When it comes to landscaping and outdoor construction in Colorado, understanding the difference between fill dirt vs planting soil can save time, money, and frustration. Although both materials look similar at first glance, their composition and purpose differ significantly — and using the wrong one can cause costly problems later.

What Is Fill Dirt?

Fill dirt is a dense, compactable material made primarily of subsoil — clay, sand, and rock fragments. It contains little or no organic matter, which makes it ideal for structural purposes rather than plant growth. Fill dirt is used to fill holes, level ground, or stabilize construction areas because it doesn’t shift or decompose over time.

Common Uses for Fill Dirt

• Leveling uneven terrain
• Backfilling areas after pool or pond removal
• Building up land for patios, driveways, or foundations
• Creating stable bases for retaining walls or outbuildings

What Is Planting Soil?

Planting soil, often called topsoil or garden soil, is rich in organic matter, nutrients, and microorganisms. It’s formulated to promote healthy plant growth by holding moisture and supporting root systems. Unlike fill dirt, planting soil isn’t suitable for compaction — it’s designed to breathe and nurture vegetation.

Common Uses for Planting Soil

• Installing new lawns and gardens
• Planting trees, shrubs, and flower beds
• Improving poor-quality native soil
• Blending with compost for enhanced fertility

Fill Dirt vs Planting Soil Comparison Table

How to Choose Between Fill Dirt vs Planting Soil

The decision between fill dirt vs planting soil depends entirely on your project goals. If your objective is to level or reshape your yard, fill dirt provides the stable base you need. But if you’re preparing to plant trees, grass, or a garden, planting soil is the right choice for healthy growth.

For many landscaping projects, professionals recommend a two-layer approach — compacted fill dirt for structure, topped with a layer of planting soil for vitality and aesthetics.

Paonia Soil Co – Colorado’s Best Source for Premium Soil

When quality matters, Paonia Soil Co is Colorado’s trusted name in planting soil and custom blends. Their organic-rich soils are specifically designed for Colorado’s unique climate, helping homeowners and contractors build healthy, sustainable landscapes. Paonia Soil Co’s expertise ensures your soil is screened, balanced, and ready for results.

MackLand LLC – Your Partner for Delivery and Site Preparation

MackLand LLC complements Paonia Soil Co perfectly by providing soil delivery, excavation, and grading services across the Denver and Front Range areas. With years of landscaping experience and advanced equipment — including compact excavators ideal for precise grading — MackLand LLC ensures your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between fill dirt vs planting soil is essential for any successful landscaping project. Use fill dirt where you need structure and planting soil where you want growth. By working with Paonia Soil Co for top-quality soil and MackLand LLC for expert delivery and land preparation, you’ll get a beautiful, durable landscape built on the right foundation.

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Fill dirt is an essential material for anyone tackling landscaping and construction projects. Unlike topsoil, which is rich in organic matter and ideal for planting, fill dirt is primarily subsoil composed of clay, sand, and small rocks. It’s designed for stability and compaction, making it perfect for creating solid foundations and reshaping terrain. Whether you’re leveling a backyard, filling in a depression, or building up areas for better drainage, understanding how to use fill dirt effectively can save you time, money, and headaches. In this complete guide for landscaping and construction in Denver, we’ll break down the key uses, step-by-step application tips, and best practices, with a special nod to resources for those in the Denver area.

Common Uses for Fill Dirt

Fill dirt’s versatility makes it a go-to choice for a wide range of landscaping and construction projects. Here are some of the most popular applications:

• Leveling Uneven Ground: If your yard has dips, hills, or uneven spots, fill dirt can create a flat surface. This is especially useful for installing patios, driveways, or lawns where stability is key.
• Building Foundations and Support: For structures like retaining walls, sheds, or even home additions, fill dirt provides a compactible base that prevents shifting or settling over time.
• Improving Drainage: In areas prone to water pooling or erosion, fill dirt can be used to elevate low spots or create gentle slopes that direct water away from buildings and gardens.
• Filling Holes or Depressions: Whether you’re removing an old pool, pond, or tree stump, fill dirt is ideal for backfilling these voids to restore a smooth landscape.
• Landscaping Features: Raise garden beds, create berms for privacy, or shape contours in your yard to enhance aesthetics and functionality.

In regions like Denver, where terrain can be rocky and sloped, knowing how to use fill dirt is particularly valuable for adapting to local conditions and preventing issues like erosion in dry climates.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Using fill dirt isn’t complicated, but proper preparation and technique ensure long-lasting results in your landscaping and construction efforts. Follow these steps for a successful project:

1. Assess Your Project Needs: Start by evaluating the area. Measure the dimensions (length, width, and depth) to estimate how much fill dirt you’ll need. For accurate calculations, consider factors like soil compaction and settling—aim to add about 10% extra to account for this. A helpful resource for this is the comprehensive guide available here It provides detailed tips tailored to Denver’s unique environment, including how to handle slopes and arid conditions.
2. Prepare the Site: Clear the area of debris, vegetation, or old materials. If you’re filling a large hole, ensure the base is stable. For sloped areas, you may need to create terraces or use retaining materials to hold the dirt in place.
3. Source Quality Fill Dirt: Choose clean, debris-free fill dirt from a reputable supplier. Avoid materials with too much organic content, as they won’t compact well. In the Denver metro area, companies like Mackland LLC stand out for their high-quality fill dirt, screened topsoil, and gravel. They offer reliable delivery and expertise, making them a top choice for both residential and commercial landscaping and construction projects. As highlighted in their guide, partnering with a supplier who ensures contaminant-free dirt is crucial to avoid future problems.
4. Apply the Fill Dirt:
   • Spread the dirt in layers, ideally 6-8 inches thick at a time.
   • Use a shovel, rake, or heavy machinery (like a bobcat for larger jobs) to distribute it evenly.
   • Compact each layer with a tamper, roller, or plate compactor to eliminate air pockets and promote stability. Watering lightly between layers can help with compaction, especially in dry areas.
5. Finish and Maintain: Once filled, top with sod, seed, or mulch if it’s a landscaping project. Monitor for settling over the first few weeks and add more dirt as needed. For structural uses in construction, consult a professional to ensure it meets building codes.

Types of Fill Dirt

Tips for Success and Common Mistakes to Avoid

To get the most out of your fill dirt project in landscaping and construction:

• Account for Compaction: Fill dirt settles, so overestimating slightly prevents sunken areas later.
• Check Local Regulations: In places like Denver, permits may be required for large fills or changes to grading.
• Budget Wisely: Factor in delivery costs, which can vary by distance. Bulk orders often come with discounts.
• Safety First: Wear protective gear and use proper tools to avoid injury.

Avoid pitfalls like inaccurate measurements or ignoring settling, as outlined in Mackland LLC’s estimating guide. Guessing volumes by eye or skipping compaction can lead to uneven results and extra expenses.

Why Choose Mackland LLC in the Denver Area?

If you’re in Denver or the surrounding metro, Mackland LLC is an excellent partner for your fill dirt needs in landscaping and construction. We can help you demystify the estimation process but also emphasize sustainable practices, like minimizing excess hauling to reduce environmental impact. With competitive pricing ($5–$15 per cubic yard), fast delivery, and a commitment to quality, they provide everything from common fill dirt to specialized materials. Plus, their expertise in local terrain—handling rocky soils and slopes—ensures your project is built to last. For a free estimate, reach out at 303-501-0828 or visit their contact page.

Conclusion

Fill dirt is a foundational element (pun intended) for transforming your outdoor space. By understanding how to use fill dirt and following this complete guide for landscaping and construction in Denver, you can achieve professional results without the hassle. Whether it’s a small garden tweak or a major overhaul, resources like Mackland LLC’s guide make the process straightforward, especially in challenging areas like Denver. Ready to get started? Grab your measurements and source your materials—your project awaits!

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A sloped backyard can feel like a landscaping challenge, but with the right approach, it can become one of the most beautiful and functional features of your property. Instead of leaving the slope unused or fighting constant erosion, a terraced backyard design creates usable, level spaces that enhance both appearance and practicality.

Why Choose Terracing Instead of a Retaining Wall?

Retaining walls have long been the traditional solution for managing slopes. While they can be effective, they often result in a single flat space that lacks versatility. A terraced backyard design, on the other hand, provides multiple levels that can be tailored to different purposes—gardens, seating areas, outdoor kitchens, or even play zones for children.

Terracing also improves water management. Instead of water running straight down the slope, each terrace slows runoff, reducing erosion and helping plants thrive. It’s not just a functional upgrade—it’s a way to bring character and unique visual appeal to your outdoor space.

Design Considerations for Terraced Backyards

When planning a terraced backyard design, it’s important to think beyond aesthetics. Key factors include:

• Slope grading and drainage – Proper planning ensures terraces won’t wash out during heavy rain.
• Material choice – Stone, brick, or wood edging can complement your home’s architecture.
• Intended use of each level – Garden beds, patios, fire pits, or lawns can be incorporated.
• Accessibility – Well-placed steps or paths make moving between terraces effortless.

A professional approach ensures that the design not only looks beautiful but also remains stable and functional for years.

The Role of Compact Excavators

One of the biggest advantages in creating a terraced backyard design is the use of compact excavators. Unlike large, bulky equipment, compact excavators can navigate tight residential spaces with minimal disruption to the surrounding landscape. Mackland LLC specializes in using these tools to deliver precision terracing, ensuring each level is built with care and efficiency.

Learn more about compact excavator advantages here.

Why Choose Mackland LLC?

With years of hands-on experience in excavation and landscaping projects across the Denver area, Mackland LLC is the trusted choice for homeowners who want to maximize their outdoor space. Their attention to detail, use of the best equipment, and reputation for getting the job done right make them the ideal contractor for creating a terraced backyard design that adds beauty, function, and long-term value to your property.

The post Terraced Backyard Design: The Best Way to Transform a Sloped Yard appeared first on MackLand LLC.

Owning a home with a tennis court can seem like a luxury, but as time goes on, the costs associated with maintaining that court can add up significantly. If you find yourself with an old tennis court that is no longer in use, it may be time to consider the benefits of professional Tennis Court removal. Not only can this decision save you money, but it can also enhance your property’s value and provide you with new opportunities for utilizing that space.

The Costs of Maintaining an Old Tennis Court

1. Regular Maintenance Expenses

An old tennis court requires regular upkeep to remain functional and safe. This includes:

• Surface Repairs: Cracks and wear can develop over time, necessitating resurfacing or patching. Depending on the material (asphalt, clay, or concrete), these repairs can be costly.
• Net and Equipment Replacement: Nets, posts, and other equipment need to be replaced periodically, adding to your expenses.
• Cleaning and Upkeep: Regular cleaning to remove debris, leaves, and dirt is essential. This may require hiring professionals or purchasing equipment, both of which incur costs.

2. Utility Costs

If your tennis court has lighting for evening play, the electricity bills can be substantial. Additionally, if you have irrigation systems for maintaining surrounding landscaping, these can further increase your monthly expenses.

3. Insurance and Liability

Maintaining an old tennis court may also require additional insurance coverage. If someone were to get injured while using the court, you could be held liable, leading to potential legal costs.

4. Declining Value

As the court ages, its condition may deteriorate, leading to a decline in your property’s overall appeal. An unkempt court can detract from the aesthetic value of your home, making it less attractive to potential buyers.

Why Professional Tennis Court Removal Makes Sense

1. Cost Savings

By opting for professional removal, you can eliminate ongoing maintenance costs. The initial investment in removal can save you money in the long run, especially if you are no longer using the court.

2. Increased Property Value

Removing an old tennis court can significantly enhance your property’s value. A well-maintained yard or additional usable space is often more appealing to buyers than a dilapidated court.

3. Versatile New Space

Once the court is removed, you have a blank canvas to work with. Here are some ideas for how to utilize the newly acquired space:

• Outdoor Living Area: Create a beautiful patio or deck for entertaining guests, complete with outdoor furniture, a fire pit, or a barbecue area.
• Garden or Landscaping: Transform the area into a lush garden, vegetable patch, or flower bed, enhancing the natural beauty of your property.
• Play Area for Children: Install a playground or a safe area for kids to play, which can be a significant selling point for families.
• Additional Structures: Consider building a shed, workshop, or even a small guest house, adding functional space to your property.

Why Choose Mackland LLC for Tennis Court Removal

1. Expertise in Excavation Services Mackland LLC specializes in compact excavator services, which are ideal for projects like tennis court removal. Their team is experienced in handling various excavation tasks, ensuring that the job is done efficiently and effectively. With the right equipment and expertise, they can remove the court without damaging the surrounding landscape.
2. Professionalism and Reliability Mackland LLC is known for its commitment to professionalism and reliability. They understand the importance of completing projects on time and within budget. Their team communicates clearly throughout the process, keeping you informed and ensuring that your needs are met.
3. Comprehensive Services Beyond just removal, Mackland LLC offers a range of services that can help you transform the space after the court is gone. Whether you need grading, landscaping, or site preparation for new structures, they can provide the necessary services to bring your vision to life.
4. Safety and Compliance Safety is a top priority for Mackland LLC. They adhere to all safety regulations and best practices, ensuring that the removal process is safe for both workers and your property. Their attention to detail minimizes the risk of accidents and damage.
5. Customer Satisfaction Mackland LLC has a strong reputation for customer satisfaction. They take pride in their work and strive to exceed client expectations. Positive testimonials from previous clients highlight their dedication to quality and service.

Conclusion

Removing an old tennis court can be a significant decision, but with the right contractor, the process can be seamless and beneficial. Mackland LLC offers the expertise, professionalism, and comprehensive services needed to ensure a successful removal. By choosing them for your project, you can rest assured that your property will be in good hands, allowing you to focus on the exciting possibilities for your newly acquired space. Whether you envision a beautiful garden, an outdoor living area, or a play space for children, Mackland LLC can help you turn that vision into reality.

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Uses of Common Fill Dirt

1. Leveling Low Spots: Over time, some areas in your yard might sink due to erosion or settling. Fill dirt can help level these spots, preventing water from pooling and improving yard drainage.
2. Raising Terrain: If you want to add height to certain areas of your yard (e.g., building up a raised garden bed, berms, or adding a slope for aesthetics), fill dirt is perfect for creating a solid, stable base.
3. Landscaping and Yard Reshaping: Fill dirt is often used as a foundational layer for landscaping projects, such as terraces, retaining walls, or other yard features. Topsoil is usually layered on top for planting once the fill dirt is in place.
4. Creating Foundations for Outdoor Structures: Fill dirt is ideal for leveling areas intended for a shed, patio, or pathway. Because it compacts well, it can create a solid base to support these structures.
5. Backfilling: When creating retaining walls or filling in around a foundation, fill dirt is often used to provide structural support.

How to Get Common Fill Dirt Delivered and Deployed

When you’re ready to bring fill dirt into your yard, efficient delivery and deployment will save you time, effort, and money. Here’s how to get it done:

1. Estimate the Quantity Needed

Start by calculating the amount of fill dirt you need. Measure the area’s length, width, and depth to estimate volume. Many online calculators can help with cubic yard conversions based on these measurements. It’s often wise to order slightly more than you think you’ll need to account for compaction.

2. Choose a Reliable Supplier

Look for local suppliers with good reviews who specialize in dirt and soil materials. Many suppliers allow you to view the dirt before purchase.

3. Determine Delivery Options

Most suppliers offer delivery services. Discuss placement options with the supplier—ideally, they should be able to place the dirt close to your worksite. Some suppliers use dump trucks to deliver large quantities, so ensure they have access to your yard.

4. Prepare Your Yard for Delivery

Clear any obstacles from the delivery area and cover any sensitive areas (like lawns) with a tarp if you want to prevent damage. If you have a specific location where you’d like the dirt unloaded, mark it clearly.

5. Deploying the Fill Dirt

For spreading fill dirt effectively:

• Use a Wheelbarrow and Shovel: For smaller areas, a wheelbarrow, shovel, and rake are adequate. This is labor-intensive but effective for precise placement.
• Rent Equipment for Larger Areas: If you’re leveling a large section, renting a skid-steer loader or a mini-excavator can save significant time. Many equipment rental companies also offer short tutorials if you’re new to these machines.
• Compact the Dirt as You Go: Fill dirt should be compacted after each layer (often in 6–12-inch increments) to ensure stability and prevent settling. You can use a hand tamper for smaller areas, but a plate compactor or roller is ideal for larger jobs.
• Add Topsoil for Planting: Once the fill dirt is in place and compacted, add a layer of topsoil if you plan to plant grass, shrubs, or flowers. Topsoil has more nutrients and organic material to support plant growth.

Tips for Success

• Check for Utility Lines: Before delivery, confirm there are no underground utilities in the area where you’ll be adding or spreading fill dirt.
• Be Aware of Local Regulations: Some areas have specific regulations regarding the addition of fill dirt, particularly if you’re reshaping land or altering drainage patterns. Check with your local municipality if you’re unsure.
• Order a Soil Test (Optional): While it’s not essential, a soil test can tell you more about the fill dirt’s composition. This is helpful if you’re concerned about contaminants or if you’ll be planting directly into the dirt.
• Outsource the Whole Exercise: Mackland LLC has years of experience and can project manage the whole project from beginning to end.

By following these steps, you can successfully order, receive, and deploy common fill dirt in your yard for your landscaping or structural needs, creating a stable and attractive foundation for your outdoor projects.

Contact us for a chat and to discuss your Denver Fill dirt needs,

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Even the savviest home gardener can struggle to see the potential in a Planting Tight Spaces, and when that pocket garden is on the outside of the fence, is it even worth bothering about? The challenges are many: difficult to water, reflected heat from the sidewalk, careless feet and often poor soil.

Yet these perimeter plantings can act as a picture frame for the inner garden and home beyond. When you read how these designers and homeowners treated their pocket gardens, you may be tempted to rethink the location of your own boundary fence just to take advantage of this unique design opportunity.

1. A Romantic Border

A classic white picket fence festooned with fragrant roses — what could be more romantic? The beauty of this one is that passersby can enjoy the flowers, since they’re planted on the outside of the fence.

Key design features:

• Restraint in both color and plants
• Repetition of colors and plants down the entire border
• Gaining height by using the fence to support climbing roses

Color notes:

• A restrained palette of pink and blue is accented with chartreuse.
• The deeper shades of purple provide depth, ensuring that this combination will still turn heads even in late summer.

Plant selection:

• Climbing ‘Mary Rose’ provides height and fragrance.
• Billowing mounds of golden creeping Jenny(Lysimachia nummularia ‘Aurea’) and May Night salvia (Salvia nemorosa ‘May Night’) form the lower tier.
• These perennials are tolerant of low water, poor soil and hot sun.

2. A Contemporary Home

The strong geometric lines of contemporary architecture call for a foliage-focused planting, and this narrow roadside border delivers.

Key design features:

• Restraint in color and plant variety
• Linear planting that echoes the horizontal lines of the home’s siding and fence
• Emphasis on foliage over flowers

Color note:

• Muted earth tones

Plant selection:

• Grasses and succulents are eminently suitable for contemporary landscape design, as they rely upon their strong form rather than colorful blooms.
• These plants require minimal water and maintenance.
• The grasses add a bright note to the dark stained fence panels.

3. An Entry That Establishes a Theme

A garden entrance should create a sense of anticipation, setting the scene for what is beyond. Plantings on the street side of this lattice fence do just that.

Key design features:

• An interesting combination of heights and textures makes this tiny planting pocket seem much larger than it really is.
• Several of these plants can also be glimpsed within the main garden.

Color note:

• Subdued tones of tan and pink allow the eye to move through the garden entrance.

Plant selection:

• This is a particularly hot, dry border, so these plants have been selected for their tenacity.
• Mexican feather grass (Stipa tenuissima), feather reed grass(Calamgrostis x acutiflora ‘Karl Foerster’)and sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ (Sedum ‘Herbstfreude’) provide long-term interest.

4. Planting Strips That Link Multiple Homes

Planned communities such as this one in Kirkland, Washington, have their own challenges, not the least of which is abiding by homeowners association regulations.

These planting strips allow for individuality while maintaining a cohesive design.

Key design features:

• A narrow planting strip adjacent to the sidewalk lies beyond each homeowner’s split-rail fence.
• Several plants are repeated through all the gardens, while there’s still room for some unique choices.

Color note:

• Shades of blue, lavender and green are repeated throughout.

Plant selection:

• All the plants are lower than the height of the split-rail fence; allowing the fence to be glimpsed down the entire sidewalk gives the illusion of one continuous border.
• Each plant typically has a mounding habit, creating a sense of uniformity.
• Lavender(Lavandula spp)and sedum ‘Autumn Joy’ (Sedum ‘Herbstfreude’) are planted throughout these pocket gardens as well as in the adjacent communal garden areas. Bronze-colored coral bells (Heuchera hyb.) and daylilies (Hemerocallis spp) are also used.

So, as you can see while Planting Tight Spaces needs a different approach. There as many options to consider.

See the original article from Houzz here

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Swimming pools have many virtues, especially during scorching summers. But they can easily become eyesores — not to mention money pits — especially if they leak or have other functional issues.

Instead of going through the costly (and sometimes unsuccessful) process of bringing an old swimming pool up to date, why not turn it into an entirely new, seriously cool feature that sets your home apart?

From a detached, lower-level studio space to a fully realized aquaponic farm, here are six smart ideas (some DIY projects and some that require a little professional help) to convert your old swimming pool into something useful, beautiful, or both!

1. The sunken patio

2. The practical deck

3. The detached studio

4. The peaceful pond

5. The water-wise garden

6. The food-producing farm

While you might not be ready to go full-scale eco-farm, the project proves that an old pool site might be just the spot to pull off the herb-and-veggie garden of your dreams.

As you can see there are a huge number of ideas of how to use that newly reclaimed space after having had your pool removed. Not interested in these 6 Genius New Uses for an Old Pool? Contact us to find out more possible ideas.

Find the original article from Trulia here

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Pool Demolition and Removal Services

Are you and your backyard skatepark getting older? Not spending a lot of time skating and wishing you had more backyard to use? Here at MackLand, LLC, while we specialize in swimming pool removals and demolition, we also remove skate pools.

When our client purchased the home, the skate pool was in place. The previous owners purposely built the skate pool to skate in their own backyard. Our client used it a bit but wanted to get more out of his backyard. That is where MackLand, LLC came in. We broke up the concrete skate pool and retaining walls and leveled the area.

We also worked with the client on possible patio and backyard designs to provide more room for entertainment. Our client opted to take that stage on themselves.

If you are ready to find out more about removing your skate or swimming pool, please do not hesitate to give us a call or fill our our form. We are happy to answer any questions you may have about our services that we offer.

No one removes more skate pools and swimming pools than MackLand.

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As a landlord, you have many responsibilities. Finding ways to prioritize your tasks is the key to efficient management. However, landscaping is a relatively important task that tends to get less attention.

While collecting rent and conducting property repairs are crucial, Bighorn Rentals says, it’s important you find time to maintain and upkeep the exterior of your property too. Upkeeping the outside of your rental is important because it will preserve and increase the value of your investment.

In this article, we will list the main do’s and don’ts of landscaping your rentals. You’ll learn the top tips for boosting your rental property’s curb appeal and your tenants’ satisfaction.

Here are the Things you Want to DO:

DO Comply with Local Rules

You need to check your local laws on any restrictions that might apply to your rental property’s landscaping. For instance, some neighborhood guidelines restrict you from hardscaping more than a certain square footage.

DO Designate a Pet-Friendly Space

Do you allow pets in your rental property? If yes, you should designate a separate section of the lawn for them. You can use fencing or other markers to set strict boundaries for this space. Use pea gravel or mulch to cover the pet-friendly turf.

DO Ensure Proper Drainage

Large stones, landscaping timbers, and retaining walls can block drainage in your rental property. Make sure to remove any obstacles that increase the risk of drainage issues. Plus, regularly maintain the landscaping to fix any drainage problems before they become more costly.

DO Consider Spacing Needs

You want to be mindful about the distance between trees and your property’s foundation.

If you have large trees, keep a minimum distance of 30 feet. If you have small trees, keep them at least 10 feet away from the property’s foundation. As the trees grow, their roots grow, too. This means that the structural integrity of your rental property could be in danger if you don’t consider this distance.

DO Plant Local Varieties and Perennials

You’ll save money on expensive fertilizers and complicated irrigation if you opt for local plant varieties. For instance, consider purchasing regional flowers. These will cost you less money compared to exotic ones. Not to mention, your ecological impact will lessen as well.

Additionally, consider planting perennials in your rental property’s yard. This type of plant demands less water and care. This is a great choice, especially if your rental is in an area that experiences frequent droughts.

Here is What you DON’T Want to Do:

Now that we’ve considered what you should do, here are some of the things you want to avoid.

DON’T Install Excess Paving

Most tenants love to have greenery surrounding their home. For this reason, don’t install too much paving. This can hurt the aesthetics and decrease tenant satisfaction. Plus, excess paving increases the potential for flooding and mold growth.

DON’T Add too Many Water Features

Water features such as fountains and cascades are a beautiful and serene addition to any yard. However, these features demand a lot of upkeep and result in a more expensive water bill. You should only consider these features if you have an upscale rental property.

DON’T Neglect the Lawn

Mow the lawn on a regular basis. If you only have enough time to tackle one landscaping duty, this is the one you should choose because unkempt lawns hurt the curb appeal and reduce tenants’ quality of life.

DON’T Pick Niche Design Solutions

Personalized landscaping design schemes work for individual homeowners. That said, you should keep your rental properties more neutral. This will help to attract and retain quality tenants. If you cater to the average taste, you’ll be safer. Unusual choices could potentially increase your vacancies.

DON’T: Waste too Much Water

Consider installing a smart sprinkler. This digitally backed system will reduce water waste in your rental unit. You can pre-program the system to water the lawn at specific times and choose the maximum water output.

In a Nutshell: Rental Property Landscaping Dos and Don’ts

As a landlord, you shouldn’t ignore your rental property landscaping needs. While you may always have more urgent tasks at hand, it’s important that you find ways to conduct regular landscaping maintenance and improvements.

In general, here are some takeaway points to up your rental’s landscaping game:

• Refrain from personalizing or niche designing solutions.
• Follow spacing requirements between trees and the property’s foundation.
• Regularly check whether the property has efficient drainage.
• Install a smart sprinkler system for eco-friendly irrigation.
• Plant local varieties and perennials in the yard.
• Reconsider any advanced water features.
• Research and comply with local regulations.
• Consider opening a pet-friendly space.
• Avoid the installation of excess pavement.

Finally, if you’re limited on time, always prioritize mowing the lawn. This will make the yard look fresh, attractive and cared for.

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Every landscape architect will have their own unique description of what they do. From historical preservation, to golf course design, commercial projects, residential, and property management, landscape architects are involved. The field of landscape architecture overlaps many studies including ecology, engineering, architecture, sociology, horticulture, soil sciences, graphic communication and art, to name a few. Fredrick Law Olmstead is considered the father of American landscape architecture and pioneered the field in the late nineteenth century.

One of Fredrick Law Olmstead greatest works was Central Park in New York City. At 840 acres, Central Park is a true oasis in the middle of the city, a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. The trees provide shade from the sun on hot summer days. The pathways meander through scenic landscapes and frames views that inspire. This is a timeless masterpiece that keeps reinventing itself. Even though parts of the park were closed due to the pandemic, users were still able to walk through the park and experience the positive effect of nature.

Definition of a Landscape Architect:

From the ASLA: Landscape architecture involves the planning, design, management, and nurturing of the built and natural environments. With their unique skill set, landscape architects work to improve human and environmental health in all communities. They plan and design parks, campuses, streetscapes, trails, plazas, residences, and other projects that strengthen communities. 

Illinois Title Law: Landscape architects are responsible for arranging outdoor spaces and objects to create a safe, efficient, healthful and aesthetically pleasing environment.

Colorado Code of Regulations: Landscape architects lead the planning, design, and stewardship of healthy, equitable, safe, and resilient environments.

The role of a landscape architect is to know what professional to turn to solve a complex problem in the landscape, knowing when to consult a civil engineer or architect. The difference between an engineered solution and one by a landscape architect – an engineered solution will be more of a mathematical, efficient solution, where the landscape architecture solution takes more of the character of the site as a whole into consideration. 

Landscape architects are not substitutes for engineers, architects, and other scientists, but there is some overlap in the tasks a landscape architect performs, such as preparation of grading plans, design of decks, outdoor structures, and retaining walls. The landscape architects at MackLand focus on commercial landscape design plans.

Different states have different laws governing what landscape architects can do.  One of the biggest challenges that one faces after going through the rigorous process of an accredited landscape architecture program and the following testing for licensure, is others claiming to be able to do the same without the same credentials. 

Every landscape architect tends to develop their own niche in the field. Here at MackLand, we are swimming pool specialists. We remove old pools and install new ones.  When we remove swimming pools, we make a great effort to restore the yard as much as possible to how it was prior to the pool.  Taking into consideration character, grading, and soil profiles so that when we are completed with our project, you can not tell there was a pool there. 

As a commitment to the sustainability of the swimming pool industry, we recommend hauling all of the old pool offsite. This is to make the area where the pool was as usable as possible. You never know when a future resident may want to put a pool back in.

During a pool removal, a lot of landscape problems can come up.  Such as what to do next, figuring out hardscape issues, designing of a new patio and planting, and in general, how to utilize the new space. 

When we install swimming pools, we design custom pools and hardscape to meet the needs of our clients with functional space, adding value and character to the area.  Creating a backyard oasis that adds long lasting value to the property.  One of our biggest assets is that our pool removal business has given us a unique perspective on what works and what doesn’t. 

If you are looking for a landscape architect to help you with your next project, give us a call. We would love to work with you.

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