What is Commercial Landscape Management?

Commercial landscape management for properties in Wisconsin involves the comprehensive care and maintenance of outdoor spaces for businesses, institutions, and other commercial entities.

“”A well-managed commercial landscape is an investment that pays dividends in curb appeal, employee satisfaction, and environmental stewardship.”

Chris Kujawa

President, CEO of KEI

Ornamental Switchgrass (Panicum Virgatum) - KEI - Oak Creek, WI

Here’s an overview of what it typically includes:

Seasonal maintenance: Commercial landscape management encompasses a wide range of services, starting with seasonal maintenance. This includes spring cleanup and preparation, summer upkeep, fall leaf removal and winterization, and crucially for Wisconsin, snow and ice management in winter. These seasonal tasks ensure the property looks its best and functions safely year-round.
Lawn care: Lawn care is a cornerstone of commercial landscape management. It involves regular mowing and edging to maintain a neat appearance and fertilization to promote healthy growth.

Weed control is implemented to keep the lawn looking pristine, while aeration and overseeding improve soil health and maintain a lush, green turf.
Plant health care: Plant health care is another vital component. This includes pruning trees and shrubs to maintain their shape and health, managing diseases and pests to protect the landscape’s overall well-being, and providing appropriate fertilization for ornamental plants to ensure vibrant growth and flowering.
Irrigation management: Irrigation management is crucial, especially during Wisconsin’s warmer months. This service covers the installation and maintenance of irrigation systems, making seasonal adjustments to water usage, and winterizing the system to prevent damage during freezing temperatures.
Hardscape maintenance: Hardscape maintenance is essential for the non-living elements of the landscape. This includes cleaning and repairing walkways, patios, and parking lots, power washing surfaces to remove dirt and stains, and sealing concrete or asphalt when necessary to extend their lifespan and maintain appearance.
Sustainable practices: In today’s environmentally conscious world, sustainable practices are increasingly important. These include implementing water conservation techniques, using native plants that are well-adapted to Wisconsin’s climate, employing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to reduce chemical use, and ensuring proper disposal or recycling of landscape waste.
Aesthetic enhancements: Aesthetic enhancements play a significant role in commercial landscape management. This might involve rotating seasonal color in planting beds, installing and maintaining container gardens, and even putting up holiday decorations to create a festive atmosphere at appropriate times of the year.
Safety measures: Safety measures are a critical aspect of landscape management. This includes maintaining clear sightlines for traffic, ensuring proper lighting throughout the property, and promptly addressing any trip hazards to prevent accidents and potential liability issues.
Stormwater Management: Stormwater management is becoming increasingly important in commercial landscapes. This involves maintaining drainage systems to prevent flooding and water damage, as well as managing features like rain gardens or bioswales that help filter and control runoff.
Compliance: Compliance with local regulations is essential in commercial landscape management. This means adhering to local ordinances regarding landscape maintenance, water use, and pest control and maintaining properties to meet any specific industry standards that may apply.
Planning and Budgeting: Planning and budgeting are key to successful long-term landscape management. This involves creating comprehensive plans for the landscape’s development and maintenance, as well as forecasting budgets to ensure all necessary tasks can be completed without financial surprises.
Emergency response: Emergency response capabilities are crucial in landscape management. This includes being prepared for storm damage cleanup and having protocols in place for rapid response to any safety issues that may arise on the property.
Comprehensive skill set: Finally, effective commercial landscape management requires a combination of horticultural knowledge, logistical planning, and customer service skills. Managers must be able to maintain the property’s aesthetic appeal, ensure safety, support property value, and create a positive impression for clients, employees, and visitors, all while working within budget constraints and adapting to Wisconsin’s varied climate conditions.

Black-Eyed Susan Flowers (Rudbeckia Fulgida) - KEI - Oak Creek, WI

In conclusion, commercial landscape management services is a multifaceted discipline that requires expertise across various domains. From addressing the challenges posed by Wisconsin’s distinct seasons to implementing sustainable practices and ensuring regulatory compliance, effective management demands a holistic approach.

Property owners and managers who invest in comprehensive landscape management not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of their properties but also contribute to environmental sustainability, ensure safety, and potentially increase property value. As the field continues to evolve with new technologies and environmental considerations, staying informed and adaptable will be key to maintaining beautiful, functional, and sustainable commercial landscapes across the state.

Chris Kujawa

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