Core aeration is the process of mechanically removing plugs of thatch and soil from the lawn and should be done every 3 years. Aeration opens the soil, helps reduce compaction, improves water infiltration, improves rooting, reduces thatch and acts in many other ways to improve the lawn and reduce stress. Lawn aeration restores the vital “nooks and crannies” to the soil. To maintain a healthy lawn through periods of stress, the soil needs water, air and nutrients in the top 6 to 10 inches. Soils that are hard and compacted like our clay, have no “nooks and crannies” to hold the water, air or nutrients. Without these crucial components, root growth is impeded, which prevents the grass from developing the deep root system that is essential to survive in hot and dry or harsh and cold periods. Core aeration can be used to minimize thatch accumulation, to modify its physical characteristics, and to reduce soil compaction. Soil plugs are deposited on the turf surface (see left). These plugs then break down and redistribute soil throughout the thatch layer. The soil from the plugs helps to modify the physical structure of the thatch, making it a better growing medium.

Fire Pits

Fire pits offer an excellent alternative to outdoor fireplaces and may better suit your landscaping needs. A fire pit is often the focal point of a social gathering of friends and family. Fire pits can be designed and custom built us in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit your tastes, space, and backyard landscape needs. Fire pits are often used as accents in a well designed landscape and can be custom built using a selection of styles and materials, including natural stone, pre-cast concrete, slate, bluestone, brick, and stacked stone.

Water Features

Running water has a soothing and calming effect and helps to drown out other background noises such as traffic or neighbors. You can create your own quiet corner, a relaxing and peaceful place to getaway and enjoy the sights and sounds of water. Water gardens can be created in a variety of designs from koi ponds to elegant water falls.

A water garden adds sophistication and value to your property. In addition to increasing your property value and making your property more appealing, water gardens and water features provide habitat for wildlife. Birds, bees, butterflies and other critters will enjoy a refreshing water source.

Other water features include landscape ponds such as Koi ponds, water falls, fountains, and landscape streams. If you have an existing pond, stream or other natural water feature on your property we can improve its beauty and function.

Poison Ivy & Poison Oak

Poison Ivy Removal

Poison Ivy (above) and Poison Oak (below) are most easily removed early in the season before growth begins. Landscaping With Hart can identify and eliminate these irritating plants before they sprout identifying leaves.

Poison Oak Removal

Later in the season, removal of these plants is more difficult when rash-inducing oils are "ripe". Both Poison Ivy and Poison Oak tend to grow among and around rocks, trees and other protective structures, adding to the difficulty of removal.

Weed-whacking these plants explode the oils into a fine mist that can penetrate to any skin covered by loose-fitting clothing and garden gloves. Call Landscaping With Hart to eradicate these nuisances before they come into contact with family or guests, especially children.

Landscaping With Hart, LLC • Guilford, CT • 203.915.8763