4,850lbs of Tall Fescue Seed, 5,000lbs of Starter Fertilizer, and 3,200lbs of Pelletized Lime. Needless to say, we're ready to help you. Black Dog suggests having our crew come to your property, core-aerate the entire lawn surface area, install Tall Fescue seed, install Starter Fertilizer, install Pelletized Lime -- This completes the general over-seeding process. Of course there are other measures that may need to be taken -- soil improvement with top soil, germination blankets, wheat straw install -- but at the minimum if you desire a healthier lawn this is an important step. Set up an appointment with me today.

After The Fall Install.

The grass seed is planted, so when do you expect results? Generally the germination process takes at the least 7-10 days. Still, there ARE measures you can take to help keep things healthier for the long haul: ==> Fertilization Program- Whether it's you or Black Dog, getting the lawn on a fertilization structured program is a good idea. We offer a nice treatment plan that should help develop and keep a healthy lawn; http://www.blackdoglandscapes.com/lawn-care.html ==> Watering Is Key- Keeping the seed and lawn hydrated all throughout the year is a step often avoided or forgotten. Especially right after an over-seeding, it's important to keep the lawn watered daily for the first few weeks. Afterwards, dropping the time and amount you are watering is ok', but remain keeping it hydrated all year-round. ==> Mow Like A Pro, Don't Drop It Low- The 'putting green' look is an option if you don't desire keeping quality grass in your lawn. I encourage you to keep the height the lawn is mowed at UP to allow a deeper root system in the lawn to develop, keeping the grass healthier in the hot and drought of the season. ________ Timing is very important and ongoing work is a necessity if a green, plush, healthy lawn is a part of your desired landscape. These suggestions and thoughts only scratch the surface into how much detail can be explored and discussed for your lawn. Bottom line -- Black Dog is here to help you improve, keep the status quo, or completely overhaul your lawn for the 2017 season. We just need to start NOW. Call or e-mail with any consultation appointments, questions, or quotes that we can provide. Thank you. God Bless, Steven

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First Day of Summer Landscape Tips 2016

Hi, Happy June, almost Fourth of July, to you! Hope the past few months have treated you well. Am I hearing this correctly? We weren't already into Summer?!?! The confusion of the time between Memorial day and today (mixed with our recent weather) is easy to understand. But TODAY is the official start -- It's the First Day of Summer! So with the blazing humidity, warmer temps, and overly dry conditions...  What about your grass? What needs to be done around your landscape to keep things healthy? What are the services and projects best suited for this time of year? Here's some ideas and tips that I thought may help as we're now officially into Summer: GETTING PARCHED- We haven't had a substantial rain for what feels like almost three weeks. Unless you've already been active, you know the turf around your home is desperate for a drink! So there are a couple suggestions I would give to keep your lawn's health improved during this drought.. 1. Water When You Can= You can read a lot about what time of the day and how long/often you need to be keeping the grass hydrated. My suggestion -- Do it when you can! There may be ideal times and lengths that are good for your lawn. But I've always been in the mindset that even a little is better than none. So get out and water your lawn in the evening for half an hour, and it will still be an improvement from choosing not to because there's no other convenient time. 2. Mild Fertilization= It is true that too much fertilization during a dry period can dry out your lawn even worse. But like me, a hardworking lawn gets hungry. I suggest having Black Dog come out and complete a "feeding" fertilization with a very mild fertilizer that will keep the lawn healthier, greener, and even growing during a time in the season where much of the grass is headed in the opposite direction. Our feeding fertilizations are generally inexpensive, and simply require a little watering afterwards. WHILE THE GRASS WON'T PLAY, THE SHRUBS JUST MAY- Time management around your landscape is always important to Black Dog. When other things aren't as active, it's important for us to maintain other services that may have been delayed. While the grass certainly isn't growing as often, this is a GREAT time in the season to shape up some of your shrubbery. No, it's not a great time to do any severe pruning. But Black Dog loves to keep holly's, loropetalums, and even knockout roses (along with others) shaped nicely. Give us a call to get a consult on shaping up your shrubbery to have it looking nicely maintained for the upcoming Fourth Holiday (336.944.6618). All of our pruning includes clean-up and disposal. YOU CAN'T MULCH ENOUGH- If you actively keep up with my tip e-mails (and I thank you for taking your time to do so), you'd recognize that I'm almost continuously encouraging you to keep your plant beds and natural areas mulched year-round. In the Winter, it protects plants with additional warmth. In the Spring, it gives everything a fresh look for the season. In the Fall, it's easy to cover up fallen leaves or the pruned clippings from severe shrubbery pruning. In the Summer... it really helps keep your plants and shrubbery stay hydrated. I talked a lot about the dryness in regards to your grass. But the plants need watering too, and a lot less of it if you have a good mulch or pine straw that will help hold more moisture. Here's some info on how we can help: http://www.blackdoglandscapes.com/pine-straw---mulch.html PREP FOR THE LANDSCAPE INSTALL STEP- As we slide into late Summer/early Fall, you may be thinking that adding some new shrubbery or new landscape design features are a good idea for your home. But please don't wait until the 23rd hour. Get the prep work done NOW. As our schedule of these installs builds up, get ahead in the line and begin the discussions of your interests and ideas now. It's a great time in the year to begin getting pricing and discussing details of new landscape ideas you may have. _____________________ It may have felt like it a long time ago, but your Summer can start now. We hope you get time away to enjoy on vacation or to enjoy with friends and family. Black Dog will always be here to help, even if it is called the "DOG Days"..... God Bless, Steven

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April 2016 Landscape Tips

​ Hi, I hope you had a fantastic Easter holiday last weekend! Yes, it's still Spring. And yes, it's going to get warm again... it just may not feel like it some morning's and night's this week. Have no fear... the Masters is here this next weekend, and Spring will be alive and well again (my wife is less than thrilled, I'm sure). But seriously, there's still a lot that Spring has to offer. So, I thought I would throw some more landscape tips for the season your way, in hopes that they may help and keep things cheery for you even in the midst of 32 degrees Wednesday morning: Just Say 'No'- In a few of my most recent Tip e-mails, such as this, I have talked about the importance of freshening, cleaning up, and mulching your plant beds. All of which are still great ideas as Spring rolls on (http://www.blackdoglandscapes.com/pine-straw---mulch.html). But I've had a few questions about weed control in those beds, and I feel like it's very important to pass along this next tip... When thinking about future and encroaching weeds to your maintained plant beds -- Just say 'NO' to weed barriers.  They may seem like the best idea and biggest time saver when creating a bed from scratch or installing your newest mulch. In my opinion, they're actually a far cry from that. The weed barrier you install will likely work for a period of time. But as sediment grows on-top, weeds will persistently grow on top of the barrier you spent so much time, energy, and money installing. To make matters worse, as time elapses and things erode away -- that same barrier will rip, shred, and come to the surface leaving an unsightly mess. What's Black Dog's suggestion? Renew your bedding material (rock, mulch, pine straw) on a regular basis as it will provide a natural barrier to encroaching weeds. But when weeds do appear (and they will), spot spray with a successful post-emergent weed killing solution. If you're interested in a service like this, on many cases and if we're fulfilling another service at your home at the time, Black Dog will spray all plant beds and hard surface cracks around your home for the low cost of $25 per service. Spring Seeding, Good Or Bad?- As we use this season to plant new flowers, shrubs, and trees -- our natural reaction is to assume that this would be the perfect time to throw out or plant some new grass seed as well. Good or Bad idea? Well, it all depends. Depends on a few different factors... -What type of grass seed are you planting? -Do you have an irrigation system? -Do you have a lot of shade or trees? -Are you going to spend the busy Summer season to give it plenty of T.L.C? If planting Fescue seed, in a lawn without an irrigation system, that gets blazed by the sun -- I wouldn't suggest this season to be ideal for planting. Wait until early Fall when the climate is less severe. If planting Bermuda, Zoysia, or Centipede seed -- Go for it and take advantage of the warmer temperatures to come. If you're considering planting new seed or have questions on appropriate timing, please give us a call (336-944-6618). But I would suggest using this season for proper fertilization to improve grass quality, rather than spending costly money and time on creating newly germinated turf. Landscape Installs- In some respects, the slide of the temperature gauge back to reality is a good thing. In March, when we rushed to upper 70's like a rocket, it was exciting. But it did create a false panic that our window to get new plants in the ground was closing fast. April is a GREAT time for new landscape design, new plants, and natural areas installs. Black Dog works with great nursery's, and we're able to design, install, and complete your project from planning to the finish line. Looking Like Part Of The Crew- If you were bored with all the other landscaping talk -- here's some EXCITING NEWS... Black Dog is now offering you a chance to look like you're part of our crew (example seen above)! ON SALE NOW: T-shirts, Hats, Pull-overs, Sweatshirts, and more. We have an array of sizes and colors of merchandise for our fans. All you have to do is: simply give us a call (336-944-6618) or e-mail us with your interest in a product, and we will let you know what sizes and colors are available. T-shirts (short sleeve) $18.00 T-shirts (long sleeve) $28.00 Hats $20.00 etc. We will be adding a page to our website (http://blackdoglandscapes.com) with our available fan merchandise shortly. ----------------------------------------- "A tradition unlike any other" next weekend will remind that it's definitely still Spring. I hope you're able to enjoy, and I hope that these tips help with ideas and plans you may have for your home's exterior. Thank you for being a friend, and if Black Dog can ever help -- don't hesitate to let us know. God Bless, Steven

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March 2016 Landscape Tips

Hi, The official start to Spring is only TWO weeks away, but the temps this week... the temps are looking like Spring is here early. If you're anything like me, you want to be ahead of the curve. You want to be ahead on all your "chores" so you can be ready to kick back and enjoy when the timing's right. I personally don't want to be using every 75 degree Saturday of the Spring to clean out my flower beds, install fresh ground cover, and pressure wash the deck. Give me some time on the golf course, to go fishing, or get out of town -- right!?!? Here's some landscape tips and suggestions that I hope will help, and of course you know you can always contact Black Dog so we can keep you ahead of that curve! Last Chance To Play Initial Defense- Last month I mentioned the importance of timing in defending against future weed problems in your lawn throughout the Spring season. Ideally, you heeded the warning if your a stickler for those unsightly growths in your turf. But time does slip away, so here's your last chance... To get a Spring pre-emergent on your lawn before the weeds really start cranking, you need to act now and have it completed this week (March 7-11). The temps are already on the rise, as I mentioned, so if you miss this opportunity you're going to be playing catch-up. (http://www.blackdoglandscapes.com/lawn-care.html) Building The 2016 Service List- It may seem weird, but I personally wish there was a cologne or car scent called "Fresh Cut Grass" to hold me over during the off-season. But I guess it's not long at all till we're all getting the natural aroma as soon as we step outdoors. Black Dog will begin our ongoing Full Service Mowing schedule the week of March 21-25. Unless you're a year-round client of Black Dog, we're looking to add you to our service list. There are a few options we generally use: 1. One-time Mowing's= If you're going out of town, on vacation, hosting a big event at your home, or simply unable to get around to it one week -- contact us to set up a service for your home on a one-time basis. 2. Bi-weekly or Weekly Service= When it's 95 and 80% humidity in the Summer, a lot of people are glad the lawn's maintained on someone else's sweat. We will simply visit your home on a set rotation during the entire growing season. 3. You Mow -- We Trim And Blow= Some folks really like to get out and mow. It's therapeutic and get's them their exercise at the same time. But those clean edges, the neat trimming, and detailed blowing once everything's complete -- it's just too tedious for some. We'll be happy to come in and simply tidy up the details, while you manage the mowing. If you'd like a FREE estimate or to be added to our 2016 service schedule -- call or e-mail ASAP. ***Important Note: Unless you're a year-round client, just because you were on our 2015 rotation does NOT automatically mean we assume you're on our 2016 rotation. Please let us know if you'd like to renew this, and we will try our best to reach out to all of you whom we worked with last season.*** New Landscape Design/Plant Install- Two times in the year is it really ideal for plants to go in the ground -- Fall and Spring. Less water, less stress, and more success. If you have design ideas, we can consult and draw it up. Want new plant installs to have the most success so you're not wasting time and money? Choose to plant this month (March), and choose Black Dog to help you give those plants, flowers, and shrubs the appropriate attention necessary. A Fresh BBQ & Family Friendly Hangout- As you can see in the above picture, if you leave a deck alone long enough.. it becomes GREEN with envy. We don't heavily advertise it. It's not an every week, every month, every year, or always urgent type of activity you should even consider. However, Black Dog can pressure wash. We've had several recently ask about this, and we generally focus on decks, driveways, patios, sidewalks, etc. For me, it's the deck that I suggest needs it most every few years and we'll be happy to get it clean for all those upcoming barbecues. Like To Install Your Own Straw?- The timing's now perfect to get the plant beds refreshed with beautiful color. Mulch, pine straw, or rock -- Black Dog love's to deliver and install all various ground cover options for your natural areas. But if you're someone that likes to purchase and install your own bales of pine needles -- BUY and PICK-UP directly from Black Dog. We always have bales in-stock, and we'll even deliver to your home! ----------------------------------- This time of year could really be my favorite. The color around landscape's comes back, the weather gets warmer, and like I already told you... I'm partial to that fresh mowed grass scent. In all the hustle to get your landscape ready for the time of year where you'll most enjoy it -- consider these above ideas and services. Black Dog will help keep you ahead so you can enjoy it while the timing's right. God Bless, Steven --> FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM TO SEE SOME OF OUR LATEST WORK: https://www.instagram.com/blackdoglawncareandlandscapes/ --> LIKE/FRIEND US ON FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/blackdoglandscapes

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February (early Spring) Landscape Tips 2016

Hi, The groundhog has spoken.... If you buy that sort of prediction, we get AN EARLY SPRING! Exciting to think about, but either way it'll be here before we know it. And even more pressing, there's early Spring services that are very time sensitive and approaching quickly. I thought I would pass along some of these things to consider before the ideal window of time passes, and to give you ample planning time to contact Black Dog so we can add it to our schedule. Pre-Emerge While It's Still Cold!- It's very important and VERY time sensitive if you want as close to a weed-free/healthy lawn as you can get... That's completing a pre-emergent fertilization before those weed seeds in the lawn really start cranking. The ideal timing window? Last couple weeks of February to the first week into March. We, at Black Dog, recommend and offer a 5 step fertilization program for best lawn results. But no matter your existing conditions, or if you just want to pick and choose which lawn feedings you want to do -- an early Spring fertilization is vital. This pre-emergent fertilization is designed to block future weeds from encroaching into your lawn surface. But any early feeding will reinvigorate your grass as the season begins, it will strengthen it's health before we get into dry times throughout the Summer, and it helps the lawn to go back to green much quicker. Want to join our program or get more info? ---> http://www.blackdoglandscapes.com/lawn-care.html It's Not Crape Murder- Before the first foliage starts popping as Spring awakes, NOW is the best time to prune back your ornamental trees like Crape Myrtles. With Crape Myrtles specifically, there's a "right" and a "wrong" way to prune them. However, we'll trim them whichever way you'd like and it's NEVER an easy task. Most Crape Myrtles shoot out a considerable amount of new growth each year, some can be very full, and a lot of them grow nice and tall. For best blooming results -- Get them pruned each year, and get them pruned before things begin budding. (336-944-6618) Don't "Monkey" Around- Liriope (aka Monkey Grass), old Tulips, Hydrangeas, Peonies, and other plants that have drooped or died back during the Winter -- It's best to have those cut back before Spring too. Most of these items will do best with a fresh haircut so all the foliage is new and strong. Great Time To Bed Edge- If you're the same as, I'd say, 75% of the landscape-loving population, we know you're going to renew your mulch, pine straw, top-soil, rock, or whatever ground-cover you decide to use in your plant bed areas. And you're smart to do so: Thing's erode over time, it gives your beds a fresh color, and keeps plants healthier. But there's a little prep work, if you haven't already, that we suggest to help keep your beds and natural areas looking sharp. That's Bed Edging. Black Dog can help you cut edged beds in, curl and tuck pine straw, install rock and retaining wall borders, or use landscape edging strips. Whichever you choose, complete the initial installation of the bed edging now, THEN renew the ground cover for a fresh Spring look. --------------------------- No matter if it's an early or late Spring, it's always better to plan and stay ahead. I hope that Black Dog can help with whatever your needs are. Please let me know if you have any questions, or if you would like to schedule any of our services and consultations. Enjoy the rest of Winter. God Bless, Steven

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January 2016 Landscape Tips!

Hi, We hope 2016 is off to a great start for you, and that everything's going well! All of a sudden, it certainly feels like January, the New Year, and Winter in the Triad. But what does that mean for your lawn and the landscape around your home? What should you know about the care and maintenance your landscape needs during the Winter? Go into hibernation?! Ride out the Winter until it's safe to wear White and watch the Masters?! No. Not our ideas if you want the best success and the best results for the landscaping around your home. Here's some helpful tips, thoughts, and services that we think will help you for this Winter.... ______ Unseasonably Warm, Then The Chill- For much of December, and the early start to this Winter, we've seen unseasonably warm conditions. I personally don't complain when it's shorts-weather on Christmas, and you probably noticed that much of the grass didn't either. Fescue lawns saw a resurgence in growth during December, and there's a good chance it left things patchy, taller in some areas, and in-need of a trim or cut. HOWEVER, now that the temps have dropped below freezing overnight and many mornings -- It's very important to be cautious when mowing your lawn in the "off-season." -Pick a day that has at least normal temperatures for this time of year. -Allow the frost to burn off of the lawn surface before mowing. -Stay away from heavy machinery and equipment to complete the service. If your lawn needs any additional service this Winter, Black Dog will come to your home and Push Mow the entire lawn insuring the least amount of stress is put on the grass. At the least, for a finished look, we suggest having us come by to Edge and Trim around your home to leave things crisp until next season. Weeds Love Every Season- While some of your grass may finally be finished growing, it's the weeds that never seem to stop. A lot of other items around your exterior can remain untouched during the cold season, but NOT the weeds or things look ragged. For natural areas, have Black Dog: -Come and spray a post-emergent treatment for weeds in cracks of your hard surfaces and natural areas when the temps are appropriate (above 41 degrees) -Our crew will come to your home and pull weeds at the root for permanent removal For weeds in the lawn surface, ask Black Dog: -About our year-round treatment plans or a consultation for your lawn Seen All The Mattress Stores? "Bed'ing" Is Important- Natural area beds around your landscape will always need attention. It never really stops when you have to renew the ground-cover you use, remove unwanted weeds, complete new plant installations, or maybe even an entirely new landscape design. So there's TWO things that the Winter is the BEST time to complete: -Do you want an entirely new landscape design around your home, or are you considering new plant installations in the Spring? We can come to your home, plan, and design the best choices for natural area installations -- And it's never to early to begin the planning process. -A two-for-one is always a plus when you can get a renewal in color AND protection for those costly flowers and plants from the cold. Contact us, to find out information about renewing the ground-cover for your beds -- http://www.blackdoglandscapes.com/pine-straw---mulch.html If It Snows..We Can Help- Snow is always really pretty to look at when it falls. That is, until you need to get to work or get somewhere outside of your home. Black Dog (seen above) will be plowing throughout any snow event, but with proper planning before the storm, we could even help pre-salt your hard surfaces. ______ We hope if you have any questions, concerns, or ideas for your landscape, that you will give us a call (336-944-6618). It's always a pleasure working with you, and we certainly hope you stay warm! God Bless, Steven

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Happy New Year 2016!

Hi, Happy New Year 2016 from Sailor, and all your friends at Black Dog! Before we look forward to another great year with you, I would like to thank you for making 2015 a very special year for Black Dog. We thank you for supporting us, as this last year was a year of tremendous success. We hope that for many years to come, including this New Year, we can continue to work with you in helping around your landscape in any way that we can. As it always is, if there's ever a way that Black Dog can serve you, your family, or your friends -- please let us know. And we look forward to seeing what 2016 has in-store for all of us. God Bless, Steven

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Merry Christmas 2015 from Black Dog!

Hi, Merry Christmas to you, your friends, and all your family! Black Dog hopes that you are having a great Christmas time this year. It's a great way to wrap up 2015 celebrating with your friends and family, and we hope you're able to enjoy it. I would also like to pass along my thanks to you for all your support for us. We enjoy working with you so much, and can't express enough of our thanks to you. Please remember we're always here to help, so please let us know if there's ever anything we can do. "And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. 11 For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord." -Luke 2: 9-11 God Bless, Steven

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Happy Thanksgiving to You and Your Family!

Happy Thanksgiving! Everyone at Black Dog would like to wish you, your friends, and your family a very Happy Thanksgiving. We hope you enjoy the food, fellowship, and football later this afternoon (Go Panthers!). But I also hope we would all take a moment to give thanks for the many blessings we all have, and should be grateful for. Psalm 105:1- "Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done." God Bless, Steven

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NEW Site. Same Great Service

Hi, We hope you all had a very Happy Halloween holiday, and if you're anything like Sailor you're probably counting down the days till you're gnawing on a turkey bone. I'd like to make this short and to the point... Because you're such a good friend of ours, and we value your support in being one of our clients -- We thought we would share some exciting news with you first. Black Dog Lawn Care & Landscapes has just launched a NEW website. We hope the new site allows for a more easy-to-use, friendly experience for all of our visitors, and we definitely hope you enjoy it! Check it out NOW: http://blackdoglandscapes.com Nothing else has changed, and I'd like to let you know that we hope to work diligently in providing all of our friends with the best quality and customer service that we can. If you ever have any needs, questions, or concerns -- please let me know and I will make certain it's resolved. God Bless, Steven