Landscape Blog Northfield MN

Expert Tips from Landscape Gal

Real Advice from a Local Landscape Expert

At Landscape Gal, we believe knowledge is just as important as materials and design. That’s why we’ve created a blog filled with useful insights, practical tips, and inspirational ideas — all tailored to Minnesota’s unique climate, soils, and seasons.

Our Landscape Blog is for homeowners across Northfield, Rice County, and the southern Twin Cities metro who want to understand, improve, or reimagine their outdoor spaces with confidence.

Each post is written or reviewed by Dee Ann Larson, a MNLA Certified Landscape Professional with over 40 years of hands-on experience. No fluff. Just local expertise that helps you get more from your yard.

What You’ll Find in Our Blog

The blog covers topics based on real questions from clients — from drainage problems to plant pairings and seasonal project planning. Categories include:

Black shovel and rake, suggesting gardening or outdoor work.

Seasonal Landscape Tips

  • What to prune and when

  • Spring and fall cleanup checklists

  • Summer watering best practices

  • Preparing your garden for winte
Black shovel and rake on a white background.

Design Inspiration

  • Backyard patio layout ideas

  • How to plan themed specialty gardens

  • Creative ways to use boulders and outcroppings

  • Design solutions for sloped or narrow lots
Black shovel and rake on white background.

Problem Solving

  • How to address poor drainage and erosion

  • Choosing low-maintenance plants for MN

  • Retaining wall vs. grading: what’s best?

  • Avoiding common installation mistakes
Black silhouette of a shovel and rake on a white background.

Project Spotlights

We highlight real client projects — what the goals were, how we solved challenges, and the results. These stories offer inspiration and show our design process in action.

 Why Our Blog Matters

There’s a lot of landscaping advice online — but most of it isn’t specific to our region or climate. Advice from California or Georgia won’t help with a clay slope in Northfield or a snow-heavy winter in Rice County.

This blog is different. We write for:

  • Homeowners in zones 3b–4a, dealing with extreme seasons

  • DIYers looking for reliable, local guidance

  • Clients who want to stay engaged in the life of their landscape

  • People who care about aesthetics and performance

Whether you’ve just installed a new landscape or are managing one that’s been neglected, our blog helps you make smarter decisions with confidence.

Sample Topics You’ll See

"The Truth About Mulch: How, When, and Why"
Understand what type of mulch is best for your beds, how often to apply it, and why more isn’t always better.

"Drainage Fixes That Don’t Wreck Your Yard"
From French drains to rain gardens, learn how to solve water issues without ruining curb appeal.

"Choosing Plants for Privacy (That Actually Grow Fast)"
Tired of staring at the neighbor’s shed? We’ll show you how to build a screen that works.

"Patio Placement 101"

The best patios are placed—not just built—with sun, slope, views, and flow in mind. Here's what to consider.

"Seasonal Color Without the Fuss"

Learn to layer perennials, annuals, and structure for lasting color and less upkeep.

A landscaped backyard garden with rocks, flowers, and various green shrubs, near a house.

The Benefits of Retaining Walls for Sloped Yards in Minnesota

November 25, 2025
Discover how retaining walls in Minnesota transform sloped yards, prevent erosion, and add beauty and value to your landscape.
A small waterfall cascades into a pond with lily pads and pink flowers; rocks and greenery surround it.

Fixing Drainage Problems in Your Yard: Smart Grading & Drainage Solutions

November 12, 2025
Learn how to fix yard drainage issues in Northfield, MN with expert grading and landscape design solutions that protect your home and lawn.
Pathway through a vibrant garden, lined with colorful flowers and trees under a clear blue sky.

How to Choose the Right Landscape Designer Near You in Northfield, MN

October 28, 2025
Looking for a trusted landscape designer near Northfield, MN? Discover how to choose the right local expert for your yard transformation.

Stay Updated and Inspired

Want to stay in the loop? Bookmark the blog and check back seasonally. You’ll find timely reminders, before-and-after project features, and practical advice that helps you get the most from your yard.

We also highlight seasonal services — like garden bed refreshes, new planting windows, or grading corrections — so you’ll know when it’s time to act.

Woman in denim jacket and white shirt smiles in snowy field, holding tall grass.
Three adults and a child gardening in a yard on a sunny day. The child pushes a toy lawnmower.

FAQs – About the Blog

  • Who writes the blog?

    All blog content is created or reviewed by Dee Ann Larson, ensuring it's practical, accurate, and based on real-world landscape experience in Minnesota.

  • How often is the blog updated?

    We update seasonally or as projects and questions arise. Expect new posts at the beginning of each season and occasional highlights in between.

  • Can I request a blog topic?

    Yes — if you have a question or challenge you’d like covered, feel free to email dee@landscapegal.com and suggest a topic. We welcome ideas from readers and clients.

  • Are the photos in the blog your work?

    Yes. All images shown in blog posts come from actual Landscape Gal projects, unless otherwise noted.

  • Is this just a sales blog?

    No. Our goal is to educate and inspire. We believe informed clients make better decisions — and that’s good for everyone.

Let’s Bring Your Ideas to Life

If something in the blog sparks an idea or helps you see your yard differently, don’t keep it theoretical — reach out. Landscape Gal can turn those insights into a real-world landscape that fits your property, budget, and goals.

Our designs are rooted in experience, not trends. Whether you want a fresh layout, a bold new garden, or a total backyard overhaul, we’re ready to help.