As winter ends and we see spring come, April and May is big for Oregon homeowners. Days grow longer, the ground softens, and the weather gets better, making it a great time to think about yard upgrades. If you want to change your yard, now’s the time.

The Best Time: April and May to Early Summer

From April, May and through early summer, there’s a special time for new projects in Oregon. Jobs haven’t peaked yet, so it’s easier to book good local builders. Starting now means you’ll enjoy your new space all summer. Ground conditions are also best, spring rains and mild days are great for work like patios, decks, and more. Whether you want big builds or small fixes, this is the best time to start.

Top Outdoor Construction Projects to Start Now

If you want to improve your yard, here are some top project planning for landscapers in Eugene to start now:

• Decks: Fun place for the sun.
• Patios and paths: Add beauty and use to your yard.
• Pergolas, fences, and shade: Style and privacy for the yard.
• Outside kitchens and fire pits: Use the yard all year.

These upgrades boost your home’s look and add value.

Permits & Planning: Get Ahead of the Rush

A smart move this spring is to start your planning early. From getting permits to finding the right stuff, April and May gives you a head start before the summer rush. Working with a lawn professional in Eugene Oregon can save time, cut stress, and help you dodge delays. The sooner you start, the smoother your job will go—and the sooner you’ll see the results.

Budgeting for Spring Projects

Spring construction doesn’t have to mean a major upfront investment. Many landscapers offer phased or staged construction options. For example, you might install a deck now and add a built-in firepit later in the season.

Other budgeting tips include:

• Planning ahead to lock in pricing before summer demand drives costs up
• Prioritizing essential features and adding aesthetic upgrades over time
• Choosing locally sourced materials to keep costs down without sacrificing quality

Why Work with a Local Expert

When it comes to landscaping in Eugene, and experience with Oregon’s unique weather patterns and soil conditions makes all the difference. A local team understands the terrain, has relationships with regional suppliers, and can tailor designs that work beautifully with your property’s natural features.

Whether you're planning custom builds or a full new construction project, partnering with a local pro to ensure your vision comes to life smoothly and sustainably. Ready to make your outdoor space the envy of the neighborhood? Warmer weather means our project calendar is filling fast.

April is an exciting month for gardening as it marks the start of the growing season. With temperatures rising, the promise of new life and blooming flowers is just around the corner. It's essential to focus on your outside space now so that you can set yourself up for a productive summer. Ensure that you follow these steps for a hardy landscape:

1. Lawn Care Tips

• Mowing: Now that the grass is growing, you'll want to start mowing at the appropriate height to ensure healthy growth in your lawn. Setting the lawn mower to the proper height keeps the grass in better condition, and helps it grow stronger throughout the season.
  
• Spring Fertilization: Use a spring fertilizer to help develop a stronger root system and enhanced green color. This gives an awakening to your lawn after being dormant through the winter months.
• Overseeding and Aeration: Cure any winter damage by overseeding bare spots and aerating the soil. This paves the way for a thick, stronger lawn by enhancing the root's ability to make the soil their home.

2. Garden Preparation

• Clear Debris: Clean the garden of dry leaves, weeds, and any other material leftover from winter to prevent harmful insects and bacteria from growing. Additionally, this practice can help in creating more space for young plants.
  
• Soil Enrichment: Loosen up your flower beds or vegetable patch using a fork, and loosen them . Add enriched compost or organic matter that breaks down over time and improves the structure and nutrient content of the soil. Trust me, it will enable you to nurture better flowers.soils plants if they're fed this way.
• Start Planting : Stick with hardy flowers and vegetables that are especially suited to cool spring weather. The best plants to start in April include your: Peas, strawberries, and daffodils.

3. Pruning and Tree Care

• Trim Shrubs and Trees: Give your shrubs and trees that all-important trim to create the perfect outline just when new growth is about to start. This will promote a stronger growth and make sure the basic skeleton of your garden is in great shape.
  
• Get rid of the Winter Damage: Take stock of all the branches that have been damaged by the snow and rub them off before they open the door for any other pests or disease.
• Pro care: For larger bushes and trees, we suggest getting an expert tree care service. With a professional tree care service, your plants will receive the correct treatment and be adequately taken care of.

4. Irrigation and Watering Tips

• Inspect and Repair the Irrigation System: Spring is here and your lawn needs a little TLC! Inspect and repair your irrigation system to make your grass and garden happy for the growing season.
  
• Set Up a Watering Schedule: To optimize growth for your plants, now is the time to get into the groove of a consistent watering schedule depending on their requirements and the local rainfall.
• Mulch Everything: Mulch doesn’t just look pretty, it helps retain moisture in the soil and keeps down the weeds. Apply a healthy layer of mulch to your garden beds to keep them hydrated.

5. Hardscape and Outdoor Living Enhancements

• Patios and Walkways: Take a good look at patios, decks, and walkways for any damages. Make sure to keep your outdoor living space in the best possible condition by getting any repairs done.
  
• Add Landscape Features: If you’ve desired a fire pit or some added garden paths, maybe even some decorative stones, now’s the time to implement them. There’s no better time to plan and add these features.
• Clean and Revamp the Outdoor Furniture: Bring out all of your cushions, tables, and chairs to give the outdoor area that fresh feeling. Before the heat rolls in, your backyard wouldn’t be the same without them.

Don't let your garden struggles keep you from jumping into spring early! If you have garden preparation questions or concerns, we're here to help. Whether you're looking for a beautiful landscaping design opportunity, some spring yard care tips, or are in need of our maintenance expertise—or have an exciting project in mind that deserves our attention—we'd be more than happy to assist you.

There are many benefits to mulching your garden. But, when is the best time to lay down mulch? Mulching is a great way to increase the beauty and health of your garden, but if you put it down the proper way your efforts will pay off even more. Many homeowners wonder when to apply mulch for the greatest benefits. Timing is key, and in Oregon, there’s an optimal window to get the most out of your mulch application.

Why Mulching Matters

• Mulch does more than just make your garden look neat—it gives important benefits for your yard:
  
• Makes Soil Better – Organic mulch breaks down over time, adding nutrients to the soil.
• Keeps Moisture – A good layer of mulch helps soil keep moisture, so you water less often.
• Stop Weeds – Mulch stops weed seeds from starting to grow.
• Keeps Soil Temperature Even – Mulch keeps plant roots safe from big changes in temperature in hot summers and cold winters.

The Best Time to Mulch in Oregon

The best time to put mulch down in Oregon is mid to late April. Here’s why:

• By April, the ground is warm enough to help plants grow well. Mulching in the spring keeps moisture in the soil before Oregon's dry summer starts.
  
• Putting mulch down early helps stop weeds before they grow big, which makes caring for your garden easier.
• If you mulch too soon, when the ground is still cold, it can slow plant growth. But if you wait too long, you lose moisture and weeds can start to grow.

Types of Mulch to Use

There are two main types of mulch: organic and inorganic.

Organic Mulch (best for Oregon landscapes)

• Bark Mulch – A good option that breaks down slowly, making the soil better over time.
  
• Compost – Gives nutrients to the soil while making its structure better.
• Wood Chips – Great for pathways and around trees or bushes, offering long-lasting cover.

Inorganic Mulch

• Gravel or Rock – Helps with water flow but doesn't help soil health.
  
• Rubber Mulch – Lasts a long time but doesn't have the natural benefits of organic mulch.
• For most Oregon gardens, organic mulch is the best choice because it helps the soil's fertility while giving all the benefits of mulching.

Mulching Tips for Best Results

To mulch properly, keep these tips in mind:

• Put Mulch at the Correct Depth – 2 to 4 inches works best for most garden beds. Too much can choke plant roots, too little won't shield enough.
• Don't Let Mulch Pile Up – Keep it away from tree trunks and plant bases to avoid rot and bugs.
• Add New Mulch When Needed – Mulch breaks down over time. Put a new layer on each year to keep it working well.
• Pick Good Mulch – Use a type that fits well with your soil and plants for the best outcomes.

Mulching is key to keeping your garden healthy and looking great. In Oregon, April is the best time for mulching to help your plants do well. Applying mulch the right way helps the soil, keeps water in, and stops weeds from growing.

If you’re not sure when to mulch or if you need help, our professional landscaping team is ready to help. Contact us today for great mulching services and keep your garden looking good all year!

As the days get longer and it gets warmer, it's the perfect moment to fix up your outdoor area and prepare your garden for the coming months. Spring is the best time for seasonal planting of new things to make sure your yard is full of new flowers, healthy plants, and a lively outdoor space. Whether you want to redo your flower beds, make your grass better, or put in new things to look at, now is the time to start. Here's how to get your garden ready for this planting season and make a beautiful yard!

1. Start with a Spring Landscape Design Plan

A good garden starts with a smart plan in spring. Think about how you want your outside area to look and be used—maybe you want bright flowers, a neat place to sit, or a mix of plants and stone paths. Planning early helps you choose the right plants and make a nice, well-matched space.

2. Revitalize Your Soil for Healthy Growth

Winter can make the soil hard and low on nutrients. Before planting for the season, break up the soil and mix in compost or natural elements. Doing a soil test can also show if extra nutrients or lime are needed to help roots grow strong and keep plants healthy.

3. Refresh Your Lawn with Spring Lawn Care

A healthy lawn is key to a great yard. Spring lawn care means making tight soil loose, adding seeds to thin spots, and using a slow fertilizer to help grow thick, green grass. Cutting the grass often and watering right will keep your lawn looking fresh as time goes on.

4. Enhance Your Garden with Mulching Services

Putting mulch down is a simple way to make your garden better. Mulching helps keep water in, keeps soil at the right temperature, and stops weeds from growing. Put a 2-3 inch layer of natural mulch around trees, bushes, and garden beds to help the soil and cut down on work during the season.

5. Incorporate Seasonal Planting for Year-Round Beauty

To keep your garden bright and interesting all year, plan your plant choices well. Include plants that bloom early, like tulips and daffodils, and ones that bloom in the summer, like coneflowers and black-eyed Susans. This way, you'll have flowers and a lively garden through all the seasons.

6. Upgrade Your Outdoor Space with Landscape Renovation

If your garden or yard looks old, it's a great time for a landscape makeover. Maybe you want to put in a new patio, swap out big plants, or build walls for better shape. These changes can make your space work better and look nicer from the street. A skilled landscape designer can help you turn your ideas into reality.

7. Install an Efficient Irrigation System

A good irrigation system helps your plants get enough water while saving water. Whether you use drip irrigation, soaker hoses, or a sprinkler system, setting up the right watering methods now will keep your landscape healthy with little effort.

8. Keep Your Garden Safe from Bugs and Weeds

Spring is when many bugs and weeds start to show up. Watch for early signs of bugs eating plants or weeds that grow fast. Using natural ways to control pests and treatments that stop weeds before they grow can help keep your garden safe from big problems.

With the right spring garden look, planting for the season, and care for your lawn, your garden will grow well and make your outside area look beautiful all season. Need a pro's help? Graham Landscape & Design is an expert in services for mulching, fixing up landscapes, and all needs for spring gardening. Call us today to make your garden look its best.

As winter slowly fades away and signs of spring start showing, March is almost here and it's an exciting time in the garden. For gardeners in Oregon, this month is all about getting ready, planting, and keeping up the garden to make sure it thrives all season. Whether you've been gardening for a long time or are just starting, here's your must-do list for March in the garden.

1. Clean Up and Prep Your Garden Beds

• Take out any left dead leaves, sticks, and plants from garden beds and yards.
  
• Cut down perennials that were up for winter fun.
  
• Trim roses, fruit trees, and bushes before they start to grow.
• Put compost or old manure in the soil to make it better.
  

2. Start Seeds Indoors

• Start planting seeds for cool-weather crops like lettuce, spinach, kale, and peas.
  
• Begin warm-weather veggies inside, like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, to move them out in late spring.
• Think about using grow lights to help seedlings grow strong and healthy.

3. Plant Early Spring Vegetables

• As the ground starts to warm up, plant tough veggies like carrots, radishes, onions, and beets directly into the soil.
  
• Put broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage young plants in the ground.
• If it might get cold again, cover young plants with row covers.

4. Lawn Care and Maintenance

• Clean up any leftover leaves and grass to help air flow better.
  
• Fill in bare spots with new seeds and give your lawn an early spring feed.
• Begin mowing as needed, but keep the mower blade high to help roots grow strong.

5. Check Irrigation Systems

• Look over drip lines, hoses, and sprinkler heads for any damage.
  
• Check if your system works well before the dry weather comes.
• Think about making improvements, like adding a rain barrel to save water.

6. Prune and Maintain Trees & Shrubs

• Finish cutting fruit trees before the buds appear to help them make more fruit.
  
• Cut off broken or dead branches from decorative trees and bushes.
• Don’t cut spring-flowers like lilacs and rhododendrons too much, or they won’t bloom well.

7. Prepare for Pollinators

• Plant flowers that bloom early such as crocus, daffodils, and hellebores to help bees and other pollinators.
  
• Stay away from using chemicals that could hurt helpful bugs.
• Set out a shallow dish with stones for bees to use as a water spot.

8. Tackle Weeds Before They Take Over

• Lay down mulch to stop weeds and keep the ground moist.
  
• Pull weeds by hand before they spread seeds.
• Use a weed preventer where you won’t be planting seeds.

9. Plan and Design Your Garden

• Draw your garden to make sure there's enough room and you change crops.
  
• Buy the seeds, bulbs, or plants you'll need for planting later.
• Think about adding new things like higher planting beds, climbing frames, or walkways.

10. Enjoy the Transition to Spring

• Go around your garden and see what is starting to grow.
  
• Write down what went well last time and what you want to get better.
• Imagine sunny days and all you'll gather!

March brings new beginnings and following these steps now will help your garden be beautiful and give a lot when it's time.

Although February brings winter vibes in full swing, the month also serves as a great opportunity for landscaping lovers in the Oregon area to fine tune their skills as spring approaches. From garden maintenance happening this February to spring landscape preparation, here’s your essential checklist to ensure your yard is healthy and in tip top shape.

Winter Pruning for Healthy Growth

Shaping and pruning trees and shrubs while in dormancy is a great practice to ensure healthy growth. Some winter pruning tips include removing damaged or dead branches, shaping overgrown plants, and trimming fruit trees for a better yield in the warmer months.

Refresh and Prepare Your Soil

A lush, thriving landscape starts with healthy and nutrient-rich soil. That is why its essential to begin soil preparation in February so the plants can soak in all the nutrients they need. Work compost into your garden beds, test soil ph, and add amendments where its needed most to facilitate plant health.

Early Spring Planting Looks Promising

Certain plants are bound to warmer weather, however, hardier vegetables and flowers can be planted at this time. Consider planting flowers such as kale and primroses and other greens as it will beautify the landscape.

Take Care of Winters Lawn

Even though grass isn’t growing, proper lawn maintenance in winter guarantees thick grass in spring. Remember to clean the grass off the leaves and other debris, cut when needed on sunny days, and refrain from walking on frozen grass too much.

Landscaping Comes Next

This is a good opportunity to begin planning the spring landscaping. New hardscapes, irrigation systems, or plants can be added to the space to enhance it before the growing season starts.

Following these strategies in landscape development during February aids in the establishment of vibrant and healthy vegetation throughout the year for the residents of Oregon.

Winter in Eugene, Oregon offers unique challenges and opportunities for gardeners and homeowners alike. Whether the goal is to maintain the garden's health, prepare for spring, or enjoy some winter blooms and plants, these garden and landscaping tips for January and February will help keep your outdoor spaces vibrant and well kept.

1. Pruning for Healthy Growth

Winter is an excellent time to prune trees and shrubs. With plants in dormancy, you can: Remove dead branches to curb the spread of pests and diseases to your trees. Shape trees and shrubs to foster healthy growth in the spring. Prune fruit trees to improve yield and ease of access. Always use clean, sharp tools, and consider consulting an expert  arborist for larger trees or more intricate pruning needs in your yard.

2. Plan and Design Your Landscape

While your garden is at rest, take the opportunity to plan your landscape for the upcoming year: Evaluate your garden’s layout and pinpoint areas that could use more improvement. Work with a licensed landscape architect near your area to create new features or refresh existing ones. Embrace sustainable practices, such as choosing native plants and implementing efficient irrigation systems.

3. Planting Winter-Friendly Options

January and February are great times to give your garden some life: Plant bare-root roses and fruit trees, since they’ll root before spring. Think about winter-blooming plants like hellebores, witch hazel, or snowdrops for colors in your garden. Add mulch to garden beds to keep roots safe and improve soil health during this season.

4. Protect Your Garden from Frost

Oregon’s frosty mornings can harm plants, so take some steps to properly shield them: Use frost cloths or burlap to cover sensitive plants in your garden. Don’t prune frost-damaged leaves until new growth appears in spring.

5. Maintain Hardscapes and Outdoor Features

Don’t forget about your hardscape during winter months: Check pathways, patios, and walls for frost or water damage. Clean and store outdoor furniture to keep it from wearing out or have some damage due to winter moisture. Check irrigation systems and winterize pipes to avoid freezing or breaking..

6. Consider Professional Help

If winter landscaping feels overwhelming, call in the experts:

Graham Landscape and Design offers great seasonal services, including winter pruning, irrigation winterization, and design consultations. We also work with experienced arborists to ensure the health and safety of your trees.

Winter doesn’t mean neglecting your garden—it’s an opportunity to prepare for a beautiful outdoor space in the months to come. Contact us to learn how we can help you make the most of your winter landscaping efforts.

Winter doesn't mean your garden has to sleep! With the right flowers, you can bring bright color and life to your outdoor spaces, even in the cold months. At Graham Landscape and Design, your trusted pros in landscaping in Eugene, Oregon, we’re here to help you keep your garden lively year-round. If you need lawn care, winter tips, or ideas for your yard, these top 10 winter blooms will make your winter garden beautiful.

1. Hellebores (Lenten Rose)

Hellebores, known for being tough, bloom in late winter with pink, white, and purple flowers. These strong plants do well in shade and are great for adding color under trees.

2. Camellias

Camellias are green all year and have lovely rose-like flowers from fall to winter. Their shiny leaves make them a good pick for gardens.

3. Winter Jasmine

This bright yellow climber adds cheer to any winter garden. Easy to look after, winter jasmine can bring a splash of color to walls or trellises.

4. Snowdrops

These small white flowers bloom in late winter, showing that spring is near. Snowdrops work well for borders and in lawns.

5. Pansies

Pansies are a winter favorite, with many bright colors. They’re great for pots or adding color to winter flower beds.

6. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a small tree with scented blooms in yellow, orange, or red. It’s a unique feature in any yard.

7. Cyclamen

Cyclamen has heart-shaped leaves and bright pink or red flowers, making it a top choice for winter gardens. They do well in pots and shady garden spots.

8. Winterberry Holly

For a bold look in winter, winterberry holly is great with its red berries. These shrubs are perfect for adding a festive touch to your yard work.

9. Primroses

These happy flowers come in many colors and can bloom even in cold weather. Primroses work well for edging paths and garden beds.

10. Evergreen Candytuft

This short plant blooms with bunches of white flowers and stays green all year, making it a good choice for winter gardens.

Tips for Winter Gardening Success

• To get the best from your winter blooms, proper prep is key. Here are tips to keep your garden healthy and bright:
• Winter Care: Protect your plants by using mulch and making sure they drain well.
• Watering: Check your watering systems so they don't freeze and keep your plants well-watered.
• Lawn Tasks: Do basic lawn tasks like raking leaves and fixing bare spots in your yard.
• Yard Upkeep: Regular tasks like pruning and clearing debris will keep your garden neat.

Want to boost your winter garden? Contact Graham Landscape and Design for all your landscaping, irrigation or winterization needs. From yard care and winter prep to watering solutions, we’re here to help you make a great outdoor space that shines in any season.

It is the season that offers cheer, reunions, and festivities. Now in all the holiday buzz, outdoor areas are often forgotten. As much as we all love the holiday spirit, we also love our yards. With the holidays fast approaching, these are some of the landscaping essentials to keep in mind this time of year:

1. Holiday Cheer for Your Curb Appeal:

• Seasonal Plants: Brighten up your entry with bold poinsettias, evergreens, and colorful winter plants.
  
• Light Up Your Landscape: Drape string of twinkling lights on trees, shrubs and your walkways. Use solar lanterns or solar spotlights to highlight special features.
  
• Seasonal Wreaths & Garlands – Hang cheerful wreaths on your front door, adorn your porch railings with holiday garlands.

2. Winterize Your Lawn & Garden:

• Protect Your Plants: To provide your fragile winter plants protection from freezing temperatures and strong winds, wrap them in burlap or frost cloth.
• Water Wisely: As the ground begins to freeze, cut back on watering. However, make sure to give your plants a deep soak before the ground hardens to help them endure the winter.
• Irrigation Winterization: To prevent damage, prepare your irrigation system for winter. To protect your pipes from freezing and possible contamination, this entails winterizing the system and making sure backflow prevention is in place..

3. Holiday Safety Tips:

• Secure Decorations: Ensure that your holiday decorations are securely fastened to prevent mishaps or damage from falling objects.
• Clear Walkways: To lower the chance of slips and falls, keep your steps and pathways clear of ice and snow. For de-icing, you might want to use sand or salt.
  
• Check for Fire Hazards: Stay alert to potential fire hazards, particularly when using candles and outdoor lighting.

4. Let Us Help!

Too busy or too exhausted to do these things yourself? Our group is here to assist you! We provide a variety of landscaping services in Eugene and other Oregon cities, such as:

• Installation of Lighting: With expert lighting displays, we can turn your yard into a mystical winter paradise.
• Holiday Plant Arrangements: Our experts can design and install stunning holiday planters and arrangements to enhance your curb appeal.
  
• Winterization Services: We can help you prepare your lawn and garden for the winter months with services like aeration, overseeding, and winter plant protection.

Let us handle your holiday landscaping so you can concentrate on enjoying the festivities with your family and friends. Reach out to us today for a complimentary consultation! Graham Landscape & Design - Spreading Holiday Cheer, One Yard at a Time!

December marks a critical turning point for landscaping in Oregon. The cold weather and possible frost can pose challenges for even the best-kept outdoor areas. That's why it's crucial to prepare your landscape for winter—not just to safeguard your investment, but also to ensure a vibrant garden and yard when spring arrives. Let’s explore some important strategies for winterizing your property and making the most of this season.

Winterizing Your Landscape

The initial step in protecting your outdoor environment is to shield your plants and garden beds from freezing conditions. Providing freeze protection for your plants is essential to ensure their well-being during the colder months. Here are some effective methods to do so:

• Mulch Your Beds: A thick layer of organic mulch insulates the soil, keeping roots protected from frost.
• Cover Delicate Plants: Use frost cloths or burlap to protect sensitive shrubs and perennials.

An essential job is to winterize your irrigation system. If water stays in the pipes, it might freeze and expand causing expensive harm. To prevent this:

• Draining and blowing out your irrigation lines.
• Insulating above-ground pipes and faucets.
• Shutting off water supply to outdoor spigots.
• Hardscape Maintenance and Installation

Ever thought about tackling hardscape projects in winter? The ground tends to be more stable then making it a great time to put in long-lasting features that boost your yard's usefulness and appeal. Here are some ideas to think about:

• Adding patios and walkways to create a cozy space for winter fire pits or gatherings.
• Installing retaining walls to manage sloped areas and prevent soil erosion during rainy weather.
• Hardscaping now means you’ll avoid the springtime rush and have your outdoor spaces ready when warmer weather returns.

Custom Carpentry for Outdoor Spaces

Use the slower winter months to enhance your outdoor space with beautiful structures. Whether you choose a pergola for some shade, a new deck for entertaining guests, or a fence for added privacy, custom carpentry can truly elevate your landscape.

• Winter construction often comes with shorter wait times, allowing you to enjoy your upgraded space sooner.
• Protect your investment by using treated wood and applying winter-proof sealants to ensure longevity.

Planning Ahead for Spring

What you do in December sets the stage for a blooming spring scene. Getting ready puts you ahead of the game when plants start growing again.

Book your garden design meetings now to avoid the spring crowds. Take advantage of the slow winter months to think up and build new garden features like flower patches, walkways, or fountains. If you take care of things this December, your yard will be all set to come alive with color when the warm weather returns.

Why December Landscaping Matters

December is a crucial time for safeguarding and improving your Oregon landscape with professional landscaping services, irrigation system winterization or incorporating new custom landscape installation and designs. By taking care of your property’s winter requirements now, you can prevent expensive damage and create an outdoor space that flourishes throughout the year.

Don’t wait for winter to take its toll on your outdoor space! Contact Graham Landscape and Design today for expert advice and services to protect and enhance your landscape this December.

By incorporating expert solutions like freeze protection for plants and thoughtful planning for spring, you can ensure your outdoor spaces are both beautiful and functional all year long. Reach out today to schedule your consultation!