At Details Landscape Art, we build gorgeous landscapes in Santa Rosa, Petaluma, Windsor, Novato, Sonoma, Napa, Sebastopol, Rohnert Park, Cotati, and Penngrove. The phrase “Gardens for Life” has two meanings. The first, discussed in a companion article, refers to gardens that fit the homeowner’s lifestyle. The second meaning is gardens that are built to last.
Built to last – installed in 1995 – still going strong in 2017
We are landscape contractors who build gardens designed to stand the test of time. That is not to say that every element in the landscape will last forever. Certain plants, just like people, have a limited lifespan. Fences eventually weather, irrigation systems require occasional maintenance, and gardens naturally evolve over the years. But given normal care, the basic structure of gardens designed and built by Details Landscape Art should provide beauty and enjoyment for a lifetime.
One of our mottos has always been: “Do It Once, Do It Right.”
Built to Last Starts with Quality Construction
A beautiful garden begins with proper construction techniques. Good grading, sound drainage, quality materials, and careful installation are the foundation of a landscape that will endure for decades.
Shortcuts may save money initially, but they often lead to costly repairs later. We believe that taking the time to do things correctly the first time is almost always the least expensive approach in the long run.
Periodic Maintenance
Even well-built landscapes benefit from occasional maintenance and freshening up over time.
Bark naturally oxidizes, turns gray, and slowly decomposes. We generally recommend adding only a thin layer of new bark at a time. After several applications, it may be wise to remove some of the older bark to prevent burying drip irrigation tubing and low-voltage lighting wire.
Built to last – bark replaced very so often
Stamped concrete sealers gradually wear away from weather and foot traffic and should be reapplied periodically after thoroughly cleaning the surface.
Built to last – stamped concrete resealed periodically
Drip irrigation systems should be inspected periodically to ensure emitters are functioning properly and mineral deposits have not accumulated.
Planning for the Future
Trees benefit greatly from proper structural pruning during their early years. A little attention when they are young can reduce maintenance needs and improve appearance for decades to come.
Built to last – early structure pruning yields fabulous structure in the long run
Some plants may eventually reach the end of their natural lifespan and require replacement. Others may simply be changed as a homeowner’s tastes evolve over time.
Built to last – mature rhododendrons keep blooming
Perennials often benefit from deadheading during the growing season and pruning during winter dormancy.
Built to Last Includes Wood Structures
We build fences and arbors using quality materials intended to provide many years of service. Wood naturally expands and contracts with seasonal moisture changes, and weathering over time is inevitable.
Built to last – white painted arbor still going strong after 20 years
Some homeowners prefer the natural silver-gray patina that develops with age, while others choose to clean or refinish the wood periodically.
Keeping soil and bark away from wood surfaces can significantly prolong their lifespan by reducing moisture contact.
Gardens for Life
A garden is a living thing. Plants grow, seasons change, and families evolve. But the underlying framework of a thoughtfully designed and carefully constructed landscape can provide enjoyment for many years.
At Details Landscape Art, we strive to create gardens that fit our clients’ lives and gardens that are built to last.
That is the second meaning of our tagline: