formecology-v1

Understanding What Drives the Cost of a Landscape Project

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:19:53 GMT

What Drives the Cost of a Landscape Project?

No two landscape projects are the same, which is why pricing can vary so much from one property to another. Understanding what affects cost helps homeowners make better decisions and prioritize where to invest.

1. Site Conditions

Your existing property plays a big role in cost. Slopes, drainage issues, heavy soils, limited access for equipment, or grading needs can all add labor and time.

2. Design Complexity (Design + Build Integration)

A simple patio and planting plan will cost far less than a multi-level outdoor living space with built-in lighting, seating walls, water features, and custom details. In a design/build approach, complexity goes beyond the layout—it also includes how each part is built, scheduled, and put together on-site.

Projects with multiple materials, level changes, and built features require more coordination between planning and installation, as well as more skilled work to bring everything together.

3. Materials Selected

Materials do affect cost—natural stone, premium pavers, hardwoods, and custom features are typically more expensive than basic options. However, materials are only one part of the total picture.

Why “Just Swapping Materials” Isn’t Always Simple

One common misunderstanding is the idea that you can easily lower cost by swapping materials.

While that sounds simple, labor, jobsite logistics, and installation challenges often have a bigger impact on price than materials alone.

For example, something as "simple as" replacing mulch with cobblestone may still involve:

Prep work and grading
Removal and disposal of existing materials
Tight access that requires hand work
Multiple crew members over several days
Equipment limits or hauling materials by wheelbarrow

In many cases, the time and skilled work needed stay very similar, even if the material changes.

4. Project Size

Larger projects naturally require more materials, labor, and time, which increases overall cost.

5. Custom Features

Custom-built elements like outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, pergolas, or built-in seating require more planning and skilled installation, which adds to the investment.

6. Access and Logistics

Not all job sites are easy to work on. Limited access may require smaller equipment, extra labor, or moving materials by hand, all of which affect time and cost.

Why Process Matters as Much as Materials

At formecology LLC, we use a combined design and build process. This means we think through how everything will be built, scheduled, and installed—not just how it looks on paper.

This includes:

Crew size and coordination
Equipment access and site logistics
Drainage and structural work
Order of installation

These details aren’t always visible, but they play a major role in both cost and long-term success.

Not All Landscape Projects Are the Same

Some companies focus on basic installation or simple upgrades, while others specialize in more detailed, custom outdoor spaces built through a full design/build process.

At formecology LLC, our focus is on well-planned, well-built outdoor environments that feel like a natural extension of your home. That level of planning and craftsmanship takes more investment—but it also leads to a smoother process and better long-term results.

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A well-planned design/build process helps avoid surprises, reduces costly changes, and ensures your investment is used wisely. It’s not just about building a beautiful space—it’s about building it the right way from the start.

If you’re considering a project, we’re happy to talk through what’s possible for your space.

How Much Should You Budget for a Landscape Project?

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 20:16:55 GMT

How Much Should You Budget for a Landscape Project?

One of the first questions homeowners ask when considering a landscape project is: “How much is this going to cost?” The answer depends less on a fixed number and more on the size of the project, site conditions, materials, and how detailed the design is. Having a general range can still help you plan realistically and avoid surprises.

For most professionally designed residential landscape projects, budgets typically fall into three broad ranges:

Entry-Level Enhancements ($10,000–$30,000)
These projects focus on specific improvements such as planting beds, mulch, edging, basic lighting, or small patios and walkways. They’re ideal for refreshing certain areas without a full-yard renovation.

Mid-Range Transformations ($30,000–$100,000)
This range often includes more complete projects—larger patios, planting plans, outdoor lighting systems, retaining walls, and grading or drainage improvements. These projects start to significantly change how the outdoor space looks and functions.

High-End Custom Outdoor Living Spaces ($100,000+)
At this level, landscapes are fully customized and often include multiple outdoor living areas, extensive hardscaping, built-in features, water elements, outdoor kitchens, and advanced lighting systems. These projects are tailored to the home and how you want to live outdoors.

These ranges are not fixed prices—they are planning guidelines. The final cost depends on your property, your goals, and how the project is designed and built.

Phased Projects: A Smart Way to Approach Larger Budgets

For homeowners who want to work toward a larger vision, projects can often be completed in phases:

Phase 1: Core outdoor living space (patio, grading, primary planting)
Phase 2: Additional features (walkways, walls, secondary beds)
Phase 3: Enhancements (extensive hardscaping, water features, expanded living areas)

This approach allows you to spread investment over time while maintaining a cohesive design.

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Every property is different, and so is every budget. The key is understanding what you want your outdoor space to do for you, then building a plan that brings that vision to life in a realistic way.

Spring Has Sprung: The Crew Is Back (and So Are the Weeds)

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 15:09:44 GMT

Kickoff to the 2026 spring project season

After a long Wisconsin winter, the snow has melted, the boots are back out, and the crew is officially back in action. Which means one thing: Spring has sprung… and so have the weeds.

The Crew Is Back

There’s something about the first week back on job sites that feels like hitting reset.

The tools are cleaned up, the trucks are rolling again, and the team is back to doing what they do best—bringing outdoor spaces back to life.

From early cleanups to full landscape projects, it’s officially go-time for the season.

What We’re Seeing Out There

Spring reveals everything winter was hiding:

Beds that need a fresh start
Lawns waking up unevenly
Shrubs that got a little too comfortable over winter
And weeds… enthusiastic as ever

The good news? This is exactly what we’re here for. A proper spring cleanup sets the tone for the entire growing season.

Spring Cleanup

Right now, our focus is on:

Clearing out winter debris
Cutting back perennials at the right time
Defining bed edges again
Fresh mulch installation
Getting properties back to a clean, healthy baseline

It’s not glamorous work—but it’s the foundation for everything that follows.

Why Spring Matters So Much

Think of spring cleanup like hitting “refresh” on your landscape. If you start the season clean and healthy:

Plants grow stronger
Beds stay easier to maintain
Everything just looks better, longer

Without maintanence, natural growth will quickly take over.

Let’s Make It a Good Season

We’re excited for another year of projects, transformations, and a whole lot of time spent outside doing what we love.

Here’s to fresh starts, green spaces, and a season where the weeds don’t win (at least not without a fight).

Why Native Plants Are the Best Choice for Wisconsin Landscapes

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 13:22:32 GMT

Create a Beautiful Landscape That Works With Nature, Not Against It

Spring is the perfect time to rethink what’s growing in your landscape, and native plants are one of the smartest choices for Wisconsin homeowners. Because they’ve naturally adapted to our region’s climate, soil, and seasonal changes, native plants require significantly less water, fertilizer, and overall maintenance compared to non-native species. That means less work for you—and a more resilient landscape that thrives through Wisconsin’s unpredictable weather, from heavy spring rains to dry summer stretches.

Beyond their durability, native plants play a critical role in supporting local ecosystems. They provide essential food and habitat for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and birds, helping restore balance to our environment right in your own backyard. Incorporating native varieties into your landscape doesn’t mean sacrificing beauty, either—many offer vibrant colors, unique textures, and multi-season interest. With thoughtful design, native plantings can create a landscape that is both environmentally responsible and visually stunning.

If you’re considering adding native plants to your landscape this spring, thoughtful planning makes all the difference. From selecting the right species to designing a layout that complements your home and existing landscape, our team can help you create a space that’s both low-maintenance and built to thrive. Whether you’re starting fresh or enhancing your current landscape, we’re here to help bring a sustainable vision to life.

Big Win for formecology at the NARI CotY Awards Event!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:38 GMT

formecology, LLC proudly accepts three awards at the “CotY” (Contractor of the Year) “Celebrating Excellence” ceremony on November 9th!

The event was hosted by NARI of Madison (National Association of the Remodeling Industry). NARI is an organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. Its members are committed to integrity, high standards, professional education, ethics and market recognition.

The CotY is a prestigious award presented each year to NARI members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. Winning projects must meet score requirements under the following criteria:

To what degree were the expressed needs of the client met?
To what degree does the project enhance the existing structures functionally?
To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically?
Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship?
Were innovative uses of material and/or methods of construction used in the project?

formecology, LLC entered this landscape renovation project in the “Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living $70,000 to $100, 000 category and was awarded the CotY award for their fourth consecutive year!

formecology, LLC was also awarded for their 10 year membership in the NARI of Madison organization and last, but certainly not least, John Gishnock III proudly took home the “Leadership Award” – what an amazing accomplishment for formecology’s staff and crew to be recognized for these achievements!

“The first thing that came to mind was “oh what a night!” Then the reality of standing up at a microphone in front of Dane county’s finest remodelers, subcontractors and suppliers was overwhelming. Receiving the award was surprising and one of the most awesome things ever �� And while on stage it was important to not forget to give thanks to everyone and acknowledge the formecology team and all that they do to make my job and ability to volunteer time to NARI easier.

The event was filled with amazing work. The nominated projects in total represented over $9m in construction work for Dane County.

We look forward to nominating projects next year, bringing more of our company to the event, and having a little bigger party on stage when we win”, says John Gishnock III.

NARI of Madison Members Give Back to Local Skilled Nursing Facility

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:35 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Kim DiMaggio

Executive Director

Kim@NARIMadison.org

609-222-0670

NARI of Madison Members Give Back to Local Skilled Nursing Facility

Evansville, WI, July 2023 – NARI of Madison, Inc. (Fitchburg, WI) and its members are proud to give back to a local skilled nursing facility, Evansville Manor (Evansville, WI). NARI of Madison and its team of volunteers are doing this good deed on Saturday, July 22 ^nd . Our members are not only volunteering their time, but are also donating all supplies needed to do the repairs including landscaping, painting, driveway patching, etc.

Our group of remodelers, contractors, and home fixer uppers care about our community and the NARI of Madison chapter likes to think beyond Dane County and support members who reside outside, but work within the Dane County market. Project lead, John Gishnock III of landscape company, formecology, LLC (Evansville, WI), had this to say: “Belonging to such a great organization & group of dedicated people is inspiring to me and us as a company. And as a current board member I couldn’t be prouder of this effort. Our 10 years with NARI have connected us to the best and we love how it’s brushed off on us!”.

NARI of Madison is a local trades association dedicated to the remodeling industry with approximately 240 member companies. Our members are dedicated, reliable, honest, professional and ethical. Our tagline is Remodeling Done Right.

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About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the only trade association dedicated solely to the remodeling industry. The association, which represents more than 4000 member companies nationwide- is “The Voice of the Remodeling Industry.” ™ To locate a remodeling professional, visit NARI Madison’s website at www.NARIMadison.org.

Evolution of a Drawing From Our Licensed Landscape Architect

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:32 GMT

Evolution of a drawing- Here are images from our sketch process from rough to refined. We started with our plan view drawing to come up with an attractive refined perspective to help communicate the idea and project! When drawing, start fast, be loose and get tighter as you go. It’s a layered process so trace paper is perfect. The next step is having our knowledgeable and experienced installation crew bring it from paper to reality!

Learn more about our Landscape Architect John Gishnock III here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngishnockiii/

Formecology, LLC is a Finalist in the “Best of Madison 2022”!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:29 GMT

Formecology, LLC is a Finalist in the Madison Magazine’s “Best of Madison 2022”!

[Evansville, WI (April, 2022)] – Formecology, LLC is nominated as a Finalist in the Top Six in the “Best of Madison” Landscape Category, qualifying them for the final round of voting. Best of Madison recognizes the top businesses, people, and destinations in Madison and surrounding areas.

“This is very exciting news for us! Our entire team has been working tirelessly and we are happy to be recognized for our efforts by our employees, fans, friends, and clients. Being selected as a finalist for the “Best of Madison” award really is a testament to our hard work over the past two decades. And maybe more importantly it shows a continued growth in interest and passion for more sustainable, environmentally friendly landscape solutions”, says John Gishnock III, owner and landscape architect.

“We’re one of the best, but definitely not the biggest!”. Gishnock highlights the benefits of working with this small, family-owned business:

“We offer strong client/staff relationships through great communication with our clients. They also have access to formecology’s top landscape architect and projects managers on a daily basis. Our clients are not just another sale. We are tied to our clients throughout the entire process; we follow through with high craft, industry leading warranties, and trained professionals to ensure their expectations are met (and consistently). Serving our clients and the environment is our priority”, says Gishnock.

To place your vote for Formecology, LLC, visit: https://www.channel3000.com/best-of-madison-2022/#//. Look for the “Lawn, Garden & Landscape” category under the “Home & Lifestyle” heading. Voting is allowed once per person from April 1-30.

Formecology, LLC Attains Green Professional Status

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:20 GMT

Formecology, LLC Attains Green Professional Status for their 8th Consecutive Year

[Evansville, Wis. (October, 2021)] – The Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council has named Formecology, LLC a Green Professional within its Green Masters Program for their 8th consecutive year. Recognizing sustainable actions by businesses from across the state of Wisconsin, the Green Masters program works to identify companies that have taken actions within nine sustainability pillars. Participants in the program receive recognition for their sustainability accomplishments and develop ideas to plan future sustainability actions.“This program helps us to think holistically about our company’s environmental impacts. We can celebrate what we have accomplished, better understand where we have room to improve, and help plan for a more sustainable future,” said John Gishnock III.

Formecology, LLC’s sustainability progress includes several actions, such as purchasing renewable energy credits and focusing on energy efficiency in their facilities and equipment. The company also manages a large native prairie planting at the Formecology facility to enhance habitat diversity and utilizes a large rain garden to capture rooftop rainwater and infiltrate it onsite. They’ve also incorporated low-maintenance lawn grass into their landscape to reduce mowing, while constructing hardscape features with recycled concrete. Along with all of this onsite activity, Formecology, LLC also works closely with clients to enhance sustainability of their landscapes.

“The Green Masters Program is a tool for businesses to assess and grow their sustainability actions, to benchmark against others in their industry, and to receive a third party credential recognizing their sustainability achievements,” says WSBC’s managing director, Jessy Servi Ortiz.

To learn more about the program, visit https://www.wisconsinsustainability.com/greenmasters

About Formecology, LLC

Formecology, LLC is a landscape design, build and care firm unlike your typical garden variety. They specialize in natural, eco-friendly sustainable landscaping for residential, small commercial and public spaces. Serving the Madison, Wisconsin, area and beyond, Formecology has been providing artful craft with exceptional warranties installed by experienced staff for over 20 years. Visit their website at: www.formecology.com

About WSBC

The Wisconsin Sustainable Business Council’s (WSBC) mission is to advance sustainable principles and practices forward through the power of business. They support companies and sustainability professionals through an array of programming, education, resources, and tools and are a catalyst for businesses looking to integrate sustainability into the fabric of their organization and be a force for good. We are a member organization that supports companies with the integration of sustainability into operations and strategy at a time when the business case for sustainability has never been stronger. Learn more at www.wisconsinsustainability.com

Formecology, LLC named NARI Regional Team CotY Winner!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:20 GMT

Formecology, LLC named NARI Regional Team CotY Winner!

February 1st, 2021—The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) named Formecology, LLC (team member) and Artisan Deck and Design, LLC 2021 North Central Regional Contractor of the Year (CotY) winners in the Residential Exterior $50,000-$100,000 category in its’ annual awards competition.

“We were so grateful to win three CotY Awards with the NARI Madison Chapter in November of 2020, but to also win the Regional CotY Award is beyond amazing! We are proud to win this award as a team member with Artisan Deck and Design, LLC, another great NARI member and Madison contractor”, says Gishnock, landscape architect and Formecology’s owner.

Each year, NARI presents CotY Awards to members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects. The CotY Awards are the highest form of recognition by industry leaders and peers. NARI received nearly 435 entries from across the United States representing over $128 million in remodeling projects.

“This year’s submissions were outstanding, making the job of our esteemed judges very difficult,” said Tracy Wright, Senior Director of Membership and Chapter Services at NARI. The judging panel representing industry experts, selected winners based on problem solving, functionality, aesthetics, craftsmanship, innovation, and degree of difficulty.

The CotY Awards allow us to celebrate our members who are committed to design, best practices, integrity, high standards, and professionalism. NARI will honor all Regional Winners and announce the National Winners April 30, 2021 in a virtual presentation. Visit nari.org for more information.

About NARI

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) provides residential remodelers with tools that enable them to perform at a higher level because of the knowledge, network and support that they receive. In addition, NARI connects homeowners with its members so consumers have a positive remodeling experience with a professional, qualified remodeler.

Formecology, LLC Wins “Contractor of the Year” Awards!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:14 GMT

Formecology, LLC won three “CotY” (Contractor of the Year) awards at the “Celebrating Excellence” virtual award ceremony on November 5th!

The event was hosted by NARI of Madison (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) of which Formecology, LLC has been a member of for seven years. NARI is an organization of high-quality remodeling professionals. Its members are committed to integrity, high standards, professional education, ethics and market recognition.

The CotY is a prestigious award presented each year to NARI members who have demonstrated outstanding work through their remodeling projects.

As first year entrants, Formecology, LLC won a CotY Award on all three of their entries. The CotY is awarded to projects that meet score requirements under the following criteria:

To what degree were the expressed needs of the client met?
To what degree does the project enhance the existing structures functionally?
To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically?
Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship?
Were innovative uses of material and/or methods of construction used in the project?

Formecology, LLC entered a joint project with Artisan Deck and Design, LLC in the category of “Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living under $100,000”. This project consisted of a new entryway trellis and natural stone walkway. Both contractors in this winning project will receive a CotY award.

Formecology, LLC’s second winning entry was a beautifully constructed “eco-driveway” in the “Residential Landscape Design/Outdoor Living $40,001 to $60,000” category. The driveway was built to help manage and redirect stormwater (and to help keep it from contaminating our lakes and rivers) but can also function as a patio/entertainment space.

The third entry and CotY Award winning project was Evansville’s very own “ The Grove Market ” in the “Commercial Exterior” category. Local owners of this farm-to-table bistro hired Formecology, LLC to design and install a safe, ADA-accessible, low-maintenance, inviting outdoor space that tied well into their regionally based, historic building.

“We are so grateful for the vision and hard work by Formecology in transforming an unusable space into a beautiful, welcoming setting. The greenspace gives our guests a wonderful first impression of The Grove Market. Our customers always compliment the park-like ambience and design. In addition to the beauty of the space, during the warmer months this year we were particularly thankful for the functionality of the outdoor dining space” says Jenny Wiedel, The Grove Market owner.

Formecology, LLC’s owner, John Gishnock III, also won an “Achievement Award” for his involvement on the NARI Membership Committee.

“Being a NARI board member and volunteer on the membership committee has been crazy rewarding – we’ve built some really great relationships with Madison’s premiere contractors and service providers!” says Gishnock.

The Organic Lawn Care Calendar

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:13 GMT

Achieve a naturally healthy, lower-maintenance, and chemical-free lawn that is better for you, your children, pets, and the environment. Here are some methods to help assist you throughout the year.

Spring

April –

• Sharpen mower blades (or over winter)
• Edge paths
• Overseed thin & bare lawn areas unless you are applying corn gluten
• When daffodils and forsythia bloom: Apply corn gluten (12 lbs/1000ft) for weed control and fertilizer (Ground temps 50-55? F)

May –

• Core aerate as needed
• Start mowing as needed. Always mow 3-4” high – leave clippings on lawn (if less than 2” length)
• Make 1st fertilizer application by Memorial Day

Summer

June –

• Dig, rake, or use borax on creeping Charlie
• Dig dandelions, burdock, thistles, and other perennial weeds

July/August –

• Grass growth slowing. Driest time. Consider letting grass go dormant by not watering
• 2nd corn gluten application (if crabgrass persists)

Winter

• Use sand instead of salt for ice
• Prune trees and shrubs to increase light and air circulation and keep woodies healthy

The Benefits of Building with Natural Stones vs Modular Block Stone

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:12 GMT

U sing natural stones is a niche for this sustainable landscape company. Not only do hardscapes that we build with natural stones provide beauty, safety and longevity, but they are also more eco-friendly.

Modular block stone on the other hand, while easier to build with and cheaper, is often unsustainable and not as visually interesting. Modular block stone is often made of concrete or classic brick. Traditional brick and mortar are especially susceptible to crumbling under pressure resulting in cracks and a changed wall structure. Natural elements such as flooding, freeze/thaw cycles, and sun exposure, degrade modular stone. The look of it is often dull and does not have much variation in texture at all.

Formecology offers above average industry warranties and our employees are thoroughly trained in natural stone hardscaping. Visit our natural stone hardscapes page for more information or visit our events page to see when owner and landscape architect, John Gishnock III, is giving his hardscapes presentation.

A New Natural Stone Walkway for Middleton, Wisconsin Clients

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:09 GMT

This natural stone walkway is dry laid, so no mortar, concrete, etc. That means it can move slightly with the change of seasons and not crack.
A deep and compact crushed gravel base means this wonderful walk won’t heave either.
The gaps between each stone piece are less than an inch (even less than 1/2”) so this is a very safe and easy walk to shovel.
The gaps have been filled in with a product that semi-permanently fills the gaps to limit weed growth.
The stone used in this walkway and stone are locally quarried. No manufacturing or chemicals were used in the product of this natural product.
Using local stones conveys a regional aesthetic that is very ‘Wisconsin’.
Building hardscapes correctly and building them to last is critical in sustainable landscaping – our natural stone features all have a 5 year warranty!
The beauty as can be seen in the photos, is really nothing short of artwork – that natural patterns, textures, and variations in color are stunning.

For questions about any of our hardscape projects or services please send an email

to: info@formecology.com or visit our hardscape service page.

Native Perennials and Erosion Control

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:09 GMT

Native perennials are not only aesthetically pleasing and beneficial to local flora and fauna, but also a great means of erosion control. Root systems of perennials are exponentially deeper than standard turf grass and persist for years. Roots can anchor down into the soil up to 15 feet, making them great soil stabilizers.

These roots are also able to capture phosphorus runoff before they can reach our ground water supply. As we know, phosphorus run-off from agricultural production is a culprit in producing blue-green algae blooms in our Wisconsin lakes and rivers. Also with great big roots, perennials can out-compete weeds or harmful invasive species, reducing the need for toxic herbicide application. Additionally, these roots establish channels throughout the soil, providing aeration, water, and nutrient flow for neighboring plants.

Perennials provide moisture to soil, making the soil less prone to drying out and erosion. Deep roots can reach nutrients that are not found in top soil. Perennials bring these out-of-reach nutrients to other plants which can benefit. These long root systems take in all the nutrients perennials need, requiring less work from the gardener.

Formecology just recently completed a shoreline project at Frank Lloyd Wright’s John Pew House residence in which we installed erosion control measures on a hillside facing Lake Mendota. We blanketed the hillside with Envirolok, LLC native vegetative mats. The beauty of these perennial mats is that they provide an instant plant matrix to make the hillside stronger against erosion over time as the roots grow. We are very excited to see the hillside grow and bloom in years to come.

Contact Formecology if you have an eroding slope that can benefit from deep rooted plants and consider what perennials can do for you!

Jumping Worms & How They Affect Soil & Plant Health

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:05 GMT

Working on a variety of sites we have seen the growing presence of jumping worms. Often our team will see crumbly, granular, loose soil—a sure sign of their invasion. You may have heard their name mentioned, “Asian jumping worms”, “crazy worms”, or “snake worms”, in horticultural contexts. Normally earthworms are beneficial to soil and plant health, however, these invasive species are destructive with a multitude of effective survival tactics. They first appeared in Wisconsin in 2013, and still there is much uncertainty regarding how they are to be eradicated. There are a few treatments available on the market that we at Formecology may try out for our clients. Before then, we will have to do some test runs. With awareness, background knowledge of their life history and appearance, and management, we can ensure a healthier ecosystem. There is a lot to consider here and research to be done in the coming years. We would love to hear your experiences (successful or not) in dealing with these crazy worms. Leave us a comment below!

Appearance: “dry” appearance with bluish sheen. White clitellum (band in which the eggs are produced) and a length of 6-8 inches. Worms famously exhibit a fast “flailing” motion. This rapid thrashing helps escape predators with a 50% chance of survival. Presence often marked by pelleted soil clumps on soil surface.

How They Spread: commercial compost and mulch, nursery stock, leaf piles, fish bait, raking, leaf blowing.

Problem: Jumping worms wreak havoc to soil and plant health. They grow and reproduce more rapidly and consume more nutrients than any other earthworm in Wisconsin. Additionally, their eggs are protected by a cold and drought resistant cocoon that can withstand -40 degrees Fahrenheit! These cocoons are about the size of a mustard seed and are dark brown in color—easily hidden amongst soil.

Jumping worms are parthenogenic, meaning they do not require a mate to reproduce. Worms typically produce up to 60 cocoons per clutch and can complete 2 generations within one year. These worms move fast too, expanding their territory up to 40 yards a year.

These worms feed on plant roots, and beneficial mycorrhizae fungi, and disturb healthy soil. Soil affected by jumping worms has decreased moisture, compacted soil, increased erosion, and an increased risk of pathogens. This soil proves to be poor in structure and support for plants. In turn, this soil harbors a poor quality environment for native plants to grow and gives invasive plant species a chance to establish themselves. In a jumping worm-invaded habitat canopy cover may be thinned out as well as ground cover. The lack of vegetation exposes ground dwelling critters to potential predators resulting in reduced biodiversity of animals.

Another issue presented by the worms is their 80% bio-accumulation of airborne heavy metals. Animals consumed by humans, such as chickens, eat these worms, and the heavy metals are passed down to humans causing potential health issues.

Where: Dwell on soil surface, no deeper than 2-4 inches below the soil.

Life Cycle:

APR-MAY: worms hatch from egg/cocoon

JUN-JUL: worms feed & grow ßthis is the best time to conduct an initial treatment

AUG-SEP: worms lay eggs ß best time to conduct 2 ^nd treatment

1 ^ST FREEZE: adult worms die

WINTER: eggs are protected in cocoons

Management:

Prevention: Buy landscape materials (plants, compost, mulch) free of cocoons and worms. Purchase mulch and compost that has been heated to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Cocoons cannot survive beyond 104 degrees as well as pathogens. The Flower Factory nursery (located in Stoughton) has a 100% jumping worm-free guarantee as they sterilize their soil.

If spotted: remove and destroy worms by sealing in a bag and throwing away. Apply treatment.

Treatments:

Early Bird: Advertised as a 3-0-1 fertilizer that was originally developed for golf course turf. Contains chicken droppings, kelp, and tea seed oil. The solution is potent and is to be diluted 20x before application. It is not recommended to spray an entire soil patch affected by worms, rather apply to new plants being introduced to the garden. If you do end up treating a large portion of soil, ensure the solution does not go further than 6 inches below, as that is where beneficial earthworms dwell. Within 10 minutes of application worms come to the soil surface. Within 20 minutes the worms are dead. Something to consider is that Early Bird lake run-off could harm fish.
Finely-ground Biochar: Just a small amount added to infested soil can kill worms in 16 days. The sharp edges of the charcoal are designed to cut the guts of the worms. A question that popped into our heads: is biochar selective for crazy worms, or does it harm beneficial worms as well?
Fungus: Bavaria bassiana (BotaniGard): Secretes enzymes that weaken bugs’ coats. Effectively kills worms in two weeks and kills approximately a ¼ of cocoons. We wonder if this fungus would be harmful to beneficial insects, like our pollinators.

While it is too late in the season for treatment application, Formecology is keeping its eyes out for new, eco-friendly, safe solutions. Stay tuned!

Sources:
https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/invasives/fact/jumpingworm/index.html

https://hardyplantclubvt.blogspot.com/p/blog-page_19.html

Landscape Design for a Back Yard Renovation

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:05 GMT

his landscape design has been developed to help with a back yard renovation of a homesite on Madison’s bustling east side. Please note the following features of this site, budget, and client specific landscape plan:

Existing vegetation deemed healthy and non-invasive was saved and integrated into the design.
We added a rain garden to help capture at least ¼ of the roofs runoff – that’s a sizable amount given the extent of roof (and proximity to the Madison lakes).
Since we’ll be using tracked equipment in the back yard we are changing out the traditional Kentucky bluegrass lawn with the no-mow fescue lawngrass. This grass needs mowed once or twice a year, but otherwise it’s fine textured, elegant, lays on itself and helps keeps weeds out (once established). Oh and it needs less water!
There is a focus on showy native pollinator plants to use in the designed enhancement perennial zones.
We utilized a flowering native tree (serviceberry) in the back corner to provide depth, focal interest, and to screen the adjacent utility pole.
Decorative fence panels (likely make of cedar) are proposed to help enclose the back yard a bit and screen some unsightly views.
New native shrubs help fill some of the excessive perennial bed space as well as aim to help provide some enclosure and definition.
Well placed stepping stones provide access to the gardens for maintenance as well as visually they provide depth, interest, and also help permanently fill bed space without maintenance.
Remember a solid plan on the front end helps develop a phasing plan (to install) and also helps provide a budget at the outset to work with.

Eco-Friendly Snow Removal Tips

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:07:04 GMT

What are Native Plants?

Here are some eco-friendly (sustainable) snow removal tips to help get you through the winter snow while keeping the environment in mind:

Human-powered removal is the only 100% eco-friendly way to get rid of snow. There are no downsides for the environment, your family or your lawn when using a shovel for snow removal. Be sure to take breaks while shoveling, stay hydrated and lift snow with your legs, not your back.
Snow day from school? Get your children outdoors and active with a shovel too! It gets them exercise and fresh air while giving you some help.

Snow blowers emit a ton of carbon emissions that pollute the air. If you choose to use a snow blower, help to limit the emissions by using an electric- or battery-powered snow blower instead of gas powered.

Get the snow cleared early in the day and let the sun warm the surface. Shovel before the snow reaches more than 3″ as it’s easier to shovel less snow three times a day than it is to shovel 9″ of snow once.
Try putting down an abrasive material like sand to help get some traction. It will not melt ice but it will help make the surface non-slippery. Sand should be used sparingly since it can clog local storm drains. Wearing boots with good traction soles is also beneficial.
Kitty litter is also effective in providing traction, but again, use sparingly as they can adversely affect vegetation and get into waterways.
De-icers , such as rock salt, contains chlorides or acetates that can kill your grass and plants, damage driveways and sidewalks, and can pollute nearby waterways. When pets walk on the salt, their paws can dry out and crack too, and it’s also corrosive to cars. Use de-icers as sparingly as possible when treating icy walkways or look for eco-friendly de-icing products.

Native Plants in the Landscape

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:59 GMT

What are Native Plants?

A native plant, also called indigenous, is a plant that has naturally evolved in a particular region without human intervention.

What are some benefits of Native Plants?

Because of their inherent benefits, Formecology, LLC recommends incorporating native plants in to your landscape design.

Adaptability – Native plants have thrived in the Midwest region for thousands of years, so they are accustomed to growing and surviving even in extreme weather.
Low maintenance – Native plants only need minimal attention as they do not require supplemental water, fertilizer, pesticide treatment or excessive care.
Drought resistance – Due to their long roots, which sometimes span over 15 feet, native plants collect and store rainwater far better than non-native plants or turf grass species. This feature also helps control water run-off and erosion.
Beauty – Native plants provide an interesting backdrop to your landscape and give it aesthetic appeal. Native plants create a beautiful landscape due to their range of sizes, heights, textures and seasonal colors. They can be arranged in a formal (a clean, organized look) or informal (a random, unpredictable look) setting. Various species are available to accommodate both sunny and shady areas too. Find our plant lists here: https://formecology.com/resources/
Time and cost efficiency – Native landscaping is more time and cost effective than traditional non-native landscaping, requiring far less upkeep, mowing, watering, weeding and replacement, especially when looking out over several years.
Biodiversity and wildlife attraction – The many different species of native plants, each blooming at different periods during the growing season, create a range of food sources and habitats for wildlife. This encourages different species of birds and insects to take shelter in the foliage and make your landscape their home.
Pollution control – Native plants require carbon to grow; therefore, they remove a significant amount of air pollution. Likewise, because there is no need to mow or trim native plants, you don’t generate pollution with gas-powered lawnmowers and other lawn care equipment.

Safety Tips for Children Mowing Lawns

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:58 GMT

Mowing lawns can be a positive coming-of-age experience for teens, as well as a great opportunity to learn responsibility and earn extra income. Keep these tips in mind to feel comfortable that your child will be safe every time they mow.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says that children should be at least 12 years old before they operate any lawn mower, and at least 16 years old for a ride-on mower.
Read the manual. You may have never read it, but your child should. Knowing how your lawn mower works, and understanding all the parts and pieces, can help keep the user safe.
Wear closed-toe shoes. Protective eye and ear wear is important too. Make sure they are wearing bug spray and sunscreen. A floppy/straw hat will protect the ears and neck from sunburn.
Walk the area to be mowed and remove any objects that could be dangerous (sticks, rocks, toys, etc.).
Make sure that protective guards, shields, the grass catcher, and other types of safety equipment on the mower are in good working order.
Only mow dry grass, and only when there is enough daylight to see clearly.
Do not let your lawn grow too tall. Tall grass can hide objects, holes or bumps.
Always add fuel before starting the engine, not when it’s running or hot.
When a walk-behind mower is used, mow across the face of slopes, not up and down, to avoid slipping under the mower and into the blades. With a riding mower, mow up and down slopes, not across, to avoid tipping over.
Stop the engine and wait for the blades to stop completely before crossing gravel paths or roads, walking away from the mower, or inspecting or maintaining the mower.
Keep younger children and pets inside so they are out of the way of the mower.
When finished, park the mower and remove the key so that young children can’t accidently start it up.
Once you’re confident your teen can safely use the mower, you may want to watch them the first few times they try it on their own, and always make sure someone else is home when they’re mowing.

You can always consider eliminating some of your mowing area by implementing no-mow turf or a native prairie.

When they’re ready, help your teen come up with a plan for how to promote and run their lawn care business and foster their entrepreneurial spirit!

Our Approach to Wet Basements and Stormwater Management

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:55 GMT

With each heavy rain, our office receives a lot of ‘wet basement’ phone calls. Here are a few pointers to help assist in finding the problem and knowing potential solutions for stormwater management before calling the professionals with our ‘top/down, outside/in’ approach!

What to look for from the ‘top/down, outside/in’:

Poor or damaged roofing materials
Gutters and downspouts aren’t working properly, are misplaced, undersized, or clogged
Lawn/shrub irrigation system discharging too much water next to the house
Poor site grading – The landscape is unable to deal with onsite/offsite stormwater
Leaky basement windows and clogged window wells
Hydrostatic pressure – Caused by the water table rising under a foundation, groundwater in water-saturated soils is then pushed into the basement.
Your neighbor’s water and how it rolls off their property can also be your issue
Foundation cracks, holes, and other entry points
Improperly functioning sump pump

Why does my basement get wet at certain times and not every year?

Mother Nature & our changing climate – Large, infrequent storms, unusual weather patterns, high winds & rain

Development impacts – Increasing impervious (impermeable, water-resistant) surfaces within your watershed (I.E. a new house/addition, garage, shed, & even landscaping can have negative impacts)

Poor &/or the settling of soils or other hard surfaces – this can change water flow direction toward the house over time

Circumstance issues – A recent natural occurrence that can impede proper drainage (I. E. animal burrow or den in drain or pipe, fallen tree branch, neighbors plugged downspout, damage from tree roots, etc).

Structural improvements (Exterior)

Site improvements – Two approaches

1) Keep water away from structures

Utilize the landscape and soils to convey (move), store and filter stormwater (landscape/soil solutions).

Regrading/redirecting water – Shaping around the structure by raising or lowering the grade

Drainage systems & conveying water – Moving away from the structure (above ground and underground)

Rainwater infiltration – Managing away from the structure

Rain gardens (yard and terrace) and native plants
Infiltration trenches – Long, relatively shallow excavated areas, lined with filter fabric, then filled with rock
Consider subgrade/subsoils and water table

Rainwater harvesting – rain barrels

2) Make changes to impervious surfaces – Reduce, Resurface, & Reslope

driveways make up the largest percentage of impervious surfacing on a site!)

Reduce – Ecodriveways
Resurface Porous/permeablepaving, etc.
Reslope – Draining impervious surfaces into a rain garden or redirecting drainpipes away from driveways can help.

How to Hire a Professional

When selecting a landscape contractor, you should find one that has experience and a good track record with water issues.
They should pitch an integrated top/down & outside/in approach.
The contractor should work well with other contractors (I.E. basement waterproofer, remodeler, etc.) and only use other reputable contractors.
Contractors should warranty their work, have good references, and provide you with an understating of how to maintain your water solutions.

Want to learn more? Email your questions/issues to: info@formecology.com or check out the ‘ Events ’ page for our upcoming ‘Landscape Your Way to a Dry Basement’ presentations.

Formecology, LLC is Proud to be a Part of the TRIS (Theodore Robinson Intermediate School) Courtyard Design!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:55 GMT

In continued efforts to be a proud supporter of the local community (and our students!), Formecology, LLC was excited to work with some of the Evansville School District teachers, staff, and committee members on a landscape master plan for their courtyard space at TRIS.

Formecology, LLC was told by ESD staff that many efforts went into this outdoor space over the years, but given the sheer size of the space, it became too hard to maintain regularly by one or two willing volunteers. With help from the students, the courtyard space is now almost cleared down to a clean slate and ready for a new use. Moving forward, it has been requested that the space be designed in a way that is clean and open with perhaps a few well-thought seating spaces and flower beds for lively color and wildlife attraction, while keeping it easy to maintain for the staff and students to enjoy more frequently. “We see out there every day and want it to be pleasing to look at”, says Sandy Papendieck, TRIS teacher.

Formecology, LLC’s landscape Architect, John Gishnock III, accompanied by Melissa Gishnock, project manager, met with ESD staff last week to present the design. Steve Shulta, Building and Grounds Director stated, “I’d like to see a cooperative effort, where we might utilize Formecology, LLC, our own limited resources, plus more student and staff labor to execute this design. I’m looking forward to discussing this in greater detail and very pleased that we’ll actually have a plan to work from, because I think that’s what’s been missing for this space”.

While keeping low maintenance and easy to maintain in mind for the staff, the design also targeted the safety and well-being of our children. “We wanted to design something that was safe, equitable, ADA accessible, natural & sustainable, educational, and mindful of our children”, said John Gishnock III. A few key highlights of the design include ADA accessible ramps proposed for all four courtyard access points, and concrete pathways added for ease of maintenance and of course wheelchair accessibility. Low-maintenance native perennial beds will provide beauty and color while attracting wildlife like butterflies, songbirds, and other pollinators. Concrete ‘study areas’ surrounded by low-maintenance grass covered seating mounds provide a fun place for outdoor teaching and learning. Large seating stones surround a small shade tree in the central gathering area and can act as a larger gathering space for bigger events or multi-class activities.

“The District will be looking to implement this landscape plan over time, pending the availability of funds and balanced against other facility needs,” states Superintendent Jerry Roth. Formecology, LLC looks forward to being a part of the implementation of the space as slow or as fast as the school district determines best.

Ecodriveways – Good for You and the Environment

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:54 GMT

Have you ever thought about what happens to all that water when it rains? We all know that water runs downhill, but there are some other interesting consequences that aren’t so obvious. Because we have built homes, roads, sidewalks, parking lots and many other “impervious” surfaces that don’t allow stormwater to soak into the ground, there is often much more water than the limited areas can soak up (infiltrate). We are simply pushing more and more water downstream. Now, this may not seem like a large issue when we only consider an individual site, but when taken cumulatively we can see that urban and residential areas often have more impervious surface than pervious surface. Even farm fields often have drain tile to rapidly remove “excess” water downstream.

Now let’s think again about what happens in a heavy rain. Excessive or poorly managed stormwater has many negative effects on our environment. Here’s how the damage shows up:

When stormwater flows across compacted lawn surfaces, it picks up excess fertilizer, loose soil, and pesticides and carries them into the street or ditch where more debris, auto chemicals and other pollutants are waiting for a free ride downstream.

This contaminated water races straight into engineered drainage systems, such as storm sewers, where more and more water combines from surrounding areas.
This rapidly flowing (and filthy) water is dumped into creeks and streams, where it causes erosion and picks up more soil and debris.

This water eventually causes flooding and degradation of lakes and other water bodies. Oftentimes after large storms, huge plumes of brown, contaminated water are readily visible in aerial photos of lakes. In fact, a large “dead zone” of nearly 6,000-8,000 square miles appears annually in the Gulf of Mexico, due to the large amounts of soil and debris carried into the Gulf by the Mississippi River.

To get a bit of perspective, it’s helpful to consider how stormwater acted in the past. Historically, when it rained, most of the water soaked into the ground at or near the place where it fell. Thick native vegetation would slow the water down and the highly organic soils would readily soak up stormwater. This stormwater was purified by slowly seeping through the soil and plant roots, and it eventually recharged the water table (the source of our drinking water).

No one can argue that hard surfaces like rooftops, roads and driveways aren’t incredibly important to humans, but we need to understand that because we aren’t allowing water to soak into the ground, we are causing more frequent flooding, and increased pollution, and preventing future drinking water supplies from forming. In fact, our existing drinking water wells are drying up and becoming more prone to contamination. We simply need to do a much better job of allowing water into the ground at the spot where it falls.

There are some options to help accomplish this goal. Eco-friendly sustainable approaches to stormwater management are becoming more popular, as more people begin to understand the importance of treating water as a resource rather than disposing of it as a waste product. Harvesting stormwater can result in economic benefits to communities by reducing reliance on municipal water supplies. Stormwater can easily be used for irrigation, ornamental water features, and groundwater recharge with a little forethought about how to capture it. Stormwater harvesting is often as simple as diverting rainwater that runs down a residential downspout into a rain barrel , where it can be stored for use in watering your plants.

Ecodriveways are another exciting part of the solution for the environmentally conscious home owner. Because driveways are often the largest impervious surface on a residential site, it is important to consider what happens to the water that falls on them. A well-planned ecodriveway is designed to meet all of the functional needs of the homeowner while at the same time capturing, treating, and infiltrating stormwater.

A special type of material known as pervious paving allows water to flow through its surface and into the ground. Options include pervious concrete, pervious asphalt, pavers with voids, and crushed gravel with no fines. These are great options to really maximize the amount of water that’s absorbed, but extra care must be used to design and install the gravel base below the paved surface to allow for infiltration.

When standard concrete or asphalt is the best choice for your driveway needs, there are still ways to make the project more ecofriendly. Minimizing surface area and thoughtfully managing water once it leaves the paved surface are important considerations.

Here are a few options for minimizing impervious surface:

Design a driveway for multiple purposes, thereby reducing the need to pave space elsewhere for a patio or work area. Consider using stamped or dyed concrete as a decorative element that differentiates the patio space from the rest of the driveway.
Paving only the actual driving area is another great idea to minimize impervious surface. Two strips of paving slightly wider than the tires of a car create a perfectly functional tread driveway that allows for turf or other pervious materials between. In addition to allowing more water to infiltrate, this option often saves money and creates a more visually interesting driveway area.

Directing stormwater from the driveway to water quality and management features like rain gardens is another great option. Rain gardens are designed as beautiful garden beds that are graded to allow water to pool temporarily and infiltrate into the ground. Beyond the beauty of the planted native wildflowers & grasses, these gardens draw in many species of songbirds and butterflies which add to their interest and ecological benefit. Driveways can be sloped toward these features or, in more complex settings, simple drains in the concrete can move stormwater to the features.

Ecodriveways can fit both your philosophy and your budget. When considering driveway options, factor the cost of an ecodriveway in combination with other water conservation tools. Look holistically at the site to help determine how your ecodriveway could be constructed for the greatest beneficial impact. To create a successful ecodriveway, consider involving a team of experts who are creative, innovative and experienced. Open up the toolbox of ideas, and stay flexible when considering the options. You will be delighted with the results. And so will Mother Nature!

Formecology, LLC Receives Their 5th Year NARI ACE (Achievement in Consumer Excellence) Award!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:51 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Kim DiMaggio

Director of Operations, NARI of Madison, Inc.

608-222-0670

Mail to: Kim@NARIMadison.org, Kathy@NARIMadison.org

Madison Remodeling Professionals Earn Achievement in Consumer Excellence Designation

(Madison, WI), (February 2018) – Achievement in Consumer Excellence (ACE) for 2017 were earned
by 10 NARI of Madison members.

Architectural Building Arts, Inc.
Avant Gardening & Landscaping
Beckman Builders
Curran Cabinetry & Design LLC
designCraft Advertising
Formecology LLC
Rockweiler Insulation Inc.
Schorr Construction
Simply Stated Interiors
Tony Trapp Remodeling & Repairs

The concept of the ACE Awards program is to:

Create additional awareness of NARI members, through the implementation of a client driven award system.
Create a recognition program for NARI vendors and suppliers in recognition of their providing exemplary service and support.
Provide a mechanism to provide client feedback on NARI members based on the following criteria:
Quality of Work
Responsiveness
Punctuality
Professionalism

Requirements for the program were to submit at least 5 positive client surveys.

“We are proud of our crew and staff for achieving these positive results, and we appreciate the great clients that we get to work for! Good or bad, we use client feedback to better ourselves as a company”, says John Gishnock III, owner.

***** About NARI: The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) is the only trade association dedicated solely to the remodeling industry. The association, which represents more than 6000 member companies nationwide- comprised of 63,000 remodeling contractors- is “The Voice of the Remodeling Industry.” ™ To locate a local NARI chapter or a remodeling professional, visit NARI’s website at www.nari.org , or contact the national headquarters, based in Des Plaines, Illinois, at 800-611-NARI.

We’re Hiring! Landscaping Jobs Available!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:50 GMT

Why work for Formecology?!

We are here to stay! Formecology has been in business for over 20 years and growing stronger every year.

Formecology is an industry leader in providing sustainable, organic landscape services – including design, build, and care (maintenance), for residential, small commercial & public spaces. We take pride in caring for our environment while providing quality work, but no, you don’t have to be a ‘tree-hugger’ to work for us.

We are not just looking for ’employees’. We are looking for Formecology family! There is an opportunity for long-term growth and expanding roles within our company.

While we are professional and focused, our staff also enjoys a diversity of projects and a fun environment.

We appreciate our employees and their families and want to provide them with long-term, successful careers. Our newly expanded benefit package now offers 401k and health insurance in addition to the pre-existing paid time off, paid holidays, profit sharing bonuses, company phone & laptop, on the job training, workman’s compensation, paid professional dues, and competitive pay. SIGN-ON BONUS AVAILABLE!

And…we have a newly constructed office building!

Click on the links below to learn more about the landscape jobs we are hiring for.

Landscape Crewmember

Landscape Crew Leader/Foreman

We are located in Evansville, Wisconsin, but work is primarily in the Madison, Wisconsin/Dane county area. Email your resume to info@formecology.com or the employment application can be found on

our website at:

Want to learn more about Formecology, LLC? Check out our company profile video !

Naïve to Natives- From the Wife of a Landscape Architect

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:49 GMT

Being the wife of a Landscape Architect, you would think I would know something about plants and landscape design, but the reality is, I didn’t know much at all. Not only about traditional landscaping, but “sustainable” landscaping, in which my husband and our company, Formecology, LLC, specialize in. I know my husband likes to incorporate “native” plants, with long funny names, in his landscape designs like Asclepias Tuberosa (Butterflyweed), Aster Cordifolius (Aster), Echinacea Purpurea (Purple Coneflower), etc… but for some reason it took me a while to understand why he doesn’t use more commonly known plants, shrubs, and trees that everyone and their brother uses to landscape their front yards. I guess it is the same reason why most people now days drive fuel efficient cars, recycle and eat organic. When you become aware of how the way you live can positively affect the environment and everyone around you, then you want to make that change.

What is so special about these “native” plants? I attended a couple of landscape seminars with my husband, and it turns out I learned more than I thought I would. I now have a new appreciation for these plants and for sustainable landscaping. Native vegetation is plants, trees and shrubs that are specialized to our region and have been around for many years. They have adapted to our environment and can thrive in our ever changing climate. You don’t even have to care for them. They care for themselves. These plants are wonderful to use in rain gardens because they have long root systems, with some spanning up to 14 feet underground. This helps to absorb the water into the ground like a sponge rather than running off into our lakes and streams. Grass has a root system of about an inch and cannot help much with water retention. The long root systems of native plants are also very fibrous and this acts as a filter to clean water of debris and chemicals before flowing into our waterways. Pretty cool!

Most importantly, because native plants are special to our region, they are also special to the ecosystem that relies on them for survival. Because these plants and other vegetation have been around for many years, certain bugs, caterpillars, birds and other pollinators have developed a special adaptation pollinating and eating these plants. Some plants are toxic to caterpillars, but over time, caterpillars have developed immunity to certain native plants. In turn, some birds developed immunity to certain caterpillars. If you remove these native plants, then the caterpillars will have nothing to eat and could not turn into beautiful butterflies. Birds won’t have caterpillars to feed their hungry babies. The pollinators won’t be able to pollinate the plants to continue the web of life. Because of this, some birds and butterflies will go extinct. How sad.

Lastly, these native plants are beautiful. I love looking out over our prairie and watching the landscape change color and shape over the seasons. I love seeing what new birds, butterflies and wildlife come to visit the prairie and the flower beds. I love how low maintenance these plants are. And my favorite, I love knowing how impactful these native plants are to our environment.

Fall Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Lawn in the Spring!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:49 GMT

It’s hard to believe that winter is right around the corner. We have enjoyed a great season and hope you have also. Before the snow begins to fall, we wanted to take an opportunity to remind you of some important fall landscape maintenance tips that will help to provide a healthy yard and lawn in the spring.

Lawn Mowing – It is recommended to have your lawn short for the fall and winter months. This will prevent a buildup of dead grass in the spring that may smother new growth.

Sprinkler System Winterization – By shutting down the water supply and filling the pipes with pressurized air you are able to blow out all remaining water. This will help prevent pipes from breaking due to the water freezing in them.

Leaf Clearing & Removal- Fall is one of the times when the cool season grasses will revitalize themselves if given sufficient sunlight, nutrients, and water. A thick and/or matted layer of fallen leaves will cast excessive shade over the grass below and deprives the grass of sunlight. Lawns also need to breath during the winter and fall leaves can smother the grass if left on top.

Lawn Aeration – Fall is great time for lawn aeration because it reduces soil compaction and allows water and fertilizer to seep into the root zone.

Lawn Fertilizer – Fall is the most important time for fertilization since the lawn has passed through the stressful summer months and needs food to rebuild itself. In addition, during fall season there is less competition from weeds, insects, and diseases. Nutrients are required to take full advantage of the cool weather growth period to restore the lawn and prepare it for the next summer

Fall flower bed clean ups and pruning – To be ready to sprout new growth next season your flower beds need to be cut back or divided, the vegetable garden needs to be cut down, and new mulch needs to be added to protect plants from winter freeze. It is also recommended to prune back the trees and shrubs to prevent winter damage.

Contact formecology LLC to assist with your fall maintenance/clean-up needs – the snow will be falling soon!

Landscape Care For the Fall Season

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:47 GMT

Fall is the best time to plant flowering trees, shrubs & perennials –the temps are cooler and typically we have more rain. Landscape contractors also love to build hardscape features like patios, retaining walls and walkways in the fall. The cooler temps are perfect for laying heavy natural stone.

Soon it will also be a great time for pruning your existing landscape plants as well. November is the ideal month for removing unwanted or diseased/dying branches from trees and shrubs as they will be dormant and not actively growing. The pruning wounds will harden off on their own and your tree or shrub won’t blink an eye!

Fall is also a good time to cleanup your landscape so it looks great for the fall & holidays. Landscape contractors like Formecology can help you –

Spring, fall and special event cleanups – Leaf removal and composting, bed re-edging and mulch topdressing
Lawn Care – Organic-based fertilizer programs, core aerating, weed control, etc.
Tree and Shrub Care – Seasonal pruning and organic-based fertilizer programs
Natural Area Care (woodland, wetland, and prairie) – Invasive species removal, mowing/prescribed burning

Our services can be tailored to the needs of your specific landscape – contact us to set up an initial site visit so we can evaluate your needs and develop a strategy for your site!

Formecology Celebrates 15 Year Milestone!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:45 GMT

Formecology, LLC reaches a 15 year milestone under the ownership of landscape architect , John Gishnock III , in Evansville, Wisconsin. When Gishnock acquired the existing nine year old business back in 2006, he knew he was about to purchase a company whose mission was very closely aligned to the type of business he wanted to run. Not just a l andscape design/build/care company that was your typical garden variety, but a firm that also stressed beauty and highly functioning landscapes that were easier on the environment. After all, we know that ‘passion’ can go a long way in business development and success, so this union was likely to prove fruitful.

Moving forward 15 years now, Formecology has grown to be a reputable, client-centric company that focuses on beautiful, sustainable landscapes for homeowners and small businesses in south/central Wisconsin. “We have been able to grow one client at a time, sticking to long-lasting relationships and landscape solutions that provide tremendous value to our clients in Evansville, Madison, Janesville, New Glarus, and all points in between. It’s really exciting to be a part of something that is now bigger than me and runs with strong employee leadership and proven processes delivered with a professional-level of craft”.

Gishnock is a passionate and driven entrepreneur, but credits much of his success to surrounding sources as well: the support of his wife and family; the dedication of employees willing to learn and grow; to all he’s learned from the valued clients along the way; and the collaboration with other local business owners and organizations. Gishnock has managed to build a respectable reputation over the years by carrying out a solid business plan and maintaining continued education in the industry. And as more and more families acquire eco-friendly lifestyles, Formecology’s future and the services we provide are further validated by this growing trend in sustainable landscapes.

John and his wife, Kara Gishnock

Serving Rock, Dane, and Green counties Formecology, LLC provides homeowners and small businesses with consistent client communication, quality craftsmanship, and above average warranties.

Eco-Friendly Back to School Tips- Good for Your Children and the Environment

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:44 GMT

More and more parents and educators today are working hard to instill the importance of taking care of our planet to children. As families and their children prepare for back-to-school, here a few eco-friendly tips to utilize throughout the school year to help support healthy children and a healthy environment:

Take an inventory of what you already have that can be used again. Avoid last-minute impulse purchases by making a list of what you can re-use and what you yet still need before heading to the store. This will save materials as well as your dollars.

Buying clothes doesn’t have to come with sticker shock! Hand-me-downs and second-hand stores are not only more eco-friendly, but also cheaper and more fun to hunt around for.

The days of disposable pens and pencils are gone, replaced by biodegradable pencils and refillable pens. Once you have greener options in hand, encourage your youngsters to hang on to each pencil until it fully wears down and to each pen as long as possible. Find ‘green’ paper, notebooks and binders. Our office pens are made from recycled materials too!

Support your community and local business owners by shopping and spending local!

Don’t brown bag it; instead opt for a washable, reusable container to tote your lunch to and from. Whether buying lunch or packing, encourage children to eat as much as possible to avoid food waste.

If you don’t live close enough to walk, finding a safe bike route to school is a green way to go. School buses are also a cleaner option than single-occupancy cars. If walking, biking, or busing aren’t an option, start a parent carpool. If you do choose to drop off/pick up your child(ren) in your vehicle, do not leave it idling. This will add to the pollutants/contamination in the air. Also, turning off and restarting your vehicle after several seconds will save more on fuel/money than idling.

When preparing for school in the mornings, remind your children to turn the lights out when not in use. Teach them to turn the water off while brushing their teeth- this could save several gallons of water each day! Encourage thorough bathing and showers, but to keep them as brief as possible as to not waste water.

Keep in touch with nature during after-school hours. Evening hours can go by quickly between homework, dinner and bedtime, but don’t neglect to make time in between it all for a ball game in the yard, a walk or a bike ride. Being connected with nature will remind us to take care of nature.

Sustainable Summer Landscaping Ideas for Children

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:43 GMT

With the school year now over, it is a great time to introduce your children to the idea of helping with summer landscaping. Getting your children outdoors to participate in yard work can be both fun and educational!

Plant native plants! Native plants come in a variety of shapes, scents, and beautiful colors which can be very stimulating for children to see as they bloom. They are also very hearty plants and require minimal maintenance, so they are not demanding on a family’s busy summer schedule.

The long roots of native plants help to absorb a lot of the rainwater. Keeping this water in the ground prevents it from running into the streets where it collects dirt, then flows down into the waterways such as lakes and rivers that our children and wildlife play in (photo below of Lake Leota in Evansville, WI). Rain gardens and rain barrels are also good sources for absorbing or collecting rainwater.

Many native plants and shrubs attract wildlife to the yard such as birds, hummingbirds and butterflies. If you and your children can get to them before the birds do, some native plants and also produce edible leaves and/or berries. They are fun for children to forage and consume, but natural and healthy too �� Just to name a few:

Elderberry: These berries are safe to eat, but some will argue only after being cooked first. Elderberry can be used in pies, muffins, smoothies, jams, etc., or on oatmeal and cereal.
Hawthorn: The outer flesh of the berry is edible, do not eat the seed! The berries also make a great jelly. Hawthorn leaves and flowers can be used in salads and tea.
Serviceberry: For simplicity, serviceberries can be eaten raw. They are similar in taste to blueberries. They can be dehydrated like raisins or also cooked in pies, muffins or pudding.
Chokeberry: Like serviceberries, chokeberries can be eaten raw or used in cooking/baking. They do however have more of a bitter taste and may be preferred with sugar to sweeten (in minimal amounts though as to not deter the health benefits!).

Aside from these naturally growing edibles, you and your children can plant your own vegetable garden. Gardens can be as simple or complex as your time and space allows. Raised garden beds or potted vegetable plants are a great start if you’re not ready to tackle a full yard space. Children will enjoy the experience of eating a vegetable they grew themselves!

Think ‘green’ when considering lawn care treatments. Formecology, LLC offers organic lawn care services. We use natural, chemical-free products that are not only safer for the environment, but our children and pets too.

Children’s outdoor play areas can be created with some creativity and unwanted/unused landscape items. Keeping your children active and imaginative is one benefit, but it also encourages the importance of recycling ! The ideas are endless, but just to mention a few:

Use larger tree trunk pieces for outdoor seating or climbing structures.
Use tree limbs/branches for building blocks.
Larger rocks or concrete pieces can create walkways/pathways.
Summer time means rummage sale time! Re-using second hand items helps to keep less trash in our landfills (and more money in our pockets!). Children can find toys, trucks, balls, pots and pans, etc. for their outdoor play areas. Second hand items also make creative outdoor storage, décor or planters.

Whether it is full site, front or back yard or just a smaller garden area, Formecology’s in-house licensed landscape architect, John Gishnock III, can help to design your summer landscaping. Our experienced landscape crew, serving the Madison, Wisconsin and surrounding areas, can then construct and/or help maintain your outdoor space while your family enjoy a fun and educational summer break!

What To Look For In A Landscape Contractor- Craft Is King!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:42 GMT

If you are searching for a new landscape contractor, designer or landscape architect in the Madison, Wisconsin area and you prefer value with high quality craftsmanship, the following are some important qualities to look for in a landscape company:

Good listener – Landscape contractors should take notes and ask good questions.
Timely and dependable – Not just the first time, but every time!
First free meeting – Is the landscape company willing to visit to learn more about your project?
References available – This a great way to check on levels of client satisfaction and professionalism.
Good/extended warranties – None are no good, so make sure you’re receiving at least the industry average.
Examples of past work – A hard copy or online portfolio with project photos and a description is critical.
Detailed contracts – Clear expectations start with a concise and complete agreement- Don’t be afraid to ask for more ��

Along with the above, we here at Formecology, LLC improve our quality of work by encouraging and utilizing client feedback. We are 3 year recipients of the NARI ACE Award. The ACE award recognizes companies that provide outstanding customer service in quality, responsiveness, punctuality, and professionalism.

With the spring season soon upon us, contact Formecology, LLC to see how we can help with your landscape design, build (installation) and/or care (maintenance) project!

Love Your Lakes, Don’t Leaf Them!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:39 GMT

#1- What you do with your leaves affects the lakes -When leaf piles sit in the street, wind and rain carry them to drains and eventually into lakes and streams. Leaves contain nutrients that fertilize algae, which can turn lakes green.

#2- Composting your leaves saves you time and money -Composting leaves make a great fertilizer and are a valuable mulch for gardens, flower beds and around trees.

#3- Your municipality has rules for leaf collection -If you opt to rake, follow your municipality’s guidelines. They will often have leaf collection days or a location for leaf drop off.

#4- Keeping your leaves out of the street shows you care for your lakes -Show your love by keeping leaves out of the street and proudly displaying a yard sign to show everyone you care. This may help get neighbors and other community members on board too!

#5- What you do with your leaves affects your lakes -Rain seeping through leaf piles creates a nutrient-rich “tea” that flows along the curb and into the storm drains, even if the leaves themselves don’t move an inch.

#6- Composting your leaves saves you time and money -You can replace one fertilizer application each year by using a mulching lawn mower and leaving the mulched leaves right on your lawn.

#7- Keeping your leaves out of the street shows you care for your lakes -Try composting just some of your leaves even if you have too many to compost them all. Think of fallen leaves as an asset instead of waste.

#8- What you do with your leaves affects your lakes -Leaves can feed plants in your garden or algae in the lakes depending on where you put them. Show you love the lakes by keeping leaves and grass clippings out the street.

We would like to give a special thanks to My Fair Lakes at: www.myfairlakes.com for their Leafism information!

Happy Veterans Day! 8 Suggested Ways to Thank a Vet:

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:38 GMT

Say thank you – Give them a call or send an email and tell them that you appreciate what they have done, or are doing, for our country.

Listen- If they want to talk about their service, let them.

Send some love- Get out your phone book and find a VA hospital or nursing home and send a patriotic bouquet of flowers or a colorful collection of cookies. Add a heartfelt note thanking them for their service.

Attend a parade – If there is a parade close by, take your family and buy some flags to wave.

Visit a Veterans Day Services to Pay Your Respects – If you can’t find a parade, there are plenty of memorials that you can visit to pay your respects.

Fly a Flag – Flying the American Flag is a great way to show pride and respect for our country.

Give time or money to veterans groups – Many groups will benefit from your volunteered time or cash donations.

Our favorite �� Plant a tree in memory of a veteran – Planting a tree is always a great way to honor someone and will give you a permanent place to return to year after year to spend time and appreciate your freedom. See the link below for selecting hearty Wisconsin trees!

https://learningstore.uwex.edu/assets/pdfs/a2865.pdf .

Spreading the Word at the Monroe Street Festival!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:38 GMT

The Monroe Street Festival was fun and we enjoyed the conversation all day. Many individuals were interested in our “ecodriveway” projects and so we discussed porous paving materials and how to make our driveways generate less stormwater.

We meet many wonderful individuals and even got to say hi to the lion from the Henry Vilas Zoo!

Formecology Volunteers for ‘Design for a Difference’!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:37 GMT

Formecology volunteers to be a part of the ‘Design for a Difference’ project for the Respite Center in Madison, WI. The Respite Center provides free services for children whose families are under stress, in crisis, or need a break. The goal of this redesign was to provide a modern, positive environment for these children.

Formecology was happy to donate time and materials to install perennials and design and install two planters in the entry way. We hope the ‘unveiling’ was a success and wish the best to all involved!

Happy Clients Return For a Front Yard Design!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:33 GMT

Formecology created the backyard design for this contemporary Verona, WI home back in 2007. We were happy to return again in 2015 to complete their front yard design. The design was created to play off the unique architecture of the house and mimic the backyard features to create unity among both spaces. Similar plant and natural stone materials were used to also repeat existing landscape themes in the back.

Because their front yard sloped dramatically from the house, our design also helped to level off grades by creating a horizontal plane. Our clients found the design to be very meaningful and artful, just as it was in 2007 for their backyard ��

“Fall” is a great time to pick back “up” on your exterior to-do list!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:33 GMT

Fall is also a good time to cleanup your landscape so it looks great for the fall & holidays. Landscape contractors like Formecology can help you – call us for leaf removals & composting, deadheading, and/or re-mulching your landscape. Fertilizing your lawn with organic materials is a great way for your lawn to be healthy now and for next spring. Our rates are competitive and our work is second to none.

Call 608.882.6656 or email info@formecology.com to get on our fall schedule.

Eco-Friendly Back-To-School Tips

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:32 GMT

As families and their children prepare for back-to-school, here a few eco-friendly tips to utilize throughout the school year:

Take an inventory of what you already have that can be used again. Avoid last-minute impulse purchases by making a list of what you can re-use and what you yet still need before heading to the store. This will save materials as well as your dollars.
Buying clothes doesn’t have to come with sticker shock! Hand-me-downs and thrift stores are not only more eco-friendly, but also cheaper and fun too!
The days of disposable pens and pencils are gone, replaced by biodegradable pencils and refillable pens. Once you have greener options in hand, encourage your youngsters to hang on to each pencil until it wears down to the nub and to each pen as long as possible.
Find green paper, notebooks and binders.
Don’t brown bag it; instead opt for a washable, reusable container to tote your lunch to and from.
If you don’t live close enough to walk, finding a safe bike route to school is a green way to go. School buses are also a cleaner option than single-occupancy cars. If walking, biking, or busing isn’t an option, start a parent carpool.

From all of us here at Formecology, we wish your children a safe and happy return back to school!

Sustainable summer tips – Enjoy your summer while doing good for the environment!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:31 GMT

Eat local and organic. Purchase groceries from your local farmers’ market and choose food at the local grocery store.

When landscaping, use plant native plants. They are vigorous and hardy, they require no irrigation or fertilization, they are resistant to most pests and diseases, and they are low-maintenance plants.

Get a rain barrel and use the water for your garden. A rain barrel on a 2,000 sq. ft. home can capture as much as 36,000 gallons of water a year.

Make your yard a pesticide-free haven for birds & other wildlife. Hang up a bird feeder or build a bird house.
Wash your car on a lawn area to prevent dirty and soapy water from running off and down your storm drain.
Avoid purchasing new stuff – instead check out a garage sale. You’ll be reusing and saving money at the same time.
Take advantage of the beautiful weather and bike or walk whenever possible. You’ll be doing something good for your body and the environment by eliminating vehicle pollutants.
Put up and use a clothes line to save on energy.
Replace parts of your lawn with no mow grass or groundcovers to reduce mowing (lawnmowers as you may not know add a ton of toxins into the air!).

Two of two of our most recent designs!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:29 GMT

Here’s a new front yard design for one of our best clients. As you review the design please note the following:

As you face the house, the right and back side landscaping was completed by us in 2007. The existing landscape is artful and somewhat abstract & modern to fit the unique architecture of the house. The house was remodeled by Associated Housewrights, one of our companion businesses, in 2006/2007 as well. Here’s a photo of the back yard –

The new landscape design carries many of the same forms and shapes from the existing landscape to the front yard helping to connect the entire site thematically together.
Repeating the bold circle shape in the front was an ideal way to reinforce and very thoughtful architectural form.
Most of the shrubs and perennials will be grouped in bold masses to help keep it simple and let the forms provide the visual enjoyment.
Flowering trees (red shapes) will serve as focal points or features that provide more intense aesthetic pleasure. Native shrubs will provide a dense understory and help keep weeds a minimum.
You’ll note we didn’t change the existing perennial bed in the front yard. It currently encloses the front yard nicely and provides a nice splash of color along their road. Plus the client wasn’t looking for more perennial beds to weed so we thought keeping the shape the same made a lot of sense.
Lastly, to maintain the edges & forms, natural stone edging (and a retaining wall) will outline most of the shape of the new planting beds. Of course we’ll be repeating the same stone type, size, and thickness we used in the back. What another great way to connect and unify the site!

Check out the first of two new designs by our landscape architect!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:28 GMT

Check our formecology’s new design for a small, urban outdoor space set between two buildings. The focus for this landscape design included the following goals:

Expand & connect the outdoors with the interior space.
Provide an outdoor environment that is relaxing, restorative and useful.
Provide plant and hardscape materials that are hardy, durable and sustainable.
Our stepping stone path will be constructed using recycled concrete pieces.
Most perennial and shrub species are WI natives and will do very well in the local moisture and light patterns within the space.
Other features include a cedar trellis (using scrap wood) to help screen/soften harsh architecture and wood/metal benches fashioned by a local artisan will provide seating and add more greenery and softening to the space and architecture.
Native honeysuckle vine or roses will grow up the trellis & add to the ‘living wall’ idea.
Overhead café lighting can be a simple and efficient way to light and add a warm ambiance to the space.
A focus on connections pushed us to utilize colors & textures from the interior building space in the out of doors. Also a strong visual focus from inside looking out the door helped us see a strong linkage & potential location a focal feature in the space too. Wall art or other hanging piece will work very well here ��

If you have any questions or comments don’t hesitate to post a reply!!

First Day of Summer- June 21, 2015

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:27 GMT

See how simple natural stones can be fashioned in a pleasing (and very democratic) seating space:

Regional inspiration – 7 large natural stones (each weighs an average of 1800 pounds) are sited around a natural stone firepit. Room is left between each natural stone seat for additional seating etc. Each seating stone will comfortably seat two people so this space can handle smaller groups up to much larger sized.
The seating stones were locally quarried in Waupon, WI and provided to us by our friends at Madison Block & Stone (thanks Todd!!)
Hardy, native vegetation means less maintenance – Native swamp white oak and hackberry trees help provide the vertical walls that help make this council ring a true outdoor space. Walls, overhead canopy and views out make this a cozy and comfortable space.
It all starts with a plan – The most important component of this outdoor seating space is to get the scale right – if the space is too big it won’t feel intimate enough and if it’s too small it will feel crammed and to tight (and maybe a little hot).
Lastly, in order to render the firepit immediately useful, we opted to use turf sod around the firepit area and seed/straw for the lawn areas beyond the council ring. This was mainly done to reduce the likelihood of straw catching fire when using the firepit. In a few short months the lawn seed will germinate and fill in (and the straw will biodegrade and be gone).

Save Our Water- Pick Up Poop!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:26 GMT

Dog feces can be a real water quality problem. 35% of Wisconsin households have dogs and each mid-sized dog produces roughly 550 pounds of feces per year.

Pet waste left on sidewalks, streets, yards or other open areas can be washed away and carried by rainwater into our nearby rivers, lakes and streams and cause many problems.

Pet waste decays, using up dissolved oxygen and releasing compounds that are harmful to fish and other animals that rely on water.
Pet waste contains nutrients that can cause excessive algae growth in our waterways, upsetting the natural balance.
Pet waste contains harmful bacteria that contributes to contamination.

It’s a dirty and smelly job, but scoop the poop to help keep our water clean!

Fun Facts About Dandelions

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:23 GMT

All parts of the dandelion are edible and have medicinal and culinary uses. They are a great source of vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and flavor. Let’s stop spraying lawns with dangerous chemicals just to kill this incredibly useful plant!

acts as a mild laxative that promotes digestion, stimulates appetite, and balances the natural and beneficial bacteria in the intestines.
is a diuretic that helps the kidneys clear out waste, salt, and excess water.
improves liver function by removing toxins and reestablishing hydration and electrolyte balance.
increases bile production and reduces inflammation to help with gallbladder problems.
every part of the plant is rich in antioxidants that prevent free-radical damage to cells and DNA, slowing down the aging process in our cells.
acts against cancer to slow its growth and prevent its spread.
helps reduce inflammation throughout the body.
lowers and control cholesterol levels.
helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels.
the fiber and potassium in dandelion regulate blood pressure.
boosts immune function and fights off microbes and fungi.

Love Your Mother & Love Mother Nature!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:22 GMT

Plan an eco-friendly Mother’s Day with the gift of Mother Nature- inexpensive for you, relaxing for mom and easy on the environment! Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

Plan a picnic or grill out
go for a walk or bike ride
stroll through the park
go camping
prep the garden area
take kids/grandkids to the playground
visit local farm or zoo

Happy Mother’s Day- we hope your day is just as special as you are!

John Gishnock III Will Speak at the Next Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club Meeting!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:13 GMT

Wednesday, May 13, is the next meeting of the Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club at Creekside Place. This particular meeting features a case study that will inform, educate and hopefully inspire through peer-to-peer mentoring.

John Gishnock III, owner of Formecology, LLC, has agreed to talk about buying a business, making it your own and helping it grow. What a great opportunity to hear about the dos and don’ts of being a business owner, and then ask questions and share thoughts, too!

The Evansville Area Inventors & Entrepreneurs Club creates opportunities for inventors, entrepreneurs, investors, artists and like-minded individuals to come together to learn, network, share resources and inspire each other.

The public is invited and welcome to attend meetings and programs, held the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at 6:30 p.m., at Creekside Place, 102 Maple St., Evansville.

www.facebook.com/TheEvansvilleAreaInventorsEntrepreneursClub

A much appreciated ‘Thank You’ card John received after speaking at the I&E meeting!

Celebrate Arbor Day- April 24, 2015

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:11 GMT

Arbor Day is a day set aside for the purpose of planting and caring for trees, which the Arbor Day foundation calls “an act of kindness, a labor of love, and a commitment to stewardship.”

In Nebraska, 1872, J. Sterling Morton persuaded fellow Nebraskans to plant trees for windbreaks, erosion control fuel, building materials, and shade from the hot prairie sun. An estimated one million trees were planted that day.

Ways to celebrate Arbor Day:

clean up a local park or downtown area
plant a tree
reading a book about trees
volunteer with a local tree planting organization
take a nature hike

Celebrate & Protect the Planet This Earth Day!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:10 GMT

Earth Day aims to inspire awareness of and appreciation for earth’s environment!

There are many ways to celebrate:

Take a walk
Plant a garden, wildflowers or a tree
Make a birdhouse to encourage local bird population (using scrap wood from your garage is even better!)
Pick up trash
Have a picnic
Take a bike ride
Discuss with and educate your children on ways they can participate!

A prescribed burn for our office prairie gardens!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:08 GMT

Prescribed burning a mature prairie planting (or in our case a prairie garden) is one of the best ways to manage these wonderfully beneficial (and colorful) plantings.

This video takes you through a few minutes of a prescribed burn for a 4th year prairie. See why and when we’re burning and what some of the long –term benefits will be (weed management, adding nitrogen by way of ashes to the soil, etc.).

If you have any questions or would like additional info please don’t hesitate to let us know.

Additional Tips & Photos on the Formecology Prescribed Prairie Burn!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:07 GMT

Here are some additional tips and photos on the prairie burn conducted here at Formecology!

Prairie burns discourage weeds and stimulates growth of prairie plants.
Many plants, species, types of prairies and environmental factors influence how often to burn. Mesic (accumulate litter faster) prairies should burn every 1-3 years. Dry prairies should burn every 4-6 years. More frequent burns may be necessary on weedy prairies.
Burns should be conducted in March, April or early May.
Humidity, temperature, wind and rain are important factors in scheduling a burn.
Fire rejuvenates a prairie- More plants flower, more seeds produce, and plants grow taller and more robust than previous years.
Serves as a fertilizer- Fire increases nutrients through stimulation of microbial activity in the soil and by releasing small amounts of nutrients from the ash.
Lengthens the growing season- Most prairie plants grow best in warm soil. Fire burns off leaf litter, exposing a darkened soil surface to the warming rays of the sun, therefore warming up soil, promoting growth. Plants are not damaged by fire because buds lie beneath the ground.
Fire shortens the growing season for Eurasian weeds, warm soil causes their roots to stop growing.

Celebrate the Landscape Architects Profession During the Month of April!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:06 GMT

Landscape architects will join across the country during the month of April to promote the landscape architect profession, especially to children and young adults. From residential design to community parks, there’s a field out there for any ambitious student.

Formecology’s own landscape architect, John J Gishnock III, helps promote sustainability and healthy living through his residential and small commercial scale designs. Like a good landscape architect, John focuses on safety and human well-being, while also specializing in solutions that are easier on the environment.

To celebrate this month, take the time to walk through and observe a public garden, or begin preparations for a landscaped area in your own yard!

Formecology Is Featured On Houzz!

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 20:06:05 GMT

Formecology, LLC was hand-picked by a Houzz writer to be featured in an editorial ideabook on the homepage of Houzz!

To Manage Stormwater Sustainably, Understand Your Site

The key to creating a truly resilient and sustainable stormwater management plan for your home landscape is to understand your site. Look at how water works in your landscape and how it fits into the big picture. Identify existing issues and opportunities for improvement, and respond to your site’s stormwater needs in a way that’s best for your climate. Here’s how to get started:

Cultivart Landscape Design

1. See the Big Picture It’s helpful to look at your landscape as a whole when analyzing how water moves through it. Watch your yard during a heavy rain and take notes on where and how water moves and puddles. How do different surfaces and areas of the garden interact? Seeing your landscape during a rainstorm will help you think about the bigger picture for it’s stormwater design.In the yard here, water from the roof runs through the downspout to a rock swale that carries it through the garden. The decking and planted areas harmonize beautifully with the rock swale as it flows through the space.

Root Design Company.com

Know your climate. Know your region’s annual rainfall and when it usually occurs during the year — when is there too much or too little water, and how does that relate to your garden? For example, arid climates frequently have extended periods of drought but can also have heavy rainstorms during concentrated periods of time. Water storage and harvesting are great ways to respond to this condition. Other climates, like the Pacific Northwest, receive regular rain over the course of the year, and residents must create strategies for moving and infiltrating water from rain showers year-round. Understanding your climate’s rain will help you plan your stormwater management strategies.

Lisa Wilcox Deyo Landscape Architecture

Know your soil. Soil has the amazing capacity to cleanse water as the water filters through it. This is one of the primary reasons infiltration techniques are so important. Allowing dirty runoff from a driveway to percolate through the soil can clean the water before returning it to the groundwater.However, your soil needs to be able to effectively absorb stormwater to clean it. If water already can easily infiltrate your soil, you’ll have less work to do, because you can tap into your soil’s inherent properties to manage runoff. If you have poor infiltration due to soil compaction or a high clay content, you’ll have to do more work to manage water effectively.

H&G Landscape Architects

2. Identify Issues and Opportunities Most homeowners don’t know they have a water problem until their basement floods or a drought kills all of their garden plants. Before this happens, walk through your site and look for clues about how the water is behaving.Here is a list of questions to ask to help you identify challenges and opportunities for improved stormwater management in your landscape.

Which surfaces are contributing to runoff? Calculate the square footage of the roof, driveway, patio, walkways and other nonpermeable surfaces. See runoff as an opportunity for integrating water movement into your landscape design. Swales and rain gardens can be beautiful features.
Where is water pooling or sitting for prolonged periods of time? It’s normal for water to pool in spots during a heavy rain, but it should drain away within 24 hours or less. Depending on the situation, areas with pooling water are an opportunity for regrading. Grading reshapes the ground to manage water and help tie together areas of the garden.
Where are soils eroding? Soil erosion is a major concern and will only accelerate over time if it is not stopped. Even minor erosion will get worse with time. Areas with soil erosion are great places to plant ground covers and vines that stabilize soil.
Are there drought-prone areas? Check your plants on a warm, sunny afternoon for drooping leaves or sunburned foliage. Does the plant look wilted? Are the leaves being burned from sun exposure? These are signs that your current plants are drying out and will require too much irrigation to survive. The opportunity here is to plant species that need hot, full sun to flower. Depending on your climate, they could be succulents or native perennials.

Christopher Megowan Design

3. Respond in a Way That’s Best for Your Landscape

Store, slow, spread and sink runoff. Storing water is a great way to reduce irrigation demand and intercept runoff. In the space here, a roof downspout directs roof water to a rain barrel for storage.Slowing down and spreading runoff with swales and rain gardens helps to prevent flash flooding downstream. Green roofs and permeable paving are other great methods for intercepting stormwater at the source.

Allowing water to infiltrate the soil — also called sinking the water — whenever possible is the best thing you can do for your landscape and the environment.

Formecology, LLC

Move and infiltrate pooling water . Water that pools or ponds for more than 24 hours after a storm can be a sign of poor soil infiltration and/or too much runoff with nowhere to go. If your soil cannot efficiently absorb the stormwater where it pools, you can move the water to a point in the landscape with a rock swale, runnel or rain chain where the soil can absorb it. If your soil cannot effectively manage water on its own, or if you don’t have space to carve a swale through the landscape, you can also combine subdrainage with swales and stormwater planters to effectively manage water.

Feldman Architecture, Inc.

Stop soil erosion. You have a soil erosion problem if you find washed-out areas of barren soil or see that soil has been swept away from foundations or tree roots. It means water is coursing through that part of your landscape too quickly, which is evidenced by rivulets and cuts in the soil from fast-moving water.There are many solutions to this issue. Any of the sustainable stormwater techniques mentioned here can reduce the overall quantity and speed of water on the site. Additionally, look at how water meets the ground from your roof downspouts and be sure to slow, spread and sink the runoff at those points. Additionally, be sure to implement erosion control methods on steep slopes and areas with erosion-prone soils.

Dig Your Garden Landscape Design

Use drought-tolerant plants for dry areas. There are hot, sunny microclimates in the home landscape that can dry out significantly, even in climates with plenty of rain. Instead of wasting potable water on keeping those plants’ roots moist, use drought-tolerant native plants or other suitable drought-tolerant plants. Plants that thrive in hot sun will handle drought conditions and require far less irrigation than water-hungry alternatives.Plant shade trees as another strategy for cooling down overexposed areas. Trees benefit the home landscape by reducing the overall ambient temperatures in a city. With cities being warmer than nonurban areas — called the urban heat island effect — trees can play an important role in regulating temperatures around the home. Increased shade from trees also helps the garden retain moisture, which means less irrigation in the long run.

Falon Mihalic

Houzz contributor

To Manage Stormwater Sustainably, Understand Your Site