A well-maintained commercial landscape enhances curb appeal, improves safety, and adds value to your property. But too often, we see Ottawa commercial properties making critical landscaping mistakes that cost them in the long run—whether it’s wasted money, poor aesthetics, or liability concerns.
At VS Landscape Group, we specialize in full-service commercial grounds maintenance across Ottawa and surrounding areas. In this post, we’ll explore some of the most common landscaping mistakes commercial property managers make—and how to fix them.
Mistake #1: Poor Drainage & Grading
Water pooling near building foundations, parking lots, or walkways is more than just a nuisance—it’s a liability and a maintenance nightmare. Improper grading and lack of drainage planning can lead to:
- Soil erosion
- Pavement heaving and cracking
- Ice buildup in winter
- Flooded basements or mechanical rooms
How to Fix It:
Our team provides grading and drainage corrections as part of our landscaping packages. We identify low spots, install proper swales and trenches, and recommend permanent drainage solutions like French drains or catch basins.
Related reading: “Is Your Snow Contractor Clearing Fire Hydrants? They Should Be.” – We talk about how poor grading leads to snowmelt pooling around critical access points.
Mistake #2: Inconsistent Mowing & Lawn Maintenance
Infrequent mowing or letting grass get too long between cuts can damage turf health. Tall grass invites pests, creates seed heads that degrade the look of your lawn, and stresses root systems when cut too aggressively.
How to Fix It:
Our Ottawa commercial lawn care programs include scheduled weekly mowing, string trimming, edging, and debris cleanup. We use sharp blades and mow in alternating patterns to ensure an even, healthy cut every time.
Related reading: “Why Property Managers in Ottawa Are Switching to Full-Service Landscape Contractors”
Mistake #3: Over-Fertilizing or Using the Wrong Products
More isn’t always better. Excessive fertilizer—especially high-nitrogen types—can burn grass, promote shallow root growth, and contaminate stormwater runoff. Similarly, using the wrong weed control products or applying them at the wrong time reduces effectiveness and harms your turf.
How to Fix It:
We use a soil-first approach, testing nutrient levels and customizing treatment plans. Our certified team also handles weed control applications with licensed pesticide applicators to ensure safety and compliance with all Ottawa bylaws.
Related reading: Meet Matt — Our Supervisor With Pesticide Certification
Mistake #4: Neglecting Seasonal Maintenance
Failing to prep a site for winter—or ignoring spring cleanup—leads to compacted soil, dead spots, excessive thatch, and drainage issues. Forgotten landscape beds and hardscapes can quickly become overgrown and unsightly.
How to Fix It:
We offer full seasonal transition services, including:
- Spring cleanup (debris, litter, edging)
- Summer lawn and bed maintenance
- Fall leaf and bed cleanup
- Snow removal and ice control
Learn more:
“Why Snow Hauling Matters for High-Traffic Sites in Ottawa”
“Commercial Salting in Ottawa: Protect Your Property from Ice Liability”
Mistake #5: Ignoring the Impact of Snow & Ice
Your winter operations can affect your summer turf health. Plow damage, heavy salt use, and unmarked curbs all contribute to dead grass, compacted soil, and safety hazards come spring.
How to Fix It:
Our snow teams work hand-in-hand with our landscaping crews. We:
- Pre-mark curbs and landscape edges
- Use calibrated salters to minimize lawn damage
- Include spring repair in our snow contracts
Related blogs:
“Commercial Salting Services in Ottawa: Protect Your Property from Ice Liability”
“Snow Plow Damage in Ottawa: Who Pays and How to Prevent It”
Pro Tip: Bundle Your Services
Hiring one contractor for snow, lawn, irrigation, and landscaping ensures continuity and reduces the risk of these costly mistakes.
At VS Landscape Group, we deliver year-round commercial grounds maintenance in Ottawa, so nothing slips through the cracks between seasons.
Ready to Fix Your Landscape?
If you’ve experienced standing water, dead patches, or inconsistent service—you’re not alone. Most of these common landscaping issues can be fixed with expert guidance and a proactive plan.
Book a free site assessment with VS Landscape Group today, and we’ll show you how to improve your commercial landscape while saving money in the long run.
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