Posts

The Top Choice Austin Landscaping Blog

Is rain water better for our landscape than irrigation water?

By Nolan Gore / July 30, 2024

It is all just water, right? Turns out – not all water is created equal. Rainwater is actually better for your landscape than irrigation water. Yes – you heard me correctly. Water from the sky is better for your lawn, plants, lawn gnomes and trees than the water from your pipes. Before I explain why…irrigation…

Read More

Live Oaks in Central Texas: Facts & Stories

By Nolan Gore / July 15, 2024

Surrounded by massive live oaks – that was my childhood. My parents moved to Austin in the 1980s. They decided to buy the house before they stepped inside. It was the oaks that made the decision for them. Century oaks. Gnarled and bent. Big and grumpy. Long and horizontal. I got to know these trees…

Read More

Texas Live Oak: Quercus fusiformis and Quercus Virginiana

By Nolan Gore / July 15, 2024

What are the differences between the Quercus Virginiana and Quercus Fusiformus? These are two species of trees that are very closely related. In fact, the Fusiformus used to be considered a variance of the Virginiana but is now considered its own species. You ca

Read More

How to retain water in your landscape

By Nolan Gore / June 27, 2024

Despite consistent watering, your grass and plants are likely showing the strain of a long, hot Austin summer. What can you do? Luckily we’ve still got a few tricks up our sleeves to retain water — saving whatever moisture we can so your ground and plants don’t dry up. 1. Don’t waste water: inspect your irrigation…

Read More

Why Do You Need Mulch?

By Nolan Gore / June 20, 2024

Why do you need mulch in your flower beds? Especially here in Austin? To answer this question I went through several possible acronyms to describe why you need mulch. I ended up with… SIPS! (PISS didn’t seem like it was appropriate – though it may have been more memorable). Here’s why you need high-quality, native,…

Read More

How to Trim Live Oak Trees (and Prevent Oak Wilt)

By Nolan Gore / June 14, 2024

At the time of writing this blog, it’s almost time to trim live oak trees in Austin. Watch our video below or read on to learn why and how you should trim live oaks—and how to prevent that nasty Oak Wilt! Why trim live oak trees First…why should you trim your live oak trees in…

Read More

Multi-Stream Nozzles for More Efficient Irrigation

By The Top Choice Team / June 7, 2024

As you prepare your sprinkler system for the growing season, it’s worth considering an upgrade to multi-stream nozzles. These innovative nozzles can save water, improve coverage, and operate more effectively in low-pressure situations. Scott Ingalls, irrigation manager at Top Choice Lawn Care, explains the benefits of multi-stream nozzles and why they might be a smart…

Read More

Adjusting Sprinkler Spray Pattern for Optimal Coverage

By The Top Choice Team / May 23, 2024

As you get your irrigation system up and running this spring, it’s important to check that your heads are providing proper coverage (i.e. adjusting your sprinkler spray pattern). Misaligned or clogged nozzles can lead to brown spots in some areas and overwatering in others. Here are some tips from Scott Ingalls, irrigation manager at Top…

Read More

Spotting and Fixing Irrigation Leaks this Spring

By The Top Choice Team / May 14, 2024

As you fire up your sprinkler system for the first time this spring, it’s important to check for any leaks that may have developed over the winter. Catching and repairing leaks early can save water and money and prevent damage to your landscape. Here are some tips from Scott Ingalls, irrigation manager at Top Choice…

Read More

Time for some spring weed control?

By Nolan Gore / April 30, 2024

Are weeds living their best life in your yard? Every spring we get a ton of calls! Why? In this article we’ve identified the primary causes of this problem and we are here to help. Watch the quick video below or read on to get those weeds under control! Are we getting more weeds this year?…

Read More