There is nothing quite like stepping outside into a private oasis for a little escape into nature – perhaps now a more important practice than ever! However, landscaping encompasses so much more than beautiful gardens and freshly mowed grass. Landscapers harness some of the otherwise unruly elements of the natural world and refine them for optimal form, function and appearance.
Simply put, it all starts with the soil. Not all soils are the same and it is important to have an expert who can help you understand the land you live on. Properly graded land and retaining walls where needed help to prevent soil erosion and encourage proper water drainage throughout a property. Plus, it prevents you from coming home to discover an impromptu pond in your backyard from flooding and possible water damage.
Where there is healthy, nutrient-rich soil, you can expect a beautiful array of greenery. Think of your landscaper as your horticulture expert. They can help you select plant species that will thrive in the various environments of your property and help you take advantage of their benefits. For example, the addition of evergreen and deciduous trees increases the air quality around your home as well as provides shade, which can mitigate sun exposure and decrease overall energy costs. Add in a well-placed water feature, such as a pond or fountain, and you have yourself a paradise.
Just like soil, not all plants are created equal. Once the plants are thriving, you will need someone to carefully maintain them and cater to their needs so that they can cater to yours. Preventative maintenance keeps overgrowth in check and your landscaper can identify and remove diseased plants and keep invasive species at bay.
Any improvement made to your home’s exterior will obviously boost the overall the curb appeal of the space. While reports vary for an exact ROI for landscaping based on the type of project and style of investment, properties with well-maintained landscapes and feature elements see a dramatic improvement in resale value over homes with lackluster exteriors.
On top of home value, there is a long-recognized link between the natural environment and our mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. Being surrounded by greenery can help you recover faster from illness, stress and injury. Environmental psychologist, Roger Ulrich, presented data showing that surgical patients who could see nature outside their hospital room window experienced fewer post-procedure complications, required less pain medication, and spent less time in the hospital in his 1984 paper, The View Through A Window. A growing field called ecotherapy has confirmed the strong connection between exposure to the natural environment and improved mental health. Practitioners suggest that spending 20 to 30 minutes, three days a week, in a natural setting will yield beneficial results. After 2020, we can all use more positive influences on our health.
For these reasons, it is imperative to be attentive when selecting a landscape contractor for your home and be diligent when looking over any quotes or proposals from those you are looking to hire. Ask your landscapers in advance about their credentials and be sure to get a detailed scope of the overall project, necessary materials and timeline for completion. Most importantly, keep an open line of communication with your contractor for important updates as the project develops. A good landscaper will strive to actualize their client’s vision and ensure that they get what they paid for!
If you are looking for a reliable landscape contractor in the Berks County area, please feel free to contact PKF Industries Inc. at 610-972-0269 or click here to contact us online for more information on their services.
