Both outdoor fireplaces and fire pits make excellent central features and provide perfect spaces to enjoy the warmth of a fire during winter or the refreshing open air of a fall evening. Both also have the capacity to be either gas or wood fueled, and may even be a combination of the two. The real decision of which to install comes down to dynamics of the landscape as well as personal needs and preference. Here are some points to help you decide which of the two is better for your Dutchess County, NY backyard.

As our Hudson Valley evenings become cooler and nightfall inches earlier and earlier, you may be left longing for the long summer days outdoors. Luckily, you need not retreat back into your house at the first sign of reddening leaves this fall. Here are some handy hints to help you better prepare your backyard for the colder months ahead so you can continue to enjoy your outdoors spaces even as the temperature begins to drop.

Retaining walls can be used for number of different purposes in your Dutchess County, NY landscaping. Whether it’s taming a slope to free up more useable space, preventing soil erosion, or using terracing to create an aesthetic sloping yard on a hillside, be sure to make the most of your investment by following these helpful tips!

Apart from the obvious elements of your Dutchess County, NY property that are most visible from the street - the roof, front door and siding - some quality landscaping and hardscaping can go a long way in improving the curb appeal of your home. Below are a few ideas to create a welcoming first impression that captures the attention of potential buyers and visitors alike.

Constructing a pool is a major investment, which is why it’s necessary not to leave even the smallest details unattended. While poolside plants might be the last design attribute on your list, they actually bring considerable impact to your outdoor space. Upgrade your pool’s enjoyment factor by selecting the perfect poolside plants for a stay-cation worthy oasis, any day of the week.

Your patio’s flooring literally sets the foundation for your outdoor space, which is why it is essential to hire the right landscaping company to install it. A variety of factors can decrease patio flooring life such as seasonal weather patterns, average annual rainfall, amount of foot traffic, and food and beverage spills. Not all patios are built the same, so you should work with a professional to achieve beautiful, long-lasting results. Here’s how to avoid choosing the wrong landscaping company so you can maximize your patio flooring life.

A hilly property can pose numerous challenges to homeowners who desire a certain aesthetic. An uneven yard can seem awkward, unruly, and is often difficult to mow. With a little creativity and planning, however, you can transform your Dutchess County sloping yard into a masterpiece! Use these hillside landscaping tips to bring out the best in your property.

Gorgeous, abundant sunshine can cast a complementary glow over your landscape. Too much sun exposure, however, is detrimental to your health and open air enjoyment, as well as the strength of your yard’s shade-loving plants. Luckily, getting more shade in your backyard is easily achievable with natural and man-made methods. Protect yourself and your landscape for long-lasting outdoor satisfaction, no matter how sunny or hot it gets.

We've all heard that a patio area can increase your living area, but not all patios are made equal. And not all patios actually provide more living areas. A poorly designed and built patio can discourage use and deter people from enjoying the space. Here are some easy guidelines to follow to make sure you get the most from your Dutchess County patio!

Landscaping for an entire family can be tricky: how do you create a fun, safe backyard for kids without sacrificing aesthetics nor that spot in your yard you’ve sectioned off for a new wet bar? From jungle-like play structures to elegant pool areas, the landscaping options for a wide age range are nearly endless. Still, there are plenty of backyard features the whole family can enjoy together, as well as strategic ways to designate kid and adult zones while maintaining safety, functionality, and design continuity. With conscientious planning, it’s possible to use landscaping to make the whole family happy.

An irrigation system is a smart way to save time, money, and minimize water waste, as well as provide conveniences you soon won’t want to live without. Whether your yard is large or small, an automated sprinkler or drip configuration will strengthen your grass and garden more efficiently than any other watering system. The benefits of an irrigation system for your landscaping in your home in the Poughquag, NY area are numerous, and may make investing in one worth it for you.

Having neighbors in close proximity to your Dutchess County home can be a wonderful thing, but it doesn’t guarantee privacy when you need it most. While fences and other architectural structures secure privacy, their hard lines and artificial cleanliness are, for some, less than ideal for everyday viewing. Plantings, on the other hand, offer a variety of textures, colors, and fragrances that cycle with each passing season. Follow these tips to keep both peeping onlookers and visual boredom at bay.

Sustainable landscape designs create value for homeowners as well as potential renters and buyers. From reducing costs and waste to increasing the overall health of the community, native plants provide entertainment and help increase property values. They attract attention and encourage explorations. Well-designed, sustainable sites make the best possible use of local materials and enhance the natural contour and style of the property. They protect area plant species and encourage their growth and development.

A healthy tree isn’t just about looks, it’s also about safety. While a healthy tree will improve the exterior appearance of your home; a damaged, diseased or dying tree will do more than affect the look of your landscape. A tree that is unhealthy can topple over, which creates a safety issue for your home and your family. Furthermore, an unhealthy tree is the perfect environment for unwanted and potentially dangerous pests, such as bees and snakes. Thankfully, you can take preventive measures to help ensure every tree in your yard is healthy and well-maintained.

Mulch is the icing on the cake of a beautifully landscaped yard. At first glance, mulching your garden planting beds may seem as simple as spreading layers of organic material. While it is not a difficult process, there are some things you should know about how to use mulch, and how not to use it, that can save your plants from an early demise and keep your property looking great the entire year.

Outdoor lighting has endless benefits for us Dutchess County residents. From more quality time outdoors, to safety, and even the incredible difference in your home’s beauty, outdoor lighting is an obvious landscaping essential.

Need help with landscape ideas? Where are here to help you.

Today’s backyards serve as a valuable living space. From providing fruits and vegetables to recreation and accommodation, your back door can function on all levels with a bit of thought and careful design. Here are six ideas to help make sure you get the most from your landscaping!