ECOSystems Landscape Services

September Landscape Tips - ECOSystems Landscape Services
Helping Transition Your Landscaping from Summer Stress to Fall Renewal

After an exceptionally hot and dry August, landscapes across Central Texas are showing the effects of prolonged heat, drought conditions, and water restrictions. Trees, turf, and ornamental plants have all been under significant stress, making September an important month for thoughtful landscape care.

As temperatures gradually begin to moderate, now is the time to help your landscape recover from summer while preparing it for the cooler months ahead. A few intentional adjustments to your maintenance practices can make a meaningful difference in the health, appearance, and resilience of your landscape.

🌳 Trees
While the risk of oak wilt transmission is significantly higher during the spring months, proper tree care remains important year-round. The combination of high temperatures and humidity during the February–June period creates particularly favorable conditions for the spread of oak wilt, while the risk generally decreases as temperatures move into extreme heat or start to cool.

Even outside the peak transmission period, proper pruning practices are essential to protecting the health of your trees. When pruning, particularly when working with oaks, always use clean, properly sanitized tools and promptly seal fresh pruning wounds with an appropriate pruning paint to reduce the opportunity for infection.

September can also be a good time to evaluate your trees for structural concerns, dead or damaged limbs, and signs of drought stress. Avoid unnecessary or aggressive pruning late in the growing season, however, as pruning can stimulate tender new growth that may not have sufficient time to harden before a freeze, potentially leaving the plant more vulnerable to winter damage.

Fall is also an excellent season for planting trees in Central Texas. Cooler temperatures allow roots to establish before the demands of next summer, but newly planted trees must receive consistent irrigation throughout the establishment period.

🌿 Ornamental Beds
Your ornamental beds have endured months of heat, and September is the perfect time to focus on restoring moisture and protecting the root zone. Maintain a healthy layer of organic mulch around perennials, shrubs, and trees to help moderate soil temperatures, conserve moisture, and improve overall soil health. Continue with a deep, infrequent watering approach whenever conditions and local restrictions allow. Deep watering encourages roots to grow farther into the soil, creating plants that are better equipped to withstand future periods of heat and drought.

September can also be an excellent time to selectively prune certain woody perennials and encourage a beautiful display of fall blooms. When pruning, follow the one-third rule—never remove more than approximately one-third of a plant's foliage at one time.

For plants experiencing significant stress, timing is especially important. Allow adequate recovery time before and after major pruning before applying fertilizers or pest-control products. Combining multiple stresses at once can place unnecessary pressure on an already weakened plant.

🌱 Turf
As September progresses and temperatures and humidity begin to moderate, resist the temptation to immediately lower your mower height. Maintaining a slightly taller mowing height during the transition away from summer heat helps protect the turf's root system and conserve moisture.

As conditions become more favorable, begin preparing your turf for fall fertilization and pre-emergent applications. Proper timing is essential for both, so applications should be based on local weather conditions, turf variety, and the specific needs of your property.

A strong fall maintenance program can help your turf recover from summer stress while building the foundation for a healthier landscape going into winter and the following spring.

💧 Irrigation
With drought conditions and water restrictions continuing to affect many Central Texas communities, efficient irrigation is more important than ever. Follow your local watering schedule and restrictions, and remember that more water does not necessarily mean healthier plants. The goal is to provide the right amount of moisture, in the right location, at the right time.

Trees showing signs of drought stress may benefit from supplemental hand watering or soaker hoses placed within the appropriate root zone. Avoid frequent, shallow watering, which can encourage shallow root development and leave plants more vulnerable to future heat.

September is also an excellent time to inspect your irrigation system. Check spray heads and rotors for proper coverage, alignment, arc, and pressure, and look for broken heads, clogged nozzles, leaks, or areas of excessive runoff. A properly functioning irrigation system not only protects your landscape—it can significantly reduce unnecessary water consumption.

Looking Ahead
September marks the beginning of the transition from the intense demands of summer toward the renewal of fall. With thoughtful pruning, proper irrigation, healthy soil practices, and timely seasonal applications, you can help your landscape recover from summer stress and prepare it for a stronger, healthier season ahead.

A little attention now can make a significant difference in how your landscape performs through the fall, winter, and into next spring.

If you would like more information on your landscape please contact ECOSystems at 512-977-0052 or E-mail at [email protected].

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September Landscape Tips Email from ECOSystems Landscape Services     September Landscape Tips Helping You Transition Your Landscaping from Summer Stress to Fall Renewal by Kim Goyette Business Development Manager After an ex

Developing Win-Win Bid Specs - ECOSystems Landscape Services

As budget season begins, many property managers are preparing landscape maintenance bid packages. While it can be tempting to send out last year's specifications, taking the time to create clear, comprehensive bid specs can save countless hours and headaches throughout the year.

Well-written specifications create a win-win for everyone involved. They help landscape contractors provide accurate pricing while giving property managers the confidence that they are comparing apples to apples.

Why Good Bid Specifications Matter

A detailed scope of work provides several important benefits:
-Clearly communicates your expectations so every contractor understands exactly what is required.
-Makes bid comparisons much easier by ensuring each proposal includes the same services.
-Creates a roadmap for implementation and contract compliance, reducing misunderstandings and helping vendors deliver consistent results throughout the year.

When expectations are clearly defined from the beginning, everyone is set up for success.

What Should Be Included?

While every property has unique needs, industry standards for a comprehensive commercial landscape maintenance program typically include:

-42–43 landscape maintenance visits per year
-Mow, blow, and edge
-Turf and bed fertilization (3 applications per year)
-Turf pre-emergent applications (2 per year)
-Post-emergent w**d control (2 per year)
-Continuous w**ding of landscape beds and tree wells
-Monthly irrigation inspections
-Shrub trimming
-Tree trimming up to 8 feet
-Tree fertilization (2 applications per year)
-Perennial cutbacks (2 per year)

Additional Services to Consider
Depending on your property's needs, you may also want to include:

-As-needed fungicide applications
-As-needed insecticide treatments
-Monthly removal of tree water sprouts
-Mulch installation
-Seasonal color change-outs

Including these services in your specifications helps eliminate uncertainty and reduces the likelihood of unexpected change orders during the contract term.

Make It Easier for Your Landscape Partner
One of the best ways to help your landscape contractor provide an accurate proposal is by supplying as much property information as possible. Consider including:

-Community map
-Irrigation map
-Pond maintenance responsibilities
-Major tree work requirements or exclusions

The more information provided upfront, the more accurate the pricing and the smoother the transition after the contract is awarded.

We're Here to Help
Developing thorough bid specifications produces better proposals and builds stronger partnerships that lead to healthier, more attractive landscapes.

If you'd like ECOSystems Landscape Services to evaluate your property and help develop a landscape maintenance solution tailored to your property, we'd be happy to help.

Contact us at [email protected] or 512-977-0052.

July Landscape Tips - ECOSystems Landscape Services

This wetter than normal spring has put us in a great position for successful plant material. But, the hot, dry weather is starting to build. So, you may have to reevalute how you care for your plants throughout the summer.

Irrigation
If you have an irrigation system, make sure it is as efficient as possible to prevent water waste. Be certain to set the controller for correct time and day settings based on your water utility restrictions. Make sure to check every head and nozzle and adjust them for proper coverage. Remember long watering cycles waste a lot of water.

It is highly recommended to utilize multiple start times with shorter run times. Doing this can greatly improve the appearance of the landscape during a drought. For example: if you run your irrigation systems for 4 cycles per day, (basically sprays for 7 minutes and rotors for 20 minutes) instead of once per day this wastes less water by using shorter cycles more often and you get less run off and more saturation. This works much better than running all the zones for hours at a time.

Also, as soon as you notice excessive runoff or pooling of the water, then you have reached the maximum run time for that area. In other words, if you reach pooling in 4 minutes, then shorten your run time to that (4 min) time and then add the additional time using another start time.

Turf
Adjust the mowing height of your lawn mower based on your turf type. Mow your St. Augustine as high as you can about 4”– 6”. Cutting St. Augustine too low can stress your turf and make it susceptible to drought, insects, and disease. Bermuda and Zoysia can be successfully maintained at a lower height. But, keep in mind that if the height is taken too low too soon, the turf could brown out and during this extreme heat it may be difficult to reestablish it.

Remember to mulch the clippings as this is best for your turf by putting much needed nutrients back into the earth. Increasing your mowing height will reduce water need and develop deeper roots. Keep your blades sharp on your mower and try to never cut off more than 1/3 of the blade at a time.

Trees
If your trees need water, make sure to water the drip line of the trees as this is where the roots take in the water best. Running a slow drip hose works wonders as it too will allow for better water depth. If you have not gotten all the dead wood out of your trees yet, now is the time.

Plants
Make sure to keep your plants mulched to help make better use of the water. Because of water restrictions, you may have to utilize a bucket or a hose if you do not have drip irrigation.

If you would like more information on your landscape please contact ECOSystems at 512-977-0052 or E-mail at [email protected].

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July Landscape Tips Email from ECOSystems Landscape Services     July Landscape Tips Reevaluating Landscape Maintenance by Kim Goyette Business Development Manager This wetter than normal spring has put us in a great pos

June Landscape Tips - ECOSystems Landscape Services
We have been enjoying the gift of a real spring in Texas! The recent, consistent rain has set a great foundation for plants to root and thrive. Get ready for more heat and dry conditions in the upcoming months.

Here are some things you can do:
-Hand water newly installed plants 2 or 3 times per week to soak the soil encouraging better, deeper roots.
-Check your irrigation, unclog nozzles, fix leaks, adjust heads. Set timers correctly. -Avoid water run-off.
-Remove or cut down struggling plants so you do not waste water trying to keep them alive.
-Mulch. This is the #1 water and plant conservation tool that can be done. Mulch not only insulates the soil from the heat, it holds in moisture, defines the bed and prevents w**ds. Keep a good layer on beds and tree rings through the heat. This could be the difference between success and failure of your plants.

Water Wise Plants
The plants in the City of Austin Native and Adaptive Plant Guide are selected for their heat and drought tolerance, resistance to pests and disease and their low water use. Some of them can survive even with very little water once they are established.

Irrigation
During the heat of summer, you generally need 1 inch of water per week to keep plants healthy. This of course depends on your plant selections. Refer to your irrigation manufacturer’s literature or their website for guidelines for “precipitation rate”. The typical spray head puts out 1 inch of water in 60 minutes. That would have to be split up between multiple days to prevent run off. Think about setting up 2 start times per night, 2 nights, 6 minutes each.

Always use the run-soak-run technique. This means short, repeated cycles on your watering day. The cycle should be short enough to prevent runoff. Many older irrigation systems have the old-style “rain shut-off” devices. Newer wireless and advanced devices are available that are less likely to fail or allow watering when you do not need it.

There are also advanced models of irrigation controllers that assure that the system waters only when the weather dictates. They link to weather stations near your home and make the most of your water use and prevent waste better than ever.

Some are even programmable from your smart phone. See your irrigation service dealer for more information.

Turf
Do not let your turf dry out, just because it got a lot of water this spring does not mean it won’t need watering all summer long. Try not to use w**d controls in the heat of summer as they can do more harm than good if done incorrectly.

If you would like more information on your landscape please contact ECOSystems at 512-977-0052 or E-mail at [email protected].

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June Landscape Tips Email from ECOSystems Landscape Services     June Landscape Tips A Real Texas Spring! by Kim Goyette Business Development Manager We have been enjoying the gift of a real spring in Texas! The recent,

May Landscape Tips - ECOSystems Landscape Service
🌿 The Hill Country is coming alive with vibrant spring color. Recent rains have triggered a beautiful flush of blooms following last year’s drought and extended cold. Now is the time to stay proactive because what you do over the next few weeks will set the foundation for how your landscape performs through the summer heat.

🌱 Mulch: Protect and Preserve
With leaf and pollen season behind us, it’s the perfect time to refresh your mulch. Proper mulching helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and improve overall plant health.

A few key tips:
-Keep mulch pulled back a few inches from tree trunks to prevent insect and disease issues
-Apply mulch in a flat, even layer avoiding “volcano” or “doughnut” shapes
-Ensure water can easily pe*****te down to the root zone
Done correctly, mulch acts as a protective barrier that supports long-term plant health.

💧 Irrigation: Set Yourself Up for Success
Establishing strong root systems now is critical before the summer heat arrives. The key is deep, infrequent watering.

We recommend:
-Performing a full irrigation system walkthrough
-Checking for clogged heads, leaks, misalignment, and poor coverage
-Measuring output using a simple method (like a tuna can) to determine inches per hour
During peak summer, turf typically needs ¾ to 1½ inches of water per week. To maximize efficiency, use a run–soak–run cycle becasue breaking watering into shorter intervals allows better absorption and reduces runoff.

🌾 Turf: Mow Smart, Not Short
As temperatures rise, mowing height becomes increasingly important:
-St. Augustine: Maintain at 3 inches or higher to shade soil and protect roots
-Bermuda & Zoysia: Can be kept shorter, but avoid cutting too low too quickly
-Longer blades help retain moisture and protect turf from heat stress, leading to a healthier, more resilient lawn.

🌸 Beds: Right Plant, Right Place
Now is the time to fine-tune your ornamental beds:
-Complete seasonal cutbacks to encourage fresh growth and blooms
-Match plants to their ideal light and soil conditions
-Remember: many native perennials thrive with full sun and minimal water once established
Thoughtful plant selection and care now will deliver stronger performance all season long.

🌿 Fertilization & W**d Control
Wrap up your post-emergent w**d control before temperatures climb too high because applications in extreme heat can stress or damage turf.

If you haven’t already:
-Apply a balanced fertilizer to strengthen turf and shrubs
Prepare your landscape to handle summer conditions with healthy, active growth

🌼 Let’s Get Your Property Summer-Ready
Spring is the ideal time to evaluate your landscape and make sure everything is performing at its best. Whether it’s maintenance, irrigation adjustments, or enhancements, proactive care now leads to better results all year long.

📞 Contact ECOSystems Landscape Services at 512-977-0052 or email [email protected] to schedule a walkthrough or discuss how we can support your property.

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May Landscape Tips Email from ECOSystems Landscape Services     May Landscape Tips Spring is in Full Bloom! Is Your Landscape Ready for Summer? by Kim Goyette Business Development Manager 🌿 The Hill Country is coming a

April Landscape Tips - ECOSystems Landscape Services

🌿 Spring Has Arrived—Let’s Make the Most of It

Spring is finally settling in, and even if the season arrived a bit later than usual, the wildflowers are beginning to put on a beautiful show. With recent rains coming and milder temperatures, now is the perfect time to set your landscape up for a vibrant and healthy season ahead.

🌳 Trees: Set the Foundation for Summer
This time of year is ideal for strengthening your trees before the summer heat arrives. Proper hydration and nourishment now will go a long way in helping trees withstand stress later.

While pruning is generally not recommended during active growth cycles, sometimes it’s necessary. If so, be mindful:

Avoid removing more than one-third of the tree’s canopy
Minimize stress by ensuring consistent watering
Use a slow drip irrigation method at the drip line for deep root hydration
A little attention now can significantly improve long-term tree health and resilience.

🌸 Ornamental Beds: Embrace Native Beauty
Spring is one of the best times to introduce new plantings, especially perennials. In Central Texas, native and well-adapted plants offer both beauty and durability. Check out the Native Adapted Plant Guide put out by The City of Austin for more than 200 varieties of plant that are successful in our Central and South Texas conditions.

Benefits of native plants include:
-Lower water requirements
-Strong adaptability to local soil and climate
-Seasonal color that reflects the natural --Hill Country landscape

A few standout choices include:
-Salvias (Mexican Bush Sage, Autumn Sage, Indigo Spires)
-Lantana (a true low-maintenance favorite)
-Turks Cap, Pavonia, Copper Canyon Daisy, Fall Aster, Black-Eyed Susan

Be mindful of light and water needs because many natives actually perform better with less water once established, producing stronger growth and more vibrant blooms.

🌱 Turf: Healthy Growth Starts with Smart Mowing
Routine mowing is essential, but mowing height plays a critical role in turf health especially as temperatures rise.

-St. Augustine: Maintain at 4 inches or higher to protect roots and retain soil moisture
-Bermuda & Zoysia: Can be kept shorter, but avoid cutting too low too quickly

Longer blades provide natural shading, helping soil retain moisture and protecting root systems from heat stress. Proper mowing now sets the stage for a fuller, more resilient lawn through the summer.

🌼 Looking Ahead
Spring is a season of opportunity. With the right preparation and plant choices, your landscape can thrive beautifully through the hotter months ahead.

If you’re considering enhancements, renovations, or evaluating your current service, this is also an ideal time to explore your options and ensure your property is receiving the highest level of care.

ECOSystems is Here for All of Your Landscape Needs

Spring is the perfect time to take a fresh look at your landscape. Whether you’re considering improvements or exploring new service options, connect with ECOSystems Landscape Services today at 512-977-0052 or [email protected].

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April Landscape Tips Email from ECOSystems Landscape Services     April Landscape Tips Spring is Here! by Kim Goyette Business Development Manager 🌿 Spring Has Arrived—Let’s Make the Most of It Spring is finally settling

March Landscape Tips - ECOSystems Landscape Services

Spring is in the air and the first signs of wildflowers have appeared all over town. It is time to prep your landscaping for a successful year!

Turf
Now is the time to prepare your lawn. If you have not done so yet, get your pre-emergent w**d control applications completed in order to help prevent w**ds. Once the last freeze hits, lower your mow height by about 1/3 to remove some of the brown blades. Do not scalp St. Augustine to the ground, as this will do more harm than good. Lowering the mow height will also help to allow the soil to warm up faster.

Apply a high nitrogen fertilizer; look for slow release formulas to help feed your lawn. Remember, even dormant turf needs to have the roots fed.

Spot spray any remaining w**ds in shrub beds and turf areas with appropriate herbicides. Once these are dead, the pre-emergent should provide satisfactory control for at least two months. DO NOT use non-selective herbicides in your turf or you will end up with dead brown circles.

Shrubs
Clean up all the leaves from around the base of your shrubs when doing your perennial cut-backs. Shrubs planted early in March and April will have a much better chance of surviving the hot summer heat and the watering restrictions.

Irrigation
Check and repair your irrigation system. When watering is needed, try so soak the soil to a depth of about 4" and allow the soil to "dry out" before watering again. If rainfall is adequate, turn your controller off or install a rain sensor to do it automatically for you as to not waste water.

If you would like more information on your landscape please contact ECOSystems at 512-977-0052 or E-mail at [email protected].

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March Landscape Tips Email from ECOSystems Landscape Services     March Landscape Tips Spring is Coming! by Kim Goyette Business Development Manager Spring is in the air and the first signs of wildflowers have appeared al

February Landscape Tips - ECOSystems Landscape Services
Is it winter or spring? Central Texas sure has had some wacky weather this season. Cold and in the teens one day, beautiful and 70’s the next. No matter what the weather, if you can’t wait to get back to work on your yard, there are plenty of things you can do to prep your landscaping.

Trees
This is a great time of the year for pruning of Oak trees to help prevent possible spread of Oak Wilt. Remove deadwood, crossing branches, and raise canopies as needed. Use pruning paint on all cuts to seal the wounds. Do your best to complete all tree pruning by the end of the month before trees come out of dormancy.

Ornamental Beds
Cut back perennials to about 2”- 4” above the ground after the second hard freeze of the year. Removing dead wood from some perennials before the last freeze may remove the last line of defense the plant has from lasting frost damage. Cut back ornamental grasses to 10” – 12” above ground. Trim back roses right after Valentine's Day.

Fertilize ornamental beds with balanced slow release fertilizer. Deadhead winter annuals such as Snapdragons, Pansies, Dianthus, and Cyclamen. Continue to fertilize your flowers to maintain blooms but remember the freezes can set them back.

Treat or hand pull broadleaf w**ds such as Dandelion and Clover. Pre-emergent herbicides can be applied in February to help minimize spring w**ds. Begin cleaning up leaves and debris in shrub beds in preparation for your pre-emergent herbicide applications. Remember to keep your mulch depth at about 1” - 2” to help protect the roots and make the best use of water.

Turf
Although we just got some much needed rain, remember to continue to water as necessary since the root systems of your grass are still growing even in the winter months. This is a good month to do your pre-emergent and fertilize your grass. Remember to keep the leaves cleaned up and not allow them to lay on the grass and cause it to die.

If you would like more information on your landscape please contact ECOSystems at 512-977-0052 or E-mail at [email protected].

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February Landscape Tips Email from ECOSystems Landscape Services     February Landscape Tips Getting Ready for Spring! by Kim Goyette Business Development Manager Is it winter or spring? Central Texas sure has had some wacky