Professional Landscaping Services in Southlake, TX

At Ellis Landscape Services, we help Southlake homeowners transform their properties into outdoor spaces that are as practical as they are breathtaking. From thoughtfully designed gardens and patios to full-scale outdoor living environments, our team provides expert landscape design, construction, and maintenance services that enhance both curb appeal and everyday enjoyment.

Best Landscaping Services in Southlake, TX

Every detail is tailored to reflect the upscale elegance of Southlake homes while complementing the lifestyle you and your family cherish.

Our approach blends artistic creativity with proven craftsmanship, ensuring your landscape is not only visually stunning but also functional and sustainable. Whether you’re starting fresh with a new build, refreshing mature landscapes, or investing in upgrades like outdoor kitchens, fire features, or elegant walkways, we deliver results that stand the test of time. With extensive knowledge of North Texas soils, plants, and climate, we select materials and greenery that thrive locally, giving you a landscape that remains vibrant year-round with less maintenance.

At Ellis, we don’t just build landscapes; we create inviting outdoor retreats that feel like a natural extension of your home. From the first consultation to long-term care, our focus is on consistency, quality, and personalized service that make your property truly exceptional.

Southlake Landscaping Services

Landscape Design & Installation

We take your ideas and turn them into a buildable, long-lasting plan that fits Southlake properties and HOA expectations. The goal is a landscape that looks polished on day one, matures beautifully, and stays practical to maintain.

What we evaluate on the site walk

• Sun and shade patterns by season
• Grade, drainage, and soil structure (including clay content common in Tarrant County)
• Views from key rooms, privacy needs, and noise sources
• Access for equipment, utilities, easements, and HOA guidelines
• How you plan to use the space: entertaining, kids, pets, gardening, or low-maintenance curb appeal

Design deliverables

• Scaled 2D plan with bed lines, plant schedule, and hardscape layout
• Optional 3D views to preview elevations, textures, and night lighting
• Material palette for pavers/stone, edging, mulch, and decorative rock
• Lighting concept for paths and focal features
• Line-item estimate with value-engineered alternatives and phasing options

Planting approach

• Native and adapted species selected for heat and drought tolerance
• Layered structure: canopy trees, understory, shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers for year-round interest
• Hydrozoning so plants with similar water needs share the same irrigation program
• Mulch and soil improvement to boost moisture retention and root development

Hardscape and edging

• Patios, walks, and steps sized for actual use patterns
• Correct sub-base depth, compaction, and edge restraints for stability
• Borders and metal or stone edging that keep beds crisp and reduce maintenance

Installation standards

• Proper planting depth with the root flare at grade and wide planting holes
• Grading for positive drainage away from structures
• Head-to-head sprinkler coverage in turf and drip in beds
• Clean, code-compliant tie-ins for irrigation and low-voltage lighting
• Tidy jobsites with daily cleanup and protection for adjacent lawns and drives

Phasing options

• Phase 1: front curb appeal (entry beds, walkway, lighting)
• Phase 2: backyard living areas (patio, shade, planting)
• Phase 3: enhancements (water feature, additional lighting, seasonal color)

Phasing keeps momentum while spreading investment without rework.

What you receive at handoff

• Final plan set and plant list for records and HOA files
• Care guide for the first season, including watering and pruning timing
• Controller settings for irrigation and a quick lesson on adjustments
• Warranty details for materials and workmanship

Outdoor Living Spaces

We turn backyards into comfortable, multi-purpose rooms that feel like a natural extension of your Southlake home. Every layout is site-driven, planned around sun and shade, views, prevailing winds, privacy, drainage, and HOA guidelines, so the space looks cohesive and stays easy to live in day and night.

Space planning that fits how you live

• Zones with a purpose: dining, lounging, cooking, play space, spa/fire features, and quiet nooks for morning coffee.
• Natural circulation: clear paths from doors to patios, grills, and yard without cutting through conversation areas.
• Right-sized surfaces: patios sized for the furniture you actually use (chairs pull-back room, traffic lanes, and service access to gates and side yards).
• Privacy & views: screening trees, trellises, or seat-walls placed to block sightlines while keeping the best views open.

Materials chosen for North Texas performance

• Pavers & modular porcelain: flexible, crack-resistant systems with replaceable units and clean modern lines.
• Natural stone (flagstone, limestone): timeless texture with thickness and base prep matched to our expansive clay soils.
• Concrete with decorative finishes: broom, salt, or scored patterns; proper subgrade and joints to handle movement.
• Slip resistance & comfort: textures and colors selected to stay cooler underfoot and reduce glare.

Shade structures that work with the sun

• Pergolas & arbors: slat spacing/angle oriented to afternoon sun; optional polycarbonate or shade canopies for rain relief.
• Pavilions: full-roof coverage with gutters, integrated lighting, heaters, and ceiling fans for real four-season usability.
• Attachment & footing design: engineered posts, concealed hardware, and footings sized for wind loads and our local soils.

Outdoor kitchens & bars

• Appliance layout: grill, side burner, fridge, sink, and trash with safe clearances and prep zones where you need them.
• Utilities: gas/electrical/water routed cleanly with shutoffs and GFCI protection; venting for built-ins.
• Surfaces: durable countertops (granite, porcelain, Dekton-style sintered stone) and masonry that matches your home.
• Storage & details: doors, drawers, and pull-outs; task lighting and USB/standard outlets where it’s practical.

Fire features for shoulder-season comfort

• Gas or wood-burning, sized to the seating circle so heat reaches people (not just the sky).
• Safety & siting: downwind of prevailing breezes, away from low branches and structures, with proper spark/ember control.
• Style: linear burners, classic round bowls, or full chimneys; optional seat-walls (typ. 18–22 in. high) to anchor the space.

Lighting that adds ambiance and safety

• Layered plan: path & step lights for movement, downlights for tables, and subtle accents on stone or trees.
• Warm LEDs (2700–3000K) with glare control; separate zones and dimming for “Everyday,” “Entertaining,” and “Late Night.”
• Future-ready: hidden conduit for later audio, Wi-Fi extenders, or additional fixtures.

Drainage & grading done first

• Positive slope away from the house, discreet collection points, and hardscape transitions that won’t pond.
• Integrated solutions: channel drains at thresholds, French drains where grades dictate, and downspout tie-ins that move water away from patios and foundations.

Build quality you can feel

• Correct base prep & compaction for patios and walks; edge restraints where required.
• Clean, code-compliant tie-ins for gas, water, and power.
• Protection & cleanup: lawn/drive shields, dust control, and daily site tidy so the project is easy to live with.

Permitting, HOAs, and logistics
We prepare HOA submittals as needed, coordinate any required permits, and stage materials to minimize disruption on tight lots or gated communities.

Care, longevity, and handoff

• Simple care guides for stone, pavers, grout/joints, and wood/metal finishes.
• Recommended sealing schedules where appropriate.
• Walkthrough at dusk to focus lighting levels and demonstrate controls.

Irrigation Systems

Southlake landscapes look their best when water is delivered precisely, enough for healthy roots, not so much that it runs off across hardscapes. We design, install, and service irrigation systems that keep planting beds, turf, and foundation areas thriving while aligning with local watering guidelines and North Texas weather.

Design that matches your property

• Hydrozones by plant type & exposure: Turf, shrubs, shade beds, and foundation zones are separated so each gets the right rate and frequency. Sun, shade, slope, and prevailing winds are factored into every zone.
• Even, efficient turf coverage: Pressure-regulated spray or rotary nozzles with matched precipitation and true head-to-head spacing reduce dry bands, pooling, and misting.
• Drip where it counts: Low-flow drip lines in beds and around foundations deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing evaporation and overspray. Dedicated deep-root bubblers for trees encourage strong root systems.
• Smart controls: WiFi controllers with rain and freeze sensors, optional flow monitoring, and app control. Programs are set for cycle-and-soak on clay soils common to Tarrant County to prevent runoff.
• Built-in reliability: Isolation valves per zone, properly sized PRVs (pressure-reducing valves) when needed, and backflow assemblies located for code compliance and easy service.

Installation standards

• Clean trenching & restoration: Neat cuts, compacted backfill, and full restoration of turf, mulch, and hardscape joints.
• Correct materials & methods: Schedule-40 PVC mains, Class-200 laterals (or as specified), purple primer/solvent-welded joints, and swing joints at heads to protect against impact.
• Protected power & wiring: Proper gauge wire with waterproof connectors in accessible, level valve boxes; labeled common and zone leads for simple diagnostics.
• Code-compliant backflow prevention: Assembly placement, elevation, and testing aligned with Texas requirements and municipal standards.
• As-builts & labeling: You receive a simple zone map and controller labeling for quick reference.

Repairs, retrofits & optimization

• Rapid repairs: Head, nozzle, and riser replacement; valve/solenoid service; leak isolation and manifold rebuilds; wire tracing and splice repairs.
• Coverage corrections: Re-spacing, re-nozzling, head height/arc adjustments, and conversion of oversprayed beds to drip.
• Efficiency upgrades: Pressure-regulated bodies, high-efficiency rotary nozzles, check-valve heads on slopes, and smart controller swaps—improving performance without a full re-pipe.

Seasonal service for year-round reliability

• Spring start-up: Zone-by-zone testing, nozzle cleaning, arc/radius tuning, pressure checks, and programming for early growth. Sensor verification included.
• Mid-season audit: Distribution checks, runtime optimization for heat, drip/filter flushes, and head leveling after settling.
• Fall & winter prep: Reduced schedules for cooler weather, freeze-event protection for backflow assemblies, quick drain-downs (and blowouts where appropriate), plus a note of any off-season fixes to tackle before spring.

Programming with conservation in mind

• ET- and weather-aware schedules: Automatic seasonal adjustments and rain/freeze shutoffs to avoid waste.
• Micro-climate routines: Separate programs for turf vs. beds, sun vs. shade, and slopes vs. flats.
• Local guideline alignment: Day/time settings configured to meet Southlake/Tarrant watering rules and avoid citations.

What you can expect

• Site audit & plan: We map zones, evaluate pressure/flow, and document issues.
• Clear estimate: Line-item pricing with options for phased upgrades.
• Professional install: Respectful crews, tidy jobsite, and careful restoration.
• Hands-on walkthrough: We show you the controller, app features, and how to make simple adjustments.
• Ongoing support: Fast repairs, seasonal tune-ups, and easy add-ons as your landscape evolves.

Ready to protect your landscape with a smarter system? Tell us about your property, and we’ll recommend the right mix of smart controls, efficient hardware, and dependable maintenance tailored to Southlake conditions.

Landscape Lighting

Lighting adds safety, security, and nighttime curb appeal to Southlake homes. We design low-voltage LED systems that highlight architecture and plants, make walkways easy to navigate, and create a warm ambiance on patios, without glare or light trespass. Every plan is tailored to your site, HOA expectations, and how you use the space after dark.

Path & Accent Lighting (what we light and why)

• Paths, steps, and drive edges: Even pools of light guide movement and reduce trip hazards.
• Trees and garden features: Uplights and cross-lights reveal form, bark texture, and seasonal color.
• Façades and stonework: Grazing and washing create depth and highlight architectural lines.
• Patios, decks, and pergolas: Downlights and under-cap fixtures provide comfortable task and ambient light.

Techniques that elevate the look

• Uplighting: Narrow beams for columns and trunks; wider beams for canopies and walls.
• Grazing: Fixtures close to stone or brick to pull out texture with subtle shadow.
• Washing: Wide, soft beams for even illumination on smoother surfaces.
• Downlighting (“moonlighting”): Elevated fixtures for natural, dappled light over seating and paths.
• Silhouette & shadow play: Backlighting or aiming through foliage for striking outlines and patterns.

LED, optics, and color (the quality of light)

• Warm 2700–3000K LEDs flatter masonry and foliage and blend with interior light.
• High CRI (80–90+) keeps greens, woods, and stone tones accurate.
• Interchangeable optics (12° to 60°) match beam spread to the subject so brightness looks even.
• Dimmable drivers allow scene setting for “Everyday,” “Entertaining,” and “Late Night.”

Controls and convenience

• Photocell + timer for dependable dusk-to-curfew schedules.
• Smart transformers (app control) for scenes, dimming, vacation mode, and alerts.
• Separate zones for paths, trees, and façades so you control each area independently.
• Motion-assist options at entries/driveways for a temporary boost without harsh floodlight spill.

Materials built for Texas weather

• Cast brass or architectural-grade aluminum fixtures with sealed optics and UV-stable finishes.
• Hub/T wiring with gel-filled connectors reduces voltage drop and simplifies service.
• Appropriately sized, labeled transformers with surge protection and secondary breakers.
• Concealed cable runs at proper burial depth; neat conduit where required.

Glare control & dark-sky awareness

• Shields, louvers, and precise aiming keep light on target and out of windows.
• Full-cutoff options near property lines; down-aimed beams to minimize spill.
• Balanced brightness across zones so the scene reads comfortably, not stark.

Installation standards

• Night-time focusing visit to fine-tune aiming and brightness.
• Clean restorations of mulch, turf, and joints; labeled zones at the transformer.
• GFCI-protected power, grounded connections, and wet-location junctions per code.

Maintenance & care

• Seasonal re-aiming as plants grow, plus lens/hood cleaning for crisp output.
• Voltage/load checks to keep zones uniform as fixtures are added or foliage changes.
• Fast swap of any damaged fixtures or chewed cabling with matching components.

Service menu (Southlake Lighting Services include):

• Path and accent lighting for safe navigation and focal highlights
• Tree and façade illumination using uplight, wash, and graze techniques
• Motion sensors and timers for security and convenience
• LED energy-saving systems that perform in heat, wind, and storms

Southlake Lawn & Bed Maintenance

Overview
A great design stays great with consistent care. Our Southlake maintenance crews keep turf, beds, and shrubs looking their best with predictable schedules, clean workmanship, and notes after each visit when we spot issues such as irrigation leaks, pests, or drainage concerns. Services are tailored to your property, HOA expectations, and how you use the space.

Turf Care (Bermuda, St. Augustine, and Zoysia)

Proper mowing heights

• Bermuda: 2.0–3.0 in. (lower in peak growth if level)
• St. Augustine: 3.0–4.0 in. for thicker, shade-tolerant blades
• Zoysia: 2.0–2.5 in. (keep a touch higher during extreme heat)

• The one-third rule: We never remove more than one-third of the blade at a time to avoid shock.
• Sharp blades & patterns: We keep blades sharp and alternate patterns to reduce rutting and scalping.
• Edges & detail: Clean edging along walks, drives, and bed lines; string trimming around trees and fixtures.
• Clippings: Mulch mow by default to return nutrients; bag on request for early spring or heavy seedheads.

Bed Maintenance & Mulch

• Weed control: Hand-pull in sensitive beds; targeted, labeled treatments where appropriate.
• Edge definition: Re-cut edges so lines stay crisp and beds don’t creep into turf.
• Mulch refresh: Maintain 2–3 inches for moisture retention and temperature moderation; top off seasonally.
• Soil health: Add compost where beds need organic matter; light cultivation to break crusting without harming roots.
• Rock & DG beds: Rake and re-level decorative rock or decomposed granite; reset edging if migration occurs.

Shrub, Hedge & Ornamental Care

• Pruning by plant type: Timing aligned to bloom cycles and growth habit (renewal pruning for woody shrubs, light shearing for formal hedges, selective cuts for natural forms).
• Ornamental trees: Structural thinning of small trees, suckers removed, and clearance maintained around paths and roofs.
• Deadheading & cutbacks: Seasonal refresh for perennials; removal of spent growth to encourage new blooms.

Seasonal Color & Enhancements (Optional)

• Annual rotations sized to entries and focal beds with soil amendment and slow-release fertilizer.
• Bulb & perennial upgrades for longer-lasting displays with lower maintenance.
• Container design for porches, pools, and outdoor rooms—irrigated where feasible.

Fertility, Weed & Pest Monitoring

• Turf nutrition: Scheduled, turf-specific feedings matched to grass type and season; iron supplements for summer color when needed.
• Pre- and post-emergent timing: Spring/fall windows targeted to suppress common weeds without over-application.
• Integrated pest monitoring: We scout for chinch bugs, grubs, fungal leaf spot, and take action only when thresholds warrant—prioritizing least-disruptive solutions.

Irrigation Checkups (Light Tune-ups Included)

• Zone run tests to confirm coverage and head height/arc.
• Controller tweaks as growth rates and temps change.
• Minor fixes (nozzle swaps, small leaks, simple head resets) handled on the spot; larger repairs are quoted before work.

Seasonal Cleanups

• Spring: Cutbacks, bed prep, pre-emergent, first mulch, early-season pruning.
• Summer: Heat-readiness checks, mulch touch-ups, irrigation optimization.
• Fall: Leaf removal, perennial shaping, winter annuals (optional).
• Winter: Storm debris clearing, selective pruning, freeze-readiness for irrigation and tender plants.

Visit Checklist (What Happens Each Service)

• Walk the property and confirm scope for the day.
• Mow, trim, edge, and blow down hard surfaces.
• Weed and touch up beds; note mulch or plant needs.
• Quick irrigation glance—flag leaks or coverage issues.
• Leave the site tidy and share notes on any recommended actions.

Service Plans

• Weekly (Peak Season): Ideal for Bermuda and active landscapes.
• Bi-weekly (Shoulder Seasons): Keeps growth in check as temps moderate.
• Monthly Bed Care: Dedicated detail visit for weeds, pruning touch-ups, and mulch.
• Comprehensive Annual Plan: Bundles turf care, bed maintenance, irrigation checks, and seasonal cleanups into a single, predictable agreement.

HOA & Communication

• We align tasks with HOA standards, schedule noisy work thoughtfully, and provide documentation/photos when approvals are needed.
• You’ll receive clear updates after visits—what we did, what we noticed, and any next steps.

Sustainability, Built In

• Mulch + compost to build soil and reduce water demand.
• Right plant, right place to cut inputs and improve success.
• Water-wise practices (drip in beds, cycle-and-soak on clay soils) to limit runoff.

Ready to keep your Southlake property looking sharp year-round? Tell us your preferred schedule and priorities, and we’ll tailor a maintenance plan that fits your home, your HOA, and your budget.

Water Features

Overview
Water features add movement, sound, and a focal point that makes outdoor spaces feel finished. For Southlake homes, we design recirculating systems that fit your architecture and maintenance goals; from compact, pondless waterfalls to statement fountains and serene koi ponds. Each build is engineered for North Texas soils and weather, with hidden infrastructure that keeps water clear and equipment protected.

Design that matches your space (and your sound preference)
Scale & proportion: Basin size, weir width, and fall height are sized to patios, sightlines, and setbacks so the feature feels intentional rather than oversized.

• Sound tuning: We design to your preferred volume—soft “spa” trickle near conversation areas, or a bolder cascade to mask street noise.
• Splash control: Catch basins, grating, and rock placement limit loss to wind and evaporation, protecting nearby stone and plantings.
• Finish coordination: Stone, boulders, and cap materials are selected to complement existing patios, edging, and the home’s façade.

Feature types & where they shine

Pondless waterfalls & bubbling rocks (low-maintenance)
Recirculating systems spill over stone into a hidden reservoir—no open pond to manage. Great for entries, side yards, or family spaces where you want the sound of water without fish care.
Why homeowners love them: compact footprint, kid- and pet-friendly, easy upkeep.

Architectural fountains (modern or classic)
Basins with scuppers, spillways, or bowls create a sculptural moment near entries or courtyards. LED submersible lights add drama at night.
Best for: front approaches, formal gardens, and spaces where symmetry matters.

Ponds & streams (ecosystem-focused or koi)
Naturalistic layouts with shelves for marginal plants, optional stream returns, and biological filtration.
Best for: larger backyards where you want habitat, reflection, and a slower, garden-like feel.

Engineering for clarity and reliability

• Circulation & filtration: Correct pump sizing (gallons per hour) for desired turnover, skimmers for debris, mechanical filters for fines, and biofalls media for beneficial bacteria.
• Plumbing & power: Schedule-40 PVC, unions and valves for service, and GFCI-protected electrical with drip loops and weather-rated connections.
• Access & concealment: Equipment pads tucked out of sight with service access; hose bibs nearby for top-offs and cleaning.
• Foundation-friendly siting: Setbacks and liners protect adjacent hardscape and structures; overflow routes tie into drainage so big rains don’t pond.

Lighting that brings water to life

• Submersible LEDs (warm 2700–3000K) to backlight spills and create sparkle after dark.
• Accent uplights on boulders, surrounding plants, or a sculptural element for depth.
• Separate zones & dimming so you can set “Evening,” “Entertaining,” or “Late Night” scenes.

Safety, code, and best practices

• Electrical to code: Wet-location boxes, sealed gaskets, proper bonding/grounding, and labeled circuits.
• Water supply & backflow: Auto-fill options with proper backflow prevention where tied to potable lines.
• Child & pet awareness: Pond edges with gentle shelves, grates over deep basins in family areas, and non-slip stone near splash zones.

Maintenance options (pick your level)

• Essential (pondless/fountain): Skim debris, rinse pre-filters, top off water, and occasional clarifier—quick monthly care.
• Ecosystem pond care: Filter pad cleaning, plant trimming, beneficial bacteria doses, and seasonal netting for leaves.
• Pro service plans: Scheduled visits for water testing, pump inspection, lighting checks, and winter prep.

Seasonal care for North Texas

• Spring: Deep clean if needed, restart pumps, treat string algae early, refresh rock/gravel as required.
• Summer: Monitor evaporation, verify auto-fill, and check lighting and GFCI.
• Fall: Leaf nets on ponds, trim back aquatic plants, adjust flow to reduce splash.
• Winter: Most systems run year-round here; we protect lines/pumps during hard freezes and can throttle flow to prevent icing on walkways.

Integrating with your landscape

• Planting palettes: Moisture-loving plants near splash zones, sun/shade pairings that thrive with reflective light, and evergreens for year-round structure.
• Hardscape tie-ins: Seat walls and viewing pads that invite you closer; path lighting to guide evening strolls.
• Drainage harmony: Overflows directed to swales or drains; no conflict with downspouts or irrigation.

What you receive at handoff

• Clear equipment map and valve locations
• Care guide with cleaning intervals and safe treatments
• Demonstration of pump priming, auto-fill, and lighting controls
• Warranty documentation for pumps, liners, and fixtures

Ready to add movement and calm to your Southlake yard? Tell us the vibe you’re after, spa-quiet or statement showcase, and we’ll design a water feature that sounds right, looks right, and runs reliably for years.