Shrubs and Trees

• November is an ideal time to plant or transplant trees, shrubs and fruit crops. Be sure to water thoroughly, then mulch newly planted plants with a good 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch. Newly planted evergreens should be checked regularly during the winter to ensure they are getting enough water.
• Mulch existing trees and shrubs to reduce weeds, provide insulation from freezing temperatures and conserve moisture.

Perennials, Annuals and Bulbs

• Reduce peony botrytis blight and hollyhock rust by removing and disposing of all leaves and stems this fall. Roses should have all their leaves raked from beneath to prevent black spot. Dispose of plant materials in the trash, not the compost pile. This will reduce the carryover of disease during the winter and you will have less trouble next year.
• Cut chrysanthemum and other perennials’ stems close to the ground once they have begun to die back. Leave ornamental grasses to provide winter interest until spring.
• You can continue to transplant perennials throughout the fall and winter unless they are marginally hardly in your zone. Those marginal plants are best planted in spring. Now is also an ideal time to plant spring-flowering bulbs. Consider planting some of the minor bulbs such as winter aconite, glory of the snow, species tulips, crocus, narcissus and grape hyacinths.
• Winter annuals such as pansies, violas, Dianthus chinensis, red mustard, snapdragons, ornamental cabbage and kale can still be planted – the earlier in the month, the better.
• Mulch flower beds with 2 to 3 inches of good compost or fine mulch to keep soil temperature stable and prevent winter plant injury from frost heaving. As the compost or fine mulch decomposes, it will enrich your garden soil as well.

Lawn Care

• It’s not too late to fertilize your cool-season fescue lawn. Use a turf fertilizer and follow label directions. This encourages good root development and helps improve the color of the lawn.

• Keep heavy layers of leaves raked from the lawn. They should be composted. Another option is to mow over a light layer of leaves, turning them into mulch, which adds important nutrients back to the lawn.
• November is the month for the first herbicide application for wild garlic and wild onion. Ask your county UT Extension office for information on herbicides and rates of application.

Fruits and Vegetables

• As soon as leaves fall from fruit trees and berry plants, spray for the first time with a dormant horticultural oil. This helps control overwintering insects and disease. Apply according to label instructions.
• Incorporate compost in the annual and vegetable gardens for next growing season.
• Complete removal of fallen leaves and debris to help eliminate overwintering insects and disease organisms.
• Cut the tops off asparagus plants and mulch with a good layer of compost.
• Cover strawberries 2 inches deep with hay or straw to reduce weeds and increase winter protection.
• Secure raspberry and blackberry canes to stakes to protect them from wind whipping.

Davis Kee Outdoor offers professional landcape services all year-round to ensure your yard is beautiful and vibrant in the spring. Contact us today!

Source: University of Tennessee Agricultural Extension Office

1. Landscape Design and Installation: Creating a breathtaking landscape starts with a well-thought-out design. The demand for professional landscape design and installation services is booming in Chattanooga. Homeowners and business owners alike want to maximize the potential of their outdoor spaces and create visually appealing environments that align with their unique style and requirements. By partnering with Davis Kee Outdoor, clients can benefit from expert guidance, innovative designs, and meticulous installation that brings their visions to life.
2. Hardscape Construction: Hardscaping elements, such as patios, walkways, retaining walls, and outdoor living spaces, add structure and functionality to any outdoor area. The popularity of hardscape construction services is soaring in Chattanooga, as people seek to expand their usable space and create inviting areas for relaxation and entertainment. Davis Kee Outdoor specializes in crafting stunning hardscape features that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while ensuring durability and longevity.
3. Irrigation Systems: Efficient irrigation is crucial for maintaining healthy and vibrant landscapes in Chattanooga’s climate. With the increasing focus on sustainability and water conservation, the demand for advanced irrigation systems has surged. Davis Kee Outdoor offers state-of-the-art irrigation solutions tailored to the unique needs of residential and commercial properties. From smart irrigation controllers to drip irrigation systems, their experts can design and install solutions that ensure optimal water usage and plant health.
4. Outdoor Lighting: Enhancing the ambiance and security of outdoor spaces, landscape lighting has become an essential element for both residential and commercial properties in Chattanooga. With the right lighting design, clients can showcase architectural features, illuminate walkways, and create an enchanting atmosphere for evening gatherings. Davis Kee Outdoor offers a wide range of outdoor lighting options, including LED fixtures, path lights, uplights, and accent lighting, to transform any space into a captivating nighttime oasis.
5. Lawn Care and Maintenance: A lush, well-maintained lawn is the foundation of any beautiful landscape. However, maintaining a healthy lawn can be time-consuming and challenging, especially for busy property owners. The demand for professional lawn care and maintenance services has grown substantially in Chattanooga, with clients seeking assistance in mowing, fertilization, weed control, and pest management. Davis Kee Outdoor’s dedicated lawn care team possesses the expertise and tools to keep lawns green, healthy, and weed-free throughout the year.
6. Seasonal Color and Plantings: Adding pops of vibrant color and texture to outdoor spaces is an excellent way to invigorate the landscape and create visual interest. Whether it’s planting seasonal flowers, ornamental grasses, or shrubs, Davis Kee Outdoor’s horticultural experts can provide tailored planting solutions that thrive in Chattanooga’s climate. By combining their knowledge of native and adapted plant species with artistic design skills, they can transform any property into a blooming masterpiece.

Conclusion: The desire to optimize outdoor spaces has become a top priority for residents and businesses in Chattanooga, TN. With Davis Kee Outdoor’s extensive range of services, both residential and commercial clients can revitalize their landscapes and create captivating environments. From landscape design and installation to hardscape construction, irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, lawn care, and seasonal plantings, Davis Kee Outdoor is the trusted partner for all outdoor projects. Take the first step towards transforming your outdoor space today and embark on a journey to create a stunning landscape that reflects your personal style and enhances your quality of life.

1. Landscape Design and Installation: When it comes to transforming outdoor spaces, a well-thought-out landscape design serves as the foundation for success. In Chattanooga, residents are eager to work with landscape professionals who can help them conceptualize and bring their visions to life. From creating visually stunning gardens to designing functional outdoor living areas, landscape design and installation services are in high demand. Skilled designers at Davis Kee Outdoor can collaborate with clients to design beautiful landscapes that suit their preferences, while considering the local climate and natural elements.
2. Hardscaping and Outdoor Living Areas: Chattanooga residents are increasingly looking to extend their living spaces outdoors, creating seamless transitions from indoor to outdoor environments. Hardscaping features, such as patios, decks, and walkways, are highly sought after for their ability to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of outdoor areas. Davis Kee Outdoor specializes in creating customized outdoor living spaces that maximize the potential of any residential or commercial property. From cozy fire pits for gatherings to elegant seating areas for relaxation, hardscaping services are currently in great demand.
3. Sustainable Landscaping: With the growing environmental consciousness among Chattanooga residents, sustainable landscaping has become an essential requirement for outdoor projects. Property owners are keen on reducing their carbon footprint and implementing eco-friendly practices. Davis Kee Outdoor offers sustainable landscaping solutions that focus on conserving water, minimizing chemical use, and promoting native plant species. From installing rainwater harvesting systems to designing low-maintenance gardens, these services are highly sought after by those looking to create environmentally responsible outdoor spaces.
4. Irrigation Systems and Water Management: Efficient water management is crucial for maintaining healthy landscapes in Chattanooga’s varying climate. With periods of both dry spells and heavy rainfall, property owners need reliable irrigation systems that adapt to these conditions. Davis Kee Outdoor provides expert installation and maintenance services for irrigation systems, ensuring that landscapes receive adequate hydration while avoiding wasteful water usage. These systems can be equipped with smart technology to monitor weather patterns and adjust watering schedules accordingly, promoting sustainable water management.
5. Landscape Lighting: As the sun sets, the allure of well-designed landscape lighting emerges, adding drama and enhancing safety to outdoor spaces. In Chattanooga, residents and businesses recognize the transformative power of lighting to create captivating ambiance and highlight architectural features. Davis Kee Outdoor offers professional landscape lighting design and installation services, utilizing energy-efficient LED fixtures that illuminate pathways, trees, and architectural elements. This service is in high demand as property owners seek to extend the usability of their outdoor areas into the evening hours.
6. Seasonal Maintenance and Plant Care: Maintaining the beauty and health of outdoor spaces requires regular care and attention. Davis Kee Outdoor provides comprehensive seasonal maintenance services, including pruning, fertilization, and weed control, to keep landscapes thriving throughout the year. Additionally, clients can rely on their expertise in plant care to ensure that gardens and green spaces receive the proper nutrients and attention they need. The demand for these services is consistent as residents and commercial property owners recognize the value of ongoing maintenance to preserve the longevity and appeal of their outdoor investments.

Conclusion: The desire to optimize outdoor spaces has become a top priority for residents and businesses in Chattanooga, TN. With Davis Kee Outdoor’s extensive range of services, both residential and commercial clients can revitalize their landscapes and create captivating environments. From landscape design and installation to hardscape construction, irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, lawn care, and seasonal plantings, Davis Kee Outdoor is the trusted partner for all outdoor projects. Take the first step towards transforming your outdoor space today and embark on a journey to create a stunning landscape that reflects your personal style and enhances your quality of life.

1. Make sure your plants are getting enough water, especially newly installed landscaping. You’ll want to keep the soil moist, but resist the urge to overwater your plants.
2. A basic guideline to follow: Yellow leaves means you are giving plants too much water and brown leaves mean not enough water.
3. Either water early in the morning or in the early afternoon. The best time is in the morning as plants make best use of water at this time and this helps prevent rot and fungus.
4. It’s been a hot summer, so you’ll want to take care of your lawn. Only feed your lawn with slow-acting fertilizers and be sure to mow your lawn and trim the edges regularly.
5. Do not mow your lawn too short!  This is a common mistake that is unnecessarily hard on your lawn, and actually promotes the growth of noxious weeds.
6. To prevent a heat stressed lawn, cut your fescue grasses at 3 – 3 ½” or higher.
7. If you notice any yellow patches or areas of your lawn that aren’t growing well, make sure you increase the water distribution. Look for areas that are getting overwatered and underwatered and take steps to correct this imbalance.
8. During the summer heat, continue to weed your garden bed areas. You can weed by either spraying selective weed killer or pulling weeds by hand. If you’re hand weeding the best time to do it is when the soil is damp- it’ll be much easier.
9. Summer is a great time to do light pruning and clean up and improve the health and look of your landscaping. Remove any dry leaves from your perennials and annuals and any faded blooms.
10. Add or replace mulch around trees, shrubs & in bed areas to a depth of 3” to 4″ This helps maintain moisture during dry weather.
11. Make sure you’re monitoring your plants for insects and disease damage. If you notice any, treat the area as needed. There has been a large increase in insect pests due to mild winters. Spray as needed!
12. Wait to plant your fall perennials until the outside temperatures begin to drop over night. This typically will be some time in September.

July weather in the south is hot and humid. This leads to a significant spike in insect populations and fungal diseases. We highly recommend that you are diligent in your pest prevention methods during summer. Monitor your lawn and landscape plants regularly for signs of any diseases or infestation. Identify the pest or pathogen responsible, then research the best method for eradicating that particular insect or fungus. Fungicides and Pesticides usually have very specific labeling and tend to be targeted for a very specific pathogen or insect. If you plan to spray yourself, it is critical that you obtain a product labeled for use on the specific threat you intend to target. It is also imperative that you read the instructions for use carefully, and follow all manufacturer recommendations for pretective equipment. Generally, late evening is considered to be the best time to spray during the hot summer season. At Davis Kee Outdoor, we can help with all common lawn and landscape pest and fungus issues.

Mow and water your lawn and landscape on a regular basis, but don’t overwater. If you have sprinklers, or other irrigation, consider installing a rainfall sensor so that your system recognizes the amount of rainfall your landscape is receiving from thunderstorms and rain showers. This simple sensor will prevent the system from engaging when the grass has already received adequate water, and prevent over-watering. If you don’t have sprinklers, or irrigation, then you want to remain aware of the amount of water being lost to evaporation and runoff. You should water once or twice a day if there is no rain. You definitely want to keep your lawn mowed but also avoid over mowing. Grass tends to grow quickly in the summertime, but you never want to be cutting more than 1/3 the height of the grass. Mowing grass too short can lead to stress on the roots, dehydration, and discoloration.

It is recommended that you continually deadhead your annual and perennial flowers so they can rebloom later on in the season. You can also pluck the top buds of several popular flowering plant species to limit seed development, which results in the plant blooming more. If you have questions, Davis Kee can help.

Be aware that poison ivy is an issue. This poisonous and invasive plant is constantly finding its way into Chattanooga area gardens, yards, and landscapes. You can identify this noxious pest by its signature look-three pointed leaflets per leaf. If you see poison ivy, do not touch it directly! Poison Ivy can be controlled by pulling it up using gloves or yard tools, as well as brush killing products. Follow all manufacturer label instructions when using brush killer. For those brush clean up jobs, contact Davis Kee to get the job done!

Fertilize your vegetable and herb plants with a nitrogen rich fertilizer about once per month in the summertime. This will keep your garden plants strong and healthy. We do not recommend using fertilizer on dry soils. It is preferred to wait until after a rainstorm or irrigation has watered your garden to apply fertilizer. The summer months are also a good time to prune trees and shrubs. You can be thorough with this process, but limit your pruning to removing less than 15% of the leaves of a plant if you want the plant to remain healthy. The first priority is any branches that are already dead, or appear to be dying. Call Davis Kee Outdoor for assistance with this and other summer projects!

Remember to harvest your herbs, fruits, and vegetables. July is peak season for all sorts of critters that would love to take your freshly ripened produce. Birds, deer, rabbits, and insects can all steal or destroy your crops before you get to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Check your garden every day and harvest as soon as your crops reach sufficient ripeness to pick.

Get ready for fall by planting fall vegetables such as lettuce, broccoli, carrots, turnips, and radishes. These can all be planted now for maximum enjoyment when autumn rolls around. It’s nice to have something to look forward to, and our long growing season here in the south affods us that luxury.

For assistance with all of the above, and much more, contact Davis Kee Outdoor today!