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Author: Petalon Landscape

Expert Advice: How to Care for Artificial Turf

Top 5 Tips for Artificial Lawn Maintenance

Unlock the secret to a beautiful lawn with Petalon Landscape Management’s guide to artificial turf care. Our specialists have spent years perfecting the art of synthetic lawn maintenance, and now we’re sharing that knowledge with you. From routine rinses to spot-cleaning strategies, we’ll show you how to care for your turf and keep it in top condition, so you can enjoy a flawless landscape with minimal effort.

Is Synthetic Turf Maintenance Difficult?

Not at all! One of the standout features of artificial turf is that it is easy to maintain. With just a few simple tools, you can keep your lawn looking its best. A leaf blower, push broom, or plastic rake will help you remove leaves and debris. For regular cleaning, a hose is all you need to clean the surface, while a power washer is perfect for tackling more stubborn stains.

5 Key Steps for Turf Care

  1. Keep your turf clear: Like natural lawns, artificial turf will collect organic debris that can trap moisture and lead to damage. Luckily, it is easy to clean up leaves and branches with a blower, broom, or plastic rake before they cause damage.
  • Give occasional rinses: Although artificial turf doesn’t need water for growth, it benefits from occasional rinsing. A simple spray from the garden hose can wash away dirt and pollen that can dull the appearance of its blades. For areas with pets, frequent rinsing can help wash away urine and prevent odors from becoming a problem.
  • Pro tip: Solid pet waste should be removed from your lawn as soon as possible. This will prevent stains and odors from harming your lawn.
  • Spot clean when necessary: Your artificial turf will encounter spills and bird droppings that can stain its surface if left unattended. Prompt spot cleaning is important in these situations. To remove stubborn stains, you can use water, a mild detergent, and a sponge to prevent them from becoming permanent. Follow this with a thorough rinse to remove any soap residue.
  • Don’t let weeds take hold: Even though artificial turf is designed to be weed-resistant; some pesky invaders may still find their way through. It is important to quickly pull weeds, so they don’t spread or become deeply rooted.
  • Pro tip: Applying a pre-emergent weed control treatment will create an invisible barrier that prevents weeds from sprouting on your turf.
  • Consult professionals when needed: You may encounter stubborn stains or worn patches that detract from your turf’s appearance. If this happens, seek professional help from trusted turf maintenance services. They can thoroughly clean these areas and, if necessary, replace damaged sections.
  • Pro tip: For tough stains like oil or paint, professionals may use specialized cleaning products that can treat the area without damaging the surrounding turf.

Keep Your Artificial Turf Looking New with Petalon Landscape Management

Maintaining a vibrant artificial lawn is simple with Petalon Landscape Management by your side. Our lawn care services are fully customizable to cater to the unique needs of your artificial turf. We also offer routine maintenance plans that are designed to keep your turf in prime condition year-round.

Not sure how to care for artificial turf? Contact Petalon Landscape Management at 408-453-3998. We provide artificial turf installation, repair, and maintenance to homeowners and businesses in Morgan Hill, San Jose, Palo Alto, and Santa Clara.

How to Prepare Your Lawn for Spring

5 Spring Landscaping Tips for Lush Lawns

Spring is just around the corner, and that means it’s the perfect time to give your yard some attention. Taking care of your lawn now will prevent pests and stubborn weeds from taking hold. Plus, it’s the first step to getting that thick, green grass that’s great for summer barbecues and backyard games. In this guide, we will show you how to prepare your lawn for spring and keep it healthy in the months ahead.

Why is Spring Lawn Care Important?

Think of spring as a wake-up call for your grass. It’s the time when it shifts from winter dormancy to active growth. Spring lawn care is important as it sets the foundation for a healthy landscape during the rest of the year. By taking the right steps as the season changes, you’re setting up your yard to handle the summer sun and all the fun outdoor activities that come with it.

How to Prepare Your Lawn for Spring in 5 Easy Steps

If you are wondering how to prepare your landscape for spring, we have some useful tips for you. Follow these steps to get your lawn spring-ready by promoting healthy new growth:

  1. Clean up: Start by clearing away any leaves, twigs, and debris that have collected over the winter. This not only tidies up your yard but also prevents pests, mold, and bacteria from establishing and harming your plants.
  2. Dethatch your lawn: Thatch is a layer of dead grass that can build up on your soil preventing water, air, and nutrients from reaching the roots of your grass. You can use a specialized dethatching rake or a powered dethatcher to remove this layer.
    • Pro tip: While springtime is a great time for lawn renewal, it is important to only work on your grass if the soil is dry. Walking on wet soil can compact the earth, making it difficult for plants to absorb water and nutrients.
  3. Remove weeds: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds from taking hold in your lawn. For existing weeds, you can use a post-emergent herbicide or remove them by pulling from the roots.
  4. Remove weeds: Apply a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent weeds from taking hold in your lawn. For existing weeds, you can use a post-emergent herbicide or remove them by pulling from the roots.
  5. Fertilize: Spring is a good time to fertilize your landscape to promote robust growth in the coming months. Be sure to select a fertilizer that is appropriate for your species of grass.
    • Pro tip: Soil pH affects nutrient availability. Test your soil’s pH level; if it’s too acidic, amending it with lime can promote healthy root development.

Petalon is Here to Help You Prepare Your Landscape for Spring

Need help preparing your lawn for spring? Petalon Landscape Management offers top-notch lawn care services for commercial properties looking to improve the appearance of their landscapes. Our team offers maintenance plans to nurture your lawn to its most vibrant state this spring, and throughout the year.

Contact Petalon Landscape Management at 408-453-3998. We provide landscape maintenance, fertilization, and lawn care services that keep your commercial landscape healthy and attractive year-round.

Can My Trees Get Too Much Rain?

Protect Your Trees from Overwatering with This Guide

Rain is vital for tree growth and health. However, too much rain can be damaging for your green friends. Prolonged or intense rainfall can lead to problems that may stunt a tree’s growth, damage their root systems, make them physically unstable, and create environments that welcome pests and diseases. “Can my trees get too much rain?” If this is a question weighing on your mind, keep reading.

How Much Rain is Too Much?

This question can be hard to answer because trees have varying water requirements based on their biological makeup. For instance, oak trees have deep root systems that make them resistant to overwatering, compared to maple varieties that have shallow roots and require well-drained soil to thrive.

The good news is that a few days of rainfall typically won’t be a problem. However, issues may arise when soil becomes waterlogged, eliminating air pockets that are needed to provide oxygen to tree roots.

  • Pro tip: Consulting a certified arborist can help you determine irrigation needs for your trees and whether you have enough drainage to safeguard against heavy rainfall.

Why is Waterlogged Soil Harmful for Trees?

Tree roots submerged for extended periods lack oxygen and become susceptible to root rot, which impairs their ability to absorb essential nutrients. Additionally, roots weakened by excessive water are less effective at anchoring the tree, increasing the risk of uprooting during heavy winds. This can create a dangerous situation for nearby structures and people.

  • Pro tip: Signs of an overwatered tree include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and an overall decline in health.

What Can I Do to Protect My Trees After Heavy Rain?

Maintaining tree health requires balanced watering practices, especially in areas experiencing heavy rainfall. To safeguard your trees from overwatering, consider the following strategies:

  • Avoid irrigating after rain: Before watering or fertilizing, use a moisture meter to check if the soil is dry.
  • Pro tip: A smart irrigation controller will automatically adjust watering schedules based on soil moisture levels and inclement weather conditions.
  • Consult an arborist: A certified arborist can assess your tree species and soil conditions to develop a safe irrigation schedule.
  • Improve drainage: Installing a custom drainage system can help protect your trees from rot by preventing water from gathering around their roots.

Need help protecting your trees from too much rain? Contact Petalon Landscape Management at 408-453-3998. We provide tree maintenance and drainage installation services to keep your commercial landscape attractive and safe.

An Overview of California’s New Law on Artificial Grass

In recent years, property owners in drought-stricken areas have turned to artificial lawns as a low maintenance alternative to natural grass. However, new legislation in California is allowing jurisdictions to ban the use of some artificial turf surfaces due to the growing health concerns about forever chemicals. Our lawncare team at Petalon Landscape Management urges property owners and managers to be aware of the new law banning artificial grass in California.

Navigating California’s Legal Landscape for Artificial Grass

It’s important to note that this new California law doesn’t outright ban artificial grass, but it grants cities and municipalities the authority to limit their use. Millbrae and San Marino have already implemented bans on fake grass installations, possibly paving the way for other municipalities to follow suit. However, you can consider lawn replacements and other landscaping techniques that offer low-maintenance beauty without the risk of environmental harm:

  • Eco-friendly artificial grass: Manufacturers are introducing non-toxic infills like sand or cork that replace synthetic crumb rubber in their artificial grass. These materials offer the benefits of artificial turf without the use of harmful chemicals.
  • Before choosing a product, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the local laws and restrictions for artificial grass in your area. This ensures that you are in compliance with the specific guidelines set by your locality.
  • Hardscaping: Decorative stone pathways surrounded by native shrubs, perennials, and wildflowers create natural spaces without the need for regular irrigation.
  • Native trees: Native trees thrive in the local climate and can provide beautiful shady areas for commercial properties. Explore these low maintenance tree species in California.
  • Drought-tolerant grass varieties: Buffalo grass and Bermuda grass require less water than traditional lawns and can thrive with smart irrigation control systems.

Why Are Some Artificial Grass Surfaces Banned?

Numerous studies link long-term exposure to PFAS (polyfluoroalkyl substances) and other chemicals like BPA and PFOA to serious health issues such as cancer and developmental delays in children. Unfortunately, until recently, most manufacturers used to rely on these materials to mimic the look and feel of traditional grass.

To address these concerns, California’s new law requires property owners to adhere to specific guidelines when installing artificial grass on their properties. You can take proactive steps to navigate these new regulations effectively:

  • Research your options: When considering artificial grass for your property, look for turf products that meet California’s standards for safety and recyclability. Many manufacturers are now making artificial turf that does not contain harmful forever chemicals.
  • Consult local authorities: Reach out to local authorities or municipal offices to understand specific regulations in your area. Rules may vary between regions, so staying informed is essential to creating a landscape that is both beautiful, safe, and compliant with the new law banning specific types of artificial grass in California.

  • Expert installation: Hiring an experienced landscape management company can help you find eco-friendly solutions for drought-tolerant landscaping. We can help you choose compliant products and ensure that your artificial grass installation meets legal standards.

Enhance your Bay Area commercial landscape with artificial grass and drought-tolerant lawn alternatives that comply with the latest legislation. Call Petalon today at 408-453-3998 or contact us online for artificial grass installation.

Key Insights: The Real Cost of a Natural Lawn vs. Artificial Turf

When to Install Residential or Commercial Synthetic Turf

Look beyond the initial installation cost of artificial turf versus natural grass if you want a comprehensive cost comparison. It’s important to factor in the utility, equipment, and maintenance expenses of a natural lawn before you make a final decision. Synthetic turf lasts longer and maintains its original beauty with little care required. It often makes sense to install it in high traffic areas on your residential or commercial property.

Petalon Landscape Management, Inc. offers expert installation of artificial turf in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto. Our lawn care team is available to answer your questions about the real cost of a natural lawn versus artificial turf.

How Much Does a Natural Lawn Cost?

Remember that natural grass requires constant care and maintenance. You’ll need to invest in a lawn mower, trimmer, and other equipment to keep it tidy and neat. Here’s a closer look at the various expenses associated with planting and sustaining a natural lawn:

  • Installation and maintenance costs: You’ll need to buy grass seed, fertilizer, weedkiller, and pesticides, which can cost around $1,000 every year, depending on the size of your lawn.
  • Water and gas/electricity: Watering your lawn may cost around $200 a month, again, depending on the size of your property and the efficiency of your irrigation system. You’ll need to power your gas or electric lawn equipment too, and that can cost another $100 or more.
  • Equipment costs: After you install artificial turf, you don’t have to mow or trim it. Large riding mowers and other equipment can cost thousands of dollars. It may be cheaper to invest in landscape maintenance services if you choose to install natural grass. Don’t forget that you’ll need rakes, hoes, and other equipment if you decide to handle lawn care on your own.

How Does the Cost of Artificial Turf Compare?

Artificial turf typically costs more to install than a natural lawn. However, there are many advantages for property owners looking to save money on lawn care. Here are just a few of the ways you’ll save money with synthetic turf:

  • No need to mow or trim artificial turf
  • You won’t have to fertilize or reseed your grass every year
  • It’s easy to hose down your artificial turf to keep it clean and beautiful
  • You won’t need an irrigation system or thousands of gallons of water to keep your lawn green and lush
  • You also won’t need lawn mowers and other equipment, which can be expensive to store and maintain

Why Should You Install Artificial Turf Instead of a Natural Lawn?

There are many good reasons for installing artificial turf in a commercial or residential property. It’s a great alternative to natural grass when it comes to children’s play areas and dog runs, and you can also use artificial turf for backyard sports fields and putting greens. If you want to maintain a flawless front lawn, incorporate artificial turf into your landscaping design.  

Commercial synthetic turf provides flexible flooring and surface options for property managers and owners too. Whether you want to create an indoor oasis, durable sports field, or unique indoor-outdoor space, we can help you choose the right artificial turf for your needs.

Contact us today to discuss the real cost of a natural lawn vs. artificial turf.Call Petalon at 408-453-3998 for synthetic turf installation and maintenance in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto.

Pro Tips to Preserve Artificial Turf During Colder Months

Protect and Maintain Your Synthetic Grass this Winter

Artificial turf can last up to 15 years when properly cared for. It also holds up well under harsh weather conditions such as frigid winter temperatures. Additionally, artificial turf stays green year round. However, it’s important to take certain precautions to safeguard your synthetic lawn, ensuring that it will remain clean and beautiful in every season. Our team has put together a few tips to help you care for artificial turf during colder months.

Petalon Landscape Management, Inc. installs artificial turf in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto.

How Can You Safeguard Your Artificial Turf in Cold Weather?

Start by gathering the tools you’ll need to safely clear away fallen debris without damaging the blades or base of your synthetic grass. Start by inspecting the nails you used to secure your lawn. Replace any missing or damaged nails or other fasteners. Next, gather the tools you’ll need to maintain your yard safely, including:

  • Soft broom
  • Plastic shovel (don’t use metal shovels on artificial turf)
  • Hose and gentle cleaner
  • Leaf blower with slower speeds

Artificial Grass Winter Maintenance Tips

Do you want to enjoy a pristine, green lawn through the winter and into next spring? Follow these tips for artificial turf during colder months:

  1. Remove debris and litter. Clean up leaves, twigs, branches, and other debris before the mercury drops. That way, you won’t have to worry about stains and damage caused by the occasional frost or a dusting of snow.
  2. Tidy the turf. Next, hose down your artificial lawn. Removing dirt and grime regularly can prevent buildup and damage. For best results, use a mild detergent on spills and stains. If you have kids or pets that regularly use the lawn, you’ll want to do this at least once a month.
  3. Revive the grass blades. Using a broom with soft bristles, you can fluff up flattened blades. This maintenance step can produce a fresh-looking lawn you can enjoy in the springtime.
  4. Mind your step. If possible, avoid overuse of your lawn if the temperatures fall below freezing. Cold weather can make the blades brittle, causing them to break off when you step on them.
  5. Don’t use a metal shovel. Plastic shovels are much gentler on your artificial lawn than metal ones. For light dustings of snow, consider allowing the snow to melt on its own.

Contact us today for more tips for artificial turf during colder months.Call Petalon at 408-453-3998 to get a free quote for synthetic turf installation or replacement in San Jose, Santa Clara, Gilroy and Morgan Hill (South Bay), Hayward, Fremont, Pleasanton, San Mateo, Redwood City, and Palo Alto.

7 Reasons to Make Commercial Tree Care a Part of Your Landscape Services

Maintain Vibrant, Healthy Trees on Your Property

Trees are a valuable asset for any commercial landscape, particularly in urban settings. They provide privacy and relief from the noise and activity of urban life. People enjoy the beauty of flowering trees, the shade of large trees, the variety of birds flocking to fruit trees, and many more advantages of these gentle giants on your property. To ensure they grow strong, stay disease and pest-free, and remain healthy overall, make commercial tree care a part of your landscape services.    

Our team at Petalon Landscape Management works with a local network of ISA certified arborists to provide a variety of arbor care services, such as pruning, trimming, stump removal and grinding, and pest and disease control. We also offer comprehensive tree inventories and arborist reports to assess tree health and liability risk. Condominiums, HOAs, city spaces, apartment complexes, corporate campuses, schools, and estates across the Bay Area rely on us for cost-effective, customer-friendly commercial tree care services.

Why Include Commercial Tree Care in Your Landscape Services

Many property owners and managers hire landscape services to ensure top notch care for their large lawns, seasonal flower planting, and often, to seek effective drought tolerant landscaping ideas. In addition, you can make commercial tree care a part of regular landscape services for your office building, commercial complex, or retail property.

Here are the top 7 reasons why outsourcing your tree care to the talented team at Petalon makes sense.

  1. Disease prevention: Prompt treatment can often save sick trees and prevent the spread of disease. It’s equally important to remove unhealthy trees that are at risk of falling and pose a danger to other trees, buildings, or the public.
  2. Pest control: Your commercial tree care package can be designed to include integrated pest management. Our team will monitor your trees for signs of infestation and take the appropriate steps to safeguard their health.
  3. Tree removal: Although we do all we can to save every tree, it’s not always possible. We have access to advanced equipment to safely remove trees even from the most problematic locations on your property.
  4. Bracing and support: Let our team give damaged trees the help they need to recover from a lightning strike or storm damage.
  5. Pruning: As part of your annual arbor care maintenance, we recommend pruning your trees while they’re dormant. This can prevent dead branches from blocking the light required for new growth.
  6. Stump removal: After removing a tree, you may be left with an unattractive stump. Our team is trained in expert stump grinding and removal services to prepare the space for landscaping improvements.
  7. Tree planting: Planting new trees is good for the planet and good for your property. Let our arborists recommend drought resistant species to beautify your property without wasting water.

Whether your property is full of thriving trees, or you need assistance with pest management and tree removal, you can trust us for comprehensive arbor care services.

Contact us today to make commercial tree care part of your landscape services in Redwood City, San Mateo, Hayward, and San Ramon. Call Petalon at 408-453-3998.

Full-Service Commercial Tree Care in East Bay

Trained Arborists Serving Livermore, Pleasanton, and Dublin

Discover the transformative power of well-maintained trees to elevate your commercial property’s value and visual appeal. With professional arbor care, you can create an inviting space that reflects eco-conscious practices and makes smart business sense. Petalon Landscape Management, Inc. is a trusted provider of commercial tree care in the East Bay area. We have extensive experience providing arbor care to corporate campuses, H.O.A. communities, retail complexes, apartments, and municipalities.

Reliable Services for Year-Round Commercial Tree Care

Our team of dedicated commercial tree care specialists collaborates closely with a local network of ISA-certified arborists. Together, we offer the following range of services tailored to maintain the long-term health and vitality of your commercial landscape.

  • Tree selection: We specialize in creating drought-tolerant landscapes that thrive in the East Bay climate. We will help you select trees that are aesthetically pleasing, low-maintenance, and require minimal watering.
  • Tree planting: Our precise tree planting techniques consider soil conditions, proper depth, and appropriate spacing, promoting healthy growth and long-term sustainability.
  • Tree relocation, removal, and stump removal: With safe and efficient tree relocation and removal services, you can improve the overall form and function of your East Bay commercial landscape. Our experienced crew also takes care of stump removal.
  • Tree maintenance: Carefully scheduled tree pruning, staking, and deep root fertilization, ensures the optimal growth and vitality of your trees.
  • Integrated pest control management: We diagnose and treat common pests and diseases, safeguarding the long-term health and survival of the trees and plants in your landscape.
  • Sick tree care: With guidance from certified arborists, our experts can nurse your sick trees back to health.
  • Sustainable landscaping solutions: We offer solutions that are good for the environment and your bottom line. For example, smart irrigation systems can help you conserve water and ensure the health of your trees.

Improve Your East Bay Commercial Landscape with Professional Help

At Petalon Landscape Management, Inc., we take great pride in our commitment to enhancing the commercial landscapes across the East Bay area. With our expertise and passion for creating sustainable environments, we strive to contribute to the overall beauty and appeal of your development land or commercial property. We offer commercial tree care services to property owners and managers throughout Livermore, Pleasanton, and Dublin.

Ready to enhance the appearance and value of your property with beautiful trees? Give us a call at 408-453-3998 to learn more about our commercial tree care services in East Bay or contact us online.

5 Things to Consider When Getting Artificial Grass

Select the Right Grass and Hire Expert Installers

Commercial property owners and managers across the Bay Area are recognizing artificial turf as an attractive, economical, and easy-to-maintain landscaping solution. To maximize the benefits and longevity of your artificial grass, make an informed choice and bring in experienced professionals for installation. Read on to learn the top five things to consider when getting artificial grass for your commercial property.

Key Considerations for Installing Artificial Grass

Choosing an artificial turf system for your commercial, public, or estate property offers numerous advantages compared to natural grass. By selecting the right product for your lawn, you can lower maintenance expenses and enjoy year-round aesthetic appeal.

Petalon Landscape Management, Inc. is a trusted name for artificial grass installations in the Bay Area. Our team of landscaping professionals advises that you consider the following when getting artificial grass for your commercial or development properties:

  1. Durability: Choose an artificial grass variety that is designed to withstand the effects of heavy foot traffic and the weather. Look for a product that uses UV inhibitors to protect the turf from fading and sun damage.
  2. Safety: Select grass that provides a stable and slip-free surface for your building occupants and visitors. Ensure wheelchair-friendly accessibility by creating a smooth surface for easy navigation.
  3. Maintenance: Consider the level of landscape maintenance required for different artificial turf surfaces. To minimize maintenance costs, select a product with features such as self-cleaning and antimicrobial materials.
  4. Drainage: Proper drainage is essential to prevent puddles or waterlogged areas on your grass. A well-designed drainage system can improve performance and increase longevity for your artificial turf.
  5. Local regulations: Familiarize yourself with local regulations and obtain the necessary approvals or permits. Ensure compliance with zoning regulations and building codes before installing your artificial grass.

Experienced Artificial Grass Installation and Maintenance

Artificial grass can save you time and money by eliminating the need for regular mowing, watering, and fertilizing. However, it does have a higher upfront cost than a natural lawn. To ensure your artificial grass makes financial sense, select a sturdy, versatile product.

At Petalon Landscape Management, Inc., we specialize in artificial grass systems for commercial properties in the Bay Area. We are happy to help you choose and install an artificial lawn that is easy to maintain and stays green and inviting all year round.

Contact us today to discuss how an artificial grass system can enhance the value and visual appeal of your commercial property. Call Petalon at 408-453-3998 for all your landscaping and lawn care needs in the Bay Area.