1. How do I get grass out of my flowerbeds? For most problems, there is a product called Over-the-Top that can be used.  On the inside label of the product there are directions about what level of harm can come to plants around the area where applied. 

2. How much mulch, topsoil, or river rock will my truck hold? It will vary depending on the size of the truck and the material.  Generally speaking, with dry conditions, an 8-ft. truck bed will hold the following: 1-2 yards of mulch, 1/2-1 yard of topsoil, river rock, sand, compost, and pea gravel.  For prices on these products, please visit our products page.

3. Why should I amend my soil? You should always add a compost mixture when adding a new plant.  This will help the plant to establish without having to overcome rocky or clay terrain while establishing its' root system.

4. What are some fast growing shade trees? There are many choices for fast growing shade trees that will provide shade.  Here are a few: October Glory Maple, Tulip Poplar, Sycamore, and Green Ash.

5. What would make a good hedge? You can use either Wax Leaf Ligustrum or Arborvitae, if planted closely together. 

6. How can I get rid of mosquitoes? There are several ways to keep those pesky critters at bay.  You can add to your landscape the plants Scented Geranium and Marigolds.  If you have a fountain or water feature, add a Mosquito Dunk or you can add Microbe-Lift BMC.  Another option is burning Sandalwood sticks in the area you plan to be. 

7. Can I get rid of the algae in my pond or fountain? For a non-toxic solution, use Microbe-Lift PL.  This product is natural and will not harm fish, animals, or humans.  It will help reduce the algae and aid in keeping your water clear and healthy. 

8. What are the small round items in the plant I just bought? Don't be alarmed, it is just fertilizer.  Sometimes it is a product called Oscomote, which is a form of fertilizer.  You treat them as you would any fertilizer. 

9. When is it safe to plant? For spring planting in Arkansas, you can generally plan to start placing plants outside after April 15th.  This is typically a safe date for the last bit of expected frost. 

10. What are some good shade plants? You might be surprised at the large variety of choices you have.  There are foliage plants, perennials, annuals, trees, and more.  The best news is that you do not have to sacrifice flowers if you have a lot of shade.  There is something for everyone, no matter your preference.  For ideas, please stop by our nursery or give us a call.

11. What is an RPZ? This mechanical assembly, know as a Reduced Pressure Zone, consists of eight different parts.  Four test cocks, two shut-off valves, and two independently operating spring-loaded check valves with a reduced pressure zone between the checks.  The purpose of this device is to prevent back pressure and back siphonage.

12. Is it important for all irrigation systems to be winterized? Yes.  In Arkansas, winter temperatures can damage your system if not winterized or winterized properly.  RPZ's are made from bronze and can crack and burst if not drained.  Horticare suggest winterizing your system in late October.  Winterization involves turning off the source of water, at the meter, removing the RPZ, turning the controller off and bleeding water and pressure from irrigation lines.

Horticare does offer this service.  Call 501-407-2727 for an appointment. 

13. When do I fertilize my lawn? Download this chart for an easy-to-use apply by holiday fertilzation chart.

14. Do you deliver or provide services to my area? For a fee, Horticare will deliver to almost anywhere in Central Arkansas.  In Little Rock, the delivery charge is $60.00 and goes up according to the distance out.  Visit our delivery page for more information. We provide our other services throughout the entire Central Arkansas area.

15. Do you give free estimates? Our Chemical, Irrigation, and Maintenance divisions provide free estimates all year long.  However, due to a large influx of calls and clients from spring through fall, our landscaping division charges a consultation fee of $75-$100 that is typically applied to the work.  During the slower months (usually September to February), there is no fee for landscape consultation.  

16. How can I keep animals out of my garden? To keep dogs and cats out of your garden, there are two products you can use: Fertilome's Dog-Gon, in granules or spray, and De-Fence pellets.   To keep our deer, rabbits, or squirrels, there are also two products you can use: Fertilome's Rabbit & Deer Repellent or the product Deer Off.  These can be used on edibles as well.