Art, Science, and Nature

I’ve long understood Ornamental Horticulture, aka Landscaping, to exist at the nexus of Art, Science, and Nature. The Science of Botany, The Nature of the Elements, and the Art of combining Them in a sensorily evocative frame. Proper landscape design (I won’t say “landscape architecture”, for that field lost its way in the weeds some time ago) necessarily uses the basics of all good design composition. Mass, texture, line, color, the ability to draw the eye into and through a scene….all must be judiciously employed. The difference with landscapes is the artist must always customize their creation to a preexisting medium: All of a property’s structures, and their surrounding terrain. This makes landscape artistry a rare orchid in the vast world of design. Each new project is more akin to a puzzle than a blank canvas. The end result should be unique, surprising, and beautiful, but the pieces of the puzzle are already there…waiting to be discovered.

This is the special talent of the proper landscape designer. Knowing where the water goes, and how to maximize its magic. Seeing where to accent the residence, and where to deflect attention. Finding the right counterbalance to existing weight, like trees, buildings and bushes. Feeling when to visually expand a space, and when to contract it. Understanding where the proper French Curve should be to contrast the recto-linear house and walk. All of this, and more, must be juggled with the needs and habits of the homeowner, while remaining synchronous to the local bio-system. Now add in the volatile nature of both the nursery industry, and Mother Nature herself, and the accomplishments of the Ornamental Horticulturist become truly impressive.

Why take chances then when it comes to investing in your family’s outdoor living space? Whomever you choose to help you create your personal paradise, make sure they understand and integrate all of these exceedingly vital elements. Unlike any other investment you can make, every one of these threaten to sabotage the whole if left unconsidered. With over 35 years of award-winning design experience, our team knows how to deliver results that check all the boxes. Beauty, Utility, Sustainability, and Affordability. Contact us today, and trust RAM to solve the puzzle of your unique landscape.

Winter Work

In the absence of snow, it’s easy to limb up this copse of River Birch (B. nigra) and keep the landscape looking tidy.

Winter work in the landscape business here in the north used to mean plowing snow. With today’s shifting climate however, snow biz has drifted…. from reliably profitable, to an occasional necessity. While global warming isn’t exactly a good thing, there is a silver lining. Milder winter temperatures mean more opportunities to service the landscape in the off-season, a once unheard-of possibility.

Of course, winter pruning has always been a thing. With no leaves to obscure the view, there’s no better time to reduce overgrown shrubs, and clean out the interior of trees large and small. There’s also less weight and less to dispose of when trimming in winter. The lack of consistent snow cover only increases the window for accomplishing these tasks.

With landscapes more visible there is more scrutiny of condition. Some sites may benefit from an occasional cleanup of branches, late leaves or perennials, or litter and debris to keep them looking sharp all season long. The weather is so mild at times that beds can be edged and patios installed.

Even lawns can benefit from a soil conditioner like lime or gypsum applied appropriately during warm spells.

Milder winters mean less pest kill-off too. Be prepared for early grub applications and preemergent weed killer.

And of course in the garden, a meditative walk on a mild winter’s day reveals nature’s details of dormancy, a subtle hidden beauty that hints at greater promise, and defies the often bleak description of common observance. The perfect time to dream and plan for fast-approaching spring.

This RAM is just a Lamb

Don’t be sheepish, welcome to RAM! A new concept in landscape management built around sensibility, sustainability, and affordability.

Property Managers everywhere are starting to realize that what’s good for the earth can be good for the bottom line too. Especially when it comes to landscaping! Nothing costs more than maintaining unsustainable turf areas. Smart managers are saving thousands by reducing turf and planting gardens and prairies. Less grass means lower mowing, fertilizer, and water costs. More gardens means more biodiversity, less disease and pest issues, and healthier, happier, more productive employees. They also mean a lower carbon footprint for both home and industry.

Already have an older landscape? Instead of starting over, let our consultants advise on how to renovate, renew, or re-purpose existing elements. Many times useful plants have simply been mistreated or incorrectly situated. Using what you already have in a more appropriate setting can save money on a snappy, sensible makeover, rather than a complete overhaul.

Whether a homeowner, property manager, or business owner, RAM Exteriors has thoughtful, personalized landscape solutions for your situation. Help us grow as we help you find a more efficient land management solution.

Remember, right now the Ram is just a lamb with a plan, and the lofty-minded goals of a full-grown mountain goat, prancing peak to pinnacle in the modern world of horticulture.

Come climb with us.