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Green Thumb Landscaping & Design

Blog

Advice from the crew, not a content mill.

What actually grows here, what things really cost, and how to plan a project you won't regret — written by the people doing the work.

Looking for the longer reference material? Our guides section covers plant selection, paver costs, hurricane prep, and watering rules in depth.

Built-in stainless grill and sink on an outdoor kitchen counter

June 17, 2026

Outdoor Kitchens in Florida: What to Know Before You Build

Planning an outdoor kitchen in Pinellas County? Permits, materials that survive humidity, layout mistakes, and realistic budgets — from a local builder.

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Layered planting bed with river rock accents seen from above

May 13, 2026

9 Drought-Tolerant Plants That Actually Thrive in Pinellas County

A Clearwater landscaper's field-tested list of drought-tolerant, Florida-friendly plants for Pinellas County yards — with sun, salt, and spacing notes.

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Paver patio with stone border beside a garden pond

April 1, 2026

Paver Patio vs. Poured Concrete in Clearwater: An Honest Comparison

Pavers or poured concrete for your Clearwater patio? A local contractor compares real costs, cracking, repairs, and resale value in Florida sand.

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Carpenter framing a new wooden deck behind a home

March 4, 2026

How Much Does Landscape Design Cost in Tampa Bay? A 2026 Breakdown

What landscape design and installation really cost in the Tampa Bay area in 2026 — typical project ranges, what drives price, and where not to cut.

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Summer Is Near Let’s Get Those Landscapes in Order

June 6, 2022

Summer Is Near Let’s Get Those Landscapes in Order

Landscapes add beauty and value to your property; follow our nine landscaping care and maintenance tips for this summer season. Click here to read more.

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Why Paver Patios Are a Great Addition to Your Backyard

June 6, 2022

Why Paver Patios Are a Great Addition to Your Backyard

Why paver patios are worth it: durability, easy upkeep, design options and the value they add to your backyard and home.

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Pools and Spas

August 26, 2021

Pools and Spas

Whether residential or commercial property, constructing a pool and a spa can be a beautiful addition to your compound. Aside from entertainment purposes,…

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15 Best Pergola Ideas That Bring Life to Your Backyard

August 11, 2021

15 Best Pergola Ideas That Bring Life to Your Backyard

15 pergola ideas to bring your backyard to life, plus what changes in Florida: sun angle, salt air, rain, wind and heat-loving vines.

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How to Choose the Perfect Outdoor Fabric For your Outdoor Furniture

August 4, 2021

How to Choose the Perfect Outdoor Fabric For your Outdoor Furniture

Reading this article will make you an expert on How to Choose the Perfect Outdoor Fabric For your Outdoor Furniture

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The Best 20 Outdoor Plants That Require Little Water

August 4, 2021

The Best 20 Outdoor Plants That Require Little Water

Water is expensive especially in the dry months of summer and so you need to plant The Best 20 Outdoor Plants That Require Little Water

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The Best 7 Outdoor Wood for DIY Garden Projects and Outdoor furniture

August 3, 2021

The Best 7 Outdoor Wood for DIY Garden Projects and Outdoor furniture

This article lists the Best 7 Outdoor Wood for DIY Garden Projects and Outdoor furniture, that will significantly boost your property's value

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How to Get Great Sound in Your Backyard; Outdoor Speakers

August 2, 2021

How to Get Great Sound in Your Backyard; Outdoor Speakers

How to Get Great Sound in Your Backyard; Outdoor Speakers are great for hosting any parties no matter the theme, from religious to birthdays

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How to Decorate a House With No Money

August 2, 2021

How to Decorate a House With No Money

During the pandemic there has been a shortage of funds. That's why this article brings you info on How to Decorate a House With No Money

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The Best 21 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas and Designs

August 2, 2021

The Best 21 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas and Designs

This article lists The Best 21 Outdoor Kitchen Ideas and Designs, that will significantly increase the valuable of your property

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The Best 8 Landscaping Plants for Front of House

August 2, 2021

The Best 8 Landscaping Plants for Front of House

The 8 best landscaping plants for the front of a house, plus Florida-friendly swaps that thrive in Clearwater, Largo and St. Pete yards.

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The Best 10 LED Pool Light Review 2021

August 2, 2021

The Best 10 LED Pool Light Review 2021

This article lists the Top 10 Best LED Pool Light Review 2021. These will come in handy when you have a night swim or a night party

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The Benefits of Landscape Lighting Around the Home

August 19, 2019

The Benefits of Landscape Lighting Around the Home

How landscape lighting adds curb appeal, safety and evening use, and why fixture quality and installation matter.

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Best Green Egg Alternatives For Your Backyard Space

January 2, 2019

Best Green Egg Alternatives For Your Backyard Space

10 Big Green Egg alternative grills compared, gas and charcoal, with a comparison table and reviews to help you choose.

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Best Organic Fertilizers For Your Home Oasis

January 2, 2019

Best Organic Fertilizers For Your Home Oasis

10 organic fertilizers compared, why they are safer than chemical blends, and how to choose the right one for your lawn and garden.

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Choosing Wood: Patio Covers and Pergolas

July 30, 2017

Choosing Wood: Patio Covers and Pergolas

Choosing materials for a patio, patio cover or pergola: flagstone, wood and other options compared before you build.

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Guide to Your Outdoor Shading Options

July 30, 2017

Guide to Your Outdoor Shading Options

Pergolas, patio covers, gazebos, screened porches, shade sails and sunrooms compared, so you can pick the right shade for your yard.

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Your Guide to Outdoor Decks

July 27, 2017

Your Guide to Outdoor Decks

Thinking about a deck? Why it is a popular home investment, and how to plan the space and choose a contractor before you build.

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It’s in the Details

July 27, 2017

It’s in the Details

Small additions make a home and yard feel like a haven. Appearance improvements that add comfort, function and curb appeal.

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Adding a Firepit to Your Home

December 23, 2016

Adding a Firepit to Your Home

Why a fire pit becomes the spot everyone gathers, plus sizing and placement tips to plan before you add one to your backyard.

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Adding a Patio to Increase Living Space

December 23, 2016

Adding a Patio to Increase Living Space

A patio adds usable living space and value without moving. Tips for planning one that is attractive, durable and sized to your yard.

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Should You Buy an Outdoor Kitchen?

December 23, 2016

Should You Buy an Outdoor Kitchen?

Should you buy an outdoor kitchen? The pros, what to plan for, and how to decide if one fits your backyard and how you entertain.

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Reading done — ready for real answers about your yard?

Tell us about your project and we'll walk the property with you — the consultation and estimate are free.