Category: General Advice
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Javelina Resistant Plants in Sedona and the Verde Valley: What Actually Works in Northern Arizona Landscapes
If you’re searching for javelina resistant plants in Sedona or the Verde Valley, you’ve likely come across long plant lists that promise to keep your landscape safe. Unfortunately, many of those lists don’t reflect what actually happens in real yards across northern Arizona. Javelinas are common throughout Sedona, Prescott, the Verde Valley, and surrounding areas,…
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Zwemer-Rushton Preliminary Landscape Design Ideas
These are a few pictures showing what some of the design ideas in the preliminary design look like. Wall fountain idea for Portal area Example 1 of 2 Wall fountain idea for Portal area Example 2 of 2 Rustic flagstone firepit. With or without seatwall. Flagstone patio surface optional. Santa Fe style patio cover for…
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DA Ranch landscape update 2-10-2026
Here are some pictures showing the latest improvements with some commentary. Completion of the low rock wall modification Steps and planter at the north edge of the deck Adding soil to raise the grade adjacent to the rear deck Begining placment of boulder on rear slope Stockpiling of boulders retrieved from creek for use on…
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Designing with Native Plants in Sedona: Myths, Misunderstandings & Smart Strategies
In Sedona’s striking high desert landscape, an increasing number of homeowners express an interest in creating gardens that feel “natural,” “native,” or “low-water.” While these goals are admirable, they often come with some misconceptions. As a landscape designer specializing in the Sedona area, I’d like to address some common misconceptions about native plants and provide…
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Finding Your Perfect Landscape Privacy Solution
Because “good fences” come in many forms—some leafy, some solid, and some completely custom. 1. Evergreen Hedges & Living “Walls” What they are: Dense rows of shrubs or small trees (think Photinia, Glossy Leaf Privet or Junipers) clipped or allowed to grow informally. Pros Cons • Soft, green year‑round screen • Excellent sound absorption • Supports…
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Hummingbird Plants for Sedona
Hummingbirds are fascinating birds that seem to mesmerize us while they suddenly buzz into our garden and search out suitable flowers to feed on nectar. They hover like winged insects suspended in the air, grasping at minuscule gnats in the air, but also require the nectar from flowers. This act of feeding on the flowers…
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Hummingbird Garden Design Tips and Ideas for Sedona
Now that you have a list of suitable hummingbird-friendly plants that will grow in the Sedona area (USDA Zone 7), the plants you use will depend on basic design principles based on the plant’s form and purpose. If you are looking to create a hummingbird garden, don’t focus solely on which plants to buy; instead,…
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Landscape Guidelines for Wildfire Protection
Landscaping to Reduce Wildfire Risk: A Firewise‑Inspired Guide for Homeowners Wildfire protection scientists keep repeating one big takeaway: what burns a house is usually the yard immediately around it, not the distant flames you see on TV. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) calls this the Home Ignition Zone (HIZ) and breaks it into three rings that you can actively…
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Sedona Native Plants: A Beautiful, Sustainable Choice for Your Landscape
When it comes to creating a thriving, low-maintenance landscape in Sedona, nothing beats the beauty and resilience of Sedona native plants. Whether you’re a full-time resident or a seasonal homeowner, embracing Sedona native plant landscaping is one of the most intelligent ways to design a garden that complements the local environment, conserves water, and requires…
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Why Hiring a Landscape Designer First is the Smartest Move for Your Outdoor Project
By John Stuart Leslie, JSL Landscape Design, Principle Senior Designer When homeowners begin planning an outdoor transformation—whether it’s a simple garden refresh or a full backyard makeover—there’s often a temptation to go straight to hiring a contractor, mason, or plant installer. But before any stone is laid or soil turned, one key professional should come…