Landscape Maintenance

Sod

Sod (grass/turf) is required to be planted in all areas that are not covered by other landscaping and any structure, driveway, walkways, etc. Alternative drought resistant sod, such as Bahia may be used with permission from the City. Decorative rocks, pebbles, stone, gravel, or other similar material, etc., shall only be used to accent organic landscape material and shall not cover more than 10% of any open space yard area. Ground cover plants may be used in lieu of sod so long as it provides full coverage within 6 months of planting. Artificial turf may only be used in the rear of the property, with conditions.

Irrigation

Irrigation systems are designed to have 100% coverage with a minimum of 50% overlap. Low water demand zones should be installed separately from higher water demand areas. Because they have different precipitation rates, rotary irrigation heads must be on separate zones from spray/ mist heads. Here in Broward County, we are on year-round water restrictions and may only water our lawns before 10:00 AM or after 4:00 PM, and can only irrigate for 2 days a week, depending upon address numbers.

Pruning

Proper pruning is vital to the health of your tree and every cut has the potential to change the growth of your tree permanently. Properly trained young trees will develop a strong structure that requires less corrective pruning as they mature. It is extremely important to make the correct pruning cuts in order for the tree to be able to protect itself from pests, fungus, bacteria, viruses and other decay. Trees should never be hat-racked, shaped, over-lifted or over-thinned. For most people performing pruning work, the goal is to eliminate tree branches and limbs. However, when cuts are made in the wrong place, this will encourage many more weakly-attached tree parts in the future. If properly pruned, one can eliminate tree parts and re-direct growth without encouraging weakly-attached flush growth.

Topping or "Hat-racking"

Topping a large tree, also known as “hat-racking”, causes excessive sprouting of weakly-attached new branches and also increases wind resistance by creating a denser branch pattern. Excessive lifting creates a condition where the trees become top-heavy. This method of pruning increases the chances of wind damage and tree failure. Topping is a type of pruning where most of the canopy is removed from the tree, leaving mostly branch stubs. Topping initiates decay in the trunk and main branches and attracts wood boring insects. Never top a tree or allow anyone to top one of your trees. Topping is equivalent to butchering a tree. Competent arborists do not top trees.

Excessive Lifting / Thinning

Lifting trees is a common pruning practice where the lower branches of the tree are removed to provide clearance for cars, structures, etc. Over lifting, or excessive thinning of trees, is a poor pruning practice. This type of pruning causes trees to be top heavy, reduces trunk taper and increases the chances of branch breakage. It also disfigures the natural form of the tree.

Pruning should result in the even distribution of branches throughout the entire crown, not just the top. Trees should be inspected every year. Remove dead and crossing/rubbing branches and prune to encourage good structure. Older trees that have been maintained properly do not need pruning every year.

Palm Pruning

Palms do not need much pruning. Only remove dead fronds, flower stalks and seedpods. Never prune fronds above the 9 o’clock to 3 o’clock positions. Protect yourself: when hiring a professional to prune, be sure to ask for a copy of their Certificate of Insurance.