Autumn Joy Stonecrop garden layout

How to Use Autumn Joy Stonecrop in Your Garden Layout

Posted by Landscape Plus on

Looking for a plant that adds structure, colour, and seasonal flair without asking much in return? Autumn Joy Stonecrop is a landscaping favourite for a reason—and it’s especially well-suited to our Strathmore and Calgary climate.

Whether you’re reworking a garden bed or designing from scratch, here are some smart ways to work this low-maintenance perennial into your layout.

1. Use It in Mass Plantings for Bold Colour Blocks
Autumn Joy makes a statement when planted in clusters. Its tidy mounds of succulent, grey-green foliage stay neat all season, and come late summer, those clusters burst into salmon-pink blooms that fade to rusty red in fall.

Design Tip: Use groupings of three or more for maximum impact. Perfect for front yard curb appeal or large garden borders.

2. Edge Your Borders with Texture and Shape
The plant’s upright, rounded form naturally defines garden edges. It creates clean lines and a polished look while adding softness with its domed flower heads.

Design Tip: Line pathways or garden borders with Autumn Joy to subtly guide the eye and keep beds looking well-composed.

3. Make It the “Thriller” in Container Designs
Autumn Joy is tall and sculptural enough to anchor a container arrangement. Use it as the centerpiece and surround it with trailing or low-growing companions like creeping jenny, ornamental grasses, or purple alyssum.

Design Tip: Use containers on patios or decks where you want visual interest through the end of fall. Just remember: perennials in pots may need extra protection over winter.

autumn joy stonecrop images for garden design

4. Pair It with Grasses and Drought-Tolerant Friends
This sedum shines in xeriscapes or low-water designs. Pair it with ornamental grasses, echinacea, or Russian sage for a look that’s wild, structured, and water-wise.

Design Tip: Contrast its full, rounded form with the vertical movement of tall grasses to add depth and balance.

5. Fill Gaps with a Reliable, Long-Lived Filler

Because it thrives in poor soils, handles urban conditions, and lives up to 15 years, Autumn Joy is a great long-term investment for patchy areas or spaces that need a boost of interest.

Design Tip: Don’t overthink it—drop one in any full-sun spot where you need texture and lasting colour.

Need Help With the Layout? We’ve Got You Covered
At Landscape Plus, we don’t just recommend great plants—we help you design with purpose. Sign up for our newsletter for more landscaping insights.

Office Administrator Assistant Part-Time Landscape Plus Strathmore

Office Administrator Assistant Part-Time

Posted by Landscape Plus on

Office Administrator Assistant Part-Time

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Communicate with staff, customers and suppliers in a professional and courteous manner
  • Input data into office software, such as Quickbooks and LMN
  • Technology support, including printers, email, internet etc.
  • Use Microsoft Office, Outlook, Quick Books and LMN efficiently
  • Help coordinate regular staff team building events
  • Maintain a clean office

Skills and Abilities:

  • Exemplary communication skills both in writing and vocabulary including conflict resolution
  • Excellent time management skills, self-motivated and can work independently as well as in a team
  • Ability to be flexible in a fast paced environment
  • Proficient use of computers and Microsoft, knowledge of Quickbooks is an asset
  • Committed to self-improvement and a willingness to learn new skills including Landscape Management Network program
  • Flexible with fluctuating working hours

Working Conditions:

  • Office is located 20 minutes from Strathmore on gravel roads.
  • Dogs and cats are on site
  • Weekdays – with a weekly average of 15-20 hours/week, extended hours in the peak season
  • Starting immediately

Wages:

  • $18-$19 per hour, dependent upon experience

If you are interested in this opportunity, please email  info@landscape-plus.net your cover letter and resume.

Landscape Plus has been a leading landscape construction company located in Strathmore, AB for 31 years.  Landscape Plus is recognized for taking care of its employees, customers, and landscapes. Our area of expertise is creating healthy and appealing landscapes for residential and commercial properties.  Landscape Plus is a growing company and looking for individuals who are passionate about positively sustaining the environment and providing our customers with exceptional landscapes. Our core values align with the acronym G.I.V.E. – Gratitude, Integrity, Value, Excellence.

The Benefits of Working with Landscape Plus: Proper Equipment Makes a Difference

Posted by amy on

Working with Landscape Plus in Strathmore, we understand that having the right tools is essential for delivering exceptional results. That’s why we’re excited to spotlight one of our key pieces of equipment: the Toolcat by Bobcat.

First introduced to us back in 2004, the Toolcat was a game-changer when it first hit the market. Now, with years of reliable service, it continues to prove its worth. Here’s why having top-quality equipment like the Toolcat is so important for our team and our customers:

Working with landscape plus - working with tools like the toolcat by bobcat

Versatility and Efficiency

The Toolcat is incredibly versatile, equipped with a dump box, towing capabilities, and the ability to use various attachments.

Those who live around here know that our climate means that any successful landscaper is doing a variety of jobs in in a variety of conditions to keep busy year round. The Toolcat tackles a wide range of tasks efficiently, whether it’s winter snow removal or spring sweeping.

The adaptability of this machine allows us to handle different challenges with ease, ensuring your project is completed effectively and on time.

Speed and Accessibility

With a top speed of 30 km/h, the Toolcat is not only powerful but also fast. This speed allows us to move quickly, saving time and money.

To truly understand the importance of quick work, try getting to work after a blizzard in Alberta! The crews that are out and about getting the job done ensure that your morning commute is smooth sailing.

Cost-Effectiveness

Investing in high-quality equipment might seem like a big upfront cost, but it pays off in the long run. The Toolcat’s reliability and efficiency reduce the need for frequent repairs and replacements.

Our goal is to extend the life of our tools with proper care and maintenance. Investing in quality equipment in the first place keeps our costs down in the long run.

For our customers, this translates into more cost-effective services. We can maintain competitive rates while still delivering superior results because our tools help us get the job done right the first time.

Working with Landscape Plus means Reliability and Experience

Our commitment to using top-notch equipment reflects our dedication to providing the best service possible. With the Toolcat and other advanced tools in our arsenal, we bring years of expertise and reliability to every project.

Our equipment’s performance and our skilled team’s experience ensure that you receive the highest standard of service.

Choosing Landscape Plus means you’re working with a team that prioritizes quality and efficiency. Trust us with your landscaping needs and experience the difference that the right tools can make!

Landscape Crew Member

Posted by Landscape Plus on

Landscape Crew Member

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Assist in job-related tasks to complete the construction of landscapes including digging, planting, loading and unloading of materials 
  • Operate various tools such as shovels, hammers, drills, saws
  • Assist with grounds maintenance including mowing, trimming, pruning and snow clearing
  • Work as team member to complete landscape projects efficiently and with quality workmanship

Skills and Abilities:

  • Time management skills
  • Ability to work both independently and with a team
  • Ability to walk, stand, and crouch for long periods of time
  • Carry a minimum of 30 lbs. and have good manual dexterity
  • Ability to be flexible in a fast-paced environment
  • Committed to self-improvement and a willingness to learn new skills
  • Ability to carry out strenuous physical tasks in various outdoor conditions including heat, rain, dust, noise and cold
  • Must have a valid driver’s licence and safe driving record

Working Conditions:

  • Love of working outdoors is essential and the willingness to work in bad weather conditions i.e. rain, heat and cold weather
  • Ability to walk, stand and crouch for extended periods of time
  • During the peak season is willing to work extended hours if needed

If you are interested in this opportunity, please email info@landscape-plus.net your cover letter and resume.

bark mulch thickness alberta landscape plus

Using Bark Mulch in Alberta

Posted by Landscape Plus on

In Alberta, the recommended thickness for applying bark mulch in a flower bed is typically between 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm). This thickness provides sufficient coverage to reap the benefits of mulching while allowing for proper air and water circulation in the soil.

Here are a few considerations regarding mulch thickness

Weed suppression

To effectively suppress weed growth, it is essential to apply a thick enough layer of mulch. A 2 to 4-inch thickness helps smother weed seeds and prevents them from receiving enough sunlight to germinate.

Moisture retention

A mulch layer of 2 to 4 inches is generally effective in retaining moisture in the soil. It helps reduce water evaporation and maintains a more consistent level of soil moisture, which is particularly valuable in Alberta’s climate.

Organic matter decomposition

Over time, the bark mulch will decompose and contribute organic matter to the soil. A thicker layer of mulch allows for a gradual breakdown, enriching the soil with nutrients and improving its structure.

Aesthetics and plant health

Applying a proper thickness of mulch enhances the visual appeal of the flower bed while providing insulation and protection to the plant roots. It helps regulate soil temperature, prevents erosion, and supports healthy plant growth.

It’s important to note that excessive mulch thickness can create problems such as reduced air circulation, moisture retention leading to over-saturated soil, and potential root suffocation. Therefore, it’s recommended to maintain the mulch layer within the suggested range of 2 to 4 inches for optimal results.

Kerry’s Tip: At the trunk,  start with a thin layer of mulch to allow sufficient airflow.  Moving away from the trunk, the mulch can get thicker increasing to 3-4 inches in the spaces between the plants.

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