Author: Petalon Landscape

The health of your trees may not always make it to the top of your to-do list, but waiting until trouble strikes can expose your gentle giants to risks that you wish you had identified sooner. In this guide, the experts at Petalon Landscape Management explain the importance of routine commercial tree inspections, outline what to expect during the process, and describe the warning signs to look out for between assessments.

Top 3 Reasons to Schedule Regular Tree Inspections

In their humble beauty and majesty, trees can develop problems that are easily missed by an untrained eye. Over time, tree issues such as structural weakness, disease, and pest infestations can put your property and its visitors at risk. Here are the main reasons why commercial properties need routine tree inspections:

1. Prevent property damage: Diseased trees and weak limbs are hazards that can damage buildings, vehicles, and hardscapes. Even if your trees look healthy, they might be only one big storm away from damaging your property.

• Reduce injury liability: As a commercial property owner, you are responsible for keeping shared spaces safe. If a tree or branch falls and injures someone, you may be liable for damages.

• Avoid emergency removals: Emergency tree care services are often much more expensive than regular maintenance. Routine tree inspections will help you catch problems early and give you the chance to address them.

What to Expect During a Tree Inspection

When you schedule a tree assessment for your commercial property, an experienced arborist will walk your property and inspect the health and condition of each tree. Our tree care team will identify signs of deterioration, such as:

• Weak limbs: We monitor your trees for branches that are cracked, broken, or showing signs of decline. If we find any, we will recommend pruning strategies and ways to encourage healthy growth.

• Disease and pests: Symptoms such as leaf discoloration, fungal growth on bark, or visible insects will go into the assessment report. If any signs of disease or pest infestation are present, we will suggest treatment methods.

• Root damage: Each tree’s trunk and the surrounding ground is inspected for signs of root rot, compacted soil, mushrooms, or trauma. If we find anything concerning, our team will recommend soil amendments, improved drainage, or specialized treatments to address these issues.

Things to Look Out for Between Tree Assessments

Even with regular inspections, tree health can decline unexpectedly. If you notice any of the following issues, contact your landscape maintenance team for an emergency assessment:

• Dead or hanging branches: Branches that look dry, brittle, or remain leafless during the growing season may be dying and should be professionally removed.

• Unusual leaf loss or discoloration: Leaves turning brown, yellow, or falling off prematurely can be signs of disease or pest activity.

• Cracks or splits: Deep cracks in the trunk or limbs can be signs of structural weakness and increase the likelihood of breakage.

• Leaning: Trees that have developed a sudden lean or raised base have an increased risk of falling.

• Mushrooms or fungi: Fungal growth around the base or roots can indicate internal decay.

• Insect activity: Holes in the bark, piles of sawdust-like material, or damaged leaves can all be signs of pest problems.

Commercial Tree Inspection Experts in the Bay Area

Are you looking for a reliable partner to assess your property’s trees and landscape health? Turn to Petalon Landscape Management. For over twenty years, we have been the experts Bay Area businesses trust for expert tree care, thorough inspections, and cost-effective landscape solutions.

Explore our landscape management services to see what we can do for your business:

• Tree inspections

• Trimming and pruning

• Seasonal tree maintenance

• Pest control

• Tree removal

• Stump removal

• Smart irrigation systems

Call 408-453-3998 to book your commercial property’s routine tree inspections with Petalon Landscape Management. We are the Bay Area’s top choice for full-service landscape management solutions. Have questions about our arbor care services? Contact us online

Keeping landscapes green in the Bay Area isn’t easy. Between rising water costs and drought regulations, it can feel like you’re always one step behind. But what if managing your property’s irrigation needs could be hassle-free? In this guide, we’ll explore how Petalon’s smart irrigation management can help you lower utility costs, reduce water waste, and stay ahead of California’s drought regulations.

What is Smart Irrigation?

Smart irrigation systems use technology to control how and when your property is watered. Instead of traditional methods that rely on set timers and manual adjustments, smart irrigation management practices in the Bay Area rely on sensors and real-time weather updates to determine the best watering times and amounts. This means your grass, plants, and trees get just the right amount of water, at exactly the right time, in every season.

Bay Area Smart Irrigation Installation, Management, and Repair

Petalon is your all-in-one solution for smart irrigation management in the Bay Area. Our team offers prompt installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial irrigation systems, alongside expert recommendations that can help improve the efficiency of your existing setup.

Here is what we can do for your business:

• Smart irrigation installation: We design custom smart irrigation systems using high-quality components and industry leading controllers.

• Sensor integration: We install soil moisture, weather, and flow sensors that reduce overwatering and runoff.
• System setup: Our team configures controllers, zones, and sensors to accommodate your plant, sun, and soil conditions.

• Calibration: We fine-tune existing sensors and controllers to accommodate new plantings and landscaping goals.

• Inspections and leak checks: We perform routine inspections of your system to check for leaks, faulty sprinkler heads, and sensor issues.

• System repairs and upgrades: We promptly repair broken components and can retrofit replacements to improve system performance and efficiency.

• Compliance support: We analyze your existing irrigation system to ensure it meets all local water use regulations and environmental standards.

How We Help Your Business Comply with California Drought Regulations

Water is one of the Bay Area’s most precious resources, and ongoing droughts have led to some of the strictest water regulations in the country. Our smart irrigation systems make it easier for your business to comply with these requirements by helping you:

• Avoid overwatering during drought alerts and watering bans

• Automatically adapt watering schedules to meet weather, soil, or regulatory conditions

• Receive alerts about leaks and system inefficiencies before they lead to non-compliance

• Track and document water usage for easy reporting and audits

• Reduce manual oversight and risks of human error

Reach Out to the Bay Area’s Trusted Smart Irrigation Management Team

Looking for a smarter, more sustainable way to improve plant health, cut irrigation costs, and comply with California’s water restrictions? Turn to Petalon Landscape Management. We have been designing, installing, and maintaining smart irrigation systems for Bay Area businesses, HOAs, and municipalities for over two decades.

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

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: 

• Installation of drought-tolerant landscapes, trees, and lawn alternatives

• Seasonal tree care and preventive maintenance

• Integrated pest management

• Smart irrigation controller installation

• Irrigation installation, maintenance, and repairs

• Drainage installation, maintenance, and repairs

• Seasonal planting services

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

• Hire a tree maintenance company: Regular care from a professional tree maintenance company can help you detect early signs of overwatering and improve the health of your trees.

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.

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.