Tag Archives: Prescott AZ

The Benefits of Professional Landscaping Maintenance: Keeping Your Arizona Landscape Thriving in the Summer

Maintaining a thriving landscape in Arizona’s hot and arid summers can be a challenging task for homeowners. However, the benefits of hiring a professional such as Vicente Landscaping can be beneficial. Here’s how we can help.

Expertise and Knowledge:

We possess the expertise and knowledge needed to understand the unique requirements of Arizona’s climate. We are well-versed in selecting and maintaining plants that are suitable for the region’s hot and dry conditions. With our guidance, you can create a sustainable and water-efficient landscape that thrives despite the summer heat.

Regular Maintenance:

We offer regular maintenance services, taking care of essential tasks like mowing, pruning, and fertilizing. By adhering to a consistent maintenance schedule, we ensure that your landscape stays healthy and well-maintained. 

Water Management:

Water is a precious resource in Arizona, and our crew is skilled in water management techniques. We can optimize irrigation systems, ensuring that water is distributed efficiently and not wasted through runoff or evaporation. With our expertise, we can also recommend and install water-saving technologies, such as smart irrigation controllers and drip irrigation systems, helping you conserve water while keeping your landscape lush and vibrant.

Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal:

One of the significant benefits of hiring a professional landscaping company is the improved aesthetic appeal that they can bring to your property. We  have an eye for design and can create visually stunning landscapes that complement your home’s architecture and style. We can also incorporate elements such as seasonal flowers, ornamental grasses, and hardscape features to enhance the beauty and overall curb appeal of your outdoor space.

Time and Effort Savings:

Maintaining a landscape requires time, effort, and ongoing attention. By hiring Vicente Landscaping, you can free up your valuable time and leave the tedious tasks to the experts. Instead of spending your weekends working in the yard, you can relax and enjoy your outdoor space, confident that it’s in capable hands.

Beat the Arizona Heat: Designing a Drought-Tolerant Landscape

Living in Arizona presents unique challenges when it comes to landscaping due to the intense summer heat and limited water resources. However, with the right strategies, you can design a stunning and drought-tolerant landscape that thrives in Arizona’s climate. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essentials of creating a water-efficient landscape in Arizona, helping you beat the heat and transform your outdoor space into a resilient oasis. 

Choose Native Plants Adapted to Arizona’s Climate:

Native plants are well-suited to Arizona’s arid conditions and require minimal water once established. Embrace a variety of native species like Desert Marigold, Purple Sage, and Agave to create a visually appealing landscape that can withstand the desert heat. These plants not only conserve water but also support the local ecosystem.

Implement Efficient Irrigation Systems:

To minimize water waste, opt for efficient irrigation systems such as drip irrigation or micro-sprinklers. These systems deliver water directly to the roots, reducing evaporation and ensuring optimal water usage. Consider integrating smart irrigation controllers that adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions, further conserving water resources.

Strategically Plan Plant Placement:

Proper plant placement is key to a water-efficient landscape. Group plants with similar water requirements together in hydrozones, ensuring efficient water usage. Place high-water-use plants in areas that can be easily irrigated separately, while grouping drought-tolerant plants in zones that require less water. This approach prevents overwatering or underwatering and promotes healthier plant growth.

Utilize Mulch and Rock Features:

Mulching and incorporating rock features offer multiple benefits in a drought-tolerant landscape. Apply a layer of organic mulch or landscape rock around plants to reduce evaporation, suppress weed growth, and retain soil moisture. Additionally, utilize decorative gravel or rocks in areas where plants may struggle to thrive, minimizing the need for irrigation and adding visual interest to your landscape.

Create Shade and Integrate Hardscaping:

Integrate shade structures, such as pergolas or strategically planted trees, to provide relief from the intense Arizona sun. These features not only reduce water evaporation but also create comfortable outdoor spaces. Consider incorporating hardscaping elements like patios and decks to minimize water-dependent vegetation while adding functional and visually appealing areas for relaxation and entertainment.

Conclusion:

Designing a drought-tolerant landscape in Arizona is both environmentally responsible and visually captivating. By choosing native plants, implementing efficient irrigation systems, strategically placing plants, utilizing mulch and rocks, and incorporating shade and hardscaping, you can create a resilient outdoor space that thrives despite the arid conditions. For professional guidance and assistance in transforming your landscape, call Vicente Landscaping at 928-636-1601. Beat the Arizona heat and create a beautiful, water-wise oasis for your enjoyment during summer and throughout the year.

What is Xeriscaping? How to Create a Beautiful and Sustainable Landscape in Arizona

Xeriscaping is a type of landscaping that emphasizes minimal water usage while still creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space. It is especially important in dry and arid climates like Arizona, where water conservation is becoming increasingly important due to limited resources and increasing demand.

The key to xeriscaping is designing a landscape that is adapted to the local environment and uses plants and materials that are well-suited to the climate. This often involves selecting plants that are drought-resistant and native to the area, as well as using efficient irrigation systems and other water-saving techniques. By minimizing water usage, xeriscaping can help reduce the impact of landscaping on the environment and conserve resources for other uses.

One of the biggest advantages of xeriscaping is that it is often low-maintenance. Unlike traditional lawns and gardens, xeriscaped landscapes require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance. Many native desert plants are adapted to thrive in hot, dry conditions, and can survive on little water once established. This means that homeowners can enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor space without having to spend a lot of time and effort on maintenance.

Xeriscaped landscapes are often more resistant to pests and diseases than traditional lawns and gardens, and can be designed to attract beneficial wildlife like pollinators and birds. Plus, the unique textures and colors of desert-adapted plants can create a beautiful and distinctive outdoor space that reflects the natural beauty of the surrounding environment.

Overall, xeriscaping is a smart and sustainable choice for homeowners in Arizona and other dry climates. By designing a landscape that is adapted to the local environment and uses minimal water, homeowners can enjoy a beautiful and functional outdoor space while also conserving resources and minimizing their impact on the environment. If you’re interested in xeriscaping your own yard, give us a call at (928)-636-1601 so that we can help you select the right plants and materials for your space.

Illuminating Your Outdoor Space: The Benefits of Outdoor Patio Lighting

As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, many homeowners in Arizona are looking to enhance their outdoor living spaces. One essential element of any great outdoor space is lighting. While many homeowners focus on functional lighting to light up walkways or to keep their outdoor spaces safe at night, outdoor patio lighting is just as important for creating the perfect atmosphere.

Here are some reasons why outdoor patio lighting is a must-have for any homeowner looking to create a beautiful outdoor living space:

  1. Create a Warm, Inviting Atmosphere: Adding outdoor patio lighting can create a warm, inviting atmosphere in your backyard, making it the perfect spot for entertaining guests or spending time with family. Soft, warm lighting can create a cozy and intimate feel, while brighter lighting can add a touch of drama and excitement.
  2. Highlight Your Outdoor Space: Outdoor patio lighting can help highlight your favorite outdoor features, such as your plants, water features, or architectural elements. The right lighting can make these features the focal point of your outdoor space, making them stand out even at night.
  3. Improve Safety: Outdoor patio lighting can improve safety by providing better visibility in outdoor spaces, preventing trips and falls. The right lighting can make it easier to navigate your outdoor space at night, making it safer for you and your guests.
  4. Extend Your Living Space: With the right lighting, you can extend your living space into the great outdoors. Outdoor patio lighting can create an inviting space to relax and unwind, even after the sun goes down. With the right lighting, you can enjoy your outdoor space well into the evening.
  5. Increase Your Home’s Value: Adding outdoor patio lighting can increase the value of your home, making it more attractive to potential buyers. Outdoor lighting is a popular feature in many high-end homes and can help make your home more desirable to future buyers.

When it comes to outdoor patio lighting, there are many options to choose from. From string lights to low-voltage lighting and all forms of LED landscape lighting, Vicente Landscaping can help you choose the right lighting for your outdoor space. With our years of experience and passion for creating beautiful outdoor spaces, we can help you transform your backyard into the perfect summer retreat. Contact us today at (928)-636-1601 to schedule a consultation and start creating your dream outdoor living space.

Landscaping Tips for the Spring in Central Arizona

Spring is a great time to focus on landscaping in Central Arizona, as the weather is usually cool but pleasant. Here are some tips to get you started:

Plant drought-resistant plants: Central Arizona is known for its arid climate, so it’s important to choose plants that can tolerate the heat and lack of rain. Look for native species, such as desert marigold, purple sage, and fairy duster.

Mulch your garden beds: Mulching can help conserve water and keep your soil cool during the hot summer months. Use a layer of landscape rock or organic material like wood chips or bark, making sure not to cover the base of the plant stem.

Start a compost pile: Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your plants. Start a compost pile in a shady spot in your yard, and add kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials.

Check your irrigation system: Make sure your irrigation system is working properly and adjust it for the changing weather conditions. As the temperature heats up, you may need to water your plants more frequently.

Trim back overgrown plants: Spring is a good time to trim back any overgrown plants to encourage new growth. Be sure to use sharp, clean tools and follow proper pruning techniques.

Add some color: Brighten up your yard with colorful annuals like petunias, pansies, and marigolds. These plants can add some much-needed color to your landscape.

Create outdoor living spaces: Take advantage of the mild weather by creating outdoor living spaces in your yard. Add a patio or deck, some comfortable furniture, and perhaps a fire pit or outdoor kitchen.

Fertilize your plants: Apply a slow-release fertilizer to trees and shrubs to give your plants a boost as they emerge from winter dormancy. 

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and functional landscape that will thrive in the Central Arizona climate. If you’re seeking a professional, award-winning landscaping company, call Vicente Landscaping at (928) 636-1601. 

7 Hearty Plants that Thrive in Prescott, Arizona

Close up top view of green agave plant in the gardens

When it comes to landscaping in Prescott, Arizona, it’s important to choose hearty plants that can survive the hot, dry summers and cold, frosty winters. With its arid climate, harsh weather conditions, and high elevation, the Prescott area presents unique challenges to gardeners and landscapers. However, with the right selection of hearty plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving yard that will flourish year-round. Here are some of the best hearty plants for your yard in Prescott, Arizona:

Agave – This plant is well adapted to the arid climate of Prescott and is known for its striking architectural shape. Agave plants come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, and can add a touch of drama and elegance to any landscape.

Yucca – Another desert native, the yucca plant is a great choice for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant garden. With its spiky foliage and tall, showy blooms, yucca can add texture and interest to your yard.

Globe mallow – This plant is known for its beautiful orange, pink, and red flowers, which bloom in the spring and summer. Globe mallow is also drought-tolerant and can survive in hot, dry conditions.

Apache plume – This shrub is known for its striking white flowers and feathery plumes, which appear in the spring and summer. Apache plume is also drought-tolerant and can add a soft, airy texture to your garden.

Blue grama grass – This native grass is well adapted to the dry conditions of Prescott and can add a natural, prairie-like feel to your landscape. Blue grama grass also requires little water and maintenance.

Purple sage – This aromatic herb is a great choice for a low-maintenance, drought-tolerant garden. With its striking purple flowers and gray-green foliage, purple sage can add both color and texture to your yard. 

Desert willow – This small tree is known for its beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers, which bloom in the spring and summer. Desert willows are also drought-tolerant and can add a touch of elegance to your landscape.

Selecting hearty plants for your yard in Prescott, Arizona is essential for a successful garden. With the right plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving landscape that can withstand the harsh weather conditions of the Prescott area. 

Agave, yucca, globe mallow, Apache plume, blue grama grass, purple sage, and desert willow are just a few of the many plants that can add color, texture, and interest to your garden while thriving in Prescott’s arid climate. If you’re seeking a reliable and professional landscaping company, call Vicente Landscaping at (928) 636-1601.

Why Do You Need an Irrigation Inspection?

The use of drip irrigation is an important tool for water conservation. To be efficient, however, drip systems need to be used properly and inspected regularly.   

By now, your irrigation system should be up and running.  If you started your irrigation system without a full inspection, it’s not too late to perform this step.  In fact, this inspection should be performed periodically throughout the watering season.

When your system is turned on and charged with water, open the irrigation box or boxes and visually inspect the backflow preventer and the valves for leaks.  The backflow valve is often located above ground, possibly under a cover.  

If there are no visible leaks, run your system using the manual setting for each valve, one valve at a time.  As the system is running, walk around the yard, checking for any wet spots in inappropriate areas.  Move from plant to plant and tree to tree checking to ensure that water is dripping freely from each emitter.  Pay special attention to the small lines running to each plant – animals seem to have an uncontrollable need to munch on these and often chew right through the lines. 

Emitters come in various sizes and shapes but all serve the same purpose, gentle delivery of water to your plants.  If water is shooting from the line, chances are good that the emitter is missing and needs to be replaced.  If water is dripping too slowly from the line, the problem is a clogged emitter or mineral build-up.  Remove the emitter and clean out any loose debris.  If the problem is calcification, try soaking the emitter in vinegar to dissolve the mineral deposits. 

In the course of your inspection, be sure to cap any lines that are no longer in use.  This will help to conserve water. 

The advantages to the use of drip irrigation are many.  Water is delivered directly to roots so there is little evaporation or run-off.  Prevention of run-off means that weed growth is minimized and less fertilizer is required.   Most notably, plants will thrive with a regular, consistent watering schedule.

Monthly monitoring throughout the growing season is important to identify irrigation problems before it is too late.  Your plants will often tell you when your irrigation system is not functioning properly.  Yellowing leaves that drop prematurely and plants that droop, even when surrounding soil is moist, are usually signs of overwatering.  Under-watered plants often show distress through wilted, brown or pale leaves.  Pay attention when you plants are telling you that there is a problem.

Popular in the mainstream market in the past few years are “smart” irrigation controllers which use sensors and weather information to manage watering times and frequency. Smart controllers are irrigation clocks that automatically adjust irrigation run times in response to environmental changes. They have the ability to turn off your sprinklers automatically during rain, high wind or low temperatures.  Irrigation systems run by smart controllers have been documented to use up to 25% less water than traditional systems.  Results have been so impressive that some communities have mandated the use of smart controllers in all new landscapes.

If you would like help inspecting your own irrigation system, or if you encounter obstacles, call a licensed landscaping company.  The professionals at Vicente Landscaping will be happy to perform the task for you.  If you are interested in the savings provided through the installation of a smart controller, they would be pleased to discuss that, or any of your landscape needs.  Call the office at 928-636-1601 to set-up an appointment. 

Join Vicente Landscaping and Belgard Pavers!

Vicente Landscaping Partnering with Belgard Pavers

Join Vicente Landscaping and Belgard Pavers at the 2022 YCCA Home Show  

Friday, April 29 – Saturday, April 30: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm  
May 1, Sunday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
3201 N Main St Prescott Valley, AZ 86314

The Yavapai County Contractors Association (YCCA) is hosting its annual Home Show Friday, April 29 thru Sunday, May 1, 2022 at the Findlay Toyota Center in Prescott Valley, Arizona. The event will host more than 200 vendors in the home and health industry to share their ideas, products, and services. No matter if you are a DIY person or would rather pay a professional, there is something you will want to check out at this free admission, indoor and outdoor event. Also, attendees may enter for a chance to win great raffle prizes. Raffle tickets are $1.oo each or buy ten and get three raffle tickets free. Stop by booths 27 and 28 for more information. 

This year, Vicente Landscaping is partnering with Belgard Pavers featuring one of its largest displays. Vicente Landscaping is one of very few Belgard certified landscapers. At this year’s event, visitors will be the first to see the latest Belgard products; ARTFORMS™ and Geometric Pavers. ARTFORMS™ is a revolutionary system utilizes a large-format modular panel system to create infinite design possibilities with ease. High-strength concrete is mechanically fastened with stainless steel hardware creating little to no mess or disruption. Geometric Pavers offers dimension, style and a variety of colors that will surely improve the look of any home.

Don’t miss us at the 2022 YCCA Home Show – April 29, 30 and May 1. Friday and Saturday times are from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Learn more at YCCA.org.

Be Firewise. How to Create a Defensible Space?

A firefighter using a saw to cut some wood for a building to make it safe.

Living adjacent to Prescott’s National Forest is surely is a wonderful way to stay close to nature and enjoy solitude, but there is one drawback. Most of these areas, especially in central Arizona, are wildfire-prone. Given the dry weather throughout Spring and Summer, the local government, as well as the fire department, encourages homeowners to create and maintain wildfire defensible yards. The goal is to reduce your house’s vulnerability and minimize wildfire damage. If you firewise your house in the fall or winter season, this will help firefighters defend your property safely in the coming summer months.

Appropriate landscaping can go a long way in keeping your home safe. These tips help explain how you can minimize the risk of wildfire damage.

Use Landscaping To Protect Your Home

Experts recommended keeping the first 3 to 5 feet of the base area around the house free of plants. Avoid planting shrubs adjacent to the home as they can be easily ignited. Other materials such as organic landscaping mulch, pine needles, leaves, and straw bales should be removed as well. Installing weed fabric under landscape rock is a good idea – it keeps flammable weed at bay.

It’s extremely important to keep your lawn mowed and well-watered. For landscaping, use plants that aren’t highly flammable. The landscaping within 30ft of your home should not include more than just a few scattered plants. Make sure the trees and shrubs grown are all manicured.

Create and Maintain a Defensible Zone

A home’s defense zone is within 30 feet of the house. Remove all dead or dried vegetation, as well as any dead or dying plants, from this zone, and maintain tree branches at least 10 feet away from your chimney and other trees. Wood piles should also be removed.

The reduced zone starts 30 to 100 feet from the house or the property boundary. Make sure annual grass is clipped or mowed to a maximum height of 4 inches within this zone. Depending on the slope of the ground, create a horizontal distance between shrubs that is two to six times the shrub’s height. Depending on the slope of the land, space trees 10 to 30 feet apart.

Tree limbs that are less than 6 feet from the ground should be removed. Allow a clearance distance of at least three times the shrub’s height to the tree’s lowest branch if shrubs are growing underneath it.

Use Non-Flammable Hardscaping

This method will help build fire-safe zones close to your home, ensuring that your home is safe in the event of a fire. Stone, gravel, steel, concrete, and decomposed granite are some of the non-flammable materials that can be used for building retaining walls, planter edging, patios, walkways, and driveways.

Keep the Roof Clean

You may be taking care of all other things to firewise your yard and property, but do not forget the roof. Unfortunately, it is one of the most vulnerable structures of the house during a wildfire. Make an extra effort to remove leaves and other debris off the roof. Do check the gutters for needles and leaves since they can easily ignite.

Use fire retarding roofing material for protecting your roof and prevent fire. Keep tree limbs away from chimneys, power lines, rooftops, and other structures.

These are some great tips to keep your home safe, and we highly recommend you call the  professionals at Vicente Landscaping. They can help with the more difficult tasks, such as tree-trimming and maintaining the exterior landscape areas around your home.

By preparing for a wildfire this winter, you are buying yourself and the first responders more time to effectively respond in case of a fire. By doing these simple things, it’s possible to create a survivable space and defend your house from fire damage.

Beautiful, Hearty Plants that Grow in Northern Arizona

Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley and Flagstaff Arizona

It’s that time of year again and you’re working on sprucing up your northern or central Arizona landscape. It can be a challenge to find plants that are hearty and that can live in our mile-high, four season climates. Here are some suggestions from our team at Vicente Landscaping.

1) ARTEMISIA LUDOVICIANA or ARTEMISIA SAGE BRUSH WHITE – Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley, Flagstaff – Deciduous, full, or part sun, Grows 2 x 3 ft 

Artemisia ludoviciana is a North American species of flowering plant in the daisy family Asteraceae, known by several common names, including silver wormwood, western mugwort, Louisiana wormwood, white sagebrush, and gray sagewort.

2) BUDDLEIA DAVIDII or BUTTERFLY BLACK NIGHT – Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley, Flagstaff – Semi-Deciduous – Full Sun – Grows 6-10ft – Pollinator

Buddleja davidii is also called summer lilac, butterfly-bush and it is widely used as an ornamental plant, and many named varieties are in cultivation.

3) BUXUS MICROPHYLLA or BOXWOOD WINTER GEM – Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley, Flagstaff – Evergreen, Full or Part Sun, Grows 2-4 ft.

The species is grown as an ornamental plant, both in its native area and elsewhere in temperate regions around the world. It is particularly suitable for topiary or low hedging.

4) CEASALPINIA GILLIESII or BIRD OF PARADISE YELLOW – Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley, Flagstaff – Grows 6-10 ft – Full Sun – Deciduous

The Desert Bird of Paradise or Yellow Bird of Paradise, botanical name Caesalpinia gilliesii, is a South American native revered for its red stamens and soft yellow flowers. Its feathery-like foliage is a hummingbird attractor and can soften any arid landscape.

5) CALAMAGROSTIS × ACUTIFLORA or KARL FOERSTER GRASS – Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley, Flagstaff – 3’ x 2’ wide and 5’ tall – Full Sun – Semi Deciduous

‘Karl Foerster’ is the most popular of the hybrid feather reed grasses sold in commerce today. It is noted for its narrow-vertical growth of bright green leaves to 3′ tall and 2′ wide and feathery plumes of summer-blooming pink to purple tinged flowers on narrow upright stalks rising well above the foliage to 5′ tall.

6) COTONEASTER DAMMERI or CLUSTERBERRY LOWFAST – Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley, Flagstaff – Evergreen – Grows 2’ x 6’ – Full or Part Sun – Red Berry

This low growing evergreen is called Cotoneaster dammeri ‘Lowfast’ and grows to an average landscape size of 2′ high and spreading 8-12′, this ground cover spreads rapidly rooting in almost any soil it touches. Its tangled stems grow small elliptical, leathery green leaves that are peppered with small white flowers as spring arrives. Following its blooming season, small bright red berries emerge densely filling in the shrub with color.

7) COGGYGRIA or SMOKE TREE ROYAL PURPLE (Prescott, Prescott Valley, Verde Valley, Flagstaff) – Full Sun – Grows 8’ -15′ – Deciduous 

Dramatic, long-lasting, pinkish purple, smoke-like airy seed clusters backed by reddish purple foliage create a prized small tree or large accent shrub. Foliage holds its color all summer, then turns scarlet red in autumn.

For more Northern Arizona landscape suggestions, contact us at Vicente Landscaping. Or, check out this Plant, Shrub and Cactus Guide to find the right plants that will thrive in your region.