For commercial property owners, landscaping isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about creating a welcoming, well-maintained environment for tenants, employees, and visitors year-round. But with Ohio’s unpredictable weather, maintaining a thriving landscape throughout the growing season requires strategic planning and proactive care.

By understanding Ohio gardening zones, selecting resilient plants, and using the right maintenance techniques, you can extend the beauty and functionality of your landscape from early spring through late fall. Here are some expert commercial landscaping strategies to make the most of every growing season.

1. Understand Ohio Gardening Zones for Smarter Plant Selection

The foundation of any successful landscaping plan starts with choosing plants that will thrive in Ohio’s climate. Ohio is primarily located in gardening zones 5 and 6, meaning plant selections need to withstand cold winters and fluctuating temperatures.

Best Plants for Ohio’s Commercial Landscapes:

• Perennials: Coneflowers, black-eyed Susans, and ornamental grasses add year-round interest with minimal maintenance.
• Seasonal Color: Annuals like pansies, begonias, and petunias offer vibrant displays from spring through fall.
• Native Plants: Ohio-native species such as wild geranium and serviceberry trees are more adaptable to the local environment and require less irrigation.

By selecting plants suited to Ohio gardening zones, commercial properties can maintain a polished, professional look with less upkeep.

2. Plan for Year-Round Landscape Interest

A common mistake in landscaping is relying too heavily on plants that peak in just one season. For an eye-catching property year-round, design your landscape with a mix of plant materials that bloom at different times and offer visual interest even in colder months.

Seasonal Landscaping Strategies:

• Spring: Early-blooming tulips and daffodils add color while trees like redbuds provide structure.
• Summer: Heat-tolerant perennials such as salvia and daylilies keep landscapes lush and vibrant.
• Fall: Ornamental grasses and hardy mums extend the season’s beauty.
• Winter: Evergreens, holly, and decorative hardscaping features keep properties visually appealing.

Strategic planning ensures your property looks inviting in every season, keeping tenants and visitors engaged year-round.

3. Use Mulch and Ground Cover to Reduce Maintenance

Mulching and ground cover plants are essential tools for reducing maintenance costs on large commercial properties. These strategies help suppress weeds, retain moisture, and insulate plant roots against temperature fluctuations.

Best Practices for Mulching:

• Apply 2-3 inches of mulch around trees, shrubs, and flower beds to regulate soil temperature and moisture.
• Use organic mulch (such as bark or wood chips) to improve soil health over time.
• Choose low-maintenance ground covers like creeping juniper or pachysandra for areas where grass struggles to grow.

Less maintenance means lower landscaping costs while keeping properties looking pristine.

4. Extend the Season with Smart Irrigation and Cold Frames

Water management is a critical part of commercial landscaping, especially in the transitional months of early spring and late fall. Smart irrigation systems and cold frames can help protect plants from extreme weather while reducing water waste.

Water-Saving and Season-Extending Solutions:

• Smart Irrigation Systems: These automatically adjust based on weather data, ensuring landscapes are watered efficiently without waste.
• Cold Frames & Protective Coverings: For properties with seasonal flower beds or vegetable gardens, cold frames can help extend the growing season by shielding plants from frost.
• Drought-Tolerant Landscaping: Incorporate xeriscaping principles with drought-resistant plants and efficient irrigation to reduce water usage.

By investing in water-smart technologies, commercial properties can cut costs, conserve resources, and maintain healthier landscapes.

5. Schedule Regular Landscape Maintenance for Curb Appeal & Safety

A well-maintained commercial property reflects professionalism and attention to detail, which is why consistent landscape care is crucial. Beyond aesthetics, proactive maintenance helps prevent safety hazards, such as overgrown walkways or fallen branches.

Key Landscape Maintenance Services for Commercial Properties:

• Seasonal Planting & Enhancements: Refresh plantings with each season to keep landscapes looking vibrant.
• Tree & Shrub Pruning: Regular trimming promotes healthy growth and prevents property damage.
• Weed & Pest Control: Stay ahead of invasive species that can overtake gardens and turf areas.

A well-maintained landscape not only enhances curb appeal but also ensures a safe, welcoming environment for visitors and employees.

Optimize Your Commercial Landscape with Schill Grounds Management

Successful gardening in Ohio isn’t just for residential properties—it’s an essential part of maintaining professional, inviting commercial landscapes. By selecting the right plants for Ohio gardening zones, planning for seasonal changes, and using smart landscaping strategies, businesses can keep their properties looking exceptional year-round.

At Schill Grounds Management, we specialize in commercial landscape maintenance, offering expert services tailored to the needs of HOAs, office parks, retail centers, and healthcare facilities. From seasonal plantings to snow and ice management, we keep your property looking its best in every season.

Ready to enhance your commercial property? Contact Schill Grounds Management today to learn how we can create a beautiful, low-maintenance landscape that lasts all year long.