posts by Miriam Hellweg

Below are blog posts by Miriam Hellweg. Not what you're looking for? Use the site navigation to learn more about a Blade of Grass and our landscaping services.

Wellesley, MA - A sweeping row of mature, tightly clipped boxwoods creates a strong curved border around a lawn in a Wellesley landscape.

Wellesley, MA – Why Are My Boxwoods Turning Brown? Is It Boxwood Blight?

Brown boxwoods don’t always mean boxwood blight. Learn what we look for when diagnosing boxwood decline in Massachusetts landscapes.

Japanese barberry is an invasive Massachusetts shrub that can spread into natural areas and crowd out native plants.

12 Invasive Plants Commonly Found in Massachusetts Landscapes and What to Plant Instead

Many invasive plants found on Massachusetts properties were once installed for privacy, fall color, or easy care. Learn how to identify 12 common species and consider better alternatives for a more resilient landscape.

Arborvitae screening along the roadway reduces traffic views and noise while creating a calmer, more enclosed yard.

Landscape Design for Homes on Busy Roads: Privacy, Curb Appeal, and a Calmer Front Yard

Homes on busy roads need more than a quick hedge or fence. Learn how thoughtful landscape design can improve privacy, curb appeal, safety, sound, lighting, drainage, and outdoor living for Greater Boston, MetroWest, and Cape Cod properties.

Wellesley, MA - A thoughtfully designed landscape with stone terraces, lawn, layered plantings, and inviting outdoor living spaces.

Needham, MA – Where Should I Start With Landscape Design for My Property?

Not sure where to begin with your landscape? Our expert explains when a focused project makes sense, when to create a master plan, and how to phase improvements without costly rework.

A traditional fieldstone wall anchors the front yard, its weathered texture and warm tones complemented by neatly shaped shrubs and hedges that reinforce symmetry and provide year-round structure near the home.

The Landscape Assessment: What a Designer Sees That Homeowners Often Miss

A landscape assessment helps homeowners understand what is really shaping their property, from grading and drainage to planting, hardscape, lighting, irrigation, and maintenance. Learn what a designer looks for before recommending the right next step.

Healthy soil is the foundation of a thriving planting plan, helping new gardens establish strong roots, support long-term plant health, and adapt to site conditions over time.

Soil Testing Before Planting: Why It Matters in Boston-Area Landscape Design

Healthy plants begin below the surface, where soil texture, drainage, pH, nutrients, and compaction shape long-term performance. Before new plantings, lawns, hedges, or garden beds are designed, a soil test can reveal what roots need to thrive and help Boston-area homeowners make smarter, more resilient landscape choices.

Summer garden party setting with an outdoor dining table surrounded by lush seasonal plantings and a well-maintained residential landscape.

8 Tips to Prepare Your Garden for a Summer Party

Get your yard party-ready with 8 simple landscaping tips—from power washing to planters, lighting, and pest control—for a backyard that’s beautiful, festive, and guest-friendly.

Residential landscape with a swimming pool, spa, stone patio, hydrangeas, outdoor seating, and integrated landscape lighting beside the home.

What Does It Mean for a Landscape Company to Be Design/Build?

A design/build landscape firm brings planning and construction into one coordinated process. Learn how this approach can help Boston-area homeowners reduce handoff issues, protect design intent, and create a more cohesive outdoor space.

How to Design a Low-Maintenance Garden in Boston

Low-maintenance does not mean no-maintenance. Learn how Boston-area homeowners can create a refined, resilient garden with thoughtful plant selection, mature spacing, soil preparation, irrigation, mulch, and seasonal care.

Snowplow clearing a residential driveway at night during a winter storm, with holiday lights illuminating the snowy landscape.

Navigate Winter with Ease Using a Liquid De-icer

Liquid de-icers offer a more effective alternative to traditional rock salt. This guide explains how proactive ice control improves safety, reduces damage to hardscapes and plantings, and supports smarter winter property maintenance, with a focus on New England conditions.

posts by Miriam Hellweg

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