Groundscapes Blog

What Season Is Best for an Annual Planter

Derek York, Maintenance Division Controller — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:29:06 GMT

When it comes to gardening, nothing adds vibrant color and beauty to your outdoor space quite like an annual planter. These versatile containers allow you to experiment with different plant varieties, creating stunning displays throughout the year. However, choosing the right season to start your annual planter is crucial for ensuring optimal growth and blooming. Let’s explore the best season for planting an annual planter and provide you with valuable insights to help you achieve gardening success.

Spring: A Time of Renewal

Spring is often hailed as the best season for annual planters, and for good reason. As nature reawakens after the winter slumber, it brings with it a plethora of plant options to invigorate your container garden. The mild temperatures and longer daylight hours provide an ideal environment for young plants to establish their roots and flourish.

During spring, you can choose from a wide variety of colorful annuals like petunias, impatiens, marigolds, and pansies. These plants thrive in the moderate temperatures of spring and will reward you with vibrant blooms that can last well into summer.

Summer: Embrace the Heat

If you're someone who enjoys warmer weather and vibrant, sun-loving plants, summer might be the perfect season for your annual planter. Plants like geraniums, zinnias, salvia, and begonias are excellent choices for summer planters.

Spring and summer are widely regarded as the best seasons for annual planters due to several factors that promote optimal growth and blooming. Let's delve deeper into some of the reasons why these seasons are ideal for creating vibrant and thriving container gardens, including:

Favorable Growing Conditions:

Spring and summer offer favorable growing conditions for most annual plants. The moderate temperatures during springtime create an ideal environment for young plants to establish their root systems and develop robust foliage. The warmer temperatures of summer, although potentially challenging, are well-suited for sun-loving annuals that thrive in the heat. These conditions provide the necessary warmth and sunlight that many annuals need to flourish.

Abundance of Plant Choices:

Both spring and summer offer a wide array of plant choices for annual planters. Nurseries and garden centers are stocked with an abundant selection of annual flowers during these seasons, allowing you to explore a diverse range of colors, textures, and sizes.

Extended Blooming Period:

Planting annuals in spring or early summer ensures a longer blooming period, allowing you to enjoy their beauty for an extended duration. By starting early in the season, you provide ample time for the plants to establish their root systems and develop sturdy growth, resulting in abundant blooms. This is particularly advantageous for gardeners who seek colorful displays that last throughout the summer months.

Ample Moisture Availability:

Spring and summer are characterized by increased rainfall, ensuring a consistent supply of moisture for your annual planters. This natural irrigation helps to keep the soil moist, preventing plants from drying out and reducing the need for frequent watering. Additionally, the longer daylight hours provide ample time for the plants to absorb sunlight and convert it into energy through photosynthesis, promoting healthy growth and blooming.

Enhanced Gardening Experience:

The pleasant weather conditions of spring and summer make gardening an enjoyable experience. The milder temperatures and gentle breezes create an inviting atmosphere, allowing you to spend more time tending to your plants and nurturing your container garden. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or a beginner, the process of selecting, planting, and caring for your annual planters during these seasons is rewarding and satisfying.

Complementing Outdoor Spaces:

Spring and summer are times when people spend more time outdoors, making annual planters a perfect addition to enhance the beauty of patios, balconies, porches, and gardens.

While spring and summer are often considered the best seasons for annual planters,you can change out your planters in each season. it's important to note that different regions may experience variations in climate and growing conditions. It's always recommended to consider your specific climate and consult with local gardening experts or extension services to determine the optimal planting times for your area.

Autumn: A Tapestry of Colors

As summer fades away and leaves begin to change their hues, autumn unveils a whole new palette of possibilities for your annual planter. This season is characterized by cooler temperatures, which create an ideal environment for plants that thrive in milder conditions. It is an ideal time to visit some of your local farms for container decor, such as cornstalks, milo, and pumpkins.

Autumn annuals, such as chrysanthemums, ornamental kale, pansies, and asters, bring a delightful blend of warm, earthy tones to your container garden. These plants not only add a touch of elegance but also help extend the beauty of your garden into the fall months.

Additionally, autumn is an excellent time to combine annuals with perennial plants, creating a dynamic and enduring display.

Winter: Subtle Elegance

While winter may seem like a dormant period for gardening, it doesn't mean you can't have an annual planter gracing your outdoor space. With careful selection and a touch of creativity, you can create an enchanting winter container garden that exudes subtle elegance.

Opt for plants like winter flowering winter heathers, live evergreen cuttings, such as silver fir, cedar, or juniper. You can also consider using birch branches, eucalyptus, and magnolia leaves These hardy plants are capable of enduring colder temperatures, adding texture and interest to your winter landscape. Consider incorporating accessories like winter berries, pinecones, and seasonal ornaments to add a festive touch to your planter. Placing the container in a sheltered area or providing protection from harsh weather conditions will help ensure the plants' survival and longevity.

The best season for an annual planter ultimately depends on your preferences, climate, and the plant varieties you wish to grow. Each season offers unique opportunities to showcase different colors, textures, and plant combinations. Whether you prefer the vibrancy of spring, the heat-loving plants of summer, the autumnal tapestry, or the subtle elegance of winter, there is a perfect season for your annual planter. You can easily create your ideal landscape design with a trusted professional like Groundscapes and embark on a gardening journey that will bring joy and beauty to your outdoor space throughout the year.

What Can I Do to Make My Landscaping More Colorful and Interesting?

Tyler Degner, Landscape Designer — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:27:33 GMT

A well-designed landscape not only adds curb appeal but also serves as an inviting retreat that reflects your personal style. If you're looking to elevate your outdoor space and make it more vibrant and captivating, incorporating color and interest is key. In this blog post, we'll explore seven creative and practical ideas to transform your landscaping into a colorful and captivating oasis that will leave your neighbors and guests in awe.

Select a Diverse Plant Palette

The foundation of a colorful landscape lies in the selection of plants. Opt for a diverse range of flowering plants, shrubs, and trees that bloom at different times of the year. Consider the seasonal changes and choose varieties that offer vibrant flowers, foliage, or even berries. By carefully planning your plant palette, you can ensure a continuous display of colors throughout the year, providing visual interest and attracting pollinators.

A few things to consider when thinking about diversifying your planters include:

Consider Seasonal Changes: Understanding the seasonal changes in your region is key to planning a diverse plant palette. Take note of the different bloom times, foliage changes, and berry production of various plants throughout the year. By selecting plants that thrive in each season, you can ensure your landscape remains colorful and interesting, even during transitional periods.

Striking Foliage: While flowers often steal the show, foliage can add depth and texture to your landscape. Look for plants with different leaf shapes, sizes, and colors. Some plants have variegated or multi-colored leaves, while others have unique textures or interesting patterns. By mixing plants with contrasting foliage, you can create captivating visual effects even when the flowers are not in bloom.

Pollinator-Friendly Choices: When selecting plants for your diverse palette, prioritize those that attract pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. These beneficial creatures not only add movement and life to your landscape but also play a crucial role in the pollination of plants. Choose nectar-rich flowers and plants with open blooms that provide easy access for pollinators.

Consider Maintenance: As you plan your plant palette, consider the maintenance requirements of each plant. Ensure that you select plants that are well-suited to your climate, soil conditions, and available sunlight. Choose varieties that are relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in your specific environment, reducing the risk of plants becoming lackluster or requiring excessive care.

Embrace Colorful Containers

One of the simplest ways to introduce color and interest is through the use of containers. Experiment with various shapes, sizes, and colors to create a striking visual impact. Fill the containers with an assortment of flowers, ornamental grasses, or even herbs to add both beauty and functionality. Arrange them strategically throughout your landscape, be it on a patio, along pathways, or clustered near entryways, to infuse pops of color into otherwise dull areas.

Incorporate Eye-Catching Focal Points

To create intrigue and draw attention, consider incorporating eye-catching focal points within your landscape. These can be anything from a unique sculpture or a colorful piece of outdoor art to a water feature or an ornamental structure like an arbor or pergola. These elements not only provide visual interest but also serve as conversation starters and can anchor different areas of your outdoor space.

Introduce Textures and Contrasting Foliage

While color plays a crucial role, textures and contrasting foliage also contribute to an interesting landscape. Mix plants with different leaf shapes, sizes, and textures to create visual depth and variety. Pair delicate ferns with bold succulents or juxtapose broad-leaved shrubs with fine ornamental grasses. The interplay between various foliage types will add intrigue and give your landscape a multi-dimensional appeal.

Explore Hardscape Elements

When it comes to designing the perfect yard, many homeowners focus solely on plants and greenery. However, incorporating hardscaping elements such as rocks or retaining walls can add a whole new level of depth and dimension to your outdoor space. By adding texture, color, and height, hardscaping can create different zones and areas within your yard. With proper planning and design, hardscaping can elevate your yard and make it the envy of the neighborhood.

Harness the Power of Lighting

Extend the beauty of your landscape beyond daylight hours by incorporating outdoor lighting. Well-placed spotlights, pathway lights, or string lights can highlight the architectural features of your home, accentuate plants, and create a magical ambiance. Opt for colored lights to add a dramatic effect or choose warm-toned lights to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Create Seasonal Displays

To keep your landscape interesting year-round, embrace seasonal displays. Swap out planters and containers with seasonal flowers and foliage to match the changing seasons. Incorporate hanging baskets, window boxes, or vertical gardens to add layers of color and interest to your outdoor walls. Furthermore, consider using seasonal decor like wreaths, flags, or ornaments to celebrate holidays or special occasions.

Seasonal displays also provide a perfect opportunity to make use of berries and fruits in your designs. Adding plants that produce colorful berries or fruits can enhance the visual interest of your landscape. Consider including shrubs or trees that bear berries in vibrant hues like red, purple, or orange. These plants not only provide a pop of color but also attract birds and other wildlife, adding another layer of liveliness to your outdoor space. Additionally, you can pluck a few sprigs to add to a winter wreath or even your Christmas decor.

By implementing these seven strategies, you can transform your landscaping into a vibrant and captivating outdoor space. Remember you can always get the help of a professional like Groundscapes to help you design the perfect landscaping scheme for your yard. With the insights and experience of their team, you’re sure to have a beautiful array of plants and flowers for your family to enjoy year round.

5 Reasons to Get a Backyard Swimming Pool For The Summer!

Josh Scearcy, Director of Operations — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:26:45 GMT

No matter what time of year it is, it's never too late or early to start planning your own backyard swimming pool. As one of the most popular features built by Groundscapes luxury craftsmen, it's not hard to imagine why swimming pools have become so popular in recent years: Swimming pools are fun in the sun on any warm day in the summer; they are perfect for inviting people to your home, and even better for kids.

With your own pristine outdoor swimming habitat, the memories and experiences of a lifetime are yours to create. Below are the five most popular reasons for getting your own backyard swimming pool this summer - more information on the exact process is also discussed below!

Reason 1: A Majestic Swimming Pool Is a Statement About Who You Are

Not everyone can afford a swimming pool. By putting one in your backyard, your making a statement about your success and your priorities. A backyard swimming pool speaks for itself, insofar as it's a beautiful home improvement that invites company and entertainment into your home while also signifying luxury, status, and good choices.

Our most luxurious customers even go so far to add water weirs, hand-laid pavers along the side, and a custom designed infinity structure and fountain addition. There is no limit to self-expression with swimming pools - and if you can dream it, our luxury craftsmen can bring your idea into reality in no time.

Reason 2: The Summer Splash is Perfect For Kids Entertainment and Family Time

Summer time means school is out and the kids need something to do. Summer also means the weather is exceptional for spending time together outside. What is the perfect solution? A backyard swimming pool.

Whether you are looking for the best summer activity to satisfy the kids and their friends (that is guaranteed to get their energy out!), or just a serene and relaxing environment to spend time with your significant other, a swimming pool is the ideal fit. From an infinity pool to one built with custom pergolas, lighting, and sun-sails, you are guaranteed a celestial experience.

Reason 3: Add a Fire Pit, and You Can Host Anyone and Anything

Combinations of hardscapes make for perfect outdoor environments. By combining a swimming pool with a fire pit, or outdoor kitchen you are revamping your exterior to host anyone and everyone. According to the 2018 Remodelling Impact Report, a fire pit is rated as a 10/10 landscaping improvement, that makes 83% of customers want to spend more time at home.

For your neighborhood friends, work colleagues, or children's classmates, a swimming pool - fire pit combination is perfect for allowing the parents to reconnect, while the kids can play happily with one another. It's also a perfect set up for hosting any event, celebration or holiday as the diversity of activities guarantees that everyone will find something to do!

Reason 4: Easy Exercise with Minimal Effort

Swimming well and staying healthy is an important concern for many conscious parents and professionals nowadays. It's hard to think of a better way to exercise on summer mornings or evenings than swimming laps in your own pool.

Groundscapes pool designs are such that they can be customarily built to accommodate your exact physical interests. From water polo and water basketball to lap swimming - a backyard swimming pool makes you and your family not only happier, but also healthier and in better shape!

Reason 5: You'll Spend More Time in the Sun, Water, and the Great Outdoors

Last but not least, an outdoor swimming pool does something very important that is often overlooked: it allows you to reconnect with the great outdoors in the middle of summer. Whether you spend your time reading a book next to the pool, swimming in the glistening water, or just sitting on a float under the sun, you are most definitely going to be spending time outside.

As such, getting a swimming pool is equal parts entertainment and health: not only will you have a better home atmosphere for family and friends, but you will also be more inclined to spend more time outside - in the pool - and in nature.

Don't Wait: Get Your Swimming Pool Today!

At Groundscapes, we bring over 20 years of experience to the design and build process of luxurious and jaw-dropping swimming pools. We understand what makes the process easier, and the value of time and planning. Because of that, Groundscapes always recommends that you try to start your swimming pool project over the winter season as it gives the team designers more time to create a beautiful 3D model of your future pool.

In tandem, our customers who start in the winter report that the process is easier, their expectations are perfectly met, and they are very happy with the underlying result.

To get started today, feel free to contact us or fill out our unique design consultation form detailing the swimming pools and additional features you would like to start building!

Concrete Patios and Paver Patios: What is the Difference?

Jack Larchick, Sales Consultant — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:24:17 GMT

One of the most popular landscaping features around is a backyard patio. Our customers love them because of the space they provide to spend time outside with family and friends. In many ways a patio is the foundation for many other landscaping improvements such as a fireplace, outdoor kitchen, or swimming pool - they all need a beautiful ground floor to be built upon!

More often than not, we are asked about what type of patio is the best one to start with and if the patio you choose will affect future improvements you may want to add on to your backyard. While many people are familiar with concrete patios, much fewer have ever heard of paver patios. What's the difference? And if you are just starting out on your landscaping journey, which is the best one for you? Let's break down the differences between concrete and paver patios, before explaining how it affects the overall feel of your landscape.

Concrete Patios:

You've probably seen a couple concrete patios or driveways before: for basketball courts, outdoor parties, or just spending time outside with friends. The benefits of a concrete patio are that they are less expensive to create, easy to install, and relatively easy to keep in good shape over a long period of time.

But what about the drawbacks? Concrete patios are aesthetically limited - you can't create too many beautiful designs with them. In addition, if they do crack or need a repair, the repair can be costly, time consuming and complicated. Finally, concrete patios tend to contribute to the concrete jungle/heat island effect - in which the concrete reflects sunlight and heats up the surrounding air.

At Groundscapes, we try to understand each customer's situation to offer them the most customized service possible. However, more often than not, we do not recommend concrete patios for the very reasons explained above!

Paver Patios:

A Paver Patio, in contrast to a Concrete Patio, refers to blocks of stone, bricks, or sometimes concrete that are placed tightly in line with one another to create a smooth and gilded surface to walk upon.

Pavers have a couple of important advantages over straight concrete: they are stronger, customizable to particular materials and colors, and they are relatively easy to repair. The only significant drawback of a paver patio, is that it takes significantly more time, skill, and attention to detail in order to get it installed in the first place. For that reason, you will want to only build a paver patio with a landscaping team you trust.

3 Reasons Why Your Patio Really Matters:

In the opinion of the Groundscapes team, paver stones are the very basis of many improvements in luxury landscaping. From the different outdoor atmospheres and experiences' we have created across Omaha, La Vista, and other parts of Nebraska, we strongly believe that our best projects have been rooted in a well-designed paver patio.

While they may take a little more time to create at the beginning, the benefits down the road are far greater than the initial costs. Here are three reasons why:

(1) A beautiful patio can actually add value to your home: A survey from Quebec even found that it could add up to 12.4% to the overall price.

(2) Patios are great ways to spend time outdoors and with people you care about. According to the American Institute of Architects Home Design Trends Survey outdoor living areas that include a paver patio were voted the number one â€˜special function room' by consumers: that's including internal home improvements as well!

(3) Your Patio is the gateway into luxury landscaping and a refined outdoor atmosphere: we said it at the beginning, and we will emphasize it again now - your paver patio is very much the foundation for your future fire pit, swimming pool, or outdoor kitchen. If you have any desire at all in creating a beautiful outdoor environment, it has to start with the patio!

Overall, paver patios are more beautiful, reliable, and cost-effective in the long term, as compared to concrete patios. While traditional landscaping may not emphasize the value of paver patio's adequately, at Groundscapes we understand that luxury landscaping can only start with a sleek paver patio design. If you are interested in building your own paver patio through Groundscapes don't hesitate to fill out our unique design consultation form!

Landscaping for All Seasons: Strategies for Year-Round Beauty

Jack Larchick, Sales Consultant — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:18:41 GMT

Every season brings about a renewal of our natural landscapes. The trees in the forest bud out in the Spring and lose their leaves in the winter. Grasses and wild plants grow and die at various times throughout the year. As one flower blooms and dies off, another takes its place. There is a cycle that happens year and year in the wild. While it is difficult to mimic nature exactly, this same pattern can occur in the landscape of your own yard with the proper planning and maintenance.

Create a Plan

The number one mistake people make with their landscaping (and life in general) is not planning. This can be a fun process, especially if you are working with a professional with experience in the types of plants and hardscapes that are good for your local area. They can help you draw up a design for your entire yard. It is way easier to adjust on paper than to do the physical work of changing it in your yard. This is a fun project to do in the dead of winter, as it gives you something to look forward to when the ground is ready to work. Landscaping companies also tend to be slower, so the experts will have more time to help you develop a good plan.

Succession Planning

Many people are plant collectors. They find an excellent plant at the local garden center and plop it into the ground. The next time they go, they find another one and just cram it into a space somewhere. There really is no rhyme or reason for the timing of the blooms. If you are looking for color all year, don’t be a plant collector! Spend some time thinking about the plants and fitting them into your plan for succession blooming.

The first thing to consider when developing your landscape plan is the succession of plants. What does this mean exactly? It is basically the same concept that happens naturally in the wild. If you want color in your landscape all year round, you need to understand the timing of each plant you select. Once you have a deeper understanding of the timing, you can then begin to place them in places that will give you that year-round beauty you are looking for. Here are a few examples of plants that you could add to your landscaping design scheme throughout the year.

Spring – Allium, Daffodils, Forsythia, Iris, Pansy, Peony, Tulips

Summer – Begonia, Dahlia, Daylily, Hydrangea, Marigold, Ornamental Grass, Rose

Fall – Aster, Chrysanthemum, Coneflowers, Dahlia, Marigold, Ornamental Grass, Sedum, Sumac, Sunflowers

Winter – Evergreens, Holly, Red Twig Dogwood, Ornamental Grass, Winterberry

Plant Maintenance

You may have noticed in the above list that some plants are listed in several categories. They are star plants that will keep blooming for a very long time if maintained well. Along with keeping these plants in good condition, others will finish their bloom cycle. These plants will need to be cut back so that the next plant can take its place. Having a good schedule for maintenance will not only create healthy plants but will also keep your landscaping looking beautiful. Until you learn the specifics of each plant, having an expert help you with the maintenance may be a good idea. This will allow everything to become established and develop a strong base. Once everything is happy where it has been planted, the maintenance will lessen.

Yard Art

You have likely driven by a home that loves yard art (you know who you are.) Many statues, lights, and other features will be entwined with plants throughout the entire yard. This landscape design style may not be for you, but there is a place for art and sculpture to help you keep things looking good all year. There are loads of art pieces available made for the outdoors. They can be anything from large wooden sculptures to ornate concrete pieces. These can create a central focal point of your landscape design. Spend some time shopping at local garden centers or online shops specializing in outdoor art. When you find the piece or pieces that work for you, work with your landscaping company to ensure they are correctly placed on the ground to keep them looking good for years to come.

Lighting Changes

In years gone by, we were limited in our selection of lighting style and color. Today, the options seem limitless when it comes to lighting. We can choose lights that go on the ground, on the side of the house, or even strung from trees. There are also many color options to choose from. Selecting the right lighting scheme (and type of lights) will allow you to adjust them throughout the year. It may be as simple as changing a lightbulb on the front of your house to a different color on Halloween or Christmas. You may select lights with motion options so your home can be flashier during the holidays and calmer during the summer. Consider adding highlights and lowlights to showcase the best features of your house. This can go a very long way in making your home beautiful all year.

It is always a good idea to spend some time thinking about your goals for your home. Once you have a good idea of what you want to accomplish, begin the research to make it happen. Having an expert team like those at Groundscapes on your side can help you quickly turn those ideas into a plan that can become a reality. Contact us to get your landscape plan underway.

Is the best option a 2D or a 3D design for your new landscape project?

Tyler Degner, Landscape Designer — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:17:20 GMT

Landscape design renderings are created to show clients what their property will look like before their landscaping company gets started on the installation process. These renderings are helpful for everyone involved, as it gives both the clients and the company a chance to get on the same page about the goals of the project.

There are two different types of landscape design renderings: 2D and 3D. The 2D design provides a direct view of the landscape project, often in full color, to give you a better visual experience of what your finished project will look like. The 3D design serves the same purpose, however, it is much more detailed and allows you to see all angles of the landscape. Both types of design renderings offer their own benefits and drawbacks.

What is the difference between 2D and 3D landscape design renderings?

2D and 3D landscape design renderings are both virtual models that show you what the end result of your landscape project will look like. However, both are different in their own ways.

The 2D landscape design includes creating drawings, plans, and blueprints. A 2D design illustrates the site layout and where things are placed (like softscapes and hardscapes), but they don’t add dimensional depth as a 3D design does. This type of design rendering is excellent for smaller landscape projects.

The 3D landscape design rendering creates a realistic view of what your landscape will look like when the project is finished. It gives you a complete picture of your landscape from all angles and can even show you what your property will look like during the day and at night. A 3D design rendering is ideal for large-scale landscape projects.

What are the benefits of 2D and 3D design renderings?

Both 2D and 3D designs are extremely helpful for property owners and landscaping companies. Here are the benefits of each type of design rendering:

2D Design Rendering: 2D designs are helpful if you want a simple and brief overview of what your future landscape will look like. A 2D design rendering is your best bet if you need to work quickly through a landscape project since it takes less time to generate when compared to a 3D design rendering.

3D Design Rendering: 3D designs create a realistic view of your future landscape. You are able to view your property at all different types of angles, including a bird's-eye-view. You can choose to view your future landscape during the daytime or the nighttime and you will also be able to get a good view of the different plants in various growth stages.

Both 2D and 3D design renderings help to ensure the desired outcome of the landscape project.

What are the drawbacks of 2D and 3D design?

While both 2D and 3D design renderings are great options, there are also some drawbacks to each type:

2D Design: 2D design renderings won't give you as much of a realistic view of your future landscape as a 3D design will. It can be hard to imagine exactly what the end result of your project will look like without varying angles and features like daytime and nighttime views.

3D Design: While 3D designs are the most realistic choice to view your future landscape, they can take more time to create. They are also usually more expensive than 2D design renderings are.

Hire our team for your next landscaping project!

Whether you have a 2D or a 3D design rendering created for your landscaping project, you will be able to clearly see what your future landscape will look like. Both types of design renderings bring to fruition your ideal landscape, thus allowing you to make any needed changes to the design before the installation or construction starts.

At Groundscapes, Inc., we design and install your ideal landscapes and use 2D and 3D design renderings in the process. We offer our services to the Omaha, Elkhorn, and Bennington, NE areas. If your home or business is nearby, give our team a call today at (402) 397-5930 and get started creating your dream landscape today.

5 Eye-Catching Paver Patterns for Your Patio in Omaha!

Jack Larchick, Sales Consultant — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:16:29 GMT

Your patio is an extension of your home. It can be a sanctuary at the end of a long day, a place for the family to gather for meals or fun, or the perfect backdrop for elegant entertaining. When it comes to your patio, nothing determines the overall look of your patio, like the paver pattern you choose. Pavers are stylish and trendy. It’s no wonder that there are so many patterns available to create an inviting outdoor space that is both sophisticated and contemporary. The difference your paver pattern makes to your patio area can be transformative. Let’s go over 5 of the most popular paver designs that are commonly used when constructing patios in Omaha.

1. Basketweave

Much like an actual woven basket, a basketweave design gives the illusion that the bricks run behind each other and continue on the other side. Basketweave is composed of pavers that are configured in a rectangular shape to form grids. Those grids can face in different directions, depending on how you want them to look. Basketweave is popular because of its versatility - it can be as simple or elaborate as you desire. The best part is you can choose from an unlimited number of variations to add your own personal touch.

2. Herringbone

The herringbone pattern can be dated back to the Roman Empire. Yet, its sleek and mesmerizing design continues to be an exceptional choice for outdoor patios to this day. Rectangular pavers can be aligned either diagonally or at a 90-degree angle, depending on your preference to form patterns that either look like arrows or the letter L. You can up the wow factor by alternating the colors of your pavers as well.

Colored borders can be added to your pavers to make your pattern standout even more!

3. Running bond

A running bond pattern is a series of pavers set in a long straight series. Arranging each stone so that it is staggered by half its length creates a cohesive and appealing look. You have some exciting options to consider when choosing a running bond pattern. You can apply your distinctive touch through the color choices and decorative accents you choose to incorporate.

4. Ashlar

An ashlar pattern is a timeless choice and has long been a part of history. Suppose you have a large area to cover. In that case, an ashlar pattern will add an intriguing element to your outdoor patio area. The possible variations are impressively simple yet elegant.

Ashlar patterns are made by arranging pavers of different sizes and shapes and placing them together. Not only can you choose sizes, but you can also decide to add different colored pavers to complement the rest of your outdoor patio space.

5. Stack bond

Stack bond patterns are evenly shaped pavers aligned in straight rows set squarely against each other. They can be square or rectangular. It all depends on what works best for your outdoor patio space. You can create a signature look by choosing alternating colors or incorporating some tasteful designs into your pattern. The stack bond design will stand the test of time with its clean lines and neatly spaced pavers.

The Importance of Irrigation

Derek York, Maintenance Division Controller — Mon, 21 Sep 2026 18:13:48 GMT

The vital role of irrigation systems in nurturing newly installed landscapes.

Creating a beautiful landscape requires careful planning, selection of suitable plant material, and skilled installation. However, without a reliable irrigation system in place, all these efforts may be in vain. Irrigation systems play a pivotal role in the health and wellness of newly installed landscapes, ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of the plants. In this blog post, we will explore why irrigation systems are crucial for the care and maintenance of newly installed landscapes, highlighting the importance of Groundscapes as a trusted provider of irrigation solutions.

Optimal Watering

Water is essential for the survival and growth of plants, especially during the critical early stages after installation. Irrigation systems provide the ability to deliver water directly to the root zone, ensuring that plants receive an adequate and consistent water supply. Unlike manual watering, which may lead to overwatering or underwatering, irrigation systems are designed to distribute water evenly, avoiding stress to the plants and promoting healthy root development. Watering correctly is the key to having a colorful and interesting outdoor area.

Efficient Water Usage

In today's environmentally conscious world, water conservation is of the utmost importance. Irrigation systems are designed to optimize water usage by delivering water only where it is needed, minimizing wastage. With features such as drip irrigation, soil moisture sensors, and programmable timers, these systems allow for precise control over water application, reducing water consumption while maintaining the health of the landscape.

Time and Labor Saving

Manually watering a newly installed landscape can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive task. With an irrigation system in place, you can automate the watering process, freeing up your valuable time and energy for other tasks. Programmable timers can be set to water at specific intervals, ensuring consistent care for your landscape even when you're away. Groundscapes specializes in installing irrigation systems tailored to your landscape's needs, providing you with convenience and peace of mind.

Plant Health and Growth

Proper watering is essential for the health and growth of plants. Irrigation systems help prevent issues such as under-watering or over-watering, which can lead to plant stress, root rot, or disease. By delivering water directly to the root zone in controlled amounts, irrigation systems promote strong root development and overall plant health. Healthy plants are better equipped to resist pests, diseases, and environmental stressors, ensuring the longevity and beauty of your landscape.

Long-Term Cost Savings

Investing in an irrigation system during the installation of your landscape may seem like an additional expense, but it offers significant long-term cost savings. By ensuring efficient water usage, preventing plant loss due to improper watering, and minimizing the need for replacement or repairs, irrigation systems help you avoid unnecessary expenses in the future. Groundscapes provides professional installation services, ensuring that your irrigation system is set up correctly from the start, saving you both time and money in the long run.

When it comes to the care and health of newly installed landscapes, irrigation systems are a crucial component. Groundscapes understands the importance of providing reliable and tailored irrigation solutions to nurture your landscape's beauty and vitality. By investing in an irrigation system, you ensure optimal watering, efficient water usage, time savings, plant health, and long-term cost savings. Contact Groundscapes today to have your irrigation system installed and experience the benefits of a well-cared-for landscape.

Your Guide to Caring for Sod After Installation

Derek York, Maintenance Division Controller — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 19:00:25 GMT

Many property owners think that installing sod is an easy way to get a beautiful lawn instantly. However, there are actually a few things that you need to do to take care of your new sod and keep it looking beautiful following installation. Right after your new sod is installed, you need to water it to keep it from drying up. For the first 2 weeks after the installation, you need to stay off your new lawn, keep it watered, and mow it properly. About a month after the installation, you need to water your lawn less often but more deeply.

What do you need to do directly after installation?

The day your new sod is installed is the day you need to begin caring for it. Directly after installation, you need to water your new lawn thoroughly. You should water about 6 inches down into your soil and your lawn should feel soggy when you walk on it. It is crucial to water your lawn deeply on the day it is installed; if you wait until the next day to water it, the sun could dry it up and damage your newly installed sod.

The best time of year to schedule your sod installation is the late summer to early fall.

What do you need to do for the first 2 weeks following installation?

Although it may look like you have a flawless, lush lawn, the grass is still very weak and will need time to establish a deep root system. The best thing to do during the first 2 weeks after your sod installation is to stay off of your lawn. A general rule is to stay off of your new sod until after the first mowing, which should occur 14 days following installation. This will prevent adding extra stressors to the roots of your grass while they are developing. During this time, you also need to keep your lawn moist throughout the day to further help your sod take root.

As you get closer to the 14-day mark, you should cut back on how often you are watering your new lawn. This will ensure that your soil is able to firm up before you mow. On the 14th day following the installation of your new sod, you can mow your lawn for the first time. It is important that you mow high and never cut off more than 1/3 off of your grass blades. After you have properly mowed your lawn 2 weeks after installation, you can begin to use your lawn again.

What do you need to do 3 to 4 weeks after installation?

About 3 weeks to a month after the installation of your new sod, you need to make a few changes to your watering habits; you should water your lawn less frequently but deeper than you were for the first month following installation. You can do this by watering for a longer duration each time to ensure that your new lawn is being thoroughly saturated with water. This new watering schedule will help the roots of your new sod grow deeper and establish more quickly.