Transforming a neglected yard into a beautiful, functional space requires thoughtful planning, expert execution, and dedicated care. Lee’s General Landscaping recently worked with L.T. to clean up and revitalize their property, install new flower beds, and lay fresh sod. The result? A yard that exceeded expectations, despite the challenges of weeds, heat, and wildlife.
L.T.’s Landscaping Experience: From Neglect to Renewal
Date: August 5, 2021
Location: Seattle, WA
After purchasing a home with a yard in poor condition, L.T. focused initially on remodeling the inside of the house. When it came time to address the landscaping, Lee’s General Landscaping stepped in to help create a stunning transformation of the front and backyard.
Project Highlights:
- Comprehensive Yard Cleanup:
- Cleared debris and overgrowth from the front and back yards.
- New Flower Beds:
- Designed and installed new flower beds, enhancing curb appeal and creating a clean, fresh look.
- Sod Installation:
- Installed new sod to create a lush, green lawn, with extra care to help it thrive during hot summer weather.
- Detailed Estimates and Transparent Communication:
- Duy provided a thorough review of the scope and costs, ensuring no surprises and that all parties were aligned on the project details.
How Lee’s Delivered Outstanding Results
Lee’s General Landscaping approached the project with professionalism, patience, and attention to detail, earning L.T.’s trust and praise.
- Thoughtful Planning and Execution:
- Challenge: Addressing a neglected yard while balancing the client’s ongoing home remodel.
- Solution: Lee’s team worked methodically, designing a plan that revitalized the outdoor space and aligned with the client’s timeline.
- Extra Care for New Sod:
- Challenge: Installing and maintaining sod during a hot summer required diligence.
- Solution: The team ensured proper watering and care, providing tips to protect the sod from heat and wildlife.
- Honest and Reliable Service:
- Challenge: Ensuring clear communication and accurate pricing throughout the project.
- Solution: Duy provided transparent estimates, stayed within budget, and offered ongoing support and advice for lawn maintenance.
L.T.’s Feedback:
“Duy and his team are very easy to work with. Duy reviews the estimate/job in detail so there are no surprises, and everyone is on the same page. Prices are not escalated, but as stated. Very honest and reliable. They went the extra mile to make sure the new sod survived the hot sun. One of the best contractors I’ve worked with during this remodel process.”
Lessons Learned and Lawn Care Tips
While thrilled with the results, L.T. shared additional insights to help fellow homeowners manage their landscaping projects:
- Weed Management Before Sod Installation:
Treating dandelions thoroughly before laying sod can prevent regrowth. Fall is an ideal time for this process as weed treatments are more effective. - Sprinkler and Watering Tips:
- Use a sprinkler that fits your yard’s shape, like the Gilmour circular sprinkler.
- Ensure sprinklers reach all areas, especially corners, to prevent patches of grass from drying out.
- Protect New Sod from Wildlife:
- Use a motion-activated sprinkler, such as the Havahart Critter Ridder, to deter raccoons.
- Consider temporary fencing to secure sod until roots establish.
- Aeration for Compact Soil:
Aerating the lawn can improve water absorption, especially on slopes where water tends to run off.
Comprehensive Services Offered by Lee’s General Landscaping
Lee’s General Landscaping specializes in transforming outdoor spaces, providing tailored solutions for each client’s unique needs.
Key Services Include:
- Yard Cleanup: Removing overgrowth, debris, and unwanted vegetation to restore order.
- Sod Installation: Creating lush, green lawns with careful attention to preparation and maintenance.
- Flower Bed Design and Installation: Enhancing properties with attractive, functional garden spaces.
- Landscape Design: Crafting custom plans to bring outdoor spaces to life.
- Seasonal Maintenance: Preparing yards for spring and fall to keep them pristine year-round.
- Weed Management: Effective treatment and prevention of invasive plants.
Why Choose Lee’s General Landscaping?
Here’s why homeowners like L.T. trust Lee’s General Landscaping for their outdoor transformations:
- Experienced Professionals: A team skilled in all aspects of landscaping, from design to maintenance.
- Transparent Communication: Honest estimates and detailed reviews ensure clarity and trust.
- Reliable and Flexible: Working around clients’ timelines and needs for seamless results.
- Dedicated Care: Going the extra mile to ensure every project thrives, even in challenging conditions.
Hear from Our Happy Clients
L.T. from Seattle, WA shares:
“This company landscaped the property before I bought it. The yard was in bad shape to begin with and I didn’t focus as much on the outside while remodeling the inside of the house. Duy was patient while I figured out what to do with the landscaping. Ultimately we did a front and backyard cleanup, made new flower beds and put in new sod. I love the yard, it turned out even better than expected. Duy and his team are very easy to work with. Duy reviews the estimate/job in detail so there are no surprises and everyone is on the same page. Prices are not escalated, but as stated. Very honest and reliable. They went the extra mile to make sure the new sod survived the hot sun. One of the best contractors I’ve worked with during this remodel process. Highly recommend!
*PSA: putting down new sod will not get rid of a dandelion infestation even if tilled if there is an extensive taproot system. We discussed this concern and unfortunately the weeds did come back. Perhaps the huge taproots were not realized and they thought they were younger weeds? I already have over 100 well established dandelions back in the yard with roots the size of a finger. They are not new from seeds blown in.
Based on too much googling, if I had to do it over again I would have asked about waiting until early fall. I would rip the yard out. Then I would have wait a couple weeks for the dandelions to come back up and would use something like Sunday dandelion doom, weed warrior or horticultural vinegar. I read sometimes you have to treat twice to be sure you got them all. Fall is best because the treatment will be pulled to the root as dandelions prepare for winter. If you pull them, you have to get the whole root, which can be nearly impossible with the 5-10 year old dandelions. Anything left behind will just grow even more robust buds, like Hydra. If you can’t get the whole root spray one of the aforementioned treatments on a taproot after you split it. A weed mat would have also been a good idea for the flower beds. After the weeds are treated then I would put the new sod down. Now I have a green and thick lawn but with the same dandelion problem as before… Fall is also better for new sod when it isn’t as hot. I lost a corner of the yard that I will patch when the weather is conducive. My sprinkler was reaching as well as I thought. I do like the Gilmore circular sprinkler because you can adjust how far it sprays to customize to your yard shape. It couldn’t reach the back corner well when I had it on the patio before the grass was established. It’s fine now that the sprinkler is the the lawn. My yard is sloped too, so not all of it was getting watered evenly.
Also, raccoons pull up new sod so consider getting a motion activated sprinkler. I use the havahart critter ridder. I’ve also heard of people using the plastic flexible fencing and small metal u-shaped stakes to hold it down until the roots are established.
I think my soil is compacted too and should have asked about aeration for better water absorption. I can see the water running down the hill in the sod seams. I don’t know if tilling does the same thing.
I’ve had to be really on top of lawn care between the dandelions, heat and raccoons to try and rehab it with the new sod. Duy has been nice coaching me through this. I wish I would have been a bit more methodical on the front end. Will refine the rest when they return for fall clean up and working on new landscape for the front yard. Hope this helps some yard novices like myself so you don’t have to learn the hard way.
Transform Your Yard with Lee’s General Landscaping
Whether you’re tackling a neglected yard or designing a new outdoor space, Lee’s General Landscaping is here to help. From cleanup to sod installation and beyond, we ensure your yard looks its best.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation and experience the exceptional service that homeowners like L.T. trust. Let’s create an outdoor space you’ll love!
Lee’s General Landscaping – Your Trusted Partner for Quality Landscaping Services in Seattle, WA.
