As the drought continues, the challenges of maintaining a lush, green turfgrass increase. Higher water costs and water restrictions force the reevaluation of turfgrass areas. Many Arizona municipalities offer incentives for turf removal projects, and public perceptions regarding turfgrass are shifting. Turfgrass conversion involves replacing areas of turfgrass with artificial turf or drought-resistant lower water using plant materials while maintaining an attractive landscape.

Brought to you by the National Association of Landscape Professionals. Landscape crews and other horticultural employees who work outdoors on wet, muddy, and uneven terrain are at high risk of slip and trip injuries. Often, these injuries occur at job sites, but they can also occur indoors, especially when “good housekeeping” isn’t a high priority. Slips and trips may result in broken bones, sprains, concussions, or other costly and painful injuries.

The past few months' weather conditions have reminded us of the importance and benefits of Sustainable Landscape Management® practices. Now that the temperatures are at least ten degrees lower and humidity has increased, we are seeing many plants and trees responding with new growth. If these summer conditions continue every year, the best way to prevent plant stress is to prepare before they arrive.

The markings you see painted on the ground are required by law. They play an important role in protecting excavators from life-threatening injuries and preventing damage to the vital utilities we all rely on every day. Still, every effort is made to keep the markings to a minimum in neighborhoods and on paved surfaces. Damage to underground facilities can cause far-reaching consequences, from serious injury and environmental damage to the loss of vital services we depend upon including electricity, gas, telephones and mobile devices, water and sewer services.

To overseed or not to overseed? That is the question. In the Phoenix valley of the sun and other parts of Arizona, we are blessed (or cursed?!) with this decision each year as summer starts to wane. Recent declared water shortages, restrictions on new lawns, and higher water costs have brought turfgrass in general under scrutiny, and overseeding is part of the conversation. Here are some pros and cons of overseeding to consider in order to make the best decision for your outdoor space.