I wanted to share our thoughts on why we don’t recommend adding landscape fabric to our designs. It doesn’t matter if your home is in Pacific Beach or South Park landscape fabric is not the way to go.

1. Ineffective Weed Control:

Weeds can still grow on top of the fabric, and their roots can penetrate through the fabric, making it ineffective in the long run.

2. Soil Compaction and Poor Aeration:

Landscape fabric can lead to soil compaction, reducing the soil’s ability to absorb water and nutrients. It also hinders proper aeration, affecting the overall health of plants and beneficial soil organisms.

3. Limited Water Infiltration:

Landscape fabric restricts water penetration into the soil, leading to poor drainage. This can result in waterlogged roots and various plant diseases, ultimately harming plant health.

4. Difficulty in Planting and Maintenance:

There are many challenges faced during planting and maintenance when landscape fabric is used. Roots find it difficult to penetrate the fabric, making it hard for plants to establish themselves. Also, routine tasks like fertilizing and mulching become cumbersome.

5. Environmental Impact:

Landscape fabric is non-biodegradable nature. Disposing of it can contribute to environmental pollution.

6. Cost-Effectiveness:

There are hidden cost associated with replacing it and compare it when compared to natural weed control methods that might require less investment over time.

7. Natural Alternatives:

Organic mulches, cover crops, and proper plant spacing. These methods can offer effective weed control, retain soil moisture, and promote a healthy ecosystem in your garden.

Once you are familiar with the many drawbacks of using landscape fabric and the importance of considering natural, sustainable methods for weed control and soil health. If you would like to have a landscape design by Cleator Landscape Design please feel free to call our offices at 619 917 3644

Copper Fungicides: Your Natural Defense Against Plant Diseases for San Diego gardens

It doesn’t matter if you live in Point Loma or Del Cerro when it comes to safeguarding your beloved plants from the relentless onslaught of fungal diseases, copper fungicides emerge as a trusted and environmentally friendly solution. In this short blog post, we’ll take a closer look at copper fungicides and why they deserve a place in your gardening toolkit.

What Are Copper Fungicides?

Copper fungicides are plant protection products containing copper compounds as their active ingredient. These compounds, usually in the form of copper ions, are highly effective against a wide range of fungal pathogens that threaten your plants. They’ve been used for decades, and their effectiveness stands the test of time.

How Do Copper Fungicides Work?

Copper fungicides work through several mechanisms, primarily by releasing copper ions that disrupt the fungal cells’ structure and function. This disruption prevents the fungi from growing and spreading, effectively halting the disease in its tracks. Unlike some synthetic chemicals, copper fungicides have a multi-pronged approach to disease control, making it difficult for fungi to develop resistance.

Why Choose Copper Fungicides?

1. Broad-Spectrum Protection: Copper fungicides are renowned for their ability to combat a wide range of fungal diseases. From mildews to blights and rusts, they’ve got you covered.
2. Long-Lasting: Once applied, copper fungicides provide extended protection, reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
3. Environmental Friendliness: Copper is a naturally occurring element, and when used responsibly, copper fungicides have a lower environmental impact compared to some synthetic alternatives.
4. Resistance Prevention: Due to their complex mode of action, fungi are less likely to develop resistance to copper fungicides, ensuring their continued efficacy.

How to Use Copper Fungicides

When using copper fungicides, follow these simple steps:

1. Read the Label: Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific product you’re using.
2. Timing is Key: Apply copper fungicides preventatively or at the first signs of disease for best results.
3. Proper Application: Use recommended dosages and application techniques (sprays, dusts, or drenches) to ensure even coverage.
4. Safety First: Wear protective gear and take necessary precautions during application.
5. Responsible Disposal: Dispose of any unused product and containers according to local regulations.

In conclusion, copper fungicides are a valuable asset in your gardening arsenal, offering effective protection against fungal diseases while respecting the environment. By understanding their mechanisms of action and using them responsibly, you can keep your plants healthy and thriving. So, the next time your garden faces a fungal threat, remember that copper fungicides are there to help you win the battle. If you would like to speak with Cleator Landscape Design about your landscape design needs please feel free to call us at 619 917 3644

Designing an outdoor kitchen is an exciting project regardless if you live in Kensington or Ocean Beach that can greatly enhance your outdoor living space and entertainment capabilities. From functionality to aesthetics, there are several important factors to consider when creating the perfect outdoor kitchen. Here are some key points to include in your blog post:

1. Location and Layout:
   • Choose a location that is convenient and easily accessible from your indoor kitchen and dining area.
   • Consider the prevailing wind direction, sun exposure, and any potential obstructions (trees, buildings) that could affect the comfort of your outdoor kitchen.
2. Functionality and Flow:
   • Plan the layout to optimize the flow between cooking, prep, and serving areas. This can help prevent congestion and create a smoother cooking experience.
   • Group similar functions together, such as placing the grill, prep area, and sink in close proximity for efficiency.
3. Appliances and Equipment:
   • Decide on the appliances you’ll include, such as a grill, smoker, pizza oven, refrigerator, sink, and more. Choose high-quality, weather-resistant appliances built for outdoor use.
   • Consider the fuel source for the grill (gas, charcoal, or electric) and ensure proper ventilation for safety.
4. Materials and Durability:
   • Select durable materials that can withstand outdoor elements, including stainless steel, stone, concrete, and weather-resistant woods.
   • Choose materials that are easy to clean and maintain, as outdoor spaces are more exposed to dirt and debris.
5. Storage and Organization:
   • Incorporate ample storage space for utensils, cookware, and supplies. Cabinets, drawers, and shelves can help keep your outdoor kitchen organized and clutter-free.
6. Countertop Space:
   • Having sufficient countertop space is crucial for food preparation, plating, and serving. Consider materials like granite or concrete that are both durable and visually appealing.
7. Seating and Entertainment:
   • Include comfortable seating options for your guests, such as outdoor dining sets, bar stools, or even lounge areas.
   • Integrate entertainment features like an outdoor television, sound system, or a designated area for games.
8. Lighting:
   • Outdoor kitchen lighting is important for both functionality and ambiance. Incorporate task lighting for cooking areas and ambient lighting for the overall space.
   • Solar-powered or low-voltage LED lights are energy-efficient options for illuminating your outdoor kitchen at night.
9. Shelter and Shade:
   • Depending on your climate, consider adding an overhead structure or pergola to provide shade and protection from the elements. This enhances the comfort of your outdoor kitchen during hot or rainy days.
10. Landscaping and Aesthetics:
    • Integrate the design of your outdoor kitchen with the existing landscaping. Use plants, flowers, and hardscaping to create a cohesive and visually appealing outdoor space.
11. Local Regulations and Permits:
    • Before beginning construction, research local regulations, permits, and zoning requirements related to outdoor kitchens.
12. Budget:
    • Set a realistic budget for your outdoor kitchen project. Consider the costs of appliances, materials, construction, and any additional features you plan to include.
13. Maintenance and Upkeep:
    • Plan for regular maintenance to keep your outdoor kitchen looking and functioning its best. This includes cleaning appliances, sealing surfaces, and covering or storing equipment during harsh weather.

By considering these important factors, you can design an outdoor kitchen that not only meets your culinary needs but also becomes a focal point for entertaining and enjoying your outdoor space. If you would like to speak with a professional please contact Cleator Landscape Design at 619-917-3644

Creating a lush and vibrant lawn is a goal for many homeowners regardless if you live in North Park or La Jolla, and selecting the right type of grass is a crucial step in achieving this. Two popular options for lawns are Turf Type Tall Fescue and Bermuda Grass. Each of these grasses has unique characteristics that can influence the overall look, maintenance requirements, and suitability for different climates. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the key differences between Turf Type Tall Fescue and Bermuda Grass to help you make an informed decision for your lawn.

1. Growth Habits and Appearance

Turf Type Tall Fescue: Turf Type Tall Fescue is known for its fine-textured blades that form dense clumps. It offers a more uniform and consistent appearance compared to traditional tall fescue varieties. This grass tends to have a darker green color, making it visually appealing.

Bermuda Grass: Bermuda Grass, on the other hand, features a fine texture and spreads through both above-ground runners (stolons) and below-ground stems (rhizomes). Its growth pattern creates a carpet-like effect, establishing a dense and even surface.

2. Maintenance Requirements

Turf Type Tall Fescue: Turf Type Tall Fescue is relatively low-maintenance compared to some other grass types. It is known for its moderate growth rate, which means less frequent mowing. It also has good shade tolerance compared to other warm-season grasses, making it suitable for lawns with varying sun exposure.

Bermuda Grass: Bermuda Grass is more demanding in terms of maintenance. It has a vigorous growth rate and requires regular mowing to keep it at an optimal height. Due to its spreading nature, Bermuda Grass is often more invasive and requires proper edging to prevent it from encroaching into flower beds and other areas.

3. Climate Suitability

Turf Type Tall Fescue: Turf Type Tall Fescue is a cool-season grass that thrives in regions with moderate temperatures. It can withstand colder winters and can remain green throughout the year in temperate climates. It is also more adaptable to areas with partial shade, making it a great option for lawns with varying light conditions.

Bermuda Grass: Bermuda Grass is a warm-season grass that excels in hot and sunny climates. It has excellent heat tolerance and can withstand drought conditions better than Turf Type Tall Fescue. However, it goes dormant and turns brown during colder months, which can be less visually appealing during the winter.

4. Drought and Heat Tolerance

Turf Type Tall Fescue: While not as drought-tolerant as Bermuda Grass, Turf Type Tall Fescue has better drought resistance compared to other cool-season grasses. It can survive temporary dry spells, but extended periods of heat and drought may stress the grass and require supplemental irrigation.

Bermuda Grass: Bermuda Grass is renowned for its exceptional heat and drought tolerance. Its deep root system allows it to access water from lower soil levels, making it well-suited for regions with limited water availability.

Conclusion

In the end, choosing between Turf Type Tall Fescue and Bermuda Grass boils down to your specific lawn needs and the climate of your region. If you’re looking for a lower-maintenance grass with good shade tolerance, Turf Type Tall Fescue might be the right choice. On the other hand, if you live in a warm and sunny climate and prioritize drought resistance and a vibrant green lawn during the growing season, Bermuda Grass could be the better option.

Before making a decision, consider factors such as your local climate, the amount of sunlight your lawn receives, your willingness to invest time in maintenance, and your aesthetic preferences. Whichever grass you choose, proper care and maintenance practices will help you create a beautiful and inviting lawn that enhances the overall appeal of your landscape.

If you need any landscape design assistance please don’t hesitate to contact Cleator Landscape Design at 619-917-3644

Most clients are on the hunt for a small flowering tree while considering a new landscape design. We are all aware of Crape Myrtles, Evergreen Pears and Yellow Bells. While there is nothing wrong with these trees there is another one that I would like to introduce to you today.

The Cape Chestnut Calodendrum capense is a beautiful soft pink flowering tree that loves to be planted in neighborhoods such as Point Loma, La Jolla or even slightly more inland areas. Hailing from coast of South Africa up into Tanzania this tree can will be happy when planted in loam soil without intense winds. This tree will typically grow to about 20’ish feet tall with a slightly more wider spread here in San Diego. It does love full sun and some irrigation during expended periods of heat in the summer.

This tree will add some nice shade and a slight fragrance while demanding very little from the homeowner. If you are looking for a nice sized tree but what something a bit different I would highly recommend you consider the Cape Chestnut tree.

If you are in need of any landscape design services please feel free to call Cleator Landscape Design at 619-917-3644 to schedule a meeting as we would love to assist you.

We all love Agaves for the bold forms, low water use and hardiness they bring to the landscape. It doesn’t matter if your garden is in La Jolla or North Park, the Agave Snout Weevil can and effect the health of your plants. However we need to be on the look out for the Agave Snout Weevil which can decimate your Agave right before your eyes.

When your Agave is under stress from the Agave Snout Weevil you will see signs of deformed overall shape, soft or weak leaves on the tissue, small bore holes, and general lack of plant vigor. When you suspect you have a Agave Snout Weevil infestation you need to soak the soil around the base of the plant with an ornamental insecticide. Hopefully is the Agave hasn’t been too badly damage it may recover and regrow new roots.

To prevent Agave Snout Weevil we recommend treating all your Agave once in the spring and then again in the fall. This should help to protect your Agaves from the Agave Snout Weevil.

If you are in need of a landscape design please contact Cleator Landscape Design at 619-9174-3644

Hello and welcome back to our blog post. I know in this heat gardening isn’t something that we are all to keen to get into but its vital we care for our gardens during times of stress. I wanted to give a few tips on how we can help reduce the stress to our landscapes during challenging times regardless if you are fortunate to live in Point Loma and are enjoying the slightly cooler temps or in Del Cerro where the temperature is much warmer.

For larger areas of the garden look to replace your older irrigation heads with ones that rotate such as Mp Rotators as the can reduce your water usage by up to 20 percent while improving coverage.

Adjust your irrigation, often longer but less frequent cycles help plants grow deeper roots which helps during drought stress.

If your lawn is beyond repair consider replacing it with low water use ground covers or if you must have a lawn take a look at UC Verde buffalo grass. This winter dormant fairly low growing grass will only use a quarter of the water a standard lawn would.

Trees need deep monthly waters during times of excessive heat. Water the trees from the trunk out to the drip line and let them dry out between. Adding mulch helps to hold in moisture while adding nutrients to the soil and suppressing weeds.

If you have a landscape design project please feel free to call Cleator Landscape Design at 619-917-3644 for to speak with our staff about transforming your landscape into something more drought tolerant.

I know that’s an odd way to start talking about soil health but hear me out. Our soils tend to be pretty poor and often lack enough Mycorrhiza to be beneficial to your plants. So we need to boost the levels of these beneficial fungi to aid in root development especially in new housing developments where the soil has been demolished. 

So why would you want to add Mycorrhiza and how do you incorporate them back into your soil. Mycorrhiza work by creating a symbiotic relationship between fungi and plant roots. This vast network of spores in the soil greatly enhances surface area of the roots which in turn results in improved nutrient acquisition and uptake by the plants. It also aids in reduced need for fertilizers, improved resistance to wilt, root rot and salt toxicity among a host of other beneficial side effects. The best way to get them into your soil is to incorporate Mycorrhizae into your backfill or directly applied to the roots of the planting. Direct root contact is essential for the best results, as it holds the best odds for colonization and success. I would also recommend adding a bit to the root ball itself during planting for that extra boost. For established gardens you can add Mycorrhiza to the drip line cover well with mulch. Mycorrhizae cannot survive when exposed to sunlight.

No matter if you leave in Point Loma or South Park adding Mycorrhiza to your garden will be an easy task with huge benefits so don’t wait and add some of these fungi today. 

If you have any additional questions or are interested in a landscape design please don’t hesitate to contract Cleator Landscape Design at 619 917 3644

When it comes to how to properly irrigate your landscape in San Diego it comes down to a few factors based on where you live such as Point Loma faces different challenges than Kensington. Today I wanted to discuss different in ground irrigation systems, hopefully in future post we can discuss the other factors that contribute to an overall effective irrigation system. 

In ground irrigation systems are the most common system for both new and existing landscape. They have many built in benefits such as the ability to be programmable, they can even be tied into the internet and receive relevant weather information and self adjust how much and how often water is applied. This also allows for a wide range of heads to be incorporated into one system, so you could have drip, pops ups, soakers and bubblers all on one system with only different zones separating them. In ground system have the aesthetic benefit of being hidden thus keeping the landscape tidy, however when they need repairs digging is typically required. 

A major part of modern in ground systems are drip systems. Drip lines emitters come in a wide array of GPH or gallons per hour allowing you to highly customize how much water is provided. When discussing drip systems the only brand to consider in my opinion is Netafim. They are an agriculture based product that is far superior to anything else on the market. The other common system for in ground systems would be pops up. Today we have a number of different choices from HE-VANS which allows for greater control of how far and wide the water is distributed to MP ROTATORS for large coverage areas to even products like Irrigreen that will deliver water to only a predetermined area limiting overspray. 

In ground irrigation systems might not be a “sexy” topic, but they are essential and with all the modern additions to the market they can be so highly customized that installing any type of landscape without one is foolish. If you would like to know more about irrigation systems please call Cleator Landscape Design at 619 917 3644.

In the last post we talked about how to reduce the stress your plants face during a heatwave. However today I wanted to quickly touch on how to design a landscape for a warming climate. As we all know the climate is heating up and along with that comes rainfall uncertainty, so how does one have a beautiful garden is an ever-changing world. It does not matter if your property is in La Jolla or South Park it’s prudent to consider how the landscape will respond in a hotter than typically environment. 

When designing a landscape here in San Diego I always recommend a client take into considerations the sites microclimate. This is a good starting off point to figuring our what types of plants can potentially grow where. Along with that it’s vital to consider water use, with limited water becoming available as well as the ever risen cost of said water it’s important to use it wisely. It’s also critical to capture any rainfall we do receive as this can be a great resource during the hot dry summer months. 

Another factor to consider when designing a landscape is how best to use shade in your garden. This can reduce evaporation and cool your home thus reducing cooling cost. A beautiful shade tree not only looks amazing it can greatly affect how the outdoor space is used during the hotter times of the year. Along with shade it’s essential to consider how different hardscape elements respond to wild swings in temperature. Some hardscape products especially synthetic can heat up to a point that they become unusable. 

These tips along with selecting plants that can handle the warmer climate is a good starting point when considering how to design a landscape here in San Diego. If you would like to learn more please contact Cleator Landscape Design at 619-917-3644