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Author: Petalon Landscape

Shade Structures and Trees That Thrive in the Bay Area

Beautiful and Sustainable Ways to Shade Your Commercial Property

The Bay Area’s unique weather can turn outdoor spaces from comfortably cool to surprisingly hot, sometimes within the space of a few hours. For property managers and business owners, this creates a unique challenge. How do you keep your patios, plazas, and green spaces comfortable for guests, clients, and visitors? In this blog post, we explore shade structures and native trees that thrive in the Bay Area and make your commercial landscapes more functional and visually appealing.

Shade Structures: Pergolas, Gazebos, and Louvered Patio Covers  

If you’re looking for instant relief from the sun, shade structures are the easiest and quickest solution. Let’s look at the common types of shade structures and ways you can install them on your commercial landscape:

  • Pergolas: With their signature slatted roofs, pergolas provide a pleasant shade while keeping areas open and breezy. These structures can be designed to complement a range of property styles, from Mediterranean to modern.
    • Popular uses: Pergolas are commonly used by businesses to improve the ambiance of outdoor dining areas, seating areas, gardens, and more.
  • Gazebos: These structures provide full overhead shade and can be a stunning focal point for any outdoor space. They can be built with hardwood for a timeless look or modern materials for low-maintenance upkeep.
    • Popular uses: Gazebos are great for shading large areas of courtyards, parks, and patios. They are also a useful fixture for hosting events, weddings, or outdoor grilling areas.
  • Louvered patio covers: Louvered patio covers feature adjustable slats that let you control the exact amount of sunlight and airflow in your outdoor space. With the push of a button, the louvers can be tilted open to let in light or closed tightly for full shade and rain protection.
    • Popular uses: Louvered patio covers are great for transforming patios, terraces, or rooftop lounges into flexible spaces. Their adjustable design makes them perfect for businesses that want to accommodate guest preferences throughout the day.

Shade Trees: Drought-Tolerant Tree Species for Bay Area Properties

Looking for a natural way to keep your green spaces cool and comfortable? At Petalon, we’ll help you plant drought-tolerant shade trees that require minimal upkeep. Let’s explore some shade trees that thrive in Bay Area landscapes:

  • California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa): A fast-growing native species that can reach up to 80 feet tall, the California Sycamore provides broad, dense shade, making it ideal for large open spaces.
  • Crape Myrtle (Lagerstroemia): Perfect for shading smaller spaces and walkways, Crape Myrtle grows 15–25 feet tall and provides filtered shade. This species is known for its vibrant summer blooms in shades of pink, purple, red, or white.
  • Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia):Known for its stunning lavender-purple blooms, the Jacaranda reaches 25–50 feet and develops a spreading canopy that provides dappled shade. Once established, it thrives with minimal water.
  • Magnolia (Magnolia spp.): Magnolias grow 20–80 feet tall (depending on the variety) and provide generous shade with their dense, glossy leaves. This species also features fragrant blooms in white or pink.
  • Coast Live Oak (Quercus agrifolia): A tree native to the Bay Area, the Coast Live Oak grows 30–70 feet tall and has a broad canopy that can shade larger spaces. This species is drought-tolerant and is a natural habitat for local wildlife, making it an eco-friendly choice.
  • Red Maple (Acer rubrum): This tree can reach 40–60 feet and display brilliant red or orange foliage in fall. While they prefer moist soil, they adapt well to drier conditions once established.

Drought-Tolerant Landscaping and Arbor Care

Planting drought-tolerant trees is a smart way to boost your property value and save water, but it requires knowledge and experience to keep them healthy. That’s where Petalon comes in. We don’t just plant your trees and walk away! We provide the ongoing tree care needed to ensure strong roots, lush canopies, and beautiful landscapes.

Explore our drought-tolerant landscaping and arbor care services: 

  • Seasonal tree care and preventive maintenance

The Bay Area’s Experts in Commercial Shade Structures and Shade Tree Installation

Looking to add more shade and style to your property’s green spaces? You’ve come to the right place. Since 2001, Petalon has helped Bay Area businesses, HOAs, municipalities, and developers create stunning landscapes with drought-tolerant plant installations, expert arbor care services, and custom shade structure designs.

Call Petalon today at 408-453-3998 to book your consultation with our shade structure and tree care team in the Bay Area. Looking for more shade ideas? Contact us online

Petalon Landscape Management proudly serves businesses in San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Redwood City, Palo Alto, Dublin, Hayward, Foster City, Fremont, and Livermore.

How to Choose the Right Commercial Landscape Maintenance Partner in the Bay Area

Tired of working with crews who miss appointments, rush through jobs, and treat your property like just another task on their to-do list? It’s time to find a commercial landscape maintenance company that values your Bay Area business. In this blog post, we’ll explore what sets a great landscaping partner apart and how to select a team that can improve the health, appearance, and sustainability of your property.

Why is Landscape Maintenance Important for Your Bay Area Commercial Property?

Well maintained green spaces do more than create a positive impression; they help improve your reputation, increase property values, and reduce safety hazards. This is why it’s important to partner with a commercial landscape maintenance company that has depth of experience, a range of services, flexible operations, and highly rated customer reviews.

Let’s consider the key qualities and services that separate a great partner from the rest:

Local Experience in Commercial Landscaping

The Bay Area isn’t like anywhere else; our weather can shift from foggy to sunny in one afternoon, and soil types range from heavy clay to sandy loam. Look for a team that understands these local conditions and has a proven track record in your region. Ask if they have experience managing properties similar to yours, and whether they can suggest drought-tolerant landscaping ideas that will reduce your maintenance costs.

Full-Service Solutions

Do you really want to juggle multiple companies for mowing, irrigation, and tree care? Probably not! That’s why it makes sense to partner with a landscaping company that offers full-service capabilities. Look for a provider that can handle everything from lawn maintenance to pest management and drainage repairs, all under one roof.

Flexible Maintenance Packages

Stretch your landscaping dollars further by choosing a partner that offers flexible service options. The right company will work to accommodate your budget and your schedule, creating plans that provide only the services you actually need, whether that’s routine tree care, drainage maintenance, or seasonal planting services. Don’t hesitate to ask for a detailed estimate, and see if they can bundle services to keep costs low.

Irrigation Installation and Maintenance

A qualified commercial landscape company should be able to help you cut irrigation costs by installing smart controllers, drip systems, and rain or soil moisture sensors. Be sure to ask if they also handle regular maintenance and repairs, so you’re not left scrambling if you experience breakdowns or leaks.

Reliable Communication and Service

It should be easy to get in touch with your commercial landscapers when you need them. Choose a team that assigns your business a dedicated project manager who responds promptly to your questions and keeps you in the loop about ongoing work. With a single point of contact, it’s easy to address schedule changes or special requests as they come up.

The Benefits of Choosing Petalon for Commercial Landscape Maintenance in the Bay Area

At Petalon, we partner with Bay Area businesses, homeowners’ associations (HOAs), and municipalities to create and maintain beautiful outdoor spaces. Our commercial landscape maintenance team is ready to work with you to develop a customized care plan that meets your aesthetic needs, sustainability goals, and budget.

When you partner with us, your business benefits from our:

  • Extensive local experience: With over two decades of experience serving the Bay Area, we have successfully managed properties in San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Redwood City, Palo Alto, Dublin, Hayward, Foster City, Fremont, and Livermore.
  • Full-service solutions: From seasonal tree care to smart irrigation installations, our team handles all aspects of landscape maintenance, so you don’t have to hire multiple vendors.
  • Customizable service options: We tailor our services to fit your budget and goals, offering flexible maintenance plans that provide great value.
  • Commitment to sustainability: We implement water-saving strategies and drought-tolerant installations that reduce maintenance costs and minimize your organization’s environmental impact.
  • Reliable communication: We assign a project manager who will act as your single point of contact, so you always have a reliable way to address your concerns, handle emergencies, and stay informed about the status of your property.

Call Petalon today at 408-453-3998 to book your consultation with our commercial landscape maintenance experts in the Bay Area. Have a question about our services? Contact us online

Petalon provides award-winning commercial landscape management services to commercial properties in San Jose, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Redwood City, Palo Alto, Dublin, Hayward, Foster City, Fremont, and Livermore.

Pest Control Ideas for Spring and Summer

Top Tips from the Bay Area’s Integrated Pest Management Experts

As the vibrant greens of spring and summer return, so does the activity of pests in your landscape. From gnawed tree bark to shredded greenery, these intruders can quickly turn a well-maintained green space into an unsightly scene. If you’re noticing signs of damage, such as missing leaves, disturbed soil, or unwanted critters, it’s likely your landscape is under attack.

At Petalon Landscape Management, we understand that a pristine commercial landscape is essential for creating a professional and inviting atmosphere. To help you stay ahead of destructive pests, our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) experts share their top pest control ideas that can protect your landscape this spring – and every season after.

Professional Pest Control Ideas – How to Spot Common Pests 

Pests come in all shapes and sizes – from tiny sap-sucking insects to larger, furry critters. Here’s how to identify and tackle some of the most common troublemakers.

Aphids

Aphids are tiny insects that cluster on leaves, stems, and buds, leaving behind sticky honeydew. This residue attracts ants and fosters mold growth, which can smother plants and even kill them.

How to reduce aphid populations:

  • Beneficial insects: Ladybugs and parasitic wasps are natural predators of aphids. Releasing them into your garden is an eco-friendly way to control their population.
  • Spraying with water: If you find aphids on your plants, a strong hose spray can be useful to knock them off your plants.
  • Neem oil or insecticidal soap: These treatments kill aphids on contact without leaving behind persistent toxic residues harming beneficial insects, but they must be applied correctly.
  • Targeted insecticides: For larger infestations, Petalon can apply targeted insecticides and chemical controls to eliminate aphids quickly.

Nesting Bugs

Insects like beetles, ants, and wasps often make their nests in mulch, soil, or under tree bark, which can lead to plant damage and even safety hazards. For instance, carpenter ants can weaken tree structures over time, while wasps pose a danger to people on your property.

Nesting bug prevention tips:

  • Regular inspections: Check mulch beds, tree trunks, and soil for early signs of nesting activity.
  • Leave stinging insects alone: For insects like wasps, it’s important to leave removal to the professionals. We use specialized tools and chemical controls to safely eliminate nests and prevent them from returning.
  • Disrupt nesting areas: For non-aggressive insects, turning over soil or reducing mulch in nesting areas can discourage them from settling.
  • Use natural deterrents: Diatomaceous earth and natural repellents like peppermint essential oil helps keep small populations of nesting bugs at bay.

Snails and Slugs

These slimy pests thrive in shaded, moist environments and leave holes in leaves and tender stems. This can be especially harmful to small plants and saplings. They are most active during the cooler parts of the day, such as early mornings or evenings.

Snail and slug pest control ideas:

  • Use natural barriers: Surround plants with crushed eggshells, diatomaceous earth, or copper tape to block their movement.
  • Set bait traps: Traps filled with beer or commercial snail bait can lure and trap snails and slugs.
  • Manual removal: For smaller infestations, manually removing snails and slugs during their active hours can drastically reduce their populations.
  • Additional support: For prolonged infestations, IPM experts can implement pest control strategies to protect your plants.

Squirrels

While squirrels might look harmless, their chewing and digging can create chaos across your landscape.

How to reduce squirrel activity:

  • Install protective barriers: Use netting, tree guards, or hardware cloth to shield vulnerable plants.
  • Apply deterrents: Sprinkling cayenne pepper or using commercial squirrel repellents can discourage them from settling on your property.
  • Use squirrel-proof bird feeders: If birdseed is attracting squirrels, switch to feeders designed to keep them out.
  • Humane trapping: For locations with persistent squirrel problems, Petalon can set humane traps and relocate them safely.

Raccoons, Skunks, and Rats

Raccoons, skunks, and rats are notorious for scavenging, digging holes, and damaging plants. Their presence often increases in urban areas where food and shelter are more accessible.

Rodent pest control ideas:

  • Remove attractions: Secure trash bins with tight-fitting lids, clean up fallen fruit, and remove food left outdoors.
  • Seal entry points: Inspect your property for gaps or holes where rodents may nest and seal them with hardware cloth or steel wool.
  • Humane traps: Petalon can set humane traps to safely relocate raccoons and skunks.
  • Targeted rodent control: For severe infestations, we use traps to minimize risks to non-targeted wildlife.

The Best Pest Control Idea: Partner with Petalon Landscape Management

Don’t let pests damage your commercial landscape! We’re here to help you regain control of your green spaces. Our Integrated Pest Management (IPM) services are designed to protect your trees, plants, and lawns with eco-friendly methods that work year-round.

Dealing with stubborn infestations? No problem. We can use advanced insecticides to target pests like aphids, grubs, and scale insects without harming surrounding wildlife. For larger pests, we rely on humane traps to safely remove and relocate them. Petalon is your key to a pest-free property.

Call Petalon today at 408-453-3998 to book your consultation with our integrated pest control experts. Need more pest control ideas? Contact us online

Petalon proudly serves businesses, municipalities, HOAs, and property developers in the Bay Area and surrounding communities.

Expert Advice: How to Care for Artificial Turf

Top 5 Tips for Artificial Lawn Maintenance

Unlock the secret to a beautiful lawn with Petalon Landscape Management’s guide to artificial turf care. Our specialists have spent years perfecting the art of synthetic lawn maintenance, and now we’re sharing that knowledge with you. From routine rinses to spot-cleaning strategies, we’ll show you how to care for your turf and keep it in top condition, so you can enjoy a flawless landscape with minimal effort.

Is Synthetic Turf Maintenance Difficult?

Not at all! One of the standout features of artificial turf is that it is easy to maintain. With just a few simple tools, you can keep your lawn looking its best. A leaf blower, push broom, or plastic rake will help you remove leaves and debris. For regular cleaning, a hose is all you need to clean the surface, while a power washer is perfect for tackling more stubborn stains.

5 Key Steps for Turf Care

  1. Keep your turf clear: Like natural lawns, artificial turf will collect organic debris that can trap moisture and lead to damage. Luckily, it is easy to clean up leaves and branches with a blower, broom, or plastic rake before they cause damage.
  • Give occasional rinses: Although artificial turf doesn’t need water for growth, it benefits from occasional rinsing. A simple spray from the garden hose can wash away dirt and pollen that can dull the appearance of its blades. For areas with pets, frequent rinsing can help wash away urine and prevent odors from becoming a problem.
  • Pro tip: Solid pet waste should be removed from your lawn as soon as possible. This will prevent stains and odors from harming your lawn.
  • Spot clean when necessary: Your artificial turf will encounter spills and bird droppings that can stain its surface if left unattended. Prompt spot cleaning is important in these situations. To remove stubborn stains, you can use water, a mild detergent, and a sponge to prevent them from becoming permanent. Follow this with a thorough rinse to remove any soap residue.
  • Don’t let weeds take hold: Even though artificial turf is designed to be weed-resistant; some pesky invaders may still find their way through. It is important to quickly pull weeds, so they don’t spread or become deeply rooted.
  • Pro tip: Applying a pre-emergent weed control treatment will create an invisible barrier that prevents weeds from sprouting on your turf.
  • Consult professionals when needed: You may encounter stubborn stains or worn patches that detract from your turf’s appearance. If this happens, seek professional help from trusted turf maintenance services. They can thoroughly clean these areas and, if necessary, replace damaged sections.
  • Pro tip: For tough stains like oil or paint, professionals may use specialized cleaning products that can treat the area without damaging the surrounding turf.

Keep Your Artificial Turf Looking New with Petalon Landscape Management

Maintaining a vibrant artificial lawn is simple with Petalon Landscape Management by your side. Our lawn care services are fully customizable to cater to the unique needs of your artificial turf. We also offer routine maintenance plans that are designed to keep your turf in prime condition year-round.

Not sure how to care for artificial turf? Contact Petalon Landscape Management at 408-453-3998. We provide artificial turf installation, repair, and maintenance to homeowners and businesses in Morgan Hill, San Jose, Palo Alto, and Santa Clara.

How to Prepare Your Lawn for Spring

5 Spring Landscaping Tips for Lush Lawns

Spring is just around the corner, and that means it’s the perfect time to give your yard some attention. Taking care of your lawn now will prevent pests and stubborn weeds from taking hold. Plus, it’s the first step to getting that thick, green grass that’s great for summer barbecues and backyard games. In this guide, we will show you how to prepare your lawn for spring and keep it healthy in the months ahead.

Why is Spring Lawn Care Important?

Think of spring as a wake-up call for your grass. It’s the time when it shifts from winter dormancy to active growth. Spring lawn care is important as it sets the foundation for a healthy landscape during the rest of the year. By taking the right steps as the season changes, you’re setting up your yard to handle the summer sun and all the fun outdoor activities that come with it.

How to Prepare Your Lawn for Spring in 5 Easy Steps

If you are wondering how to prepare your landscape for spring, we have some useful tips for you. Follow these steps to get your lawn spring-ready by promoting healthy new growth:

  1. Clean up: Start by clearing away any leaves, twigs, and debris that have collected over the winter. This not only tidies up your yard but also prevents pests, mold, and bacteria from establishing and harming your plants.
  2. Dethatch your lawn: Thatch is a layer of dead grass that can build up on your soil preventing water, air, and nutrients from reaching the roots of your grass. You can use a specialized dethatching rake or a powered dethatcher to remove this layer.
    • Pro tip: While springtime is a great time for lawn renewal, it is important to only work on your grass if the soil is dry. Walking on wet soil can compact the earth, making it difficult for plants to absorb water and nutrients.
  3. Remove weeds: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds from taking hold in your lawn. For existing weeds, you can use a post-emergent herbicide or remove them by pulling from the roots.
  4. Remove weeds: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds from taking hold in your lawn. For existing weeds, you can use a post-emergent herbicide or remove them by pulling from the roots.
  5. Fertilize: Spring is a good time to fertilize your landscape to promote robust growth in the coming months. Be sure to select a fertilizer that is appropriate for your species of grass.
    • Pro tip: Soil pH affects nutrient availability. Test your soil’s pH level; if it’s too acidic, amending it with lime can promote healthy root development.

Petalon is Here to Help You Prepare Your Landscape for Spring

Need help preparing your lawn for spring? Petalon Landscape Management offers top-notch lawn care services for commercial properties looking to improve the appearance of their landscapes. Our team offers maintenance plans to nurture your lawn to its most vibrant state this spring, and throughout the year.

Contact Petalon Landscape Management at 408-453-3998. We provide landscape maintenance, fertilization, and lawn care services that keep your commercial landscape healthy and attractive year-round.

Can My Trees Get Too Much Rain?

Protect Your Trees from Overwatering with This Guide

Rain is vital for tree growth and health. However, too much rain can be damaging for your green friends. Prolonged or intense rainfall can lead to problems that may stunt a tree’s growth, damage their root systems, make them physically unstable, and create environments that welcome pests and diseases. “Can my trees get too much rain?” If this is a question weighing on your mind, keep reading.

How Much Rain is Too Much?

This question can be hard to answer because trees have varying water requirements based on their biological makeup. For instance, oak trees have deep root systems that make them resistant to overwatering, compared to maple varieties that have shallow roots and require well-drained soil to thrive.

The good news is that a few days of rainfall typically won’t be a problem. However, issues may arise when soil becomes waterlogged, eliminating air pockets that are needed to provide oxygen to tree roots.

  • Pro tip: Consulting a certified arborist can help you determine irrigation needs for your trees and whether you have enough drainage to safeguard against heavy rainfall.

Why is Waterlogged Soil Harmful for Trees?

Tree roots submerged for extended periods lack oxygen and become susceptible to root rot, which impairs their ability to absorb essential nutrients. Additionally, roots weakened by excessive water are less effective at anchoring the tree, increasing the risk of uprooting during heavy winds. This can create a dangerous situation for nearby structures and people.

  • Pro tip: Signs of an overwatered tree include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and an overall decline in health.

What Can I Do to Protect My Trees After Heavy Rain?

Maintaining tree health requires balanced watering practices, especially in areas experiencing heavy rainfall. To safeguard your trees from overwatering, consider the following strategies:

  • Avoid irrigating after rain: Before watering or fertilizing, use a moisture meter to check if the soil is dry.
  • Pro tip: A smart irrigation controller will automatically adjust watering schedules based on soil moisture levels and inclement weather conditions.
  • Consult an arborist: A certified arborist can assess your tree species and soil conditions to develop a safe irrigation schedule.
  • Improve drainage: Installing a custom drainage system can help protect your trees from rot by preventing water from gathering around their roots.

Need help protecting your trees from too much rain? Contact Petalon Landscape Management at 408-453-3998. We provide tree maintenance and drainage installation services to keep your commercial landscape attractive and safe.

An Overview of California’s New Law on Artificial Grass

In recent years, property owners in drought-stricken areas have turned to artificial lawns as a low maintenance alternative to natural grass. However, new legislation in California is allowing jurisdictions to ban the use of some artificial turf surfaces due to the growing health concerns about forever chemicals. Our lawncare team at Petalon Landscape Management urges property owners and managers to be aware of the new law banning artificial grass in California.

Navigating California’s Legal Landscape for Artificial Grass

It’s important to note that this new California law doesn’t outright ban artificial grass, but it grants cities and municipalities the authority to limit their use. Millbrae and San Marino have already implemented bans on fake grass installations, possibly paving the way for other municipalities to follow suit. However, you can consider lawn replacements and other landscaping techniques that offer low-maintenance beauty without the risk of environmental harm:

  • Eco-friendly artificial grass: Manufacturers are introducing non-toxic infills like sand or cork that replace synthetic crumb rubber in their artificial grass. These materials offer the benefits of artificial turf without the use of harmful chemicals.
  • Before choosing a product, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the local laws and restrictions for artificial grass in your area. This ensures that you are in compliance with the specific guidelines set by your locality.
  • Hardscaping: Decorative stone pathways surrounded by native shrubs, perennials, and wildflowers create natural spaces without the need for regular irrigation.
  • Native trees: Native trees thrive in the local climate and can provide beautiful shady areas for commercial properties. Explore these low maintenance tree species in California.
  • Drought-tolerant grass varieties: Buffalo grass and Bermuda grass require less water than traditional lawns and can thrive with smart irrigation control systems.

Why Are Some Artificial Grass Surfaces Banned?

Numerous studies link long-term exposure to PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) and other chemicals like BPA and PFOA to serious health issues such as cancer and developmental delays in children. Unfortunately, until recently, most manufacturers used to rely on these materials to mimic the look and feel of traditional grass.

To address these concerns, California’s new law requires property owners to adhere to specific guidelines when installing artificial grass on their properties. You can take proactive steps to navigate these new regulations effectively:

  • Research your options: When considering artificial grass for your property, look for turf products that meet California’s standards for safety and recyclability. Many manufacturers are now making artificial turf that does not contain harmful forever chemicals.
  • Consult local authorities: Reach out to local authorities or municipal offices to understand specific regulations in your area. Rules may vary between regions, so staying informed is essential to creating a landscape that is both beautiful, safe, and compliant with the new law banning specific types of artificial grass in California.

  • Expert installation: Hiring an experienced landscape management company can help you find eco-friendly solutions for drought-tolerant landscaping. We can help you choose compliant products and ensure that your artificial grass installation meets legal standards.

Enhance your Bay Area commercial landscape with artificial grass and drought-tolerant lawn alternatives that comply with the latest legislation. Call Petalon today at 408-453-3998 or contact us online for artificial grass installation.

Key Insights: The Real Cost of a Natural Lawn vs. Artificial Turf

When to Install Residential or Commercial Synthetic Turf

Look beyond the initial installation cost of artificial turf versus natural grass if you want a comprehensive cost comparison. It’s important to factor in the utility, equipment, and maintenance expenses of a natural lawn before you make a final decision. Synthetic turf lasts longer and maintains its original beauty with little care required. It often makes sense to install it in high traffic areas on your residential or commercial property.

Petalon Landscape Management, Inc. offers expert installation of artificial turf in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto. Our lawn care team is available to answer your questions about the real cost of a natural lawn versus artificial turf.

How Much Does a Natural Lawn Cost?

Remember that natural grass requires constant care and maintenance. You’ll need to invest in a lawn mower, trimmer, and other equipment to keep it tidy and neat. Here’s a closer look at the various expenses associated with planting and sustaining a natural lawn:

  • Installation and maintenance costs: You’ll need to buy grass seed, fertilizer, weedkiller, and pesticides, which can cost around $1,000 every year, depending on the size of your lawn.
  • Water and gas/electricity: Watering your lawn may cost around $200 a month, again, depending on the size of your property and the efficiency of your irrigation system. You’ll need to power your gas or electric lawn equipment too, and that can cost another $100 or more.
  • Equipment costs: After you install artificial turf, you don’t have to mow or trim it. Large riding mowers and other equipment can cost thousands of dollars. It may be cheaper to invest in landscape maintenance services if you choose to install natural grass. Don’t forget that you’ll need rakes, hoes, and other equipment if you decide to handle lawn care on your own.

How Does the Cost of Artificial Turf Compare?

Artificial turf typically costs more to install than a natural lawn. However, there are many advantages for property owners looking to save money on lawn care. Here are just a few of the ways you’ll save money with synthetic turf:

  • No need to mow or trim artificial turf
  • You won’t have to fertilize or reseed your grass every year
  • It’s easy to hose down your artificial turf to keep it clean and beautiful
  • You won’t need an irrigation system or thousands of gallons of water to keep your lawn green and lush
  • You also won’t need lawn mowers and other equipment, which can be expensive to store and maintain

Why Should You Install Artificial Turf Instead of a Natural Lawn?

There are many good reasons for installing artificial turf in a commercial or residential property. It’s a great alternative to natural grass when it comes to children’s play areas and dog runs, and you can also use artificial turf for backyard sports fields and putting greens. If you want to maintain a flawless front lawn, incorporate artificial turf into your landscaping design.  

Commercial synthetic turf provides flexible flooring and surface options for property managers and owners too. Whether you want to create an indoor oasis, durable sports field, or unique indoor-outdoor space, we can help you choose the right artificial turf for your needs.

Contact us today to discuss the real cost of a natural lawn vs. artificial turf.Call Petalon at 408-453-3998 for synthetic turf installation and maintenance in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto.

Pro Tips to Preserve Artificial Turf During Colder Months

Protect and Maintain Your Synthetic Grass this Winter

Artificial turf can last up to 15 years when properly cared for. It also holds up well under harsh weather conditions such as frigid winter temperatures. Additionally, artificial turf stays green year round. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to safeguard your synthetic lawn, ensuring that it will remain clean and beautiful in every season. Our team has put together a few tips to help you care for artificial turf during colder months.

Petalon Landscape Management, Inc. installs artificial turf in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto.

How Can You Safeguard Your Artificial Turf in Cold Weather?

Start by gathering the tools you’ll need to safely clear away fallen debris without damaging the blades or base of your synthetic grass. Start by inspecting the nails you used to secure your lawn. Replace any missing or damaged nails or other fasteners. Next, gather the tools you’ll need to maintain your yard safely, including:

  • Soft broom
  • Plastic shovel (don’t use metal shovels on artificial turf)
  • Hose and gentle cleaner
  • Leaf blower with slower speeds

Artificial Grass Winter Maintenance Tips

Do you want to enjoy a pristine, green lawn through the winter and into next spring? Follow these tips for artificial turf during colder months:

  1. Remove debris and litter. Clean up leaves, twigs, branches, and other debris before the mercury drops. That way, you won’t have to worry about stains and damage caused by the occasional frost or a dusting of snow.
  2. Tidy the turf. Next, hose down your artificial lawn. Removing dirt and grime regularly can prevent buildup and damage. For best results, use a mild detergent on spills and stains. If you have kids or pets that regularly use the lawn, you’ll want to do this at least once a month.
  3. Revive the grass blades. Using a broom with soft bristles, you can fluff up flattened blades. This maintenance step can produce a fresh-looking lawn you can enjoy in the springtime.
  4. Mind your step. If possible, avoid overuse of your lawn if the temperatures fall below freezing. Cold weather can make the blades brittle, causing them to break off when you step on them.
  5. Don’t use a metal shovel. Plastic shovels are much gentler on your artificial lawn than metal ones. For light dustings of snow, consider allowing the snow to melt on its own.

Contact us today for more tips for artificial turf during colder months.Call Petalon at 408-453-3998 to get a free quote for synthetic turf installation or replacement in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto.