July is the perfect time to refresh and add new plants and shrubs for a vibrant landscape all season. This is the peak of summer when your property should look its best, especially since everyone is spending as much time outdoors as possible. Check out expert maintenance tips, natural mosquito repellents, and hardscape ideas that are new again.

Don’t forget to refresh Container Plantings! Reach out to schedule an appointment: 203.622.6070.

Freshen Up Your Landscape with Ornamental Grasses

Looking to change your property? Ornamental grasses add texture, movement, and year-round interest. They are low-maintenance, drought-tolerant, and help reduce garden weeds. Plus, they add motion, texture, and height along fences, property lines, walkways, and sidewalks, and are available in many sizes, shapes, and colors. Varieties include Bamboo, Zebra Grass, Japanese Forest Grass and others. Contact us to learn more about what can work for you.

Landscape Tips:

• Prune and thin large shade trees to increase light for lawns and planting beds

• Continue to fertilize annuals and container plants each month

• Fertilize vegetables

• Leave grass clippings on lawn

• Water plants early in the day through drip irrigation or hand held hose with shut off nozzle

• Reapply mulch to help conserve moisture

Natural Mosquito Repellents   

Nothing is worse than pesky mosquitoes and flies during the warm weather. There are effective bug sprays and zappers available, but why not consider adding plants that can help deter pests too. Plus, most of these options will also add gorgeous color.

A few suggestions: Lavender, Basil, Catnip, Mint, Garlic, Lemon balm, and Citronella plants are all effective and have aromatic properties or essential oils that repel pests.

Old School Hardscape Trends Making a Comeback

In the 1960s and 1970s, brick and gravel were seen everywhere in backyards, along with indoor conversation pits. Now in 2026, they have all re-emerged with a new, updated and textured look that is replacing minimalism. Reach out to see how we can enhance your property.

Gravel Court Yards – Water conservation is more of a priority than ever. One sustainable idea to consider is gravel. It’s easy to install, inexpensive and practical. It also adds a new eye-catching element to your property and helps to conserve water and save money.

Conversation Pits – Before receiving a fresh look and moving outdoors, they were popular indoors. Now, they feature weather-resistant built-in seating, fire-pit style features, upholstery, along with subtle low-voltage lighting. It’s a great way to create a cozy, comfortable space to enjoy through fall.

Exposed Brick Decor – Here’s another 1970s idea making a come back. It’s available in a variety of colors and textures that can be used for a patio or anywhere around your property for planters, benches, outdoor kitchens and as a border for the garden.

Contact us for any lawn care and landscaping needs – 203.622.6070