May 9, 2022 2:30 pm
Published by Steve Dana
Here in the South, we’ve got a beautiful climate. With a mostly mild take on each season, we get just a touch of the quarterly shifts without the more extreme conditions. But that also means that choosing flowers for this landscape demands an understanding of what does well in an environment that maintains more warmth and humidity year-round than others. After all, no one likes a wilted flower. There are always the mainstays, like azaleas and camellias. But let’s talk about five flowers hardy enough for the South about which you might not already know! #1 The Obedient Plant This flowering plant’s appeal is in its name! For starters, it’s perennial, meaning it returns to bloom for multiple growing seasons. Win! But this plant is also native to the Southern United States and that becomes obvious when you see how happily it grows. Give it the space it enjoys (about 18 inches between two seeds), and it will prove pretty low-maintenance. #2 Black-Eyed Susan Cheery and happy to bake in the sunshine of summer, black-eyed susans are a key component in any low-maintenance garden. As flowers hardy enough for the South go, this brilliant little burst of color might […]
January 10, 2022 9:22 pm
Published by Steve Dana
As you embark on a landscape architecture project, there are many variables to consider. From designing the flow of each space to selecting plant life that suits your microclimate, the factors to think about go on and on. And there is one addition to the checklist that doesn’t always get its due: irrigation. Many landscape architecture firms give this job to engineers. But today, we’re going to talk about why you want to ensure that certified irrigation designers are on the task! #1 Irrigation is Not the Time for Half Measures While you could make the argument that anyone can choose plants for their landscape, the value of an expert is obvious. They can make selections informed by years of education and experience. This ensures that they are the ideal installations for your unique landscape and microclimate. Plus, they’ve got an eye for pairing various plant life beautifully. But when it comes to irrigation, the need to hire a true pro is even more stark. It’s essential. This element of a landscape design is a foundational one. An exceptional irrigation system should accomplish the following: Conserve water by utilizing rainwater and runoff Save maintenance time and cost by routing the […]
December 13, 2021 2:43 pm
Published by Steve Dana
When you set out to design a beautiful landscape for your commercial property, there are a lot of variables to consider. You have to think about how the spaces will be used, the feelings you want them to evoke in people, and the way they complement buildings and hardscape. A key part of achieving your goals for all of those factors is thinking carefully about the plantings you incorporate. It might seem unquestioningly positive to integrate native plantings. And indeed, this concept (which has become something of a buzz phrase in recent years) does represent an idea that benefits the environment. However, there is a difference between plants and flowers that are native to your region and those that will thrive in the specific area you plan to plant them. And this, my friends, is the art of understanding microclimates! Let’s explore the topic further and learn how microclimates for commercial landscaping can be beneficial and look beautiful. The Definition of Microclimates First, you might be wondering: What exactly are microclimates? Merriam-Webster defines a microclimate as “the essentially uniform local climate of a usually small site or habitat.” In terms of commercial landscaping, you can think of it like this: […]
November 5, 2021 4:34 pm
Published by Steve Dana
In 2021, we have experienced the third most active hurricane season on record. As so many places have been impacted by these intense storms in the past year, the conversation surrounding the importance of tree canopies has resurfaced. (Although, it’s always one we here at Jerry Pate Design enjoy talking about!) Today, we’re going to share a few benefits of landscape architecture with trees to show why we should restore canopies after hurricanes. Benefits Of Trees: They Protect the Planet We all hear a lot of talk about climate change floating around, but it can be difficult to get a clear answer on what really causes it. But here’s one insight Climate.gov has shared: “Increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide are responsible for about two-thirds of the total energy imbalance that is causing Earth’s temperature to rise.” That means that if we can work toward reducing carbon dioxide, we can begin to restore and protect our environment. Given our understanding of this aspect of the problem and its seemingly large impact, carbon dioxide is a great place to start in the fight against climate change. And trees can help us! While reducing our man-made emissions is a noble goal that we […]
November 2, 2021 8:04 pm
Published by Steve Dana
On October 25, our team here at Jerry Pate Design collaborated with Sustainable Town Concepts to host a charrette with members of the Pensacola community. The topic of discussion was the forthcoming Brownsville Park project, for which we are in the design phase now. When we are creating public outdoor spaces for locals to enjoy, it is so important for us to gain their perspectives. We were delighted by the chance to hear feedback and opinions from the very people who will be patrons of Brownsville Park in the future. As a part of the Pensacola Design Project, Jerry Pate Design is donating our time and effort to make these Brownsville Park improvements. Upon completion, the L-shaped property may feature a playground, pavilion, picnic areas, and more. We’re excited to break ground soon! Photography Courtesy of Escambia County Community and Media Relations.