Blog

Winter Is Coming: How to Prepare Your Landscape Before the Cold Hits

The leaves have fallen, the nights are longer, and there’s a chill in the air — winter is on its way. While your garden might look like it’s winding down for the season, now is actually one of the most important times to give it a little attention. A few smart steps this fall can protect your plants, trees, and outdoor spaces from harsh weather and set the stage for a beautiful comeback in spring. Protect Your Plants from the Freeze Cold snaps can take a toll on even hardy... Read More

Your Trees vs. The Wind

Every fall, the same story plays out across the Northwest. The skies darken, the wind howls, and the trees that stood tall all summer suddenly have to prove their strength. Branches whip, leaves scatter, and homeowners hold their breath — hoping the old maple near the fence can hang on just a little longer. Wind has a way of revealing what’s hidden. A tree might look healthy, but years of unnoticed stress — compacted soil, poor pruning, or slow root decay — can turn it ... Read More

Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Have a Professional Arborist Look at Your Trees

As the weather cools and the wind picks up, fall brings not only beautiful color—but also a higher risk of damage from storms. Strong gusts, heavy rain, and saturated soil can all put stress on trees, especially if they’re older, overgrown, or weakened from summer heat. That’s why autumn is one of the most important times of year to have your trees professionally inspected. Prevent Storm Damage Before It Happens Fall windstorms can cause branches—or even whole trees&... Read More

The Beauty of Fall Color: Why Autumn is Nature’s Coolest Season

As summer fades and cooler days roll in, something magical happens in the landscape — fall color takes center stage. At Grote’s Garden Design, this is one of our favorite times of year. The transformation from green to gold, crimson, and amber isn’t just a sign of the seasons changing — it’s a reminder of how powerful color can be in shaping the mood and beauty of your outdoor space. Nature’s Most Dramatic Show Every autumn, trees and shrubs put on a displa... Read More

The Added Value of a Deck: Why Building One Could Be a Smart Investment for Your Home

When it comes to enhancing your outdoor living space, few improvements can add as much value and enjoyment as a deck. Whether you're envisioning a simple spot for morning coffee, a gathering place for friends and family, or an outdoor retreat to relax and unwind, a well-designed deck can transform your backyard into a functional and beautiful extension of your home. But beyond the aesthetic and practical benefits, did you know that adding a deck to your home can also increase its market value? ... Read More

How to Compost Leaves for a Healthier Garden

As autumn rolls in, your yard is likely covered with a blanket of colorful leaves. While raking them up may feel like an endless task, leaves don't need to be a burden. In fact, they can be transformed into a valuable resource for your garden: compost! Composting leaves not only reduces yard waste but also provides you with nutrient-rich material that can improve your soil, boost plant health, and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the si... Read More

How French Drains Work: A Simple Solution for Yard Drainage

If you've ever dealt with standing water in your yard or noticed soggy patches around your foundation, you're probably familiar with the frustration that poor drainage can cause. Whether it's rainwater pooling in your garden beds, a soggy lawn that never seems to dry out, or water seeping into your basement, excess moisture can lead to a host of problems—both inside and outside your home. One of the most effective and time-tested solutions for managing water drainage is a French drain. B... Read More

Why It’s Important to Have an Arborist Evaluate the Trees in Your Landscape

Trees are an essential part of any landscape, providing beauty, shade, and environmental benefits. But while they enhance the aesthetic value of your property, trees can also present hidden risks if they’re not properly cared for. Whether it’s a towering oak, a stately pine, or a beloved fruit tree, trees require ongoing attention to ensure their health and safety.  One of the best ways to protect your trees—and your property—is by having a certified arborist evalu... Read More

What Plants to Prune in the Fall: A Guide for Washington’s West Side Gardeners

As autumn settles in across the West Side of Washington State, our gardens begin to wind down for the year. While fall is often seen as a time to let plants rest, it's also the perfect time to prune certain species to encourage healthy growth in the spring. Understanding which plants benefit from fall pruning in our climate—characterized by its mild, rainy winters and temperate summers—can help you keep your garden looking tidy and set it up for success next year. In this post, we&... Read More