Field notes.
Notes on horticulture, stone, seasons and property care, from thirty years in the field.
Estate CareYear-Round Estate Care Calendar: Month by Month
A month-by-month estate care calendar for large properties: lawn, trees, hardscape, exteriors and snow, so no seasonal task is missed all year.
SnowBuild a Snow Removal Plan for Your Property
Plan snow removal before winter: map priorities, mark edges, choose ice management, set triggers and decide who handles it. A guide for New England.
Lawn & GardenDrought-Tolerant Planting in Los Angeles County
Drought-tolerant planting in Los Angeles: how to choose plants, prepare soil, mulch and irrigate efficiently, plus a general look at local watering rules.
TreesSigns a Tree Needs an Arborist: What to Watch For
Learn the signs a tree needs an arborist: dead limbs, leaning, cracks, fungus and root damage, plus when to call a certified arborist for help.
HardscapeBluestone, Pavers or Natural Stone for a Patio
Compare a bluestone, paver or natural stone patio for New England freeze-thaw winters: durability, installation, maintenance and what drives the cost.
ExteriorsDeck Maintenance After a New England Winter
Deck maintenance after a New England winter: inspect framing and fasteners, clean, repair and seal wood or composite so your deck is safe for spring.
Lawn & GardenWhen to Aerate and Overseed a Massachusetts Lawn
The best time to aerate and overseed a Massachusetts lawn is late summer to early fall. Learn timing, methods and aftercare for cool-season grass.
SeasonalSpring Cleanup Checklist for North Shore MA Properties
A practical spring cleanup checklist for North Shore, MA properties: what to clear, repair and prune after winter, and when to start each task.
SeasonalFall Cleanup Before First Frost: A New England Guide
What to do in a fall cleanup before first frost in New England: leaves, beds, irrigation, plants and gutters, with timing so your property winters well.
TreesMulch Mistakes That Hurt Trees and Shrubs
Volcano mulching, too much depth and buried trunk flares are common mulch mistakes that hurt trees and shrubs. Here is how to mulch the right way.