Tag: landscaping

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By Krasi Henkel

February is often seen as a downtime for gardeners in many parts of the country. While your landscape may still be dormant, there are still important tasks that need to be completed before spring arrives. Here are 5 things every gardener should be doing this month:

1. Prune Trees, Shrubs and Vines

Late winter is the best time to prune many trees, shrubs, and vines. Pruning not only maintains the desired size and shape, but it also removes dead or damaged branches which can invite disease and pests. Focus first on spring-flowering plants like forsythia, lilacs, and flowering quince. Those that bloom later in the season can be pruned a bit later.

February blooms
Early blooms
Be sure to prune ornamental trees

2. Get a Jump on Weed Control

Weeds will begin germinating as soon as temperatures begin to rise. Get a head start on curtailing them by applying pre-emergent herbicide early in the month. This will help prevent many annual and perennial weeds from taking over flower and vegetable beds once spring growth resumes.

3. Test and Amend Your Garden Soil

Now is the perfect time to get your soil tested through your local extension office or purchase an at-home testing kit. Testing will tell you the pH of your soil, as well as macronutrient levels and recommendations for amendments to correct any deficiencies. Preparing your soil now means your plants will thrive once planted.

4. Sow Cool Weather Crops

Toward the end of February, you can start certain hardy vegetables inside for an early spring harvest. Vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and onions can be started indoors 6-8 weeks before your last expected frost date. Check seed packets for more specifics on starting times.

5. Plan and Prepare for Spring Planting

Finally, use February to make plans for the upcoming growing season. Order seeds, map out your vegetable garden layout, and clean and sharpen tools. Planning ahead will make you ready to hit the ground running once planting season officially begins.

Even though the garden may still be frozen, February is a pivotal month for getting set for spring. Completing winter garden maintenance and preparation now will ensure your yard and garden are primed for vigorous growth in just a couple short months.

Looking for a home with the perfect garden? Properties on the Potomac can help you find your outdoor oasis. Give us a call at 703-624-8333 now!

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Courtyards, those serene and open spaces tucked away within the heart of buildings, have a rich history that spans across cultures and centuries. These versatile architectural elements have evolved from functional necessities to aesthetic havens, reflecting the changing societal values, technological advancements, and artistic tastes of their times. In this journey through history, we will explore the evolution of courtyards from their humble beginnings to their modern interpretations, highlighting their significance and enduring charm.

Ancient Origins
The concept of courtyards dates back to ancient civilizations, where they emerged as practical solutions to address the challenges of urban living. In ancient Mesopotamia, as early as 4,000 BCE, residents built homes with central open spaces to facilitate ventilation and provide a source of light. These early courtyards not only served as gathering areas but also played a crucial role in regulating temperature within the structures.

Egyptian architecture also embraced the courtyard as an integral part of their designs. The ancient Egyptians utilized courtyards as private oases, often featuring gardens and pools surrounded by residential or religious structures. These courtyards symbolized fertility, rebirth, and the connection between life and the afterlife.

Greco-Roman Influence
The Greek and Roman civilizations further developed the concept of courtyards, integrating them into various building types. The peristyle, a colonnaded courtyard surrounded by columns, became a defining feature of ancient Roman villas and public buildings. This architectural innovation blended functionality with aesthetics, offering shaded areas for relaxation and socializing while emphasizing the visual appeal of symmetry and proportion.

Medieval Retreats
As societies transitioned into the medieval era, courtyards continued to evolve. In Europe, monasteries and castles featured cloister courtyards, enclosed areas with covered walkways surrounding gardens. These courtyards served as peaceful sanctuaries for monks and residents alike, where they could contemplate, meditate, and engage in other religious activities away from the bustling outside world.

Renaissance Elegance
The Renaissance period witnessed a revival of interest in classical architectural principles, and courtyards played a significant role in this resurgence. Palaces and grand residences of the Renaissance embraced the concept of the “courtyard house,” where a central courtyard acted as the focal point of the building. These courtyards were adorned with sculptures, fountains, and intricate architectural details, showcasing the wealth and cultural refinement of the patrons.

Courtyards Around the World
As exploration and trade expanded, courtyards found their way into various cultures worldwide. Islamic architecture, for example, perfected the art of the courtyard, creating intricate designs known for their geometric patterns, lush gardens, and tranquil reflecting pools. The Alhambra in Spain and the courtyard houses of Morocco exemplify the enduring allure of Islamic courtyard design.

In East Asia, traditional Chinese architecture incorporated courtyards into the layout of siheyuan, enclosed compounds where multiple buildings surrounded a central courtyard. These structures emphasized privacy, family unity, and the harmonious integration of human habitation with nature.

Modern Interpretations
In the modern era, the concept of courtyards has expanded beyond residential and religious contexts. Urban planners and architects recognize the value of these spaces in densely populated areas, fostering a sense of community, providing natural light, and improving ventilation. Modern courtyards can be found in commercial buildings, educational institutions, and even public spaces, each with a unique interpretation that blends functionality with contemporary design sensibilities.

From ancient civilizations to modern times, courtyards have maintained their relevance and allure as architectural elements that harmonize human habitation with the natural world. The evolution of courtyards showcases the adaptability of this design concept to different cultural, social, and technological contexts. As we continue to appreciate their beauty and functionality, courtyards remain a testament to the enduring connection between architecture, nature, and human well-being.

Are you looking for your own “courtyard house”? Properties on the Potomac can help. Give us a call at 703-624-8333 to find your outdoor oasis today!

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A lush green lawn has long been a symbol of a well-maintained home and a source of pride for many homeowners. However, traditional lawns can require significant resources like water, fertilizer, and regular mowing, which can be environmentally unsustainable and costly in the long run.

The DC Metro region is in hardiness zone 7 (as defined by the USDA), which means we have moderate winters and hot summers. Those hot summers are not conducive to growing grass without large amounts of water, which can be expensive and likely won’t be sustainable for the long-term. Embracing alternative lawns can offer a more sustainable and ecologically responsible solution, while still providing a beautiful outdoor space.

The Benefits of Alternative Lawns
Before diving into specific alternative lawn options, let’s understand the benefits they offer:

1. Water Conservation: Alternative lawns require significantly less water than traditional grass lawns, reducing your water consumption and lowering your water bill.

2. Low Maintenance: Many alternative lawns require minimal maintenance compared to traditional grass lawns. Say goodbye to frequent mowing, fertilizing, and weed control.

3. Biodiversity and Pollinators: Some alternative lawns support a diverse array of native plants, attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, thereby contributing to the local ecosystem.

4. Drought Resistance: Alternative lawns often have deep root systems, making them more resilient to drought conditions.

5. Reduced Chemical Use: With less need for fertilizers and pesticides, alternative lawns reduce the use of harmful chemicals that can negatively impact the environment and kill/detract pollinators

Alternative Lawn Options
Now that you know the benefits…what are the options?

1. Native Grasses: Utilizing native grass species is a smart choice as they are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. Some native grass options include Little Bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum), and Eastern Gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides). These grasses offer a natural and low-maintenance look while supporting local biodiversity.

2. Clover Lawns: White clover (Trifolium repens) is an excellent alternative to traditional grass lawns. It is nitrogen-fixing, which means it takes nitrogen from the air and stores it in the soil, enriching it naturally. Clover lawns stay green during dry spells and require less mowing.

3. Moss Lawns: Moss lawns are a perfect solution for shaded areas where grass struggles to grow. Moss is a low-maintenance ground cover that adds a lush green carpet to your garden. It thrives in moist, shady environments and is incredibly drought tolerant.

4. Buffalo Grass: Buffalo grass (Buchloe dactyloides) is native to the Great Plains and is well-suited to our climate. It requires little water and minimal mowing, making it an ideal option for those seeking a natural look with minimal maintenance.

5. Perennial Ground Covers: Many perennial ground cover plants like creeping thyme, sedum, and creeping Jenny can create a dense and attractive carpet in your lawn. They are low growing, require little maintenance, and add texture and color to your landscape.

6. Artificial Turf: While not a natural option, artificial turf can be considered as an alternative for those who desire a green lawn appearance without the need for watering or mowing. High-quality artificial turf can withstand pets and stay green all year long.

7. No-Mow Lawn Mixes: No-mow lawn mixes consist of a blend of low-growing, slow-growing grasses and ground covers that require infrequent mowing. These mixes offer a lawn-like appearance while significantly reducing maintenance.

Transitioning to an alternative lawn can be a transformative experience for both your landscape and the environment. By reducing water consumption, minimizing chemical use, and supporting local biodiversity, you contribute to a more sustainable and ecologically responsible way of living. Whether you choose native grasses, clover, moss, or any other alternative lawn option, you’re making a positive impact on the planet while still enjoying a beautiful outdoor space to relax and unwind.

If you’re inspired by the idea of embracing an alternative lawn and making your outdoor space more sustainable, Properties on the Potoamac can help you find the perfect property that suits your vision. Call us today at 703-624-8333 to get started.

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When it comes to creating an outdoor living area, two popular options are decks and patios. Both offer unique advantages and can enhance the beauty and functionality of your home. However, understanding the differences between decks and patios is essential for making an informed decision. Let’s help you determine the perfect outdoor space for your home by comparing decks and patios, discussing their characteristics, benefits, and considerations.

1. Materials and Construction:

Decks are typically constructed using wood or composite materials, such as vinyl or PVC. They are elevated structures that can be attached to the house or built as freestanding units. Patios, on the other hand, are typically made of concrete, brick, pavers, or stone. They are ground-level structures that can be installed directly on the ground or built onto a base. The choice of materials will depend on your aesthetic preferences, budget, and desired level of maintenance.

2. Cost and Installation:

When it comes to cost, decks tend to be more expensive than patios. The materials used for decks, especially hardwood or composite decking, can be pricier. Additionally, the need for structural support, like footings and beams, can add to the overall cost. Patios, on the other hand, are generally more affordable since they involve less complex construction and materials. However, costs can vary depending on the type of material chosen for the patio surface.

3. Design and Aesthetics:

Decks offer a versatile design range and can be customized to fit your specific preferences. They can be built at various heights, allowing for multi-level designs, and can incorporate features like built-in seating, railings, and stairs. Decks also provide an elevated view, making them ideal for homes with scenic surroundings. Patios, on the other hand, offer a wide array of design options using different materials, patterns, and layouts. They can be seamlessly integrated into the ground and can accommodate various shapes and sizes, making them adaptable to different landscape styles. If privacy is what you seek, a patio behind a privacy fence or hedge might be the right call for you.

4. Durability and Maintenance:

Decks require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity. Wood decks need periodic sealing or staining to protect them from weathering and insect damage. Composite decks are generally more durable and require less maintenance but may still need occasional cleaning. Patios, on the other hand, are known for their durability and require minimal upkeep. Regular cleaning and sealing of the patio surface may be necessary, depending on the material used, but overall, patios tend to be more resistant to wear and tear.

5. Local Regulations and Restrictions:

Before deciding between a deck and a patio, it’s important to check local regulations and restrictions. Some neighborhoods or homeowner associations may have specific guidelines on the construction and appearance of outdoor structures. Obtain any necessary permits and ensure compliance with building codes before proceeding with your project.

Choosing between a deck and a patio depends on your personal preferences, budget, maintenance capabilities, and the specific characteristics of your home and location. Decks offer versatility and elevated views, while patios provide durability and privacy. Both offer a range of design options. Consider the amount of maintenance you’re willing to undertake and any local regulations to make an informed decision. Whether you opt for a deck or a patio, both can create an inviting outdoor space that allows you to relax, entertain, and enjoy the beauty of nature right at your doorstep.

But before you take on any expensive project, make sure it is worth the investment. Give Properties on the Potomac a call at 703-624-8333 to discuss your options.

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Your home’s landscaping plays a significant role in creating a welcoming atmosphere and enhancing curb appeal. From vibrant flower beds to lush green lawns, a well-maintained garden can instantly elevate your property’s aesthetics. One crucial aspect of plant care, often overlooked, is watering. Let’s dive into how watering your plants, including established landscaping, not only contributes to curb appeal but also helps maintain and even increase your home’s value.

  1. Preserving Vibrancy and Health: Regular watering is essential for the health and vitality of your plants. Even established landscaping requires adequate moisture to thrive. When plants receive sufficient water, their foliage remains vibrant and lush, creating an eye-catching display for passersby and potential buyers. Neglecting watering can lead to wilted leaves, browning foliage, and overall diminished curb appeal.
  2. Enhancing Curb Appeal: Curb appeal is crucial when it comes to attracting potential buyers or simply impressing your neighbors. A well-maintained garden showcases your attention to detail and demonstrates pride in homeownership. Regular watering ensures your plants remain robust, colorful, and full, making your property stand out in the neighborhood. A visually appealing exterior creates a positive first impression, which can significantly impact the perceived value of your home.
  3. Protecting Long-Term Investments: Landscaping is an investment in your home’s value. A thoughtfully designed and properly cared-for garden can increase your property’s worth over time. Regular watering helps protect this investment by preserving the health and longevity of your plants. Neglecting watering can lead to plant loss, requiring costly replacements and potentially compromising the overall aesthetic appeal of your landscaping. By maintaining proper moisture levels, you safeguard the value of your home and ensure a beautiful outdoor space for years to come.
  4. Watering Best Practices: To maximize the benefits of watering, it’s essential to follow a few best practices:
    – Deep Watering: Rather than light sprinkling, focus on deep watering sessions. This encourages plants to develop deep root systems, making them more resilient to drought conditions.
    – Timing Matters: Water your plants early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. This allows the water to penetrate the soil effectively, reaching the roots where it’s needed most.
    – Consistency is Key: Establish a regular watering schedule based on the specific needs of your plants and the climate in your area. Consistency ensures that plants receive the necessary hydration without overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other issues.
    – Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around your plants to help retain moisture in the soil. Mulch also acts as an insulator, protecting roots from extreme temperatures.

Watering your plants, including established landscaping, is an integral part of maintaining curb appeal and preserving your home’s value. By providing adequate moisture, you promote healthy growth, vibrant colors, and a visually appealing outdoor space. Investing time and effort into proper plant care will pay dividends in the form of an attractive home exterior and increased property value.

Ready to enhance your home’s curb appeal and maximize its value? Contact our experienced real estate team at 703-624-8333 today for expert advice and assistance with buying or selling properties. Let’s make your real estate dreams a reality!

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I recently showed a home that was set slightly below the road. I was immediately apprehensive.

Obviously not all homes can be built at the top of a hill—if they were, neighborhoods would look more like tiny Tuscan villages. But whenever a house is set below the road or otherwise at the bottom of a hill, you have to worry about water. Maybe the Tuscans had the right idea—they were protected from invaders and water.

Real estate pictures tend to only show the positive attributes of a home, and many times these photos don’t show the house in relation to the surrounding topography. If only technology came with a scratch and sniff feature, we could easily tell if incoming water was an issue without having to be in the home.

The basement of this home proved my suspicions correct—it had previously had a problem with water intrusion. How did I know for sure? It had been professionally waterproofed. In the unfinished portion of the basement, along two of the perimeter walls, there was concrete repair and a little piece of plastic that sticks out around the edge. These are telltale signs a waterproofing company had trenched around the interior perimeter of the basement and installed a drainage system that empties into a sump pump. The sump pump then pumps the water out and away from the house.

Now the home seems dry, but it will be something that a future homeowner will need to monitor in the future, and it’s definitely something you should know when considering purchasing a house.

If you ever do have issues with water coming into your home, here are some remedies:

  1. If there is a sump pump installed, make sure it is working properly. You might also want to consider installing a backup battery on the sump pump in case of power outages.
  2. If there are exterior stairs to the basement with a drain at the bottom, that drain must always be kept clear. At the very least, install an elevated drain cover to keep leaves and debris from covering it completely. If possible, consider building a roof over top of the stairs, to direct water away.

3. Extend downspouts away from the home. This can be done hrough a gutter extension kit (either above ground or dig a trench and extend it underground). A rain barrel is another good option, just make sure that the overflow extends away from the home.

4. Landscaping should be slightly elevated and sloped away from the foundation. Aside from the aesthetic, foundation flower beds serve an important purpose. They not only direct water away from the home, but the plants also help absorb any remaining water.

5. Put a cover over any window wells. You can purchase an inexpensive plastic cover from your local hardware store. They come in multiple sizes and shapes depending on what you need. If the window well is in a more prominent part of your home you, you can have a custom one made that is more aesthetically pleasing.

6. Apply a sealant to the interior foundation walls. Interior sealants are not a permanent solution but can help keep humidity levels down in the lower level.

7. Have the home professionally waterproofed. This is an effective, long-term solution to move water away from the foundation of the home.

It is extremely important to keep your home dry. Damp basements can lead to mold and mold can travel through the ductwork of your home, creating a toxic health hazard.

If you have any questions about keeping water out of your basement, reach out to us at 703-624-8333. Properties on the Potomac can help guide you to the right contractor.

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By Andrea Justus, Properties on the Potomac Realtor

It’s that time of year: the time to plan your garden and start seeds. Vegetable gardening is easy and fun and the prep starts eight weeks prior to planting time. In Northern Virginia, planting time is generally the weekend of Mother’s Day. Although beautiful Spring days are tempting, I have “early planted” and lost a garden or two due to late season snow and cold snaps. I now am a firm advocate of Mother’s Day planting.   

Seeds can be planted directly into the ground for items like spinach, radishes, beets and herbs, as long as the ground is 50 degrees. For non-leafy vegetables, it’s important to start your plants early to get a jump on the growing season. I start tomatoes, eggplant, okra, cucumbers, squash and pumpkins in early March so that by early May the plants are large and healthy enough to withstand weather and insects and flourish. (For pumpkins, you can also sow the seeds in the ground in June for pumpkins in Fall.) March is also a good time to start flowers like Astilbe, Dahlias, and Croscomia. By starting in March, the flowers will bloom early and throughout summer.

What is the best method for starting seeds? There are many approaches, from dirt in a cup to seed-starting trays with heating pads and overhead lights. I make my own seed-starting blend with a Miracle Grow soil, worm castings, vermiculite and peat moss mixture. The mix is approximately 5 parts soil, two parts worm castings, one part vermiculite and a handful of peat moss. This gives the seeds an airy and nutritious start. You can use seed-starting trays or mini pots available at most gardening stores. Solo cups in trays also work well. I start mine in the basement next to the door so they get natural light. I use solar blankets on the ground and behind the seed table to capture any warmth and sunlight available.

Once the seed starts come up, I transfer them to larger cups and plant them deeper. Sometimes more than one transplant is needed. Water lightly every other day so that the soil is slightly damp, not wet. A gentle hand is critical to transferring the seed starts. Plan on starting more seeds than you need plants so that it’s not a crisis if you break a tender shoot. About 2 weeks before planting, start hardening off the plants by putting them outside. Start with an hour or two and gradually increase the time outside. You can also cover the plants while they are outside with burlap to keep them from being wind and sun burned. Once the plants are hardened, get ready to plant your garden in early May. I like to plant and fertilize with Abernethy and Spencer’s TLC. It gets healthy plants off to a roaring start!

I enjoy gardening and sharing the fruits of my labor with others! If you know me, you know I’m a plant person. Happy Gardening!

Need help figuring out the best landscaping for resale value? Reach out to Properties on the Potomac at
703-624-8333 now!

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If you think of the word “cottage,” what do you see?  Do you envision images of warmth, coziness, and flowers climbing on front porches? Or maybe a smaller, less ornate house, and a lifestyle of tranquility and serenity.

A cottage may look different depending on the beholder, but one thing that is certain is that the term describes a category of house and a lifestyle rather than an architectural style.

Historically, the term was used to denote more than charm and tranquility. During the Gilded Age in Newport, Rhode Island, the “Summer Cottages” were anything but today’s typical image of a cottage. There, the opulent and sumptuously appointed summer retreats were built to outshine one another among the wealthy elite during the summer months of vacationing and partying.

Today, the term has evolved to denote a quaint, cozy, charming, smaller house, often in a more rural setting, although cottages can be found in some cities as well. There are thatched-roof cottages in the English countryside, Tudor-style cottages on both sides of the Atlantic, and even fairy tale cottages in, well, fairy tales. Among the more famous cottages is Green Gables of Anne of Green Gables fame.

But the history of the word goes back even further than Gilded Age New England: according to Southern Living writer Maggie Burch, “The term ‘cottage’ and the house style most closely associated with it originated in England during the Middle Ages. Peasant farmers were known as “cotters,” and their modest, rural homes came to be called cottages. Even today, a cottage-style house in the U.K. has the same description it did hundreds of years ago—the homes are simple dwellings meant to fight off the cold, typically with one large living room downstairs and two bedrooms upstairs, under a thatched roof.” The house in the Cotswolds featured in the movie, The Holiday, is the quintessential English cottage.

Today, there are a variety of cottage styles in the U.S.

The “Coastal Cottage” denotes being near the beach. Massachusetts and Connecticut have a great many of these charming homes. The architectural term “Cape Cod” is a cottage style associated with Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. The clapboard siding, the red brick chimneys, their meandering walkways, and charming flower-covered fences evoke a longing for innocence.

The “English Cottage,” with its thatched roof and overgrown gardens and open spaces, will be found in the English countryside. (Designing an overgrown garden in many newer communities in our areas could invoke the wrath of homeowners’ associations.)

“Creole Cottages” have evolved from New Orleans and the “Low Country.” They are often narrow, have front porches, and covered outdoor living areas. They are light and breezy: picture white gauze curtains billowing in the breeze.

A “bungalow” can be a cottage. Its defining features are a sloping roof, dormer windows, and an overhanging porch. This style of house can be found throughout the U.S., from Craftsman post-and-beam construction to brick bungalows with horizontal dormers found in the Chicago area.

What are the key elements of the cottage? Outside, they will have natural building material – callboard and/or wood shingles all set amid casual and lush landscapes. The interior elements of the cottage will feature lush textiles, pillows, rugs, curtains, blankets, and comfortable furniture. Fireplaces, nooks, and cozy kitchens are hallmarks of the style.

In our local real estate market, many homeowners love the cottage style. Although recent trends have been minimalistic in shades of gray; cottage-style homes with their cozy elements have resold quickly –  many over list price. Cottage style tugs at the heartstrings, offering the dream of intimate and quiet family times.

In search of your diamond-in-the-rough cottage? Contact Properties on the Potomac at 703-624-8333 today!