by admin | Jun 3, 2016 | News
Agaves and yuccas are beautiful ornamental plants that are often used to accent xeriscape gardens. For the most part, they do not have serious pest problems. However, it’s fairly common for them to become infected with agave snout. What is Agave Snout Weevil? The agave snout weevil (Scyphophorus acupunctatus) adult measures about 1/2-inch long, has a dull brownish-black body and a characteristic long snout. The adult females chew their way into the agave plant base and lay their eggs while also introducing microorganisms that cause decay. These eggs hatch into legless grubs that have a cream-colored body and dark head. The larvae feed, burrowing further into the decaying agave before pupating and emerging as adults, which then spread to infect nearby agaves and sometimes yuccas. The entire agave snout weevil life cycle can be completed in 60 to 90 days. Agave snout weevil feeding may not be apparent until damage is already very extensive. Small holes may first be visible at the base of the agave. The plant will collapse rapidly, with its lowest leaves shriveling first. The center of the agave may have an unpleasant odor and the specimen may be loose and wiggle easily if tugged. Agave plants that are weak or about to flower are especially vulnerable. The agave snout weevil can attack any agave, but larger specimens with broad leaves such as the century plant are particularly attractive to the weevil. How to Prevent Agave Snout Weevil? The best way to avoid agave snout, is to only purchase plants from a reliable source and inspect bare-root for any signs of weevils. You can also use preventative chemical treatments...
by admin | May 3, 2016 | News
In the desert southwest, the use of rusted steel in the landscape has become more and more popular. The oranges and reds in the rusted metal fit in well to our desert landscape and play off the colors in our surrounding desert landscape. The easiest way to incorporate steel into the landscape is either edging to separate planting areas from grass or walkways, or to build raised planting beds. What’s nice about steel is it’s easy to customize too. Things to consider: 1. Steel will rust and can stain existing walkways 2. Any cut edges need to be ground down to eliminate any sharp edges 3. The appropriate gauge of steel is necessary to avoid any unwanted bends in the steel Landscaping by Andre is available for free consultations on any design or construction projects you may be considering. Call us at 480-483-8088 to get started...
by admin | Apr 20, 2016 | News
Planting trees is one of the easiest ways to combat climate change and celebrate Earth Day on April 22. Research indicates that a prevalence of trees is linked to safer neighborhoods, less urban heat and increased property values. In addition, trees produce oxygen to help clean the air, provide a wildlife habitat and reduce storm water runoff. Selecting the correct location for a new tree is important both for the success of the tree and energy conservation. Locate trees to provide summer shade to the west and east windows. Plant trees to provide summer shade for patios, driveways and air conditioners. Use deciduous trees on the south side of buildings as the bare branches of these solar-friendly trees allow the most winter sunlight to filter through. Before you plant your next tree, call 480-483-8088 and we’ll help you select the most appropriate tree for your yard and make sure it will last for years to...
by admin | Mar 10, 2016 | News
We have begun to notice that some Phoenix area Oleander’s have contracted a bacterial disease called oleander leaf scorch. This disease is the reason the leaves on these long-lived shrubs are drooping, turning brown and dying. As the disease progresses, more branches of the plant are affected and the plant dies. Symptoms can be expressed year-round, although they may be more noticeable in late spring and summer; they develop more quickly in warm weather. It can take three to five years from the time symptoms are spotted for an oleander to die. Cutting off affected branches may slow progress of the disease, but won’t stop it. Fortunately, the bacteria that causes oleander leaf scorch does not survive in the soil where the plant was growing. Thus other shrubs and trees can be planted in the same spot. In some cases, the oleanders’ demise can be an opportunity to bring new and unusual plants to the landscape that will serve the same purpose and are equally drought tolerant! Be sure to use caution when removing dead oleanders because of their poisonous state, or call Landscaping by Andre to assist with the removal. For more information on oleander leaf scorch or to have us evaluate your oleanders, call us at...
by admin | Mar 2, 2016 | News
DIY projects can be great, but don’t forget some basic tips to make your landscaping project successful. Don’t plant trees too close to each other, or too close to a pool Do make sure your irrigation systems is properly set up Don’t overloaded lighting systems by adding too many lights to an under-powered transformer Don’t use duct tape (which is conductive) to connect two landscape lighting wires Be mindful of planting tropical plants in the desert Don’t forget about LED lighting, it’s a great way to save money and time (you don’t have to change the light bulbs as often) As always, if you have a project in mind and need some assistance, don’t hesitate to call us. Our team has decades of experience in constructing, designing and maintaining homes and office buildings. To schedule a free estimate, call us...
