We Give, Because They Gave

allentuck landscaping team in high viz
We Give, Because They Gave
Abraham Lincoln called it “the last full measure of devotion”. He said this in the Gettysburg Address and was referring to a soldier giving his life for his country. It was in respect of his words that Allentuck Landscaping Co. took part in Renewal and Remembrance at Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) this week, an annual event sponsored by The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) in which 450 landscape contractors from all across the country come to Washington, at their own expense, to spend a day of service caring for America’s most hallowed piece of ground.
I had a unique perspective on the day as I have the honor of being the event’s chairman. This was Allentuck Landscaping Co.’s seventh year volunteering, and this year we were represented well by eleven members of our staff and families. It was a typical hot and humid Washington day, but that did not deter anyone on our eager team.
The day started with an opening ceremony complete with full color guard. I had the privilege of welcoming everyone to our town. ANC Executive Director Hallinan spoke of the meaning of Arlington and what our work meant to the cemetery and the families that visit there. Finally, we heard from Bob Brophy, owner of one of our equipment vendor companies and a Vietnam Veteran. He spoke of his time in service, the friends that he lost, and a deeper meaning of the day ahead of us. It was an inspiring start.
In all, our volunteers limed and aerated massive acreage of turf, installed lightning protect and support cables in trees, upgraded irrigation systems, and planted two gardens to protect drainage swales. Suppliers donated three tractor trailers of lime and dozens of pieces of equipment. While we worked, young children of our volunteers enjoyed tours of the facility, a wreath laying at the Tomb of the Unkowns, and got to plant tree saplings and ornamental grasses. We completed close to $250,000 worth of work in one morning! To say I am proud of my staff, our peers and our industry would be an understatement.
It only seems appropriate to say thank you to you, our customers, for allowing us to be a successful business and to have the opportunity to take part in meaningful service such as this. Thank you.
Very Best, 
Bruce Allentuck

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 »

The Gardening 3 Year Rule: What It Is and Why It Matters

You’ve planted. You’ve watered. You’ve dreamed of a lush, vibrant garden that turns heads and brings you joy every time you step outside.But after a year, things look… underwhelming. Sparse blooms. Thin growth. Disappointment creeping in. Relax. You’re not failing. Your garden is just following the Gardening 3 Year Rule. This simple but powerful idea explains how most plants behave over time—and why patience is one of your most valuable gardening tools. If you’re planning a new landscape or refreshing

READ MORE »

Top May Garden Tips: Helping Your Landscape Thrive in Late Spring

May is a magical time in the garden. Flowers are blooming, vegetables are growing, and everything seems to burst with life. As the weather warms up, your landscape needs regular care to stay healthy and vibrant. These Top May Garden Tips will help you keep your garden looking its best as spring transitions into summer. 1. Stay on Top of Weeding and Mulching With warm temperatures and sunny days, weeds can take over quickly. Weed Weekly: Regularly pull weeds before

READ MORE »

8 Best Low Maintenance Landscape Plants

Landscaping doesn’t have to mean constant pruning, watering, and worrying. In fact, choosing the best low maintenance landscape plants can save you time, money, and weekend headaches—while still making your yard look amazing. Whether you’re planting a new bed, refreshing an old one, or just want to spend less time doing yard work, these reliable plants deliver big beauty with minimal effort. Let’s dive into the top picks that thrive with less fuss. What Makes a Plant “Low Maintenance”? Low

READ MORE »

How Do I Fix Bad Drainage in My Yard?

Water should be a blessing for your yard — not a headache. But when every rainstorm leaves behind puddles, soggy spots, or even erosion, it’s a clear sign there’s a bigger issue. Bad drainage in my yard is something no homeowner wants to deal with, but the good news is, it’s fixable. With the right strategies, you can protect your landscape, your home, and your peace of mind. Let’s dive into exactly how to spot the problem, understand what’s causing

READ MORE »