The GardenOwl Audits
Deep-dive diagnostics, design critiques, and visual master plans to solve your toughest landscape challenges.
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New Windows Don't Match the Door? Why You Should Stop Trying to 'Match' Everything
Do your new windows look washed out next to your front door? Learn the 'Rule of Three' to tie your exterior colors together without repainting the frames.
Building on Red Clay: Why Slabs Fail Near Drainage Ditches and How to Fix It
Building on a wet clay lot near a drainage channel? Don't pour a slab. Learn why pier and beam foundations and native screening are your best defense.
Removing Exterior Steps: Why Salvaging Brick is a Trap and How to Avoid Foundation Leaks
Planning to demo exterior steps? Learn why reusing old brick fails, how to prevent foundation damage, and the 'toothing' technique you need.
Why Your Retaining Wall Has a Trench (The Scour & Void Pattern) and How to Fix It
Is a trench forming next to your retaining wall? Learn why adding dirt won't fix the 'Scour & Void' pattern and how to armor your slope with river rock.
Don't Bury That Drain: Why Covering Catch Basins Kills Your New Lawn
Planning to turf over an old drain? Stop. Learn why burying a catch basin causes flooding and how to raise the grade correctly with a simple riser.
Why Your Winter Rosemary Will Survive (But Your Lavender Might Not)
Planted Rosemary in winter? Don't panic. Learn how foundation microclimates protect them and why 'wet feet' is the real killer in Zone 8.