Services Summary

Grounds by Design — Fine Landscapes. For over twenty years, I have developed my landscape expertise to include: design, installation, maintenance, consulting, and photography services. Among the general projects that we can provide are: wildflower meadow establishment, stonework installation, rock gardens, planting bed establishment, woodland and formal plantings, lawn and lawn alternative installation, landscape restoration and maintenance, and landscape consulting. I also provide landscape photography for personal and professional purposes, horticultural writing, and workshops on horticultural practices.

The process of undertaking landscape work best begins with a walk-around at the site. At this time, in addition to viewing the property for the projects to be done, many aspects are discussed. These include: current and expected uses of the site; ideal desired changes; plants that the client enjoys and might be installed; any hardscape such as walkways, terraces, or walls; viewing perspectives from inside the home and other on-site buildings and structures; general and detailed functional requirements of the landscape; capability of the client to maintain the landscape; possible client hands-on role in the project; and possible costs to enact the changes and maintain them. At this time the client and I develop an initial action plan which can include: an early cost estimate, project scheduling, time frame for completion, and the basics of what the project will entail. During the project, I regularly connect with the client so that they are kept aware of progress. It is my expectation that the client appreciates this connection and will communicate concerns and thoughts of their own as well. I am available via cell phone and email.

Design

Within a design or plan, attention will be paid to the following aspects: the maturation of the plants installed, texture and color schemes, non-plant features (stonework such as walks, walls, terraces, sculpture, fencing, trellises), current and future use, maintenance needs, and the time and expense to bring it all together.

In addition to the aspects that make the finished landscape, others must first be considered. These include: the existing grade and topography, existing and possible future buildings and structures, septic location, climate patterns, soil conditions. By discussing these various elements along with the client's desires, we will develop a landscape that will be sustainable and appealing for many years to come.

Horticultural Knowledge

Horticultural knowledge is the ability to identify and cultivate a broad range of relevant plant material and the best uses for those plants. Having a working knowledge of this plant material is essential because not all plants thrive in similar growing conditions. Developing healthy and proper soil for a given planting also is key to their vitality. After these conditions are met, adequately maintaining your plantings and overall landscape, ensures that it will continue to thrive.

Matt Giroux
Grounds by Design — Fine Landscapes