The secret of getting ahead is getting started. The secret of getting started is breaking your complex, overwhelming tasks into small manageable tasks, and then starting on the first one. -- Mark Twain
- Call 1-800-332-2344 to locate utilities.
- Remove shrubs and tree as indicated on plan.
- Remove cement sidewalk.
- Remove rock steps.
- Remove partial fence from east side.
- Remove rock from existing rain garden.
- Layout areas for rain garden, flagstone paver front entry path, wood (or composite wood) deck, re-shaped lawn area and plant beds.
- Remove sod per plan. Rent sod cutter to remove in strips.
- Install irrigation system (front and back) -- trench, layout pipes, install valves and backflow devices, install heads for lawn area, test the system, backfill and compact soil in trenches. Contact Homescaper for contractor referrals.
- Install boulders.
- Install wood (or composite wood) deck over existing cement landing.
- Install flagstone paver path (193 sq.ft.) as follows: excavate 3-4”. Install steel edging (115 lin.ft.). Spread approximately 2 cu.yds. of 1/4” minus crushed gravel. Rent plate compactor to level and compress gravel. Work flagstone pavers (flattest side up) into crushed gravel until level. Spread crushed gravel between joints.
- Install bamboo trellis.
- Install new fence and arbor.
- Install rain garden and rain barrel.
- Improve the soil in plant bed areas (1,924 total sq.ft.) as follows: purchase 6 cu.yds. of blended soil; spread over the existing soil to a depth of 1 1/2", rototill to a depth of 6".
- Install plant material -- begin with largest material (trees first, then large shrubs followed by smaller shrubs). Follow with perennials, grasses, and groundcovers. See Planting Tips document for planting information.
- Complete installation of irrigation system -- install and adjust heads, drip irrigation, and program controller.
- Final grade entire site; planting areas to slope away from house, sidewalks/entrys, driveway, patios and paths.
- Spread organic compost over planting beds to a depth of 1 - 2 inches. Improve soil by re-applying 1 – 2” of organic compost every year.
- Recycle plastic pots at local nursery (or call Homescaper).
