Frequently Asked Questions
Why choose native plant landscaping?
Not only are native plants more helpful to our pollinators like bees and butterflies, but they also help create more of an ecosystem in our neighborhoods than traditional landscapes. Our plants are all grown in Kentucky, so they are more resilient against our hot and humid summers, as well as our cold, frigid winters.
Why choose Beargrass Thunder?
We are a 100% local company with years of experience in Louisville neighborhoods, even helping to change the laws to allow metro Louisville citizens to make their own yardens! We sponsor many local community events about agriculture and food access, including the Louisville Seedbank and the Louisville Pawpaw Festival. We will be there to support you and your yarden, next month, next season, or next year.
What is a “yarden?” How do you make one?
First, we do an onsite consultation where we examine your current sun/shade and soil conditions for best results, and talk about your yarden goals. Then, we make a list of recommendations based on that consultation. We can make this plan as large or as small as you’d like – we can always do more next season or next year if cost is a concern! Finally, we do a free checkup 30 to 60 days after installation to make sure plants are doing ok in the area, and make replacements if necessary. For fall clients, this will take place in the spring due to winter dormancy.
How long will it take to grow, and what should I expect during its growth?
Native plants take approximately three years to grow to maturity. The first year is establishing roots, meaning they will be smaller and less visible above ground. The second year the plants will grow much taller, more green leaves visible on the top with more blooms, but haven't hit their full blooming potential yet. The third year, they reach their full height and bloom potential with fully established roots. In this stage, the plants will finally reach their full resiliency against the elements.
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We call this three year cycle, "Sleep, Creep, Leap."
How do you remove existing grass?
We usually use multiple methods of manual removal of grass roots in smaller areas, depending on whats most appropriate for the space. For larger areas, depending on the concerns of the client we can either use chemical spraying of herbicide for faster results or use a manual method. Be advised that our labor rate will be substantially lower if we are able to use chemicals to kill grass. Using manual removal will take up to 2 or 3 years to fully kill off existing grass.
Should I pick seeds, or rooted plants for my installation?
Seeds are better for meadow-like areas and are much more cost effective, but the landscaping design will naturally change over time, as seeds spread and certain plants gain dominance. Rooted plants can be used to make a more traditional manicured landscape, and will stay more consistent in landscape design over time. Finally, a mixture of both can be used to create a lush meadow, which is the fastest method.
When should I book based on the service I want?
Please note that these dates are for metro Louisville, KY neighborhoods. We can provide more accurate date estimates for you based on your location during the initial consultation.
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March 15th - June 15th is when we can install rooted plants in the first half of the year
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June 15th - September 15th is when we do brush removal, site preparation, maintenance, classes, and lectures
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September 15th - November 15th is when we can install rooted plants during the second half of the year
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November 15th - March 15th is when we can do pruning, shrubs and trees, shrub removal, site preparation, and seeding of native flowers and grasses.
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