In the heartland region of Minnesota and the Wisconsin border area, where the chill of winter is felt deeply, fire features become not only a backyard luxury but also a warm necessity. There’s no denying the allure of a crackling fire, dancing against the backdrop of a crisp evening. Whether it’s a gathering around a fire pit sharing stories or seeking the solitary warmth of a backyard fireplace with a book in hand, fire features have become central in outdoor landscape design. In this article, we’ll delve into landscaping tips and design ideas to seamlessly incorporate fire features, such as ..read more

When landscaping in Minnesota, one of the most crucial decisions homeowners face is selecting the right trees. Trees, after all, are long-term investments. They provide shade, enhance property value, and can even serve as windbreaks or privacy screens. Given Minnesota’s unique climate and diverse ecosystems, opting for native trees ensures they will not only thrive but also support local wildlife and ecology. Let’s dig into native tree varieties suited for Minnesota’s weather and explore planting tips to foster growth and health. The Advantages of Native Trees in Minnesota Before diving into s ..read more

Minnesota’s diverse climate and unique ecosystem make it a haven for a variety of native plants, from tall, sturdy trees to vibrant flowering plants. Designing a garden around these native species doesn’t just give you a gorgeous landscape but also contributes to local biodiversity, ensuring the survival of plants that are naturally equipped to thrive in the region. Let’s delve into the beauty of native plants in Minnesota and introduce you to some of the best trees, shrubs, and flowers to breathe life into your garden. Why Choose Native Plants? The advantages of going native in your garden ar ..read more

Your front yard serves as the first impression of your home, and a well-designed landscape can significantly enhance its curb appeal. When it comes to adding texture, visual interest, and a touch of natural beauty to your front yard, rocks, and mulch are versatile materials that can make a big impact. Let’s showcase some front yard landscaping ideas with rocks and mulch, including tips on choosing the right rocks and creating a cohesive design. Get ready to transform your front yard into a stunning showcase that will turn heads in your neighborhood. Create Natural Rock Borders Use rocks to cre ..read more

Proper drainage is essential for maintaining a dry and healthy home. When it comes to effective drainage solutions, two popular options are French drains and trench drains. Each has its own advantages and considerations, making it important for homeowners to understand the differences between them. French Drains: The Time-Tested Solution A French drain is a versatile and widely used drainage system that effectively manages excess water by redirecting it away from your property. It consists of a perforated pipe wrapped in a fabric sleeve, surrounded by gravel or rock. Here are the key aspects t ..read more

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, creating a peaceful sanctuary in our own backyard has become increasingly important. One way to achieve a serene ambiance is by incorporating water fountains into small backyard landscapes. Not only do water fountains add a touch of elegance and tranquility, but they also offer numerous benefits for relaxation and stress relief. Explore the advantages of backyard landscaping with water fountains, and learn how to choose the perfect fountain for your space and style. Benefits of Backyard Landscaping with Water Fountains Water fountains have a remarkable ..read more

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, creating a peaceful sanctuary in our own backyard has become increasingly important. One way to achieve a serene ambiance is by incorporating water fountains into small backyard landscapes. Not only do water fountains add a touch of elegance and tranquility, but they also offer numerous benefits for relaxation and stress relief. Explore the advantages of adding water fountains to small backyards, design ideas, and tips on choosing the perfect fountain for your space and style. Benefits of Backyard Landscaping with Water Fountains Water fountains have a ..read more

Sloped yards can pose a landscaping challenge for homeowners. Erosion is a common problem, as water runs downhill and carries away soil. Fortunately, retaining walls offer a solution while also creating visual interest and functional outdoor living spaces. Let’s explore some practical and creative ideas for retaining walls in sloped yards, including tips for how to prevent erosion, create multiple levels, and incorporate plants. Retaining Wall Ideas for a Sloped Backyard A sloped backyard can be transformed into a beautiful outdoor living space with the addition of retaining walls. There are m ..read more

If you’re looking to add some greenery to your fence line in Minnesota, you’ve got plenty of options. Here are some of the best plants for your fence line that are suited to Minnesota’s climate and soil conditions: Arborvitae Arborvitae is a popular choice for fence lines because it’s tall, narrow, and evergreen, providing year-round privacy. It’s also easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. Juniper Juniper is another evergreen shrub that’s great for fence lines. It’s drought-tolerant, low-maintenance, and can grow in a variety of soil types. Plus, it adds a lovely textur ..read more

While other seasons boast a vibrant array of colors and textures, winter can appear quite dull–most plants become dormant during the colder months leaving behind a monochrome landscape with white, grey, and brown hues dominating. But don’t let this stop you from having an eye-catching garden even in the depths of winter–it’s totally possible to wow onlookers without sacrificing all that cozy hibernation time for your beloved greenery. Here are some of our favorite ideas for sprucing up your winter landscape: Include Winter-Tolerant Plants Look for evergreen shrubs, trees, and other perennials ..read more