As attractive and graceful as deer are in the wild, they can wreak havoc in cultivated Dutchess County, NY backyards. We're here to the rescue to make sure you keep the usually-friendly deer away from your property.

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.

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.

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.

Ah, the great lawn debate. Whether striving to preserve your perfect lawn or struggling to cut yours into top shape, making a decision between hiring a professional mowing service and doing it yourself is inevitable. Your lawn is the everyday face you show to the world, so take into account the following factors when choosing between hiring a professional lawn service and mowing yourself.

Ah, weeds. One of the most common and seemingly unavoidable homeowners’ predicaments. Sometimes, it can feel like a mystery why one lawn is entirely free of weeds, while the neighbor next door struggles constantly with unruly and invasive plant species. Luckily, lawn experts have narrowed down the top reasons why your lawn has weeds and how to prevent them.

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.

While most Dutchess County, NY homeowners dream of a beautiful, lush, and green lawn, it's often a never-ending battle for one. As soon as you feel that you've finally achieved your green-as-can-be-grass, there is another grass killer in sight.  Occasionally, this could mean it's time for a new lawn, while other times, it's simply a treat and maintain plan to bring back the grass health. Here are the top dream lawn killers to keep an eye out. Here's to wishing everyone a beautiful lawn this year!

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.