Homeowners know that landscaping in our climate isn’t just about keeping up appearances it’s about planning for beauty, function, and longevity.
This week, Crenshaw Landscapes is doing exactly that.
We’re starting a full-yard landscape renovation, meticulously following a custom plan that transforms a dated, cluttered space into a refreshed outdoor environment that’s clean, smartly laid out, and built to last.
“Hi! This is Sarah with Crenshaw Landscapes, and it is another beautiful day in Houston. Today we are starting a new job at a client’s house that includes renovations per plan”
What follows is a deep dive into what makes this project unique and why it reflects the kind of comprehensive service Crenshaw Landscapes is known for.
Clear the Canvas Removal, Haul-Off & Bed Preparation
Every successful renovation starts with removing what doesn’t work.
That’s why we begin with plant removal, hauling away old debris, and prepping garden beds for the transformation ahead.
Here’s what our initial steps include:
- Old Plant Removal: Clear out unhealthy, overgrown, or poorly placed shrubs
- Debris Disposal: Bag and haul away old mulch, plants, edging, and steel
- Steel Edging Removal: Take out rusted or warped materials to prepare for modern bed lines
- Transplanting: Salvage and reposition valuable plants for better growth
“The first thing we are doing today is old plant removal to help prepare for the transplanting and new plants.”
Why We Remove Before We Rebuild
| Task | Purpose | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Remove old plants | Eliminate clutter, clear the space | Opens up space for clean design |
| Remove steel edging | Outdated or rusting materials | Replaced with fresh modern lines |
| Debris disposal | Clean beds and work zones | Safe, tidy areas to build from |
Smart Bed Prep and Drainage Upgrades
Once the old is out, it’s time to set the new foundation.
This includes properly grading and prepping beds, enhancing drainage, and improving both function and appearance with gravel-based solutions.
Services performed in this phase:
- Bed Prep: Reshape beds for symmetry and proper water runoff
- Gravel Installation Over Weed Barrier:
Revel River gravel behind the garage
Rainbow River gravel along the side of the house - New Edging Installation: Replace outdated steel with stronger, modern edging
- Downspout Correction: Redirect runoff for better drainage away from beds
These upgrades protect the landscape while enhancing its design — ensuring water doesn’t pool in beds or around foundations.
Functional Features That Elevate the Landscape
| Feature | Installation Detail | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Gravel over weed barrier | Prevents weed growth & improves drainage | Clean, weed-free, low-maintenance |
| Bed edging replacement | Defined, modern borders | Keeps mulch & soil neatly contained |
| Downspout redirection | Runoff managed safely | Prevents erosion & flooding |
Planting, Sod Repair & Mulch for the Final Finish
With infrastructure in place, we move into the creative phase: planting and beautifying the yard.
This includes:
- Planting as per plan: Following a landscape design tailored for the homeowner’s needs
- Sod Repair: Replacing worn-out or patchy grass to tie the new beds into the existing yard
- Mulch Application: Installing fresh mulch to finish off beds, conserve moisture, and suppress weeds
- Final Cleanup: Ensuring all debris is removed, edges are crisp, and the property is picture-perfect
These final steps may seem small, but they’re what give the project its polish — and help the yard maintain its beauty over time.
What Goes Into the Final Planting Phase
| Element | Reason for Inclusion | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| New plant install | Color, texture, and height variation | Balanced, visually appealing beds |
| Sod repair | Patch bare or stressed areas | Seamless, lush green lawn |
| Mulch install | Protects soil and plant roots | Cleaner appearance & better health |
Why We Think This Is Important
A landscape isn’t just something you see — it’s something that works.
This project is the perfect example of how good design, proper prep, and detailed execution come together to create something lasting.
We didn’t just throw in a few plants and call it done.
We removed the clutter, protected the structure, addressed drainage, installed weed control, rebuilt the beds, repaired sod, added modern edging, and finished it off with thoughtful planting and mulch.
Every step was intentional.
Because when done right, a landscape becomes more than curb appeal — it becomes a functional, sustainable, beautiful part of your home.
FAQs
What’s the benefit of removing old steel edging?
Steel edging often rusts or warps over time. Replacing it improves both safety and appearance and allows for more flexible, modern bed shapes.
Why use gravel over a weed barrier?
Gravel prevents erosion, allows for better water runoff, and paired with a weed barrier, keeps your landscape low-maintenance and weed-free.
What kind of mulch do you install?
We offer hardwood, cedar, and specialty mulches based on the bed’s exposure and the plants installed. It helps conserve moisture and polish the look.
Can I reuse my old plants?
Yes! We often transplant healthy existing plants into better locations within your new design — saving you money and maintaining plant maturity.
How long does a full renovation take?
Most full-yard renovations like this take between 5 to 7 workdays depending on the size of the yard and weather conditions.
