The GardenOwl Audits
Deep-dive diagnostics, design critiques, and visual master plans to solve your toughest landscape challenges.
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Tree vs. Fence: How to Save a Ponytail Palm Without Destroying Your Boundary
Is a massive Ponytail Palm crushing your fence? Don't cut the tree. Learn the 'Box-Out' framing technique to save the specimen and fix the boundary.
Why Your Lawn Looks Like Clumps (And Why Fertilizer Won't Fix It)
Is your grass growing in isolated mounds with bare dirt in between? Learn why 'Bunch-Grass Isolation' happens and how to fix it by overseeding.
Fixing the 'Motel' Look: How to Anchor a Floating House Without Remodeling
Does your long, flat house look like a motel? Stop planning a roof renovation. Learn how to fix 'The Floating Facade' with structural planting and soft engineering.
Why Poking Holes in Clay Won't Save Your Lawn (And What Will)
Manual aeration isn't enough for heavy clay soil. Learn why you must topdress immediately to fix compaction and how to manage shade in Southern California.
The "High Pour" Trap: Why Concrete Against Vents is a Major Defect
Contractor poured concrete over your foundation vents? Learn why bridging the DPC causes rot and termites, and how to fix this expensive mistake.
Why Planting Trees in a Narrow Side Yard is a Mistake (And What to Do Instead)
Trying to block a neighbor's view from a narrow side yard? Learn why planting trees in a 5-foot gap damages your home and what to use for instant privacy.