Blog
Climate change and your landscape
When we started In Harmony in 1986, no one was talking about climate change. In recent years, it is hard not to talk about it. Climate change is having big impacts on our landscapes. We need to learn to deal with the changing reality.
Soil health: how ideas have changed over 25 years
During our 25 years in business, ideas about soil health have changed from focusing on chemistry to focusing on biology. Earthworms and a variety of smaller critters play key roles in soil health.
Our yard care services use local, organic products
Our natural lawn, tree and shrub care services have always used organic products to build soil health. We choose a variety of products that feed soil microorganisms. These tiny critters work to keep plants healthy. What we use We are now using Hendrikus fertilizer...
Soil is alive
At In Harmony, we talk a lot about building healthy soil. But what does that mean? Take a moment to consider: soil is alive. It is not just the dirt under your fingernails. Soil is teeming with tiny critters that work to keep plants healthy. Unfortunately, many urban...
Add mulch now to reduce summer water needs
A thick layer of mulch is an effective way to reduce your plants’ water needs. A few inches of mulch insulates the soil and helps to keep it from drying out. As our summers get hotter and drier, mulch is increasingly important to help keep your plants and trees from...
It’s time to think about watering; check out our watering resources
Spring is a good time to think about how much water your plants will need this growing season and how you will provide it. Our watering resources will help you water properly to keep your plants healthy. Last year we had very little rain in May and June. Some plants...
Helping birds, bees and wildlife in your landscape
During this harsh winter weather, you may think about our wild friends. Birds, wildlife, native bees and other pollinators may have a hard time finding food, water and shelter. If you have a bird feeder, make sure it has plenty of food. In Harmony has always valued...
Winter pruning helps trees and shrubs stay healthy
This is a great time of year to take a close look at your trees and shrubs. Now that deciduous plants have lost their leaves, you can better see their shape and branches. Perhaps you have a plant that is growing too densely. There may be branches that are dead or...
Compost tea boosts garden health
Our compost tea brewers are up and running. Soon we will begin spraying compost tea on our clients’ landscapes as part of our natural tree and shrub care service. Our clients tell us that they have seen healthier plants, more flowers and less disease. We...
Spider mites? Water is key!
We have written a number of blog posts this year about how important water is to the health of your plants. Spider mites are one more example of why plants need enough water. Our summer’s hot, dry weather is hard on your plants. It is easy for them to get drought...
Tips for growing roses in western Washington
Roses are in bloom right now in Seattle. Many people love the beauty and fragrance of roses. But growing roses in western Washington can be challenging. Our moist, cool weather is ideal for diseases such as black spot, rust and powdery mildew. Roses are...
Give your plant a good start: how to plant and water it
Did you buy new plants at a spring plant sale or your local nursery? Here are tips on how to plant it and water it, so it gets off to a good start. Share this...
Smart watering: how much, when and how long to water
Our current warm, sunny weather is the beginning of the dry season. Your plants will need water throughout the summer. Here are some tips on smart ways to water. Water slowly and deeply for healthy plants. The best practice is to water deeply and less often. Shallow,...
