Chris_20Hopkins

The One Stop Shop For All Your Outdoor Needs

“We work with clients to create a customized outdoor living space that fits their lifestyle so they can enjoy quality time with family and friends,” said Chris Hopkins, co-founder of Greenleaf Landscaping. A lifelong MetroWest resident, Hopkins brings his 30 years of experience in the industry to Greenleaf. He started as a boy, gardening alongside his mother in his hometown of Wayland. One of his first jobs was for a friend mowing lawns and spreading mulch. Hopkins eventually started his own business when he bought a truck for plowing and went door to door to sign on 28 clients the first year. Realizing how much he enjoyed working outdoors, he stuck with the career and over time, hired employees, took on a partner, expanded into other facets, and built a successful business. 
 
After his first partner moved on, Hopkins teamed up with Roger Martin to form Greenleaf Landscaping. Hopkins and Martin had first known each other as friends. They share similar interests and values when it comes to business. Roger was working on a home renovation project when he asked Chris to bid on a masonry project and a business relationship was formed. In the spring of 2023, they founded Greenleaf.

Greenleaf offers a broad range of services, from lawn mowing, property maintenance, irrigation, tree work, plant preservation, to snow removal. The company sets itself apart by also performing hardscaping – paver pool decks, stone walls, patios, and walkways. They also build and expand decks and install pergolas and accent lighting – things that really beautify a yard and welcome people to spend time with friends and family. “People have been saying they don’t need to go away to relax or have a good time when they have a nice pool or deck in their backyard,” said Hopkins. “So instead of going on vacations, people are investing in improving their outdoor living space. It’s been a more recent trend. 

“Roger’s background in construction is especially helpful with the building aspects of the work and with coordinating the projects from conception to completion. It’s great having a partner to bounce ideas off of and make decisions with.” 

Because Greenleaf is a full-service provider for outdoor living spaces, clients don’t have to worry about all the things that need to be coordinated. “For example,” said Hopkins, “before installing the pool deck, outdoor kitchen, or pool house, we start with all the work that can’t be seen such as drainage, electrical, and plumbing. As another example, people will focus on selecting pavers or natural stone they like but we also make sure they have the appropriate base material so the final product lasts for years to come. 
 
“Even for the basic maintenance, having expertise that comes from years in the business provides a real benefit. We make sure their irrigation is adjusted properly for the time of year. We discourage excessive watering through automatic sprinklers, which is especially important in the hot months. Deep root growth is essential for the long-term health of turf and plants. By avoiding frequent, shallow watering, root development increases, and reduces water consumption. In the fall, we provide core aeration to allow water and fertilizer to penetrate and keep the grass healthy.”
As client Jack Fuller of Natick said, “Greenleaf was professional and had great communication throughout the project, and the results speak for themselves! Our landscaping has been the envy of the neighborhood.”

“We really like serving the community,” said Hopkins. “In the past, I’ve had a lot of clients in Ashland, so I know the town very well and enjoy working there.”
 
To talk with Greenleaf about your landscaping and hardscaping needs, email MyGreenleafLandscaper@gmail.com or call 508-358-4231.
 
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Discover when and how to install plantings in your yard

Summer has come to an end and fall is officially here. When is the best time to install new plantings? In the spring or fall? There is no simple answer, but by evaluating your needs you can make an educated decision based on several factors.

Where and why-

You’re looking through your favorite gardening magazine and you come across a plant you are not familiar with. It seems like it would be the perfect fit for an open space you are looking to fill in. When we are looking at what to install in our garden we often focus on color and texture. While those are key factors, there are other things we need to consider as well. One of the most important factors is the hardiness zone (Natick MA. 6a and 6b) (Ashland 6a) and why selecting a plant from your zone is so important as well as other characteristics to keep an eye out for. Before choosing a plant, you must consider wind, soil condition, sunlight, drainage, soil PH, and nutrient availability. It is also important to factor in what size space you want the plant to fill, maintenance needs, pest resistance and functionality. If you want a perennial, shrub, or tree to survive, it must tolerate year-round conditions in your area. Plants with no significant pest problems, drought tolerance, and beauty in at least two seasons are top of the list. 

How-

Once you have selected a plant, it is important to install it properly. Improper planting, particularly planted too low, or too high are found to be major causes of tree mortality in managed landscapes. When planting the hole for the new plant it should be 2-3 times the size of the root ball and the root ball itself should be installed on undisturbed ground. While backfilling with native soil, the plant should be watered when halfway through, the water should be allowed to drain and rewater when backfilling is complete. In some situations, you will want to mix in some peat moss or compost. Once the plant is installed it is important to keep a proper watering regimen based on existing weather conditions.

When-

Planting broadleaf evergreen shrubs in the fall might be better avoided until spring planting is possible. Mostly because they need more time to prepare for winter sun and strong winds. The stress of these elements can be extremely hard on the plants. When planting evergreens, you want to make sure they are installed by mid-October, ideally six weeks before the ground freezes, and you want to be careful not to disturb the root ball to give your new planting the best chance to survive. Deciduous plants on the other hand can be installed if the ground is workable. Warm air in the fall and damp soil conditions promote vigorous root growth. Select trees and bushes are considered a fall dig hazard and should only be installed in the spring. 

Information provided by Chris Hopkins, Greenleaf Landscaping LLC — experts at fall lawn care. And for more information on any of these topics, contact Greenleaf today. Talk to Greenleaf today: 774-421-9570. 

 

In the Natick Town News

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Are you ready for another New England winter?

It’s true what they say around here: “If you don’t like the weather, wait a minute.” In just 30 days we’ve gone from a sunny, 75° to a damp, and bone-chilling 35°— New England weather at its finest. And AccuWeather just predicted the El Niño will make this winter a snowy one. Get your shovels ready!

How can you make sure you’re ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store this winter? Here’s some tips
 
1) Winterize all outside pipes 
When temperatures drop below 32° F outside faucets, sprinkler heads, and irrigation lines will freeze and burst if they aren’t winterized. Make sure to turn off all water at the mains inside the house then open faucets to let water in the pipe drain out. Irrigation systems require a professional, so make sure you make an appointment for winterization well before the first frost.
 
2) Get gutters cleaned
This summer’s rain brought a ton of leaves, sticks, and other yard waste down on roofs. Chances are, that debris is now in your gutters. Left in place all that debris is a recipe for disaster as it freezes into an icy mass. That can get under shingles, damage your roof and cause ice dams. Clear gutters so rain and snow can drain. If you’re not comfortable on a ladder it’s worth talking to a professional. Act now to avoid costly repairs in the future.
 
3) Prune, mulch, and protect perennials 
Time to get the clippers out. Most of your perennials should have died back. Cut back the vegetation to 2 – 3 inches above the ground. It makes your garden look nice and neat, and it stops harmful insects from making a home. Want your evergreens to stay greener all year round? Now is the time to feed and protect them from harsh winds and colder temperatures. Add some mulch around the base to protect roots from freezing temperatures and any winter salt runoff. And consider burlap wraps to protect your evergreen investment. Winter burn can wreak havoc on tender evergreen leaves.
 
4) Trim trees and bushes 
Take a good look at your trees and shrubs. Look for large limbs overhanging your roof line, power or utility lines. A Nor’easter’s high winds and heavy snow can bring down branches and cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to roofs, porches, or siding. Plus, regular pruning encourages healthy spring growth and prevents disease and insect infestations. If you’re not sure what should go and what can stay, consult an Arborist. 
 
5) Repair paths and pavers
The winter’s freeze and thaw can turn a loose patio or paving stone into an accident waiting to happen. Frost heaves can trip even the most seasoned New Englander. Get loose stones reset by a mason before the frost starts.
 
Information provided by Chris Hopkins, Greenleaf Landscaping LLC — with 30 years experience building everything from fire pits and pergolas to pools and outdoor kitchen/entertaining space Talk to Greenleaf today: 774-421-9570 
 
 
 
A flower garden in the backyard in the summer.

Want the best lawn in the neighborhood? Here’s 5 simple steps.

Hard to believe Labor Day is just around the corner. For anyone interested in a full, lush, stunning carpet of green grass next spring, you need to work on your lawn now.

After a water-logged summer good lawn care is critical. While 2023 wasn’t the rainiest summer on record, NOAA puts the rain gauge at 15.44 inches. So how can you get your lawn in peak condition now, so it comes back better than ever next spring? 

Here’s 5 simple steps that you can follow:

1) Take stock — how’s your lawn holding up? One way to find out: walk your entire lawn. Look closely. Sure, all that rain brought-out the green, but you need to check for problem areas, too. Are there brown or “dead” spots? And look for threadlike or powdery coatings on grass blades — that’s fungus. Fungus won’t go away by itself. Left untreated it will spread, destroying years of hard work. Lawn health is critical going into to fall.

2) “Feed Me Seymour” — your lawn has been on a liquid diet, all summer. When grass takes up water, it takes up all the soil nutrients, too. The more it rains, the faster nitrogen is used up. An under nourished lawn is susceptible to disease. Good lawn nutrition makes all the difference. And now is the time to feed your lawn. In some cases, new lawns require Phosphorus for new root growth. But nitrogen is the go-to for promoting grass growth all the way into fall. 

3) Do a quick chemistry check — what’s your lawns pH? You may need a soil amendment, like lime or compost. Heavy rainfall dissipates calcium in the soil making for more acidic conditions (not a great environment for any living thing). That’s why September is lime time. Test your soil to determine if you need less acidic/more alkaline.

4) Let it breathe — aerating your lawn is critical after a summer of heavy rain. Aeration punches small holes into your soil allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the grass roots. Aerating creates space between soil particles for essential nutrients like nitrogen to reach grass’ roots. Aeration is one of the most important steps to maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. 

5)  You can’t have too much of a good thing — Overseeding involves spreading fresh grass seed over your existing lawn. It’s a great way to patch bare spots and establish new growth. Overseeded areas “green up” fast because there’s already an established grass root system there ready for germination. And consider planting different varieties of grass seed for a thicker, disease resistant lawn.

Information provided by Chris Hopkins, Greenleaf Landscaping LLC — experts at fall lawn care. And for more information on any of these topics, contact Greenleaf today. Talk to Greenleaf today: 774-421-9570.

 

In The Natick Town News

Woman using a leaf blower in the autumn to clear her driveway.

Make Sure You’re Set for the Season

Recent New England winters have become famous for their temperature fluctuations – but it’s still good to have your outdoor space set for whatever Mother Nature brings. 

Here are some tips: 

1) Yard clean up — allowing leaves and yard waste to sit on lawns and flowerbeds inhibits spring growth and can allow disease to take hold. It’s time to get your yard pristine for the dormant season. Plus, with unwanted critters looking for winter nests, you need to keep the leaf piles to a minimum. Store yard furniture under cover or in the garage so your space is clear for snow and ice removal.

2) Tree and shrub pruning — Trees and shrubs represent a big financial investment. Protect that investment with regular maintenance. Broken or damaged branches are an obvious place to start, but trees require pruning every 1-2 years for proper structure and growth. And if your tree is within 10 feet of utility lines or from your house, it absolutely needs to be pruned regularly.

3) Winter lawn care — Yes, lawns are dormant right now, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t benefit from some TLC. Keeping your lawn free from leaves and other yard debris discourages disease and pests when the weather starts to warm. And less lawn debris keeps the grass dryer and prevents snow mold build-up. Plus some types of weeds: chickweed, henbit, and shepherd’s purse, actually thrive in the cold and begin their germination in early winter. 

4) Protect plants & evergreens — Want your evergreens to stay greener all year round? You need to protect them from New England’s harsh winds and colder temperatures. If you have flower or vegetable beds protect the topsoil with mulch. Consider tying up small tree branches for extra support against heavy snow loads and covering plants with burlap to protect them from woodland creatures and winter burn.

5) Check all sprinkler systems are winterized — sprinkler heads and irrigation lines can freeze and burst if they aren’t winterized. 

6) Gutter cleaning and pressure washing — Our homes took a beating this summer. Gutters and siding need regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew. Plus, freezing winter months can turn debris into ice dams so act now to avoid costly repairs in the future.

7) Celebrate the season — chase away the winter chill with holiday lights and festive garlands. Hanging lights throughout your garden turns bare, leafless trees into magical wonders you can enjoy all year. Make sure you get help hanging anything on the higher  branches.  

Information provided by Chris Hopkins, Greenleaf Landscaping LLC — with 30 years’ experience building everything from fire pits and pergolas to pools and outdoor kitchen/entertaining space Talk to Greenleaf today: 774-421-9570 

 

In the Natick Town News

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5 Simple Steps To Keep your Lawn in Peak Condition

1) Take stock — how’s your lawn holding up this season? One way to find out: walk your entire lawn. Look closely. Sure, all that rain brought-out the green, but you need to check for problem areas, too. Are there brown or “dead” spots? And look for threadlike or powdery coatings on grass blades — that’s fungus. Fungus won’t go away by itself. Left untreated it will spread, destroying years of hard work. Lawn health is critical going into to fall.

 

2) “Feed Me Seymour” — If it’s been raining a lot your lawn has been on a liquid diet. When grass takes up water, it takes up all the soil nutrients, too. The more it rains, the faster nitrogen is used up. An under nourished lawn is susceptible to disease. Good lawn nutrition makes all the difference. And now is the time to feed your lawn. In some cases, new lawns require Phosphorus for new root growth. But Nitrogen is the go-to for promoting grass growth all the way into Fall. 

 

3) Do a quick chemistry check — what’s your lawns PH? You may need a soil amendment, like lime or compost. Heavy rainfall dissipates Calcium in the soil making for more acidic conditions (not a great environment for any living thing). That’s why September is lime time. Talk to us about testing your soil to determine if you need less acidic/more alkaline.

 

4) Let it breathe — aerating your lawn is critical. Your lawn needs it particularly after a summer of heavy rain. Our professional aeration service punches small holes into your soil allowing air, water, and nutrients to reach the grass roots. Aerating creates space between soil particles for essential nutrients like nitrogen to reach grass’ roots. Aeration is one of the most important steps to maintaining a lush, healthy lawn. 


5)  You can’t have too much of a good thing — Overseeding involves spreading fresh grass seed over your existing lawn. We highly recommend it for the fall. It’s a great way to patch bare spots and establish new growth. Overseeded areas “green up” fast because there’s already an established grass root system there ready for germination. And consider planting different varieties of grass seed for a thicker, disease resistant lawn.

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Choosing a rock-solid hardscaping company

Choosing the right landscaping company for any hardscaping project can be very confusing. There’s online reviews, Google search, and advertising. But how can you tell the genuine and reliable companies from the less reputable options? Here are a few tips for finding the company that will make your vision for an outdoor living space a reality:

  • Read online reviews: Using trusted review sites can help give you an idea of exactly what you’re going to get when it comes to finding a provider 

  • Ask for references and contact at least three of the options you get. If you don’t get a glowing review from everyone you reach don’t proceed with that vendor.

  • Hire an expert. Hardscaping is a broad area with lots of different specialties. Make sure the team you hire has proven examples of the project you want done.

  • If the cost seems too good to be true…it usually is. Ask for estimates. Compare at least three. Costs can range wildly: But have a budget in mind and discuss it with your hardscaper. You want to choose a company that offers quality services at affordable rates. And don’t be tempted to cut corners on material costs. Remember you want your hardscaping to last for the long hall.

  • Choose a local team. They know all about your town’s building codes, and how to build a beautiful hardscape for your particular area with materials that work best in your region. Plus you’ll save money on transportation costs.

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Make sure you’re set for the season

Recent New England winters have become famous for their temperature fluctuations – but it’s still good to have your outdoor space set for whatever Mother Nature brings our way. Here are some tips:

1) Yard clean up — allowing leaves and yard waste to sit on lawns and flowerbeds inhibits spring growth and can allow disease to take hold. It’s time to get your yard pristine for the dormant season. Plus, with unwanted critters looking for winter nests, you need to keep the leaf piles to a minimum. Store yard furniture under cover or in the garage so your space is free for snow and ice removal.

2) Tree and shrub pruning — Trees and shrubs represent a big financial investment. Protect that investment with regular maintenance. Broken or damaged branches are an obvious place to start, but trees require pruning every 1-2 years for proper structure and growth. And if your tree is within 10 feet of utility lines it absolutely needs to be pruned regularly.

3) Winter lawn care — Yes, lawns are dormant right now, but that doesn’t mean they couldn’t benefit from some TLC. Keeping your lawn free from leaves and other yard debris discourages disease and pests when the weather starts to warm. And less lawn debris keeps the grass dryer and prevents snow mold build-up. Plus some types of weeds: chickweed, henbit, and shepherd’s purse, actually thrive in the cold and begin their germination in early winter.

4) Protect plants & evergreens — Want your evergreens to stay greener all year round? You need to protect them from New England’s harsh winds and colder temperatures. If you have flower or vegetable beds protect the topsoil with mulch. Consider covering plants in high road salt spray areas with burlap.

5) Check all sprinkler systems are winterized — sprinkler heads and irrigation lines can freeze and burst if they aren’t winterized.

6) Gutter cleaning and pressure washing — Our homes took a beating this summer. Gutters and siding need regular cleaning to prevent mold and mildew. Plus, freezing winter months can turn debris into ice dams so act now to avoid costly repairs in the future.

7) Celebrate the season — chase away the winter chill with holiday lights and festive garlands. Hanging lights throughout your garden turns bare, leafless trees into magical wonders you can enjoy all year. Make sure you get help hanging anything on the higher  branches.  

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Tips for building your dream outdoor living space

1) Ask questions

When you look at the green space you want to transform ask “what do I want from this space” — to entertain, relax, let kids and pets play freely, grow fruit or vegetables, or host cozy gatherings…a green space can do many things, but it helps to prioritize. What’s the primary use and what’s a “nice to have”?

2) Talk to friends, neighbors, and the pros

Ask friends or neighbors about outdoor spaces you admire. Talk about the process, how their plans evolved as they built. Don’t be afraid to ask about what they’d do differently. Then talk to the National Remodeling Industry Association in your area for do’s and don’ts. Remember, building an outdoor greenspace is just like renovating a space in your house —it should include planning and might require town permits.

3) Create an idea board

Outdoor living spaces come in all shapes and sizes. Before you finalize your plans, it helps to know exactly what you want — not just how the space will be used, but what style you want. Think English country garden vs modern minimalist. Do some research online and save images of green spaces you like. Social media is a great place to brainstorm and create a Pinterest board.

4) Set a budget

Finalizing your budget will keep your project on track. The last two years have seen prices go up. So, when you talk to friends or neighbors about recent projects ask them about their final cost. You’ll find the estimate and the final total may vairy based on how the project evolved during the build. Remember a change in the original design or a problem uncovered means a change in price. Allow a 15% to 20% buffer (over and above your budget) just in case of hick-ups. And don’t be tempted to use a lowball price as it will probably involve cutting corners or worse.

5) Work with a professional

You’ve got your vision and a rough budget, now you can talk to a professional landscape contractor.

Here are some questions you’ll want to ask before hiring:

• Have they completed a project like yours—size and budget?

• References— can you talk to previous clients or suppliers?

• How long have they been in business?

• Discuss contract details, including: payment schedule; proof of liability insurance and worker’s compensation payments; a start date and projected completion date. Good contracts insure no misunderstandings.

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Transforming Spaces: Before and After Pool & Patio Makeovers

In the realm of landscaping, transforming outdoor living areas into beautiful, functional spaces is an art. Today, we dive into the world of pool and patio makeovers, showcasing our approach to planning, executing, and delivering breathtaking transformations that adhere strictly to timelines and budgets.

Planning: The Blueprint of Success

Every stunning makeover begins with meticulous planning. Understanding the client’s vision is paramount. We start with an in-depth consultation to capture your dreams for the outdoor space – whether it’s a serene poolside retreat for relaxation or a chic patio for entertaining. Armed with your vision, our design team drafts a comprehensive plan, incorporating aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

Key to our planning process is the integration of your existing landscape and architecture. We aim to enhance not just the pool or patio but to ensure it harmonizes with the surrounding environment. From selecting materials that complement your home’s exterior to choosing plants that will flourish in your garden, every detail is considered.

Execution: Swift and Seamless

Recognizing the inconvenience construction can bring to daily life, our team is committed to efficiency. We coordinate every phase of the construction process to minimize disruption. Our seasoned project managers ensure that each task is executed swiftly, without compromising on quality. From excavation to laying down the last paver, our experienced crews work diligently, keeping the worksite orderly and safe.

Our commitment to staying on schedule is matched by our dedication to quality. We employ the latest techniques and materials to ensure your pool and patio not only look stunning but are built to last. Regular updates and clear communication keep you informed and involved at every stage, providing peace of mind.

Budget: Predictable and Transparent

Financial predictability is crucial. Our initial planning phase includes a detailed budget, outlining all costs upfront. This transparency ensures there are no surprises. We work hard to maximize value, selecting materials and designs that meet your budget without sacrificing aesthetics or quality.

Our on-budget promise is supported by rigorous project management. We monitor expenses closely, making adjustments as needed to stay within your financial plan. Our clients appreciate this financial integrity, knowing their investment is managed wisely.

Before and After: The Magic Unveiled

The true testament to our process is in the transformation. Before-and-after photos of our projects tell a story of spaces reborn. A once underutilized yard becomes a vibrant poolside oasis, inviting relaxation under the sun. A bland patio transforms into a lively outdoor living room, perfect for gatherings under the stars.

These makeovers are not just about enhancing beauty; they’re about creating spaces that resonate with our clients’ lifestyles. The joy of a family enjoying their new pool or the pride of homeowners entertaining friends on their renovated patio is our ultimate reward.

In Conclusion

At [Your Company], we understand that a pool and patio makeover is more than a construction project; it’s a dream being realized. Our approach to planning, executing, and managing budgets is designed to bring your vision to life with minimal stress and maximum satisfaction. Let us transform your outdoor space into a place of beauty, relaxation, and joy, proving that with the right partner, your dream landscape is within reach.

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