Author: BSLandscaping

Cut off image at feet showing hands salting a walkway

Presalting Your Property – Is It Worth It?

Written by BSLandscaping on November 22, 2023. Posted in Winter Safety, Winterization.

Presalting your property is a topic that often leaves people wondering if it is worth the investment. We have some thoughts: Grab a chair, a cup of coffee, or a sprinkle of salt (just kidding, you don’t need any of that yet) and let’s get to it.

The Art of Presalting

We all know that winters in Southern Ontario can be, well, dramatic. The snow, the ice, and the ever-changing weather patterns can keep us all guessing. But you’re a savvy homeowner; you’re not going to let Mother Nature play dice with your property.

Presalting, for the uninitiated, is the practice of spreading salt on your driveway and walkways before the snow or ice rolls in. It’s like giving your property a preemptive strike against the icy forces of nature.

Is It Worth the ‘Salt’?

Presalting is like buying insurance for your driveway. You invest a bit now to save a lot later. Here’s why it’s worth considering:

Safety First: It’s all about safety, folks. Presalting prevents ice from forming, reducing the risk of slip and falls.
Time Saver: By Presalting, you can often skip the heavy-duty snow removal session. A little preventive action can save you hours of back-breaking shovelling.
No Damage Zone: Rock salt, when applied before a snowfall, helps to prevent the formation of thick ice layers, which can damage your pavement. Protect your property and your wallet!
Peace of Mind: Knowing your property is prepared for winter weather helps with peace of mind. No more late-night weather app checks or worrying about that surprise freeze.

Timing Is Everything

Now that we’ve got the ‘worth it’ part down, let’s talk timing. When should you whip out the salt shaker? The key is to be proactive, not reactive.

Pre-Storm Prepping: As soon as you hear that winter is knocking on your door, start spreading the salt on your driveway and walkways. Don’t wait for the snow to fall.

Maintain & Refresh: Keep an eye on your property. If the weather is particularly nasty and a lot of precipitation is expected, give your property another sprinkling to keep that ice at bay.

Temperature Matters: Salt works best when it’s not too cold. If it’s frigid out there, the effectiveness of the salt decreases, so don’t be shy with the salt when the mercury starts to plummet.

Don’t Overdo It: Remember, a little goes a long way. You don’t need to create a salt desert on your property. Just a light, even sprinkling should do the trick.

Presalting your property in Southern Ontario is an investment in safety, sanity, and your property’s longevity. So, the next time you’re thinking about the ‘salt life,’ remember – it’s better to be salty in advance and stay ahead of the winter curve.

Fall Garden Clean-Up: Preparing Your Garden for Winter

Written by BSLandscaping on September 19, 2023. Posted in Gardening.

Here in the greater Toronto area, the nights are getting longer and colder, it’s a telltale sign that winter is just around the corner. While we cherish the beauty of fall, it’s also the perfect time to prepare your garden for the chilly months ahead. At Black Swan Landscaping, we’re here to guide you through the essential steps of fall garden clean-up and getting your outdoor space prepared for a long winter.

Stop Watering at the Right Time

In Ontario, the timing for stopping your lawn’s water supply is crucial. As temperatures start to drop and frosty nights become more frequent, typically around late October to early November, it’s time to stop watering. Your grass is gearing up for its winter slumber, so ensure it’s well-hydrated before the deep freeze sets in. Deep watering before winter ensures that your lawn will stay as healthy as possible through the cold season.

Rake Up Those Leaves

Leaves may be pretty as they start to change, but once they are on the ground, don’t leave them there. These fallen leaves can smother your lawn, blocking sunlight and stifling growth. If left unattended, they can also create a cozy home for mould and mildew, a surefire way to cause problems for your lawn and garden.

Prune and Prepare

Before it gets too cold give your plants and trees some TLC. Pruning dead or overgrown branches not only enhances the overall appearance of your landscape but also prevents damage from heavy snow and ice. Trim shrubs, roses, and ornamental trees, and tidy up any withered perennials. This proactive approach ensures your garden’s resilience when spring arrives.

Protect Your Garden Beds

Applying a fresh layer of mulch to your garden beds is like tucking your plants in for a long winter’s rest. Mulch acts as a natural insulator, keeping the soil temperature stable and protecting your plants’ roots from the harsh winter elements. It’s a simple step with significant benefits, promoting the health and vitality of your garden.

Store Outdoor Equipment

When all your seasonal garden work is done it’s time to think about storing your outdoor equipment. Protect your garden tools, furniture, and accessories from the winter’s destructive forces. Proper storage ensures they’ll be in top shape when spring beckons you back to the garden.

At Black Swan Landscaping, we understand the unique needs of gardens based on the ever-changing climate in the Greater Toronto area. Our dedicated team is here to assist you with your fall garden clean-up, ensuring your outdoor space is ready for a cozy winter. Contact us today to schedule your fall maintenance and let us help you prepare your garden for our often brutal winters.

With the right care and preparation, your landscape can thrive even in the coldest of winters. Embrace the beauty of fall, and let your garden rest peacefully, knowing that a landscape company that cares is looking after it.

trees wrapped in burlap to protect over the winter

Protect Your Garden This Winter with Burlap

Written by BSLandscaping on September 18, 2023. Posted in Gardening, Lawn Care, Winterization.

This is the season where gardeners turn their attention to preparing their plants for the long winter ahead. Among the various methods of winter protection, Black Swan Landscaping finds burlap to be a versatile and effective ally in shielding your garden from the harshest elements. In this blog post, we’ll explore the art of burlap plant protection, providing you with valuable insights into why and how to use this natural material to ensure your plants thrive through the winter months.

Why Burlap?

Burlap is a plant protector’s best friend and for good reasons. Unlike plastic coverings, which can trap moisture and stifle your plants, burlap is a breathable fabric. It allows air circulation while safeguarding against frost, snow, ice, and winter burn—a condition induced by the combination of harsh winter sunlight and dehydrated soil. By choosing burlap, you’re ensuring that your plants can breathe and receive the protection they need.

When to Use Burlap for Ontario Gardens

The timing of burlap application is crucial for maximum effectiveness. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Newly Planted Shrubs and Trees: Young plants are more vulnerable to winter’s chill. It’s advisable to protect them for their first one to three winters until they establish themselves as winter-tolerant.

2. Broadleaf Evergreens: Species such as azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons often require burlap covering during extreme cold. These plants tend to be more sensitive to winter conditions.

3. Late Fall for Evergreens: For evergreen varieties like yews and spruce, wrapping them in burlap should occur in late fall, providing them with the winter protection they need.

4. After the First Frost for Roses: Once the first heavy frost has visited your garden, it’s time to cut back your roses. Properly wrapped burlap can offer additional protection.

Benefits of Burlap with Ontario Winters

Wrapping plants and covering shrubs with burlap provides an array of benefits:

1. Moisture Retention: Burlap helps retain moisture, ensuring your plants stay hydrated during the drier winter months.

2. Wildlife Deterrent: It acts as a barrier, keeping deer and other wildlife from feasting on your plants when food becomes scarce.

3. Protection from Elements: Burlap safeguards your plants from the harsh effects of winter, including sunscald, ice, windburn, and more.

The Breathability of Burlap

Burlap’s breathable nature ensures that your plants won’t suffocate under their winter armour. This property allows the plant to exchange gases with the outside environment, preventing issues related to excessive moisture or trapped heat. It’s a gentle yet effective shield against the cold.

As you prepare your garden for the winter ahead, consider the advantages of burlap in your arsenal of protective measures. From shielding newly planted treasures to safeguarding delicate evergreens, burlap offers an eco-friendly, breathable solution to winter’s challenges. By wrapping your plants in burlap, you’re not only preserving their health but also ensuring a vibrant and resilient garden come springtime. Want to learn more ways to protect your garden this winter? Read our 10 essential tips for Southern Ontario fall landscaping guide here!