The GardenOwl Audits
Deep-dive diagnostics, design critiques, and visual master plans to solve your toughest landscape challenges.
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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.
Stop Pushing Your Roof Tiles Back: How to Fix Tight Gutters Without Causing Leaks
Can't get your hands in your gutters? Pushing roof tiles back creates leaks and rot. Here is the correct fix for tight gutter access.
Why Your Green Lawn Turned Brown After Mowing (It’s Not Dead, It’s Legs)
Is your Couch or Bermuda grass stiff and brown after mowing? You aren't killing it—you're revealing its woody stems. Here is the mowing schedule to fix it.