Landscaping

5 Easy Tips for a Great Looking Lawn

November 22, 2018 by derick

“As homeowners most of us have put hours and hours into lawn care with little results. Dream of a lush, green lawn? You know, one of those lawns that tickles your barefeet with softness as you walk out to get the paper.”

5 Easy Tips for a Great Looking Lawn

As your lawn responds to nature’s spring wake-up call, help prepare it for a year of healthy growth with these 5 tips.

1. Leave the clippings. The grass biodegrades, adding nutrients and organic matter to the soil. This reduces the need for fertilizer or disposal of clippings. Mulching mowers cut grass into tiny pieces, which quickly break down.

2. Mow at proper heights. Most lawns should be cut taller than you might think. Taller grass means deeper roots and a more resilient lawn. Since proper grass heights can vary depending on your location, contact your county extension office for regional mowing height recommendations based on your turf type…

Runoff Pollution and How to Prevent It

November 21, 2018 by derick

“When water runs off yards, streets, and parking lots into storm sewers or directly into waterways, it carries with it sediments that clog streams and reduce oxygen in the water, as well as chemicals that poison aquatic ecosystems and can render water supplies undrinkable.”

Water Conservation

What is Runoff Pollution?

Runoff pollution refers to the contaminants picked up by rainwater and melting snow that washes off the many impermeable surfaces found in urban environments. It is a threat to both the quantity and quality of our water supply.

As water washes over
surfaces like these:

roads
bridges
rooftops
parking lots

…it will absorb pollutants like these:

dirt, dust
rubber, metal deposits
engine oil, antifreeze
pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides
debris, pet waste

Unfortunately, often runoff water carries much of this pollution directly into bodies of water. It’s better when the runoff returns to the ground to infiltrate. Plants and soil will naturally filter and clean polluted runoff (to a degree).

Because of nature’s water cycle, the water we use today, and all the water that runs into the storm drain, is water that we need to use again. We share our water with everyone and with everything. It’s in our own best interests to keep it as clean as possible…

Build Your Own Successful Outdoor Garden

November 13, 2018 by derick

“Landscaping can appear to be very difficult. The truth, however, is that it really isn’t as difficult as it looks. By spending some time learning more about landscaping, you may be surprised at how easy it can be. Take a look through this article and get an idea of what landscaping is all about with the following tips.”

Ask an expert to test your soil before you plant. When your soil has been properly tested, you can determine what nutrients are present and which, if any, need to be amended before adding plants into the mix. You will have much better plants and a very successful garden.

Talk to a licensed landscaper before you do any work to your own yard. A short discussion about your ideas and approach with a pro can widen your perspective and uncover any issues in your design that need rethinking. This is a crucial part of your plan, especially if you are not an experienced landscaper.

Shop online to save money and get a larger selection. The web has many sites which provide great products at unbeatable prices. Check the reviews on the product and retailer before you make your purchase. Look at various websites and compare prices.

Don’t underestimate the importance of quality plants and products. While you can locate inexpensive supplies, the quality can be below what you want or need. Choosing a specialty store can give you the expertise of the staff, a guarantee that the product will work as advertised and the ability to support your local economy.

Make use of curvy borders along the perimeter of your plants. Rounded edges have a better visual appeal than cornered edges. Completely plan out your landscape borders before you begin planting to make sure everything flows well.

Consult with garden and landscape professionals prior to beginning. Even if you will do the work yourself, talk to a professional about your ideas before you begin. They can give you some good advice on what to do or avoid if you are new to working on your landscaping. If you know the things you’re doing, an opinion from a professional is very helpful.

Consider using plants that have unique leaf textures as you embark on your landscaping project. The contrast between shape and texture when mixed together can add beauty and interest to your design. Make sure they are dispersed evenly for maximum appeal.

If the reason that you want to plant trees on your lawn is for privacy, you should purchase fast-growing trees. These trees grow much, much faster than regular trees. A good quick-growing tree that is very popular today is called weeping cherry tree.

Landscaping may take some time to plan and maintain, but the results will be well worth it. It may take some work, but if you put in the time and effort, you can become an expert landscaper. Knowing the right way to go about landscaping is the key to success. In order to properly landscape your lawn, use this article’s tips.

Bermuda Grass Care & Maintenance Tips

June 27, 2018 by derick

“Many individuals mistake Bermuda grass for a weed. Some consider it pests which destroy plants. The fact is, Bermuda grass is beatifying, used often in golf course, baseball and football fields, in parks as well as other recreational places. These are extremely suitable in these said places as they easily grow and require minimal care.”

Image result for bermuda grass maintenance

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There are some extremely popular warm season grasses available on the market to pick from which people choose. One of the best warm season grasses is Bermuda grass due to the fact it is really attractive and simple to care for. When you use Bermuda grass then you can be assured that it will totally transform your lawn in to a perfect landscape that might be great to walk on – even with bare feet.

Understanding Bermuda Grass

This is an evergreen perennial grass that may grow up to more than one foot and it is described as short and spiky leaf blades. This grass is endemic to north and east Africa, Asia, Australia, and southern Europe. While these grasses are more widely used as cover for lawns and putting greens, a few species in the genus are also utilized as pasture or forage grasses

In terms of fertilizing for grass maintenance, the recommended schedule is every 30 to 45 days. Making use of a mixture of slow and fast release fertilizers will assure that the grass is fertilized for a long time and at the right amounts. For maximum results, one pound of nitrogen for every 1,000 feet (304.8 m) is suggested. Fundamentally, they’re all you need for your Bermuda grass to achieve the right grass maintenance treatment.

As well as using fertilizer, watering the lawn can be one more very important a part of lawn care, but this is quite an easy action to take. What you ought to aim to do is always to give the grass a soaking of water that has about an inch in depth and you will try to do this every 4 to 7 days to ensure that it gets the right amount of watering. Using this method correctly, you will have really beautiful Bermuda grass lawn that you could be proud of.

Mowing is something that is probably one of the greatest steps in lawn care and you will do this regularly. However this can be a bit time intensive, so in the event you don’t have the time or the patience, you might like to hire the services of a professional lawn care contractor to do it for you.

While cutting Bermuda grass, always do it with a blade that has been sharpened. For excellent looking grass, mow your lawn twice a year. This signifies that even if you have a brand new blade for the summer mowing, you need to get another one for mowing in the spring time for highest effectiveness.

Remember to keep a regular schedule in your maintenance regimen. This makes sure your grass is kept green and healthy always.

Ways to Add Curb Appeal

June 19, 2018 by derick

“As the years go by, certain parts of the home are going to wither and shed its attractiveness. Natural elements and also other reasons are the major reason with this circumstance. New households will not be exempted for this due to the fact when it isn’t taken care of well, it can reduce its charm. As a house owner, you should know that things like chipped paint, filth, grime, fungus will affect the way your house appears to be like and as a result, it’ll decrease your home’s worth.”

Image result for curb appeal

https://www.countryliving.com

It is known by all people that as the the year progresses by, the attractiveness our households depreciate. This is mainly because of the continual use and exposure to different components. Actually, it’s not just limited to aging households but additionally to houses which are not well kept. As a result of this, each family member must be aware that even just a small issue like cracked walls or simple stains can lead to a major problem in the end.

Each home’s appeal is known as the curb appeal. Improving your property’s curb appeal won’t only provide you with a clean and inviting place to live in, but it’ll also increase the worth of your property. Should you be thinking of putting your home on the market, lack of curb appeal will present problems. But the truth is have to worry no more since you can follow these straightforward exterior improvement guidelines that can help improve the wonder of your property,

Clean The Interiors And Exteriors Of Your Property

Cleanup and repair of the interiors followed by the exteriors of the home. By removing all the clutter and junk from your property will entice prospective buyers into your home. To help you out, you can use a power washer to clean the exteriors of your house. Using the power washer, you could get rid of the dirt, salt scum, and grime from your porch, driveway, and outdoor patios. You can easily rent or get a power washer or hire the help of an expert pressure washer to avoid crashes and injuries. Also, remember the gutters. Dirty gutters will not just be unappealing, it will fail to do its purpose therefore you must not neglect that portion. By merely cleaning it, you can actually create a big difference in the curb appeal of your house.

Repaint The Walls

Using fresh coat of paint could make your home look brand new. If you don’t have prior experiences with this DIY project, you could seek the support of an experienced painter to help you on this task. When picking colors, you should pick them outside where you can look at them under natural light. Do not forget that bright light creates glare and may change your perception of the certain color.

Improve Your Landscaping

An easier way to improve the look of your garden is to add mulch to the flower beds. The lawn have to be cleaned out and all the weeds are removed. You can also think about adding plants and flowers. Obtaining local plants and flowers is a good way to save money. Also you can consider seeking advice from landscaping professionals or from experts at your local nursery. You must ask for their recommendations for plants that will bloom easily in your area.

How to Fertilize Your Lawn

April 9, 2018 by derick

“To grow green and healthy, your lawn depends on high-quality fertilizer and regular feedings. When applied at the right times, a high-quality lawn fertilizer gives turf essential nutrients that help it grow thick and resist environmental stresses, weeds and pests. How often you feed your lawn depends on grass type and your climate. For best results, follow these fertilizing guidelines.”

Fertilizing the Lawn

Fertilize during the lawn’s most active growth periods: spring and fall in cool climates and early and late summer in warm climates. Avoid fertilizing during very hot weather, when many grass lawns are essentially dormant.

Step 1: Determine Grass Type

Different grasses need different amounts of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet of lawn per year. Blue gramma, buffalo, and centipede grasses need up to 2 pounds. Bahia, ryegrass, fine fescue, St. Augustine, and zoysia grasses need 2 to 4 pounds. Bentgrass, Bermuda, Kentucky bluegrass, and tall fescue need 3 to 6 pounds. Use the upper end of the range in warmer climates that have longer growing seasons, and less in cooler…

Using a fountain in your pond to keep water clear and lively

March 21, 2018 by derick

“Adding a fountain to your outdoor space can be a bit of a double-edged sword. On one hand, the sound of moving water is a soothing addition to any outdoor space. On the other hand, that lovely fountain can quickly turn into a slimy, smelly mess. The growth and accumulation of algae can be aggravating, hindering your enjoyment of the fountain while also potentially clogging the fountain’s filtration system. Regular maintenance of your fountain can help prevent algae growth.”

Have you ever looked at your pond or water feature and noticed that it looks a little… lifeless? You may even notice a foul smell coming from your pond. You are treating for weeds and algae, but you’re wondering if there is something else you can use to keep your pond healthy.

Poor pond health can be caused by decaying leaves, excess nutrients, and lack of movement in the water. Having little movement in your pond can be an issue if you have fish because of the lack of oxygen in still waters. A pond with no movement can become a less-than-ideal environment for fish and a perfect environment for weed and algae growth…

Outdoor Fountains For Your Landscaping Needs

November 14, 2017 by derick

Garden fountains could add so much for any outdoor space. Whether it’s the soothing sound of running water, the striking visual of a tiered fountain or the ability to make a new house for a lot of beautiful fish, fountains could interest almost anybody. When you are trying to add a fountain to your garden, there are lots of things to keep in mind.

If you are intending to have an outdoor fountain in your home, It is vital that your fountain fits in with the rest of your garden. If your space is small, it can’t seem sensible to add a huge, multi-tiered fountain. That will remove from the rest of your garden. While it is perfectly normal to have a fountain be the focal point of your garden, you still wish all of the pieces in your garden to compliment one another. A special fountain in a small space absolutely wouldn’t do this. Thankfully, garden fountains are available in almost any size. Whether it’s a small fountain that could fit right on your patio or deck, or something grand as the centerpiece of a much larger garden, it is possible to find the right size fountain to fit your needs.

Finding the right material

Outdoor fountains for your patio can be created out of just about any material. Nevertheless you will want your fountain to look its best for provided that your patio exists, and a few materials can outlast others. Copper and bronze fountains permit minute details, however the color will patina or tarnish over time as oxidization occurs.

Usually, stone or granite garden fountains are actually cast stone in contrast to solid concrete or granite to keep the weight down. The largest advantage of a cast stone garden fountain is their beauty and strength! Although heavy, these are quite stunning and are available in a variety of size and shapes. You can get a tiered fountain at almost any height, a smaller unique shaped fountain or a style which is meant to sit flush up against a wall, like a wall of your home or deck.

Many decide on fiberglass outdoor fountain because of its weight. Being a fiberglass material, your garden fountain is going to be kept at a manageable weight, thus making it easier to maneuver, move and clean. A lot of the fiberglass tiered fountains even though they could be tall, have a spin lock system therefore the pieces can come apart for easy storage in cold months and easy cleaning

Electric or Solar-powered

Outdoor fountains for your patio may need an electrical outlet for the pump to work. Nonetheless, there are solar-powered fountains available if your patio receives enough sunlight. Solar panels create an environmentally-friendly way to keep the fountain running with no running up your utility bill.

It’s not hard to see that when handling outdoor fountains, the options are endless. There are fountains available for every situation, every single available space and then any outdoor decor. The rest can be up to you.

Shipping Container Swimming Pool: An Innovative Pool Design for Your Home

September 16, 2017 by derick

I must say that this is really an innovative one. The one who thought of this design is really witty. I know summer is coming to end but you might want to consider having a pool using a shipping container.

Shipping containers are used in many different ways. For sure, you have seen container homes which are a very good way to reused shipping containers.

But did you know that it can also be used for swimming pools?

Yes, that’s right! Shipping containers can actually be transformed into pools for your home. Apart from being unique, it also has many impressive features.

What we will feature today is the innovative pool design from Modpools. They design modular pools which are configured to suit the one’s need. Their pools utilize the structural rigidity of a modified shipping container in order to provide users with a relocatable hot pool.

But that’s not all!

It is also very easy to set up. It only takes minutes to install it and the family can already enjoy its cool waters. When it’s winter time, you can increase the water’s temperature at 30°c/hour in -10°c weather.

Know more about this pool below:

19 Different Types Of Outdoor Wall Lighting (Complete Buying Guide)

August 11, 2017 by derick

Your outdoor space will come to life with the installation of beautiful outdoor lanterns and garden lights. Outdoor wall lighting does not only enhance the beauty of your home during the night but also ensures the safety of your family to avoid accidents during the night.

Discover the different types of outdoor wall lighting that you can take advantage of to boost your home’s outdoor aesthetics.

Whether you need security lights, ambient lighting for a particular area in your yard, or light fixtures to accessorize your home’s exterior, here is our ultimate guide to outdoor wall lighting for your home.

Outdoor Wall Lighting Buying Guide

When considering outdoor wall lighting, or outdoor sconce lighting, there are several things you should consider.

Some consumers choose outdoor lighting strictly for design, while others want lighting for security. A variety of motion-triggered flood lights, for example, work well for security. However, you certainly don’t have to sacrifice style for function.

There are many styles of wall-mounted outdoor lighting, so there are absolutely options to match the style of your home as well as your own taste.

“Sconce” is simply a term for any wall-mounted lighting, indoors or outdoors. Sconces are wonderful because they can provide any type of lighting you need—ambient, accent, or task lighting—depending on the sconce you select.

A. Exterior Sconce Purposes

Your first consideration when shopping for lighting for home’s exterior is the purpose that you want your lights to serve. This will, to some degree, dictate the types of options that will work for you.