outdoor-living-space-olathe
By Lisa Allen Tips and Tricks • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

How to Prepare Your Olathe Outdoor Living Space for Winter

While some outdoor living spaces can be used almost year-round, like an enclosed porch, others need a little extra care as temperatures move from warm to cold. Taking preventive measures now, before the temperatures drop, can save your outdoor living space from unnecessary damage during our cold weather months.

outdoor-living-space-olathePrepare Your Outdoor Living Space for Winter Weather

Your winter preparation checklist will vary depending on which elements you have in your lawn and landscape. Keep reading for tips that pertain to our most popular outdoor living spaces:

Outdoor Fire Elements 

Outdoor fire elements like fire pits and fireplaces are examples of outdoor improvements that you can continue to use even when temperatures make being outdoors difficult. Provided you’ve stocked plenty of firewood and you bundle up to protect yourself from the elements, you can cozy up with friends and family around a fire unless temperatures are severe.

You’ll want to be sure that you keep the area free of debris ( this is a good tip for year-round maintenance) and that you’ve pruned any foliage that encroaches on the area in which you’ll build a fire. 

Outdoor Water Elements

Outdoor water elements like koi ponds and fountains should be winterized. Be sure to clean the area and make sure it’s free of debris. Drain all pumps, heaters, filters, and other pieces of equipment to prevent cracking or breakage. You should also cover water elements to keep unwanted visitors away and to inhibit mold or algae growth. 

Walkways and Stone Work

If you’ve had pavers installed or have created any kind of walkway, you’ll want to ensure that the area is safe even during the coldest of winters. To start, make sure the area is clean. Remove any debris, including fallen leaves or dead foliage. Reseal the area if necessary (or hire a professional to do so). 

Outdoor Lighting Elements

Even if you’re not using your outdoor space as much during cold weather, you’ll still want to make sure that you have proper lighting and that it continues to work well. Before it gets so cold that you don’t enjoy working outdoors, check all outdoor lighting elements and change bulbs where necessary. You might consider switching to high-efficiency options, especially if you use the lighting element year-round.

Outdoor Patio Furniture

Outdoor furniture is built to withstand all weather conditions, but it’s still important to take precautions to help it last as long as possible. Cover furniture with weather-resistant coverings, especially anything soft like cushions or chair pads. Another important thing to do is to check wood and other natural elements. Painting with a waterproof sealer can help keep wear and tear at bay.

Curious about the other projects we’ve really enjoyed lately? Visit us on Facebook or take a look at our website. And, as always, we’re here to help with whatever project you have in mind. 

By Lisa Allen Tips and Tricks • • • • • • • • • 0 Comments

How to Prepare Your Olathe Lawn for Winter

Our cooler nights and earlier sunsets mean one thing: winter is getting closer to Olathe. Soon we’ll be bundling up in layers and switching from AC to heat. Before colder temperatures move in, there are specific things you can do to help prepare your Olathe lawn and your outdoor spaces and protect them from the elements.

Prepare Your Olathe Lawn for Winter Weather

When it comes to your lawn and landscape, it’s important to remember that winter weather preparation comes down to two categories: preparation and preservation.

To prepare your lawn for coming cold and freezing temperatures, you should consider doing these things:

  • Clean up: make sure your outdoor space is free of debris. Rake up any remaining fallen leaves, trim back dead foliage, and generally clean the space. This not only makes your space look nice. It also helps your lawn and landscape elements direct energy to appropriate growth. Fallen leaves might look innocent–and pretty–enough, but can actually smother your lawn if not removed. This doesn’t mean that they can’t serve other purposes, though. Fallen and collected leaves are a fantastic addition to a home compost pile. If you don’t compost, you might check to see if your community does. Some communities, like Olathe, have community gardens that accept compost material. Others have drop-off compost sites like this one. Be sure to check the specifics for each. For example, the community garden compost at the Sunset Administration Building in Olathe accepts some kitchen scraps while the drop-off yard compost site in Olathe accepts only lawn waste. 
  • Aerate: Core aeration is a way to prevent compacted soil, which can lead to an unhealthy and unsightly lawn. Our soil in Johnson County is particularly dense because of the amount of clay it holds. Aerating helps open up that soil so that the roots of grasses and other plants can grow appropriately.
  • Overseed the lawn: Fall is the ideal time to overseed your lawn, particularly with tall fescue and bluegrass. But it’s not as easy as just tossing handfuls of seeds onto your lawn and walking away. You should use proper verticutting and aeration techniques, fertilize properly, and plant the right ratio of seeds to soil. 

If this all sounds confusing, we can help you prepare your lawn and plant the grasses you want. Just give us a call!


How to Preserve Your Lawn Over the Winter

  • Leave your grass shorter for the winter. Think of it as a nice haircut before hibernation sets in. Cutting it shorter than you would in warmer months help keep it pest-free (mice and other pests look for anything that will offer warmth as the temps drop) and keep it as healthy as possible. 
  • You can also fertilize your lawn in the Fall. If you’ve not yet tested your soil to see which fertilizer is best for your lawn, you can do that as well. Getting the right mix of fertilizer elements is key to properly nourishing the soil and the grass seed you will plant.

    One final tip: when it does get icy, try to not walk on your lawn if at all possible. Scott’s says that even the strongest lawns can become weak if walked on too much. 

We’re ready to help you transition from summer to winter! Keep track of what we’re up to on Facebook or send us a note to get started. 

By Lisa Allen Snow Removal • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Why Working with a Professional for Snow Removal is Good for the Environment

It’s early November now and the afternoon temperatures feel close to perfect. But before we know it, we’ll be dealing with colder temperatures and—sooner rather than later—we’ll have to start thinking about snow removal. In fact, the Farmer’s Almanac predicts that the Kansas City area will be colder and snowier than in years past.

What does this mean for you? If you have a business that depends on foot traffic or people being able to navigate your parking lot, it means you’ll need snow removal services. It’s something we do well—and something we’d like to help you learn more about. Keep reading to learn why contracting with a professional snow removal company can be environmentally friendly.

Grab Your Shovel!

It makes sense that the most environmentally friendly method of snow removal is by shoveling. Other perks of shoveling are cost (shovels and brooms are inexpensive) and exercise (is there a better workout?).

But there are also drawbacks and limitations. If you have a large area to clear, if the snowfall is significant, if you’re short manpower, or if you have health conditions that prevent you from exerting yourself, shoveling won’t be an option for you.

Add Snow Removal Equipment

If you have a small area to clear or the snowfall is manageable, you might be able to manage the chore by using a snowblower. If you’re concerned about the environmental impacts of using such equipment, you want to pay attention to the power source.

Gas powered equipment has a bigger carbon footprint than equipment powered by electricity or batteries, so it makes sense to opt for equipment powered by the latter. That doesn’t always mean, though, that those options are affordable or easily available.

But, like shoveling, snow blowing is often not a viable option for businesses. It might be that you have too many other tasks to do in the running of your business to make time for removing all that snow; or it might be that you don’t have the staff or know-how necessary to get it done well.

If that’s the case, contracting with a professional snow removal agency can be both an environmentally friendly option and it can help you save money and time in the long run.

Snow Removal Experts: We Get the Job Done

How can a professional snow removal company help save you money and time and protect the environment?

One way is by having the right equipment. Snow removal companies in the Kansas City area have industrial size snowplows and trucks; this means less time powering equipment, which means less of a carbon footprint.

We also know which products are safest to use. For example, some chemicals in deicing products can adversely affect your landscaping and road surfaces. By using the correct products, a snow removal company can efficiently remove snow without harming your landscaping, your parking lot, or our community’s roadways.

There are countless other reasons to trust a professional with your snow removal needs, and we’re here and eager to help when you’re ready. Give us a call to learn more…before the snow starts to fall!

By Lisa Allen News • • • • • • • 0 Comments

Why You Should Utilize Your Snow Removal Service Provider

Why You Should Utilize Your Snow Removal Service Provider

Why You Should Utilize Your Snow Removal Service Provider

Picture this: you’re cozy, curled up with family after a warm, delicious meal. Maybe the Christmas tree lights are twinkling. Maybe your dog is snoring. No matter the details, the scene is the epitome of serene: a blanket of snow outside and more on the way, warm beverages to share, and nowhere to be other than right here.

Now come back to reality. The hard truth is this: snow means work. It means shoveling and blowing and bundling up in layers to stay somewhat warm. It means huffing and puffing and sweating under all that insulation. And, if you own a business, snow can also mean liablity: what if someone slips and falls? What if you steer your snowplow into a client’s car? What if…. it’s what keeps business owners awake at night.

The bad news is that we cannot make the snow stop—nor can we prevent ice or cold temperatures or the need to deal with it all. The good news is that we can take those worries away and make sure you stay warm, cozy, and happy all the way to Spring. To be honest, that’s just one of the many reasons you should call us to take care of snow removal. Need more reason than saving time that can be spent doing anything that makes you happy? Here are two more:

Snow Removal Service Providers Save You Money

Sure, there’s a cost involved in hiring a professional snow removal service. But have you looked at the cost of snow removal equipment? There’s not just the initial investment, which runs into the thousands; there’s also maintenance, and storage, and insurance. Think of how much trying to DIY your snow removal efforts will add to your bottom line and compare that to the fee you’ll pay. Chances are, you’ll save money in the long-run.

Snow Removal Services Give You Piece of Mind

Sometimes the best investment of all is knowing that something will be done even if you can’t—or don’t want to—do it. What with holiday travel, family obligations, and everything else that comes with this time of year, it’s likely that snow and ice may happen when you’re not even here. Who do you call then?

When you’ve built a relationship with a snow removal professional, you can be confident not only that your paths and parking lots will be clear, but that it will be done quickly. More importantly, it will be done correctly. The peace of mind that comes from knowing that others will be safe on your property, whether that’s a neighborhood sidewalk or a business parking lot, is priceless.

There are other benefits, to be sure—and just like your landscaping needs, we know your snow removal, salting, and de-icing needs are unique. Give us a call and let’s find a way to help you enjoy this season just a bit more.

5 Must-Do Landscaping Tips to Prepare Your Lawn for Winter
By Lisa Allen Landscape • Tips and Tricks • • • • • • 0 Comments

6 Must-Do Landscaping Tips to Prepare Your Lawn for Winter

6 Must-Do Landscaping Tips to Prepare Your Lawn for Winter

It’s time to think about ice, snow, and freezing temperatures—and how those elements affect your lawn. Before it turns too cold to be outside, think about doing the following to ensure your lawn is prepared for its long winter’s nap.

1) Keep It Clean

We’ve said it once, but we’ll say it again: it’s vital to rake leaves and remove debris from your lawn before snow and ice settles in. If there’s still time to mow, do that now—not only is it important to cut your grass shorter before winter comes, but mowing will shred any leaves you’ve missed while raking.

2) Aerate and Seed

Now’s the time to aerate and seed for next season. Doing so in the fall helps fill in bare spots. It’s also important to water your lawn, fertilize trees, and cut back perennials. Not sure how or when to aerate, or need help with seeding your lawn? We’d love to help.

4) Prep Your Plants

You want to protect your plants as much as possible to help them survive freezing temperatures. To do this, be sure to mulch; remove dead leaves/branches and debris; and, if appropriate, wrap with burlap or another protective cover. Have roses? Learn more about caring for them here.

5) Clear the Lines

If you have an outdoor kitchen, it’s imperative to turn off water sources and to drain lines. Same is true of your sprinkler system. Making sure all water is drained will prevent freezing, which can lead to significant damage.

6) Plant for Later

Even though you can see your breath on some Fall mornings, the soil is still relatively warm, which means it’s a great time to plant bulbs, trees, and shrubs. October is the prime month for this planting, so don’t wait—if you haven’t yet, get busy and cross this task off your list! You’ll be glad you did once the snow clears and buds start appearing next Spring.

Need help getting your lawn and landscape ready for our impending Kansas winter? If so, you don’t have to do it alone. We’re here to help, whether it’s landscaping, snow removal, or prepping for warmer weather. Take a peek at the projects we’ve been working on over on our Facebook page, or give us a call to talk!

benefits of commercial snow removal
By Lisa Allen Landscape • Management • • • • • • 0 Comments

Benefits of Commercial Snow Removal Services

benefits of commercial snow removal

Let’s talk about snow. Yes, snow! We know it might sound a bit premature to be thinking about the cold, white stuff now, since we’re still knee-deep in summer. But trust us: it’s better to think about—and plan for—snow now, than it is to wait until Mother Nature has covered Kansas City and left us scrambling for shovels.

When you think about it, contracting commercial snow removal services is no different than relying on your Olathe landscaper for summer flower beds. Snow removal can be hard work and, because weather in Kansas City can be unpredictable, dealing with winter storms can require more manpower and expertise than you might have.

The Right Tools Mean a Job Well Done

One of the most important things a commercial snow removal service can do is show up with the right tools. The shovel you use on your driveway won’t clear a parking lot—and trying to clear snow from even a small space can take much more time than one might think.

Whether you have to shovel a driveway and a sidewalk so you can come and go from your home, or a parking lot so your customers can still come to your business to shop or purchase your services, relying on professionals to clear the path means that work will be done quickly.

Using a Commercial Snow Removal Service is Smart Business

If you’re a DYI’er you might think that clearing snow is something you can do easily on your own. That might be true—sometimes. If the snow is more of a dusting that a deluge, you might be right. It might even be fun to suit up and play for awhile (snowball fight and hot chocolate, anyone?)!

But if you own a business, snow removal isn’t about fun. Snow and ice can mean liability issues, and liability issues affect the bottom line. It’s smart to check with your insurance company to make sure that you’re doing everything possible to create a safe, passable path for customers, employees, delivery people, and even strangers who might set foot on your property.

It’s About Time

OK, we’ll admit it: playing in the snow can be fun! A good old fashioned snowball fight, picking the perfect carrot so your snowman has a nose, even forging an igloo in your front yard—many a perfect photo has been snapped with a perfectly white backdrop and cherry red cheeks.

But the thing is, we all have incredibly busy lives. There’s only so much time to get everything done. If you’re shoveling and snow blowing, that’s time taken away from making snow angels with your kids or grandkids. It’s energy expended that could be spent making new memories with the people you love.

We’re not just a landscape company. We’re people who love family and know how precious every moment is. Let us do what we do best—even when it snows—so you can do what matters most to you.

By ddmg Do It Yourself • Landscape • Renovation • Tips and Tricks • • • 0 Comments

What Type of Olathe Winter Landscaping Can Be Done This Winter?

The first frost is right around the corner. The weather has took a turn. It’s getting colder. Fall is in full-swing, and winter isn’t far behind. For most people, this means hot chocolate and a little heat coming from the fireplace.

But you’re not most people. You’re a landscaper. You’re glistening green lawn is always on your mind. You want to have the best Olathe landscaping in the area. So you know that waiting until spring isn’t going to happen.

You need some winter landscaping tips to tide you over. Luckily, we’re Olathe landscaping addicts, too. It’s what we do best here at Huston Contracting.

What Type of Olathe Winter Landscaping Can Be Done This Winter? 5 Tips & Tricks

With that in mind, we’ve detailed a few Olathe landscaping tips and tricks for those with a “green thumb” that don’t mind a little cold weather.

Let’s dive in:

Keep Water Running

Your fountains, ponds, and waterfalls don’t have to go lifeless in the winter months. When the rest of your landscape is lifeless, your water fixtures can provide needed movement.

Just grab a de-icer, an aerator, and water heater. Your ponds and waterfalls will be able to keep running year around. The continuous moving water will be an eye-catcher in the winter months when other landscaping elements don’t draw much attention.

Winter Blooms

You can plant flowers and plants that bloom around the wintertime, too. Not every plant around your landscaping needs to bloom in the spring.

Add some Blue Holly, Winter Hazel, or Camellia to your landscaping. These plants will bloom in the winter months, which ensures a little color around your lawn while it’s cold outside. Certain red berries also bloom in the cold and can look stunning in the snow.

Your “Hardscaping”

What is hardscaping around your lawn? These are items like benches, chairs, garden fixtures, and outdoor kitchens. While plants often don’t grow in the winter, you can make any fixtures upgrades needed during this time.

Another benefit of upgrading fixtures in the winter? You can focus on focal points without all that lush greenery in the way. Many times, this will help homeowners find the ideal focal point for their landscape when the plants come back to life.

Use Lighting

There’s a reason Christmas lights have gained popularity over the years. Because lighting allows us to add beauty and coloring to the landscape in the winter time.

However, there are other ways to add lighting than Christmas lights. Think about using different lights around your lawn to highlight certain aspects of your landscaping. This can add an impressive focal point to your lawn when done properly.

Plan & Prepare

Finally, you can plan and prepare for the spring. There’s only so much you can do in the winter. As spring rolls around, you’ll have more landscaping opportunities. So take some time to think about your lawn and how you want it to look.

Next, get in touch with our team here at Huston Contracting. We’ll listen to your landscaping idea, offer suggestions, and see if we can help you create the Olathe landscape of your dreams in the coming months!