Your Questions Answered

Common Questions

If you have a landscape issue or are considering to add a landscape service, we know that you have questions. You may even have concerns. But you can stop worrying because that’s why we have created this video. We want you to be informed. We also want you to be relaxed. So let’s address your concerns, and by the end of this video, you’ll likely have a much better understanding of the answers to the questions that have been on your mind. So let’s dive in.

Do you charge for a consultation?

We generally charge a 50 dollar fee to help keep our overhead low for the clients we service. Most people feel this is a fair price for the amount of time, travel and the sharing of our intellectual knowledge that we bring towards solving their landscape issues. We’ve also heard from clients that by having us out, they have actually saved hundreds and sometimes even thousands of dollars by the ideas we bring for the project. This $50 fee is used towards the project as part of a down payment when you decide to use Pondering Gardens. This fee may also be waived for past clients, referrals, or coupons that might have been issued.

Do I need a landscape design?

Not necessarily. We see a landscape design as a great way to communicate our ideas for your project while incorporating your thoughts and desires. Sometimes the project is fairly straight forward and a design may not be necessary. On projects like this we generally paint out the landscape beds onsite to help you visualize the area to be landscaped. This also allows us to make measurements on the quantity of the products needed as well as an allowance for the plant material. This option is based on your comfort level. If you feel comfortable designing the landscape onsite with allowances for plant material, then this is the option used. If you feel more comfortable with a landscape plan, then we measure your site for an accurate design. We suggest a landscape design for more elaborate projects.

How much does a landscape design cost?

While an onsite design is part of your consultation fee, a drawn design requires more time and resources. Generally the cost of a design is based on the amount of time needed to develop a plan for your project. Most design work falls in between 250 and 800 dollars. For this investment you receive a detailed landscape plan drawn to scale and labeled. Revisions are allowed as long as the scope of the project has not changed. We also offer some 3D renderings to help communicate the vision for your new landscape.

How much will my landscape project cost?

Our pricing structure is based the amount time and materials needed to complete your specific landscape project. Some projects are only few hundred dollars while others can be in the six figure range. We prefer to take on projects that are at least $2500. Projects smaller than this generally are not a full day’s work for our crews. They are not the best value to our customers when taking into account drive times, equipment loading and all the other logistics needed to complete your landscape project efficiently.

How long will my project take?

We have serviced single day projects as well as ongoing projects that have encompassed over a year. Our average project length is around a week.

What kind of equipment do you have?

We pride ourselves on having the proper equipment for your landscape project. We are constantly looking for improved techniques as well as specialized tools and equipment to make us more efficient. While we may not own every tool in the toolshed, we do work with other vendors and equipment rental companies to make us prepared for your landscape project.

How many employees do you have?

Our workforce can fluctuate depending on the time of year. Generally speaking we have 2-5 employees during the production season. All of our employees go through a training process before they are hired on full time and continue with training through-out their employment.

What sets you apart from other landscape companies?

Education and experience: Owner Chadd Novak is a degreed horticulturist and Certified Landscape Professional. He has extensive experience in many levels of the landscape field and continues to learn and practice the latest techniques.
No middle man: Your project designer is also your project manager. They will see your work through from concept to completion – and beyond.
Our workers and equipment: We pride ourselves on having courteous, knowledgeable employees and well-maintained, insured equipment. We keep job sites clean and well-organized.
Community service: We recognize that strong businesses help build strong communities. Community service is a cornerstone of our mission as a business and neighbor.

Do you have any guarantees?

When you hire Pondering Gardens to be your landscape contractor your mind will be at ease because you know you are in good hands. We have been building beautiful landscapes and gardens since 2006 in the St. Croix Valley. Our experience, training, and specialized equipment gives us the confidence to guarantee what we can do for you.

We guarantee:

Phone calls will be returned within 24 hours.
Our staff will treat you with respect and integrity as we serve you.
Our staff will have the proper training to do the job you hire us to do.
We will have the proper equipment to do our job.
We will have the staff necessary to complete your job in a timely manner.
We will periodically inspect the work that our staff does for you.
You will be satisfied because we will correct any aspect of our work that you are not happy with.
Our trucks will be neat and clean.
Our staff members will be in uniform while working on your property.
We will be there when we say we will, and we will do what we promise.
We will be prepared to provide you information after the work is completed to keep your landscape beautiful for years to come.
You will receive an accurate invoice for the work you have approved.

Do you have any referrals?

Please refer to our website or the Pondering Gardens Google My Business page for general referrals. For project specific referrals feel free to contact us directly.

So when can you start my project?

Once the project documents are signed and a deposit has been collected you are officially scheduled with in our project calendar. We normally schedule in order of a first come, first served basis. This schedule may change based other factors that are not in our control such as: weather conditions, jobsite conditions, or other subcontractor work to name a few. We strive to give the client as much notice as possible of when to expect us. We generally have work scheduled from 1 -3 three months out depending on the time of year and the amount of work we have sold. Please feel to talk to your project designer about the start of your specific project.

Thank you for viewing this video. I hope it answers some of the questions that have been on your mind. Feel free to contact us on the estimate request form on our website: pondernolonger.com or call us at 715-426-6400 for your specific project.

Plantings

If you’re considering landscape design and plant installation, we know that you have questions. You may even have concerns. But you can stop worrying because that’s why we have created this video. We want you to be informed. We also want you to be relaxed. So let’s address your concerns, and by the end of this video, you’ll likely have a much better understanding of the answers to the questions that have been on your mind. So let’s dive in.

Do I need a landscape design?

How much does a landscape design cost?

What kind of plant material do you select?

First off, Pondering Gardens selects plant material from local, licensed nurseries. Licensed nurseries are monitored by the department of agriculture where their plant stock may be inspected for pests and diseases, ensuring the healthiest plant possible. Pondering Gardens is also a Licensed Nursery Dealer.

The types of plant material selected for an individual landscape has many factors. These factors include: size, light requirements, bloom time, bloom color, soil conditions, care requirements, texture, customer preferences, animal presence, fall color, growth habit, environmental conditions, plant form and winter hardiness. We strive to find the best plants available for your landscape. These tend to be more native plant material, but we also experiment with new plant varieties that may enter the marketplace.

Do I need an edging product? I don’t really like that black plastic edging, what are my options?

With our busy schedules, most people are looking to minimize the amount of time needed to maintain their landscape. This is the main reason why we recommend an edging product. Without an edging product, grass will start to grow with in your landscape beds and more time would be needed for weeding. We have installed what we call a “natural edge,” which is simply 3-4” deep trench for the mulch product to fall into. This would normally be done next to a wooded area or an evergreen tree that would continue to grow wider. Generally our recommendation is for a black plastic edging to separate the landscape beds. We have seen our share of poor looking landscape beds using plastic edging.

Here are some thoughts on plastic edging:

Not all plastic edging is created equal. If the edging is purchased rolled up in a circle, it’s probably not of sufficient strength to hold up to our environmental conditions long term.

One of the factors for edging movement is our freeze thaw cycle. This is the reason we use a thick edging product with a ribbed side and a T bottom. This design has more surface area versus a smooth side, V shaped bottom edging.

With our years of experience, we have noticed the most edging movement in these three areas: next to a sidewalk or driveway, where edging sections join, and on tight curves. We combat these spots by driving a landscape spike through the edging and into the ground to help secure it. We have also developed a unique way of joining two sections of edging to help eliminate those areas to heave.

While we have no issues with concrete, stone or cobble edging (we even install them from time to time), we tend to like the plastic edging over these for a few reasons.

1. Cost

The plastic edging is a better value in product cost as well as the efficiency of installation. We would rather use the budget on plant material versus the edging product.

2. Look

We prefer the edging product to be a functional part of the landscape and let the plant material be the showcase with in the landscape. The thinner plastic edging is not as noticeable as a hardscape product.

3. Maintenance

Cobbles, natural stone and some concrete allow grass to creep in over time through their joints. The plastic edging has less joints which helps with maintenance. A cobble stone edging is also difficult to mow next to and weed whip. For a cobble edging, we recommend to first install a plastic edging and then install the cobbles inside the bed.

What do you do for my soil conditions?

Although each site is unique, the number one condition we run into (especially on new construction sites) is soil compaction. We remedy this condition by working up the soil with one of our tillage tools. We may also incorporate a compost or peat moss if the site warrants this procedure. We are blessed to have generally fertile soil with in the St. Croix Valley. We do however, give you the option and recommend soil testing before plantings take place to help the new plant material adjust to their new environment.

Do you warranty your plant material?

Trees, shrubs, and perennials are guaranteed for one year, unless otherwise specified. Where plants die, replacements will be installed with plants similar to the original size and quality at no cost to the owner. One replacement for each plant that dies will be made. A different species or cultivar may be substituted when you and we agree. No guarantees are made for bulbs, annuals, seed and sod, or plants specified but not growing in their normal growing climate zone or region. Transplanted plants from the site have no guarantee, though every precaution will be made to assure their survival.

The above guarantee does not apply when plants die because of chemicals, animal damage, vandalism, fire, inadequate drainage, storms, hail, drought, insects, exceptional or untimely freeze, or other acts of God, or by any other contingency beyond our control.

Should I use a decorative rock or a wood mulch with in my landscape beds?

Each product works great for a ground cover with in your landscape beds. There are however both positives and negatives when comparing the two. Let me explain.

First let’s talk about decorative rock.

It is more permanent than a wood mulch because it doesn’t decompose like a wood mulch does.
It does not hold moisture like a wood mulch. We like to use it next to a house to keep it drier.
It is a less favorable environment for insects and weeds compared to a wood mulch.
Rock tends to cost more for installation than a wood mulch.
Walking bare foot on a rock mulch is harsher than a wood mulch.

What about a Wood Mulch?

Top dressing may be needed occasionally when the mulch level is low. This helps to freshen up the landscape and suppress weed germination.
It holds more moisture for the plant material and also controls temperature fluctuation by insulating the soil.
It decomposes adding beneficial organic material and nutrients to the soil for plant uptake.
Is easier to work with when dividing perennials or transplanting shrubs.

Again most people are asking for a beautiful, low maintenance landscape. In this situation let’s talk about landscaping next to a house. While each site is unique, we have found the following to work well in this situation.

We first try to solve the functional aspects of the landscape. This would be protecting the house structure. Water can have a damaging effect on a house from actual water infiltration to mold growth. While a properly graded site is the most important aspect to control these issues, we feel that a decorative rock compliments this objective, by not holding the moisture like a wood mulch does. Typically any plant material in these areas are foundation shrubs where plant division would not be needed. If the landscape bed increases in size, we like to incorporate a wood mulch area. We have found that this adds a softening look by not having such a large rock bed. It also allows us the option to add more herbaceous perennials which can be easily divided and cared for with all the wood mulch attributes.

That being said, each site is unique, with different obstacles and preferences of the client. We work with each of these to solve your landscape issues.

Do you use a landscape fabric or a poly underlayment?

We primarily use a 3 ounce landscape fabric under our decorative rock. This fabric allows water to pass through and has a higher durability than a poly underlayment. For areas that we are trying to control all of the surface water, a poly underlayment may be recommended. We do not recommend a fabric under a wood mulch due to the fact that the wood mulch decomposes into organic matter. This organic matter is a great area for weed germination making the fabric useless long term.

I hope this video answers the questions that may have been on your mind in regards to landscape design and plant installation. Feel free to contact us via the estimate on request form on our website or call us at 715-426-6400 to take the pondering out of your garden.

Patios

If you’re considering a patio or walkway addition to your landscape, we know that you have questions. You may even have concerns. But you can stop worrying because that’s why we have created this video. We want you to be informed. We also want you to be relaxed. So let’s address your concerns, and by the end of this video, you’ll likely have a much better understanding of the answers to the questions that have been on your mind. So let’s dive in.

What is the best patio / sidewalk for me and my family?

Long gone are the days of common brushed concrete being your only choice for your new patio or sidewalk. There are many choices now-a-days for a desired look and the market is continuing to evolve. So what sort of product is best for you? Let’s talk about the pros and cons of the some of the most popular options.

Poured Concrete

While Pondering Gardens does not currently offer this service, a poured concrete patio may be the best option for you. A brushed concrete patio will be your cheapest option if your budget is tight. Brushed concrete is simply a finish where a brush is pulled over the smoothed concrete surface to give it a texture. This texture makes the surface less slippery especially when wet for a safer paved area. What makes brushed concrete the cheapest is based on the cost of the product itself and the amount of time required to install the product. The down fall with any poured concrete product is that it will eventually crack and may settle due to our freeze – thaw cycle. In addition to a gray brushed concrete, you could choose an exposed aggregate, colored, or stamped concrete. These options are at an added cost compared to the standard brushed concrete.

Concrete Pavers

Concrete pavers are gaining in popularity for many reasons. The two main reasons are the vast array of colors, sizes, textures, finishes and designs as well as their durability. This durability is achieved by our product selection and installation techniques. Our Installation techniques comprise of the battle with the freeze / thaw cycle. Freezing water expands, which, over time can cause a paved area to heave. One way to combat this process is to eliminate as much water as possible with in the paved area. On a standard patio, we include at least 6 inches of a clear ¾ inch angular rock as our base material. This clear rock serves two main purposes. It first is easier to reach proper compaction versus a base material with crushed fines, thus saving time. The main purpose though is to keep the paved area as dry as possible by allowing water to pass through it. This helps to reduce or eliminate any possibility of heaving. We also place a geotextile between the subsoil and base material so that the base material does not migrate into the subsoil over repeated freeze / thaw cycles. Our bedding material is also porous to allow for any collected water to escape. This process is more involved than others partake, but we feel it is of greater value when considering the longevity of the paved area.

Another great property of pavers is the ability to replace a broken paver with-out replacing the entire paved area.

These materials and processes equate to higher costs than what a poured concrete would evoke. Pavers are generally installed based on a pattern which can give them more of a commercial look. They also tend to absorb stains like oil easier than poured concrete or natural stone. Sealers can be applied to stave of stains, but may need to be reapplied.

Natural Stone

While the most expensive, natural stone may be your best option if you are looking for a natural look. Flagstone patterns are popular for backyard patios, next to water features and fire pit areas. You can also choose a patterned cut stone for an additional cost. We generally do not recommend natural stone for a front sidewalk because the stone itself may have high and low spots. These spots make snow removal more difficult in the winter months. The installation process is very similar to a concrete paver installation. Flag stone installation is a true art of putting random pieces together to make your paved area. It’s like putting a puzzle together with no true match. This process as well as the cost of the product accounts for why natural stone tends to be more the expensive than the other two products. With this product and installation though, you are truly buying a useable piece of art which is one of a kind.

Retaining Walls

If you’re in need of a retaining wall, we know that you have questions. You may even have concerns. But you can stop worrying because that’s why we have created this video. We want you to be informed. We also want you to be relaxed. So let’s address your concerns, and by the end of this video, you’ll likely have a much better understanding of the answers to the questions that have been on your mind. So let’s dive in.

What is the best retaining wall for me and my family?

There are many retaining wall options now-a-days to fix your steep slopes and to allow you more manageable space on your property. So what sort of product is best for you? Let’s talk about the pros and cons of the some of the most popular options.

Concrete Block

Concrete retaining wall block is a popular choice for retaining a steep slope because they are specifically engineered to perform this function. Each manufacturer has its unique locking mechanism that keeps the block in place. Some of these would be an anchor bar, a back lip, or locking pins. These walls are built on strict specifications from the manufacturer to ensure their longevity. What makes them appealing is the wide array choices in their design, color, and texture. They are a great value when taking into account the longevity that they provide. Pricing can fluctuate based on the type of product you choose. A simpler designed block system is generally cheaper than a block system with multiple dimensions and textures.

Glacier Boulders

Glacier boulders are another popular choice if your space is large enough for the boulder itself and for the equipment needed for its installation. These products are generally the longest lasting of all the products as long as they are installed properly. Boulders entertain a more “natural look” compared to a more “manufactured look” of a concrete block. Boulder installation is generally a little more expensive than concrete block installation. However, a field stone boulder can be comparably priced to some block wall systems.

Natural Stone

While the most expensive, natural stone may be your best option if you are looking for the particular look that only natural stone can supply. There many types of stone material to choose from that are quarried all over the country. Pricing can fluctuate dramatically from stone to stone depending on its availability and shipping distance.

Do you still not know what sort of product is best for you? Here are some additional things to think about.

What sort of theme am I looking for?

If it’s a more modern look, perhaps a concrete block would fit that function.

A more rustic look would either be a glacier boulder or natural stone.

What is the color of your house and or surroundings that the wall will be placed?

If this wall it to be placed next to a house, we would recommend a product that would complement the color of the house and any other hardscape products next to it.

What is my budget?

A well thought out budget plan will help your designer to come up with alternative options and return the greatest value.

Are there any site limitations?

Some retaining wall products are not recommended for walls over four feet tall.

Is there machine access or does all the work have to be completed by hand?

What look do you prefer?

Some people enjoy a more natural look, while others just care that it is functional.

Are there any future plans?

Maybe you are looking to add a patio or swimming pool in the future. How will this retaining wall product perform with any landscape additions?

Water Features

If you are considering a water feature for your landscape, we know that you have questions. You may even have concerns. But you can stop worrying because that’s why we have created this video. We want you to be informed. We also want you to be relaxed. So let’s address your concerns, and by the end of this video, you’ll likely have a much better understanding of the answers to the questions that have been on your mind. So let’s dive in.

What is the best water feature for me and my family?

That’s a great question. The best way to answer this, is to explain the differences in each type of water feature. Then we can find the best fit for you and your family.

Ponds and Water Gardens

These have also been called Koi ponds, are the most satisfying and rewarding of the water features because of all the elements that they provide. This is the feature with the soothing sound of a falls and running water of a creek bed. It provides the area for your own fish as pets and aquatic plants. It is with in itself its own ecosystem. Failure to not have all of these elements in balance will greatly influence the amount of maintenance needed for your pond. If you are looking for the best environment for fish and the most natural looking water feature, this is the product for you.

So why wouldn’t a pond be best for me?

Cost – Pond construction generally has more components involved with its construction and it takes longer to install versus other options.

Pumps are required to run all the time to maintain oxygen levels within the pond for the fish.

Maintenance – A well designed, ecological balanced system will have low maintenance. However this system generally has higher maintenance than the other systems.
Space / Elevation Limitations – Pond systems can be placed in tight areas, however due to other circumstance such as underground wires, another water feature may be a better choice. Flat areas can also be challenging to create a natural looking pond with a water fall. Positioning a water fall too high on a flat area can make the feature look fake and unrealistic.

Pondless Water Falls

Pondless water falls are a great alternative for families you want the soothing sound of a waterfall, but don’t want the fish or the variety of aquatic plants. This feature simply has a basin for its water holding area that gets recirculated to the water fall. These tend to be less expensive compared to pond construction. They are also cheaper to operate because the pump can be turned off when you are away. Another great part of this system is that it can be turned into a pond system when you are ready for the next step.

So why wouldn’t a pondless water fall be best for me?

Limited elevation change – Like constructing a water fall for a pond, the lack of proper elevation change in the right direction, can be a challenge to constructing a natural looking water fall. Other options may be a better fit.
No fish – There is not a proper spot for fish to survive.
Space for aquatic plants are limited.

Fountains

There are a vast array of options in the fountain market. Some are self-contained and can be plug and play. Others are more elaborate and can be jaw dropping. This segment continues to evolve with the vast amount of options and looks available. Like the pondless water fall, there is no need to run the pump when the feature is not in use. Since there are a vast amount of options in this segment, pricing can fluctuate based on the feature you choose. Elevation change is not of great concern with this feature. They have tend to have a more modern look compared to the other two features.

So why wouldn’t a fountain be best for me?

Not a natural look – If the goal for your water feature is to best fit into its surroundings, this probably wouldn’t be the best fit.
Fish – Though some features may have a spot for a fish or two they generally are not tailored to support fish life.
Space for aquatic plants is limited if not impossible.

Thank you for viewing this video. I hope it answers some of the questions that have been on your mind in regards to the best water feature for you and your family. Feel free to contact us on the estimate request form on our website: pondernolonger.com or call us at 715-426-6400 for your specific project.

Your Questions Answered

Landscape Construction

Idea Galleries

Pondering Gardens