Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals Named One of the Midwest Region’s Fastest Growing Companies

Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals Ranked No. 128 on the 2024 In. 5000

Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals Named One of the Midwest Region’s Fastest Growing Companies

Weller Brothers Ranks No. 128 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 With a Three-Year Revenue Growth of 82.8 Percent

SIOUX FALLS, SD – Inc. magazine revealed that Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals is No. 128 on its annual Inc. 5000 list, the most prestigious ranking of the region’s fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a unique look at the most successful companies within the American economy’s most dynamic segment – its independent small businesses, such as Weller Brothers.

“We are honored to be recognized by Inc. 5000; it’s a true testament to the dedication of our team, says Cole Weller, CEO of Weller Brothers. “At Weller Brothers, we grow so we can provide our people with opportunities for advancement. We are excited to continue on our growth journey and watch our people advance their careers. A big thank you to our employees at all of our locations for their hard work and dedication to ‘Creating Outdoor Spaces for Life’s Best Moments.’”

Not only has Weller Brothers earned a spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, but Weller Brothers has achieved an incredible three-year average growth of over 82.8 percent and a median rate of 35.2 percent.

Since 2001, Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals has provided the Midwest with the highest quality landscape design, installation, and lawn and tree services. Brothers Cole Weller (Sioux Falls, SD) and Brent Weller (Sioux Falls, SD) manage the company as CEO/President and Vice President/Regional Operations Director, respectively.

As a private company, Weller Brothers takes great pride in being a locally owned and operated business located in the Midwest region, catering to the needs of communities in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Rochester, Minnesota, and in our most recent expansion of Des Moines, Iowa.

Our services throughout these communities include landscape design, expert lawn care, and certified arborist services. Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals employs landscape and tree professionals who are eager to expand their professional careers, as well as offering seasonal internships through partnerships with regional high schools and colleges.

Complete results of the Inc. 5000 Regionals: Midwest, including company profiles, can be found at inc.com/Midwest. You’ll also find an interactive database that can be sorted by industry, metro area, and other criteria.

Accountant

Questions?

(605) 205-8679

hr@wellerbrothers.com

Details about this Career

The primary responsibility of the Accountant is to support the accounting and finance functions for Weller Brothers and all entities. Provide excellent customer service by assisting internal and external customers promptly and courteously. Answers questions and provides information as needed. Perform all job responsibilities in a safe, timely, and efficient manner.

Job Summary and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and competency satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job.

Accounting

Process vendor-issued invoices
Properly code credit card activity
Issue purchase orders and follow up on discrepancies
Reconcile credit card, loan, and bank statements
Follow up on past due accounts receivable
Post payments to customer accounts
Assist with sales/use tax returns and excise tax returns
Identify and implement process efficiencies where possible
Assist with month end account reconciliations and posting of journal entries
Assist in developing formal accounting policies and procedures
Perform other accounting tasks as they arise

General / Office

Assist with client calls regarding accounting-related questions.
Set up new leads and coordinate scheduling with sales/design staff
Organize paperwork for new customer projects
Assist with other projects as needed
Make decisions that are in the best interest of the company.
Other duties are needed to help drive and fulfill the Weller Brothers Mission.

Compensation and Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision insurance
Paid holidays and paid time off
401k with company match

Job Requirements

Work and communicate professionally with customers and team members.
Proficient in Microsoft Office
Working knowledge of QuickBooks preferred
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Highly organized and detail-oriented
Strong ability to work independently with little direction
Ability to prioritize and multitask
Excellent time management skills
Collaborative, positive attitude with eagerness to learn and assist where needed
0-3 year’s accounting experience
Associates in Accounting or related field required

Why Work Here?

You can work anywhere. So why work at Weller Brothers?

You can be somebody here, and we believe that we are the best employer in the Midwest.

Sioux Falls

Five Sioux Falls Tree Specialists Pass Arborist Certifications

Weller Brothers Class 2 and 3 Certified Arborists

Five Sioux Falls Tree Specialists Pass Arborist Certifications

Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals does more than just lawn care.

Recently, five tree care professionals have taken the next step in their careers to become certified arborists in Sioux Falls!

We are proud to congratulate Jamie Boock, Jeremy Ringgenberg, and Ashley Souphimdara for completing Electrical Hazard Awareness Training in compliance with OSHA 29 CFR 1910.269 and ANSI Z133-2017 standards 4.2 to be categorized as an Incidental Line Clearance Arborist (commonly known as level 2 arborist).

Jordan Ringgenberg and Phil Nystrom have completed Level 3 as Qualified Line Clearance Arborists and will maintain MAD (Minimum Approach Distance) from energized electrical conductors per Table 3 in the Z133.

Why are these certifications such a big deal for arborists? There are many benefits to hiring a professional certified arborist; check out the reasons below!

Phil Nystrom, a Weller Brothers Certified Arborist Removing a Tree

Why Choose a Certified Arborist?

As you consider your tree care or tree removal needs, you may wonder why you should leave the work to the professionals. A certified arborist earns this designation from the International Society of Arboriculture through work experience and education.

To obtain certification, potential tree care professionals must go through an exam as well as an application process that includes reference letters and verifications. The whole process is what makes us, at Weller Brothers, proud of our entire team of tree care professionals!

“Certification and furthering my education in tree removal is important to me because it continues to keep everyone at the job site safe, as well as our clients,” says Weller Brothers certified arborist Phil Nystrom. “Tree removal can be very dangerous if you do not do it properly. That is why our clients choose Weller Brothers Certified Arborists for their tree removal needs.”

What Can Certified Arborists Do for You?

They have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly identify, maintain, troubleshoot, and care for your trees.
They remain updated on tree care best practices through continued education to serve you better.
They commit to tree care as well as working safely and effectively.

Contact Us for Sioux Falls Tree Removal

Our certified arborists will evaluate and access the best treatment or removal options for your trees. Contact us here if you need tree removal in the Sioux Falls, SD, area.

Sioux Falls

Landscape Foreman (Sioux Falls)

Questions?

(605) 205-8679

hr@wellerbrothers.com

Details about this Career

The primary responsibility of the Landscape Foreman is to oversee designated landscape projects. Coordinate and manage team members along with their schedules. This position will perform a variety of outdoor landscape project installations that improve the functional and/or aesthetic value of the property. Many of the projects include softscape and hardscape installation, including pavers, retaining walls, and outdoor kitchens. All Weller Brothers team members are expected to provide excellent client service by assisting clients promptly and courteously, answer questions and provide information as needed. A landscape foreman will perform and ensure all team members are executing all job responsibilities in a safe, timely and efficient manner.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and competency satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required to perform this job.

Place orders for materials needed for projects. Make sure material deliveries are set to arrive as they are needed on the jobsite. For any special order materials, make sure that you have scheduled delivery on a timeline that allows the crew to continue a consistent pace of work.
Contact and line up subcontractors for projects. Ensure subcontractors are scheduled to start and finish their portion of the work in sequence with what Weller Brothers is doing on that jobsite to maximize efficiency.
Take time to review all plans with team members making sure they are aware of what their assignments are if you are going to be absent from a jobsite.
Set daily and weekly goals for all team members on the jobsite.
Oversee a crew of 2-3 team members, making sure they are on track and being productive.
Responsible for maintaining clean job sites. Record End-of-Day Checklist each day.
Maintain a strong work ethic to complete a variety of physical job tasks.
Professionally communicate with clients to achieve strong client/company relationships.
Operate a variety of outdoor landscape and power equipment, as well as a variety of hand tools.
Commit the hours necessary to make sure the job is done to satisfaction; this may include weekends and/or holidays
Maintain a clean appearance and conform to the Weller Brothers dress code.
Willingness to learn new techniques and installation practices.
Assist in maintaining all company equipment.
Follow all policies as specified in the Team Member Handbook.
Make decisions that are in the best interest of the company.
Other duties needed to help drive and fulfill the Weller Brothers Mission.

Required Skills and Abilities

Strong communication skills.
Superior work ethic.
Timely input of hours on LMN software to ensure accurate payroll processing.
Detail oriented, with considerable attention to order and cleanliness.
Ability to manage multiple tasks
Strong attention to detail
Experience installing softscapes, such as edging, mulch, rock, plants, trees and sod.
Experience installing hardscapes, such as pavers, retaining walls, and outdoor kitchens.

Education and Experience

Minimum of one-year experience in industry or related field.
Must be 16 years or older
High school diploma/GED
Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record is preferred.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a team member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Team members must be able to perform the following tasks during a typical 8+hour day.

HEAVY WORK: Lifting up to 100 pounds; frequent lifting or carrying objects weighing up to 80 pounds.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time non-exempt position. Specific schedules will be determined based on weather and general needs of the business.

Compensation and Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Holidays and Paid Time Off
401K with Company Match Up to 4%
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Cell Phone Reimbursement
Company Truck
Year Round Employment
Ample Overtime During the Summer Work Season
Relocation Assistance if Applicable

Disclaimer: The specific statements shown in each section of this job description are not intended to be all-inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully. The company recognized that an individual with a disability may require an accommodation to enable him/her to successfully perform a job function. Consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.

The Weller Brothers Way

Our Mission and Roots guide us in our decision and actions every day. They are not just written words; they are our culture.

Why Work Here?

You can work anywhere. So why work at Weller Brothers?

You can be somebody here, and we believe that we are the best employer in the Midwest.

Sioux Falls

Six Reasons To Use Native Plants in Your Next Landscaping Project

Landscaping project utilizing South Dakota Native Plants

Six Reasons To Use Native Plants in Your Next Landscaping Project

Did you know that utilizing native plants in your next landscaping project is not only great for the environment but can also make lawn maintenance easier?

We know that low-maintenance solutions are a priority as a homeowner. When it comes to your landscaping, Weller Brothers has you covered on the best ways to make a big impact on your property while only making a small impact on the earth.

Let’s learn why you should choose native plants when spring makes its eagerly awaited arrival back to the midwestern states!

One thing to keep in mind is that different geographic areas have different types of native plants. Finding a local nursery that can serve as a great asset to ensure that your selection of native plants is native to your area!

Environmental and Pocketbook Friendly

Native plants are low maintenance because they are naturally well suited for the local environment. By choosing native species for your landscaping, you can significantly cut down the time and money you spend on multiple different aspects of maintenance.

Native plants offer a wide variety of benefits to connect us with our environment. Below are six reasons from the professionals:

1. No Fertilizer or Pesticides Needed

Native plants have adapted to their ecosystem’s soil. No matter if your soil is poor or extremely fertile, they can survive off of the soil’s available nutrients, as well as defend against the area’s insects, diseases and fungi. Not only does this save you time and cash, but it is also great for the environment.

2. Irrigation

Though our planet may be full of water, the availability of clean and safe drinking water is shrinking. Water that is used to irrigate your lawn, garden, or flower bed is valuable and can quickly add up costs in the heat of summer. Native plants generally require less water than non-native plants due to their adaptation.

3. Annual Bloom

Gone are the days of having to head to your local nursery each spring to purchase plants for your yard! Due to the adaptability of native plants, they will resurface each spring as if you just planted them, saving you the hassle of having to repurchase, cage, tear out, and replant each year.

4. Water Runoff

When rain falls, it must go somewhere. The soil will soak up some of the water and replenish the groundwater. However, most water flows into a storm drain as runoff, which is often polluted by several different types of chemicals. By adding native plants, you can help minimize the effects of this runoff as their deep roots help filter stormwater before it makes its way to a waterway.

5. Erosion Prevention

Erosion — it is a real pain! It begins to change the shape of your yard’s slopes and landscape beds and can even change water flow. The extremely deep roots from native plants can help stabilize and anchor the soil to avoid further erosion.

6. Fostering Habitats and Biodiversity

Biodiversity is the wide variety of life on Earth; from humans to tiny organisms, biodiversity is the interconnection between all living things. When you grow native plants you’re preserving the natural connections and habitats between organisms in your yard. Homegrown National Park is a nationwide call to action to regenerate biodiversity in the ecosystem. This allows for a unique habitat to be built for discovery and learning from children of all ages in the outdoors.

What Native Plants to Include in the Midwest Region

Since you are now convinced to create your very own habitat from native plants, sourcing and selecting the perfect plants comes next! Prairie Moon Nursery is an advocate for prairie restoration and is a resource for authentic native plants.

Here are some of Weller Brothers favorite native plants that will not only thrive here in the Midwest, but add the fundamental elements needed to bring your landscape project to life.

Oak Trees’ (Quercus) ecological benefits number as high as their lifespan. Their mighty crown of branches provides not only an oasis of shade but also an abundant food source for native animals. The expansive root system also makes it an ideal choice for soil conservation, preventing erosion in natural or manmade terrain.
Yarrow (Achillea) is a unique plant sure to add color and texture to your landscape. This deer and rabbit-resistant plant can grow in some pretty unfavorable conditions but will give you long-lasting blooms that seem to float above the stems like lazy clouds ranging from red to pink to yellow. Yarrow is also a perfect addition to any fresh bouquet or to cut and dry.

Penstemon or Beardtongues are another native flower that come in a vibrant array of colors. These blooms provide a bountiful buffet of nectar to our favorite winged pollinators — hummingbirds and bees. As well as being an important player in promoting diversity, Penstemon is pest and drought-resistant.
Grasses such as Little BlueStem (Schizachyrium) provide not only year-round interest to your landscape, but year-round safety to one of our most important gardeners. This grass is often chosen by the female bumblebee as her shelter for the long winter. The seed of this grass also attracts many varieties of songbirds, a welcome sign of life on our long and dismal winter days.
Potentilla is a prolific blooming shrub that can add a pop of color to any landscape. Besides the benefit of beauty, the root system is fibrous and wide-spanning — acting as a perfect natural netting to prevent erosion.

Contact Us To Have the Professionals Design Your Native Plant Sanctuary

Take the guesswork out of creating an all-encompassing native landscape project and let the professionals at Weller Brothers in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN, and Des Moines, IA, handle your project.

Our experienced Landscape Design team will ensure your native landscape project comes to life. Contact us here to request landscape design services.

Des Moines Rochester Sioux Falls

Maxwell Tolk Promoted To Account Manager in Sioux Falls

Maxwell Tolk, Account Manager at Weller Brothers Landscaping

Maxwell Tolk Promoted To Account Manager in Sioux Falls

Weller Brothers is well known for promoting from within, giving each and every individual the opportunity to advance their career as they gain on the job experience and confidence.

We are thrilled to share that Maxwell Tolk has taken a leap forward in his career at Weller Brothers Landscaping in Sioux Falls, SD and has been promoted from Horticulture Foreman to Account Manager.

A Strong Foundation

Originally from Lake Park, Iowa, Maxwell attended Southeast Technical College in Sioux Falls, SD, graduating in 2020 with a degree in Horticulture and Landscape Design. After graduating, Tolk pursued an opportunity working in Vancouver, British Columbia for two years.

During Maxwell’s time in Vancouver, he gained an all-encompassing hands on experience which utilized his degree knowledge while learning customer services and problem solving skills. Maxwell was the on-site point of contact for many of the HOA properties in Vancouver, which led him to branching out to find new growth opportunities.

Maximizing Potential

Upon his return to Sioux Falls, SD, he joined the Weller Brothers team as a Horticulture Foreman and continued to grow as a leader on the Weller Brothers Team.

“I am very excited to have Maxwell on our team,” says Camrin Meyer, Weller Brothers Lead Account Manager. “His personality meshes perfectly in the office, and I know that his hard work and dedication to our customers is something that they are also going to love.”

Maxwell is very eager to be at the forefront of client interactions, ensuring that their landscaping and maintenance goals are not only met but exceeded. His understanding of landscaping services combined with his proven leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of Weller Brothers Landscaping in Sioux Falls, SD.

“I am always looking for growth opportunities in my career to learn new things and overcome challenges, while providing the best customer service possible,” Maxwell says.

“One person that influenced and mentored me to take the opportunity of an Account Manager was Ryan Benda; he has a wealth of experience and knowledge that I learn from.”

As Maxwell steps into his new role as an Account Manager at Weller Brothers Landscaping, we celebrate not just an individual accomplishment but also his commitment to excellence. We look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of his career!

Learn More About Careers at Weller Brothers

Our team in constantly growing. As we create positions and promote employees within, we are always looking to fill roles with talented individuals.

If you’re interested in a lawn or landscape job in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN, or Des Moines, IA, – Contact Us Today!

Sioux Falls

What Is Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and How Do You Prevent It From Killing Your Ash Tree?

What Is Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and How Do You Prevent It From Killing Your Ash Tree?

The emerald ash borer (EAB) is an invasive beetle species native to Asia that infects and kills ash trees. The larvae of the emerald ash borer feed on the inside of ash trees, which disrupts the tree’s ability to be well nourished and grow, ultimately leading to the tree’s death.

The infestation of emerald ash borer is problematic in Sioux Falls, SD, as it poses a threat to the ash tree population. Ash trees are valuable for their aesthetic, ecological, and economic contributions. The loss of ash trees can impact ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and have economic consequences for industries related to wood and forest products.

As we begin identifying and treating your ash trees there are a few different treatment options for treating EAB in Sioux Falls, SD. The professionals at Weller Brothers and the City of Sioux Falls, SD remind you that if you are not performing treatment on your ash trees of EAB you will be required to remove them.

How to Identify an Ash Tree

It is important to identify if your tree is an ash tree prior to beginning treatment, as EAB does not infect any other species of trees. Identifying an ash tree involves examining various features such as leaves, bark, branches, and seeds. Here are some key characteristics to help you identify an ash tree:

Ash Tree Characteristics:

Leaves, ash trees typically have compound leaves composed of multiple leaflets. Each leaf has five to 11 leaflets arranged opposite each other on the stem.
Bark, the bark of mature ash trees is generally furrowed, forming diamond-shaped patterns. Young ash trees may present smoother bark.
Branches, ash trees have distinctive branching patterns. The branches and twigs are usually opposite, meaning they grow directly across from each other on the stem.
Seeds, ash trees produce winged seeds known as samaras. These seeds often form in clusters and have a flat, wing-like structure that helps them disperse in the wind.

Checking if your Ash Tree is Infected

If your tree is an ash tree, it is vulnerable to EAB and will likely become infested.

The signs of an early EAB infestation can be difficult to see. As the infestation grows (and greater harm is caused to the tree), the signs become more visible. You are NOT likely to see an adult EAB (beetle). However, you may see an EAB larva if you look beneath the bark of an infested ash tree.

If you value your ash tree, the best course of action is to protect the tree from infestation instead of waiting to see if it becomes infected.

The most common signs of an EAB-infested ash tree are:

Woodpeckers are known to feed on EAB larvae. An increase in woodpecker activity on an ash tree could indicate an infestation, as they may be targeting the larvae beneath the bark.
The canopy of your tree is beginning to thin.
The bark is beginning to crack and split.
EAB larvae create serpentine galleries (tunnels) under the bark as they feed on the tree’s vascular tissue. If you peel back the bark, you may observe these galleries, which have a distinctive S-shaped or serpentine pattern.
Adult emerald ash borers create distinctive D-shaped exit holes when they emerge from the tree. These small exit holes are usually about 1/8 inch in diameter and can be found on the trunk and branches.

How to Treat your EAB Infested Ash Tree

An EAB-infested ash tree may be saved if the infestation is caught early (within the first couple of years of infestation) and the tree is otherwise healthy.

However, once an infested ash tree has lost about 30% or more of its leaf canopy, it has become very compromised and is unlikely to survive even with treatment. Depending on the size and health of an ash tree, it may take anywhere between two to five years for a tree to die from an EAB infestation.

EAB Treatment Options:

Treat your ash tree for the life of the tree: Treatments typically cost $150 – $350 per tree and need to be repeated every two years. After the primary infestation is over and most of the Ash within the area are dead, you can treat it every four years. Now that it is here, EAB will always be present in the Midwest area.
Remove your ash tree: If you do not treat your ash tree, it will eventually die within the next ten years. You can remove your tree now, or you can remove it later. Typically, the cost for removing a tree that is still alive is quite a bit cheaper than removing a tree that is dead, so cutting early is to your benefit. Once the ash tree dies it becomes very brittle and can fall apart becoming a hazard to people and property.

Contact Us For Professional Ash Tree Treatment

If you are ready to tackle your EAB infestation, Weller Brothers is here to help you. Our team of professionals, including Certified Arborists, will advise you on the best plan of action to ensure you remain city-compliant.

Contact us here to request Tree Health and EAB Services in Sioux Falls, SD.

Sioux Falls

Caring for Your Outdoor Patio

Outdoor Fireplace with Custom Outdoor Furniture and Patio

Caring for Your Outdoor Patio

Outdoor patios combine comfort, and versatility that allows relaxation, socialization, and while enjoying the outdoors! The ability to create a personalized and inviting outdoor area makes patios a favorite feature of many homes.

However, caring for a patio and outdoor furniture in the Midwest involves addressing specific challenges with the region’s diverse climate, including frigid winters, hot summers, and varying types of precipitation.

Weller Brother’s landscape designers and HGTV are here to offer you their professional expertise to ensure your patio and outdoor furniture are maintained and cared for to optimize your next hosting experience!

Outdoor Patio Care

Not all patios are created the same; different materials need to be cared for specifically to ensure that you maintain the integrity of the paver materials. Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaning solutions that are not recommended for your patio materials. Here are our general patio cleaning recommendations:

Recommended Patio Cleaning Guidelines:

Remove all patio furniture, sweep off or use a leaf blower to remove debris from the patio.
Hose down the concrete or pavers with a garden hose equipped with a nozzle that provides a strong stream of water or a pressure washer on a low setting.
Use a mild grease-cutting detergent such as Dawn or Ajax dishwashing liquid mixed with water and a natural or synthetic bristle scrub brush to help brighten the patio surface. NOTE: Never use a wire brush as it can leave rust stains and scratch the concrete or paver surface.
Use a degreaser made for concrete to remove oily spots, often found near the grill.
If your patio is heavily discolored, you should call in a professional. They will apply a solution on the patio surface to bring it back to life.

Outdoor Furniture Maintenance

You should maintain your outdoor furniture to ensure many years of comfort and pleasure in your outdoor living space. We recommend that patio furniture be “deep cleaned” at least twice a year – once in the spring when temperatures begin to rise, and once in the late fall before it is stored out of the winter elements.

Regular cleaning is recommended for all types of outdoor furniture, this will minimize mildew, dirt and debris buildup.

How to Clean your Outdoor Furniture:

Wash cushions and furniture frames with mild soap and clean water. Let cushions dry completely before placing them back on the furniture to prevent mildew from growing.
Use auto polish on metal furniture frames to make them shine; make sure that the metal is not coated with a paint prior, as the polish will remove the paint. NOTE: When using new products on your furniture, test the product in a small inconspicuous area of the furniture prior to ensuring the product does not damage any metal finishing.
Use a glass cleaner on glass tabletops and don’t forget to clean the glass on the windows of your outdoor lanterns so the light shines through.
Use a kitchen degreaser on grill grates and the outside of stainless steel grills. Learn more on how to deep clean your grill.
Open your umbrella and wash the fabric with mild soap and water, and use a household oil — such as WD-40 silicone lubricant — on any moving parts to keep them working well.
Remove and discard any old potting soil from planters and clean the insides of pots with a bleach and water solution to kill any insects or bacteria that may have overwintered in the pots. Fill with fresh potting soil and put in new plants.

Don’t Sleep On Our Outdoor Furniture Design Services!

Whether you have an outdoor living space that is in need of new furniture or you are wanting to upgrade your existing furniture, Weller Brothers is the place to call. In addition to a free face-to-face design experience, Weller Brothers also offers outdoor furniture cleaning in the winter months for existing customers! This gives you the opportunity to put your furniture out of sight and out of mind, while having it ready to use as the warmer weather quickly approaches again.

Contact Us For Your Patio Upgrade

If it’s time for a new patio or quality outdoor furniture in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN, or Des Moines, IA, you’re in the right place.

Our experienced landscape design and furniture design teams will ensure your dream landscape project comes to life and stays that way. Contact us here to get started on your new outdoor living space!

Des Moines Rochester Sioux Falls

The Best Plants For Your Next Midwest Landscaping Project

The Best Plants For Your Next Midwest Landscaping Project

Living in the midwestern states is great, however some plants do not find that to be true. Not all plants thrive in the Midwest due to its climate, soil types, and other environmental factors. Plants may struggle due to the frigid winters, blazing summers, or various soil compositions. However, many native plants have adapted well to the Midwest’s conditions and flourish here.

As you begin creating your dream landscape project, there are a few things to consider when choosing a plant that will thrive in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN or Des Moines, IA.

Ensure that the plants you include in your next landscaping project are Midwest-friendly with advice from the professionals at Weller Brothers and Better Homes & Gardens.

What to Consider When Selecting your Plants

When selecting plants for the garden, USDA hardiness zones provides detail on what plants will best survive your coolest weather. The Midwest region includes plant hardiness zones 3-5.

Deciding which plants to grow in the Midwest can be tricky. Using the hardiness zone tool above, start by narrowing in on the plants that best fit your climate. A couple of other important things to consider when adding new plants to your yard is how much sunlight your plant will need and how much space you need between plants.

Recommended Plants for Midwest Landscaping from the Horticulture Team

To transform a space and create a unique experience, Weller Brothers recommends incorporating a variety of color and texture; these elements add interest and richness to any design!

Below are five examples of plants that will not only thrive in the Midwest, but also add key elements to bring your dream landscape project to life.

The Types of Plants to Consider:

- Poaceae, commonly known as grasses, have narrow leaves with parallel veins and small, inconspicuous flowers.
- Burning bush are apart of the shrub family. Shrubs are any woody plant that has several stems, none dominant, and is usually less than 3 m (10 feet) tall.
- Echinacea are flowered perennials also known as Cone Flowers, and are often cultivated as border plants.
- Yucca, which is commonly referred to as Adam’s Needle, is unforgettable for their rosettes of evergreen, tough, sword-shaped leaves and large terminal panicles of white flowers.

How to Care for your Midwest-Friendly Plants

Once you have selected the perfect Midwest-friendly plants, placing them in the appropriate area, as well as ensuring that they are getting the proper amount of sunlight and hydration, is equally important to their life span. Different types of plants require different amounts of water and sunlight. Watering properly in the summer fends off heat stress; however, make sure to avoid overwatering and wetting the leaves to prevent disease in the already-muggy conditions.

Let's Start Planting!

If the thought of designing, selecting, building, and caring for your newest landscaping project feels overwhelming, leave the hard work to the professionals at Weller Brothers in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN and Des Moines, IA.

Our experienced Landscape Design team will ensure your dream landscape project comes to life. Contact us here to request Landscape Design services.

Des Moines Rochester Sioux Falls

Eight Questions to Ask During Your Landscape Design Consultation

Weller Brothers employees discussing a design at a table

Eight Questions to Ask During Your Landscape Design Consultation

How exciting! You have decided to create your dream outdoor living space.

Whether you’re planning for a pool, outdoor kitchen, custom patio, a pergola — or, all of the above — the next step is to find a qualified designer and installation team who can design, build, and maybe even maintain, your landscaping.

You’ve searched online and found a landscaping company in your area. Now, it’s time to meet with the designer.

Before You Get Started, Ask These Eight Questions

Whether you’re in South Dakota, Minnesota, Iowa, or beyond, there are several important questions that a homeowner should ask during a landscape design consultation as you approach this huge and exciting investment.

Let’s discuss.

1. What is your design process and how do you work with clients?

The answer to this question will give you an understanding of how the designer approaches the design process and how they work with clients. Some specific things to consider when asking this question might include:

How do you begin the design process? Do you start with a consultation at my home?
Will you listen to my ideas? What if I don’t have any ideas about what I want?
How will you present your designs to me? Do you provide sketches, computer renderings, or other visual aids?
How do you handle revisions and changes to the design? Will you work with me to make changes or do you stick to the original design plan?
How do we communicate during the design process? Do you have regular check-ins or do you only communicate when necessary?

You may be working with this designer over the course of many months, or even longer. Entering into the working relationship with an overview of the process will set everyone up for success.

See what the Weller Brothers design process is »

2. How do you approach the design of outdoor spaces and what factors do you consider?

One of your main criteria in hiring a landscape designer is that they listen to your needs and desires for your space, while still bringing their own expertise and creativity.

By asking the designer about their approach to designing your space, you’ll set expectations at the beginning of the relationship.

Some examples of factors to discuss include:

Incorporating elements like plants, hardscaping, lighting, and other features into your designs — does the designer have a specific approach to incorporating these elements, or do they take a more flexible approach?
Designing outdoor spaces that are functional and aesthetically pleasing — how does the designer balance these two goals?

3. Can you provide examples of your work and references from past clients?

If the answer to this question is “no,” find a new landscape designer.

Work examples and customer testimonials will both attest to the quality of the designer’s work and communication, as well as provide clarity as to whether or not the designer’s style is right for you.

At Weller Brothers, we create landscape tours and client testimonials for many of our landscape design projects. This shows potential customers that our designers and team provide quality and trusted service in Rochester, Des Moines, and Sioux Falls. Plus, they’re just really fun to share!

Weller Brothers customers filming a testimonial video in their backyard.

Another important thing to consider when looking at a designer’s past work is if it’s similar in style or scope to your project.

Do they have experience designing outdoor spaces that are similar to yours in terms of size, layout, and other characteristics? If they don’t, perhaps there is another designer on their team who is a better fit for your project.

For example, while all of our designers at Weller Brothers are very talented and experienced, we have one who designs many of our commercial projects and another who loves to work with natural grasses in his designs.

A landscape project is a large investment; take the time to find the designer who can best create what you’re dreaming of.

4. Can you provide an estimate for the cost of the design and any additional services?

Big question, right? You’re probably walking into this meeting with a budget, and maybe you’ve already consulted a budget guide.

Of course, you want to know what this project will cost and what expenses may come up along the way. Maybe you have a budget in mind and you need a designer who can work within those constraints.

Communication is key here.

First, the designer should be able to provide a detailed estimate of the cost of the design process, including any consultation fees, site analysis fees, and design fees.
How about any additional costs that may arise during the design process, such as changes to the design or unexpected challenges that may require additional work or resources? If so, how will the designer handle these costs?

A clear, upfront conversation about all costs associated with your landscape project will contribute to a smooth and positive experience for both you and the designer.

5. How do you address maintenance and upkeep in your designs?

As the homeowner, are you prepared to maintain your landscape once the project is complete? Do you even know what type of maintenance will be necessary?

Landscape maintenance is an important topic to discuss with your designer because you certainly don’t want your new project to look abandoned and overgrown in a few years.

If desired, can your designer incorporate low-maintenance plants? Does the company offer ongoing maintenance services to keep your new landscape looking pristine? If so, what’s the estimated cost?

A beautiful landscape is a place to create a lifetime of memories – but it’s also a lifetime of commitment. How can your designer help you prepare for that commitment?

6. Can you provide a timeline for the design process and any potential implementation?

Summer is coming, and you want to be enjoying that new patio and fire pit ASAP – we get it.

Just like the budget topic, it’s important to set clear expectations about the project timeline from the beginning. How long will the design process take? When will the work begin? When can I finally dive into my pool?

Other factors that may impact the timeline for the design process or implementation include weather, the availability of materials, and subcontractors. With the freezing Midwest winter, perhaps a larger project needs to be executed in phases.

Communication is key!

7. How do you handle any changes or revisions to the design?

Things happen. Minds change. New ideas take root. So, what happens if you want to revise your landscape design?

Obviously, after a certain point in the timeline, this may not be possible. But, it’s also important that you and the designer work together to create a landscape design you’ll be happy with for years – even if it takes a few revisions.

During the initial design process, does the designer allow a certain number of revisions? Is there a cost associated with revisions?

What if you want to make a change after the groundbreaking?
How does the designer handle changes or revisions to the design after the design process is complete and the design has been implemented?
Do they offer any warranty or support for changes or revisions made after the design process is complete?

Understanding how the designer handles changes or revisions to the design will help you feel confident that the final design meets your needs and preferences.

8. What is your approach to sustainability and environmentally-friendly design practices?

Some people care deeply about sustainability in their landscaping and all areas of their lives. This may be you!

If sustainability is an important consideration in your Midwest landscaping, bring it up with your designer. He or she may have experience with drought-tolerant plants, rainwater harvesting systems, or incorporating natural grasses into the design.

In general, landscape sustainability boils down to a few key factors (including water usage and types of plants), so an experienced designer will help you find a design solution that you’re comfortable with.

Found the Right Designer? Now the Fun Begins

Once you’ve identified a landscape designer and covered all the bases above, you’ll be amazed at how your outdoor space will transition over the next few months.

We’re so excited for you!

If you’re in the Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN, or Des Moines, IA, area and still looking for the right landscape designer, we’d love to learn more about your goals.

Learn more about our services and processes and reach out if you’re ready to schedule a consultation.

Des Moines Rochester Sioux Falls