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	<title>Winter Care &#8211; Land Design Associates</title>
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	<title>Winter Care &#8211; Land Design Associates</title>
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		<title>Landscaping in New England A Complete Guide for 2026</title>
		<link>https://landdesignassociates.com/landscaping-in-cold-climates-new-england-guide/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Land Design Associates]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Jul 2026 22:32:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Landscape Design and Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Investment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Winter Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coastal landscaping New England]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cold-resistant landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hardy plants for Massachusetts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[landscaping in cold climates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Massachusetts Landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[New England garden design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[northern climate gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[region-specific plant selection]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[South Shore landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[winter-hardy plants]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://landdesignassociates.com/?p=7875</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[A 2026 guide to landscaping in cold climates. With hardy plant picks, coastal exposure design, and season-by-season strategy for Massachusetts and South Shore homeowners.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="faq-block">
<div class="faq">
<div class="lda-cta">
<div class="lda-faq-item">
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">If you&#8217;ve ever watched a beautiful summer garden collapse into brown mush after the first hard frost, you already understand the core challenge of <strong>landscaping in cold climates</strong>: it&#8217;s not enough to plan for how a yard looks in July. In Massachusetts and across New England, a landscape has to survive nor&#8217;easters, salt spray, freeze-thaw cycles, and six-month stretches where the ground is either frozen or soaked. This guide walks through what actually works. From a plant selection to a design strategy so your investment holds up season after season, not just for one.</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Table of Contents</h3>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Why New England Demands a Different Approach</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Understanding Your Climate Zone</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Hardy Plants for Massachusetts Yards</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Designing for Coastal and South Shore Exposure</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Four-Season Design Strategy</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Hardscaping That Survives Freeze-Thaw Cycles</li>
</ul>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Why New England Demands a Different Approach</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Landscaping in cold climates isn&#8217;t a stripped-down version of landscaping anywhere else — it&#8217;s a different discipline. Massachusetts sits at the intersection of continental cold snaps and Atlantic coastal weather, which means a single property can face wind exposure, road salt runoff, heavy wet snow load, and a growing season that&#8217;s noticeably shorter than what you&#8217;d find just a few states south.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">A generic, big-box-store planting plan often fails here within two winters. Cold-resistant landscaping means designing from the ground up around three realities:</p>
<ol class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-decimal flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Hard frost dates that arrive early and linger late</strong> (often mid-October through late April on the South Shore)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Salt exposure</strong> from both winter road treatment and, for coastal towns, direct sea spray</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Freeze-thaw cycling</strong>, where repeated freezing and melting stresses soil, roots, and hardscape materials alike</li>
</ol>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Once you design around those three factors, plant choice, layout, and materials follows naturally.</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Understanding Your Climate Zone</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Most of Massachusetts falls into <strong>USDA Hardiness Zones 5b to 7a</strong>, though this varies meaningfully by proximity to the coast. Interior and western Massachusetts towns often sit in Zone 5, with colder minimum temperatures and a shorter growing window. Coastal and South Shore communities are benefiting from the moderating effect of the ocean frequently edge into Zone 6b or 7a, allowing for a slightly broader plant palette.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Knowing your specific zone matters more than most homeowners realize. A plant rated for Zone 7 may look fine in a nursery display in May and die completely by its second winter if planted in a Zone 5 pocket just twenty miles inland. This is the foundation of good <strong>region-specific plant selection</strong> always confirm your zone before finalizing a plant list, and account for microclimates on your own property (a south-facing wall holds heat; a low spot collects cold air and moisture).</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Hardy Plants for Massachusetts Yards</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Below are reliable categories for <strong>hardy plants for Massachusetts</strong> landscapes, chosen for their track record surviving harsh winters and inconsistent springs.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Trees:</strong></p>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Eastern Redbud (Zone 4–8 hardy, spring color, tolerates part shade)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">American Hornbeam (extremely wind- and cold-tolerant, strong native option)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Serviceberry (four-season interest spring flowers, summer fruit, fall color)</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Shrubs:</strong></p>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Inkberry Holly (evergreen structure, salt-tolerant, holds up well on exposed sites)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Winterberry (deciduous holly with bright red winter berries a New England classic)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Boxwood (reliable evergreen structure, though needs winter wind protection in exposed spots)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Arborvitae (dense evergreen screening, cold-hardy to Zone 3)</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Perennials &amp; Grasses:</strong></p>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Sedum (thrives in poor soil, drought- and cold-tolerant)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Russian Sage (silvery foliage, handles wind and salt well)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Little Bluestem and Switchgrass (native ornamental grasses that add winter texture and structure after other plants die back)</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Groundcover:</strong></p>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Creeping Thyme</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Pachysandra (shade-tolerant, evergreen, spreads reliably in New England conditions)</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">The common thread across this list: every plant here has a genuine track record in <strong>northern climate gardening</strong>, not just a hardiness zone rating on a tag. Zone ratings tell you the theoretical minimum temperature a plant survives. They don&#8217;t account for wind, salt, or wet feet in spring, which is often what actually kills marginal plants in this region.</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Designing for Coastal and South Shore Exposure</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">South Shore properties Hingham, Cohasset, Duxbury, Marshfield, and similar coastal towns face landscaping challenges that inland Massachusetts yards don&#8217;t. Salt-laden wind can burn foliage on the windward side of a property, sandy soil drains too fast to hold nutrients, and storm surge or heavy rain can saturate low-lying beds.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Effective coastal design strategies include:</p>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Windbreak layering</strong> placing salt-tolerant shrubs like bayberry or beach plum on the exposed perimeter to shield more delicate plantings behind them</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Raised beds</strong> in low-lying or poorly draining areas, improving both drainage and root warmth</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Native dune and shoreline plants</strong> (beach grass, rugosa rose) where appropriate, which have evolved for exactly these conditions</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Salt-tolerant lawn alternatives</strong>, since traditional turf often struggles within direct salt-spray zones</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">This is where <strong>cold-resistant landscaping</strong> and coastal resilience overlap a plant that&#8217;s cold-hardy but salt-sensitive will still fail on an exposed South Shore lot, so both factors need to be screened for together.</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Four-Season Design Strategy</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">A hallmark of strong <strong>New England garden design</strong> is that the landscape still looks intentional in January, not just June. This comes down to layering plants for structure across all four seasons:</p>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Spring:</strong> Early bloomers (redbud, forsythia) signal the shift out of winter</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Summer:</strong> Full foliage and flowering perennials carry the bulk of color</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Fall:</strong> Native shrubs and grasses (winterberry, switchgrass) provide color and movement as deciduous leaves drop</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Winter:</strong> Evergreen structure, bark interest (river birch, red-twig dogwood), and berries left standing for both visual interest and wildlife</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Designing this way also means the &#8220;bones&#8221; of the landscape trees, evergreens, hardscape carry the property through the months when perennials are dormant, which is roughly half the year in this climate.</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Hardscaping That Survives Freeze-Thaw Cycles</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Plants aren&#8217;t the only thing tested by New England winters patios, walkways, and retaining walls take a beating too. Freeze-thaw cycling causes water trapped in small cracks to expand and contract repeatedly, which is the leading cause of cracked pavers, heaving walkways, and shifting walls in this region.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Practical safeguards:</p>
<ul class="[li_&amp;]:mb-0 [li_&amp;]:mt-1 [li_&amp;]:gap-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ul]:pb-1 [&amp;:not(:last-child)_ol]:pb-1 list-disc flex flex-col gap-1 pl-8 mb-3">
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Proper <strong>base depth and compaction</strong> (a common failure point inadequate gravel base is the #1 cause of hardscape heaving in cold climates)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Polymeric sand</strong> in paver joints, which resists washout better than standard sand</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2"><strong>Frost-depth footings</strong> for any retaining wall or structure, set below the local frost line (roughly 42–48 inches in much of Massachusetts)</li>
<li class="font-claude-response-body whitespace-normal break-words pl-2">Materials rated for freeze-thaw durability dense natural stone and properly sealed concrete pavers generally outperform porous or untreated materials</li>
</ul>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Cutting corners here doesn&#8217;t show up in year one it shows up in year three, once several freeze-thaw cycles have had a chance to do their damage.</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Working With a Local Landscape Professional</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">While a homeowner can absolutely select hardy plants and plan a layout independently, execution matters as much as plan proper drainage grading, frost-depth installation, and matching specific microclimates on your property to the right plant palette are easier to get right with local, hands-on experience. Firms rooted in this specific region, such as Land Design Associates in Walpole, work within Massachusetts and South Shore conditions regularly and can help translate a plant list into a landscape that&#8217;s actually built to hold up here. <em>(Insert your firm&#8217;s specific services, project examples, or link here.)</em></p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Frequently Asked Questions</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>What is the best approach to landscaping in cold climates like New England?</strong><br />
The most reliable approach combines region-specific plant selection (matched to your exact hardiness zone and microclimate), four-season design so the yard has structure year-round, and frost-resistant hardscaping installed at proper depth to survive freeze-thaw cycling.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>What are the hardiest plants for Massachusetts landscapes?</strong><br />
Inkberry holly, winterberry, arborvitae, serviceberry, and native ornamental grasses like little bluestem consistently perform well across Massachusetts hardiness zones, including exposed and coastal sites.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>How does coastal exposure change landscape design in New England?</strong><br />
Coastal and South Shore properties need salt-tolerant plants, windbreak layering to protect more delicate plantings, and improved drainage since salt spray and sandy soil create stresses that inland Massachusetts landscapes don&#8217;t face.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>Why do patios and walkways crack in cold New England climates?</strong><br />
Freeze-thaw cycling is usually the cause water trapped in the base or joints expands when it freezes, gradually shifting or cracking the surface. Proper base depth, compaction, and frost-depth footings prevent this.</p>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal"><strong>When is the best time to plant in Massachusetts?</strong><br />
Early fall (September through early October) and mid-spring (after the last hard frost, typically late April to May) are the two best planting windows, giving roots time to establish before extreme heat or cold sets in.</p>
<h3 class="text-text-100 mt-3 -mb-1 text-[1.125rem] font-bold">Final Thoughts</h3>
<p class="font-claude-response-body break-words whitespace-normal">Landscaping in cold climates rewards patience and the right information more than any other style of garden design. A Massachusetts or South Shore property planted with genuinely hardy, region-appropriate choices and hardscaped to withstand freeze-thaw stress won&#8217;t just survive one winter. It will look intentional and well-built for decades of them.</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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		<title>Designing Landscapes for Winter Interest, Wildlife, and Energy Efficiency in Medfield, Massachusetts</title>
		<link>https://landdesignassociates.com/winter-landscape-design-medfield-ma/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Land Design Associates]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2025 15:04:42 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Landscape Design and Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Investment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Plants and Trees]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Winter Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Greater Boston Landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Land Design Associates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[low-maintenance landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Needham]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Newton]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pollinator gardens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sustainable lawns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tapestry lawns]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Walpole]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wellesley]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Westwood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Winter Landscaping Native Plants Energy Efficient Design Walpole MA Landscaping Wildlife Friendly Landscape]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://landdesignassociates.com/?p=7244</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Replace high-maintenance grass with a beautiful, eco-friendly tapestry lawn. Land Design Associates designs and installs low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly lawns in Newton, Wellesley, Westwood, Needham, and Walpole.]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p data-start="3626" data-end="3873">In <strong data-start="3629" data-end="3656">Medfield, Massachusetts</strong>, winter is not an off-season—it’s a defining part of the landscape. A thoughtfully designed property should remain attractive, functional, and environmentally responsible even when temperatures drop and snow arrives.</p>
<p data-start="3875" data-end="4202">At <strong data-start="3878" data-end="3910">Land Design Associates, Inc.</strong>, we specialize in <strong data-start="3929" data-end="3987">custom landscape design, installation, and maintenance</strong> for Medfield homeowners and commercial properties. Our winter-conscious designs focus on <strong data-start="4077" data-end="4096">visual interest</strong>, <strong data-start="4098" data-end="4118">wildlife support</strong>, and <strong data-start="4124" data-end="4145">energy efficiency</strong>, ensuring your landscape adds value throughout the year.</p>
<hr data-start="4204" data-end="4207" />
<h2 data-start="4209" data-end="4264">Why Winter Landscape Design Is Essential in Medfield</h2>
<p data-start="4266" data-end="4393">Medfield’s wooded neighborhoods, open properties, and seasonal weather demand landscapes that perform beyond spring and summer.</p>
<p data-start="4395" data-end="4438">A professionally designed winter landscape:</p>
<ul data-start="4439" data-end="4631">
<li data-start="4439" data-end="4489">
<p data-start="4441" data-end="4489">Maintains curb appeal despite snow and leaf drop</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4490" data-end="4522">
<p data-start="4492" data-end="4522">Protects homes from cold winds</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4523" data-end="4558">
<p data-start="4525" data-end="4558">Supports local birds and wildlife</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4559" data-end="4594">
<p data-start="4561" data-end="4594">Improves safety and accessibility</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4595" data-end="4631">
<p data-start="4597" data-end="4631">Preserves long-term property value</p>
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-start="4633" data-end="4636" />
<h2 data-start="4638" data-end="4689">Evergreen Structure for Year-Round Visual Appeal</h2>
<p data-start="4691" data-end="4761">Evergreens form the foundation of winter landscape design in Medfield.</p>
<p data-start="4763" data-end="4809">Strategically placed trees and shrubs such as:</p>
<ul data-start="4810" data-end="4880">
<li data-start="4810" data-end="4822">
<p data-start="4812" data-end="4822">Arborvitae</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4823" data-end="4843">
<p data-start="4825" data-end="4843">Eastern White Pine</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4844" data-end="4853">
<p data-start="4846" data-end="4853">Hemlock</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4854" data-end="4863">
<p data-start="4856" data-end="4863">Boxwood</p>
</li>
<li data-start="4864" data-end="4880">
<p data-start="4866" data-end="4880">Inkberry Holly</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-start="4882" data-end="5039">provide year-round color, privacy, and wind protection. These plantings are especially valuable for Medfield properties with open exposure or wooded borders.</p>
<hr data-start="5041" data-end="5044" />
<h2 data-start="5046" data-end="5087">Deciduous Plants with Winter Character</h2>
<p data-start="5089" data-end="5176">Not all winter beauty is green. Many deciduous plants shine once leaves fall, offering:</p>
<ul data-start="5178" data-end="5274">
<li data-start="5178" data-end="5214">
<p data-start="5180" data-end="5214">Bright berries for visual contrast</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5215" data-end="5241">
<p data-start="5217" data-end="5241">Decorative bark textures</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5242" data-end="5274">
<p data-start="5244" data-end="5274">Strong architectural branching</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-start="5276" data-end="5324">Popular choices for Medfield landscapes include:</p>
<ul data-start="5325" data-end="5392">
<li data-start="5325" data-end="5344">
<p data-start="5327" data-end="5344">Winterberry Holly</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5345" data-end="5363">
<p data-start="5347" data-end="5363">Red Twig Dogwood</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5364" data-end="5377">
<p data-start="5366" data-end="5377">River Birch</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5378" data-end="5392">
<p data-start="5380" data-end="5392">Serviceberry</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-start="5394" data-end="5463">These plants add depth and interest while supporting native wildlife.</p>
<hr data-start="5465" data-end="5468" />
<h2 data-start="5470" data-end="5518">Wildlife-Friendly Landscaping in Medfield, MA</h2>
<p data-start="5520" data-end="5603">Medfield’s natural surroundings make wildlife-friendly design especially important.</p>
<h3 data-start="5605" data-end="5654">Native Plants That Feed Birds and Pollinators</h3>
<p data-start="5656" data-end="5859">Native Massachusetts plants provide reliable food sources during winter months when resources are scarce. Berry-producing shrubs and seed-bearing perennials attract birds while enhancing seasonal beauty.</p>
<p data-start="5861" data-end="5903">Common wildlife-supporting plants include:</p>
<ul data-start="5904" data-end="5959">
<li data-start="5904" data-end="5916">
<p data-start="5906" data-end="5916">Coneflower</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5917" data-end="5930">
<p data-start="5919" data-end="5930">Switchgrass</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5931" data-end="5948">
<p data-start="5933" data-end="5948">Little Bluestem</p>
</li>
<li data-start="5949" data-end="5959">
<p data-start="5951" data-end="5959">Viburnum</p>
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-start="5961" data-end="5964" />
<h3 data-start="5966" data-end="6001">Creating Shelter Through Design</h3>
<p data-start="6003" data-end="6177">Layered plantings, stone walls, and naturalized areas provide shelter from wind and snow. These elements allow wildlife to thrive without sacrificing aesthetics or usability.</p>
<hr data-start="6179" data-end="6182" />
<h2 data-start="6184" data-end="6234">Energy-Efficient Landscaping for Medfield Homes</h2>
<p data-start="6236" data-end="6309">Thoughtful landscape design can significantly reduce winter energy costs.</p>
<h3 data-start="6311" data-end="6335">Windbreaks That Work</h3>
<p data-start="6337" data-end="6477">Evergreens placed on the <strong data-start="6362" data-end="6391">north and northwest sides</strong> of a home act as natural windbreaks, reducing heat loss and improving indoor comfort.</p>
<p data-start="6479" data-end="6596">Properly designed landscapes can lower heating costs by up to <strong data-start="6541" data-end="6548">25%</strong>—a major benefit during Medfield’s long winters.</p>
<hr data-start="6598" data-end="6601" />
<h3 data-start="6603" data-end="6635">Snow Management and Drainage</h3>
<p data-start="6637" data-end="6725">Land Design Associates designs landscapes that manage snow and meltwater effectively by:</p>
<ul data-start="6726" data-end="6862">
<li data-start="6726" data-end="6766">
<p data-start="6728" data-end="6766">Directing runoff away from foundations</p>
</li>
<li data-start="6767" data-end="6803">
<p data-start="6769" data-end="6803">Preventing ice buildup on walkways</p>
</li>
<li data-start="6804" data-end="6862">
<p data-start="6806" data-end="6862">Protecting patios and hardscapes from freeze-thaw damage</p>
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-start="6864" data-end="6867" />
<h2 data-start="6869" data-end="6912">Hardscapes Built for New England Winters</h2>
<p data-start="6914" data-end="6996">Stone walls, walkways, and patios provide year-round function and visual interest.</p>
<p data-start="6998" data-end="7032">Our Medfield clients benefit from:</p>
<ul data-start="7033" data-end="7179">
<li data-start="7033" data-end="7081">
<p data-start="7035" data-end="7081">Durable materials suited to freeze-thaw cycles</p>
</li>
<li data-start="7082" data-end="7119">
<p data-start="7084" data-end="7119">Improved winter traction and safety</p>
</li>
<li data-start="7120" data-end="7179">
<p data-start="7122" data-end="7179">Timeless design that complements New England architecture</p>
</li>
</ul>
<hr data-start="7181" data-end="7184" />
<h2 data-start="7186" data-end="7214">Winter Landscape Lighting</h2>
<p data-start="7216" data-end="7270">With shorter days, outdoor lighting becomes essential.</p>
<p data-start="7272" data-end="7306">Professionally installed lighting:</p>
<ul data-start="7307" data-end="7458">
<li data-start="7307" data-end="7354">
<p data-start="7309" data-end="7354">Improves safety around walkways and entrances</p>
</li>
<li data-start="7355" data-end="7412">
<p data-start="7357" data-end="7412">Highlights trees, stonework, and architectural features</p>
</li>
<li data-start="7413" data-end="7458">
<p data-start="7415" data-end="7458">Enhances curb appeal during winter evenings</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-start="7460" data-end="7537">Energy-efficient LED systems ensure performance without excessive energy use.</p>
<hr data-start="7539" data-end="7542" />
<h2 data-start="7544" data-end="7597">Why Medfield Clients Choose Land Design Associates</h2>
<p data-start="7599" data-end="7695">As a locally based company serving <strong data-start="7634" data-end="7663">Medfield and Metro Boston</strong>, Land Design Associates brings:</p>
<ul data-start="7696" data-end="7870">
<li data-start="7696" data-end="7747">
<p data-start="7698" data-end="7747">Deep knowledge of Massachusetts climate and soils</p>
</li>
<li data-start="7748" data-end="7807">
<p data-start="7750" data-end="7807">Integrated design, installation, and maintenance services</p>
</li>
<li data-start="7808" data-end="7870">
<p data-start="7810" data-end="7870">Proven experience with residential and commercial properties</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p data-start="7872" data-end="7923">We design landscapes that work—season after season.</p>
<hr data-start="7925" data-end="7928" />
<h2 data-start="7930" data-end="7981">Plan Your Medfield Landscape with Winter in Mind</h2>
<p data-start="7983" data-end="8145">Winter is the ideal time to plan improvements for spring and beyond. A well-designed landscape delivers beauty, efficiency, and environmental value all year long.</p>
<p data-start="8147" data-end="8259"><strong data-start="8147" data-end="8187">Contact Land Design Associates, Inc.</strong> to begin designing a winter-ready landscape for your Medfield property.</p>
<p data-start="8147" data-end="8259">Book a design consultation here <a href="https://landdesignassociates.com/design-build-form/">https://landdesignassociates.com/design-build-form/</a></p>
<p data-start="8737" data-end="8927"><br data-start="8798" data-end="8801" />🌐 <strong data-start="8804" data-end="8818">Portfolio:</strong> <a class="decorated-link" href="https://landdesignassociates.com/featured-projects/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_new" rel="noopener" data-start="8819" data-end="8925">https://landdesignassociates.com/featured-projects/</a></p>
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		<title>5 Ways To Choose Between a Fire Pit or Fireplace</title>
		<link>https://landdesignassociates.com/fire-pit-vs-fireplace-outdoor-living-massachusetts/</link>
					<comments>https://landdesignassociates.com/fire-pit-vs-fireplace-outdoor-living-massachusetts/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Land Design Associates]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Apr 2019 14:34:34 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Landscape Design and Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patios and Walkways]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Winter Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Backyard Patio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cambridge Pavers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Delgado Stone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fire Feature]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fire pit design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gas Fire Pit]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hardscape Design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Land Design Associates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[landscape design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Needham MA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Newton MA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Outdoor Fireplace]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor living]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Patio Design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stoneyard]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Techo-Bloc]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Walpole MA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wellesley MA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wood Burning Fireplace]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://landdesignassociates.com/?p=1560</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[&#8220;Should I get a fire pit or fireplace?&#8221; &#8230; That&#8217;s a question we hear a lot.  Which would you prefer to gather around with your friends? Each has its pros and cons.  Consider the following 5 things when choosing what’s best for your family: 1. Seating Many people choose a circular fire pit because they [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">&#8220;Should I get a fire pit or fireplace?&#8221;</span></h2>
<p><strong>&#8230; That&#8217;s a question we hear a lot.  Which would you prefer to gather around with your friends? Each has its pros and cons.  Consider the following 5 things when choosing what’s best for your family:</strong></p>
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<h3><b>1. Seating</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Many people choose a circular fire pit because they feel it offers more space for guests to pull chairs around than a fireplace.  We build fire pits so that the top is just at the right height to allow many people to put their feet up while enjoying a glass of wine and good conversation.  For a fireplace, we usually build a raised hearth also to give people a place to sit next to the fire and also to put their feet up and relax. </span></p>
<h3><b>2. Garden Focal Point</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Having a beautifully crafted fireplace as the focal point of your outdoor living area will add a lot to how your space feels.  After all, the fireplace is the iconic symbol of “home.” It suggests a central anchor for family and friends. Even when viewed from inside the house while washing dishes at the kitchen sink, the fireplace will evoke memories of family events with the laughter and warmth of the times spent in front of it.  So the picturesque quality of a nice stone fireplace can give you a feeling of warmth even when it&#8217;s not in use.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-size: 80%;">Gas Firepit with seating for the whole family in Wellesley, MA       </span></p>
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			<img decoding="async" width="1020" height="682" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/wellesley-ma-fireplace-backyard-1196x800.jpg" class="attachment-large size-large" alt="fireplace, patio, retaining walls, under cap lighting" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/wellesley-ma-fireplace-backyard-1196x800.jpg 1196w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/wellesley-ma-fireplace-backyard-598x400.jpg 598w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/wellesley-ma-fireplace-backyard-768x514.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/wellesley-ma-fireplace-backyard-600x401.jpg 600w" sizes="(max-width: 1020px) 100vw, 1020px" />						
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<p><span style="font-size: 80%;">Wood burning fireplace in Needham, MA</span></p>
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<h3><b>3. Smoke</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Both fire pits and fireplaces can be wood burning or gas burning. Do you want the romance of crackling wood and the aroma of wafting smoke bringing you back to campfires as a kid?  Some folks say that they absolutely love the old-time ambiance of a wood fire on a crisp evening. Others don’t like their clothes and hair smelling like smoke or the added annoyance of having to move their chairs around to get out of the way of blowing smoke.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Also keep in mind that a wood burning fireplace will smell of ashes if it is not cleaned out or covered from the rain. Gas units burn clean and there is no smell. The heat produced is the same for both. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There is a new product we love called a “nearly smokeless fire pit” from </span><a href="https://breeollc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Breeo</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> (and our clients love it too).  The unit pulls smoke down under the edges of the fire pit where it is heated and re-burned, producing a nearly smokeless fire pit. It’s relatively inexpensive and is a great new technology we recommend you consider if you want the romance of a fire pit without all the smoke.</span></p>
<h3><b>4. Cost</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fireplaces, while gorgeous, are roughly two to three times more expensive than fire pits. Gas inserts for either fire feature type will add roughly $2,000 to $4,000 depending on the style you choose. Running gas lines from the house will add roughly $3,000 to $5,000. </span></p>
<h3><b>5. Materials</b></h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Natural stone from producers such as </span><a href="https://www.delgadostone.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Delgado Stone</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span><a href="https://stoneyard.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Stoneyard</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> is the optimal choice for fire pits and fireplaces; however, the cost is much higher than the alternative material &#8211; concrete block.  While the phrase may not sound appealing, concrete block products from </span><a href="https://unilock.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Unilock</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">, </span><a href="https://www.techo-bloc.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Techo-Bloc</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> and </span>Cambridge Pavers do<span style="font-weight: 400;"> look very good. If you find the right style, texture and color, you can save a lot of budget on the installation and material cost.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Let the experts at Land Design Associates help you choose the right fire feature for your outdoor living space.  With more than 20 years experience, we have the knowledge and skill to advise you and install the type you choose.  Browse our portfolio <a href="https://landdesignassociates.com/featured-projects/">here</a>. Or, if you&#8217;d like to get started, contact us <a href="https://landdesignassociates.com/contact/">here</a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;">.</span></p>
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		<title>How To Dress Your Home For The Holidays: Colorful Winter Landscaping</title>
		<link>https://landdesignassociates.com/winter-landscaping-color-holiday-home-ma/</link>
					<comments>https://landdesignassociates.com/winter-landscaping-color-holiday-home-ma/#respond</comments>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Land Design Associates]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Tue, 11 Dec 2018 20:07:05 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Winter Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Landscape Design and Planning]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Plants and Trees]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bark Texture Trees]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Beautyberry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Colorful Winter Plants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Coral Bark Maple]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[curb appeal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hellebore]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Holiday Landscape Design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Land Design Associates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[landscape design]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Massachusetts Landscapers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Norfolk County MA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Red Twig Dogwood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Seasonal Landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stewartia]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Walpole MA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wellesley MA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[winter landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Winterberry Shrubs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Witch Hazel]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://landdesignassociates.com/?p=1501</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[After the leaves fall, the flowers are long gone and cold settles in, your yard can look incredibly bleak; however, that doesn&#8217;t mean you have to settle for a monochromatic blanket of white&#8230;   While shopping for the bright and bold flowers for the spring and summer is fun, planning ahead for winter interest and [...]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h4><span style="font-weight: 400;">After the leaves fall, the flowers are long gone and cold settles in, your yard can look incredibly bleak; however, that doesn&#8217;t mean you have to settle for a monochromatic blanket of white&#8230;  </span></h4>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While shopping for the bright and bold flowers for the spring and summer is fun, planning ahead for winter interest and color also offers its own rewards. To get some nice color in the winter, plant these trees and shrubs where you can easily view them from inside your house. There are a few other ways to add that much-needed pop of color in the bleak winter months.</span></p>
<h2></h2>
<h2></h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>1. Interesting Tree Bark</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Plants with interesting bark are stars without their foliage and really shine in the winter. These trees and shrubs are beautiful in summer and winter when the bark is normally</span> overlooked. Stems and trunks with peeling bark resemble cinnamon, such as the Paperbark Maple and climbing hydrangea.</p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1508" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/paperbark-maple-1-267x400.jpg" alt="" width="333" height="499" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/paperbark-maple-1-267x400.jpg 267w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/paperbark-maple-1-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/paperbark-maple-1-534x800.jpg 534w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/paperbark-maple-1-600x900.jpg 600w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/paperbark-maple-1.jpg 1772w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px" /></p>
<p><strong>Paperback Maple</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Try a Stewartia with a camouflaged appearance. Stewartia is a small tree that flowers mid-summer. Both of these trees work well in smaller garden or closer to the home where you can view them up close.</span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1509" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/stewartia-bark-1-560x400.jpg" alt="" width="760" height="542" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/stewartia-bark-1-560x400.jpg 560w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/stewartia-bark-1-768x549.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/stewartia-bark-1-1120x800.jpg 1120w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/stewartia-bark-1-600x429.jpg 600w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/stewartia-bark-1.jpg 1772w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 760px) 100vw, 760px" /></p>
<p><strong>Stewertia</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3></h3>
<h2>2. Colorful Branches</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Coral Bark Maple is a small tree with brilliant bark on its young branches. As the foliage drops in autumn, the tree’s bark begins to turn an attractive coral-pink which intensifies in cold weather. The winter bark color is deeper the more sun it receives. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1506" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/coral-bark-maple-604x400.jpg" alt="" width="786" height="520" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/coral-bark-maple-604x400.jpg 604w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/coral-bark-maple-768x509.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/coral-bark-maple-1208x800.jpg 1208w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/coral-bark-maple-600x397.jpg 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 786px) 100vw, 786px" /></p>
<p><strong>Coral Maple Bark</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Although fairly boring in the summer, red twig dogwoods add cheery colors in yellow, orange and fiery reds in winter. The branch color persists all season long and is dramatic when planted in masses. They require cutting back every few years as newer branches have the boldest color. ‘Mid-Winter Fire’ and ‘Arctic Fire’ are good choices. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1511" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/red-twig-dogwood-1-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="785" height="524" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/red-twig-dogwood-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/red-twig-dogwood-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/red-twig-dogwood-1-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/red-twig-dogwood-1.jpg 1772w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 785px) 100vw, 785px" /></p>
<p><strong>Red Twig Dogwoods</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3></h3>
<h2>3. Bright Berries</h2>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Beautyberry is a native shrub found in the southeast that grows 3-5 foot tall and wide with arching stems. Its foliage is not spectacular and is hardly worth looking at. As the foliage turns in fall and the leaves drop, the stems are concealed by bunches of small bright berries. The large amount of bright purple berries is striking during a time when there isn’t anything else found this color during winter. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1504" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/beautyberry-1-712x400.jpg" alt="" width="812" height="456" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/beautyberry-1-712x400.jpg 712w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/beautyberry-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/beautyberry-1-1400x787.jpg 1400w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/beautyberry-1-600x337.jpg 600w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 812px) 100vw, 812px" /></p>
<p><strong>Beautyberry</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Winterberry provides a winter show of abundant bright red berries covering the stems that can persist into spring. It’s a large, native shrub found in wetland areas along the east coast. Once the leaves have dropped, you are left with an astonishing view of thousands of berries adorning every stem. The cut stems are a bright addition to holiday cut greens. The berries are usually red but yellow varieties may be also be found. (‘Berry Heavy Gold’) This is an easy plant to grow and has few problems but keep in mind that it suckers and will grow very large. One male winterberry (‘Jim Dandy’) is required to pollinate female shrubs for heavier fruiting. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1512" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/winterberry-1-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="818" height="545" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/winterberry-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/winterberry-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/winterberry-1-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/winterberry-1.jpg 1772w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 818px) 100vw, 818px" /></p>
<p><strong>Winterberry</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Checkerberry is an evergreen groundcover that is native to eastern North America. Leaves are glossy, rounded and leathery and the plant grows 3-6 inches high. Plants will spread over time to form a groundcover. White flowers appear early summer and change into edible bright red berries. Leaves and berries have the aroma and taste of wintergreen. This plant grows well in shade with medium water requirements.‘Berry Heavy’® Heavier berry set than the species Try ‘Red Sprite’ for a more compact variety that grows to only 2-3 feet. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1514" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/checkerberry-1-533x400.jpg" alt="" width="827" height="621" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/checkerberry-1-533x400.jpg 533w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/checkerberry-1-768x576.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/checkerberry-1-1067x800.jpg 1067w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/checkerberry-1-600x450.jpg 600w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/checkerberry-1.jpg 1772w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 827px) 100vw, 827px" /></p>
<p><strong>Checkerberry</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3>4. Plant late winter/early spring bloomers</h3>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Kick winter gloom with early bloomers. Witch Hazel, also native, blooms February/March with yellow to copper blooms and is one of the first plants to flower in New England. Give it some space as it will can become more than 12 feet wide. </span></p>
<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-1515" src="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/witch-hazel-1-600x400.jpg" alt="" width="828" height="552" srcset="https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/witch-hazel-1-600x400.jpg 600w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/witch-hazel-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/witch-hazel-1-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://landdesignassociates.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/witch-hazel-1.jpg 1772w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 828px) 100vw, 828px" /></p>
<p><strong>Witch Hazel</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lenten Rose has semi-evergreen foliage and blooms in February-April. The flowers pop up before new foliage and remain for several weeks. The foliage will look tired by spring, so freshen it up by cutting it back. </span></p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Not to be overlooked, crocus planted in a warm sunny spot are reliably one of the first harbingers of spring.</span></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">No matter what you’re looking for in a landscape for your home, the </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">experts </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">at </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">Land Design Associates</span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> can help. <a href="https://landdesignassociates.com/contact/">Contact us</a> today t</span><span style="font-weight: 400;">o learn more or give us a call at 781-769-3286.</span></p>
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