Trust all of your commercial landscape tree planting to the professionals at Pugh’s Earthworks

Pugh's Earthworks Planting trees is always a major part of creating an attractive commercial landscape. However, if trees are not planted correctly, problems may arise. Selection of the proper tree is critical as you may want shade trees or you may want decorative trees or both. The certified landscape professionals at Pugh's Earthworks are trained on all facets of proper tree planting. It is pretty common knowledge that trees like other certain shrubs and grass are dormant during the winter. This is when the root growing season is at its best. Conversely in the summer, the foliage above ground is in full growth mode. Thus planting trees during the fall or early spring makes for a healthier tree and one that can withstand the high summer heat. Though you may want to plant the whole year round to keep your landscape looking beautiful, the weather is always a factor to consider that may stop you from doing so. That is because temperature extremes like severely cold or extremely hot are difficult for a new planting to handle. After all, they are just trying to take root and may be in shock with their new surroundings. Yes, plants, trees, and shrubs can undergo stress when placed in extreme conditions like excessive heat that occurs in the middle of summer. The heat can interfere with proper root development, causing the trees and shrubs to die. While you should avoid it, there are some ways to still do some planting in the middle of summer. First, do your planting in the evening and then water new plants after planting. You can also opt to do the planting on cloudy days. Then, use water bags and irrigation systems to ensure they have enough water so their roots can thrive even in the heat. The better times to plant trees and shrubs are early fall, late spring, and early summer. So, the next time to consider is early fall for your planting goals. It's a good idea to plant trees when they are dormant. Also, soak the shrub or tree in its pot before removing it to plant as this helps reduce the risk of damaging its tender roots. Provide good soil by adding a compost mixture and mulch after planting the tree or shrub. It can be challenging to plant trees and shrubs in a way that gives them a chance to grow and thrive. That is why we are here to help.  Contact us today to learn more about our planting, landscaping, and garden maintenance services. Pugh's Earthworks Tennessee Commercial Landscape and Maintenance Services Pugh's Earthworks provides commercial landscape design and maintenance services throughout Tennessee, including Memphis, Jackson, and Nashville. We have five commercial landscape service operations in three states, including landscapes and service lawns and landscaping in Little Rock, Arkansas. Our monthly services include landscape design and maintenance, customized to your needs, budget, and seasonal situation. We have the highest level of dedication and commitment to quality which keeps Pugh's [...]

The certified professionals at Pugh’s Earthworks are experienced at controlling and preventing drought damage to commercial landscapes

Pugh's Earthworks Summer time is here. Some parts of the country are already feeling record heat for mid June. It does not take many days of this excessive heat to dry out the soil. You start to see signs of early drought as grasses and plants show signs of discoloration and stress. The certified landscape professionals at Pugh's Earthworks are trained and knowledgeable regarding detecting, preventing and treating commercial landscapes that are in early or late stages of drought and heat stress. We understand that having a lawn with deep roots helps protect it when it gets so hot during those summer months. It is those deep roots that hold the water and keep the grass cooler so that it won't die out from the excessive heat. Here are some lawn maintenance tips to promote those deep roots for your lawn. Soil Start with cultivating the topsoil. Sandy loam or well-drained loam gives roots the ability to stretch out and grow. If you have sandy soil, know that it doesn’t retain water very well. That's when you will need to add organic matter, which delivers the necessary nutrients and increases water retention. Water Keep this soil moist. Grass needs at least an inch of water weekly. However, you don't need to water every day. It is actually infrequent watering that encourages deep root growth. Water must get below the root zone to help nourish the roots so they can become deeper. An automatic sprinkler system helps ensure that your lawn receives the right amount of water at the right time. Mowing Mow frequently and keep grass at the right height for the type of grass you have. For example, grass with large crowns or clumps, which is typically Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue, should be mowed at a much taller height. In contrast, Zoysia grass should have a shorter mowing. Whatever kind of grass you have, be sure to mow no more than one-third of the blade lengths at a time. This stimulates growth and protects the roots. Fertilizer Fertilize at the end of the growing season to achieve strong root growth. Slow-release fertilizers are often touted as the best for promoting the growth of the grass roots. AgriGro biostimulants have also been proven to increase root growth. This is because these substances help plants endure environmental stress better than those that were not treated. Other Maintenance You can also encourage strong roots by giving them plenty of room to grow. This means pulling any weeds, which have root systems that like to choke the roots of the grass. Plus, it involves periodic aeration, which allows air and water to reach the roots. Use a core aerator, which will reduce soil compaction. That way, the water can penetrate all the way down to the roots Be sure to also remove what is known as thatch by using a rake to clear this dead organic material and grass clippings from the soil. From following these tips, you'll most likely improve the chances [...]

Pugh’s Earthworks strongly adheres to industry accepted safety precautions for the landscape industry

Pugh's Earthworks In the landscape industry, safety is a paramount concern. Protection for landscape technicians is critical. Pugh's Earthworks employs a safety engineer who is up to date on all industry safety practices. The safety engineer holds periodic training sessions so that every employee understands the importance of work safety and the best ways to ensure good safety precautions are always upheld. Some of the guidelines followed are listed below. Report unsafe working conditions or equipment to your supervisor. Identify and destroy harmful or noxious plants such as poison ivy. Protect against insects with insect repellents or protective clothing when needed. Use caution in areas where you may encounter wild animals or unfriendly domestic ones. Rest periodically during strenuous jobs such as digging or sawing: work-rest schedules vary according to temperature conditions, how strenuous the work is, and how acclimatized ("used to") the worker is to the workload. Make sure emergency telephone numbers are clearly posted or readily available. Know the location of the first aid kit and how to use the contents. Do not touch stray or dead animals. Contact an animal control agency for removal. Wear respiratory protection if you must clean up waste, leaves or dust that may contain mouse droppings. Mice can carry the hantavirus which can become airborne with dust and may be inhaled by workers. Be aware of expected weather conditions for the day, and plan accordingly. Have plans about where to go if severe weather hits. Know where to seek shelter in a thunderstorm (fully enclosed metal vehicles, with windows up or a building (not sheds). Learn proper hand washing techniques. Wash your hands thoroughly after before eating, using the washroom, or changing tasks (using different tools and/or different locations). Personal Protective Equipment Tips: Wear high-cut CSA certified safety footwear with toe caps and reinforced, non-skid soles. Use approved (e.g. CSA Z94.1) head protection when working under branches or where there may be falling objects. Use appropriate eye protection (safety glasses or goggles) whenever dust or debris may get into your eyes (eg. when power tilling, breaking up rocks or concrete) or when using strong cleaning agents, spraying or dusting. Wear sturdy, well-fitting gloves with grip. Use vibration-absorbing gloves while operating vibrating equipment. Wear suitable chemical-resistant rubber or plastic gloves when handling fertilizers and pesticides and other chemicals. Wear hearing protection devices (e.g., ear muffs, ear plugs) that provide appropriate protection from noise produced by equipment being used. Protect yourself from the sun - use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and re-apply sunscreen as required throughout the day. Consider wearing lightweight long pants (v.s. shorts) and long-sleeved shirts. Wear a brimmed hat and comfortable clothing that provides sun protection. Wear sunglasses that filter out at least 90% of the sun's ultraviolet rays. Take regular rest breaks inside. Frequent short pauses are better than longer breaks further apart. Do not wear loose-fitting or torn clothing. Pugh's Earthworks Employee Safety Seminar Pugh’s Earthworks was originally started by [...]

Pugh’s Earthworks recommends the use of compost for commercial property nutrition and for the environment

Pugh's Earthworks The certified technicians at Pugh's Earthworks have learned, through their many hours of studies, that compost renders numerous benefits. For one it helps the environment tremendously. It retains a very large amount of water. This water retention prevents or reduces soil erosion by controlling runoff.  When water flows downstream it carries with it many pollutants. Things like heavy metals, nitrogen, phosphorus, oil and grease, fuels, herbicides, and pesticides. All these chemicals are found in such things as fertilizer, gasoline for power tools etc. Compost is a natural fertilizer. The decomposition process of organic matter that includes some of that food waste you throw away. It is that compost and what it is made of that helps nourish the soil and feeds those plants or that lawn. Compost can be made on a small scale like what people do with the organic aspects of their trash. It is typically made in a large container. Or, it can be created on a much larger scale. Besides food, compost can also include grass clippings, leaves, hay, seashells, tree bark and twigs, animal manure, and straw. The compost mixture typically consists of two parts of dry material like leaves to one part wet or green material, such as grass clippings. The mixture is then left to decompose. Air movement is important, but the decomposing compost must also remain evenly moist. What makes compost so good for the lawn and other landscape is the microorganisms. Millions of microbes deliver the necessary nutrients to the soil to help stimulate plant growth. With all the nutrients, the grass becomes healthier. Just think of it as vitamins for the grass. To apply compost to a lawn, it needs to be spread with shovels to create a layer across the lawn that is about 1/4" thick. After a rake can be used to ensure the compost is evenly spread. It is good to apply the compost just after seeding and aerating. Because microorganisms are continually reproducing and dying, you can never add too much compost to the lawn. Once organic matter starts to build up in the soil, you can apply compost much less.  Also, you won't need to fertilize and water the lawn while weed, insect, and disease will also decrease. This illustrates another benefit of using compost for the lawn. To get professional assistance with composting, contact the certified technicians at Pugh's Earthworks contact us now to find out how we can help you maintain a lush commercial lawn while doing marvelous things to protect our precious environment. Spreading Compost for Plants Pugh’s Earthworks Credentials/Affiliations/Degrees, Certifications The Pugh’s Earthworks team has all the proper credentials, degrees and certifications necessary to deliver top quality landscape and lawn maintenance design, installation and maintenance services. Our team is experienced, highly skilled. They all operate with a customer first attitude. Our firm is one of the largest landscape and lawn maintenance companies in Tennessee. We have all the right equipment to handle commercial landscape and lawn maintenance projects. Our [...]

Pugh’s Earthworks is a premiere Commercial Landscape Design and Maintenance company in all of the states and communities we serve

Pugh's Earthworks Pugh's Earthworks provides commercial landscape design and maintenance services throughout Tennessee, including Memphis, Jackson, and Nashville, In addition, we service commercial lawns and landscaping in Little Rock, Arkansas.  Our services include commercial landscape design, including plants, hardscape, irrigation, lighting and more. If you are thinking of adding commercial landscape to your business, the Certified Landscape Technicians at Pugh's Earthworks are the team to contact before starting the project. Things to consider include: First, your landscape should reflect your business and brand. If you are touting sustainability and environmental activities, then your landscape needs to show that. Or, if your business offers relaxation, then create a Zen-like space. Second, think about how people will engage with your business and how you can offer them spaces to stay longer. This is especially important if you are a retail business. Adding amenities like benches, chairs, tables, and other outdoor spaces that invite them to remain on your property. Next, you'll need to think about where and how people approach your business. Use natural objects like trees and shrubs to line the path that takes them straight to your company's front door. Then, it is important to create an attractive space with your landscape that is tidy, offers shade, or provides a refreshing feel. It will make people want to come there rather than turn them away. Finally, consider your architecture and how your commercial landscape should coordinate with that look. You will need to look at color, texture, shape, and style. Overall, another important consideration for commercial landscape is how you can conserve water and energy through your design.  For example, if you add a green roof to your building helps with controlling water run-off as well as lowers heating and cooling costs. Zen Landscape Pugh's Earthworks Qualifications When you choose Pugh's Earthworks as your Commercial Landscaping company, you can rest assured that from start to finish this team is a premiere Commercial Landscaping company in their markets and in the nation for that matter. To excel and perform at their level takes hard work, dedication and lots of education. In order to become a certified landscape technician, some employers may look for individuals that are licensed or certified in horticulture.  Certification is not always required for landscape technicians. However, earning these credentials enhances the ability for career advancement.  There are organizations offering certification to landscape technicians. One such organization is the Professional Land Care Network (PLN). Using the services of a certified technician typically yields greater results with respect to the beauty and the environment effectiveness of your landscape. Technicians have a broad range of expertise. They can design interior gardens, complex exterior plantings, walkways, retaining walls and bridges. In addition, certified technicians are sometimes employed in nurseries where they can use their expert knowledge to assist customers. There are varying levels of education and expertise as with most industry trades. Some colleges offer two and four year programs. In these programs students learn extensive knowledge not only [...]

The Pugh’s Earthworks certified landscape technicians will make your curb appeal pop

Pugh's Earthworks Curb appeal is extremely important and something the experts at Pugh's Earthworks will deliver for your commercial property.  Consider the importance of how the front of your business looks to passers-by. The façade of a building is the single most important factor determining its curb appeal. It is the first impression that customers will see of your business. Attractive signage, uncluttered windows and fresh paint can go a long way in presenting your business at its best. Next, consider your signage. It should be in plain view and easy to read. It should also be made out of quality materials. Remember the old saying “you get what you pay for” and avoid cheap-looking material. Choose a sign that complements the business district that you’re located in. If you’re in a shopping center your sign should match the size, style and material of the other businesses in the center. And remember to check with your local permit office to learn if you need a sign permit. Take a look at your parking area. You will want ample, convenient parking on a paved lot with clear markings. Lots should be well-maintained; potholes should be fixed and faded lines should be repainted. If you are located in an urban area with lots of asphalt and no trees, consider adding tree islands and evergreen shrubs. This can make a huge impact on your curb appeal while at the same time improving the environment. Remove grass that invariably grows in cracks next to curbs and sidewalks as well as in parking lots. The Pugh's Earthworks certified technicians will keep your commercial landscaping well-maintained and well-manicured. Updating your business landscaping with simple evergreen shrubs can have a huge impact at relatively low-cost. Consider adding color to your site with knock-out roses. They are hardy in a southern climate and are being used more frequently in privately-owned commercial projects as well as publicly-owned street medians. If you have Crape Myrtle trees on your property keep the “suckers” – all the new shoots that occur around the base of Crape Myrtle trees – trimmed away. And do not forget to keep the public sidewalk in front of your business free from weeds, tree limbs and other debris. Businesses first impressions are judged by their curb appeal and overall appearance. Fortunately, your business’ image is within your control. Consider these tips and implement those your business needs and contact Pugh's Earthworks to help with your landscaping needs. Pugh’s Earthworks is one of the Mid South’ s leading commercial landscape installation and maintenance companies. Pugh’s Earthworks provides the highest quality landscaping services available. We are Memphis landscape maintenance experts. Our team is committed to acting with the utmost of integrity with our business operations and for clients and the communities we serve. Every job we do is backed by our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. We are one of the largest landscape design, installation and maintenance firms in the Mid South area. Our clients include some of [...]

Your commercial property grass and plants need nutrition in the Spring and the Pugh’s Earthworks professionals know the correct fertilizer to apply

Pugh's Earthworks The certified landscape technicians at Pugh's Earthworks, are licensed and well versed in all types of fertilizer and chemical commercial lawn applications. It is Spring which is a critical time to fertilize your lawn and plants. That is because this is when growing season starts again. The fertilizer has the nutrition that all green things need to really start growing. In addition to the proper application of fertilizers, commercial lawns must have adequate water. Again the certified landscape technicians at Pugh's Earthworks will consult with each property owner on the correct level of watering to maximize the health of the lawn. Water promotes cell enlargement and aids in evaporative cooling. Lawns and plants also require sunlight and carbon dioxide for energy production as well as oxygen for respiration. Lawn growth also involves getting nutrients from the soil that are absorbed by roots. Sometimes, the soil does not have these nutrients so that's where fertilizer comes in to help out. In fact, one research article noted that there must be at least 18 elements for proper plant growth. And, if any are missing, it could limit plant or lawn growth. This includes nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. By applying fertilizer to the soil, the soil becomes more fertile. The result is that the plants and lawn that the soil feeds becomes healthier, resisting damage from insects and fungus. Commercial property owners will be able to tell if plants, trees, and lawns are not getting the right nutrition. That is because their leaves will be yellow or light green. They may even have dead spots on them. There will be fewer leaves. And, the ones that are there will be smaller than normal. There will also be poor plant structure and root growth. Look for fertilizers that incorporate organic enzymes and amino acids. These help plants and lawns deal with any seasonal stresses from heat or frosts as well as transplanting. Since more insects and diseases also turn up at this time, these ingredients in the fertilizer will help strengthen the roots and offer protection. Look for fertilizers for certain types of plants, shrubs, and lawns. It helps to use a customized fertilizer for the area you want to feed. If you are not sure, contact us at Pugh's Earthworks and we'll be glad to help with lawn fertilizing and yard fertilizing. The Pugh's Earthworks management team started out small and with little experience. With hard work, dedication and the strong will to succeed, the three brothers have created a superior and well run commercial landscaping company. From the management team to the most junior landscape technician, we are committed to being the most trusted and results oriented landscaping company in the markets we serve. Every aspect of the business is taken seriously from hiring, ongoing training, equipment investment and certification/licensing.  Pugh's Earthworks does not cut corners with staffing, equipment and hiring of vendors to help the company stand out. It is this dedication and commitment to quality that [...]

Trust all of your tree and shrub pruning to the landscape experts at Pugh’s Earthworks

Pugh's Earthworks Trees are starting to leaf out but the Crape Myrtle is usually one of the last to bloom. Personally having three of these lovely trees I wondered about the proper pruning technique. I see many that have been cut back or topped by owners so assumed this is proper. The professionals at Pugh's Earthworks have the skills, training and expertise when it comes to healthy care for trees and shrubs. I suppose there are different theories regarding Crape Myrtles and I found one that resonates with me. Topping trees for the most part can be harmful. This is especially true when it comes to the Crape Myrtle.  Pugh's Earthworks uses the science of horticulture and our professionals know when and how much to trim trees and shrubs. While topping Crape Myrtles is not the best course of action, the tree itself is very resilient and will be fine. However, this particular theory points out that the tree will not reach its full potential if it is annually topped.  When pruned properly, the Crape Myrtle has a vase shape that accentuates it's beautiful blooms and satiny bark. It is one of the South's most versatile landscaping trees. The most common reason for pruning these hearty trees is that they have gotten too tall for their space. In that instance, it's better to replace the trees with plants that fit the space better and transplant the crape myrtle to a better area where they can grow and shine. To properly prune these 'lilacs of the south' follow these simple steps: Remove the suckers from the bottom of the tree. Remove broken, crossed or diseased limbs. If two limbs are crossed, remove the weaker of the two. Prune just the tips of the branches to remove the old blooms. When blooms are removed another blooming may occur. Thin out the small, twiggy growth to allow air to circulate in the canopy of the tree. If a previous landscaper has committed this crime, there are measures that can be taken to return the tree to it's beautiful potential. It will take years but can be done by cutting the tree back within one to two inches of the ground. When new shoots emerge, select 3 to 5 of the strongest branches on each trunk and remove the others. After 3 - 5 years of growth the tree will be back to it's lovely shape with branches full of blooms. Whether in Memphis, Nashville, Little Rock or Jackson the crape myrtle is a staple of landscape design. When it comes to pruning the trees and shrubs that surround your commercial property, trust the certified technicians at Pugh's Earthworks. They will keep your landscape beautiful and healthy. The Pugh's Earthworks management team started out small and with little experience. With hard work, dedication and the strong will to succeed, the three brothers have created a superior and well run commercial landscaping company. From the management team to the most junior landscape technician, [...]

Pugh’s Earthworks has the experience to control lawn and shrub insect damage

Pugh's Earthworks May is now here and Spring is in full swing. Such a beautiful time of year. The weather is becoming comfortable, lawns are starting to green, flowers are blooming, trees are leafing out and insects are coming out of hiding! Pugh’s Earthworks services include pest control for commercial and residential properties. We partner with Rosie’s Pest Control and hold the necessary certifications in compliance with state regulations to prevent, eliminate and exclude pests from commercial properties, inside and out. A wide variety of common pests including mosquitos, flies, bedbugs, rodents, roaches, spiders and ants are treated with EPA approved, environmentally friendly products. Safety of individuals and pets is key in all treatment procedures. “Convenience is of utmost importance to property managers and business owners, and we have expanded our services to include indoor and outdoor pest control solutions in order to accommodate the needs of our commercial clientele” says owner Mark Pugh. “We feel that offering a more comprehensive variety of services is in the best interest of our existing and potential customers.” Mark Pugh has over 20 years of experience in the landscaping business and Pugh’s Earthworks has offices in Memphis, Little Rock, Nashville and Jackson MS. The Pugh’s business model has been to provide excellence in customer service and listen to what their clients are asking for. This willingness to adapt and expand has resulted in a successful courier service that was born out of flower delivery vans. Now, with the pest control expansion, Pugh’s has taken advantage of another opportunity to serve its customers more completely. The Pugh brothers have done an admirable job with business expansion and adapting to meet the needs of existing customers in a constantly changing economic climate. Here are some tips for spring insect control: Store and dispose of food and waste properly, including any bins located around your commercial property. Keep these bins tightly closed and empty them daily. Control moisture and standing water around your commercial property. High humidity contributes to pest egg production. Fix any leaks and clear out gutters and downspouts. Also, trim tall grass and remove any wet or decaying wood. Inspect perimeter areas around your commercial property for areas that may ideal for insects to breed and live. Treat these areas first. Trim back trees and shrubs touching your commercial building as insects like to live there. If there are any fruit trees, clean these up because ants and other insects love the fruit. Keep all areas of your commercial property as clean as possible. Insects like debris and trash so remove all brush piles, excess leaves, and trash. Avoid mulch because insects love its warmth and moisture. The mulch should be used sparingly or not at all. Contact us now to find out how we can reduce and even eliminate insects now so you don't have to deal with them throughout the year. By getting control of pests now, there will be less work to do the rest of the year. Only companies that have [...]

Pugh’s Earthworks designs and provides professional landscape maintenance for many Retail and Office property customers

Pugh's Earthworks Pugh's Earthworks specializes in commercial landscape design and maintenance services throughout Tennessee, including Memphis, Jackson, and Nashville. We also service commercial lawns and landscaping in Little Rock, Arkansas.  Services included in the Pugh's Earthworks menu of options are commercial landscape design, plants, hardscape, irrigation, lighting and more, as well as maintenance for lawns and landscape areas. We are extremely proud of our sizable list of valuable and satisfied clients. With over 20 years of experience, Pugh's Earthworks specializes in delivering professional landscape and monthly lawn maintenance programs for retail and office clients in our service area. We started as a very small operation, with a hand full of employees and a few pieces of equipment. Today, we operate 5 landscape offices, spread throughout Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas. We put together this photo gallery of landscape and grounds maintenance projects that we have handled for retail and office facilities. It should provide you with a chance to view the types of projects we handle. Click here to learn more about our services for retail shopping centers and office complexes. One type of business that counts on creating an inviting look to keep customers around for awhile is shopping centers. Retail centers want to encourage customers to stay as long as possible and enjoy the shopping experience. The first impression customers get when they visit a Retail or Office center is so important. It will directly impact the experience they will have with the retailers located at that shopping center. Creating an upscale look through your landscape can invite these customers to continue coming back. Adding such amenities as comfortable seating, fountains, beautiful floral displays or unique drought-resistant plant areas provides enjoyment, interest and ambiance. Hardscaping is also an important part of making a great first impression with retail landscaping design. Landscaping and lawn maintenance for retail shopping centers is one of our specialties at Pugh's Earthworks. We understand how to provide a design and maintenance service that addresses daily traffic and “wear and tear.” We take care of many popular shopping centers and commercial office properties in the five markets we serve.  We feel honored and proud to be part of keeping these centers beautiful. Please contact Pugh's Earthworks if you are a Retail Shopping Center or Office Complex owner and want your property to stand out from the rest.   The Pugh's Earthworks management team started out small and with little experience. With hard work, dedication and the strong will to succeed, the three brothers have created a superior and well run commercial landscaping company. From the management team to the most junior landscape technician, we are committed to being the most trusted and results oriented landscaping company in the markets we serve.  Every aspect of the business is taken seriously from hiring, ongoing training, equipment investment and certification/licensing.  Pugh's Earthworks does not cut corners with staffing, equipment and hiring of vendors to help the company stand out. It is this dedication and commitment to quality that keeps [...]

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