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Frequently asked questions

Landscaping, Sod & Xeriscape FAQ

78 answers to the questions San Angelo homeowners and businesses ask us most, from sod and grass types to xeriscape, irrigation, pricing and scheduling.

Tree set in a decorative rock bed at a commercial entrance

Sod & Grass

How much does sod installation cost in San Angelo?

Sod is usually priced per square foot, and the total depends on the grass variety, the size of the area, how much grading and soil prep it needs, removal of old turf, delivery and whether irrigation needs adjusting. We measure the yard and give you a written estimate at no charge.

What is the best grass for San Angelo?

It depends on sun and use. Bermuda handles full sun, heat, drought and heavy traffic. St. Augustine is the usual pick for yards with some shade. Zoysia makes a dense, soft lawn with moderate shade tolerance. Buffalograss uses the least water but prefers low traffic and full sun. Our grass types guide compares them side by side.

When is the best time to lay sod in West Texas?

Warm-season grasses root fastest from late spring through summer when soil is warm. Sod can be laid into early fall; dormant-season installs are possible but root more slowly. We schedule around weather and supplier availability.

How long before I can walk on new sod?

Keep foot traffic light for the first two weeks while roots knit into the soil. Most lawns can handle normal use after about four to six weeks, once the sod no longer lifts when you tug a corner.

How often should I water new sod?

New sod needs frequent, light watering at first so the soil underneath stays moist, then deeper and less frequent watering as roots establish. We leave you a watering plan for your grass type and season, and we help you work within the City of San Angelo’s current watering rules.

Do you remove the old grass before laying new sod?

Yes, when it is needed. Laying sod over dead turf, weeds or hard caliche leads to poor rooting. We remove old turf and debris, grade for drainage and prepare the soil before the first pallet comes off the truck.

Can you lay sod in shade?

Some grasses tolerate shade better than others. St. Augustine and Zoysia handle partial shade; Bermuda and buffalograss need full sun. Under dense trees, a mulch or xeriscape bed is often the better answer, and we will tell you so.

Sod or seed: which is better?

Seed costs less up front but takes months to fill in and is easily washed out or overrun by weeds. Sod gives you a finished lawn the day it is installed, controls erosion right away and establishes much faster.

Should my sprinklers be checked before new sod goes in?

Yes. New sod lives or dies on even coverage. We check heads and coverage before installation and can repair or adjust the system so every piece gets water.

Do you install sod for new construction and commercial properties?

Yes. We install sod for new homes, lawn replacements, renovations and commercial properties, from a strip along a sidewalk to a full lot.

Xeriscape & Water-Wise Landscaping

What is xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping is landscaping designed to need little or no supplemental water. It combines drought-tolerant and native plants, decorative rock or mulch, smart grouping of plants by water need and efficient drip irrigation.

Is xeriscape just rocks and cactus?

No. A good xeriscape has color, texture and shade: yuccas and sotol, ornamental grasses, sages, flowering perennials, boulders and gravel. It can include a small, practical patch of lawn where you actually use it.

Does xeriscaping save money?

Most property owners see lower water bills and spend less time and money on mowing, fertilizer and replanting once the plants are established. Installation costs vary with the materials you choose.

What plants do you use in San Angelo xeriscapes?

We choose plants that handle Concho Valley heat, wind, freezes and alkaline soil, such as yuccas, sotol, agave, Texas sage, ornamental grasses and drought-hardy perennials, matched to sun exposure and the look you want.

Can I combine sod and xeriscape?

Yes, and it is often the smartest design for West Texas. Put sod where kids, pets and gatherings need it, then convert slopes, strips, corners and hard-to-water areas to xeriscape beds.

Do xeriscape beds need irrigation?

New plants need water while they establish. Many beds use simple drip lines that put water at the roots with little waste. Once established, many xeriscape plants need only occasional deep watering in long dry spells.

Do you do commercial xeriscape?

Yes. For example, we installed boulders, decorative rock and drought-tolerant plantings at the Ozona Bank Motor Bank in Ozona. Commercial xeriscapes stay sharp with far less mowing and watering.

How do you keep weeds out of rock beds?

Weed control starts with preparation: clearing existing weeds, grading, quality landscape fabric where appropriate and the right depth of rock. Occasional maintenance keeps it clean afterwards.

Drainage

How do I know if my yard has a drainage problem?

Standing water a day after rain, soggy spots that never dry, water against the foundation, eroded beds, mulch or rock washing onto the sidewalk and downspouts that dump water in one spot are all signs that water needs a better path.

What is a French drain?

A French drain is a gravel-filled trench with a perforated pipe that collects water underground and carries it to a safe outlet, away from your home, patio or problem area.

What is a dry creek bed?

A dry creek bed is a shallow channel lined with river rock and boulders that carries runoff during storms and looks like a natural landscape feature the rest of the time. It fits right into a xeriscape design.

What can I do about downspouts flooding my beds?

We can extend or bury downspout lines, add pop-up emitters, or build a river rock bed below the downspout so water spreads out and soaks in instead of cutting a trench.

Can regrading fix water running toward my house?

Often, yes. Grading the soil so it slopes away from the foundation is one of the most important drainage fixes, and we check grade on every sod and landscape install.

Artificial Turf

Is artificial turf a good idea in San Angelo?

It can be, especially for shady spots where grass struggles, dog runs, play areas and small yards where watering is a hassle. It stays green through drought and watering restrictions.

Does artificial turf get hot?

Yes. Synthetic turf in full West Texas sun can get much hotter than real grass in summer. Shade, lighter infill choices and a quick rinse help. We will talk through placement before you decide.

How is artificial turf installed?

Existing grass and soil are removed, a crushed rock base is spread and compacted so water drains through, weed barrier goes down, then the turf is rolled out, seamed, secured at the edges and brushed with infill.

Is artificial turf good for dogs?

Many pet owners like it because there is no mud or dead spots. A well-draining base and occasional rinsing keep it clean.

Concrete, Masonry & Retaining Walls

Do you pour concrete sidewalks and patios?

Yes. We build sidewalks, walkways, patios, pads and concrete landscape curbing, formed and sloped so water drains away from your home.

What is concrete landscape curbing?

Concrete curbing is a continuous poured edge around flower beds and trees. It keeps grass out of beds, holds mulch and rock in place and gives the lawn a clean mowing line.

Do I need a retaining wall?

If a slope is washing out, soil is creeping onto a walk or you want level space for a bed or patio, a retaining wall can hold the grade. We will look at height, drainage and materials with you.

What materials do you use for walls and planters?

Natural stone, landscape block and brick are common choices. The right one depends on the height, the look of the house and the budget.

General Landscaping Questions

What landscaping services does Landscape Express provide?

Landscape Express focuses on sod installation, xeriscape (zeroscape) landscaping, drainage solutions, artificial turf, hardscaping, walkways and sidewalks, concrete, masonry and retaining walls, flower beds and edging, decorative rock and mulch, irrigation repairs and tree care for homes and businesses in San Angelo and the Concho Valley. Mowing is available as a premium add-on when we are already working at your property.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes. We provide consultations and estimates for landscaping projects, maintenance programs, lawn care services, irrigation work, tree services, and landscape improvements. Every property is different, so we take the time to understand your goals and recommend the most effective solutions.

What areas do you serve?

Landscape Express is based in San Angelo and serves the Concho Valley, with projects as far as Abilene, Brownwood, Wall and Ozona.

Do you work on both residential and commercial properties?

Absolutely. We provide landscaping services for homeowners, businesses, office buildings, retail centers, apartment communities, churches, schools, healthcare facilities, industrial properties, and other commercial locations.

How often should landscaping be maintained?

Most properties benefit from attention a few times a year: bed cleanups, mulch or rock refreshes, pruning, irrigation checks and weed control. We can suggest a schedule for the landscape we install.

Can you handle both small and large projects?

Yes. We work on everything from routine lawn mowing and flower bed maintenance to complete landscape renovations and large commercial landscaping projects.

Lawn Care & Maintenance

How often should my lawn be mowed?

During peak growing seasons, most lawns should be mowed weekly. Growth rates can vary based on weather, irrigation, grass type, and fertilization schedules.

Why is regular lawn mowing important?

Proper mowing helps maintain a healthier lawn, encourages stronger growth, improves appearance, reduces weed pressure, and helps prevent many common lawn problems.

Do you provide lawn fertilization?

Yes. We offer customized fertilization programs designed to improve lawn color, strengthen root systems, encourage healthy growth, and help lawns withstand West Texas conditions.

What if my lawn has brown spots?

Brown spots can be caused by drought stress, irrigation issues, insects, disease, nutrient deficiencies, pet damage, or soil conditions. Our lawn diagnosis services help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

Can you help with weeds?

Absolutely. We provide professional weed control programs that target common lawn and landscape weeds while promoting healthier turf and plant growth.

Why is my lawn thinning?

Thin lawns can result from poor irrigation, compacted soil, disease, insects, nutrient deficiencies, excessive shade, or improper mowing practices. We can evaluate your lawn and recommend solutions.

Do you offer weekly lawn mowing?

Mowing is a premium add-on for us at $185 per hour. We are happy to mow when we are already at your property doing other landscaping work, but if you only need a yard mowed, a dedicated mowing service will almost always be the more economical choice.

Landscape Design & Installation

Do I need a landscape design before installing landscaping?

Not always, but a professional design helps ensure the finished landscape is attractive, functional, and suited to your property's layout and maintenance goals.

Can you redesign an existing landscape?

Yes. Landscape renovations are one of our specialties. We can update outdated landscaping, replace overgrown plants, redesign flower beds, improve irrigation, and modernize your outdoor spaces.

How long does a landscape installation project take?

Project timelines vary depending on the scope of work. Smaller projects may take a day or two, while larger installations or renovations may require several days or weeks.

What plants grow best in San Angelo?

Many drought-tolerant trees, shrubs, ornamental grasses, and flowering plants perform well in West Texas. We recommend plant selections based on your property's specific conditions and goals.

Do you install sod?

Yes. We provide professional sod installation services for new lawns, lawn replacement projects, and landscape renovations.

Flower Beds & Decorative Landscaping

How often should flower beds be maintained?

Most flower beds benefit from regular maintenance throughout the year, including weeding, pruning, seasonal cleanup, mulch replenishment, and plant health monitoring.

What is better: mulch or decorative rock?

Both offer benefits. Mulch helps improve soil health and retain moisture, while decorative rock provides long-term durability and lower maintenance requirements. We can help determine which option best fits your property.

How often should mulch be replaced?

Most mulch should be refreshed annually to maintain appearance and effectiveness.

Can you install seasonal flowers?

Yes. We can design and install seasonal flower displays that provide color and visual interest throughout the year.

Do decorative rocks help prevent weeds?

Decorative rock can help reduce weed growth when properly installed, especially when combined with quality landscape preparation and weed barriers.

Irrigation & Sprinkler Systems

Do you install new sprinkler systems?

Yes. We design and install irrigation systems tailored to your property's size, layout, and watering requirements.

Can you repair existing sprinkler systems?

Absolutely. We repair broken sprinkler heads, leaking valves, damaged pipes, controller issues, coverage problems, and other irrigation system concerns.

Why are there brown spots in my lawn when I have sprinklers?

Brown spots often indicate irrigation coverage issues, clogged sprinkler heads, leaks, pressure problems, or scheduling concerns. We can diagnose and correct these problems.

How often should my sprinkler system be inspected?

Most irrigation systems should be inspected at least once a year to identify potential issues and maximize efficiency.

Can a sprinkler system reduce water waste?

Yes. Properly designed and maintained irrigation systems deliver water more efficiently, reducing waste while improving landscape health.

Tree Services

When should trees be trimmed?

Most trees benefit from routine trimming and pruning every few years, although timing varies based on species, age, health, and growth patterns.

Why should dead branches be removed?

Dead branches can become safety hazards and increase the risk of property damage during storms or high winds.

How do I know if a tree needs to be removed?

Signs may include extensive dead branches, disease, severe leaning, storm damage, root failure, or structural instability. We can evaluate the tree and provide recommendations.

Can storm-damaged trees be saved?

Sometimes. The answer depends on the severity of the damage, the species, and the tree's overall health.

Do you remove trees near homes and structures?

Yes. We carefully evaluate each situation and use safe removal methods designed to protect nearby structures and landscaping.

Hardscaping & Landscape Enhancements

What is hardscaping?

Hardscaping refers to the non-living features of a landscape, including walkways, retaining walls, decorative stonework, borders, pathways, and other structural elements.

Do stone walkways add value to a property?

Yes. Professionally installed hardscape features can improve curb appeal, functionality, and overall property value.

Can hardscaping help with drainage problems?

In many cases, yes. Certain hardscape features can help direct water flow, reduce erosion, and improve landscape functionality.

What materials do you use for walkways?

Material options vary based on design goals and budget, but commonly include natural stone, decorative pavers, gravel, and other durable landscape materials.

Commercial Landscaping

Do you offer ongoing commercial maintenance contracts?

Yes. We provide customized commercial landscaping and maintenance programs designed to keep properties attractive and professionally maintained throughout the year.

What types of commercial properties do you service?

We work with office buildings, retail centers, apartment communities, schools, churches, healthcare facilities, industrial sites, municipal properties, and more.

Can you work around business hours?

Yes. We strive to minimize disruption and can schedule services around business operations whenever possible.

Why is commercial landscaping important?

Professional landscaping improves first impressions, enhances property value, supports tenant satisfaction, and reflects positively on your business or organization.

Pricing & Scheduling

How much do landscaping services cost?

Pricing varies depending on property size, service requirements, project scope, and maintenance frequency. We provide customized estimates based on your specific needs.

Do you offer recurring maintenance programs?

We offer ongoing care for beds, rock areas, trees and the landscapes we install. Mowing is a premium add-on at $185 per hour when we are already on site, so it is not the most economical choice for mowing-only service.

How far in advance should I schedule service?

Scheduling availability varies by season. Contact us as early as possible to secure preferred dates and service times.

Are you insured?

Yes. Landscape Express is committed to professional service and operates with appropriate business insurance coverage.

How do I get started?

Simply contact Landscape Express to schedule a consultation. We'll discuss your goals, evaluate your property, and recommend the services that best fit your needs and budget.

Do you offer financing?

Yes. Landscape Express projects can be financed through First Financial Bank, subject to credit approval. You can apply online from our financing page, and we will help you scope the project so you know what to apply for.

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