Montricher is a village at the foot of the Vaud Jura, above the plateau, known in particular for the Jan Michalski Foundation. Gardens here follow the rhythm of the neighbouring mountain: nearby forests, cooler winters than on the lakeshore, and plants that start growing a little later in spring. A gardener in Montricher knows these constraints and can take care of regular upkeep, pruning, tree work or restoring your grounds.
Climate and terrain in Montricher
The village lies at the foot of the Jura, higher up than the Vaud plateau. The climate is not that of the shores of Lake Geneva, where the vineyards enjoy mild winters: here winters are cooler, snow and frost settle in more easily, and late frosts remain possible in spring. The choice of plants, the timing of planting and the protection of delicate specimens all take this into account.
Nearby forests also shape the gardens. Plots at the forest edge are shaded for part of the day and receive plenty of leaves and needles, sometimes fallen branches after a gust of wind. Damp lingers longer, which encourages moss in lawns and on paths. The neighbouring trees, often tall, need regular monitoring.
Depending on where the plot sits, slope and aspect make a big difference: a south-facing garden warms up quickly, while one backing onto the Jura or the forest stays cool. A visit on site lets the work be adapted to your own land rather than to an average.
The gardening year in Montricher
Spring
Vegetation restarts a little later than on the lakeshore. Beds are cleared, the winter’s leaves and branches are gathered, the lawn is patched up and shrubs that need it are pruned. Frost-sensitive plantings wait until the risk of late frosts has passed. It is also the right time for a first light mow.
Summer
The lawn needs regular mowing, at a height that does not scorch it in dry weather. Vigorous hedges are trimmed once the first flush of growth is over. At the forest edge, keep an eye on low branches and on trees overhanging the house or the drive. Watering is best done early in the morning or in the evening.
Autumn
This is the busiest season for a garden close to the woods: leaf fall is heavy and must be cleared from lawns, gutters and paths. Hedges are trimmed one last time, trees and shrubs are planted, the lawn is aerated and perennials are readied for winter.
Winter
Cooler winters call for protecting whatever fears the cold: mulch around plants, fleece over delicate specimens, putting garden furniture away and draining outdoor water supplies. The dormant months suit tree pruning and formative pruning well. For clearing access in snowy weather, our guide to garden snow clearing may help.
The most requested work in Montricher
Garden upkeep at the forest edge
Land close to the woods needs closer attention: leaves, needles, moss, dead branches and shoots creeping in from the edge. A garden maintenance contract spreads these tasks across the year, with visits suited to each season, for main homes and second homes alike.
Hedge trimming
Hedges in Montricher often serve as a screen against wind, views or the road. Well trimmed, they stay dense right down to the base. Hedge trimming depends on the species planted, its vigour and the time of year: a landscape gardener knows when to step in so as not to weaken the plant.
Tree pruning
Near the forest, tall trees easily come into contact with roofs, cables or paths. Tree pruning and removal call for equipment and experience, especially on sloping or hard-to-reach land. A professional assesses the condition of the tree and what it is reasonable to do.
Preparing the garden for winter
Before the first frosts, leaves must be gathered, pruning done where needed, sensitive plants protected and water installations made safe. This preparation is part of end-of-season garden maintenance and avoids a lot of damage the following spring. For a few more tips on higher ground, see our page on mountain gardening.
Lawn mowing and care
Under trees and near the woods, lawns suffer from shade, moss and leaves. Lawn mowing and care includes regular mowing, but also aeration, overseeding and adjusting the cutting height to the season.
Worth checking before certain work
Some work depends on rules that vary by canton and by municipal regulations. This applies to tree felling, hedges on property boundaries and garden structures such as a pergola, a shelter, a wall or a pool. Check with the commune before you start: it will tell you whether a permit is required. The landscape gardener who contacts you can also point you towards the steps to take.
Making a request
- You describe your project online: type of garden, current condition, what you would like to do.
- A professional landscape gardener from the area contacts you and visits the garden if that proves useful.
- You receive a free quote and remain free to accept it or not.
To get started, you can request a quote.
Around Montricher
Gardeners in the area also work in the neighbouring communes: Apples, Orny and Morges. For an overview, see the page on gardeners in the canton of Vaud or all areas covered.
Frequently asked questions
Why call on a gardener in Montricher?
Gardens at the foot of the Jura combine cooler winters, late frosts and nearby forests. A local gardener knows these conditions and when to step in for pruning, planting or protecting plants. You save time and avoid timing mistakes.
My land is at the forest edge: what should I watch for?
Dead branches, trees overhanging the house, and the build-up of leaves and moss are the most common points. Regular visits make it possible to spot these problems before they cause damage. If you have doubts about a tree, have it examined by a professional.
When should I prepare the garden for winter?
It is best to start in autumn, before the first frosts. Leaves are gathered, pruning is finished, sensitive plants are protected and outdoor water supplies are made frost-proof. As winters are cooler than on the lakeshore, this step matters more in Montricher.
Can I hand over the upkeep of a second home?
Yes, it is a common request. A landscape gardener can visit at regular intervals to mow, prune, clear leaves and keep an eye on the grounds while you are away. Mention it in your request so that the quote reflects the frequency of visits.
Do I need a permit to fell a tree or build in the garden?
It depends on the canton and the commune’s regulations, which may govern tree felling, boundary hedges or garden structures. Check with the commune before starting work. The professional preparing your quote can also point you in the right direction.