Landscape Articles | Judith Lipson- Rubin

Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2024

7 Advantages of Custom Landscaping Services

Landscaping can be broadly defined as the changes you make to the land around your home in order to make it more aesthetically pleasing. It covers everything from the plants that you choose to the extra structures that ...

Curb appeal landscaping

Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2024

Curb Appeal Landscaping Ideas for a Great First Impression

Whether you’re looking to make changes to your home to make it a more enjoyable place to live or you want to make it more attractive for resale, there's plenty of options for adding curb appeal.

Judith Lipson- Rubin | November, 2023

Backyard Entertainment Ideas: How to Transform Your Backyard Into an Ideal Space for Entertaining

One of the many satisfying ways of utilizing your outdoor space is by entertaining your family, friends, and neighbors. Hosting gatherings in the garden that you care for throughout the seasons can be fun and very ...

growing native ornamental grasses: a beautiful and eco-friendly addition to your garden

Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2023

Growing Native Ornamental Grasses: A Beautiful and Eco-Friendly Addition to Your Garden

Adding plants with different heights, textures and colors can be an excellent solution to adding depth and natural beauty to your garden, but many plants with interesting colors and textures often come with a ...

green fall cleanup: tips to keep your yard looking great

Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2023

Green Fall Lawn Cleanup: Tips to Keep Your Yard Looking Great in a Sustainable Way

When most people think of a fall yard cleanup, they envision transforming their yard into a spotless lawn and garden beds full of perfectly manicured grass, without a single leaf in sight. This may be a nice image for a ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2023

The Crucial Steps to a Lawn Renovation in the Fall

Spring and summer are by far the busiest times in the garden, but just because the weather has turned cooler doesn’t mean it’s time to hang up those gardening gloves just yet. There are a lot of tasks that can be ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2023

Using Arbors and Pergolas to Add Shade and Interest in the Garden

As we find ourselves making our way through the dog days of summer, you may think, "Why didn’t I plant some more shade trees this spring? Or the last 10 springs!"

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2023

Great Ideas for an Efficient and Welcoming Outdoor Kitchen

Hosting backyard cookouts is one of the premier perks of suburban living. Whether it's a large gathering for a special occasion, or just showing off your latest fancy burger recipe to a few friends, it can be a great ...

getting acquainted with native bees in massachusetts

Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2023

Getting Acquainted with Native Bees

“Save the bees” is a phrase that has been repeated endlessly over the last couple of decades. We know how important it is to support our pollinator population, and have learned many ways to care for bees as they do ...

dealing with garden pests naturally

Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2023

Battling Bugs: Dealing with Garden Pests Naturally

Gardening provides us with many joys, but there are, of course, hurdles to jump. The fact of the matter is that you can’t have a garden without garden pests. You can spray for them if you want to take care of them ...

The Elemental Garden

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2023

The Elemental Garden

Many of us are seeking calm moments throughout our increasingly busy days. Not only should our homes provide us with peace and comfort, but we should also find that tranquil balance in our lawns and gardens, the natural ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2023

The Hidden Benefits of Fungi

Mushrooms play a very important role in many different ecosystems. The fruiting bodies are a source of food for many different species, not just humans, and on a smaller scale, the mycelium digests and decomposes ...

the key to composting

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2023

The Key to Composting

Adding compost to your lawn and garden is one of the best, easiest, most natural ways to get happy, healthy plants. Compost can be bought at lawn and garden centers, farmers markets, and sometimes even from zoos. But ...

From Catalog to Early Crop: It's Not Too Soon for Garden Daydreams

Judith Lipson- Rubin | February, 2023

From Catalog to Early Crop: It's Not Too Soon for Garden Daydreams

This time of year, walking out to fetch the mail may be one of the only ways you're scratching the itch to spend some time outdoors. These short forays to the front stoop or the end of the driveway don't allow us to get ...

ancient techniques in the modern garden

Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2023

Ancient Techniques for the Modern Garden

Before the mass adoption of chemical pesticides, fertilizers, and mechanized farming equipment in the early 20th century, people had to rely on more natural methods of cultivating plants. Prior to these changes, ...

5 Ways to Enjoy Your Garden Through the Winter Months

Judith Lipson- Rubin | December, 2022

5 Ways to Enjoy Your Garden Through the Winter Months

Watching your garden erupt in the spring, flourish in the summer, and change and fade in the fall is thrilling. There is so much beauty to observe and so many fulfilling tasks to complete to help your garden be as ...

Helping Plants Survive Times of Drought and Extreme Heat

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2022

Helping Plants Survive Times of Drought and Extreme Heat

For an environmentally conscious gardener, managing your garden during a drought is a constant battle between needing to conserve water and keeping your parched plants alive. Drought is often paired with heat waves ...

what's great to know about sustainable lawns and lawn care

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2022

What's great to know about sustainable lawns and lawn care

Home lawn care has been a subject of human interest since around the 11th century, with the Japanese sodding areas around their gardens with turf grasses taken from livestock fields. Since then, with the introduction of ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2022

Hacking Nutrient Cycles for Vibrant Plants

When it comes to plant care, chemical processes are the main element of whether plants wither and die, or survive and thrive. But more often than not, these processes are watered down into three categories; light, ...

Rainwater Collection for Landscape Maintenance

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2022

Rainwater Collection for Landscape Maintenance

Maintaining a home garden can sometimes require a significant amount of water to maintain. Of course, from time to time that’s supplemented by rainfall, but what about the rest of the time? For most people, this extra ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2022

Organic Gardening to Offset Rising Food Costs

Supply chain shortcomings are topping news headlines left and right lately, and it’s not just the latest cars and electronics being affected. Food shortages and price increases are becoming the new normal, and many ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2022

Shade gardening design ideas that bring the WOW to your landscape

If you’re a homeowner who has been discouraged about gardening because your property is partially or even totally shaded, take heart. Gardening in shady areas is not only possible, it also can be very rewarding – if you ...

landscape design

Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2022

Why Landscape Design is Important and How Professionals Can Help

Good landscape design is much more than simply sowing seeds and plunking a row of shrubs in the ground. There is much detail involved in landscape design that requires trained professionals who have knowledge and ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2022

The Best Garden Landscaping Tips Every Homeowner Wants to Know

There are few better feelings than getting outside and getting lost in your garden. No matter what the task at hand involves, from pruning and weeding to ensure your beds look beautiful, it’s an amazing feeling to ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2022

How to Attract Bats for Sustainable Pest Control

Although insects are vital to a sustainable landscape, an excess of the annoying ones like mosquitos can be a deterrent to enjoying your outdoor spaces. Chemical pesticides can be effective, but are indiscriminate and ...

Rewild Your Backyard

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2022

10 Easy Ways to Rewild Your Backyard

Rewilding is not a new idea, but it has grown in popularity over the last several years. The modern homeowner is becoming more aware of how even small choices they make in their backyard affects the bigger picture. As ...

Yard Landscaping Ideas

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2022

Yard Landscaping Ideas to Enhance Your Summer Enjoyment

The pandemic has forced many homeowners to spend a lot more time at home, contemplating their property and thinking of ways to improve it to add both value and enjoyment. For some their yards have become a refuge from ...

Popular Pollinator Garden Ideas

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2021

Protecting Our Pollinators: Popular Pollinator Garden Ideas

Pollination has recently become a hot topic in part because a fatal disease has been killing honeybees, threatening the ability of commercial farms to produce an adequate supply of the fruits and vegetables we all love ...

sustainable landscaping

Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2021

Why sustainable landscaping will protect the environment

As efforts to combat climate change become increasingly urgent, one term that is gaining visibility and popularity is “sustainable landscaping.” But what exactly is it and how can it help us protect the environment? ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2021

Organic gardening ideas the eco-conscious homeowner will love

Gardening in general and organic gardening specifically are growing in popularity as an increasing number of homeowners are becoming aware of the benefits. The pandemic, economic uncertainty, and the rising cost of food ...

spring gardening ideas

Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2021

Top 10 beautiful spring gardening ideas for New England

There’s no question about it – New England can be a tough place to garden. Whether it’s flowers or vegetables, pleasure or produce, New England’s soil and weather can take a toll on both the garden and the gardener. So ...

Container Gardening Ideas

Judith Lipson- Rubin | February, 2021

Container Gardening Ideas You’ll Love to Know

The pandemic has brought about a number of widespread changes in how we live, eat, and thrive. Gone for now are the days of carefree eating out. Tightened budgets often mean tightened belts as more and more Americans ...

winter feeding habitat

Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2021

Smart Tips for Creating a Winter Feeding Habitat

While summer may be long gone, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy an active yard during the colder months and throughout winter. The key is creating an attractive, sustainable winter ecosystem that not only provides ...

landscape design ideas

Judith Lipson- Rubin | December, 2020

Landscape Design Ideas You'll Love to Know

The pandemic has had some unusual positive effects on people, and one of them is the upsurge in home improvement projects. Homeowners everywhere have gotten busy putting in new patios, firepits, walkways, gardens and ...

Sustainable Landscaping

Judith Lipson- Rubin | November, 2020

Working with the Land: Sustainable Landscaping and the Natural World

Truly successful landscaping starts with sustainability, which is built on a foundation of ecology -- really just a fancy word for the relationship of all organisms to each other and their surroundings. By understanding ...

ecological fall cleanups

Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2020

The Difference between Traditional and Ecological Fall Cleanup Part 3

In part one of our series comparing ecological cleanups with traditional ones, we discussed the differences between ecological and conventional landscaping. In the second part, we reviewed some of the specific processes ...

foundation plants

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2020

How to Pick the Best Foundation Plants for Great Curb Appeal

Nothing improves the beauty of a yard and the curb appeal of a home more than the right plantings. Color, texture, size, and shape combine to create a unique and attractive environment that adds value as well as beauty ...

indoor outdoor living spaces

Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2020

Personal and Environmental Benefits of Outdoor Living Spaces

It seems intuitive that we like to spend time outdoors -- we’ve all craved nature at one time or another -- but science has now identified some of the reasons we actually need to spend time in a more natural setting. In ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2020

The DIYer’s Guide to Garden Landscaping

Gardening and garden landscaping to many people invokes images of beautiful flowers or rows of healthy fruits and vegetables. But gardening is so much more than that. Modern garden design encompasses a wide range of ...

nature and gardening can help people improve their mood and improve health

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2020

Combating Coronavirus: The Surprising Benefits of Landscaping

As the world continues to grapple with the coronavirus pandemic, we’re hearing a lot about test kits, treatments, vaccines, and ventilators. And while all of these are crucial to the COVID-19 fight, many people don’t ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2020

5 Ways Climate Change Impacts the Landscape and Growing

According to the American Society of Landscape Architects climate change is rapidly growing as a significant factor in landscape design. Raising temperatures, more frequent and severe droughts, and increasing damage ...

organic landscape company arlington ma

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2020

4 Important Characteristics of an Organic Landscape Company

Organic landscaping is both a process and a strategy for creating a beautiful, dynamic landscape while supporting a low-environmental-impact installation and maintenance approach. And while organic landscaping may not ...

organic lawn gardening

Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2019

How toxic are lawn care chemicals and what are some alternatives?

Lawn care chemicals have been around for decades. But only in recent years have we started to become aware of some of the damage that can be caused by these compounds. There is a lot of hype and misinformation out there ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2019

4 Guiding Principles: Organic Gardening for a Healthier Landscape

In recent blog posts, we have been discussing the key differences between organic and conventional landscaping. While conventional gardening tactics may be more prominent, we believe that organic methods are better for ...

landscape garden front yard

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2019

What's the difference between conventional and organic landscaping? (Part 2)

In our previous blog post, we provided an overview of the difference between conventional and organic landscaping. We explained the ultimate goal of organic landscaping: to use gardening and lawn care methods that ...

backyard landscape flowers sustainable

Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2019

What's the difference between organic and conventional landscaping?

We live in a time when humans have a tremendous impact on the environment with agriculture and industry. This is especially true in developed countries – according to research by the University of Michigan, we would ...

front yard landscape pruning

Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2019

How to Prune Plants so They Thrive

Pruning is one of those gardening techniques that many people overcomplicate. While pruning does help a plant grow strong, healthy, and in the proper direction, that doesn’t mean it has to be a complex undertaking that ...

landscape garden front yard

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2019

Expert Advice for Creating an Easy & Enjoyable Landscape

A common misconception we see among homeowners is that it takes tons of time and effort to build and then maintain a yard that provides enjoyment. Many people mistakenly believe that they don’t have enough spare time to ...

landscaping bloom time massachusetts

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2019

3 Rules for Beautiful Landscape Blooms All Year Long

While we may be firmly in summer’s grasp here in Massachusetts, as locals know, this weather won’t last forever. Although we are now seeing more extended runs of high temperature thanks to climate change, our area has ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2019

6 Fun, Creative Ways to Make Your Landscape Beautiful

One of the nice things about maintaining a healthy landscape is the aesthetic appeal. We believe that fewer things are more beautiful than an environmentally-friendly yard that forms a natural part of the local ...

hardscape patio landscaping

Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2019

5 Super Easy Ways to Fix a Bad Home Builder Landscape Job

A skilled builder can add features like decks, hardscaping, and other attractive structures that make your home better both aesthetically and functionally. Ideally, you want your home’s construction features to ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2019

Common Pruning Mistakes & How to Fix Them

With the warmer weather of summer now here to stay in Massachusetts, homeowners will soon start seeing sprouts and seedlings from their early season plantings, if they haven’t already. As your yard grows, it’s important ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2019

The 4 Best Organic Weed Control Tips Gardeners Love

Everyone loves having a healthy yard that is capable of growing many types of interesting, vibrant shrubs and trees. Unfortunately, the presence of unsightly weeds is one of the drawbacks of having a yard that can ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2019

Why Won't My Garden Grow? 3 Mistakes According to Mary

Now that we’re into June and the summer solstice is only a few weeks away, it’s time for the Earth to show us its natural beauty in the form of colorful, vibrant shrubs and trees. Yet we’ve found that this is also a ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2019

The Top 3 Summer Flowers to Beautify Your Landscape

After battling the forces of winter into the early part of May, it appears to finally be time for consistent warm weather here in Massachusetts! We’ve been dealing with the cold longer than normal this year, which can ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | November, 2018

The Monsanto Lawsuit - Is Roundup (glyphosate) Safe to Use in Your Yard?

Using organic methods to take care of your lawn isn’t just better for the environment - it may also be safer for human health. This past summer, a terminally ill former groundskeeper in San Francisco was awarded a $250 ...

foxglove-biennial-flower

Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2018

Choosing Hardy Biennials for Your Yard in Massachusetts

As the name suggests, biennials are plants that take at least two years to go through their entire lifecycle. With multicolor bloom phases and interesting shapes, these plants make an ideal addition to any yard. Some of ...

front-fall-landscape

Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2018

Redoing Your Lawn for Fall in Massachusetts

In the fall, changing leaves bring the year’s last few splashes of color as flowers, shrubs, and other plants start to become dormant for winter. Even though spring and summer are the main bloom times, there are many ...

multi-textured-garden

Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2018

Planting Grasses in the Fall for Year-Round Interest

One of our favorite things about landscape design is the amount of personal expression it allows. Most people associate landscape with flowers and shrubs, but there are many different styles of plants that can thrive in ...

Basil-Garden

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2018

3 Vegetable Garden Tips for Fall in Massachusetts

Growing vegetables and other edible plants is one of the most rewarding forms of gardening. You get to enjoy the fruits of your labor - literally - with fresh food, spices, and herbs that can be used in delicious meals. ...

fall-landscape-plants

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2018

Extending Your Fall Bloom Time for An Attractive Yard - Even in Cold Weather

Now is the time of year when cold weather approaches and spring blooms are mostly gone. But just because it’s not the beginning of the season doesn’t mean you have no interest in your yard to look forward to. With some ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2018

3 Tips for Fall Season Planting in Massachusetts

With Labor Day now behind us, it’s time to wrap up summer and start preparing for autumn. Though the hot weather is still hanging around right now, before you know it the temperatures will drop and you’ll need a jacket ...

Hailman

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2018

Reducing Waste and Harm to the Environment Part 2

In our previous blog post, we touched on methods to choose, arrange, and support healthy shrubs and trees in your yard. For this post, we will be talking about ways to maintain your yard over the long run. We’ll also ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2018

Top Tips for Landscape Design on a Sloped Yard

People with sloped yards often feel like they are unable to get a yard to look as good as a more level outdoor space. This isn’t the case - while a sloped yard does require some specific care and may not be best for all ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2018

Best Fall Colors in New England

Before the wind and early snow take away the rest of our fall foliage, make some time to appreciate the variety of color New England has this time of year. Plants that have phenomenal fall foliage colors are important ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2018

Reducing Waste and Harm to the Environment from Landscaping in Massachusetts (part 1)

In recent years, there’s been a large push to educate homeowners and commercial landscapers on how to conserve the environment. More and more home and business owners are realizing that poor landscaping practices will ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2018

3 Tips for Conserving Water in Your Home Landscape Design

In a July 2018 meeting, the Massachusetts Drought Management Task Force declared that the state of Massachusetts was free of drought conditions. This is a sigh of relief for residents of the state who remember the ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2018

How and Why to Minimize Your Lawn in Massachusetts

A short, neatly-edged expanse of sprawling green grass is the ultimate idea of the American lawn. Unfortunately, the “perfect” lawn is more reminiscent of a chemically-treated golf course than a healthy yard that ...

fall color sitting area

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2018

How to Create a Sitting Area in a Small Backyard

How to use a small yard for a sitting area? Simple!

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2018

Seasonal Planting for Year-Round Beauty and Environmental Support

Homeowners often place lots of emphasis on creating a garden with beautiful flowers and shrubs that bloom majestically in the spring season. Unfortunately, focusing on beauty for a single season can leave your yard ...

backyard-entertainment-area

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2018

5 Organic Mosquito Control Methods for Massachusetts

Summer is about getting together with friends and family in a fun celebration of the season. Unfortunately, this is a tradition that is often interrupted by uninvited pests like mosquitoes. These insects can make happy ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2018

Getting Ready for Spring- Tips for Your Garden and Yard

Spring Is On Its Way! Here are few suggestions for getting your garden and yard ready for the warm weather and green grass.

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2018

How to Get Your Massachusetts Yard Ready for Outdoor Gatherings

There’s nothing like hosting a summer get-together in your backyard to celebrate the season. Spending quality time with friends in your outdoor space is the epitome of summer, and it’s time to prepare for upcoming BBQs ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2018

The Top 6 Organic Pest Control Methods for Massachusetts Landscaping

Every yard will eventually face pest problems. Caterpillars stripping leaves in your new vegetable garden and fungus that causes root rot in flowers and shrubs are only a couple of examples of the extensive damage that ...

Highbush Blueberry Shrub

Judith Lipson- Rubin | June, 2018

Benefits of Using Native Plants of the Northeast

Throughout the past few years it has become a very popular trend for designers to create a native plant garden design, and for good reason. The benefits of using native plants in your home garden can be extensive. Some ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2018

The Organic Gardening Guide to Summer Yard Maintenance

Once summer hits and you’ve finished all of the work you had planned for spring, it can be tempting to spend your free time enjoying the sun and letting your yard do its own thing. While your yard doesn’t need as much ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2018

4 Things to Know Before Your Next Hardscaping Project

When looking to achieve a balanced, peaceful yard, remember that hardscaping is just as important as natural features. These man-made components, such as walkways, patios, and divider walls, are an important part of the ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2018

Choosing and Caring For Organic Gardening Tools

Soil, seeds, and sunlight may be the foundation for a healthy and fruitful garden, but without proper care and attention, you won’t be able to grow the beautiful shrubs and flowers you want. With the right tools for ...

dogs and gardens

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2018

Tips to Create a Pet-Friendly Organic Yard

Everyone loves the family pet, a companion that kids and adults appreciate having around. But as homeowners with dogs and cats know, there are some parts of your residence that you can’t share with your furry bundle of ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2018

Top 5 Landscape Maintenance Tips

Landscapes that have been properly and professionally designed, installed, and maintained have a pleasing and consistent appearance. Of course the visual will change with the seasons, but it will always be inviting, ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2018

4 Benefits of Healing Gardens

Healing gardens are not new, although they have garnered a lot of recent attention. While most notably found in hospital settings, home gardens are also gaining in popularity. They come in a multitude of shapes and ...

honey bee pollinators

Judith Lipson- Rubin | April, 2018

What to Know About Honey Bees in Massachusetts

Say the word “bees” around most people and the first thing that comes to mind is a black-and-yellow menace that terrorizes children and summer get-togethers. But that’s an unfair and incomplete picture of the importance ...

garden landscaping

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2018

A Beginner's Guide to a Massachusetts Vegetable Garden in 2024

Growing your own food is healthy, reduces your environmental footprint, and can even reduce stress and improve your mood. But before you jump into buying supplies for a vegetable garden, you’ll want to do some planning. ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2018

They're Not Just for Beauty: Tips for Coordinating Bloom Times in Your Garden

The timing of your garden is much more complex than simply thinking about planting, growing, and harvesting seasons. You must also think about the lifecycle of the plants in your yard. With a bit of planning and ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2018

5 Excellent Plants for Your Natural Contemplative Garden

One of the best things about the outdoors is its ability to rejuvenate the human spirit. After a tough day at work or a difficult experience with a friend or family member, it’s nice to be able to get home to a tranquil ...

spring gardening

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2018

Spring is Coming: 4 Tips for the Beginning of Gardening Season

The arrival of March means we are just weeks away from consistently warm weather here in the Massachusetts area. While we’ll certainly see some colder days, it’s also time to start preparing for the spring season. ...

tomatoes vegetable garden

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2018

How to Plan Your Vegetable Garden in Massachusetts

Growing your own food has many benefits. Not only does it help you establish a more organic space in your yard, it allows you and your family to eat nutritious foods that are natural and healthy. But creating a thriving ...

prune small trees during winter

Judith Lipson- Rubin | February, 2018

4 Tips to Prepare Your Yard for Warmer Weather (While It's Still Cold)

4 Tips to Prepare Your Garden for Warmer Weather Think you can’t garden just because it’s cold outside? Think again! While you may not be able to put in the long, peaceful afternoons in the yard like you can in the ...

gardening soil care

Judith Lipson- Rubin | February, 2018

Soil Guide for Organic Gardening: How to Ensure Your Soil is Ready for Growth

Soil is the foundation for a great yard. Without the right soil, you’ll never be able to create a thriving outdoor environment that gives you relaxation, attracts beautiful wildlife, and supports the local habitat. Yet ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2018

What is Ecological Gardening? 3 Simple Ways to Create Environmentally Friendly Landscaping

If you’re in the process of creating a new landscaping plan and want a garden that is not only beautiful but good for the environment, you may be thinking about organic methods. There’s an entire movement focused on ...

Watering the garden

Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2018

4 Most Valuable Tips for Installing Drip Irrigation System

Water conservation is important: it helps preserve limited natural resources, conserves energy, and saves you money. A properly engineered drip irrigation system can give your plants the exact amount of water that they ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | December, 2017

Organic Gardening 101: Things Every Homeowner Should Know Before Day 1

Perhaps you just bought a new house and want to be sure you maintain your yard sustainably, or you want to transition to organic landscaping to reduce your environmental footprint. Before you start, read this guide to ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | December, 2017

First 5 Steps to Create an Organic Landscape

Organic landscaping may sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be — all you need is a good plan and the ability to stick to it. Once you’ve decided to start an organic landscaping project, these are the first five ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | November, 2017

How Safe is Your Lawn? Comparing Chemical & Non-Chemical Organic Lawn Products

Organic lawn care is not only better for your yard, it improves the environment and human health. But what are the differences between chemical and organic lawn care products? Is there ever a time to use chemical ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | November, 2017

Your Lawn Deserves the Best: 5 Great Reasons to Use Organic Fertilizer

Are you looking for the best possible fertilizer for your lawn and unsure what to pick? Wondering if investing in organic fertilizers are even worth it? Organic supplements and fertilizers are not only better for the ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | November, 2017

6 Best Practices of Organic Landscaping

We all know how important it is to take care of the planet, but you may be wondering what you can do to improve your practices. One easy step is to use organic landscaping methods. Adopting these habits is much simpler ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2017

Clever Ways to Use Stone in Your Landscape Project

Stones are a beautiful addition to any garden — they evoke a feeling of permanence and strength. By uniquely arranging rocks and boulders in your landscaping, you can enjoy not only the aesthetic benefits but also the ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2017

Doctor’s Orders: 6 Little Known Health Benefits of Gardening

Being outside, interacting with nature, and actively gardening are beneficial for both emotional and physical health. Simply being in nature can enliven your well-being, and is a welcome break from a sedentary workplace ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2017

Most Popular Meditation Garden Backyard Layouts and Designs

The way you design and plan your meditation garden is a matter of individual preference. There are many factors that may go into deciding how to create your own space to relax and unwind. Here are some features that ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2017

Landscape Water Features: Which is Best for Your Backyard?

Fountains, birdbaths, and ponds add a soothing and relaxing element to your landscaping — but they can be expensive and difficult to engineer. This short guide will give you an introduction to picking out the perfect ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | October, 2017

Make Time to Stop and Smell the Flowers: 8 Plants and Shrubs with Relaxing Scents

Picking the right plants for your gardens not only makes your landscaping look beautiful, they can add pleasurable, relaxing scents. Choosing flower smells you enjoy is important because they can have a positive effect ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2017

Do More Than Just Garden: 5 Tips for Creating a Relaxing & Remedial Landscape

Is your garden just a garden, or is it providing you with a place to escape and find rejuvenation? With some careful thought, you can create a beautiful place where you’ll find rest from a busy world. These five tips ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2017

3 Worthwhile Tips for Soundproofing Your Backyard Space

Living in a busy urban area often disrupts enjoyment of your backyard. The sounds of cars driving by and loud neighbors can interrupt socializing with friends or quiet, post-work meditative time. Fortunately, with some ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2017

How can my outdoor living space help the natural environment and assist in healing and relaxation?

Gardens are a great option for creating an area that is both soothing and good for the environment. When landscaping, you need to consider your personal preference and the effect the plants you choose will have on the ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2017

Top 4 Landscaping Tips for the Ever-Changing New England Climate

Creating vivacious landscape designs can be challenging, given New England’s intense four seasons. Massachusetts weather ranges from bitterly cold nights in the middle of winter to hot and humid summer days. This ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2017

Little Known Ways to Select Foundation Plantings You Will Love

Picking out the right permanent plants will give your landscapes great color throughout the year. They will complement your house and the flowers you chose for the rest of your garden. That’s why many considerations ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2017

3 Rules for an Effortless and Stress-free Landscape Project

After a busy day of work, you want to come home to a beautiful landscaped yard — without worrying about hours of weeding, pruning, fertilizing, and watering. How can you design a stress-free garden? These three rules ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2017

5 Fun and Creative Ways to Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal

The front of your house is the first thing that people see. What does yours say about you? Creating a warm entryway makes your house feel welcoming and gives a great first impression. A home with great curb appeal isn’t ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2017

5 Super Easy Ways to Create Privacy in Your Backyard

Entering your yard should feel like coming home to your own little sanctuary from the world. How can you do this naturally? A fence may seem like an easy solution, but there are other ways to give your backyard some ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2017

8 Questions to Ask About Backyard Landscape Designs

If you’re in the process of landscaping your property, you may not be sure where to start. You know hardscapes can add value to your home — but maybe you’re struggling to figure out exactly what features to include. ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2017

Entertaining on a Dime: 4 Party-Ready Outdoor Entertainment Design Ideas

Summer has come bringing warm afternoons, long evenings, and fireflies to add magic to the night. If you love to entertain you are probably wondering how to economically host your friends outdoors. With a little ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2017

5 Ways to Create a Kid-Friendly Outdoor Garden Space

Playing outdoors and learning to love nature are integral parts of growing up. Perhaps you have fond memories of playing whiffle ball with your siblings, going on neighborhood adventures with your dog, or rolling in the ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2017

Beginner’s Guide to Building the Outdoor Living Space of Your Dreams

You’ve spent time, money, and energy making your house a home. You’ve got the right furniture, the perfect paint colors, and the best setup for the kitchen, and now you're ready to tackle your outdoor living space. ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2017

How to Create a Budget for Your Landscape Project

Most people want to know that they are a vital part of their home improvement projects, even if they choose to hire professionals to carry out the heavy lifting. It is important for homeowners to understand what is ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2017

Native Perennials for Eastern Massachusetts

Two of our favorite native perennials to plant in Eastern Massachusetts are Kim's Knee High and Bridal Veil False Spirea. The Echinacea purpurea 'Kim's Knee High' is a compact version of Purple Coneflower. It is covered ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2017

6 Tips for Hiring a Professional Landscaper

Your garden is a reflection of your personality as well as the personality of your home, and it can be quite challenging to find a professional landscaper who can take your personality and translate it into an outdoor ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | November, 2016

Low Maintenance Gardens for Eastern Massachusetts

In Eastern MA, there are many different types of gardens that will grow and thrive, even in the finicky coastal MA weather. A few garden types you might want to consider planting are:

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2016

Patio Materials- Price of Pea Gravel Patios

More information on Patio Materials! The least expensive patio material to buy and install is pea gravel, also know as pea stone.

Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2016

Patio Materials- How Much Does a Paver Patio Cost?

PATIO MATERIALS- concrete PAVERS!

Judith Lipson- Rubin | May, 2016

Questions To Ask A Professional Landscape Designer

Are you looking for a new landscape design this season? All landscape design jobs- backyard designs, garden design plans, and front yard landscape designs, require a consultation with a professional landscape designer ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2016

Winter Safety Tip: How to Choose an Ice Melt?

Being from New England I have seen many snow and ice storms come through. It’s important to keep in mind both personal and public safety with winter weather. State workers and highway departments take care of snow ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2016

Perennials to Plant in Eastern Massachusetts

Many gardeners choose perennials to plant in their yards to add color and create a low maintenance garden space. Perennials are great because they have color that pops in the spring, summer, or fall, then die back for ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | September, 2015

What Are the Best Plants for Shade Gardens?

Are You Growing Plants in the Shade?

Judith Lipson- Rubin | March, 2014

Companion Planting with New England Native Plants

One of the best ways to create an ecological garden is by planting more native plants. Planting native plants enhances and supports your local ecosystem which has more benefits than we can imagine. When selecting plants ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2012

Another fragrant shrub- the Fothergilla plant

Add an early bloomer to your yard for next spring!

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | August, 2012

Ornamental Japanese Maple Tree for Your Garden

One of the most versatile trees for almost any garden in New England, Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) exists in a multitude of forms that provide an endless choice of colors, sizes, and shapes. The most recognizable ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | July, 2012

Red, White & Blue Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are one of the easiest shrubs to identify throughout Eastern Massachusetts. They are superb garden plants with an enormous diversity from evergreen climbers, to small deciduous trees with splendid masses of ...

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Judith Lipson- Rubin | January, 2012

Landscape Problems & Solutions (1 of 3): Urban Landscape Solutions

Welcome to the new blog series- Landscape Problems & Solutions!

Judith Lipson- Rubin | February, 2011

Look for the Early Signs of Spring in New England

February is halfway over!! This means it's time to start looking for early signs of spring! There is nothing I love more than looking out from my home office window and seeing a glimmer of hope for warm weather ...

Judith Lipson- Rubin | December, 2010

About Moodscapes LLC - Our Story!

Over the years, many close friends, colleagues, and clients have asked me, "Why Moodscapes?" I put together this brief explanation for our followers and hope everyone enjoys getting to know me better through this ...