Looks like we have finally escaped the wicked winter, and there is proof of life growing from the ground as the snow melts away each day. With Easter right around the corner, now comes the mad dash to prep your property back into shape for the spring season. Are you planning a new razor sharp hedgerow concept? Planting new specimen trees and shrubs? Landscape and garden design is one of my biggest Hamptons obsessions. A beautiful home without equally beautiful landscaping is like walking out of the house half-dressed in my opinion. This week KDHamptons checks in with Kent Valadez, owner of Eastern Property Services, to find out what we should all be focusing on at this critical point in the changing season.

KDHamptons: How would you describe Eastern Property Services to our readers?

Kent Valadez: We are a boutique high-end landscaping firm that caters to properties of distinction, from designing and landscaping through expertly manicured maintenance, Eastern Property Services does it all. We have been in business for over 20 years, are NYS state certified plant health applicators, fully licensed and insured, and many of your neighbors are our satisfied clients.

KDHamptons: Do you only work on large scale projects? Which kind of Hamptons clients are right for your company?

Kent: Our entire team works on either large or small scale projects and we treat every project with the same professionalism and care. The kind of Hamptons client that is right for our company is one that is seeking a maintenance firm to manage their entire exterior of property with superior results.

KDHamptons: Describe a project you are you most proud of?

Kent: The project we are most proud of would have to be our continuing maintenance for over ten years of the second largest residential property in the Hamptons.

KDHamptons: What has been the most over the top request at one of your properties?

Kent: That would have come from a client of ours on the ocean side of Meadow Lane, who requested that every other day our men come by with Dustbusters to remove the sand from the front bluestone walkway and porch area.

KDHamptons: What should Hamptons homeowners be focused on at this point as we transition into the spring season?

Kent: The focus for the early spring should start out with protecting your property from snow mold and treat it accordingly, dethatch and over seed any bare spots, apply a high quality crab grass preventative, apply lime for lawn and plants, and a general spring clean-up.

KDHamptons: Anything important to know about the conditions of our property after such a brutally cold winter?

Kent: Yes. Although it feels sunny and warmer, the ground is still very wet and over saturated right now. Do not get overzealous and book the “Spring Cleaning” of your property until the first or second week of April. Otherwise you risk the chance of one more cold spell coming in and all of the work will have to be redone.

KDHamptons: What is the biggest mistake people can make on their Hamptons property?

Kent: I think the biggest mistake homeowners make is the improper/over-watering of their property. This can cause costly damage to lawn, trees, gardens, and more. Don’t drown your property — more watering does not result in greater growth.

KDHamptons: What is the most overdone landscaping idea at Hamptons homes?

Kent: I think the most overdone landscaping idea in the Hamptons is over-planting on a new home construction, especially when it comes to spec houses. The landscaping of a home should reflect the owners taste, style, and needs. Some people would love a big mature hedgerow planted around their property perimeter, others may prefer wide open spaces and views of the farmland. I like to work with a client to create a landscape that feels as personal and curated as the design inside their home.

* For more information please go to: easternpsinc or call 631.996.4900