The GardenOwl Audits
Deep-dive diagnostics, design critiques, and visual master plans to solve your toughest landscape challenges.
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Tropical Driveway Design in Zone 8a: How to Avoid the 'Winter Mud Pit' Look
Love tropical plants but live in Zone 8a? Here is how to landscape a long driveway with exotic foliage that won't turn into a mushy mess in winter.
Stop Mowing That Rocky Slope: Turning a “Nightmare” Hill Into a Rock Garden
Is your rocky slope ruining your mower? Stop fighting nature. Here’s how to turn a patchy, dangerous hill into a lush, maintenance-free rock garden.
Small Patio Mistakes: Skip the Excavator and the Loose Decomposed Granite
Planning a small backyard patio? Learn why heavy machinery is overkill, why loose DG is a mess for dogs, and how to build a cottage-style flagstone patio.
Pool Placement Strategy: Why You Should Keep the Patio and Dig the Side Yard
Debating where to put a pool? Learn why keeping your existing pavers and using the narrow side yard is the smarter, money-saving move for this layout.
New Pavers Look Sloppy? Why You Aren't Being Nitpicky (And How to Fix It)
Spotting bad paver installation: low sand, uneven bricks, and messy concrete edging. Here is how to check your contractor's work before you pay the final bill.
Installing a Fence Before the Neighbor's House is Finished? Read This First
Planning a fence next to new construction? Wait until the grading is done. Here is how to avoid drainage disasters, buried wood, and expensive rework.