Blog

Astronomical Timers

Astronomical timers are a great way to control your outdoor lights (or anything that operates based on constantly changing daylight) because you can enjoy the "set it and forget it" method.  With everyone's busy lifestyle easier is better.  Who has time to adjust a manual timer several times a year as the amount of daylight changes throughout the seasons?  Photocells are not a reliable option because an obstruction will cause them to fail.

Astronomical timers know the position of the sun based on the time of day in your exact location.  These timers get programmed to the geological area that they are being used in by zip code.  Once the current date and time is set, the timer knows when dawn and dusk are thanks to advanced technology.  Now all you need to do is set the desired on/off times based on dawn dusk, such as 30 minutes before or 45 minutes after, then you are done.  You can even program them based on the day of the week with multiple on/off settings.

These timers even have a built in, replaceable back up battery that will hold the settings for 90 days during power failure.  They can easily fit into a low voltage transformer box.  At Squeals Landscaping Inc. we include them with all Outdoor Low Voltage Lighting Systems.  With an astronomical timer you will always come home to an illuminated landscape after dark.

Keep Your Leaves Clear

Now that the weather has turned colder the leaves are falling.  It is important to keep fallen leaves off your lawn. While raking your lawn is a tedious task, it's important to maintain a healthy lawn.  Keeping leaves off the lawn...

Spotted Lanternfly-Invasive Species

In August, The U.S. Department of Agriculture confirmed the detection of spotted laternfly in Pontiac, Michigan.  Early detection allows containment which is vital to prevent the spread. What to look for: Eggs of the spotted laternfly...

Invasive Beech Leaf Disease

Recently the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has confirmed a case of invasive beech leaf disease in St. Clair County. The disease has not been present in Michigan before.  It is associated with the microscopic worm,...

Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass

There is a new trend for homeowners.  Installing synthetic grass at their homes instead of natural grass.  There are pros and cons to consider when making this decision. Pros: Pet Friendly Good for water conservation. Free of...

It's Time to Turn On Your Irrigation System

It looks like warmer weather is finally here!  With sunny days, warm temperatures, and drier air you need to make sure your sprinkler system is turned on and working properly.  Irrigation companies are busy so be sure to call...

Buying at Big Box Stores

Bulk trees and plants at low prices, so tempting but buyer beware.  Finally, the temps are rising and the sun is shining!  It's time to get your yard in order.  While out shopping at some of the big box stores you'll often see...

Hardscape Design Trends

Over the last few years we have seen a strong shift in brick paving and hardscape design trends.  In the past, curves and radiuses were often the focal point and highlight of patios and walkways.  The construction process was fairly simple...

Sprinkler Winterization

A friendly reminder that this is the time to begin winterizing your sprinkler system!  This is standard maintenance and needs to be done to protect your sprinkler system during the freezing temperatures in the winter months.  This...

When To Use Landscape Fabric

Customers often request to have landscape fabric installed under mulch to help prevent weeds.  This is not an acceptable industry weed prevention method for mulch beds. Mulch is a wood product that will deteriorate and decompose. ...

Knockout Roses

Knockout Roses are one of the easiest plants to grow and provide color to your landscape.  Their bloom cycle is approximately every 5-6 weeks.  You can almost plant them and forget them. They are known as the self-cleaning rose, so there...

Plant Terminology & Definitions

When choosing a new landscape project that includes plant material, there are many common terms that sound similar but have different meanings.  Here is a list of the most common words you'll likely hear while planning your...

Proper Mulching Techniques

When creating a new landscape project mulch is commonly used to complete the look around trees and in beds.  Mulch is beneficial because when placed over soil it maintains moisture and improves soil conditions.  It is important to install...

COVID-19 Update

It's hard to believe that we are all still experiencing restrictions from COVID-19.  Thankfully, all of us here at Squeals Landscaping Inc. are healthy and production is in full swing!  We are taking all recommended precautions to...

Oak Wilt: What You Need To Know

Oak Wilt is an exotic, invasive, lethal, fungal disease that effects Red and White Oak trees.  It clogs the water conducting vessels of the Oak trees that are infected.  They then wilt and die.   Red Oaks are more susceptible...

85 Degrees = Extra Water

When the temperatures rise into the 80's plants require extra water because the ground moisture evaporates quickly.  Any type of flowering plant will quickly begin showing signs of stress in very warm conditions.  If there is little to...

Credit Cards

The credit card world has changed for vendors because of all the perks credit card companies must give customers to stay competitive.  This industry movement has resulted in skyrocketing merchant fees.  The brutal gas station market began...

Lawn Fertilizer

Customers often ask us what type of fertilizer they should buy for their new home landscape we installed.  The answer is always the same.  At Squeals Landscaping Inc. we recommend all homeowners use a local professional lawn fertilization...

Brick Repair Jobs

Every season we get daily calls for brick repair projects.  While there is a huge demand for existing hardscape corrections, it is mot a service we offer.  There are several reasons we have this policy.  In the past we have fixed...

COVID-19 Update

Through these tough times we are following protocol and practicing social distancing to the fullest. .  Due to the recent "Stay Home Stay Safe" executive order by Governor Whitmer we have temporarily closed our facility.  The...
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Five Star Rating!
Squeals does exemplary work. We hired them to do pavers for our driveway and we continue to admire the exquisite work. The owner, David Biel, has honor and integrity. He stands behind his work, and his pride in his company is always apparent. Since our driveway was completed, I have hired Squeals for two additional jobs, and referred them to several of our friends. Nobody is disappointed. They demonstrate excellent workmanship and they stand behind their work - customer service is unparalleled.* Gigi W. | Read More Testimonials
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