Sweeneys Custom Landscaping Articles
True Colors: The Science Behind Fall Foliage
The mellow, ripened sun struck the match that would soon set the landscape ablaze in brilliant umber, vermilion, gold, scarlet and smoky plum. The verdant greens of Summer would soon smolder in the deep, rich tones of Autumn’s palette, and the show is about to start. As trees prepare for…
Fall Firsts: The Importance of Clean Ups
Change is in the air. Cool, crisp change. The first day of Fall is Sunday, September 22nd, and I for one welcome it with open arms. Now, is a busy time in our yards and gardens as we take advantage of the perfect growing conditions and prepare for the winter…
Fall Forward: Autumn Aerations
The once verdant leaves began to yellow and shed upon her slumped and weary figure. The unrelenting heat, and sparse rains of late Summer were more than she could bear. These are the dog days indeed. But August too will soon concede, and with it, any remnants of Summer. Autumn…
Late Summer: Season of Second Chances
The landscape lay beleaguered, drunk on the sun’s rays and summer heat. She was beginning to blush and mature in the ripened light of August’s sun, and there was a palpable shift in the air. The winds of change are upon us as our attention begins to turn from…
Late Summer Lawn Renovations: Your Window of Opportunity
Late Summer’s beauty and vigor began to wane, but she put on a brave face as August will be sauntering in, hot and heavy, as she’s known to do. She held a secret and plenty of tricks up her sleeve. She was ever the opportunist. Late Summer provides ideal conditions…
…Rising Like a Phoenix
As you might imagine, Sweeney’s is still recovering from last week’s fire, but it’s business as usual! We are still operational. For those looking for ways to support us, we thank you! The best way to help is to keep our crews busy! Please sign up for any landscape projects…
Killing with Kindness
Sweet, tender Summer was becoming a bit more brazen and fierce as desiccated leaves scraped and scratched their way along the ground. Although not in a drought, DuPage County and much of Illinois have been behind in precipitation year over year. Whether it rains or not, this doesn’t mean we…
Combatting Heat Stressed Plants
Weighted down with the heavily perfumed blooms of early Summer, the Linden’s boughs, like a Southern Belle’s hoop skirt, seemed in full curtsy. She was decadent and lavish, but it wasn’t long before she began to slump and shed her regalia in an effort to conserve her beauty and vigor….
Bee Friendly! It’s National Pollinator Week!
Every flower awaited its turn, like an eager dance partner, as the bees flitted and twirled amongst them. Summer’s arrival finds our gardens and landscapes in full bloom. It’s no coincidence that Summer’s arrival coincides with National Pollinator Week. A wonderful time to revisit the importance of pollinators and how…
Contrast in the Landscape: Color, Shape & Texture
The Cottonwood’s downy seeds fell like snow. Drifting and swirling upon the air, some suspended momentarily as they sought the perfect landing place. Soon, they began to snag and accumulate. It was magical, slightly alarming, and a complete contrast to the summer heat. Contrast, in the landscape, is an important,…
3 Ways Landscaping Can Increase the Value of Your Home
The bee floated amongst the flowers, hovering and bouncing between the blooms, landing and lingering upon only the most appealing. He made several passes, returning to some, while ignoring others. He seemed discerning in his quest, much like today’s home buyer. Landscaping, or the lack thereof, can help or…
Sun Bathing Out. Tree Bathing In.
The delicate, silvery strand caught a splinter of light, momentarily shimmering and glistening in the early summer sun. As the wind began to roil and swirl, the spider’s silk became untethered, taking flight upon the breeze. An almost invisible moment became apparent. A shared secret to keep. What surely is…