Elementary Sensory Pathway

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Priorities: – Sensory Engagement – Child Safety – Nature Connection – Educational Experience
Challenges: – Maximizing Learning Potential – Utilizing Limited Space
Solutions: – Sensory Pathway Design – Natural Material Selection – Careful Element Placement – Native Plant Integration

Maas Verde partnered with Austin ISD to bring the district’s vision to life: creating the premier model for nature play in the United States. Our collaboration resulted in an innovative sensory pathway that redefines outdoor learning spaces for children. More than just a surface to run across, this pathway is designed to inspire observation and exploration through sight, touch, hearing, and smell. It transforms a simple walkway into an immersive educational environment that fosters a deep connection with nature.

maas verde workers installing walkway

Our approach goes beyond constructing a path. Each 3’x3′ section of the pathway offers a mini sensory adventure, incorporating materials like textured tree cookies, diverse rock and gravel arrangements, and native plants. Crunchy gravel, smooth and shiny stones, fragrant herbs, straight lines, and spirals combine to create a dynamic and interactive experience. These elements spark curiosity and invite hands-on exploration, making the sensory pathway a standout feature of the courtyard.

Safety was our top priority throughout the design process. Materials were carefully embedded to prevent shifting, non-irritating plants were selected, and the layout was designed to minimize tripping hazards. Every detail ensures children can explore freely and safely.

Sustainability was also key. By repurposing materials from the school and choosing native, low-water plants, we reduced waste and supported the local ecosystem. Surrounding garden beds further enhance the sensory experience, featuring fragrant and tactile plantings. Textural interest and “brush-by” fragrances extend the sensory engagement beyond the path itself. By favoring native species, we have taken the first step in ensuring that the plants are water wise and very tough – essential in a children’s play area!

This project is more than a landscape upgrade; it’s a model for interactive outdoor learning. By blending thoughtful design, educational intent, and ecological mindfulness, we’ve created a space where children can play, learn, and build lasting connections with nature. Maas Verde and Austin ISD are proud to offer a blueprint for schools looking to enrich outdoor education through sensory engagement.

 

 

Rain Garden & Side Yard Restoration Project

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Priorities: – Drainage Resolution – Foundation Protection – Tree Root Safety – Ground Cover Establishment
Challenges: – Deck Area Pooling – Drainage Issues – Foundation-Level Soil – Mud-Prone Areas
Solutions: – Rain Garden Construction – Site Regrading – Paver Path Installation- Strategic Gravel Placement

This landscape renovation focused on transforming a water management challenge into a thriving ecosystem by creating a 200-square-foot rain garden. Designed to naturally filter and redirect water, the garden utilizes native plants and specialized soil layers to support local biodiversity while resolving drainage issues near the deck.

Sustainable soil management was a priority along the home’s east and north sides. Through strategic regrading, we established a natural water flow that safeguards both the foundation and local groundwater systems, reinforcing our commitment to working with nature rather than against it.

House before Maas Verde landscaping

Emphasizing preservation, we repurposed existing limestone pavers into a permeable pathway surrounding the rain garden. This approach protected the mature oak trees’ critical root zones, minimized construction waste, and maintained natural water infiltration patterns.

The eastern section underwent a significant transformation, replacing bare, erosion-prone soil with a diverse mix of shade-tolerant native grasses and perennials. This resilient ecosystem now manages rainfall naturally while providing valuable wildlife habitat.

rain pit in backyard due to poor drainage

In the final phase, we replaced outdated gravel around the western deck with locally sourced, permeable granite aggregate. This choice ensures proper drainage, reduces environmental impact through lower transportation costs, and enhances water filtration.

rain garden

This project highlights how ecological landscaping principles create resilient, sustainable solutions that harmonize with natural systems. The result is a balanced landscape that effectively manages water, protects structural elements, and enhances biodiversity—all while preserving existing natural features.

Irrigation Technician

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Position summary:

This is a full-time role for a Nursery Coordinator at Maas Verde Landscape Restoration. The Nursery Coordinator is amotivated self-starter who practices the core principles of ecology to design, build, and maintain functioning landscapes.The Nursery Coordinator is vital to upholding our commitment to providing environmentally sustainable native plants, asan alternative to traditional commercial plant production. Our native plants are available wholesale and at retail-levelnurseries throughout Texas.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will:

  • Demonstrate strong customer service skills

  • Maintain a quality mindset and be self-motivated

  • Successfully work in a fast-paced environment and easily adapt to changing deadlines

  • Exhibit professionalism when interacting with customers and vendors

  • Feel comfortable communicating directly with all levels of the organization

  • Be available to work overtime as needed to meet project deadlines

  • Regularly perform work, both indoors and in the field.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office, Outlook, Teams, and general computer literacy

  • Possess strong communication skills, interpersonal skills, and a diligent work ethic

Responsibilities:

The Maintenance Account Coordinator will be responsible for:

  • Meeting with customers to discuss their evolving needs and to assess the quality of Maas Verde’s

  • relationship with them

  • Developing sales strategies for lead generation and conversion

  • Establishing and managing accounts for new and existing customers

  • Visiting jobsites to ensure quality of landscape maintenance services

  • Assisting Project Manager with bids for new and existing customers, and following up with customers

  • throughout the project life cycle

  • Conduct pre-construction field inspections and site visits

  • Coordinate with customers and Project Managers to address and resolve project issues.

  • Assign tasks to maintenance crews, monitor progress, and track hours.

  • Scheduling maintenance visits

  • Ensure timely procurement and delivery of all required construction materials

  • Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures

  • Obtain Texas Sales and Use Tax Resale Certificates, W9 forms, and/or certificates of insurance for

  • vendor setup.

  • Provide general office support, including answering phones and filing, as needed

Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED

  • 1+ years Previous experience in a sales role

  • Have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation

  • 3+ years Previous experience in landscaping, irrigation, or related field

Think you’ve found your crew? – email us at in*********@*******de.com

Nursery Coordinator

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Position summary:

This is a full-time role for a Nursery Coordinator at Maas Verde Landscape Restoration. The Nursery Coordinator is amotivated self-starter who practices the core principles of ecology to design, build, and maintain functioning landscapes.The Nursery Coordinator is vital to upholding our commitment to providing environmentally sustainable native plants, asan alternative to traditional commercial plant production. Our native plants are available wholesale and at retail-levelnurseries throughout Texas.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will:

  • Demonstrate strong customer service skills

  • Maintain a quality mindset and be self-motivated

  • Successfully work in a fast-paced environment and easily adapt to changing deadlines

  • Exhibit professionalism when interacting with customers and vendors

  • Feel comfortable communicating directly with all levels of the organization

  • Be available to work overtime as needed to meet project deadlines

  • Regularly perform work, both indoors and in the field.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office, Outlook, Teams, and general computer literacy

  • Possess strong communication skills, interpersonal skills, and a diligent work ethic

Responsibilities:

The Maintenance Account Coordinator will be responsible for:

  • Meeting with customers to discuss their evolving needs and to assess the quality of Maas Verde’s

  • relationship with them

  • Developing sales strategies for lead generation and conversion

  • Establishing and managing accounts for new and existing customers

  • Visiting jobsites to ensure quality of landscape maintenance services

  • Assisting Project Manager with bids for new and existing customers, and following up with customers

  • throughout the project life cycle

  • Conduct pre-construction field inspections and site visits

  • Coordinate with customers and Project Managers to address and resolve project issues.

  • Assign tasks to maintenance crews, monitor progress, and track hours.

  • Scheduling maintenance visits

  • Ensure timely procurement and delivery of all required construction materials

  • Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures

  • Obtain Texas Sales and Use Tax Resale Certificates, W9 forms, and/or certificates of insurance for

  • vendor setup.

  • Provide general office support, including answering phones and filing, as needed

Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED

  • 1+ years Previous experience in a sales role

  • Have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation

  • 3+ years Previous experience in landscaping, irrigation, or related field

Think you’ve found your crew? – email us at in*********@*******de.com

Maintenance Account Coordinator

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Position summary:

This is a full-time role for a Maintenance Account Coordinator at Maas Verde Landscape Restoration. TheMaintenance Account Coordinator will be responsible for managing customer accounts, ensuringsatisfaction, generating leads, and providing top-notch customer service. Maas Verde’s mission is to usethe core principles of ecology to design, build, and maintain functioning landscapes.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will:

  • Demonstrate strong customer service skills

  • Maintain a quality mindset and be self-motivated

  • Successfully work in a fast-paced environment and easily adapt to changing deadlines

  • Exhibit professionalism when interacting with customers and vendors

  • Feel comfortable communicating directly with all levels of the organization

  • Be available to work overtime as needed to meet project deadlines

  • Regularly perform work, both indoors and in the field.

  • Demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office, Outlook, Teams, and general computer literacy

  • Possess strong communication skills, interpersonal skills, and a diligent work ethic

Responsibilities:

The Maintenance Account Coordinator will be responsible for:

  • Meeting with customers to discuss their evolving needs and to assess the quality of Maas Verde’s

  • relationship with them

  • Developing sales strategies for lead generation and conversion

  • Establishing and managing accounts for new and existing customers

  • Visiting jobsites to ensure quality of landscape maintenance services

  • Assisting Project Manager with bids for new and existing customers, and following up with customers

  • throughout the project life cycle

  • Conduct pre-construction field inspections and site visits

  • Coordinate with customers and Project Managers to address and resolve project issues.

  • Assign tasks to maintenance crews, monitor progress, and track hours.

  • Scheduling maintenance visits

  • Ensure timely procurement and delivery of all required construction materials

  • Ensure compliance with all company policies and procedures

  • Obtain Texas Sales and Use Tax Resale Certificates, W9 forms, and/or certificates of insurance for

  • vendor setup.

  • Provide general office support, including answering phones and filing, as needed

Requirements:

  • High School diploma or GED

  • 1+ years Previous experience in a sales role

  • Have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record and reliable transportation

  • 3+ years Previous experience in landscaping, irrigation, or related field

Think you’ve found your crew? – email us at in*********@*******de.com

Construction Crew Member

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Location: Projects in the Central Texas Region and Beyond – Office Location – 14500 Nutty Brown Road, Austin, TX 78737

Career Level: Mid-Level Experience

Position summary:

The Construction Crew Member is an intermediate-level crew member responsible for working with other team members on all areas of operations and helps lead projects. Experience with complex landscape projects and/or work in welding and masonry is preferred. Must be able to move soil and rocks with a wheelbarrow, as well as constantly kneeling, crouching, squatting, pushing, pulling, and walking.

Essential Functions:

  • Ability to problem solve and complete complex residential and commercial landscape projects to adhere to project specifications as well as existing site conditions

  • Experienced in working on carpentry projects such as decks, fences, pergolas, and trellises

  • Experienced in installing environmental and erosion control measures such silt fence, mulch socks, tree protection, fencing, and rock berms

  • Experienced in working on steel welding projects such as edging, fences, pergolas, planter boxes, retaining walls, and trellises

  • Experienced in working on masonry projects such as retaining walls, sidewalks, and patios

  • Experienced in lifting heavy objects, using hand tools, constantly kneeling, crouching, squatting, pushing, pulling, and walking

  • Experienced in working on irrigation systems under the supervision of a licensed irrigator

  • Experienced in planting small, medium, large, and very large plants including groundcover, shrubs, and trees

  • Experienced in trimming and removing weeds, dead plants and trees, and other general landscaping maintenance duties

  • Experienced in invasive grass and plant management through trimming, pruning, removal, and herbicide application

  • Experienced in operating hand tools, power tools, and heavy machinery to effectively complete a given task

  • Experienced in working in a team to move large quantities of different landscaping materials around the job site

Responsibilities/Skills:

  • Responsible, reliable, physically able, work outdoors in the elements such as extreme heat or cold, manual labor

  • Active Learning – Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making

  • Active Listening – Giving full attention to instruction and others around you, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, not interrupting at inappropriate times and taking notes whenever is necessary

  • Complex Problem Solving – Identifying complex problems, reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions

  • Coordination – Adjusting actions in relation to others’ actions

  • Critical Thinking – Using logic and reasoning to identify the pros and cons of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems

  • Equipment Cleaning and Maintenance – Responsible for performing routine cleaning, tidying, and maintenance on equipment, tools, trucks, and trailers and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed. Specifically responsible for recording, communicating, and carrying out preventative maintenance measures such as, but not limited to, oil changes, tire rotations, tire replacements, filter changes, and any other equipment and vehicle maintenance services

  • Equipment Selection – Determining the type of tools and equipment needed to complete a task

  • Installation – Installing equipment, materials, wiring, or programs to meet specifications

  • Instructing – Teaching others to complete tasks efficiently and effectively

  • Judgment and Decision Making – Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one

  • Learning Strategies – Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things

  • Management of Material Resources – Obtaining and seeing to the appropriate use of equipment, facilities, and materials needed to do certain work

  • Management of Personnel Resources – Motivating, developing, and directing people as they work, identifying the best people for the task at hand

  • Operation and Control – Operating equipment or systems in a controlled manner with safety at the forefront

  • Repairing – Repairing machines or systems using the necessary tools

  • Social Perceptiveness – Being aware of others’ reactions and understanding why they react as they do

  • Speaking – Talking to others to convey information effectively and respectfully

  • Troubleshooting – Determining causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it

Requirements:

  • Level of Education: High School Graduate or GED

  • 1-3 years’ experience in any landscaping, construction, masonry, steel welding, arborist work, carpentry, and irrigation

Work Environment:

Outdoor work environment while performing the duties of this job, the Crew Lead is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts. The Crew Lead is occasionally exposed to fumes or airborne particles and vibration. The Crew Lead is regularly exposed to outside weather conditions. The noise level in the work environment is usually loud.

Physical Demands:

N (Not Applicable)- Activity is not applicable to this positionO (Occasionally)- Position requires this activity up to 33% of the timeF (Frequently)- Position requires this activity 33%-66% of the timeC (Constantly)- Position requires this activity 66% of the time

Physical AbilitiesNOFC
StandX
WalkX
SitX
Manually ManipulateX
GraspX
Reach OutwardX
Reach Above ShoulderX
SpeakX
ClimbX
CrawlX
SquatX
KneelX

Lift/CarryNOFC
Lift/Carry 10 lbs or lessX
Lift/Carry 11-20 lbsX
Lift/Carry 21-50 lbsX
Lift/Carry 51-100 lbsX
Lift/Carry over 100 lbsX

Push/PullNOFC
Push/Pull 10 lbs or lessX
Push/Pull 11-20 lbsX
Push/Pull 21-50 lbsX
Push/Pull 51-100 lbsX
Push/Pull over 100 lbsX

Think you’ve found your crew? – email us at in*********@*******de.com

Travis Country Water-Wise Front Yard Transformation

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Priorities: – Water Conservation – Elderly-Accessible Design – Stormwater Management – Native Plant Integration
Challenges: – Large Turf Area Removal – Drainage Issues – Accessibility Needs – Site Topography
Solutions: – Strategic Water Management – Accessible Pathways – Native Plant Selection – Functional Hardscaping

This residential transformation centered on two key objectives: creating a water-conscious landscape and ensuring accessibility for the elderly homeowner. The project qualified for the City of Austin’s WaterWise Landscape Rebate Program, demonstrating its alignment with local conservation initiatives.

The first major task involved removing 1,200 square feet of traditional turf, replacing it with a thoughtfully designed landscape that manages water more effectively. A carefully engineered swale system now captures and redirects water from downspouts, while strategically placed berms add visual interest and create optimal planting conditions.

house before major landscaping project

Accessibility was paramount in the design. We installed a stabilized granite pathway, providing a secure route from the seating patio to the yard’s corner. This surface offers reliable footing while maintaining the natural aesthetic of the space.

To enhance the landscape’s functionality and visual appeal, we incorporated multiple hardscape elements. Custom steel edging creates a clean transition between the remaining grass and the transformed area. Carefully placed boulders serve dual purposes – as informal seating and as artistic elements that ground the design.

maas verde workers adding soil

A dry creek bed serves as both a decorative feature and a functional drainage solution, directing water flow toward the side yard. The addition of juniper log edging around the mulched play area creates a natural boundary while complementing the overall design aesthetic.

The planting plan focused on shade-tolerant native species, selected for their ability to thrive in local conditions while requiring minimal water. These plants, combined with proper soil preparation and mulching, create a sustainable landscape that will mature beautifully while conserving water resources.

front yard with new plants and granite pathway

This transformation demonstrates how functional needs – water conservation, accessibility, and stormwater management – can be met while creating an aesthetically pleasing, sustainable landscape that serves both the homeowner and the environment.

Fall Aster

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Overview of Fall Aster

  • Also Known As: Aromatic Aster, Aromatic American Aster, Wild Blue Aster, Shale Aster
  • Height: 2′ – 3′
  • Color: Purple flowers
  • Bloom Time: Autumn
  • Soil Moisture: Dry, Moist
  • Heat Tolerant: Yes
  • Cold Tolerant: Yes

monarch butterfly landed on fall aster in bloom

Fall Aster (Aster oblongifolius), also known as Aromatic Aster, is a remarkable perennial that brings vibrant color to gardens when many other plants have finished blooming. Its rich purple flowers create a striking display in the autumn landscape, offering both visual appeal and ecological benefits.

This versatile plant is perfect for enhancing any outdoor space. It fits beautifully in the middle of flower beds, adding eye-catching shapes and vibrant colors. You can plant one on its own as a focal point or group several together to create a stunning purple display that really stands out. Not only does it look great, but it’s also tough enough to handle challenging weather and helps attract bees and butterflies to your yard.

Fall asters naturally spread by slowly colonizing through stolons, allowing for controlled growth with occasional thinning. For best results, consider pruning them back in June to maintain their shape and encourage fuller blooms in autumn. This hardy plant is particularly well-suited to Texas gardens but can thrive in many regions with similar climates, making it a versatile addition to any landscape.

Fall Aster offers many benefits, but it’s essential to consider your garden’s specific needs and conditions when selecting plants. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting, Fall Aster is an excellent choice if you want a low-maintenance, pollinator-friendly option that adds late-season color and enhances your landscape design. Typically flowering from late August through October, Fall Aster is perfect for extending the growing season and enhancing your garden’s aesthetics.

Full Sun

Fall asters thrive in full sun, which helps them grow strong and healthy. Sunlight encourages sturdy stems, thick leaves, and deep roots, making them more resilient during dry spells. It also improves air circulation, reducing the risk of diseases. While they can tolerate some shade, they perform best in direct sunlight, so plant them in a sunny spot for a stunning display.

Deer Resistant

Fall Asters are considered deer resistant largely because of their strong scent and slightly hairy leaves, which can discourage deer from feeding on them. Deer tend to avoid plants with bitter flavors or those that contain compounds that deter them. While no plant is entirely deer-proof, these traits make Fall Asters a less appealing choice for deer.

Texas Native

Fall asters are native to Texas, making them a great choice for local gardens. Because they’re adapted to the region’s climate, they require less water and care than non-native plants. Their resilience allows them to thrive in different soil types. As native plants, fall asters support local wildlife, helping to create a healthier ecosystem. 

rain garden

What is a Rain Garden?

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