This is an example of a total landscape design implementation by Tennessee Tree & Landscape Company...

IDEA:

To create privacy, not to disturb the ecological balance of the property or stream--to clean up, clear away debris allowing older 'stately' trees to remain to create their own area.

Before: Customer Cynthia Bohn & Sue Hyde had a stream at the rear of their property. Many problems; total overgrowth of saplings, diseased trees, wash-wag/creek debris. Site was an eyesore for the customer. Saplings, overgrowth and debris was cleared away. Stumps were removed, topsoil added. This particular job was a bit more difficult due to the tremendous overgrowth around the stream. Erosion material was applied over the topsoil.

Honeysuckle clumps remained at the edge of the stream to aid in holding the bank during high waters. Both banks were covered with topsoil and then overseeded with a mixture of shade tolerant fescue and winter rye. The growth you see here is after only the second overseeding.

The trees we left provided enough shade but not too much in order for the grass to maintain a sturdy root system. Also, the undergrowth & saplings removed made way for the older more mature trees to flourish & breathe.

Next a shade tolerant bed of flowering & non-flowering plants was added to the hillside underneath the trees with a standard rock edge...

Last a rock step/walkway was added leading down one corner of the hillside leading to the stream.

The End Result:

A private garden for entertaining complete with a natural water centerpiece. Rustic but relaxing, adding to the property value and not disturbing the delicate ecosystem of the nearby stream.