Thursday, March 29, 2012

Xeriscape Series Part Two...

Arizona Soil Preparation




Each type of plant requires a slightly different type of soil in order to thrive. Most Arizona soil is very heavy in clay and/or content and lacks natural fertilizing properties. Most plants will benefit from the use of compost and mulching to amend the hard soil. However, you might be surprised to learn that many of our Sonoran desert species actually prefer the hard, dense Arizona soil. In fact, some trees and plants thrive in gravely or rocky soil with very little water.




It is very important to choose plants and trees that fit the existing Arizona soil... or the soil needs to be amended to fit the desired plants. 





If you are ready for a more environmentally-friendly landscape that conserves water, call ProQual at 480-456-0608.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Great Job ProQual!


This morning we received an email from the supervisor of a project that we just completed. I am so proud of my staff... I had to share!

Good morning Scott,
Just wanted to thank you and your staff for going WAY above and beyond with your assistance in the Veramonte reclaimed water conversion project. I was the project manager for the conversion and the project’s success has a lot to do with your staff. I can’t say enough about how awesome Matt and Mike are, their knowledge, customer service, and willingness to help really made a positive impression with City staff. Yesterday we conducted the dye test to ensure that there were no irrigation leaks or cross connections, we completed the test in 3 hours. In previous tests at different properties, the same test has taken up to 4 days! ProQual’s property knowledge and irrigation knowledge proved to be an invaluable asset to the success of this project. Again, thank you for allowing Mike, Matt, and all of your staff the time and resources to make this conversion a success, I greatly appreciate it. I look forward to working with ProQual again! 

City of Surprise Public Works
CIP Project Manger


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Xeriscape Series Part One...

Xeriscape Design & Planning

Xeriscape design in Arizona begins with a sketch of the property perimeter and all structures and hardscape elements that will remain intact. It is important to include driveways, patio areas, sidewalks etc. Then add any existing plants or trees that will remain after the xeriscape renovation.

Once the base plan of the existing property is complete, it is time to consider any major additions like screened areas, dog runs, park benches or pergolas etc. When sketching in aerial view, it is easy to overlook the elevation view and the desired curb appeal of the finished project.

The final planning step is to add areas for turf, perennial beds, views, screens, slopes etc. Xeriscape requires careful planning in regards to drainage in order to make the most what little rainfall we receive in the Phoenix AZ area. At this point, most of the bugs should be worked out so the plan can be drafted to scale and put into motion.

Considering a xeriscape renovation on your property? Call ProQual @ 480-456-0608

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

What is Xeriscaping…?



When you live in an arid part of the country like we do in Phoenix Arizona, you tend to hear the term “xeriscape” quite often. So, what is xeriscape and how does it differ from traditional landscaping? Quite simply, xeriscaping takes a drought-friendly approach to landscape in order to reduce water consumption in regions where the water supply may be a concern. Most xeriscape plans focus on using plants and trees native to the region that will flourish with little to no additional irrigation.

With many local municipalities contemplating potential water usage restrictions, it may be a great time to consider updating some areas of your Phoenix AZ landscaping to be more water efficient. ProQual has experienced Arizona Landscape Management Professionals on staff, including Arborists (Tree Specialist) and Horticulturists (Plant Specialists). They are uniquely qualified to handle hardscape and landscape upgrades using the xeriscape approach to modern landscaping in Arizona.

It is our goal to increase the value of your landscape by using sustainable landscape management practices tailored for our dry Arizona climate. Please follow our blog in the coming weeks as we complete a ten-part series on The Principles of Xeriscape in Arizona. Here is a preview of the brief articles to come:

Xeriscape Design & Planning
-       Arizona Soil Preparation
-       Irrigation Efficiency
-       Arizona’s Plant Zone
-       Tree & Plant Selection
-       Mulching in Arizona
-       Alternative Turf Solutions
-       Hardscapes in Arizona
-       Landscape/Xeriscape Maintenance
-       Drainage Considerations
-       Getting Started

Contact ProQual Landscaping at: 480-456-0608