When Should Commercial Irrigation Systems Be Winterized in Chicago?
Commercial irrigation systems throughout the Chicago and Kenosha areas should be winterized before prolonged freezing temperatures can damage pipes, valves, backflow devices, and other components. However, winterizing too early can leave turf, newly installed plants, and evergreens without the water they need during a dry fall. The right timing balances freeze protection with the landscape’s…
Why Leaf Removal Matters for Commercial Landscapes in the Chicago Area
Fallen leaves are a normal part of autumn in the Chicago area and Southeast Wisconsin, but allowing them to remain on a commercial landscape can create problems that last beyond the season. Heavy leaf accumulation can weaken turf, block drainage, create slippery walking conditions, and make entrances or common areas appear neglected. A planned leaf-removal…
How Fall Landscape Improvements Can Refresh High-Visibility Areas
The most visible parts of a commercial landscape often experience the greatest amount of stress. Entrances, monument signs, parking-lot islands, walkways, and outdoor gathering areas are exposed to traffic, heat, reflected sunlight, and compacted soil throughout the summer. By fall, these areas may look thin, overgrown, faded, or worn. Targeted landscape improvements can restore their appearance,…
What Fall Fertilization Does for Chicagoland Commercial Lawns
After months of heat, foot traffic, mowing, and inconsistent rainfall, commercial turf can look thin, pale, or uneven by the end of summer. Fortunately, fall brings better growing conditions for the cool-season grasses commonly used throughout Chicagoland and southeastern Wisconsin. A properly timed fall fertilization program provides nutrients while the turf is actively growing. It can support…