Landscaping companies might throw around the terms “hardscaping” and “softscaping” often, but do you know what they mean? They are often used interchangeably but, in reality, are quite different.

Landscape
This term refers to virtually everything on your property; softscaping and hardscaping included. For this reason, landscape companies typically specialize in both softscaping and hardscaping as well. Landscape might encompass a couple of planting beds or large retaining walls, a deck with plants, or more.

Softscape
Grass, shrubs, trees, mulch, flowers, etc., are all considered softscape materials. Softscape designs are generally used to accentuate any hardscaping features on the premises. The organic compounds that can easily be ripped out of the earth, trimmed, or need regular watering are categorized as softscapes.

Hardscape
While softscape includes organic compounds, hardscape is the opposite: inorganic material that is usually built by a contractor and/or has a long lifespan. Common hardscape examples include patios, walkways, outdoor lighting, driveways, outdoor kitchens, retaining walls, and more. Whether the designs are functional or decorative, hardscapes are made from concrete, flagstone, stone, brick, plastic, wood, etc., and can sometimes even have electronic components.

Don’t let the cold temperatures fool you – spring is right around the corner! Think ahead and start planning your commercial landscape now.

Let the experts at T&T Property Maintenance help you design the ultimate commercial landscape using softscaping and hardscaping to suit your needs. Contact us today to learn more.

T&T Property Maintenance has been visualizing, creating, and maintaining commercial properties since 1997. We offer a vast number of services for our clients, including lawn and landscape maintenance, irrigation set up and repair, fertilization, weed and pest control, snow plowing and salting, and tree trimming and stump grinding. We are licensed with the Michigan Department of Agriculture, so you can rest assured we will do the job right – every time. We work with commercial businesses of any size and offer our services in seasonal or yearly packages, and a la carte. For over 20 years, we believe a satisfied customer is the only kind of customer. Check out our website, call, or e-mail us today to learn more.

Written by the digital marketing staff at Creative Programs & Systems: www.cpsmi.com.