Blog

July 7, 2023

Phragmites Management and Wetland Restoration [VIDEO]

You are probably familiar with Phragmites australis. It is now ubiquitous in our region’s wetlands, displacing the beloved native cattail. Phragmites is an exotic invasive plant that reproduces by both rhizome and seed, easily outcompeting wetland natives. But, does it serve any purpose? Non-native phragmites in our native wetlands is not such a black-and-white invasive tale. Introduction to Wetland Restoration 

Read More
May 18, 2023

Landscape Design for a Shady Slope in Westchester, NY

Constraints become a catalyst for creativity in this Hastings-on-Hudson property. The small, angular backyard is dominated by the existing slope, a mature tree canopy, and the surrounding fence. One can view these traits negatively — steepness, shade, and things to screen – or as opportunities. We chose the latter. Steepness was tempered with terraces; shade was lightened through strategic tree 

Read More
May 15, 2023

Ecological Landscape Design Explained [VIDEO]

Ecological Landscape Design is a design perspective that views all landscapes as part of a greater, interconnected ecosystem. No matter the size of the garden or property, what we design, plant, and maintain has a ripple effect on the surrounding environment and broader ecosystem health. In the below video, Jay Archer explains our objectives as ecological landscape designers to use 

Read More
May 15, 2023

Design a Pollinator Rain Garden for Ecosystem Services [VIDEO]

Rain gardens are a valuable piece of green infrastructure that belong on every property! Rain gardens are designed and strategically sited in a landscape to disrupt and absorb stormwater sheet flow before it pollutes other bodies of water. Case Study: Wainwright House, Rye, NY In this video, Jay discuses a 2022 community service project we worked on with Rye High 

Read More
April 13, 2023

Native Plant Landscaping Trends for 2023

Native plants have experienced a PR glow up in the last few years, graduating from their “weedy” classification to pillars of the ecological landscaping movement. Grassroots organizations have been pivotal in changing the narrative around plant selection. Thanks to groups like National Audubon Society, the National Wildlife Fund, Pollinator Pathways, and Doug Tallamy’s Homegrown National Park, there is greater public 

Read More