Landscape Maintenance & Design
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Category: Pets

Keepin' It GreenBlogPets
28 May 2026
0 Comments By Lauren S Lawn, Pets, Spring, Summer

NH Landscaping for Beginners: Easy Fixes for your Pre-Summer Landscaping Troubles

New Hampshire homeowners deal with a lot of landscaping challenges during late spring and early summer. Between heavy rain, changing temperatures, weeds, and irrigation issues, even healthy yards can start showing signs of stress. Many common landscaping problems are actually simple to fix once you know what to look for. Here are some of the most common issues NH homeowners run into this time of year, and a few easy ways to improve them.

Problem: Thin or Patchy Grass
Solution: Late spring is a great time to overseed thin areas and improve lawn thickness. Keep newly seeded areas lightly watered and avoid cutting the grass too short. Aerating compacted soil can also help grass roots grow stronger.

For more seeding information, this “top picks” style article from Better Homes & Gardens reviews their favorite grass seed options.

Problem: Weeds Taking Over the Lawn
Solution: Weeds spread quickly this time of year, especially in weak or thinning lawns. Keeping your grass healthy and mowing regularly can naturally reduce weed growth. Mulching planting beds also helps prevent weeds from taking over garden areas.

Problem: Yellow or Brown Spots in the Lawn
Solution: Overwatering is one of the most common causes of lawn discoloration in New Hampshire summers. Lawns usually do better with deeper watering a few times per week instead of daily watering. It also helps to water early in the morning before the heat of the day.

Problem: Soggy Areas and Drainage Problems
Solution: Heavy spring rain can leave certain parts of the yard holding water for days. Try simple fixes, like adjusting downspouts, improving grading, or adding mulch and compost to compacted areas. All of these can improve drainage and help prevent lawn damage.

Problem: Overgrown Shrubs and Messy Beds
Solution: Plants grow fast during late spring, and landscapes can quickly start looking crowded. Light pruning, fresh edging, and a thin layer of mulch can instantly clean up the appearance of a yard. This will also improve curb appeal without major work!

Here’s a helpful video about Easy Pruning Tips for Beginners!

Problem: Sprinkler Heads Spraying Sidewalks Instead of Grass
Solution: Irrigation systems often shift or get damaged during winter. Running each irrigation zone and making small adjustments to sprinkler heads can improve water coverage and reduce waste. Cleaning clogged nozzles can also make a noticeable difference.

Also reference our other posts ALL about Irrigation!

A healthy landscape does not need to be perfect to look great. Most landscaping problems are small and manageable when caught early. We hope these simple fixes will help you keep your yard happy this summer!

01 May 2026
0 Comments By Lauren S Fall, Lawn, Pets, Spring, Summer

How to keep your Landscape AND your Pets Happy and Healthy!

A pet friendly yard starts with surfaces that can handle daily use. Dogs create wear patterns, especially along fences and play paths. Choose durable turf like tall fescue and consider mixing in clover to reduce damage and watering needs. In high traffic areas, switch to mulch or gravel to prevent bare spots and mud. This keeps your yard functional and reduces ongoing repair.

Neither option is universally better. Each serves a different purpose in a pet friendly yard.

Lawn works best for comfort and daily use. Grass is soft on paws, stays cooler in summer, and gives dogs space to run and rest. It also absorbs waste better than hard surfaces. The downside is wear. High traffic and urine can create brown spots and thinning areas, especially without proper maintenance.

Mulch and gravel work best for durability and designated areas. These materials hold up well in high traffic zones like paths, fence lines, and bathroom areas. They drain well and are easier to clean. Gravel can be tough on paws if too sharp, and some mulches are not pet safe, so material choice matters.

The best solution is a mix of both. Use lawn for open play and comfort. Add mulch or gravel in high use zones to prevent damage and mud. This combination gives you a yard that stays functional, clean, and comfortable for your pet.

Plant selection and comfort features matter. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center handles over 400,000 cases per year. Plants rank in the top 5 most common toxins, accounting for a significant share of calls each year. Use pet safe plants such as marigolds, sunflowers, and herbs, and avoid common toxic varieties. Add shade with trees or structures so pets can stay cool during warm weather. Choose ground materials that stay comfortable underfoot and avoid surfaces that retain heat. These choices improve safety and usability.

Structure your yard with clear zones. Open space supports play and exercise, while a designated bathroom area keeps waste contained and easier to manage. Use materials like pea gravel or mulch in that zone for drainage and cleanup. Protect planting beds with edging or low barriers to reduce digging and damage. This layout keeps the yard organized and lowers maintenance.

Finish with systems that support long term performance. Good drainage prevents mud and odor buildup in high use areas. Irrigation helps maintain turf and can dilute urine spots to reduce burn damage. Use pet safe mulch, smooth edging, and secure fencing to avoid injury. These details make the yard easier to maintain and more durable over time.

YOUR PETS WILL THANK YOU!