Specifications include, but are not limited to: (1). Ground Cover/Flowerbeds a. The Contractor shall maintain ground cover at a height of no more than one foot (1’), or as close to the soil surface as the particular ground cover species will allow. b. The Contractor shall remove leaf litter, dead vegetation, and debris from ground cover beds, either manually or by raking. c. The Contractor shall remove weeds in a manner so as to not injure ground cover or inhibit health and growth. d. The Contractor shall maintain soil in a loose, friable condition, and shall replace topsoil to bring back to original grade if eroded. (2). Shrubs, Bushes and Trees a. The Contractor shall prune in a manner consistent with the natural form of the plant to: remove cross branches, improve structural integrity, influence flowering, improve light and air penetration, de-sucker, remove dead or diseased limbs, improve appearance, and control size. There shall be adequate clearance so plant limbs and/branches do not touch the ground. b. The Contractor shall remove leaf litter, dead vegetation, and debris from plants. c. The Contractor shall ensure that plants do not overhang curbs, sidewalks, parking spaces, driveways, doorways, and windows to prevent safety and security hazards. d. The Contractor shall prune back any limbs and branches touching the structure to a minimum of two feet (2’) away. e. The Contractor shall supply plant supports if needed at any time during the Agreement and shall reposition them as often as necessary to prevent damage to the plant. The Contractor shall eliminate them as rapidly as the plant(s) can become self-supporting. If tree supports must remain, the Contractor shall maintain them in good condition. f. The Contractor shall deep soak new shrubs, bushes, and/or trees at least monthly during the first two (2) irrigation seasons, unless local soil and moisture condition dictate otherwise for good growth.