Occasionally, because Bedico Creek Preserve is such a popular neighborhood on the northshore of Lake Pontchartrain in New Orleans, Louisiana, we will have newspaper, magazine, and online articles and blogs written about our master-planned community. We feature these articles in our Press Room area. Also, we sometimes create press releases for special news and events that are happening at Bedico Creek Preserve. You can find all of this information, plus make media inquiries all right here in our Press Room.
Enjoy live music in Bush.
Jazz’n the Vines Spring Concert Series
April 5, 2025
6:30PM
Wildbush Farms Vineyards
81250 Old Military Rd.
Bush, LA 70431
Admission: $12 ages 18+, $5 ages 13-17, free ages 12 and under
Imagine stepping into your backyard and being greeted by a lush, vibrant landscape that looks beautiful year-round — without the need for constant mowing, pruning, and weeding. It’s a gardener’s dream: a yard that takes care of itself.
Unfortunately, in Louisiana’s warm, wet climate, that dream is more fantasy than reality.
With a long growing season and near-perfect conditions for weeds to thrive, even the most cleverly designed, low-maintenance landscape will need some upkeep. Gravel, pavers, and decorative rocks may cut down on mowing, but they’re not immune to weed invasions. Dirt and seeds find their way in through wind, wildlife, and rain — and the battle begins again.
Still, with the right strategy, you can create a landscape that’s not only beautiful but also manageable. The key lies in choosing the right plants, placing them wisely, and embracing a few design principles that reduce, rather than eliminate, your workload. Here are three practical steps to get you started.
Trees are the backbone of any landscape. They provide shade, habitat for wildlife, and lasting visual impact. Though they require some attention when first planted — mainly watering during establishment and dry spells — they’re relatively low-maintenance in the long term.
Start by assessing existing trees or selecting new ones suited to your yard’s size and conditions. For storm resistance, native trees like bald cypress, pond cypress, live oak, and Southern magnolia are excellent choices. For seasonal beauty, look to ornamental varieties such as Japanese maples or Taiwan cherry trees, which bring bold color in fall and late winter.
If raking leaves isn’t on your list of favorite weekend activities, opt for evergreen trees that hold their foliage year-round. And when planting, remember to leave enough space between trees and nearby buildings or structures to avoid future problems with overhanging branches or root interference.
Once your tree plan is in place, turn your attention to shrubs — the sturdy, long-lived plants that bridge the gap between buildings and nature. These “foundation plantings” anchor the visual layout of your garden, providing structure and color throughout the year.
Aim for a mix that favors evergreens over deciduous shrubs. A good rule of thumb is 75% evergreen to 25% deciduous. This ensures that your garden doesn’t look barren in winter when many plants go dormant.
Choose shrubs suited to your yard’s conditions — sunny, shady, or a mix — and prioritize varieties that don’t demand constant pruning. Camellias, especially sasanqua and hiemalis types, are a standout for Louisiana gardens. They tolerate varying light conditions, bloom in the cooler months, and offer food for pollinators during a time when few other plants do.
Other reliable options include Japanese yew for screening, Florida sunshine anise for bright color in shade, and dwarf hollies for neat, compact hedges.
Weed management is one of the biggest challenges in a Louisiana landscape, but it can be significantly reduced with smart design.
Mulch is your best friend here. Wide mulch beds around trees and shrubs suppress weed growth, conserve moisture, and enrich the soil. There’s no need to clutter these beds with extra plants or border grasses — the mulch alone provides a clean, finished look.
If you prefer a living groundcover, be prepared for some upkeep. Low-growing varieties like dwarf mondo grass don’t fully block out weeds and may require occasional hand pulling. For lower maintenance, consider more aggressive groundcovers like aspidistra, or cast iron plant, which are better at outcompeting unwanted growth.
Hardscaping — using gravel, pavers, concrete, or decorative rocks — can also help minimize lawn space and reduce mowing. But remember, even the best-designed hardscapes aren’t maintenance-free. Weeds will eventually appear in the gaps, and regular spot treatment or hand weeding will be necessary to keep things looking neat.
While the idea of a truly no-maintenance landscape might be out of reach in Louisiana, you can certainly create a space that doesn’t demand your every free weekend. With thoughtful plant selection, strategic layout, and an understanding of what works in this climate, a beautiful and relatively easy-to-maintain yard is entirely achievable.
It won’t be effortless — but it can be effortless enough. And in Louisiana’s rich and unpredictable landscape, that’s a win worth planting for.
For many first-time homebuyers, the focus is on securing a mortgage and covering the down payment. However, beyond the purchase price, homeownership comes with a range of hidden costs that can quickly add up. Understanding these ongoing expenses is essential to ensuring financial stability after moving in.
Beyond the Mortgage: The Ongoing Costs of Owning a Home
While a mortgage payment is the most obvious cost of homeownership, additional expenses such as property taxes, homeowners insurance, maintenance, and utilities can significantly impact a homeowner’s budget. According to a Bankrate study, the average hidden cost of homeownership in the U.S. is approximately $18,000 per year.
Some of these expenses are unavoidable, while others can be managed with careful financial planning. Homebuyers should take these costs into account before making a purchase to avoid unexpected financial strain.
Major Homeownership Expenses to Expect
Property Taxes
Property tax rates vary by location and are based on the assessed value of the home. For example, in Miami-Dade County, a home assessed at $300,000 would incur annual property taxes of around $2,900, or roughly $240 per month. Homebuyers should research their local tax rates and factor this expense into their monthly budget.
Homeowners Insurance
A mortgage lender will require homeowners insurance, which protects against damage from fires, floods, and other disasters. It also provides liability coverage in case someone is injured on the property. The average annual premium for homeowners insurance is approximately $2,270 for a policy with $300,000 in dwelling coverage, which equates to about $189 per month.
Maintenance and Repairs
Unlike renters, homeowners are responsible for all maintenance and repairs, which can be costly. Common expenses include:
Additional expenses such as electrical repairs, mold remediation, and pest control can also arise unexpectedly, making an emergency fund a necessity.
HOA and Condo Fees
Homeowners in certain communities may be required to pay homeowners association (HOA) or condo fees, which cover maintenance, landscaping, and amenities such as pools or clubhouses. The average monthly HOA fee is around $200, but costs can vary significantly based on location and community features.
Utility Costs
Utilities, including electricity, gas, and water, are essential expenses that cannot be overlooked. The average U.S. household spends approximately $430 per month on utilities, according to Forbes. Some homeowners also include internet, phone, and streaming services in their monthly budget.
Landscaping and Exterior Upkeep
Homeowners must also maintain their property’s exterior. Landscaping costs can range from simple lawn care to more complex services like tree trimming, leaf removal, and drainage solutions. Professional landscaping services typically charge between $50 and $100 per hour, though homeowners can save money by handling some tasks themselves.
Financial Planning for Homeownership
Creating a Realistic Budget
A well-structured homeownership budget should account for all ongoing expenses, including mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance. One useful approach is the 50/30/20 budgeting rule, which recommends:
Building an Emergency Fund
Experts recommend setting aside three to six months’ worth of expenses in an emergency fund to cover unexpected repairs or financial setbacks. A high-yield savings account with automatic transfers can make it easier to build this fund over time.
How to Minimize Hidden Homeownership Costs
Homeowners can take steps to reduce ongoing expenses and avoid unnecessary financial burdens.
The Long-Term Impact of Homeownership Costs
Buying a home is one of the most significant financial decisions a person can make. While the hidden costs of homeownership may seem overwhelming, planning ahead and creating a financial cushion can make these expenses more manageable.
By being aware of these ongoing costs and preparing accordingly, homeowners can protect their investment and enjoy long-term financial stability.
Homebuyers face a crucial decision when entering the market: purchasing a newly built home or opting for an existing property. Each choice offers unique benefits and drawbacks, influenced by factors such as budget, location, maintenance needs, and long-term goals.
Understanding the differences between these options can help buyers make an informed decision based on their personal circumstances.
Weighing Key Considerations Before Buying
The decision between a new home and an existing home largely depends on a buyer’s long-term plans and financial situation. Several key factors should be considered before making a final choice:
Both options come with trade-offs, and determining the best fit depends on what a buyer prioritizes in a home purchase.
Advantages and Drawbacks of New Construction
New homes are built with the latest materials and often feature energy-efficient designs. Buyers can choose between production homes—built within a larger subdivision with limited customization—or fully custom-built properties designed to their exact specifications.
Pros of New Construction:
Cons of New Construction:
Although new construction often costs more upfront, buyers benefit from fewer repairs and modern features that align with current building standards.
Existing Homes: Pros and Cons
For those seeking character, convenience, and well-established surroundings, purchasing an existing home may be the better choice. Older homes tend to be located in desirable areas with mature trees, local amenities, and developed infrastructure.
Pros of Buying an Existing Home:
Cons of Buying an Existing Home:
While existing homes can be more affordable initially, buyers should budget for potential upgrades or renovations needed to modernize the property.
Which Option is Best?
The choice between a new home and an existing property depends on a buyer’s financial position, flexibility, and willingness to take on maintenance. Those prioritizing customization, energy efficiency, and low-maintenance living may lean toward new construction. Meanwhile, buyers looking for affordability, established neighborhoods, and quicker move-in timelines might find existing homes a better fit.
For those uncertain about which route to take, working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help navigate the decision. Regardless of the choice, securing mortgage preapproval ensures a buyer is financially ready to make a competitive offer when the right home comes along.
Past concerts include performers such as The Steve Anderson Band in Covington.
Sunset at the Landing Concert
Columbia Street Landing on the Bogue Falaya River
100 N. Columbia St.
Covington, LA 70433
March 21, 2025
6PM – 9PM
Free Event!
Come see this production live in Covington.
They Promised Her the Moon
Playmakers Inc.
19106 Playmakers Rd
Covington, LA 70435
March 15 – 30, 2025
Every Saturday 7pm and Sunday 2pm
Tickets: $15 – $30
Click Here for More Information.
