Be Ready For Snow & Ice

Snowflake graphic
Not All Salts Are Created Equal 

Ice 2We’ve got good news and bad news for you. The good news, there is no prediction of winter precipitation in the near future. The bad news, It will get here sooner or later. Like it or not, winter weather is coming and you need to be prepared.

  

One of the questions our customers ask us the most is “Which ice melting products should we use”? Some products melt ice better than others, some are safe on concrete and some are not, and which ones will not harm plants. To give you the answer, we took a trip to Home Depot to see which products are readily available.
Blizzard Wizard  – At the very least, this product wins the competition for catchy name. It is available in a 40 pound bag and in a smaller, more manageable shaker container. Blizzard Wizard Ice Melt is a traditional ice melter encapsulated with liquid magnesium and a proprietary formula to provide an environmentally friendly product with very little dilution. Cost is $8.97 for the 40 pound bag.
Ice 1Halite Salt Crystals – This product is available in a 50 pound bag and is made up of Sodium Chloride. It may be harmful to plants and corrosive to concrete if used too heavily. Cost is $6.98 per bag.
Mortons Safe T Pet – This product is made from urea and has no salt of chloride. it is labeled safe for pets, people, plants and surfaces. Cost is $11.98 for an 8 pound container.
No matter which product you choose, here are a few precautions to follow:
De-icer Precautions

·         Do not over apply, follow instructions on the label.

·         Do not try to melt everything. Clear snow first.

·         Wear gloves. Ice melts are an irritant.

·         Do not use on new concrete that has not fully cured.

·         All products have some effect on the environment. Flush area with water if over-use is suspected or damage appears on plants.

How Much Does Landscaping Increase Home Value?

First Impressions Matter—A Lot When someone pulls up to your home, what do they see first? It’s not your new kitchen. Not the bathroom remodel. It’s your landscaping. Front yards, walkways, trees, and plant beds—they all create an immediate impression. And if you’re wondering, Does landscaping increase home value? The short answer is yes. The longer answer? It depends on what you do, how well it’s done, and how consistently it’s maintained. Let’s break it down so you can make

READ MORE »

Can Too Much Water Kill Landscape Plants

It’s a common scene: the hose is on, the sprinkler is going, and the plants are getting their daily drink. But here’s the thing—too much of a good thing can become a problem. Can too much water kill landscape plants? Yes, it absolutely can. In fact, overwatering is one of the most common (and most misunderstood) causes of plant decline in home landscapes. Homeowners often mean well, but those extra soakings might be slowly drowning your plants. Knowing when to

READ MORE »

Top June Garden Tips: Keeping Your Landscape Healthy Through Early Summer

Top June garden tips start with recognizing that June brings the official start of summer—and with it, longer days, warmer temperatures, and the need for consistent garden care. Plants are in full growth mode, flowers are blooming, and lawns are growing fast. With just a bit of maintenance and attention, you can help your garden thrive through the season. Here are your Top June Garden Tips to stay on top of summer gardening tasks. 1. Water Deeply and Consistently By

READ MORE »

Honoring Service: Volunteering at Renewal & Remembrance at Arlington National Cemetery

This blog is being reposted in honor of Memorial Day and in remembrance of the brave men and women interred at Arlington National Cemetery. We share this story as a tribute to their sacrifice and to highlight how our team at Allentuck Landscaping Co. gives back through service. On July 18, 2022, the Allentuck Landscaping Co. team had the distinct honor of participating in Renewal & Remembrance at Arlington National Cemetery—an annual event that brings together landscape and lawn care

READ MORE »

10 Things to Get Your Home Ready for Summer

Summer’s right around the corner—and with it comes sunshine, outdoor fun, and longer days. But before you fire up the grill or invite friends over for a backyard get-together, take a moment to get your home ready for summer. A little prep now can help you stay cool, comfortable, and carefree when the temperatures climb. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or tackling seasonal maintenance for the first time, these 10 tips will make sure your house is set up for

READ MORE »

What’s the Best Surface to Have Around a Pool?

Designing your dream pool is exciting—but don’t forget the space around it. The surface you choose matters more than you think. It affects how safe your pool area is. How comfortable it feels. And how much maintenance you’ll need to do. So, what’s the best surface to have around a pool? Whether you’re building a new pool or refreshing an old one, this guide will walk you through the best options available—helping you find the right fit for your home,

READ MORE »