Practical landscaping and outdoor care tips from Hector & Iris Ortega — written for Northern Virginia and DC Metro properties.
Water pooling by the foundation or soggy beds below a downspout? How to trace roof runoff, how far to move it, and when a buried drain line is the cleaner fix.
Read ArticleMost retaining walls fail from poor drainage or a weak base. What holds a wall on a Northern Virginia slope, from compacted gravel to drain pipe and permits.
Read MoreDC Metro winters leave lawns stressed, compacted, and hungry for nutrients. Here's the sequence that sets your lawn up for a strong season.
Read MoreMulch too thin and it does nothing. Too thick and it kills your plants. Here's what professional landscapers actually do.
Read MoreTree removal is irreversible. Here's how to make the decision correctly, and the signs that indicate a tree is past saving.
Read MoreMost hardscaping regret comes from decisions made before the shovel hits the ground. Here's how to get the planning right.
Read MoreCutting height, frequency, blade sharpness, and mowing pattern all affect lawn health more than most people realize.
Read MoreWhat you do — and don't do — to your landscape in fall has a bigger impact on next year's results than most spring work.
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