FAQ
Commercial landscaping FAQ — answers from our field notes
The questions below come straight from property managers and the seasonal columns our team has published since 2000. If your question is not here, contact us — we would rather answer it directly than guess.
Why do patches of my turf yellow and die during summer heat?
Those are “hot spots”: areas receiving less irrigation than the rest of the turf, often aggravated by berms that drain downhill, slope exposure or tired soil. We correct them by balancing irrigation coverage zone by zone and reprogramming controllers with repeat cycles; severe cases may also get a gypsum application to improve soil structure. See our summer column.
Can seasonal color survive a sustained 95 °F heat wave?
Often not — seasonal color is the most perishable part of a landscape, and sustained heat above 95 °F can scorch it even when moisture is optimum. That is why our contracts treat it as an “act of God”, and why we have never had to invoke that clause: careful plant selection and placement get ahead of it. Read the details in our summer column.
How do you control giant whitefly on hibiscus?
Giant whitefly is larger than common whitefly and covers foliage in a sticky, web-like substance. We rotate a combination of chemical controls to keep them effective, and can virtually eradicate them in some cases. Early detection and continual treatment are the keys. See pest & disease control.
What is lerp psyllid and which trees does it attack?
Lerp psyllid is a pest new to the region that infests mainly Blue Gum eucalyptus (also Silver Dollar, Flooded Gum and Red Gum), causing massive defoliation and honeydew staining. Treatment options range from contact sprays to trunk injection with a systemic like Merit — most effective when applied in March–April. Details in our spring column.
Why do leaves yellow after heavy rain?
Saturated clay soils go anaerobic, so roots cannot take up nutrients — the plant becomes chlorotic (yellow). It is usually temporary: once the soil dries and root-zone temperatures rise, plants green up and grow vigorously. Poorly drained low areas take longer to recover.
Why water deeply in winter — doesn’t the rain handle it?
A good soaking season leaches accumulated salts out of the root zone — especially important on properties irrigated with reclaimed water, which carries more salts and chlorine than domestic water. Indoors, catch rainwater for your houseplants, which never get that flush.
When is the best time to renovate turf?
Autumn. It is the one time of year we can effectively eradicate the toughest unwanted grasses, and the season’s cooler weather lets new seed germinate and establish. See our autumn notes.
When should trees be trimmed — and what about storms?
Fall, ahead of the Santa Ana wind season. Our supervisors carry chain saws and guy-and-stake equipment during wind season so storm-fallen trees are handled first thing in the morning. The venturi effect between mid-rise buildings can double wind speed, so exposed properties get priority. See arbor services.
Do you maintain interior plants as well?
Yes — interior landscape design and maintenance is one of our services, from selection and installation to scheduled care and replacement. See design & installation.
Which areas do you serve?
Orange County (our home market since 1988), the 101 corridor from the Warner Center to Ventura County (Agoura Hills branch), LA and Ventura counties, and San Diego County (Sorrento Valley branch). Full details on our service areas page.
Have a question about your own landscape?
Rich Wingard and the team answer client questions directly — ask yours.