Top Landscaping Services in Marple, PA, 19008 | Compare & Call
Frequently Asked Questions
I want to reduce mowing and gas equipment noise. What are my options?
Transitioning sections of high-maintenance turf to a native plant palette is a forward-looking solution. Species like Eastern Redbud, Switchgrass, New England Aster, and Joe Pye Weed are adapted to Zone 7a and require no weekly mowing, fertilization, or frequent watering once established. This xeriscaping approach significantly reduces the need for gas-powered blowers and mowers, aligning with the trend toward quieter, electric maintenance fleets. It also creates a higher-biodiversity landscape that supports local pollinators.
My yard floods after moderate rain. What's a long-term solution that won't fail inspection?
Persistent pooling indicates the clay-heavy subsoil common to Glenelg-Manor soils is preventing infiltration. A strategic solution involves installing subsurface French drains to intercept water and channel it away from foundations. Replacing impervious surfaces with permeable concrete pavers for walkways or patios increases ground absorption. All such work must comply with Marple Township's stormwater management standards; a permit from the Building and Zoning Department is typically required for any significant regrading or hardscape installation.
Why does my lawn have such poor drainage and look thin compared to new construction lawns?
Marple's Lawrence Park neighborhood, developed in the late 1950s, has 68-year-old landscapes on Glenelg-Manor Channery Silt Loam. This soil type, combined with decades of foot traffic and standard mowing, has led to significant subsoil compaction and reduced permeability. The soil's natural acidity (pH 5.5-6.5) is often exacerbated by historical fertilization, further limiting nutrient uptake. Core aeration and the addition of composted organic matter are essential to rebuild soil structure and restore percolation.
Is it possible to keep a healthy Tall Fescue lawn under voluntary water conservation rules?
Yes, maintaining Tall Fescue under Stage 0 voluntary conservation is achievable with precise management. Wi-Fi ET-based weather-sensing controllers automatically adjust runtime based on real-time evapotranspiration data, preventing overwatering. This technology, paired with proper mowing height (3.5-4 inches), encourages deep root growth and drought resilience. The system ensures irrigation only meets the turf's actual need, aligning with municipal water stewardship goals without sacrificing lawn health.
My HOA gave me a 48-hour notice for debris cleanup. How quickly can a crew get here?
A crew can typically be dispatched within the same business day for compliance issues. Routing from the Marple Veterans Memorial Park staging area via I-476 (Blue Route) to Lawrence Park ensures a reliable 20-30 minute travel window, even during peak traffic. We schedule work within the township's noise ordinance hours (8:00 AM - 8:00 PM) using low-decibel electric equipment to avoid violations. This coordinated approach prioritizes rapid response and immediate mitigation.
Are permeable pavers a better choice than a new wood deck for my patio?
Permeable concrete pavers offer superior longevity and functionality compared to wood in our climate. They manage stormwater runoff on-site, mitigate local flooding, and will not rot, warp, or require frequent sealing. While Marple has a low Fire Wise rating, pavers also provide a non-combustible, defensible space immediately adjacent to the home. Their installation creates a stable, low-maintenance surface that adds value without the ongoing upkeep and eventual replacement cost of timber.
I see invasive vines choking my shrubs. How can I remove them safely?
Common invasive alerts in this area include Porcelain-berry and Oriental Bittersweet. Manual removal of roots and vines is the first step, followed by careful spot-treatment of regrowth with an appropriate systemic herbicide. This targeted approach minimizes chemical use and protects desirable plants. All applications must comply with the Pennsylvania Nutrient Management Act, which prohibits phosphorus application unless a soil test confirms a deficiency, and should be performed by a professional licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
Do I need a permit to regrade my backyard, and what kind of contractor should I hire?
Regrading a 0.35-acre lot in Marple Township often requires a permit, as it alters water runoff patterns. The Marple Township Building and Zoning Department reviews plans to ensure compliance with erosion control and drainage ordinances. The work itself must be performed by a contractor appropriately licensed for earthmoving and possibly landscaping. For any application of pesticides or fertilizers as part of the project, the contractor must hold a current license from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture to ensure legal and safe application.
