Q.) What is landscaping vs. hardscaping?
A.) Landscaping refers to the designing, planning, and construction of gardens and other planted features to both create useable space for outdoor activities, and enhance the appearance around a home or property. Landscaping, in general, includes hardscaping and softscaping.
Hardscaping includes non-organic materials such as stone and woodwork, retaining walls, decks, firepits, and more. Softscaping refers to planting designs, creating berms and grading, along with mulching. Hoogland's does both types of landscaping.
Q.) Is permitting required?
A.) It depends. Most landscape projects do not require permits. However, projects involving construction elements such as patios and outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, pools, or retaining walls, for example, will require some sort of permit. Our professional landscape designers will help to determine the permits required and handle the permitting process for you.
Q.) We want a lot done, but cannot afford to do it all at once. Can you still work with us?
A.) Absolutely! It is not uncommon to do large projects in phases. Because we are a design/build entity, we can make recommendations as to phasing the construction of your project in a way that minimizes staging conflicts and maximizes your return, all the while helping to keep your investment within your comfort zone.
Q.) If I already know exactly what I want, why do I even need design services or consultation?
A.) Constructing a landscape or outdoor living project to fulfill your dreams and last a lifetime is WAY more than simply digging holes and hammering a few things into place. Every project has its own unique set of possibilities and potential issues which need to be addressed - considerations of sun exposure, drainage, materials selection, and even installation techniques can make a drastic difference in the end result.
Q.) What if I already have a design or plan?
A.) That is a great way to help communicate your ideas. We will happily review your design at the initial consultation and discuss the best way to proceed in achieving your outdoor living dreams. In almost all cases, initial plans still require additional work to ensure that the design details are complete and the details necessary for us to construct the project are sufficient.
Q.) How much does an outdoor kitchen cost?
A.) Wow! Wish we could give an easy answer to this... The number of variables that impact cost in an outdoor kitchen (or any other landscape project) can be enormous, as every project is truly unique. The cost of an outdoor kitchen is determined largely by the number and qualities of amenities - type of materials, size, and location.
We have found that people in the Northwest Louisiana, area typically spend $20,000-$30,000 for a custom outdoor kitchen. Basic kitchens with minimal amenities can be constructed for less, and gourmet outdoor kitchens can approach $100,000 for top-of-the-line, luxury. It's all about what you envision and what you are comfortable investing into your outdoor oasis.
Q.) What is seasonal color?
A.) The aesthetic art of mixing colors and the visual effects of color combinations — creating a feeling of relaxation, making small spaces seem larger, attracting attention to a specific area or tying areas together. In landscaping, the color spectrum is divided into four groups:
Q.) How often should I be watering my flower beds?
A.) Landscaped beds are typically a bit easier to water. Most flower gardens require only about 1 inch of water each week. During warmer weather, proper mulch installation can help to retain moisture and allowing for a more budget-friendly water bill. Proper zoning for sprinklers can help make sure that certain flowers and shrubs are watered efficiently. The amount of shade and/or direct sunlight can affect the amount of water retained in certain areas. Hoogland's maintenance and irrigation experts can help to evaluate these needs.
Q.) When and why should I fertilize my lawn?
A.) Fertilizing your lawn is necessary to ensure your lawn has proper nutrients to ensure healthy growth and attractive quality. Fertilization provides a slow release of carefully blended nutrients which help your lawn by promoting new development and root growth. In areas like the Northwest Louisiana, we recommend a program that includes weed control and fertilization for optimal results.
Q.) What's the proper height to cut my grass?
A.) Depending on the type of grass, there are different specifications. Generally there are four types of turf grass here in Northwest Louisiana.
* If you're not sure of the type of grass you have in your yard, our maintenance professionals can help to determine the specie as well as get you set up on a schedule for maintaining. Keep in mind that we do offer no-cost evaluations to help keep your lawn looking it's best all year long!
Q.) How do I permanently get rid of weeds?
A.) This is a tough one... Conditions that are good for plant and grass growth are naturally good for weed growth. However, there are steps you can take to prevent weed growth early on, and help to eradicate weeds if they do appear. First, using landscaping fabric in your flower beds and garden during initial planting. Then using a weed preventer to further discourage weed growth. If weeds do appear, pull the entire weed, including the root, early on to prevent it from coming back. For cracks in concrete and pavers, use an herbicide to kill weeds that appear. For a more organic method, try using vinegar in a spray bottle. But, be warned, herbicides, including vinegar, will kill all plants they touch, not just the weeds. Best bet would be to contact our chemical technician if you find more than the occasional weed that sprouts - a custom treatment plan will be created for you. Contact us for your estimate.
Q.) I see that your sign says 'Nursery' - does this mean you sell plants and trees to the public?
A.) Our sign has been with us for 30+ years now and while we no longer sell to the public (or wholesale), it's an original and quite sentimental. We now consider it our "personal nursery." Check out our facebook page to learn more about Hoogland's History.
Q.) Do you still sell mulch and sod? I have purchased some from you in the past.
A.) We do not sell sod and actually never have. Years ago, we leased part of our property to a company that did, but they have since left. However, there are a few retailers in the local area.
