This Yankton landscape project transformed a steep, blank yard into a stunning poolside retreat with native plants, engineered retaining walls, and uninterrupted views of the Missouri River.
Continue readingPickleball and Purington Pavers
Pickleball and Purington Pavers

Design by
Chad Kasten
When our clients came to us, they had a backyard full of potential but faced a significant challenge — an existing slope that made the space feel disconnected and underutilized.
They envisioned a retreat where the entire family could spend time together, with dedicated areas for both relaxation and play.
Creating Multi-Level Functionality
To maximize the space, we designed a series of intentional levels, turning the slope into an asset rather than a limitation. A boulder wall and natural stone steps support a paver patio, creating a comfortable gathering space for the adults.
Just a few steps down, the backyard opens up to a sports court, giving the kids a place to shoot hoops or play a game of pickleball.


Blending Modern and Rustic Elements
This project balances modern convenience with rustic charm. A sleek aluminum pergola provides shade over the patio while keeping maintenance to a minimum. At the same time, we incorporated Purington pavers — historic bricks once used for roads across the U.S. — to bring a unique, time-worn character to the space.

The Perfect Evening Gathering Spot

Designed
the Weller Brothers Way.
Play, Lounge, Relax: A Backyard Reimagined
Play, Lounge, Relax: A Backyard Reimagined

Design by
Cole Jenkins
When our clients first approached us, their backyard had plenty of potential but was beginning to show its age. The space featured a dated patio and terrace, but it was underutilized and lacked the amenities our clients envisioned.
They wanted to incorporate a pool, a fireplace, and evening-use features — all while maintaining the existing retaining walls and addressing concerns about stray golf balls from the nearby course.



Designing a Multi-Functional Space
With a smaller backyard than typical for pool projects, we had to balance the size of the pool with the client’s needs for swimming, lounging, play areas, and social spaces. We scaled down the pool, maximizing the available space while accommodating the variety of features our clients requested.
For the hardscape, we used elements from TechoBloc and Rochester Concrete Products to ensure a cohesive design with lasting durability.
A Backyard That Works for the Family


One of the standout features is the “invisible” drain, cleverly concealed beneath the pool deck and topped with polished black pebbles. We also added a unique log starter in the fireplace and spillway bowls that cascade water into the pool, adding both beauty and functionality.
Our clients were thrilled with the result. They now have a backyard that is both visually stunning and highly functional, providing a perfect setting for creating lasting memories.
For anyone tackling a similar project, it’s a reminder that with careful planning and creative design, even a smaller space can become a dynamic, multifunctional retreat.
Designed
the Weller Brothers Way.
A Walkway Worth the Welcome
A Walkway Worth the Welcome

Design by
Ron Peterson
A large crack in the concrete sidewalk. Tired landscape beds.
“That’s just not our style,” our clients told landscape designer Ron Peterson.
We don’t blame them!
Besides the home’s existing front entrance being unsightly, it was also a tripping hazard. With a growing family and busy schedules, we took on the task of creating an appealing and low-maintenance front yard landscape.



Thoughtful Design Meets Low Maintenance Beauty
In the design, Ron selected a classy Techo-Bloc paver pattern to create an inviting front walkway that complements the home’s existing character.
Since our clients asked for “low maintenance,” we agreed on a simple plant pallet of boxwoods and hydrangeas to line the walkway and the home’s front facade.
A final touch is the landscape lighting along the walkway, providing ambiance and evening safety.






The Mailbox Challenge
We weren’t done yet!
Our clients had always wanted a permanent mailbox to complement their home.
“We have installed many masonry mailboxes, but this one had a twist,” Ron says.
The stone veneer used on the house was a special discontinued blend. Ron worked with Hebron Brick and Tile to custom-order a blend that matches the house.
“In the end, the client loved it,” Ron says. “We added a black mailbox to tie it all together and created a simple, contemporary landscape.”
Designed
the Weller Brothers Way.
A Low-Maintenance and Accessible Outdoor Retreat
A Low-Maintenance and Accessible Outdoor Retreat

Design by
Michael Blazing
When landscape designer Michael Blazing first met Bob, he was looking for inspiration for his new outdoor space on the Weller Brothers website. Bob’s goal was clear: he wanted a patio that was accessible, cohesive with his home, and, most importantly, low maintenance.
Bob’s existing outdoor space didn’t suit his mobility needs, nor did it match the style of his home. So, when he came to Michael, he knew he needed a design that would address both of these issues while offering a seamless extension of his living area.

Understanding the Vision
To start, Bob shared some of his favorite Weller Brothers projects — specifically those that featured water elements and natural stone — giving Michael a clear direction for the design. With this insight, Michael crafted a plan that would suit Bob’s needs and preferences.

Designing an Accessible Patio
The first step was designing the patio itself. Michael and the team selected large, tile-sized pavers to create a smooth and stable surface. This choice not only enhanced accessibility but also reduced the risk of issues that could arise with smaller, uneven stones.
To make the space level and usable, we added a short retaining wall with built-in seating. The wall was constructed using the same stone that adorned the exterior of Bob’s home, ensuring the patio felt like a natural extension of the house rather than a separate area.



Adding Functionality
Once the patio was in place, our team turned their attention to enhancing the space’s functionality. Bob wanted a fire pit that was both easy to use and low maintenance. We opted for a gas fire pit, which allowed him to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire without the hassle of chopping wood or cleaning out ashes. The gas firepit became a central feature, adding both elegance and serenity to the space.

The Challenge: Designing the Perfect Water Feature
While the patio and firepit came together smoothly, the real challenge lay in incorporating a water feature. Bob wanted the peaceful sound of flowing water to be audible from both the patio and the screened porch. Michael knew the water feature needed to be placed near the house to achieve this, but the real challenge was to make it visible and enjoyable from both areas.
After experimenting with several designs, Michael had a solution: two small water features, placed strategically to flow together. One feature would face the house, while the other would face the patio. This clever design ensured the water could be enjoyed from both locations and created a calming, harmonious flow that added ambiance to the entire space.

A Low-Maintenance Solution
The result was a beautiful and functional outdoor retreat that exceeded Bob’s expectations. Not only did the design enhance the home’s overall aesthetic, but the low-maintenance features were a huge win for Bob. Thanks to regularly scheduled maintenance visits from our team, Bob doesn’t have to worry about upkeep.

The Final Project
The final result transformed what was once just a house with a patio into a beautiful, functional home with an outdoor living space that Bob can enjoy for years to come — without the worry of constant lawn maintenance. It’s the perfect balance of accessibility, style, and functionality.
At Weller Brothers, we turn visions into realities while ensuring your experience is as enjoyable as your completed project. Are you ready to bring your vision to life? Let our landscape design team in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN or Des Moines, IA help you.
Designed
the Weller Brothers Way.
Short Game Goals and Cozy Nights
Short Game Goals and Cozy Nights

Design by
Chad Kasten
Every backyard tells a story, and for this recent project, that story began with potential hidden beneath outdated elements.
We couldn’t wait to bring their vision to life.


From Concept to Creation
Creating Privacy
We began by tackling privacy. The clients wanted more screening from their neighbors, so we designed a custom wood storage structure that doubles as a visual barrier. By placing it strategically near the fire pit, we created a functional and visually pleasing element that seamlessly integrates into the space.


Designing the Patio
For the patio, we selected sleek Techo-Bloc slab pavers to achieve the modern look our clients wanted. Their clean lines and contemporary style complemented the home’s existing stone veneer and brick exterior, creating a cohesive, polished feel.
Addressing the Slope
One of the bigger challenges— and opportunities — was the sloped lawn beyond the patio. To maximize usable space, we designed a block retaining wall to flatten the yard, transforming it into the perfect area for yard games.


The Final Touches
Finally, we updated the landscaping with a mix of perennials, shrubs, small trees, and upright evergreens. This combination softens the hardscape and adds year-round color and interest, making the backyard inviting in every season.



A Backyard Designed for Living

Designed
the Weller Brothers Way.
From “Very Plain Slab” to “Above and Beyond”
From “Very Plain Slab” to “Above and Beyond”

Design by
Michael Blazing
When landscape designer Michael Blazing first met Missy and George at their new home, their outdoor space was nothing but an 8′ x 10′ concrete pad.
“It was definitely an afterthought to their beautiful home,” Michael says.
But our clients wanted more for their home. They had a vision of a functional and attractive patio that complimented the size of their home and utilized the space as fully as possible.
“They knew the style they had in mind,” Michael says, “and felt that Weller Brothers was most likely to create that vision. So we got to work!”

The Design Process
Typically, our landscape designers create a design and work with our clients through revisions as needed. But not this time! Missy and George had no revisions to Michael’s initial design, which allowed our team to break ground quickly.
This backyard patio design includes
“My favorite thing?” asks George. “That’s an easy one – the grill. It opens up a lot of opportunities for us to entertain.”
While George is firing up the grill, you’ll find Missy admiring the view.
“I love the block and the materials,” she says, “and how the clean lines go so well with our home. I love it visually from out here and from inside the home.”
Michael adds that they also had some fun with the paver design to provide some interest in the firepit space.
“Overall, the design was kept pretty simple and clean, incorporating matching colors,” Michael says. “I also suggested landscape lighting for this project, which helps bring life to the space in the evening.”
The Result
“It’s just something that’s invaluable,” Missy says. “We’ll enjoy it for years; it’s good for resale. It was above and beyond what we could have asked for.”
George and Missy specifically noted the quality communication they received from the Weller Brothers team.
“They answered any questions we had throughout the process. They completed it right on schedule and kept us informed throughout the entire project.”
Michael also enjoyed designing this outdoor living space, particularly matching their home’s style with the vision for functionality. He says that his favorite part is the gas fire feature.
“It’s a pretty unique design specific to this project,” Michael says. “Missy and George weren’t sure about that feature at first, but they have expressed how much they have used it due to the ease of use.”
What Are You Dreaming Of?
Would you like a more functional and attractive backyard?
Whether you want to grill for the family, tend to a raised garden, or share laughs around the fire pit, we can help – just like we did for George and Missy.
Schedule your landscape design consultation today in Sioux Falls, Rochester, or Des Moines.
Designed
the Weller Brothers Way.
2025 Win the Day Award Nominees Announced
2025 Win the Day Award Nominees Announced

Congratulations to Seven Win the Day Award Nominees
We are excited to announce the 2025 Weller Brothers Win the Day Award nominees!
This award is the Weller Brothers version of an “Employee of the Year” award and was first introduced in 2024.
The Win the Day award is a great achievement for a Weller Brothers team member and is awarded to an individual who exemplifies our Roots daily:
- Quality
- Safety
- Communication
- “Win the Day”
For the 2025 award, seven outstanding team members were nominated by their peers.
The Weller Brothers executive leadership team will select and announce two winners in early 2025 at our team holiday party.
Congratulations!
Meet the Nominees
Each individual was nominated by a Weller Brothers teammate. Meet them below, along with thoughts from CEO Cole Weller.

Landscape Yard Manager
Travis Jensen
“Watching you work tirelessly to improve our landscape operations – often creating more work for yourself, knowing that your work makes others’ jobs easier – is a demonstration of who we are at Weller Brothers. We couldn’t do it without you!”

Account Manager
Allie Rea
“You really are an ass-kicker. Your attention to detail is second-to-none, and your passion for taking care of your clients is the Gold Standard for our whole account management team.”

Arborist
Phil Nystrom
“You are a master of your craft. Thank you for joining the Weller Brothers team. You have been an integral part of building our tree removal team.”

Utility Specialist
Garner Aasen
“You lead by example and your willingness to step up and do whatever it takes – inside or outside of your job description – is the Weller Brothers Way.”

Landscape Foreman
Nolan Meier
“Watching you grow in your role and dial in your landscape quality has been awesome to watch. You are going to continue to do great things!”

Lawn Maintenance Foreman
Cody Wood
“I’ve said it before and I will say it again. You’re just a good dude. Leading by example, taking challenges in stride, stepping up when asked, and often without being asked. You’re a great asset to our team and an example to those around you.”

Landscape Operations Manager
Tyler Nelson
“You are a great leader! You pour yourself into those on your team for the betterment of them, the landscape division, and the whole organization, and it is awesome to watch.”
Stay tuned to find out who wins! We’ll announce the two winners in January 2025.
Jill Holt Wins EMBEs 2024 Business Achievement Award
Jill Holt Wins EMBEs 2024 Business Achievement Award

Chief Operating Officer
Jill Holt
About the EMBE Awards
We are proud to announce that Weller Brothers Chief Operating Officer, Jill Holt, has been awarded the Business Achievement Award at the 2024 EMBEs Tribute to Women in Sioux Falls.
For more than 50 years, the annual EMBEs has honored individuals who exemplify EmBe’s mission and have made outstanding contributions to the Sioux Falls community. This is such an inspiring event that celebrates the leadership and success of women in Sioux Falls.
This impressive recognition highlights Jill’s exceptional leadership, innovation, and success throughout her entire career and during her time at Weller Brothers.

Celebrating Jill's Contributions to Weller Brothers
Jill began at Weller Brothers as Controller and then became CFO. Her primary focus was in finance, but her fingerprints are on almost all workflow processes, from admin to operations. The infrastructure she built as CFO provided Weller Brothers data to make better decisions and ultimately grow revenue nearly 10x since she started in 2017.
Beyond her financial expertise, Jill is a true champion of company culture. She fosters a supportive and inclusive environment, encouraging open communication and collaboration among team members. Her genuine care for the well-being of her colleagues is evident in her willingness to go the extra mile, whether it’s offering advice or simply lending an ear.
Jill’s commitment to empowering women in a male-dominated industry is equally inspiring. She has actively worked to create opportunities for female leaders within Weller Brothers, establishing the “Women of Weller” group to foster connections, support, and professional development. Her efforts have contributed to a significant increase in the number of women in leadership roles at the company.
Jill’s achievements are a testament to her exceptional leadership, innovation, and dedication. We are honored to have her on our team and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition.
How To Protect Your Plants from Animals During Winter
How To Protect Your Plants from Animals During Winter
As winter approaches, we face a new challenge: keeping plants safe from hungry animals looking for food. This can be a difficult season for animals with the snow and frigid temperatures.
Whether it is deer, rabbits, squirrels, or even domestic pets, the colder months can bring a host of critters eager to nibble on your garden.
Here’s a guide to how Weller Brothers can help you protect your plants from animal intruders in Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN, and Des Moines, IA.
Understanding the Threats
Different animals have varying habits and preferences when it comes to foraging. Below are the three most common types of furry friends that damage your Midwest vegetation.
- Deer: Often roam in search of food and munch on buds, stems, side branches, fruits, and flowers of small trees and shrubs. They can also damage tree bark by scraping their antlers and heads on tree trunks.
- Rabbits: Love to eat twigs, buds, and plant stems. When feeding on these plant stems, they may girdle the branches. Rabbits remove the bark completely around the trunks and stem of your trees, which disrupts the flow of nutrients from the leaves to the roots, leaving your trees struggling to stay healthy.
- Rodents: Mice and voles can tunnel underground, damaging roots and bulbs. Their trails can be seen as raised trails through the snow.

Physical Barriers
At Weller Brothers, we suggest utilizing physical barriers to dissuade animals from finding dinner within your landscaping. The fall season, before snowfall, is the best time to install the physical barriers. You can remove the barriers once the snow begins to melt and your regular spring yard maintenance begins.
Which type of barrier should you use?
That depends on what plant material you need to protect and from which animals. For example:
- Fencing: When installing fencing for your plants, it is important to consider what animals you are trying to deter. For rabbits and rodents, the fence should be a minimum of 4 feet tall. It should also be buried a few inches under the ground to prevent burrowing. For deer, the fence should be a minimum of 8 feet tall.
- Netting and Cloth: Use netting or burlap to cover vulnerable plants. Newly planted juniper shrubs, delicate perennials, and annuals.
- Tree guards: Are used to prevent wildlife from nibbling or rubbing bark off of the base of your tree.

Proper Fall Cleanup
Before the cold winter months hit, it is important to properly clean your yard. Fall cleanup removes leaves from your yard, makes space for new growth in the spring, and rids your yard of dangerous pests and diseases.
Leaf clutter and debris in the fall can be dangerous because they block vital nutrients to your lawn and attract many pests such as spiders, snakes, and rodents seeking shelter in the debris. A detailed fall cleanup will remove these pests from your yard and keep you and your lawn safe.
Contact Us To Protect Your Plants This Winter
Protecting your plants from animals during winter requires a combination of strategies.
Our Weller Brothers team understands the specific threats in our area and can implement effective deterrents so you can enjoy a thriving landscape when spring arrives In Sioux Falls, SD, Rochester, MN, and Des Moines, IA.