Beautify a Business Landscape

        Beautify a Business Landscape – by Jenn Stumer, Appalachian Creations, Inc.

           Someone recently asked me for some tips on how to beautify a business landscape for maximum effect.  A business’s landscape can be perceived as a reflection of the business itself.   First impressions are key and the first thing people see is the exterior of a business. 

          One of the first things to do is evaluate the landscape.  Is there outdated and overgrown plant material?  Do the plants present year-round interest?  Are the plants healthy and performing to their potential?  Are they lacking proper maintenance?  If the answer is yes to any of these questions then perhaps the landscape is ready for some attention. 

          Start by removing trees or shrubs that have outlasted their stay or just aren’t working anymore.  Redesign using contemporary landscape techniques and mixing different textured evergreens with flowering deciduous plants.  Intersperse hardy perennials and grasses for splashes of color and seasonal interest.  Work towards bringing out the natural flow and design of the landscape without letting nature take over and run wild.

Just a few thoughts to keep in mind during refurbishing:

•       Watch using plants with thorns near high traffic areas

•       Keep plants that attract stinging insects away from entrances/exits

•       Carefully place plant material to keep it from growing into or hanging over your walkways or main traffic areas as it matures

•       Choose plant material that requires very little maintenance

•       And learn the maintenance requirements of the plants

          If the landscape simply needs attention, start by concentrating on things that can be done now in spring.  Redefine landscape bed edges for a dramatic effect.  Remove any residual leaves hanging out in the bushes and check for weeds.  Cut back grasses and perennials if you didn’t get to them in the fall.  For maximum plant health, use a granular acid fertilizer for evergreens and flowering shrubs and perennials.  Finally, refresh the mulch.  I’ll never forget when someone once said to me, “mulch covers a multitude of sins.”  So true!  And so nice and fresh!

Add Ambiance with Landscape Lighting

          Consider using landscape lighting to draw attention to the business.  Lighting adds beauty and ambience at the same time as safety.  Light up foot traffic routes and parking areas.  Make sure to light up business signs and entrances.  Strategically place spotlights to enhance feature plants or graze architectural features on the façade of the building.

          Businesses need to decide what they want their outward appearance to portray.  They can make a statement with their business landscape.  And welcome people with clearly lit foot traffic areas and tidy, well-kept landscape beds.