Frequently Asked Questions

Boise receives only 12 inches of annual rainfall, with most precipitation occurring outside the growing season. Irrigation systems must compensate for hot, dry summers and low humidity that increases evaporation rates. Zone design separates turf from drought-tolerant plantings to avoid overwatering native shrubs while keeping lawns healthy.

Spring cleanup works best after the last frost risk passes, typically late March through April, preparing beds and removing winter debris before growth accelerates. Fall cleanup should happen after leaf drop but before snowfall, usually October through early November, preventing matted debris that smothers grass and harbors disease over winter.

Sprinkler heads clog with mineral deposits from hard water, sink below grade as soil settles, or develop misaligned spray patterns from impact damage. Valve pressure inconsistencies cause weak zones, while aging components lose adjustment capacity. These issues develop gradually, making annual system checks essential for catching problems before dry spots appear.

Edging defines borders along walkways and parking areas, while string trimming cleans areas mowers can't reach near poles and fences. Debris removal clears clippings from hard surfaces, and landscape monitoring identifies irrigation issues, pest damage, or plant stress early. Consistent scheduling maintains polished appearance without allowing overgrowth between visits.

Renovations work around existing irrigation lines, mature trees with established root zones, and hardscape features worth preserving. Soil conditions may need amendment after years of compaction, and aging plants require careful removal to avoid damaging nearby keepers. Planning addresses what stays, what goes, and how new elements integrate with the functional parts of the existing landscape.

Older systems use fixed spray heads that waste water on sidewalks and buildings, while modern rotary nozzles deliver larger droplets that resist wind drift and evaporation. Smart controllers adjust schedules based on weather data instead of running predetermined cycles. Pressure regulation prevents misting, and matched precipitation rates ensure even coverage with shorter run times.

Accumulation depth triggers service based on pre-agreed thresholds, typically 2-3 inches for parking lots to maintain access before compaction occurs. Business operating hours determine whether clearing happens overnight or early morning. Weather monitoring tracks storm progression to position crews before heavy snowfall impacts customer and employee access.

Pruning becomes necessary when branches obstruct walkways, contact buildings, or create sight line hazards near driveways and intersections. Dead or crossing branches invite disease and structural failure. Routine shaping remains optional but improves appearance, encourages dense growth, and prevents the larger corrective cuts that stress plants and leave visible gaps.

Proper plant spacing accounts for mature size, eliminating the need for constant pruning or premature removal as shrubs outgrow their locations. Grouping plants by water needs prevents irrigation waste and reduces controller complexity. Hardscape placement defines mowing edges cleanly, cutting trim time and preventing damage to beds from equipment encroachment.

Snow removal clears accumulation but leaves behind compacted snow that melts and refreezes into ice layers, especially on walkways and building entrances. De-icing materials break the bond between pavement and ice, preventing slippery conditions during freeze-thaw cycles. Application timing matters—treating before refreezing occurs works better than reacting after ice forms.

Persistent low pressure across multiple zones points to mainline leaks or valve failure, not clogged heads. Zones that won't shut off indicate stuck valves or failed solenoids. Geysers, soggy areas between watering cycles, or dramatically increased water bills signal underground line breaks that require excavation and repair, not surface fixes.

Commercial properties require consistent weekly visits during the growing season to maintain professional appearance for customers and tenants, while residential schedules often flex to bi-weekly service. Commercial crews address high-traffic wear patterns, litter removal, and curb appeal priorities tied to business operations. Timing avoids peak customer hours, often requiring early morning or evening service windows.