Living in the desert, most of us with backyards have seen firsthand how summers can be tough on lawns, landscape plants, and even trees. With temperatures soaring above 100 degrees and little rain (except for those monsoon storms), plants and gardens can become stressed from both lack of water and extreme heat. But help is out there to keep our landscaping looking terrific year-round.
For the last 10 years, Richard Santistevan has built a great reputation with his business, A&R Maintenance and Landscaping. But he said his passion for landscaping started long before that.
"What got this all started was really economics," said Richard remembering himself and his wife in their first home. "We had to watch our budget, so we did our own landscaping, and I ended up just loving it. Then my friends and neighbors started to see my work and wanted me to do their yards too, and that's how it all started!"
As the business grew, Richard said the type of work he does has also evolved. He said the water situation in Nevada has dictated his projects and what his customers need to turn their backyards into an oasis.
"Our clients want their outdoor spaces to be beautiful and feel like home, but living in the desert we have to be mindful that saving water is also important," said Richard. "So, as we work with homeowners to create their dream oasis, we make sure to provide them with our water smart landscaping alternatives. By providing options like artificial grass, that not only cuts down on their water bills but also helps with water conservation efforts."
From lush garden retreats to drought-resistant xeriscapes, Richard and his team make it their mission to bring creativity and expertise to every project they undertake. Richard said the secret to his success is listening to his customers and paying attention to details. He also gives out advice for those who want to make sure their outdoor spaces look amazing year-round.
"It's all about timing and knowing what works for you," said Richard. "If you want everything to bloom and be beautiful in the Spring, you have to start planning in the fall. We are lucky to be doing well, but that also means we need to plan our schedules to help all our customers. So, my tip for people who want to work with a landscaper is to plan ahead and reach out early."
Richard also recommends regular maintenance to keep landscaping looking its best, even as growth slows in the summer. If you are up to doing your own gardening, A&R Maintenance is there for their customers at any time of the year.
"We truly love what we do and I am proud to say A&R has grown into a family business," said Richard. "Both my two sons work for me along, with our nephew. And we don't just do residential work, we work with new construction, schools, parks, golf courses and all kinds of commercial buildings. Our goal is to keep growing and serving our wonderful community of Southern Nevada.
If you want everything to bloom and be beautiful in the Spring, you have to start planning in the fall.