Good Morning, Happy Monday!

Spring has officially arrived in the Poconos… and if you’re anything like me—a proud member of the “survival of the fittest gardener” club—you’re looking around your property thinking, “Alright… what can I plant that won’t die AND will actually help my business?”

Here’s the good news: landscaping isn’t just about looking pretty. It can quietly solve problems, elevate the guest experience, and even save you money.

So here’s your low-tech, high-impact spring checklist:

Plant a privacy screen
A row of arborvitae along your backyard or deck can work wonders—creating a natural barrier between you and the neighbors while also helping to dampen noise. It’s like adding a fence… but prettier.

Strategically place a tree (or two)
Got a not-so-charming view? A neighboring property that’s a little… “work in progress”? A well-placed tree can block sightlines and instantly elevate what your guests see (and photograph).

Lean into perennials for easy color
Think black-eyed Susans, coneflowers, hostas, daylilies. Plant them once, enjoy them for years. They come back stronger each season and give you those “wow” pops of color without the annual re-spend.

Create a guest-friendly herb garden
Mint, basil, rosemary, parsley—easy to grow and a fun little surprise for guests who love to cook (or muddle a cocktail ). Bonus points if you add a small sign inviting them to snip what they need.

Define spaces with landscaping
Use shrubs, grasses, or flower beds to subtly guide how guests use your outdoor areas—separating fire pit zones, play areas, and quiet spaces without needing signage.

Add a little sound buffering
Dense plantings (like evergreens or tall grasses) can help absorb sound—great for properties where you want to be extra mindful of neighbors.

Boost curb appeal (and bookings)
First impressions matter. A few well-placed planters at the entrance or along walkways can instantly elevate your listing photos—and your guests’ arrival experience.

Think pollinators = personality
Planting flowers that attract butterflies adds life and movement to your property. It’s subtle, but guests notice (and love it).

Go low maintenance where it counts
Mulch beds, native plants, and drought-resistant options mean less work for you and your team… and fewer mid-season “uh oh” moments.

At the end of the day, landscaping is one of those rare wins—it’s affordable, practical, and impactful. No apps, no subscriptions, no complicated systems… just good, old-fashioned solutions that quietly make your property better.

And the best part? You don’t have to be a “master gardener” to make it work.

Just a little strategy… and maybe a little luck.

Happy planting!
~Rebecca

P.S. Just like those perennials you plant once and enjoy year after year… our membership keeps growing.  If you’ve been thinking about getting more rooted in a community of like-minded STR owners, we’d love to have you join us.