Author: kevin

Tips for Mid-Summer Fertilizing That Actually Help Your Plants

When July heat sets in, your landscape needs a little extra love. But giving your plants too much of a good thing—especially fertilizer—can do more harm than good. This month, we’re sharing the smart way to fertilize during the dog days of summer, without burning your foliage or stressing your perennials.

Choose the Right Fertilizer—And Read the Bag

Sounds simple, but most fertilizer issues start with ignoring the instructions. We recommend using a balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer (like a triple 14) for general landscape use. This provides steady nutrition without the shock of a liquid blast. And yes—read the label. It tells you exactly how much to use, and how often.

Watch Where It Lands

Granular fertilizers can damage foliage if the pellets sit on leaves in the hot sun. To avoid burns, always water your plants immediately after broadcasting—or better yet, use a leaf blower to knock stray granules to the soil. This simple step can save your hydrangeas from heartbreak 💔.

Granular vs. Liquid: What’s the Difference?

Liquid fertilizers (like hose-end sprayers with Miracle-Gro) deliver fast results but can lead to plant stress, especially on hot days. If you’re using liquid, apply it in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. Slow-release granular fertilizers are more forgiving and offer longer-term benefits with less risk of shock.

Know Your Plant Types

Different plants have different needs. Most of our fine gardening clients get a base-level application of triple 14 fertilizer, but we do customize for specific varieties:

• Hydrangeas need pH-specific adjustments to control bloom color: acidic for blue 💙, alkaline (like garden lime) for pink 🌸.
• Azaleas and hollies benefit from fertilizers made specifically for acid-loving plants.

Final Tip: Timing is Everything

Avoid fertilizing at high noon when the sun is strongest. Instead, plan applications for early morning or late evening when evaporation is low and your plants are most receptive.

Fertilizer can do wonders—but only if it’s applied correctly. Follow these tips and your summer landscape will thank you.

What You Need to Know Before Installing a Hardscape

When planning a hardscape, it’s not just about picking a material that looks nice. Functionality, existing landscape features, and long-term use are all part of the conversation. At Turner Design Group, we believe a well-planned hardscape should meet your family’s needs now and grow with your property.

Fit the Design to the Way You Live

Are you designing for backyard barbecues, a quiet retreat, or a home where grandkids will visit? These factors determine your ideal patio size, seating arrangements, and features like a fire pit or outdoor fireplace. Consider how many people you typically entertain and what kind of experiences you want to create in your space. We help clients choose layout, traffic flow, and structural features that match their lifestyle.

Choosing the Right Retaining Wall

Retaining walls come in many styles, but they’re not all created equal. If you have mature trees on your property, we often recommend boulders or ledge rock over manufactured retaining block. Tree roots move over time, and natural stone allows for more flexibility. Manufactured block can buckle or crack under pressure from roots, while boulders and ledge rock shift subtly without significant damage.

Style Matters: Match Your Home and Landscape Aesthetic

Your hardscape should complement your home’s architecture and your property’s vibe. Boulders often suit rustic or cottage-style landscapes. Manufactured blocks work well for modern or formal gardens, especially when clean lines and symmetry are part of the design. Ledge rock offers a clean look with natural texture, creating a beautiful balance between structure and organic appeal.

Don’t Forget Function

Beyond beauty, your hardscape must serve a purpose. Retaining slopes, improving accessibility, directing water flow, or creating entertainment zones—each function impacts the type of material and layout we recommend. We consider sunlight exposure, drainage, and space usage to craft designs that function beautifully.

Start With Inspiration, Then Bring in the Experts

If you’re considering a hardscape this year, start by noticing what you like. Take photos of patios you admire. Think about how you want to use the space. Then, let us help you turn that inspiration into a functional, beautiful addition to your landscape.

Graduation season is just around the corner—and that means one thing: the party prep starts now. Whether you’re hosting in May, June, or even July, May is the perfect time to get your landscape ready for entertaining.

At Turner Design Group, we’ve helped countless homeowners get their yards in tip-top shape ahead of big celebrations. If you’re planning a graduation party or any summer gathering, this is your go-to guide for a great-looking yard that won’t leave you stressed.

Turner’s Top Tips for Graduation Party Landscape Prep

🌿 1. Start with Pre-Emergent Weeding and Mulch
Nothing says “we didn’t plan ahead” like an overgrown flower bed. A fresh layer of mulch and early weeding makes everything look cleaner—and helps keep things that way.

🌸 2. Add Pops of Color with Potted Annuals
Skip the back-breaking work of planting in the ground. We recommend decorative pots filled with colorful annuals to brighten up porches, patios, and entryways.

💧 3. Power Wash Patios and Entertaining Areas
A quick clean-up can make your patio look brand new. Power washing helps remove built-up grime, giving your hardscapes a fresh, party-ready shine.

💡 4. Tune Up Landscape Lighting
Evening parties need ambiance. A quick landscape lighting tune-up ensures your celebration shines—literally—long after the sun sets.

🪴 5. Replace Dead Shrubs with Healthy Ones
You’ve got enough going on—don’t let sad, lifeless shrubs be part of your event decor. If something’s not bouncing back, it’s time to pull and replace.

🌊 6. Prep Beach or Lakefront Spaces
If your property backs up to water, take a look at your beach area or seawall. A fresh coat of sand and a quick weed pull go a long way in making the area guest-ready.

🪵 7. Eliminate Trip Hazards
No one wants to be the host of a party where someone takes a tumble. Check your steps, flagstone paths, or lawn divots. We can help with repairs or replacements.

Make the Most of Your Outdoor Celebration

From prepping patios to refreshing plant beds, there’s a lot that goes into getting your yard ready for a big event. But you don’t have to do it all yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, give us a call. Turner Design Group can take care of the details—so you can focus on celebrating.

Why an Outdoor Kitchen?

As temperatures rise and summer approaches, it’s time to think about upgrading your outdoor living space. If you love entertaining, grilling, or simply enjoying meals outside, an outdoor kitchen is the perfect addition to your home. But before you start, there’s a lot to consider—design, materials, placement, and even the type of cooking you plan to do.

At Turner Design Group, we specialize in creating custom outdoor kitchens that are functional, stylish, and built to last. Here’s what you need to know before planning your dream outdoor kitchen.

How Will You Use Your Outdoor Kitchen?

Before making design choices, ask yourself:
✅ How often will you use the space?
✅ Do you entertain large groups or prefer intimate gatherings?
✅ Are you an avid griller, or do you need a full-service outdoor kitchen?

Understanding your cooking and entertainment habits will help determine the layout, necessary features, and materials best suited for your lifestyle.

Key Elements of a Well-Designed Outdoor Kitchen

🔹 Cooking & Prep Space: Whether you’re a casual griller or a gourmet chef, your cooking station is the heart of your outdoor kitchen. Consider these options:

• Built-in gas, charcoal, or hybrid grills
• Side burners for sauces and sides
• Pizza ovens for wood-fired perfection

🔹 Storage & Organization: Keep everything you need within arm’s reach.

• Concealed stainless steel cabinets
• Built-in trash and recycling
• Open shelving for easy access

🔹 Countertops & Materials: Choose durable, weather-resistant surfaces such as:

• Granite (heat-resistant and stylish)
• Concrete (modern and customizable)

🔹 Entertainment & Lighting: If your outdoor kitchen is part of your social space, think beyond cooking.

• Pergolas or covered structures for sun protection
• Built-in audio and TV for game nights and events
• Ample lighting for evening entertainment

Practical Considerations Before You Build An outdoor kitchen isn’t just about looks—it requires careful planning and integration with the existing structure of your home. Consider:
✔️ Utility connections: Will you need a gas line or propane hookup? Do you require electrical outlets?
✔️ Drainage & plumbing: If installing a sink, ensure proper water access and drainage.
✔️ Weather protection: Are you in an area with high sun exposure? Adding a covered roof or shade structure could extend the life of your kitchen.

Turn Your Backyard into the Ultimate Summer Retreat

A well-planned outdoor kitchen isn’t just a luxury—it’s an investment in your home and lifestyle. Avoid costly mistakes by working with a professional team that understands how to create a functional and beautiful space.

If you’re ready to start planning your custom outdoor kitchen, contact Turner Design Group today! Let’s build a space that perfectly fits your cooking style, entertainment needs, and aesthetic vision.

Why Privacy Screens are a Must-Have for Your Yard

If you’ve spent the winter staring at an unsightly neighbor’s property, or worse, that stubborn red golf cart parked in the same spot for months, you know the value of a good privacy screen. Privacy screens, especially evergreen plantings, provide year-round beauty and seclusion, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor space without the distractions of what’s going on next door.

At Turner Design Group, we specialize in creating personalized privacy solutions that enhance your property’s aesthetic while also providing practical benefits. So why wait for the warmer months to begin your privacy project? March is the perfect time to get started.

Choosing the Right Evergreen for Your Privacy Screen

When it comes to choosing the right plants for your privacy screen, there are several factors to consider. We’re here to guide you through the process to ensure that you get the best results.

1. Understanding Your Property’s Needs
   Every property is different, and the best privacy screen for your yard depends on a variety of factors such as sunlight, soil type, and the surrounding environment. Is your property shaded or exposed to full sun? Do you have any specific challenges like power lines or septic fields that need to be considered when selecting plants? We take all of these factors into account to recommend the right evergreen plantings for your yard.
2. Consider the Wildlife in Your Area
   Before selecting plants, it’s essential to understand the wildlife that frequents your area. For example, Arborvitae emeralds are a popular choice for privacy screens, but they can fall victim to deer if your property has a large deer population. Our team will help you choose deer-resistant plants and structure your privacy screen to make sure it thrives year-round.
3. Planting for Longevity and Aesthetic Appeal
   A privacy screen should not only serve as a visual barrier but also complement the rest of your landscape. We carefully choose evergreen plants that will grow in the right habit, meaning they won’t overwhelm the space as they mature. Whether you prefer an all-evergreen screen or a mix of evergreens and flowering plants for added color, we’ll design a screen that fits your style and needs.
4. Proper Maintenance for a Long-Lasting Screen
   A well-planned privacy screen will grow with your property and last for many years, but it’s important to maintain it properly. Our team can guide you on trimming, pruning, and caring for your privacy plants to ensure that they continue to flourish and provide the privacy you desire.

The Benefits of Privacy Screens for Both Properties

While privacy screens benefit your property, they also offer advantages for your neighbors. A well-maintained privacy screen creates a beautiful boundary that both you and your neighbors can enjoy. It’s a win-win situation that enhances the overall value of the property and improves the neighborhood.

Get Started Today with Turner Design Group

Now is the perfect time to plan your privacy screen for the upcoming season. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us help you create a space that provides the seclusion and beauty you’ve been craving. Whether you’re looking to block out unwanted views or enhance your landscape’s appeal, we have the perfect solution for you.

Planning for a Low-Maintenance Landscape in 2025

February may feel like the quiet before the spring gardening rush, but it’s the perfect time to take a step back, reflect, and plan for a year of effortless beauty in your garden. If your garden got the best of you last year, and you found yourself overwhelmed by weeds, pests, or just the sheer maintenance, you’re not alone. Many homeowners, especially as we age, start to feel the burden of garden upkeep, which takes valuable time away from other priorities—like spending time with family, enjoying hobbies, or simply relaxing in your own home.

But there’s good news! With a little preparation now, you can enjoy your landscape without the hassle and stress that comes with it. Here’s how you can take inventory of your garden, assess what worked and what didn’t, and start planning for a more enjoyable garden in 2025.

Ask Yourself These Questions as You Plan Your Garden

1. Did I enjoy my garden last year?
   Take a moment to think back to last year’s garden. Were you able to enjoy it, or did it become a burden? Did the weeds take over, or did pests ruin your plants? If you found yourself spending too much time maintaining your landscape, now is the time to consider how you can make your garden easier to manage.
2. What worked and what didn’t?
   Assess your garden and think about what worked well and what didn’t. Did the plants grow as expected, or were there areas where you were overly ambitious? Maybe some plants didn’t thrive because the conditions weren’t quite right, or perhaps the layout could use some tweaking. Taking inventory now allows you to plan for better results this season.
3. Do I have the time and energy for another busy gardening season?
   Life gets busier every year, and it can feel harder to keep up with the garden. Consider how much time you realistically have to dedicate to maintenance. If you’ve noticed that your enthusiasm for gardening is waning, or if physical limitations are making gardening harder, it might be time to ask for help.

How Professional Gardening Services Can Help You Enjoy Your Garden Again

Imagine having a beautiful, well-maintained garden without spending every weekend working on it. A fine gardening service can help you take back your weekends and free up your time for other activities. Whether it’s weeding, deadheading flowers, pest control, or just keeping things neat and tidy, hiring a professional gardening service can make a world of difference.

For many homeowners, investing in professional care means more time to relax and enjoy the space they’ve created. Take it from our satisfied clients: one couple used to spend all their weekends maintaining their garden, but after hiring our team, they were able to travel and enjoy their free time without worrying about the yard. Another client, now retired, wanted to avoid the physical labor of maintaining their property—our gardening services made it easy for them to enjoy their garden year-round without the stress.

Start Planning Your Garden Today

If you’re ready to enjoy your garden without the constant upkeep, now is the time to plan for 2025. Reach out to us today to discuss our fine gardening services and how we can help you create a landscape that’s as easy to maintain as it is beautiful.

What Are Living Walls and Moss Walls?

Living walls and moss walls are innovative design solutions that bring the benefits of nature into your home or office. Living walls consist of plants growing vertically on a structure, providing both aesthetic beauty and functional benefits. In contrast, moss walls are made from preserved moss that requires no maintenance and lasts for up to 10 years.

Both systems are ideal for those looking to incorporate greenery into interior spaces while enhancing the environment. The moss wall is a perfect choice for low-maintenance greenery, while the living wall system offers a dynamic, oxygen-boosting, air-purifying addition to any room.

The Benefits of Living Walls and Moss Walls for Your Space

Living walls and moss walls are more than just attractive design elements. These systems offer a variety of benefits for both residential and commercial spaces:

• Improve Air Quality: Living walls can help purify the air by filtering out pollutants and increasing oxygen levels, creating a healthier and more productive environment.
• Noise Reduction: These green systems also absorb sound, making them an ideal choice for office spaces, especially in noisy environments like cubicles or shared workspaces.
• Energy Savings: With the added insulation from plants and moss, these walls can help regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Both moss and living walls provide a unique, organic touch to any room. They’re perfect for replacing traditional artwork or bringing a sense of calm into a space.

Living Walls vs. Moss Walls: Which Is Right for You?

While both living walls and moss walls share some common benefits, there are key differences to consider:

• Living Walls: These require more maintenance and are typically irrigated systems, making them ideal for individuals or businesses looking for an ongoing, dynamic green element. The plants need about 2 hours of maintenance per month, and the upfront cost may be higher due to installation and the required plumbing and electrical work.
• Moss Walls: If you’re looking for something that’s hassle-free, moss walls are a great option. They require no maintenance and are easy to install, with a lifespan of up to 10 years. These systems are ideal for people who want a green feature in their space without the time commitment for care.

When Is the Best Time to Install Living Walls or Moss Walls?

Both systems can be installed in new builds or retrofitted to existing spaces. Living walls work best if installed during construction, particularly for those requiring irrigation systems. Moss walls can be installed at any time and are an easy upgrade for most spaces, particularly in offices or residential living rooms, kitchens, and hallways.

If you’re considering bringing a piece of nature into your space this winter, now is the perfect time to start planning.

Transform Your Space with Greenery

Whether you choose the lively and interactive nature of living walls or the sleek, low-maintenance appeal of moss walls, both systems are a smart way to enhance your indoor environment. Reach out to us at Turner Design Group for more information or to schedule your installation consultation. Let’s transform your space and boost your well-being with the natural beauty of plants.

Introduction: 

As the days grow shorter and the nights get longer, it’s the perfect time to enhance your outdoor space with effective landscape lighting. Not only does it increase safety, but it also allows you to enjoy your garden well into the evening. In this blog, we’ll highlight the essential tips for choosing and installing landscape lighting to make the most of your outdoor area this autumn.

Benefits of Landscape Lighting:

• Enhanced Safety: Proper lighting can illuminate pathways, steps, and driveways, reducing the risk of trips and falls.
• Extended Enjoyment: With the right lighting, you can continue to enjoy your garden after dark.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Highlight your home’s architecture and showcase your beautiful autumn landscape.

Types of Landscape Lighting:

1. Uplighting: Place lights at the base of trees or architectural features to create dramatic effects and highlight the structure.
2. Path Lighting: Install along walkways and driveways to guide visitors safely and elegantly.
3. Spotlighting: Focus on specific features like specimen plants or sculptures to draw attention and create focal points.
4. Downlighting: Mount lights high in trees or structures to mimic natural light and create a serene ambiance.

Choosing the Right Lighting:

• LED Fixtures: Opt for energy-efficient LED lights that have a long lifespan and low maintenance.
• Color Temperature and Color Changing Options: Choose between warm white for a cozy feel or color changing technology with limitless choices in the RGB spectrum.
• Smart Control: Consider systems that offer remote or app-based control for convenience and customization.

We offer a base package with seven uplights and a transformer, using high-quality FX Luminaire products. Our lights are available in architectural bronze or black finishes to blend seamlessly with your landscape. Whether you want a classic setup or a dynamic color-changing option, we have you covered.

Transform Your Autumn Evenings with Professional Landscape Lighting 

Enhancing your outdoor space with the right lighting not only makes it safer but also extends your enjoyment well into the night. With our expertise in landscape lighting, you can achieve a beautifully illuminated garden that perfectly complements the autumn season. If you’re ready to brighten up your evenings and create a stunning outdoor environment, contact Turner Design Group today to schedule your consultation and bring your vision to light.