Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About Our Services
Check out the answers to our most commonly asked questions below!
What areas do we service?
We service the Northern Virginia area: Fairfax County, Arlington County, Alexandria City, Prince William County, and Loudoun County.
How often should my lawn be watered?
Most turf in the Northern Virginia area should be watered approximately 1 inch per week. The amount of water should be increased or decreased depending on weather conditions. Over-watering can do more damage to the turf than under-watering.
We have dogs that just destroy the lawn, leaving dead grass and brown spots. What can you do about this?
Depending on the severity of the damaged turf, the soil can be amended and the area seeded. Sod is another option available to restore damaged turf.
Are your lawn maintenance treatments environmentally friendly?
Elite offers both traditional and organic lawn programs. Our employees attend educational seminars and state certification classes to keep up to date on the latest laws, trends, and products available.
My lawn is full of weeds and crab grass. How do you treat this and will I have any lawn left when you’re done?
Upon visiting the customer’s property, Elite would determine what types of pre-emergent and/or post-emergent herbicides would be necessary and the proper timing of these treatments.
During weekly maintenance, do you remove clippings and other lawn debris from my property?
Grass clippings (if bagged) will be placed in clear bags and left at the curb or in a customer-designated area/container.
What happens service-wise if it rains?
Elite does its best to keep on schedule with weekly mowing. If the weather prevents Elite from coming out to your property on your scheduled day, we will make every attempt to be out and back on schedule the following day, weather permitting.
What does weekly lawn maintenance include?
Weekly lawn maintenance includes turf mowing and edging. Grass clippings (if bagged) will be placed in bags and left at the curb for your waste removal service. Any grass clippings will be blown off of hardscaping, driveways & curbs.
How do I maintain my new landscaping?
Depending upon the type of landscape installed, Elite will provide you with specific watering and care instructions.
There are lots of lawn and landscape companies advertising the same services. Why should I choose Elite Landscaping?
Elite Landscaping has been in business since 1997. We are a family-owned company, and our customers come first. We are not the largest lawn and landscape company out there, nor are we the smallest. We pride ourselves on giving our customers the personalized care and attention they require.
What are hardscapes? Can you show me examples?
The dictionary description of a hardscape is “the manmade part of the grounds surrounding a building”; in the landscaping industry, the term is used to describe patios, walkways, decks, and retaining walls.
What are aquascapes? Can you show me examples?
An Aquascape in an outside water garden, pond, or fountain. Examples are Koi Ponds, disappearing fountains, and waterfalls.
What type of landscaping projects does Elite specialize in?
Elite Landscaping is a full-service lawn, landscaping, and hardscape contractor. We provide services for small townhome residences to large estates.
When is the best time to begin a landscaping project?
Landscape projects can be done throughout the year, depending on weather conditions and plant availability. Ideal times for plant installation are spring and fall. Hardscape installation can be done throughout the year—including during the winter months. Maintenance is usually performed between March and November.
We’re ready to begin. How do we start? What is the process?
The process begins with a customer contacting and scheduling a consultation with one of our sales representatives. At that time, the customer will discuss with our sales rep the scope of the project, landscape, or maintenance needs they are looking for. The customer will then receive a price quotation and any drawings.
If we choose to work with Elite, how long does it take before you begin work on our project?
This would depend on the scope and size of the project.
Who does the work? Do you have your own employees, or do you sub out pieces of the project?
Landscaping, maintenance, and most hardscape projects are performed by Elite employees. Occasionally, subcontractors are used for special projects—an example would be iron railings or stamped concrete.
Are you licensed, bonded, and insured? What does this mean?
Elite Landscaping is fully licensed, bonded, and insured. Using a company that is licensed by the State of Virginia and local jurisdictions protects the customer, ensuring that the contractor has met all criteria required by the State. Bonding gives the homeowner the opportunity to be reimbursed for non-performance.
Are your plants guaranteed? If so, for how long?
Elite Landscaping warrants new plant installation—not including annuals—for one year from the date of installation if sound horticultural practices are maintained.
I need a new lawn. Should I plant grass seed or sod?
Whether you decide to seed or install sod depends upon several factors. First and foremost, do you want instant grass for immediate use, or are you willing to put in the time and energy to get grass to grow from seed? Other factors would include the time of year, budget, property layout (hills, swales, flat areas), and current weather.
No matter what I do, my lawn looks awful. What do you suggest?
If you are not an Elite customer, you should be! Elite will provide a program designed for your specific turf type and needs. Please remember, Rome was not built in a day, and a beautiful, healthy lawn takes commitment and time.
What is overseeding?
Overseeding an established lawn is the application of grass seed to help thicken the turf. Overseeding is more effective when done in conjunction with core aeration. Overseeding with newer turfgrass varieties into an older lawn can help it better withstand insects, disease, and drought.
What is aeration and when should it be done?
Core aeration is the process of removing small soil plugs or cores from the lawn. The purpose of aerating is to reduce soil compaction. It allows air, nutrients, and water into the turf root system. Aeration can help reduce thatch buildup and can help in preventing fertilizer and pesticide run off of highly compacted soils.