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The Role of Lighting in Landscape Design

. Posted by in • Houston

The Role of Lighting in Landscape Design

Lighting is a crucial element in landscape design, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of outdoor spaces. Whether you are designing a vegetable garden, a cozy backyard, or an inviting front yard, the right lighting can transform your property into a beautiful and functional area. This guide will explore the various ways lighting contributes to landscape designs, provide design ideas, and offer tips for integrating lighting into your own landscape.

Lighting is an integral part of the design process, affecting everything from shade patterns to plant selection. The use of basic elements in lighting can significantly influence how your yard looks and feels. From highlighting shrubs and trees to illuminating patios and walls, lighting enhances the visual weight of your garden and adds depth and dimension.

When planning your lighting, it is crucial to incorporate the right plants and landscape elements. Tracing paper or … Read Full Post »

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Pergola Versus Gazebo: What’s the Difference?

. Posted by in • Austin
a pergola

Want to enhance your outdoor space but torn between adding a pergola, pictured above, or a gazebo? These two structures can transform your outdoor space into a cozy and relaxing retreat. But each one has its specific purpose. They differ in design, function and intent. Understanding each will allow you to make a more fitting choice for your outdoor space.

Both pergolas and gazebos provide you with shade and beauty. The real difference is in their shape, roof style and overall purpose.

Pergola Versus Gazebo: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with the basics. A pergola is an outdoor structure made of upright posts that hold up a roof made of beams or a lattice. Pergolas have an open roof, which allows sunlight to pass through. Some pergola owners grow vines or attach a curtain around their structures. You can attach a pergola to your home, or it can be freestanding.

Meanwhile, gazebos have a … Read Full Post »

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How to Plan and Build a Garden Pathway

. Posted by in • Houston

Garden Pathway

How to Plan and Build a Garden Pathway

Creating a garden pathway is a delightful way to enhance your outdoor space. A well-designed garden path not only adds beauty and structure to your garden but also provides practical benefits, like guiding foot traffic and protecting your plants. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to plan and build a garden pathway using a variety of materials and ideas to suit any style or skill level.

A garden path can transform your outdoor space into a more organized and aesthetically pleasing environment. Whether you choose a stone garden path or a more rustic gravel path, the key is to blend the pathway seamlessly with your existing garden design.

DIY garden paths are a fantastic way to personalize your garden, offering endless possibilities with materials such as stepping stones and decomposed granite.

In addition to their visual appeal, garden paths play … Read Full Post »

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Mosquito Control Tips for Summer

. Posted by in , • Dallas-Fort Worth, Tyler
Mosquito sucking blood with vibrant background

Summer mosquito season isn’t just an annoyance; it’s a genuine concern for your family’s health, comfort, and ability to enjoy the outdoors. While professional mosquito control services provide a powerful layer of protection, there are some easy mosquito prevention steps you can take.

At ABC Home & Commercial Services, we help homeowners take control of mosquitoes with professional treatments and practical advice that works. Here’s what you need to know, including some surprising facts and common misconceptions. 

Why Am I Seeing So Many Mosquitoes? 

Ever wonder Why There Are So Many Mosquitoes in Dallas? Well, the short answer is that North Texas has the perfect storm of mosquito-friendly conditions: warm weather, high humidity, and frequent rain. These create ideal breeding grounds for common species like Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus. 

Some quick facts: 

  • Mosquito season typically runs April through October. 
  • Mosquitoes need … Read Full Post »
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How To Save A Dying Tree: A Closer Look At Tree Health

. Posted by in , • San Antonio
a dying tree

Homeowners often love mature trees for their shade, beauty and boost to curb appeal and property value. But if you notice signs of a dying tree, you may wonder how to help it recover, or whether it’s time for removal.

There are a number of diseases that can infect a tree’s branches, tree roots or foliage. Because the causes of a problem can vary, it’s often best to consult a tree professional to identify the problem. 

The good news is that most tree diseases cause visible symptoms that can be warning signs. This allows homeowners to act early on their trees’ behalf. Many of these signs of tree disease can look like a tree that’s just dormant, which can often make it difficult for a homeowner to tell what is actually wrong.

How To Save A Dying Oak Tree: Common Illnesses

Many types of trees, including oaks, are popular across the US for their … Read Full Post »

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Landscaping on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Design

. Posted by in • Houston

Landscaping Affordable Design

Landscaping on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Design

Landscaping on a budget is entirely achievable with careful planning, creative thinking, and strategic use of resources. By incorporating native plants, utilizing DIY projects, and focusing on cost-effective materials, you can transform your backyard into a beautiful landscape without overspending.

Remember, the key is to plan thoughtfully, be resourceful, and enjoy the process of creating your ideal garden.

Start by outlining your vision for the yard and determining the square footage you want to cover. This planning phase will help you allocate your resources effectively and save money by focusing on key areas such as retaining walls, grouping plants, and drainage holes. Consider integrating pea gravel, river rocks, or brick chips to enhance the ground cover affordably.

DIY projects are a creative way to keep costs low. Build your vertical gardens or use stepping stones to create attractive paths. Incorporate shredded leaves … Read Full Post »

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How Long Can Mosquitoes Live Without Food?

. Posted by in , • Corpus Christi
a mosquito on a person's hand

Mosquitoes are annoying pests that can make it hard to enjoy the outdoors. Some people think they can try to starve mosquitoes before spending time outside. This might sound like a good idea, but it doesn’t work when it comes to controlling mosquitoes.

How Long Can Mosquitoes Live Without Food?

Many homeowners wonder if they can get rid of mosquitoes by starving them out, especially in Texas during mosquito season. However, trying to starve out mosquitoes is not an effective pest control plan.

For one, there isn’t a clear-cut answer for how long mosquitoes can survive without food. Since male and female mosquitoes mainly survive on sugary foods like nectar from plants, fruit juices and other natural sugars, it would be nearly impossible to make sure the mosquitoes on your property aren’t getting food.

Many people don’t realize that only female mosquitoes bite people or animals. Female mosquitoes bite people because they need blood to … Read Full Post »

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Identifying & Preventing Oak Wilt Disease

. Posted by in , • Austin
an oak tree

Texas is known for beautiful oak trees that live for hundreds of years, so it’s important that homeowners care for their oak trees properly. A threat to oak trees is a disease called oak tree wilt, which can quickly deteriorate your tree’s health.

If oak tree wilt is a problem in your yard, contact an expert. Early detection is crucial to prevent the disease from spreading to more of your trees. 

Identifying and Preventing Oak Wilt Disease

Oak trees make for gorgeous assets in any lawn, and keeping them healthy is important. One common issue that homeowners encounter is called oak wilt disease. This is a fungal disease, caused by beetles or root grafts, that invades the tree’s internal water transport system and causes the tree to wilt. Identifying and managing infected trees is crucial to preventing the spread of oak wilt.

Fungal mats, which are patches of fungal growth, can form under the … Read Full Post »

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How to Create a Spa-Like Experience in Your Backyard

. Posted by in • Houston

Spa Like Backyard

How to Create a Spa-Like Experience in Your Backyard

Many homeowners dream of turning their backyard into a spa-like retreat. Imagine having a serene outdoor space where you can relax, unwind, and escape the stresses of daily life. Whether you’re considering installing a new hot tub or incorporating lush greenery into your landscape design, this guide will help you create a personal oasis that rivals any high-end spa.

When planning your outdoor living space, assess the available yard and consider how you want to use it. Do you envision a swimming spa for exercise, a hot tub for relaxation, or multiple seating areas for entertaining guests? Evaluate the size and shape of your yard to determine what features can be incorporated.

Use a privacy fence, lush greenery, or a pergola to block unwanted sights and create a secluded atmosphere. Divide your backyard into zones for different activities, such as … Read Full Post »

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How to Clean Trash Bins

. Posted by in • San Antonio
two trash bins

Let’s be honest: no one likes cleaning out their trash bins. It’s one of those chores that’s easy to ignore until the smell makes it impossible. A dirty bin can fill a garage or your yard with an unpleasant odor and can even attract bugs and flies.

The great news is that cleaning your bin doesn’t have to be difficult. With the right tools and a few easy steps, you can remove trash residue and prevent foul odors from accumulating.

Still, this isn’t a task many people enjoy. That’s why more homeowners opt to let a professional do the dirty work to keep their bins tidy year-round.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean Trash Bins

Cleaning out a trash bin is typically not someone’s idea of a fun time, but it is a chore that makes a big impact once it’s finished. Follow these steps to do it right:

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