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SOD Installation
Pavers
Flagstone and Walkways

Dooling Landscape Service in a Nutshell

Dooling Landscape Service has been proudly serving homes and businesses in Santa Clara County since 1984. We install new landscapes. This includes the installation of sod, plants, irrigation, pavers, concrete, fences, decks, waterfalls and ponds. We also renovate existing landscapes. This includes pruning, yard cleanups, demolition of old concrete and then sprucing things up with new plants and flowers. We also do landscape maintenance on commercial properties.

What our Customers Say About Us

26 March 2024

With the City of San Jose's request for commercial, industrial, and institutional properties to terminate watering of ornamental lawns and turf, Santa Teresa Hills Presbyterian Church complied and stopped watering its turf in the summer of 2022. Our turf areas (which were extensive) dyed and, of course, became unsightly. At my first meeting on-site with Tim Dooling, I knew I had found someone who was willing to work with me in bringing my landscape designs involving California natives and drought-tolerant plants to fruition. Tim shared his extensive knowledge freely, has an easy-going demeanor, always arrived on time, and was always accessible and responsive via text, phone, and email on a regular basis throughout all aspects of the project. Tim and his crew were personable and easy to work with; sensitive to church personnel and the nesting preschool on the property, and I appreciated being involved in every aspect of the transformation process that took less than a month. His estimates and final invoices were also fair and reasonable. I cannot give enough praise to Tim and his crew and highly recommend Dooling Landscape Service.

Barb Overholt

20 December 2023

We needed to update our yard and remove our dying lawn. I called and spoke with Tim at the end of June, along with 2 other companies for estimates. Tim was very pleasant and friendly and told me up front that they wouldn't be available until the following month, which I appreciated. He came by and looked at my yard to discuss what I wanted. He was just as pleasant in person and very understanding, and offered some helpful suggestions. Together we chose the pavers and rocks I wanted. I ended up going to the suppliers with my husband and chose something different. TIm was very flexible. When work got started his people were prompt and friendly. We then went to the nursery together and picked out the plants I liked. I was impressed with how knowledgeable he is. The work was completed on time and we have received numerous compliments on our yard. While not the most expensive estimate, I would have chosen this company either way because of how friendly and understanding Tim was. We love our beautiful, low maintenance yard. Thank you to Tim and his team.

S “Mrs.Rampage” Rampage

12 July 2022

I have really liked working with Tim and Gustavo. They were super helpful and knowledgeable, on time and respectful. Tim listened to our desires while recommending plants and some rock styles. I definitely recommend them if you are looking to redo your front/backyards!

Sophie R

13 June 2022

We engaged Dooling Landscaping in the spring of 2022, and within 2 months, Tim and his team of experienced landscapers had transformed the barren/unkept backyard of our new home into a paradise. Tim was very hands-on from beginning to end. He helped my wife and I come up with the design, and had some great ideas on how to lay things out. We now have a beautiful space for the family to enjoy, complete with grass, walkways, fruit trees, planter boxes, and a great irrigation system etc. Thank you Tim!

Francisco Tourreilles

18 January 2022

A friend recommended Dooling Landscape Services when I mentioned that I wanted to beautify our yard with minimal fuss. The professionals at Dooling Landscape were very friendly, helpful, and helped me get just the kind of yard I had been hoping for. Now I always recommend their services as well!

Richard Branson

13 April 2021

Positive: Professionalism, Punctuality, Quality, Responsiveness, Value Thanks to Dooling Landscape, we now enjoy a beautiful garden with flattering lighting that enhances the whole effect.

Maria Smitha

04 June 2020

After two years of thinking about and researching a landscape project we chose Tim Dooling to do the job. Tim is so easy to work with and his crew is talented and clean. We are completely satisfied with the work he did in every aspect. Plus, he had good ideas and never got annoyed when we added or changed something along the way. We recommend Tim, without reservation, for any landscape project.

Donny S


Products / Services

  • SOD Installation

  • Pavers

  • Flagstone and Walkways

  • Landscape Lighting

  • Retaining Walls

  • Irrigation

  • Planting

  • Landscape Maintenance

  • Landscape Renovation

  • Preparing a Home for Sale

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Read our Recent Articles

There Are Many Benefits of Native Plants in Landscaping

The Many Benefits of Native Plants in LandscapingThe use of native plants is a rising trend in landscape design today. There are many reasons for this but before getting into that, it’s important to understand what is meant by the term “native plants”.

Simple Eco-Friendly Landscaping Practices

Simple Eco-Friendly Landscaping PracticesIf your yard and the landscape you create there is that part of your home that connects you with the outdoors and with nature, shouldn’t the yard be as natural as possible? This does not mean turning it into a jungle that is not comfortable for humans to be in.

Essential Landscaping Hacks: Must-Know Tips and Tricks (Part 2)

Backyard Renovations

Even the most enthusiastic gardeners will welcome anything that makes life easier while not affecting the beauty and durability of the landscape.

Landscaping Hacks You Need to Know Part 1

Landscaping Hacks You Need to Know Part 1 | Backyard RenovationsEven the most ardent gardener will, at times, find that the time and effort needed to keep a year looking its best is too much. After all, the idea of a great-looking garden is to have a place of beauty that creates an environment for unwinding, entertaining, and just plain having fun.

Garden Revival: Tips and Tricks for a Flourishing Yard

Flourishing Garden After Professional LandscapingAge catches up with everyone and everything. That includes your garden. No matter how much attention you pay to it, the signs of age and staleness slowly creep in. It is often so slight that you do not notice it and as you get used to it, the slow progression is a change your eye glosses over.

Professional Landscaping – Is It Worth the Cost?

Is Professional Landscaping Worth the Cost

For homeowners, property maintenance is a priority. The home is, in almost all cases, the biggest investment they will ever make and its value has to be not just maintained, but as far as possible, enhanced. This includes home repairs, painting, redecoration, and perhaps even remodeling. All this not only increases the house’s market value, it makes the home a better place to live in.

Seeding or Sodding - Which One Is Right for Your Lawn?

Grass soddingBeautiful plants, shrubs and flowerbeds can add to the beauty of any landscape. Shady trees add character and utility. But the foundation of a great garden is the lawn. A thick verdant carpet of lush grass is the canvas on which the colors of the foliage are painted. It is easy to take the lawn for granted.

Planting for Tomorrow: Building an Eco-Friendly and Future - Proof Garden

Grass sodding - Building an Eco-Friendly & Future-Proof GardenThe climate is changing and this is affecting your garden. Hotter summers, colder winters, more rain and longer periods of drought all take their toll on the landscape around your home. The amount of effort needed to keep your garden looking good keeps increasing. Using a professional landscaping company to care for your garden and to keep it safe from the hazards of climate change is the best choice.

Common Landscape Lighting Mistakes to Avoid

Common Landscape Lighting Mistakes to AvoidLandscape lighting is not a DIY project. There are far too many technical issues and variables involved, all of which could turn a seemingly simple job into a mess that will ruin the look of your house and make everyone who lives in it unhappy.

Emerging Landscape Design Trends Expected in 2024: Part 2

Outdoor Landscape Lighting in San JoseLighting is going to be a big feature in landscape design. The freedom to enjoy a garden after the sun goes down adds another dimension to the pleasure it offers. From family gatherings to entertaining to just being able to unwind in peace at the end of the day, the ways a garden can be used after sunset are endless.

Emerging Landscape Design Trends Expected in 2024: Part 1

Outdoor Landscape Lighting

Your home is the one place that is completely yours and where you have the freedom (subject, of course, to zoning and other restrictions) to have it looking the way you want. Just as with interior decoration, styles and designs in landscaping keep changing with time and what was “in” a few years ago may be out of date today. 

Landscaping 101 – Part 2

Sod ServicesThe first part of this blog covered a few of the issues that need to be kept in mind when planning a landscape. Whether your yard is large or small, oddly shaped, flat or uneven, what you do to enhance its appeal will add to the look and feel of the home. That said, let us get on with the basics.

Landscaping 101 – Part 1

Sod Installation Services, Sod Installer San JoseImagine sitting at a window, chilling out and glancing out into your garden. That is a scene that should give you pleasure. The question is, does it do so and if it does, how much? Can the landscape that surrounds your home be made even better? And what kind of difference will it make to both the exterior and the ambiance that it radiates into the indoor spaces? To know whether some landscaping will give your home, inside and out, a facelift and make it a more attractive place to reside in, the best course of action is to contact a professional landscaping company.

Professional Landscaping Is NOT Expensive

Sod Installation and Maintenance ServicesMaintaining a garden is a time-consuming and money-consuming commitment. With so many other demands on their time and pocket, being able to create and maintain the perfect landscape is never going to be easy for the homeowner. But the beauty of the external areas adds to the beauty of the interior and everyone wants to live in a beautiful home.

Regular Landscape Renovation – It Makes a Huge Difference to Your Home

Landscape RenovationRegular Landscape Renovation – It Makes a Huge Difference to Your Home

When homeowners think of landscape renovation, it is normally in terms of repairing and rejuvenating a neglected garden. That is, of course, a prime consideration. But there is another aspect to it – adding to the market value of your home. No matter how happy you are in your home, sooner or later the thought of selling it (for whatever reason) does crop up.

Frequently Asked Questions about our Products / Services

Why is landscaping important?

Landscaping adds to the beauty of the exterior of a house. This is important because:

  • It gives visitors a positive first impression
  • The appeal of the exterior also affects the comfort and appearance of the interior atmosphere and so impacts the happiness of those residing in the home
  • A landscaped yard is a place to be out in the open and unwind
  • A beautiful landscape will increase the curb appeal of a house and by doing so, add to its selling price when the time comes to sell it.

A professional landscape designer will be able to give you more information on this and create the kind of landscape you want.

What is the most important thing in landscaping?

The most important aspect of landscaping is balance. That means that all the elements that go into creating a landscape, such as the grass, shrubs, trees, flowers, walkways, lighting, etc. should perfectly blend into each other to create a symmetrical whole. This requires both artistic sensibilities and an understanding of horticulture, coupled with landscaping experience. That is why the creation of a great landscape is best left to a professional landscape designer.

What is the best time of year to install sod?

Sod may be installed at most times of the year in a place like California. That being said, there are always going to be climatic conditions that could affect not just the installation but also the appearance and durability of the sod. The right way to be sure that sod is installed so that it looks its best and lasts for a long time is to contact a professional landscaping company that will give you the information you need and once you make your decision, give you the perfect lawn.

What are the advantages of brick pavers?

Pavers can give homes a feeling of opulence. They offer a very traditional and unique look that goes well with modern architecture. 

Here are a few advantages of brick pavers:

  • They are readily available in stores. 
  • They fit well with the soil.
  • They are slip-resistant thanks to their texture and surface. 
  • Brick pavers are environment-friendly as they are made of clay. 
  • It is easy to maintain brick pavers. 

How do you qualify as a gardener?

In your role as a gardener, you will be looking after a comprehensive set of plants, including flowers and trees. You will be responsible for looking after these in public parks, gardens, schools, colleges, or even offices. You can even involve in landscaping and greenkeeping. The main purpose for recruiting a gardener is to offer enjoyment and natural beauty. Though there are no formal qualifications required to become a gardener, you can develop your skills through a wide range of courses available nowadays. If you are looking for an efficient gardener, you can type Gardening Services Near me in Google.

What types of landscape lighting are most effective in winter?

The answer to this depends on what kind of winter conditions you are talking about –climatic conditions differ greatly not only from state to state but even from county to county. The right landscape lighting installation will depend on the size of the garden, what is growing there, and what the existing visibility is like at night in winter. Putting the wrong lighting will ruin the look of the landscape. The right course of action will be to consult a landscape service that knows how to create effective light solutions. This will ensure that the landscape looks its best at any time of year.

What is included in sod installation?

A sod installation project involves measuring the area to be covered so the right amount of sod can be acquired. Then comes the actual laying of the strips, which must be straight and even, failing which it will not be attractive. After that comes the watering and trimming which will be different in the initial stages from what needs to be done in the long term. I tried to do my own sod work, but the result was a mess. To be sure of having a sod lawn you can be proud of, have to job done by a landscaping professional.

What are some good solutions for a muddy driveway?

Muddy driveways are not just unsightly, they are dangerous. The mud forms a slippery surface and it is easy to lose control of a car on this surface and hit something. Even walking on it can be unsafe – slipping and falling is a common occurrence. Before finding a solution for the problem, the cause or causes must be identified. At Dooling Landscape Service we have the experience and knowledge to fix your muddy driveway problems permanently so your home’s appearance is not ruined and the driveway stays safe to use.

How do you start landscaping for beginners?

Landscaping can be a fun and rewarding hobby, and it can also increase the value of your home. But it's important to do it right, so here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Decide what kind of landscaping you want. Do you want a garden with flowers and plants? A grassy lawn? A patio area with seating?

2. Contact your local municipality to find out what regulations apply to your property and what type of permits are needed for landscaping projects.

3. Research different types of plants and materials, and find a reputable landscaping company that can help you plan and execute your project.

How Do I Create A Water Features in Landscaping?

You can create a water feature in landscaping by installing a pond or fountain.

If you're interested in creating a pond, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The most important factor is the size of the pond. It should be at least large enough to hold several gallons of water so that it doesn't become stagnant. You'll also need to consider the depth of the pond and how much sunlight it will receive.

If you're interested in installing a fountain, you'll need to choose a location that has access to electricity and water. You'll also need to decide on the height and style of the fountain.

What kind of work is done by a landscaping company?

Landscaping companies offer a wide range of services to their clients. The most common services provided by landscaping companies are lawn care, tree and shrub care, and garden maintenance. Some landscaping companies also offer design and installation services for new landscapes, as well as hardscape solutions such as patios, walkways, and retaining walls. Whatever your landscaping needs may be, there’s a good chance we can help you out.

How do I beautify my garden?

Installing pavers is a great way to beautify your garden. Pavers are a type of brick or stone that can be used to create pathways, patio areas, and even walls. They come in a variety of shapes and colors, so you can choose the ones that best fit your taste and style.

To install pavers, you first need to create a foundation for them. This can be done by using mortar or concrete. Once the foundation is in place, you can start laying the pavers. Make sure they are tightly fitted together so that there are no gaps between them. If needed, use sand or gravel to fill in any spaces between the pavers.

How do I landscape the front of my house low-maintenance?

The front of your house is the first thing visitors will see, so it's important to make a good impression.  Landscaping can be a lot of work, but there are ways to make it easier. 

Use native plants. Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil, so they require less water and maintenance than non-native species.

Choose plants that don't need frequent pruning. Deciduous trees and shrubs shed their leaves in fall, so they don't need to be pruned as often as evergreens.

Drought tolerant plants are those that can survive, or even thrive, in conditions of low water availability. They typically have small leaves that minimize evaporation, deep root systems that allow them to find water sources underground, and/or waxy coatings on their leaves that reduce moisture loss. Mulching is the practice of covering the soil surface with a layer of organic material such as bark chips, compost, or straw. Not only does mulching help keep the soil moist by reducing evaporation, but it also helps suppress weed growth and improves the soil's structure and fertility.

What time of year is best to landscape?

Landscaping is typically best done in the springtime, as the weather is mild, and most plants are coming out of their winter dormancy. However, summer landscaping can also be beautiful if you choose drought-tolerant plants that will thrive in the heat. In the fall, it's a good time to plant trees and bulbs, and in the winter, you can do some basic maintenance work like raking leaves or clearing debris from your yard.

How do I plan a new landscape?

Installing a new landscape in your yard can be a daunting task. However, by following these simple steps, you can make the process much easier and ensure that your new landscape looks great.

1. Decide what type of landscape you want. Do you want a grassy lawn, or would you prefer something with more color and variety?

2. Plan out the layout of your landscape. This will help you figure out how much space you need to accommodate all of your desired plants and features.

3. Buy plants and materials from a local garden center or nursery. This will ensure that you get quality products that will last in San Jose's climate.

4. Install irrigation systems to water your plants automatically.

What is the best base for flagstone walkway?

The best base for a flagstone walkway is a compacted, well-draining sub-base. This sub-base should be made up of a combination of crushed stone and sand, which will provide a stable foundation for the flagstones.

The sub-base should be at least 4-6 inches deep and should be compacted using a plate compactor to ensure a solid foundation. The crushed stone should be a ¾ inch or smaller size, which is fine enough to pack tightly and yet not so fine that it becomes muddy when wet.

The final step is to add a layer of sand on top of the sub-base. The sand should be leveled and compacted, creating a smooth surface to lay the flagstones on. The flagstones should be set in a bed of sand, which will help them to be level and stable.

Proper drainage is also important, to prevent water from pooling around the walkway, which can cause the flagstones to shift or even sink. A slight slope away from the house or buildings will allow the water to flow away.

Overall, a well-compacted, well-draining sub-base made of crushed stone and sand, with proper drainage and a slight slope will ensure a stable and long-lasting flagstone walkway.

How to lay flagstone walkway?

Laying a flagstone walkway can add charm and functionality to a home's landscaping. Here are some basic steps to follow:

    Prepare the area: Mark the desired path and remove any grass, plants, or debris. Dig a shallow trench to accommodate the stone and base material.

    Add a base layer: Lay a base layer of crushed rock, gravel, or sand to provide a stable and level surface for the stones. Use a tamper to compact the base and ensure it is level.

    Set the flagstones: Starting at one end, lay the stones in the desired pattern, leaving a small gap between each stone for grout. Use a rubber mallet to gently tap each stone into place.

    Fill the gaps: Once all the stones are in place, fill the gaps between them with grout or a mix of sand and cement.

    Finishing touches: Add any finishing touches, such as edging or additional landscaping.

It's important to take your time and ensure each stone is properly set to create a safe and durable walkway.

How do I properly install a flagstone walkway in my backyard?

Installing a flagstone walkway in your backyard can be a great way to add beauty and functionality to your outdoor space. Here are some general steps to follow to properly install a flagstone walkway:

1. Plan the project: Determine the location and design of the walkway, and make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials.

2. Prepare the area: Clear the area of any vegetation, debris, or obstacles. Excavate the soil to a depth of 4-6 inches, and make sure the area is level.

3. Lay the base: Add a layer of crushed stone or gravel to the excavated area, and compact it with a tamper or roller.

4. Add the sand layer: Spread a layer of sand on top of the crushed stone, and level it out using a screed board.

5. Lay the flagstones: Start at one end of the walkway and lay the flagstones on top of the sand. Adjust the stones to make sure they are level and evenly spaced, and tap them into place with a rubber mallet.

6. Fill the gaps: Fill the gaps between the flagstones with sand or gravel, and sweep the surface clean.

7. Finish the edges: Use edging materials, such as bricks or stones, to create a border around the walkway and hold the flagstones in place.

It is important to note that the specific steps and materials needed for installing a flagstone walkway may vary depending on the size and shape of the walkway, as well as the specific materials used. It may be helpful to consult with a professional or a detailed installation guide for your specific project.

What is landscape renovation, and how does it differ from a complete landscape redesign?

Landscape renovation involves revitalizing an existing outdoor space through selective enhancements like updating plants, adding new features, or improving hardscape elements. It retains some original elements while targeting specific areas for improvement. In contrast, a complete landscape redesign involves a comprehensive overhaul of the entire outdoor environment, often including layout changes, new themes, and significant plant and feature replacements. While renovation preserves certain aspects, redesign offers a fresh start, allowing for more extensive creativity and transformation of the landscape's overall look, feel, and functionality. Both approaches cater to different levels of change and budget considerations.

What is landscape seasonal clean-up, and why is it important for maintaining outdoor spaces?

Landscape seasonal clean-up refers to the practice of performing thorough maintenance and cleaning tasks in outdoor spaces, typically at the changing of seasons, such as spring and fall. It is essential for several reasons:

1. Plant Health: Removing dead leaves, debris, and pruning dead or overgrown vegetation can promote the health and growth of plants.

2. Preventing Pests and Diseases: Regular clean-up minimizes potential habitats for pests and disease-carrying organisms in the garden.

3. Aesthetic Appeal: A clean and well-maintained outdoor space looks more attractive and inviting, enhancing curb appeal.

4. Safety: Seasonal clean-up can address safety hazards like fallen branches, slippery leaves, or overgrown vegetation.

5. Functionality: Cleaning and organizing outdoor spaces ensure they remain functional for various purposes, such as entertaining or recreational activities.

6. Winter Preparation: Fall clean-up, in particular, prepares the landscape for the winter season, preventing cold-weather damage and facilitating spring growth.

7. Property Value: Well-maintained outdoor spaces increase the overall value of a property and can attract potential buyers.

In summary, landscape seasonal clean-up is crucial for maintaining the health, safety, appearance, and functionality of outdoor spaces, ensuring they remain pleasant and usable throughout the changing seasons.

What is outdoor landscape lighting, and how does it enhance outdoor spaces?

Outdoor landscape lighting is an artful approach to illuminating the exterior of homes, gardens, and outdoor spaces. It involves strategically placing lighting fixtures to enhance the visual appeal of the landscape, creating a captivating atmosphere while serving practical purposes. Beyond its utilitarian function, landscape lighting transforms outdoor spaces into enchanting realms after sunset.

One primary aspect of landscape lighting is its ability to accentuate the aesthetic features of a property. By highlighting architectural details, such as facades, columns, or distinctive textures, outdoor lighting contributes to an appealing nighttime curb appeal. It extends the visual interest beyond the daylight hours, allowing homeowners to showcase the beauty of their property throughout the evening.

Moreover, landscape lighting plays a crucial role in defining and emphasizing key elements within the outdoor environment. Trees, plants, and garden features become focal points, their unique shapes, textures, and colors accentuated under the strategically placed lights. Sculptures, water features, and other outdoor art installations can be showcased, turning the garden into a gallery of visual delights.

Outdoor lighting also serves practical purposes related to safety and security. Well-lit pathways, steps, and potential hazards ensure safe navigation in the dark, reducing the risk of accidents. Illuminated outdoor spaces contribute to a heightened sense of security by minimizing hidden areas and creating a deterrent to unwanted intruders.

In addition to its functional aspects, landscape lighting has a transformative effect on the mood and ambiance of outdoor spaces. The carefully selected placement of lights can create various atmospheres – from a serene and calming setting to a festive and vibrant one. This flexibility allows homeowners to adapt the outdoor environment to different occasions, seasons, or personal preferences.

Outdoor landscape lighting extends the usability of outdoor living spaces, turning gardens, patios, and decks into inviting areas for relaxation and entertainment long after the sun has set. The warm glow of well-designed lighting enhances the overall experience, making these spaces feel like natural extensions of the home.

In summary, outdoor landscape lighting is a multifaceted design element that enhances outdoor spaces by combining aesthetic appeal with functionality. It transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, creating an enchanting and dynamic environment that can be enjoyed both visually and practically.

What are the key considerations when planning the installation of landscape lighting?

When planning landscape lighting installation, several key considerations should be taken into account to ensure optimal results:

1. Purpose and Functionality: Determine the intended purpose of the lighting, whether it's for safety, security, ambiance, or highlighting specific features, and plan the layout accordingly.

2. Landscape Features: Identify key landscape features such as trees, shrubs, pathways, architectural elements, and focal points that you want to highlight or illuminate.

3. Lighting Techniques: Choose appropriate lighting techniques such as uplighting, downlighting, path lighting, or spotlighting based on the desired effect and the features being illuminated.

4. Lighting Fixtures: Select high-quality fixtures that are suitable for outdoor use, weather-resistant, and compatible with the chosen lighting techniques. Consider factors such as durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetics when choosing fixtures.

5. Power Source and Wiring: Determine the power source for the lighting installation, whether it's hardwired to the electrical system or powered by solar energy. Plan the wiring layout to ensure safety and functionality while minimizing visibility.

6. Lighting Control: Decide on the type of lighting control system, whether it's manual switches, timers, motion sensors, or smart lighting systems that can be controlled remotely via smartphone or tablet.

7. Energy Efficiency: Opt for energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures to reduce energy consumption and minimize maintenance costs while still achieving the desired lighting effects.

8. Lighting Zones: Divide the outdoor space into different lighting zones based on functionality and desired ambiance, allowing for flexibility in controlling the lighting levels in different areas.

9. Safety and Regulations: Ensure compliance with local building codes, regulations, and safety standards regarding outdoor lighting installation, particularly when dealing with electrical wiring and fixtures.

10. Professional Consultation: Consider consulting with a landscape designer or lighting specialist to help with the planning and design process, ensuring that the lighting installation meets your aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and budget constraints.

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