New Year Landscape Resolutions for Property Managers and HOA Boards

Overview

The start of a new year is a good time to set goals for your property's landscape. Budgets are fresh, the growing season is still months away, and there is time to plan projects before crews get busy in spring. Here are resolutions worth adding to the list.

Curb appeal and enhancements

• Walk the property with your landscaper in late winter and list what to fix before spring.
• Refresh the entry and monument sign beds with seasonal color.
• Add containers at leasing offices, clubhouses and storefronts.
• Plan one amenity upgrade, such as a fire feature or grill station.
• Add a specimen tree as a focal point at a high-visibility spot.
• Add landscape lighting to dark walkways and entry signs.

Maintenance

• Review your maintenance scope so you know what is included and what is extra.
• Ask for a property map that shows service areas and snow piles.
• Have an ISA certified arborist look at large trees near walks and buildings.
• Do a soil test in beds where plants keep struggling.

Water efficiency

• Schedule an irrigation water audit before the season starts. See what an irrigation audit is.
• Upgrade to a smart irrigation controller.
• Map turf that nobody uses and price a turf conversion.
• Top up organic mulch to hold moisture and feed the soil.
• Add sustainable landscape elements in your next renovation.

Planning and budgets

• Put larger projects into phases that fit this year's budget. See our guide to budgeting a landscape project.
• Set up a simple log for landscape issues with dates, locations and photos.
• Agree with your landscaper on how and when you will get updates.

If you need help with any of these, Reno Green is happy to walk the property with you. Request a free quote.