Landscaping

LANDSCAPING
YOU SHOULD KNOW THE FACTS ABOUT LANDSCAPING
BY:
MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

MANAGER (TRAINING & OPERATION) MASCOT INTERNATIONAL LTD. H96 NEW AIRPORT ROAD, DHAKA 1213
MOBILE: 0088-01199-414-414, 0088-01670700323,
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CONTENTS:
LANDSCAPING : DEFINITION WHAT IS XERISCAPE? WHAT IS A HARDSCAPE? LANDSCAPE ENGINEERING LANDSCAPE PLANNING IN ASIA IN EUROPE IN USA LEGISLATION LANDSCAPE DESIGN DESIGN SCOPE DESIGN APPROACH TRAINING GARDENING GARDENING DESIGN LANDSCAPING MATERIALS HARD LANDSCAPE MATERIALS WHAT EQUIPMENT TO USE FOR LANDSCAPING FIVE LANDSCAPING TOOLS YOU SHOULD ALWAYS HAVE CAPITAL LANDSCAPING EQUIPMENT LANDSCAPE EQUIPMENTS FOR MAINTENANCE HOW TO BUILD A GARDEN BENCH 6. HOW TO BUILD A RETAINING WALL 7. TIPS FOR GROWING GORGEOUS HOSTA PLANTS SUNLIGHT MATTERS PLANTING MATTERS PEST MATTERS 8. HOW TO BUILD A TIRE SWING (THE TIRE, THE ROPE, THE KNOTS) 9. 3 LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR YOUR LAWN FALL FERTILIZATION WINTER CLEANING AERATION 10. LANDSCAPING LIGHTING IDEAS 11. SHRUBS THAT GROW THE FASTEST 12. FAST GROWING TREES 13. GARDENING TIPS 14. LANDSCAPE DESIGN YOUR GARDEN TO COMPLETE YOUR HOME 15. COMMON POISONOUS PLANTS FOUND IN MANY HOMES AND GARDENS 16. WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF GRASS SEED? 17. WHAT IS THE BEST BRAND OF LAWN FERTILIZER? 18. LOW MAINTENANCE LANDSCAPING IDEAS
AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD
MANAGER (TRAINING & OPERATION) MASCOT INTERNATIONAL LTD. H96, NEW AIRPORT ROAD, DHAKA 1213. MOBILE: 0088-01199414414, 0088-01670700323
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32. 33. 34. 35. 36.
HOW TO INCREASE CURB APPEAL OF YOUR HOME WITHOUT BREAKING BUDGET AVOIDING COMMON LANDSCAPING MISTAKES RULING WITH A RULER--ERRORS OF LINEARITY NEGLECTING THE FRONT--FORGETTING TO PUT YOUR FACE ON LIVING IN THE MOMENT--IGNORING FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS ITS YOUR LAWN--NEGLECTING THE REST OF THE FAMILY (AND THE WORLD) PLANTING EVERGREENS MADE EASY WATER GARDENING HOW TO PLANT A WEEPING CHERRY TREE GENERAL TIPS FOR GROWING ORCHIDS THE GREATNESS OF GROWING YOUR OWN HERBS HOW TO BUILD A ROCK GARDEN WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF GRASS SEED? A FEW METHODS FOR ADDING COLOR TO YOUR LANDSCAPING THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO RE-SEED YOUR LAWN TREES THAT PROVIDE THE MOST PRIVACY FABULOUSLY RELAXING BACKYARD IDEAS BIRD PARADISE NATURAL OASIS HOW TO CONTROL WEEDS WITHOUT HARMFUL CHEMICALS HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT MULCH FOR YOUR FLOWERBED HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WATER YOUR LAWN? WHAT DOES LIME DO FOR YOUR YARD? TIPS FOR GETTING LANDSCAPING IDEAS

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Landscaping :
Landscaping refers to any activity that modifies the visible features of an area of land, including: 1. living elements, such as flora or fauna; or what is commonly referred to as gardening, the art and craft of growing plants with a goal of creating a beautiful environment within the landscape. 2. natural elements such as landforms, terrain shape and elevation, or bodies of water; 3. human elements such as structures, buildings, fences or other material objects created and/or installed by humans; and 4. abstract elements such as the weather and lighting conditions. Landscaping is both science and art, and requires good observation and design skills. A good landscaper understands the elements of nature and construction, and blends them accordingly. Thales, an early Greek philosopher known for his view that "all is water," spent a considerable time thinking about the nature and scope of landscaping. Some of his students believed that in order for human activity to be considered landscaping, it must be directed toward modifying the physical features of the land itself, including the cultivation and/or manipulation of plants or other flora. Thales rejected this notion, arguing that any aspect of the material world affecting our visual perception of the land was a proper subject for landscaping. Both Plato and Aristotle praised Thales' analysis as a model for philosophy. In the early 20th century, British philosopher G.E. Moore cited Thales' reasoning as one of the few historical examples of how philosophical inquiry has led to genuine human understanding and progress. Philosophers in the 17th century debated whether visual beauty was a necessary goal of landscaping. With the advent of the positivists by the early 20th century, however, most western philosophers had rejected the notion of an objective esthetic standard for any form of art, including landscaping. Practitioners since the mid-20th century have experimented with jarring visual panoramas that are now generally accepted, at least in western societies, as falling within the scope of landscaping.
What is Xeriscape?
If you live in a drier climate you may have heard the term xeriscape rather than landscape and have wondered exactly what that means. This is actually a very relevant type of landscaping for desert climates in which drought friendly measures are used in the process of landscaping. Literally the word is a combination of the Greek word for dry xeros and the word landscape. It refers to a type of gardening or landscaping that doesnt require additional irrigation in order to maintain. This is great for desert regions and certain areas that do not get as much rain as other areas in the country or have little access to fresh supplies of water. Drought tolerant landscaping and smart scaping are other terms used in lieu of xeriscaping.

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Some things you can do in order to make the landscaping process much less painful in drier climates is to choose plants that are native to the area whenever possible. Even if you cant find plants that are native to your particular area that you like perhaps you can choose those that are native to similar climates instead. This process will help you choose plants that are far less likely to experience great distress as the result of a lack of water. You can have beautiful landscaping through this process if you take the effort during the planning stages. You should keep in mind how the plants will be grouped when xeriscaping as this will have a large part in how successful your project is. Grouping the plants that require the most water closely together will limit the amount of water you need to spread around your plant and garden area. You may also wish to consider placing plants that are more susceptible to a need for water in more shaded areas in order to limit evaporation of that oh so precious supply of water. You should also keep turf areas limited as much as possible and use drought tolerant plants to create an oasis affect surrounding the areas of turf. For the grassy areas you should take great care to use drought tolerant species of grass rather than other species that will require much more water in order to maintain. This type of gardening and landscaping is definitely not for everyone. It requires special planning and pretty regular maintenance in order to keep things lively and looking great throughout the many growing seasons. This type of landscaping is work but well worth it in areas where you would not otherwise be able to maintain a healthy garden or growing area around your home. Some of the wonderful advantages of xeriscaping include the following: lower water bills, conservation of water for other uses, little or not lawn mowing, a garden that will survive the water restrictions that will kill other gardens, and you will find that these gardens become a natural habitat for other animals and insects that can be quite lovely to watch. When wondering exactly what it meant to xeriscape, the short answer is that it means to landscape with conservation of resources in mind. This is probably one of the most efficient and Earth friendly ways one can landscape his or her home.
What Is A Hardscape?
If you are researching your next landscaping project you have probably come across the term hardscape at some point in your studies. While this may be a relatively new form of terminology, the idea behind it is hardly anything new or revolutionary. In fact, most landscaping is a combination of plants and hardscaping of some sort. Whether you are using decks, stone patios and walkways, or pavers for our driveways most of us have some sort of hardscape landscaping in our lawn and garden area. Hardscaping goes well beyond that though in reality. This term can refer to any solid materials you use in landscaping at all. From the borders you use for your boxes to stone paths that line your lawn as well as the rocks and such surrounding your Koi pond (assuming of course that you have one). Even fences, gates, arbors, and gazebos can fall under the title of hardscaping quite accurately. Despite all the years and many advances in technology concrete remains the most popular choice of material when it comes to hardscaping. There are several reasons that this material is such a popular choice not the least of which is cost. Beyond costs, however, are the facts that this material is durable and able in many cases to stand the tests of time, it is a material that can be sealed in order to prolong its life and beauty, and it is easily formed into many new and amazing shapes. You will find that concrete can be used for many hardscaping projects both big and small and many sizes in
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between with grace and beauty few other materials could match. This is one of the primary reasons for its continued popularity. In addition to concrete, stones and bricks are also quite popular when it comes to hardscaping. These materials are each beneficial in their own rights and work to achieve certain looks or atmospheres within the scope of your landscaping projects. Im a sucker for river rock and the old ocean side cottage feel that this can add to landscaping. Others prefer bricks and an Italian countryside feel to their landscaping. Whatever your preference there is hardscaping material that can assist you in accomplishing your landscaping goals. Wood however, will always remain my personal favorite. There is something about wood that says this place is home and it is comfortable and lived in. You can use anything from old railroad lumber to logs for to encourage a very rustic look with your hardscaping. Wood also allows you the opportunity to use barrels and picnic tables at will with your landscaping and feel absolutely no guilt or remorse for doing so. Wood to me is the most inviting and natural of all landscaping materials and truly creates the feeling of an outdoor oasis. The important thing to remember when you are planning your landscaping and hardscaping project is that you are the only one that can recognize and implement your vision. Be creative and have fun but remember that you will be the one living in that space so make it truly and uniquely your own.
Landscape engineering
Landscape engineering or landscaping is the application of mathematics and science to shape land and waterscapes. It can also be described as green engineering, but the design professionals best known for landscape engineering are landscape architects. Landscape engineering is the interdisciplinary application of engineering and other applied sciences to the design and creation of anthropogenic landscapes. It differs from, but embraces traditional reclamation. It includes scientific disciplines: Agronomy, Botany, Ecology, Forestry, Geology, Geochemistry, Hydrogeology, and Wildlife Biology. It also draws upon applied sciences: Agricultural & Horticultural Sciences, Engineering Geomorphology, landscape architecture, and Mining, Geotechnical, and Civil, Agricultural & Irrigation Engineering. Landscape engineering builds on the engineering strengths of declaring goals, determining initial conditions, iteratively designing, predicting performance based on knowledge of the design, monitoring performance, and adjusting designs to meet the declared goals. It builds on the strengths and history of reclamation practice. Its distinguishing feature is the marriage of landforms, substrates, and vegetation throughout all phases of design and construction, which previously have been kept as separate disciplines. Though landscape engineering embodies all elements of traditional engineering (planning, investigation, design, construction, operation, assessment, research, management, and training), it is focused on three main areas. The first is closure planning which includes goal setting and design of the landscape as a whole. The second division is landscape design more focused on the design of individual landforms to reliably meet the goals as set out in the closure planning process. Landscape performance assessment is critical to both of these, and is also important for estimating liability and levels of financial assurance. The iterative process of planning, design, and performance assessment by a multidisciplinary team is the basis of landscape engineering.

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Landscape planning
Landscape planning is a branch of landscape architecture. Urban park systems and greenways of the type planned by Frederick Law Olmsted are key examples of urban landscape planning. Landscape designers tend to work for clients who wish to commission construction work. Landscape planners can look beyond the 'closely drawn technical limits' and 'narrowly drawn territorial boundaries' which constrain design projects. Landscape planners tend to work on projects which:

are of broad geographical scope concern many land uses or many clients are implemented over a long period of time
In rural areas, the damage caused by unplanned mineral extraction was one of the early reasons for a public demand for landscape planning.
In Asia
In India, the history of landscape planning can be traced to the Vedas and to the Vaastu Shastras. These ancient texts set forth principles for planning settlements, temples and other structures in relation to the natural landscape. Relationships with mountains (the home of the gods) and with rivers (regarded as goddesses) were of particular importance. A square form represented the earth and a circular form represented heaven. A mandala explained the relationship between heaven and earth. Square plans, for both secular and religious structures, were set out with their sides facing north, south, east and west. The earliest surviving stone temple set out in this way is Sanchi. In China, landscape planning originated with Feng Shui, which is translated into English as 'wind and water' and is used to describe a set of general principles for the planning of development in relation to the natural landscape. The aim was to find the most auspicious environment possible, one sited in harmony with natural phenomena and the physical and psychological needs of man' (Chinese Architecture by Nancy Steinhardt et al. Yale University Press and New World Press 2002, p. 255)

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In Europe
In Europe, the history of landscape planning can be traced to the work of Vitruvius. In discussing the planning of towns, he wrote about site planning with regard to microclimate, about the planning of streets and about the role of metaphor in design. Vitruvius' theories were revived during the renaissance and came to influence the planning of towns throughout Europe and the Americas. Alberti wrote on the need for town squares for markets. In North Europe this developed into the idea that residential squares should planned around green spaces. The first space of this type was the Place des Vosges. Residential squares were also made in Britain and their planning developed into the idea of incorporating public open space (public parks within towns. Frederick Law Olmsted gave momentum to this idea with his proposal for a park systems in Boston - the famous Emerald Necklace. Patrick Abercrombie took up this idea and incorporated it in his great 1943-4 Open Space Plan for the County of London.
In the US
Landscape architects in the United States of America are active in landscape planning. But, unlike Canada and Europe, the US does not have a national land use planning system. Frederick Law Olmsted and Ian McHarg are the most famous American landscape planners. McHarg's work on overlay landscape planning contributed to the development of GIS and to the foundation of ESRI by Jack Dangermond.
Legislation
The principles of landscape planning are now incorporated in various types of legislation and policy documents. In America, the National Environmental Policy Act was influenced by the work of Ian McHarg on Environmental impact assessment. In Germany, the Federal Nature Conservation Act requires the preparation of landscape plans. For the Europe Union as a whole, the European Landscape Convention has wide-ranging implications for the design and planning of relationships between development and the landscape. In Asia, major development projects are taking place and illustrating the need for good landscape planning. The Three Gorges Dam, for example, will have extensive impacts on the landscape. They have been planned to a degree but future monitoring of the project is likely to show that better landscape planning and design would have been possible.
Landscape design
Landscape design is an independent profession and a design and art tradition, practised by Landscape designers, combining nature and culture. In contemporary practice Landscape design bridges between landscape architecture and garden design.[citation needed]
Design scope
Landscape design focuses on both the integrated master landscape planning of a property and the specific garden design of landscape elements and plants within it. The practical, aesthetic, horticultural, and environmental sustainability components merit Landscape design inclusion. Landscape designers often collaborate with related disciplines such as architecture and geography, soils and civil engineering, surveying, landscape contracting, botany, and artisan specialties. Design project focus can tend towards: in landscape design - artistic composition and artisanship, horticultural finesse and expertise, and a detailed site involvement emphasis from concepts through construction; whereas in landscape architecture - focus of urban planning, city and regional parks, civic and corporate landscapes, large scale interdisciplinary projects, and delegation to contractors
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after completing designs. There can be significant overlap of talents and skills, depending on the education, licensing, and experience of the professional.[citation needed]
Design approach
Factors in designing include objective qualities; such as the climate and microclimates; topography and orientation, site drainage and groundwater recharge; municipal and resource building codes, soils and irrigation, human and vehicular access and circulation, recreational amenities (ie: sports and water), furnishings and lighting, native plant habitat botany when present, property safety and security, construction detailing, and other measurable considerations. Factors in designing also include subjective qualities such as: genius loci (the special site qualities to emphasize); client's needs and preferences; desirable plants and elements to retain on site, modify, or replace, and available to use as borrowed scenery from beyond; artistic composition from perspectives of both looking upon and being in the *gardens; spatial development and definition; plant palettes in designed layouts, and artistic focal points for enjoyment. There are innumerable other design factors and considerations brought to the complex process of designing a garden that is beautiful, well functioning, and thrives over time.[citation needed]
Training
Historically, landscape designers trained by apprenticing, such as Andr Le Ntre to his father before designing the Gardens of Versailles, to accomplished masters in the field, with the titular name varying and reputation paramount for a career. the professional section of garden designers in Europe and the Americas went by the name 'Landscape Gardener.' In the 1890s the distinct classification of landscape architect was created, with educational and licensing test requirements for using the title legally. Beatrix Farrand, the sole woman in the founding group, refused the title preferring Landscape Gardener. Matching the client and technical needs of a project, and the appropriate practitioner with talent, legal qualifications, and experienced skills, surmounts title nomenclature.[citation needed] Institutional education in landscape design appeared in the early 20th century. Over time it became available at various levels. Ornamental horticulture programs with design components are offered at community college and universities within schools of agriculture or horticulture, with some beginning to offer garden or landscape design certificates and degrees. Departments of landscape architecture are located within university schools of architecture or environmental design, with undergraduate and graduate degrees offered. Specialties and 'minors' are available, such as in horticultural botany, horticulture, natural resources, landscape engineering, construction management, fine and applied arts, and landscape design history. Traditionally, hand drawn drawings documented the design and position of features for construction, while Landscape design software is frequently used now.[citation needed] Other routes of training are through informal apprenticeships with practicing landscape designers, landscape architects, landscape contractors, gardeners, nurseries and garden centers, and docent programs at botanical and public gardens. Since the landscape designer title does not have college degree or licensing requirements to be used, there is a very wide range of sophistication, aesthetic talent, technical expertise, and specialty strengths to be responsibly matched with specific client and project requirements.[citation needed]
Gardening
Many landscape designers have an interest and involvement with gardening, personally or professionally. Some integrate this scope with their design practice, informally or as licensed
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landscape contractors. Gardens are dynamic and not static after construction and planting are completed, and so in some ways 'never done.' Involvement with landscape management and direction of ongoing garden direction, evolution, and care occurring depend on the professional's and client's needs and inclinations. As with the other interrelated landscape disciplines, their can be overlap of services offered under the titles of landscape designer or professional gardener.[citation needed]
Garden Design
The way you want to design your garden says a lot about who you are and your personal taste. There is no right or wrong way to design a garden. It should appeal to those who will be accessing it on a regular basis. Like your home, a garden is a place to relax and feel comfortable with the surroundings. Garden design can be fun, but it can also be overwhelming trying to find the right combination of equipment and materials to get everything set up as you want it. Too often, individuals dont realize that the location of their garden as well as the effect the plants, flowers, and trees have with change with the various seasons. It is a good idea to decide how large your garden area is going to be. This will help you decide on the size and type of features you are going to add to it. Next, draw a rough layout plan for your garden design. Using a garden design software can be a great way to get a realistic view of your layout. This type of software is simple you use, yet very effective. With a simple click, see how the layout effect changes by simply adding or changing one element. This is the best way to know exactly what you are getting. Garden design will be less expensive if you do the work yourself. However, some individuals are not physically able to do the work or dont have the time to commit to the project. A landscaping contractor or designer can assist you with making your garden the design you imagined. If you draw up plans or use software to create one, be sure to share this information with the company planning to complete the work to ensure everyone is seeing the vision in the same light. The ability to design your garden is exciting and fascinating. Using the right tools can take the guess work out of the final results. There are many great books you can look over to get garden design ideas. The internet is also a great resource.
Landscaping Materials
Taking the time to landscape your home will be an investment of your time and money that you can be very proud of. The landscaping of a home is something most everyone coming to your home will see as well as those just walking by. Enjoying your landscaping can bring a breath of fresh air to your day when you arrive home. It can also serve as a great place to entertain guests. There are many types of landscaping materials to choose from. There are no right or wrong products to use; it simply depends on what you want to create. However, it is important to purchase quality products that will work well for you. One of the most popular landscaping materials is decorative rock. There are many wonderful colors and styles of rocks to choose from. These can be small red lava rocks or white Arkansas River rocks as well as huge boulders. It all depends on the size of your yard and the overall effect you want to have. Cobblestone rock is an excellent choice as it has a classic look that works well with all types of landscaping projects.
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Various types of plants, trees, and flowers will accent any landscaping project. It is important to find out what types grow well in your region. You will also want to consider color patterns for visual appeal. Purchase quality seeds, bulbs, plants, and small trees from garden centers, green houses, and landscaping supply companies. Making sure you have the right soil in place will increase the chances of your landscaping flourishing. There are many types of top soil, planting soil, mulch, and fertilizer. The one you choose will depend on what you are planting, the type of soil you already have, and the region you live in. Redwood and cedar bark are a great way to add color and appeal to your landscaping. Bark is very useful for reducing the amount of weeds that grow. It is also a great way to prevent the water from draining away from the area. Statues, pottery, and other decorations add wonders to your landscaping design. There are many types to choose from and each type offers various styles and sizes. You will find so many options in this area that it can be very difficult to choose. One thing to consider is how much time you want to spend on maintaining these items. Statues and pottery dont require much except a good cleaning a few times a year to keep them looking nice. Water falls, fountains, and ponds are beautiful yet they require continuous upkeep. There are many great landscaping materials to choose from in your efforts to create the perfect landscape design for your home. It is important to consider how materials look together before purchasing them. If possible draw up a diagram of your landscaping design or use landscaping design software to visually see how your landscaping material choices will look. This is a great tool that allows you to try many options before making a commitment.
Hard landscape materials

The term hard landscape is used by practitioners of landscape architecture and garden design to describe the construction materials which are used to improve a landscape by design. The corresponding term soft landscape materials is used to describe plant materials. A wide range of hard landscape materials can be used, such as brick, gravel, rock or stone, concrete, timber, bitumen, glass, metals, etc. 'Hard landscape' can also describe outdoor furniture and other landscape products.
What Equipment To Use For Landscaping:

Five Landscaping Tools You Should Always Have
In order to keep your beautifully landscaped yard in tip top condition, there are several must have tools to maintain your yards beauty. Not only will this make maintenance easier, it also helps to keep from damaging your plants that you so carefully picked and added to your landscaping. The first tool you need is a small tiller. This tool is good for breaking up the ground for proper water penetration, weed control and aeration. It is extremely important that the ground be penetrable for watering, for fertilization and for oxygen. This tool is also a good idea if you plan on planting annuals, so you can prepare the soil in the spring planting season.
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The second tool that you need is a small trowel. This tool can be used to dig the holes to plant your annuals, or for digging up weeds in the hard to reach areas with bigger tools. If you would need to transplant some of you plants, this the tool to use so you can carefully dig up your smaller plants with as little root and stalk damage as possible. The third tool that you need if you have shrubs and bushes would be a pruning tool. You will have to trim stems and branches to keep your plants in nice looking form and to trim off dying or dead branches. Some plants can also have a woody or very fibrous inner core, so it is more beneficial to use a pruning tool to keep as little damage possible to your plants. The fourth tool that you need is a weeding tool. This type of tool can save you a lot of time in the weeding department. There are a number of different weeding tools to choose from. From, hand held tine rakes to motorized tillers, you will need to select the type of weeding tools you will need based on the size of the garden and landscaping area. The fifth tool that you need is a spade, also often called a garden shovel. This tool would be beneficial for digging up larger areas of ground, working the soil and prying and loosening the soil. It can be used for edging a garden bed or for compacting soil. A sixth tool that you could use is a sprayer. Sprayers come in all shapes and sizes. They are used to water hard to reach areas. They are used to spray insecticides and they are used to fertilize plants and areas of your landscape. Depending on the area you need to work with will also depend on the size and capacity of the sprayer tool you use. To small of a sprayer and you will be constantly refilling. To large a sprayer and you may not be able to get it into delicate areas without damaging plants and other landscaping features. A seventh tool to have is a three prong cultivator. This tool is great for breaking up the ground and keeping the soil loose. A cultivating tool can also be used to help control weeds in the more open areas although you need to be careful with such tool so you do not damage the extended roots of trees and plants in your garden. An eighth tool that is handy is a spring brace rake. The rakes will help you keep your landscaping areas free of debris and dead leaves. They can also be used to even out the ground areas around plants for a not uniform appeal visually. By no means are these listed tools the only tools that will make your gardening experience easier and much more enjoyable. They are the most common and recommended tools you should have in your gardening and landscaping tool set. If you are on a budget these tools are also very cost effective for the most part. And most of these tools are very simple to use. With a little patience and time you can have your landscaping looking as if a professional had been at work. Landscape equipments can be divided into two independent entities. One is the landscape making equipments and the other is the landscape maintenance equipments. You can see the details about both in this article.

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Capital Landscaping Equipment
Landscaping requires many types of equipment to be used when you are planning the landscaping. All of them are portable equipments that are taken out when the work is complete and an average house owner is not expected to own them for the maintenance of the garden or the landscaping. The landscaping is done with the help of huge trucks and front wheel loaders loading the earth from some places in the garden and putting it in places where it is required. In creating landscape, the smaller hills are added, sand traps are added where none exists and artificial lakes are added for overall effect. This requires large-scale movement of the earth & sand and it cannot be done manually. New artificial waterfalls, if required, can be added for the desired effect. The machinery for the waterfalls (e.g. the pump, the pipe, and the final outflow for the artificial waterfall) can tested and buried so that it does not show its ugly face on the landscape. While the land is getting into its desired shape, the electrical accessories that are expected to be permanently underground are put in before construction can proceed further. The storm water drains have also to be designed properly so that when it rains, the landscaping is not disturbed. The pipes for watering the plants and the lawns are also installed at this stage.
After the land gets the desired hillocks, the desired lakes, and desired shape, the next step is getting the pathways and the curbing. Depending on the pathways design, the pathways can be made of concrete or tar facing can be made for the road. All this is done with the help of large landscaping machines. The landscaping machines also include the landscape curbing equipments that can come in when the roads are laid and make the pathways complete and segregate it by making the curbing with help of landscape curbing machines. After the curbing is done with help of landscape curbing equipments, the landscape is now complete and the finishing touches like electrical decoration, waterfalls, lake filling, and sand trap filling can be done.
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When the landscape is being completed, the plants continue to grow in the nursery, and at this time, the plants can be transplanted and put in position, the growing of the lawns can also be started now.
Landscape Equipments For Maintenance

The landscape equipment that a common person needs will consist of the lawn mowers, lawn tractors and other tractor-mounted equipments.
Toro Landscape Equipment

Toro is one of the bigger manufacturers of equipments for the homeowner and makes equipments for maintenance of the home gardens, small or large. The six models of the blowers and leaf suckers feature at the top of the list. The list of equipments also includes the sprinkler system, mowers and lawn tractors, snow throwers, hedge trimmers, (both corded and cordless types), lawn and garden tractors and utility loaders.
The list is complete and useful for a small or large garden. The site http://www.toro.com/customercare/homeowner/ is interactive and gives useful information about the products made by the company. The site is worth visiting if you are interested in any of the equipments for the maintenance of your landscape small or vast not withstanding. Changes to Landscape Some changes to the landscape can be easily made by digging up an area and filling up other areas. Mounds of earth can be easily transported, new hillocks created, and the landscape can be changed to suit your imagination. The new landscape can then be covered with green garden. Your garden can be made to look like a new garden with the tractor-mounted equipment. All this can be done without calling for any contractor. The saving in money and efforts can pay for the cost of the tractor-mounted equipment in a short period.
If you wish to change the look of the garden without digging up the whole garden, you can use horizontal boring attachments. These attachments can create a tunnel for the new cable to be introduced in your garden, without digging up the whole garden this is a new technique known as HDD (horizontal direct drilling) or landscape horizontal drilling equipment
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These attachments can change the look of the garden by putting new pipes for water, electrical cables, and new sprinkler systems without digging up the garden. The lawns remain as they were and you just get a new facility without ghastly scar marks on the well-maintained lawns. This is a good technique when you wish to make changes to your landscape. Tractor Mounted Landscape Equipments The tractor mounted landscape equipments are useful to the average homeowner and the tractor can do a number of jobs other than just tilling the land. The front-end loader attachment can do changes to the landscape if your requirement is not too large. The tractor can also be used for lawn mowing, tiling, supplying power to various other equipments, (through power take off point or PTO point) used in the garden. It can be used as a PTO machine for the snow thrower for clearing snow from road leading to your house so that your car can go easily. In fact, imaginative uses can be found for many landscaping equipments. The tractor-mounted equipments come in handy when the power is cut off during calamities like flood or earthquake etc. Tractors can be used for driving generators during such times. Tractors with their power take off point are very useful during the time of calamities. Thus, you can see that there are two distinct types of equipments, one for capital changes to your landscape and the other being for maintenance of your landscape. Once you complete landscape according to your liking, you may not need the equipments any time later. The maintenance of the landscape and smaller changes can be done without asking for the bigger equipments. Smaller equipments and innovative solutions can be used to change the landscape to your taste later. The money spent on the larger equipments will thus have to be done only once. The larger equipments can do the work in short time. If you intend to do this work with smaller equipments, you might take a long time. Therefore, choose between the larger equipments depending on the time available with you.
Landscape Equipment and Mower Attachments

Landscaping Equipment - Lesco / John Deere PermaGreen Cub Cadet Commercial Equipment Top Dressers Hydroseeding Equipment Lawn Mower Attachments
Trailer Attachments and Accessories

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Fastrap Tie Down System Backpack Blower Rack Xtreme Series Water Cooler Rack Xtreme Series Trimmer Line Spool Rack Hedge Trimmer Rack Open Trailer Hand Tool Rack Small Hand Tool Rack Large Hand Tool Rack Multi-Use Rack for Open and Enclosed Trailers Rope & Hose Rack Siderail Extension - Three sizes available Domestic Truck Mounting Kit Trailer Tailgate Lift Assist Trimmer Racks Heavy Equipment Ball and Ring Trailer Hitch Lock Hide a Hitch Heavy Duty Wheel Lock - Boot Wheel Lock Gas Can Storage Racks Sprayer Rack / Multi-Use Rack
Fertilizer - Salt Spreaders - Applicators

Granular Applicators Fertilizer Spreaders Salt Spreaders - Ice Melt Spreader
Landscape & Property Management Tools

Kawasaki Handheld Power Products Turf, Lawn and Hand Tools Theft Deterrants & Security Testing, Measuring / Calibration Safety Hardware & Accessories Professional Hand Rakes and Shovels Irrigation and Lighting Installation Tools Brush Grubber - Tree and Stump Removal Arbor and Tree Care Weed / Pest/ Bird Control
Golf and Sports Field Equipment

Golf Accessories Hand Maintenance Tools Field Maintenance Equipment Replacement Bed Knives, Reels, Rollers True Grit Lapping Compound Club Car Replacement Parts EZ Go Replacement Parts Jacobson Replacement Parts John Deere Replacement Parts Toro Replacement Parts
Commercial Compost Tea Brewers

Compost Tea Brewers - 4 Commercial Models Compost Tea Catalyst
Replacement Mower Parts

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AYP/Craftsman/Sears Replacement Mower Parts Bad Boy Replacement Mower Parts Bobcat Mower Replacement Parts Bunton Replacement Mower Parts Bush Hog Replacement Mower Parts Case Replacement Mower Parts Cub Cadet Replacement Mower Parts Dixie Chopper Replacement Mower Parts Dixon Replacement Mower Parts Encore Replacement Mower Parts EverRide Replacement Mower Parts ExMark Replacement Mower Parts Ferris Replacement Mower Parts Great Dane Replacement Mower Parts Grasshopper Replacement Mower Parts Gravely Replacement Mower Parts Hako Replacement Mower Parts Honda Replacement Mower Parts Husqvarna Replacement Mower Parts Hustler Replacement Mower Parts Jacobsen Replacement Mower Parts John Deere Mower Replacement Parts Kubota Replacement Mower Parts Lastec Replacement Mower Parts Lawn-Boy Replacement Mower Parts Lesco Replacement Mower Parts Maxim Replacement Mower Parts MTD Replacement Mower Parts Murray Replacement Mower Parts Scag Replacement Mower Parts Scotts Replacement Mower Parts Snapper/Massey Replacement Mower Parts Toro Mower Replacement Parts Walker Replacement Mower Parts Yazoo/Kees Replacement Mower Parts Lawn Mower Tools
Replacement Trimmer, Edger and Blower Parts

Trimmer Line Replacement Trimmer Heads Echo Handheld Equipment Replacement Parts Stihl Handheld Equipment Replacement Parts Shindaiwa Handheld Equipment Replacement Parts Kawasaki Parts Husqvarna Replacement parts Red Max Handheld Equipment Replacement Parts Brushcutter BladesHedge Trimmer Blades
Replacement Equipment Aerator Tines, Rake Teeth, Blades

TurfCo replacement Tines and Overseeder Blade Set Bluebird replacement Teeth Bluebird replacement Belts page 1 Bluebird replacement Belts page 2 Ryan replacement Belts - 1/2 inch Ryan replacement Belts 5/8 inch Ryan replacement Blade and Tines
Replacement Tires and Wheels

Carlisle Tubeless Turf Tires CST Tubeless Turf Tires CST Tube Type Tires Tire Tubes Replacement Tires and Wheels for Rittenhouse Equipment
Briggs & Stratton, Kawasaki, Kohler, Honda Subaru/Robin & Tecumseh Engines and Engine Parts
Briggs & Stratton Cummins/Onan Honda Engines Kawasaki Kohler Subaru/Robin Tecumseh Wisconsin Engine Accessories Decorative Concrete Sprayers Hardscape Tools Bon Tools EZ-Set Lifting Frames

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Garden Center / Greenhouse Tools

Humidification Seeding Tools Disinfection / Cleanup / Various Greenhouse
Watering & Irrigation Supply

Watering Equipment | Indoor & Outdoor Watering Hand Watering Tools Water Hoses & Accessories Irrigation Tools - Irrigation Supplies Injectors & Timers Kochek Products
Waterscaping
Fountains and Aerators by Kasco Aeration Systems by Vertex Watergarden and Pond Accessories Algae Control & Water Conditioning Oase Products Water Features for any size property Pumps for Ponds Water Treatments and Fish Food by Microbe-Lift Water Treatments by Bacta Pur Dye for Ponds Pond Balance combats String Algae Fall and Winterizing of your Pond
Ropes and Rope Bags for the Portable Winch Snatch Blocks and Shackles for the Portable Winch Slings and Chokers for the Portable Winch Winch anchor mounts for the Portable Winch Storage Cases for the Portable Winch Portable Winch Forestry Assortment for the Portable Winch Multi-Purpose Assortment for the Portable Winch Hunting Assortment for the Portable Winch
PortaPump and PortaVibe The Four Stroke Lightweight PortaPump is a unique dewatering pump that has endless uses. Remove unwanted water from golf course bunkers, flooded yards, window wells, koi ponds etc. No electricity required. The PortaVibe is an optional extension for vibrating concrete Compost Tea Brewer & Compost Tea Catalyst Brew a batch of Compost Tea in this 10 gallon 'Brewer' within 24 hours. Designed with industrial grade components. As seen in Martha Stewart's blog regarding Compost Tea. Skid Mount 12 Volt Watering System A 30 gallon, portable watering unit designed for outdoor or indoor watering. The 32x20 frame fits conveniently on most garden centre carts or utility vehicles. Xtreme Series Trimmer Line Spool Rack Keep your Line Spool in place with this functional rack. It has a line cutter built in.
Quick View
Paver and Wall Splitter The Bon Tool Paver and Wall Splitter easily cuts paver and retaining wall units. Very mobile piece of equipment. Portable Winch A Portable, gas powered winch with endless uses. It can be used for forestry, rescue, game hunting, boats -- anything.
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HOW TO BUILD A GARDEN BENCH

Youve put together a wonderful garden. Your hard work has paid off. The flowers are in bloom and the vegetables are growing. Its a perfect compliment to your attractive yard. After all of those hours of hard work, you can finally enjoy the fruits of your labors. Unfortunately, you have to stand in order to do so. You dont have a bench. Sure, you could drag out a folding lawn chair in which to sit as you watch your flowers bob in the wind, but that is an inconvenient solution. Its also impractical if youd like to spend some outdoor time with a loved one enjoying the view and your handiwork. You need a bench. Yes, you could go to the store and buy a bench. One of two things is likely to happen, though. Either you will end up paying a fortune for an ornate, heavy bench or you will be forced to trade cost-consciousness for low quality. Additionally, you might not be able to find something in the stores that looks right for your yard or garden. You need to build a bench. You can build your own garden bench and its construction will be limited only by your own creativity or research. There are literally hundreds of tested garden bench plans available commercially, and one of them might be perfect for you. Alternatively, you can look past the blueprints and opt to put together your own original creation. You might use some of the recommendations and ideas within those various plans to guide your own construction, but there is no reason to feel bound by them. If you have a formal garden and a need for something with an elegant look, your work will be cut out for you. Expect to pay close attention to detail and to spend plenty of time on your project. If, however, you are less concerned with impressing foreign dignitaries and would be happy with a simple rustic garden bench that fits nicely with the outdoor experience and possesses a natural feel, you may be able to build what you need without expending that much effort. In fact, a large log on its side might even do the trick, but most of us probably want to go a step further than natures own bench. As you plot your bench plan, remember that all you really need to get the job done is a bench, two similarly sized supports and some way to fasten them together. That may involve two overturned planting barrels, a couple of long enough 2 x 6 planks and a handful of bolts. It could mean two carefully measured posts sunk into the ground and cemented in place with concrete with a seat spanning the gap between them. If you want to challenge your carpentry skills, consider adding a back to your bench, or perhaps even armrests. You can make the bench-building process as quick and easy or as detailed and complicated as youd like. The goal is to produce a comfortable and sufficiently stable place from which you can take in a breath of fresh air and enjoy your garden and property. Your exact preferences and needs will vary based upon your aesthetic sensibilities and the overall look and feel of your garden and home. However, if you arent interested in overspending for a commercially available garden bench, you can build one yourself. You invested countless hours to getting things just right in your garden and you are finally pleased with the look of your property. After all of that work, it seems like a shame to spend every waking moment indoors, seeing it only when you crane your neck toward a window. By building a comfortable garden bench, you can enjoy the scenery from the best seat outside of the house.

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HOW TO BUILD A RETAINING WALL

Retaining walls are a common need. Many properties have sloping or uneven yards. Those frequent issues can create a practical need for retaining wall construction. They also provide opportunities to use retaining walls as an aesthetic landscaping effort. There are many types of retaining walls. Every situation is different, and the unique contours of the property in question and ones personal needs will dictate the best possible style and construction in each case. One popular retaining wall plan is wood-based and can be a perfect choice for smaller needs. A wooden retaining wall may not be suited if one needs a particularly tall wall, the method well discuss is best suited for walls less than three feet in height. Additionally, it may not be a preferred solution for those who want to do it and forget it indefinitely because even treated lumber has functional lifespan far shorter than stone or concrete alternatives. In many situations, however, this wooden system will meet ones needs splendidly. The first step in building a retaining wall involves creating the cut. This refers to the ditch-like outline that will serve as a roadmap for building the wall itself. One can use a shovel to create the cut. After determining the desired height for the wall, one should cut 4 x 4 posts to the desired length. When cutting the posts, it is important to remember to consider the depth at which they will be planted into the ground. Sufficient depth is necessary to provide stability for the wall. Optimal depths will vary based upon the height of the retaining wall and the nature of the property. Often, building codes will dictate the necessary planting depth. Following the cut, one then digs the holes for the posts for the wall. Support posts will be placed along the cut in 4 intervals. After the holes are ready, the posts are placed within them and concrete is poured around them until the area is filled to the surface level. It is important to make sure the posts are true and that they run straight. Crooked posts can affect both the appearance and durability of the retaining wall. After the concrete is poured and leveled, one should allow it to sit, undisturbed, for several days. This allows the concrete to cure and produces a durable, rigid framework for the retaining wall. Once the concrete is cured, one fastens boards to the outside of the post frame. Often, retaining wall builders rely upon 2 x 6 or 2 x 12 boards for this purpose. It is important to make sure the boards are cut in lengths that correspond to the framework formed by the 4 x 4 posts. The boards should be bolted to the posts using large carriage bolts small bolts or nails are inadequate for the job. At this point, the wall itself is built. However, there is more work to do. One should dig out a series of small tunnels under the wall. These will serve as drainage ports and should be filled with small rocks or gravel. The area behind the wall should then be filled. One should begin by filling the cut with at least 6 of small rocks or gravel before adding fill dirt and soil to level off the construction. This simple retaining wall plan will work wonderfully for smaller jobs. If you need a larger retaining wall, however, you may want to consider stone or concrete alternatives. The earth behind a retaining wall does exert a great deal of pressure, and larger walls necessitate the sturdiest possible construction.

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There are many reasons to consider building a retaining wall. It may be a matter of necessity, or it could be an attractive means of implementing a planting or landscaping plan. In any case, the process doesnt need to be difficult. Building a wooden retaining wall will require some effort, but the process is not complicated and shouldnt be overwhelming to most property owners.
TIPS FOR GROWING GORGEOUS HOSTA PLANTS

Hostas are one of the most frequently used landscaping elements. These attractive plants are available in a variety of sizes and colors. In addition to their unparalleled aesthetic appeal, they are also notoriously hearty, making them a fine choice for landscaping projects of all sorts in a wide variety of locations. However, the strong hosta is not invincible. If you fail to treat your hostas properly, you can experience disappointing results. Hostas can become one of the most attractive parts of your overall plan if they are treated correctly. Let us look at a few tips for growing the best possible hostas for your landscaping needs. We will consider three general areas of hosta plant care: sunlight issues, planting considerations and pest control. SUNLIGHT MATTERS The hosta plant is tolerant of shade, but will grow better when sunlight is available. If you place your hostas in a deeply shaded area, they may survive. However, they will not thrive. Ideally, you will find a hosta location that provides sunshine in the morning and shade during the hotter afternoon hours. The plants are quite receptive to that arrangement. When hostas are placed in full afternoon sun, they can burn. This decreases their attractiveness and limits their potential for growth. Although hosta plants will handle up to six hours of sunlight per day, you should try to limit that exposure to earlier time periods. PLANTING MATTERS When planting your hostas, make sure they have adequate room to grow. One of the most common errors in handling hosta plants is failing to consider the eventual size of the mature plant. You should plant your hostas in holes that are at least a full foot in depth. The hole should be approximately two times the anticipated width of the fully grown plant. If you keep quarters too tight, the plant will not thrive. The soil itself is important, too. Hostas grow best in well-drained, nutrient-rich soils with a slightly elevated pH level. They do require regular watering and application of a good balanced fertilizer (preferably in granular form) is recommended on a regular basis. Hostas will grow without the added nutrients in many cases, but they are far more likely to reach their full potential when the landscaper optimizes conditions for them. Different varieties of hostas may have slightly different needs. Thus, it is a good idea to do some specific research regarding the varieties you are considering for your landscape in order to handle planting as effectively as possible. PEST MATTERS Hostas are tough, but they are not invulnerable to attack. Hostas can fall prey to pests. They seem to be particularly attractive to snails and slugs. These pests often avoid detection until signs of damage emerge. It is a good idea to use special bait/pesticides around the base of your hostas to keep them safe from these predators. These products are widely available at most hardware, garden and home stores. There are organic products and deterrents available, too, for those who prefer to pursue other options. Those products tend to be slightly less effective, but if used correctly can deter attacks from snails and slugs.

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In more rural areas, slightly bigger predators may also victimize hostas. Deer and other wildlife have a distinct appreciation for hosta plants and can also be a problem. There is little you can reasonably do at the point of the actual plant to prevent these intrusions, but if wildlife is disrupting your landscape, you will want to consider appropriate fencing and protection for the area. Hostas make a perfect addition to many landscapes. Their beauty and resilience make them an attractive part of many plans. Following these tips for hosta growth will help you get the most out of these wonderful plants.
BUILDING A TIRE SWING

Tire swings are an American tradition. They have been a fun addition to yards for decades and kids still love them. They are also one of the easiest ways to add another fun dimension to the yard. However, there is more to building a tire swing than tying your spare to a tree limb with a rope. Of course, it all starts with locating an appropriately sized and sufficiently strong tree limb. Now, lets look at what you will need to do after finding that perfect branch in order to construct a great tire swing. THE TIRE There are two things about which to be concerned when selecting your swings tire. First, you need to think about the cleanliness of the tire. Unless you make an effort to clean the tire completely, you can expect to have filthy kids smelling like rubber gathered around your dining room table. Wash the tire at high pressure at the car wash and then scrub it down by hand using a high-powered cleaner containing bleach. Youll never make a tire swing totally clean, but you can cut down on the filth tremendously. Second, you need to think about safety. When tire swings were first built, they used the same tires that used to be on car. These were old bias tires with an internal balloon. They were made out of rubber. Todays radial tires are stronger, firmer, and are steel belted. A well-worn radial will feature exposed (and incredibly sharp wires). Make sure you choose a tire that wont result in scratches, cuts and sharp pain! If you can find a used old school tire, use it. Dont forget to drill a few sizeable holes through the portion of the tire that will form the bottom of the swing. You dont want water to gather within the tire after every rain.
THE ROPE You want to use a rope with a large diameter. Smaller ropes may seem adequate, but they will give way when tension increases as your child swings higher and higher. Select a fat rope that is obviously stronger than what you will probably need. This will increase both safety and durability. Protect the rope by using a piece of rubber hose at the area where it will loop around the tree limb. Find a piece of hose slightly bigger than the rope and make sure the protected area will be the portion that rests on the tree. This will protect the most critical part of the rope from the elements. Make sure your purchase enough rope. If you get too little, you will either have to skimp on your knots or have a swing that sits too high. Neither of those options is acceptable. Determine the length needed by adding about ten feet to the distance from the limb to where the tire will hang. AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD
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THE KNOTS When you knot the rope, you wont need to pull out a nautical manual. You can make do with a common square knot. There is no reason to get too exotic with your tie-off strategy. The most important thing to remember are to make sure the knot is incredibly strong and is doubled up. Never rely upon a single know. When tying your knot at the tree limb, make sure the rubber protective hose is at the point of contact. It wont do much good elsewhere. Dont neglect the bottom knot. Take the knot the fastens the tire just as seriously as the high not. Double it up and make it snug. Test it as much as possible and insure its strength before allowing a child to play on the swing. Besides, if the swing wont support you, its probably not safe enough for the kids. By following a few simple recommendations, you can make a rope swing the kids will love. Its a traditional favorite and is one of the quickest and easiest way to add some fun to your property.
3 LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR YOUR LAWN

We often have a do it and forget it mentality. Once a task is completed, we do not give it a second thought. Instead, we move on to whatever is next in line. That attitude may work in some areas, but it certainly is not appropriate for the care and nurturing of your propertys landscape. Great landscaping does not stem exclusively from those days of planning and planting. Your property is a growing, living thing. You can set something beautiful into motion, but in order to get the most out of your landscaping plans, you will need to conduct regular maintenance. You will need to address the yards needs and to be proactive in order to prevent the development of problems that could completely derail your plans. Our lawn is a critical part of our overall landscape, in most cases. Grass frequently forms the basis from which the rest of our landscaping efforts emerge. A good looking, healthy lawn is a necessity for those seeking landscaping success. The lawn in the canvas upon which landscapers paint. Understanding the importance of great grass and the need for regular landscaping maintenance let us look at three things you can do to keep your property attractive and in line with your landscaping vision. These three lawn care tips are all out of season activities you can do to improve your landscapes health and beauty. FALL FERTILIZATION Fertilization is a perfect example of maintenance for landscapes. It is one of those regular things that you simply cannot afford to neglect. Every year, as the end of autumn approaches, you should apply a final dose of fertilizer to your grass. The lawn will absorb those nutrients and they will help to keep it strong, healthy throughout the winter, and ready to explode into growth when things warm up again. WINTER CLEANING If your lawn is smothered in any location, it can do a great deal of harm. Before the really cold weather sits in, walk your property and carefully remove any debris from the lawn. Things like tree branches, logs, your childrens toys or that shovel you have been meaning to put back into AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD
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the garage can do serious damage if left in place through the winter. Smothered grass is less disease resilient and may even die completely. You certainly do not want to usher in spring with a brown ring in the middle of the yard! AERATION Aerate the grassy area before the years first freeze. As winter comes, thatch will accumulate and your lawn can be choked off. A serious aeration and that aforementioned fall fertilization will prepare your lawn to last out the cold and will position in for maximum spring performance. You can rent an aerator at any hardware store, if you do not own your own. Some people claim to get more than satisfactory results from manual aeration strategies, including special slip-on shoe cleats. Give your lawn a chance to breathe through the winter and it will thank you in the spring. These are only three of literally thousands of potential landscaping maintenance tasks you can perform. These three means of improving your lawns health, however, do reveal why maintenance activity is necessary. If you simply let things go, you run the risk of undoing all of your hard work and encountering disappointing results. Last years landscaping accomplishment can become next years embarrassment if maintenance is not taken seriously. Remember, you landscape is not a pretty picture that, once painted, remains in place forever. It is a constantly growing and changing collection of living things. It is, in many ways, an organism unto itself. In order to nurture it effectively, you will need to revisit it frequently. That is what maintenance is really all about.
Landscaping Lighting Ideas

Adding light to illuminate your landscaping is a brilliant way to bring it to life. There are many great lighting ideas to choose from that will enhance the beauty of your landscaping without taking away the appeal. Adjustable flood lights work very well. They provide a great deal of light to the area. Pathway lights come in many colors and shapes, so you can pick one that blends well with your landscaping. Pagoda lighting offers a unique dcor of its own. They come in an array of shapes and sizes to meet your needs. They stay in the ground with built in stakes. Pagoda lights come in very low wattage of 12 volts up to 120 volts. There are themed landscaping lights that actually appear to be a part of the landscaping. Choose from birds, seashells, snails, turtles, and frogs. Each one of these lovely landscaping creatures are ceramic with a hidden light inside to illuminate your landscaping after dark. Solar landscaping lights are a great idea. Not only do they offer lighting, but they are either free to operate or cost very little. These lights absorb energy from the sun throughout the day and store it. As it gets dark, that energy is converted to light. If the lights have not absorbed enough power to run all night, they will switch to electricity. Solar lights come in a variety of shapes and sizes to enhance the beauty of your landscaping. Landscaping lighting is a wonderful way to add color and appeal to your home after dark. Most of these lights are very easy to install and operate on a low amount of electricity, with some even using solar power. Landscaping lights can be purchased at most home improvement stores as well as on the internet. They are available in many shapes, colors, and sizes. The prices vary depending on what you are in the market for. With so many options, you are sure to find exactly what you are searching for.
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Shrubs That Grow The Fastest

So you just moved into that new house and want to do some landscaping. Or you have new neighbors that like to know all the happenings on your block. Or like many places traffic on main country roads has picked up so much that you almost have a line of cars going down your road. You have decided that you would like to plant some shrubs as deterrence or for privacy reasons and to your way of thinking you would like this to happen fast. You are now wondering what kind of shrubs you can purchase that will not only enhance your landscaping but also grow fast to accomplish your main goal. The Redosier Dogwood is a fine example of a fast growing shrub. This deciduous shrub is widely known for its winter interests for its stunning red stems. This shrub can provide a fast mid-size screen in the summer months. It produces white flowers in the late spring only to give you the gift of stunning white fruit in the late summer. This shrub grows 7-9 feet tall with about the same size circumference. Not only would you be quieting up your yard and avoiding the neighbors, you would also be adding additional beauty to your landscaping at the same time. The Leyland Cypress is a shrub that everyone is seeking out. The are very fast growing and grow up rather that out. If you Leyland Cypress if very happy, this bush will bless you with three to four feet of vertical every growing season. So it is very easy to see why this is becoming a very popular shrub. The normal color of this shrub is a very dark green. But wait, it also comes in bluish greens, gold, gray and bright green. This shrub can grow from fifty to seventy feet high, but with proper trimming and pruning you will be able to maintain the size of this shrub that you desire. The lilac is also another good choice in a fast growing shrub. They are easily maintained and you get the added benefits of fragrance of the lilacs. This is a must have in my yard as I love lilac. I have lilac candles, carpet deodorizer, scented oils and air aromatizes. Needless to say, this is one aroma that I cant live without. If your into the old fashioned type of shrubs, the are an abundance of nurserys today that have acquired seeds from all of the true plants. None of the man-made hybrids that have been created in todays scheme. I would personally prefer the old fashion shrubs myself. The do remind me of grandmother and great-grandmother. My grandfather was an avid gardener. I remember going through his vegetable garden, sitting down and eating vegetables straight from the plant. I remember all the beautiful flowers he planted. He did this almost up the day he died. After he became terminally ill, a family member would take him to his gardens and he would still work in them as much as he could. To me the old fashioned shrubs and flowers, even though flowers are not in the subject, bring me back to a time when life was easier, tranquil and when family traditions and standards where at their most important. When I look at these old fashioned shrubs, they remind of these very important things. But the choice is yours and yours alone. There are many beautiful hybrids shrub out today that are still beautiful and maybe even a little more beautiful. The choices can be overwhelming, but in the end what ever you decide to add to your landscaping or change, you will have years of enjoyment.
FAST GROWING TREES

Trees are a critical part of landscaping. They are essential parts of most plans due to the unique combination of aesthetic and practical value they bring to any situation. There is AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD
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nothing quite like a tree in terms of appearance. Large trees add a feeling of maturity to a property while simultaneously serving as a compositional counterpoint to the landscaping efforts on the ground. The beautiful giants of landscaping can make or break the appearance of a property. If you consider some of the most beautiful and attractive properties you have encountered, the trees involved in the landscaping were probably a large part of the overall appeal. Looks, however, are just the beginning. Trees are immensely popular on pragmatic grounds, as well. Trees are a widely recognized means by which to improve a homes overall energy efficiency. They serve as a barrier to the harsh elements of winter and provide shade to keep homes cooler during the summer. Some estimates claim that the use of trees can decrease overall energy consumption by twenty percent (or more) per year. That makes trees a wise investment, considering the always-increasing price of energy. It also adds another layer of comfort to a home. Trees also offer practical environmental advantages. As we all learned in grade school science classes, trees do us all a service by soaking up unbreathable gases and converting them efficiently into the oxygen we need. The environmental movement has long recommended planting additional trees as a means of staving off various potentially negative environmental scenarios and as a counterpoint to pollution. Obviously, trees offer some fantastic benefits and it is not surprising that most landscapers and homeowners want to integrate them into landscaping plans. Unfortunately, there is a problem with using trees--especially in newly developed areas where none are already present. The mighty trees for which so many homeowners long take a great deal of time to grow. Those stately massive oaks that line the oldest streets of a city have been in place for decades and may still be growing. A new homeowner who is trying to produce a great landscape may finish paying his or her mortgage long before many varieties of trees will reach the roof of a home. Luckily, there is a solution to the slow growth problem. Landscapers can take advantage of fast growing trees. These rapid growers can provide all of the advantages associated with incorporating trees into a landscaping plan without subjecting property owners to an extended wait some varieties of fast growing trees can reach impressive heights of up to ten feet within as little as a year! The fastest growing tree is the Royal Empress. With very little care, a Royal Empress can reach lofty heights within a single year and can grow over twenty feet in height within three years. They also have a root structure that tends to extend downward, making them less of a potential problem in terms of disrupting underground piping or foundations. Their oversized leaves provide a great deal of shade. Other fast growing trees are the American Sycamore and different varieties of Hybrid Poplars. There are also many different kinds of evergreen trees that are notorious for their rapid growth. Nurseries, responding to the desires of landscapers, are also working to perfect other strains of fast-growing trees, insuring additional options for future developers and homeowners. You do not have to wait decades to reap the numerous advantages of using trees in your landscaping. Fast growing trees provide a wonderful way of capturing those benefits without requiring a significant wait. If you are in the process of planning a landscape and have been disappointed by your inability to effectively utilize trees within a reasonable amount of time, you may want to take a long hard look at some of the amazing fast growing trees currently available.

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Gardening Tips
Gardening is a fun and relaxing hobby. Some gardens are for growing beautiful flowers while others are to grow vegetables. Regardless of the type of garden you have, there are some general guidelines to help ensure your garden produces the best results. Once you have decided what type of garden you want to have, do some research to find out what types of flowers and vegetables grow well in your region. Some thrive in wet environments while others need plenty of sunlight to grow. Once of the best secrets to gardening success is knowing when to plant the items. You can find this information on the internet or on the packages of seeds and bulbs for various flowers and vegetables. Properly tilling the soil prior to planting anything in it will make the likelihood of your garden growing very promising. Take the time to remove all the rocks and debris. Follow the directions for the particular item you are planting regarding how deep to plant them and how far apart. Use a good supplement with nutrients for the soil as well. Generally, the fall is the best time to plant. The weather is often cooler so you wont feel so drained by the heat. You can also find excellent sales on plants and seeds. You will need to water less because of the moisture in the area this time of year. Your plants will have plenty of time to grow over the winter. Pests can damage your garden dreams. Insects, mice, and rabbits enjoy eating flowers and vegetables found in gardens. To prevent them from bothering yours, consider adding small plastic rings around the area of the plant as it grows above ground. Most pesticides contain harsh chemicals, so avoid using them unless you have no other choice. Pesticides can damage birds and your crops. Creating a barrier with netting can help eliminate pests getting into your garden. It is important to give your garden the attention it needs. Proper watering, weeding, and pruning will not only make your garden look nice, it will help it to thrive. Removing dead leaves and scattered leaves that have fallen in your garden will reduce slugs. To ensure your garden survives the winter, prepare your plants prior to the first frost. You can cover each plant with plastic. Most of the damage during the winter occurs because the ground freezes and the roots cant absorb water. You can dig around the roots after a freeze to help the water seep in. Gardening can be a fun and rewarding way to spend your time. Following basic gardening tips will help ensure your hard work isnt in vein. You will be able to enjoy the beauty of the flowers you planted or enjoy the wonderful taste of the vegetables you grew in your garden.
Landscape Design Your Garden To Complete Your Home

Most people do not give the landscape design of their garden as much thought as the interior design of their home. Why? Dont you think that if you have taken the time to coordinate the dcor of your house to look good to your visitors and relatives, that doing the same for your garden or backyard is just as important? Your home is more that just the house you live in. Your home includes your garden and if you landscape design your garden, you not only add value, but improve the environment you and your family live in. And dont forget the jealous neighbors!! First impressions count, or so they say, and the first part of your home that your visitors see is your garden. Good landscape design can make a lasting impression. The freedom of expression your garden offers allows you to put your own creative ideas into practice for the whole neighborhood to enjoy. Nothing looks as attractive as a beautifully designed and maintained garden, and it is so easy to make changes to the living canvas of your own garden. AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD
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You can adjust to the seasons how often have you seen blooming summer gardens looking dreary and sad in winter? Dont let your garden look sad. Keep it happy! There are so many possibilities in landscape design that you can let your imagination run riot. You can choose your own colors; have trellises, hedges and shrubbery. Water features are extremely popular with an unlimited range of designs, and even the smallest of gardens can now be made to look extremely attractive with a small pool, fountain or even a river with its continually recycling water. A small water run of 18 feet into a small 4 foot pool looks so attractive and attracts the wildlife you love to see in your garden. All it takes is some piping, a bit of plastic sheeting and an inexpensive water pump! Just imagine it all for a few dollars and a weekend of work! Stick a few plants round it and you will be the envy of the neighborhood. You can achieve what you want with your own garden or backyard with even just a little landscaping. You can turn it into what you want it to be. In fact stop thinking backyard and think garden. There is a world of difference. Landscape design can turn a garden from a weed ridden junkyard to a beautiful dining area, a place to relax and unwind with the sounds of nature around you, a pool to lounge by or a source of sweet-smelling fresh flowers just ready to cut for that fantastic table feature you have just designed for your dinner party. Landscape design will transform your house and garden to a home you love and are proud of indoors and out. There are many landscape design companies who will do the physical work, leaving you to put the final touches into practice, and its much more satisfying if you have designed the whole garden yourself. Others will do the complete job for you, transferring your own landscape design into reality. So dont have your house looking beautiful but ignore your garden. Your home is more than just the house you live in. Good landscape design will make help it to look beautiful outside, as well as inside. Be your own landscape designer, then either do it yourself or have it done for you. When anyone looks at your garden in admiration and asks who designed this garden you can answer I DID!
Common Poisonous Plants Found In Many Homes And Gardens

Plants are an important part of the lives of many but there are risks to home and hearth involved in the owning of certain plants. Throughout the ages plants have been used for potions, cures, poultices, and yes, even poisons. For this reason it should come as no great shock that some of the very plants we keep in our homes may actually pose a threat to ourselves, our children, or our pets if not properly tended. These plants are often referred to as poisonous plants and the reactions may come in the form of anything from mild nausea to death. Of course, these symptoms can seem rather mild when compared with other common poisonous plants. Getting into the Christmas spirit you may find that there are some myths and some realities surrounding what are and are not poisonous plants. First of all, mistletoe is poisonous and eating the berries can lead to death. This is not one plant you want to allow your children easy access to. Perhaps this is why mistletoe is traditionally hung overhead. You should also take care that your pets do not have access either. Poinsettias on the other hand have been rumored to be poisonous when they are in fact notthough I do not suggest eating this particular plant unless youd like an upset stomach. The rumors surrounding poinsettias may have begun as the result of the fact that many plants in the genus Euphorbia to which poinsettias belong are poisonous.
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Lilies are a very common houseplant that is very poisonous to cats. Even in small doses this plant can lead to serious kidney damage. Tulip bulbs are another popular plant that is very dangerous to children and animals alike. Ingesting the bulb from tulips has been the culprit in poisonings of dogs and humans alike. Some are even so sensitive to the toxins in tulips that they should avoid touching tulips all together. Azaleas are yet another of the many common poisonous plants that you should be aware of. The normal side effects of exposure is some degree of tummy troubles though there have been cases of more serious side effects such as comas or even death. Caution should always be exercised when exposing children and animal to pets. The truth of the matter is that even non-toxic plants can lead to serious tummy troubles if eaten by curious little mouths or rashes and allergic reactions when touched by those same tender hands. The plants mentioned above are a small sampling of some of the common poisonous plants you may find in or around your home and you really should take care to check on all of your plants if you have any doubt at all about whether or not you should expose them to your children or pets. You do not have to rid your home of plants in order to maintain safety just take the proper precautions to keep potentially harmful plants out of reach whenever possible.
What Is The Best Type of Grass Seed?

For those looking for the best type of grass seed for their lawns, the answer is never as simple as the question. It seems that there is a grass to suit many needs but not yet, at least not that Im aware of, one that will suit all needs. There are many mitigating factors when it comes to grass and they all need to be considered when selecting grass seed for your lawn. Another thing to consider is that some lawns will need more than one type of grass seed in order to live up to its maximum potential. I know our lawn certainly has areas of dense shade as well as areas that realize the full brunt of the suns potential. I am sure we are not alone in this situation. There are other things you should consider when seeding for grass as well. Those things are the current seasons and the type of seed you will be using. The best time to plant warm season grass is actually in the spring while the best time to plant cool season grass is in the fall. These are the ideal time for planting these grasses although anytime that extreme heat or other extreme weather conditions arent a factor would be okay just not optimal. Any old grass will not do when it comes to seeding your lawn for grass. You need to pay attention to areas of light and shade, the type of soil you have, and the general and seasonal weather conditions in your climate. You may find that you will need several different types of grasses or even mixtures of grasses in order to have the nice, lush, and most importantly green lawn for which you are hoping. You should pay attention to the condition of your soil before planting in order to determine if you will need to use fertilizers in order to properly prepare your lawn for fertilization. It is often best to plan for fertilizing and planting at different times. You should make sure that you fertilize whenever possible ahead of planting as this will mean that the soil is ready to nurture your new seedling grass. In the cooler, humid climates of the northeastern United States Kentucky bluegrass is often the grass of choice. This grass is quite lovely and recent advances have made it much more resistant to bugs, disease, heat, and drought. Perennial Ryegrass is a great example of versatility when it comes to grass. This grass germinates rather quickly, which assists in the prevention of soil erosion while the grass is taking root. Fescues are very drought tolerant, which makes them a very popular choice in the northwestern U. S. These grasses are often used as part of mixtures rather than seeded alone.
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Wherever you live there is a seed that will work wonders for your lawn. If you are looking for the best type of grass seed for your lawn you should take several soil samples at different locations in your yard and test the soil in each area. I then recommend taking your results along with you when you select your grass and choose according to what will work best with your climate and your soil conditions.
What is the Best Brand of Lawn Fertilizer?

When it comes to lawn fertilizers there are many options available on todays market. With so many options it is often quite difficult to know which really is the best brand of lawn fertilizer. Unfortunately, there really is no simple answer to that question as the best brand for your lawn and garden needs may not necessarily be the best brand for all lawn and garden needs. There are many factors that effect what kind of nourishment and nutrients your soil will need for particular landscaping projects. Each of these factors will greatly affect which particular type or brand of lawn fertilizer will best suit your needs. For most lawns, nitrogen will be the most important nutrient and should be carefully considered when narrowing down your fertilizing prospects. Other important things that fertilizers add to your soil include phosphorous and potassium. One thing you should keep in mind is that fertilizer serves to enrich the soil and in some cases is a lengthy process that will take several growing seasons in order to properly accomplish. In this manner fertilizing a lawn that has been sadly depleted of good nutrient-rich soil is a marathon rather than a race. For general lawn care you should look for a lawn fertilizer that is suitable for multi purpose types of lawn care duties. There are specialty fertilizers that are available and perhaps once youve achieved a more balanced and nutrient rich lawn you can concentrate on some of the more specific fertilizers but these are only necessary if you plan to do serious landscaping in the coming growing season. You will see many different types of fertilizers, even among the all purpose options and may have a little difficulty selecting the best for your lawn. A good rule of thumb for those who are just beginning to repair or restore their lawn is to begin with a slow release granular type of fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen. The thing to remember is that nitrogen in high dosages can damage your lawn even though you need nitrogen in order to enrich the soil. This is one of the reasons that slow release nitrogen fertilizers are so highly recommended. These types of fertilizers actually minimize the risk of damaging your lawn. Another way you can minimize the risk of damage is by closely following the instructions on the labeling. A good rule of thumb is one pound for every thousand square feet. When trying to decide which is the best brand of lawn fertilizer for your lawn be sure to discuss with the experts at your local lawn and garden center what the long and short-term goals for your lawn are. Having an idea of what you plan to do immediately and what you hope to do in the future can seriously help narrow down a much better plan of action for all your fertilization and soil restoration needs. Having a plan from the very beginning is always the best course of action when it comes to landscaping or lawn and garden design.
Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas

If youre like most people today, you have an extremely busy, hectic schedule. You want to have a beautiful yard, but just dont have the time to devote the maintenance and upkeep that is required to
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keep your landscaping in that majestic condition. It never fails, something always comes up or you are just too exhausted to even think about it much less do it. But that doesnt mean you cant still lust for that beautifully landscaped manicured yard. There are things that can be done to keep your landscaped yard up to the desired look that you have envisioned without much hard work entailed. For starters, you could plant flowering shrubs or coniferous shrubs. You get the desired look and beauty with these. The pros of planting shrubs are that you do not have to water them all the time; the aromas they emit can be quite pleasant. The types of shrubs and the colors you have to choose from are totally astonishing. It is recommended that you do occasional pruning and fertilization, and that would be pretty much it. There are literally hundreds upon hundreds of low maintenance shrubs you can choose from. Do you enjoy beautiful flowerbeds? You could implement ground cover plants that would cut down on weed development, thus saving you time on having to pull weeds. You could also use any of the wood chips, barks and colored stones to fill in the exposed areas to cut down on weed production. With all the new tall grasses that are on the market today, you could also choose several of them to add to your landscaping. If you would like to have a lot of flowers growing in your yard, you might want to consider planting plants that are perennials. That means they would come back every year. This would save you from having to go out and shop for new flowers every spring and then take the time to prepare the soil which would include fertilizing, tilling and what ever else would be required for the particular plants that would be incorporated into your scheme. Some plants that you may want to incorporate in your landscaping project could require daily tending to, but there are steps you can take to save you time there also. You could purchase a self watering, watering system that would alleviate you from having to do that chore on a daily basis. You can also decorate used soda or water bottles and use them for watering your plants also. All you would have to do is pretty them up a little bit, as to not be an eye sore to the viewer. You would then have to punch holes in the bottoms of the bottles so the water can exit at a slow drip. You would then either set them next to ground plants or if you have a lot of planted containers you would set them in the container. With utilizing this type of watering system you would only have to check the bottles to see if they are low on water and if they are you would of course just fill them up. This type of watering system is extremely cost effective if finances are a concern of yours. Hopefully I have been helpful in trying to give you some ideas on ways to lighten the burden of labor of having beautifully landscaped yard. There are so many tips and short cuts that you can find with just a little research on the internet that you should have no problems finding more ideas on low maintenance landscape ideas. People are always coming up with new and creative ideas all the time. So keep looking for help and that should make your landscaping experience just that much nicer and give you more time to enjoy it.
How to Increase Curb Appeal of your Home without Breaking Budget

For those who are faced with the daunting task of selling their homes Im sure the term curb appeal has come up when discussing your home with realtors. The good news is that there are many things you can do to increase curb appeal without breaking the budget. The important thing to remember when budgeting repairs and such is that the curb appeal of your home is the deciding factor in whether or not interested parties will want to step inside. In other words, the exterior of your home is
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the first impression that buyers have in many cases and they will drive on to the next house on the list if the exterior is not appealing. Believe it or not, even small changes can do a lot to increase the curb appeal of your home. Below you will find several small things that you can do without spending a lot of money that will make your house much more appealing to buyers. 1. Clean your gutters. Believe it or not this is one thing that is often neglected and yet can have a serious impact on a potential buyers opinion of your home. If you have gutters in serious need of cleaning and possibly need of minor repairs, the first thing the buyer sees is something he or she would have to fix. 2. Pressure wash your walkways and driveway as well as dirty siding and any decks you may have as well. 3. Clean your windows. Your eyes are the windows to your soul and the windows of your home show the heart beating within. It makes a huge impression on buyers and makes them think youve taken great care of your home. 4. Trim trees and bushes that are close to your home. This is yet another task that will simply leave your home looking well tended and cared for. The small things often make the biggest impressions. 5. Mow your lawn. Even if it is the dead of winter having a nicely mowed lawn looks good to potential buyers. 6. Rake your leaves. This really is a big deal. A well-raked yard simply looks better than a yard full of leaves. You not only need to rake the leaves you also need to bag them up and get rid of them. 7. Make sure there is no litter and that all tools and equipment are put away. You do not want to go to all the effort of keeping your yard and landscaping nice and tidy only to loose points with potential buyers by not properly stowing the tools that were required for the job. Its also a good idea to install some solar powered lighting in your yard to make your home look welcoming and inviting to those driving by at night as well. You need some lighting in the yard so that they can see the home at night but you do not want to light up the entire neighborhood in the process. These are just a few very inexpensive tasks you can do that will help you increase curb appeal of your home for potential buyers.
AVOIDING COMMON LANDSCAPING MISTAKES

We live in a do-it-yourself culture. The upside to that reality is that many of us get tremendous opportunities to try our hands and new skills and to learn interesting things while saving money. The downside is that we sometimes trade expertise and quality for that experience and cost-effectiveness. Landscaping is a perfect example of this. Everyone wants to take care of the job without calling the professionals, but their lack of expertise can create problems. Professional landscapers know the business inside and out. They understand composition, they know which plants will compliment others. They understand the soil, the elements and what things will actually compliment the design of your home. You might think you have a great eye and you may be a quick study. However, the average do-it-yourselfer is not an expert landscaper. As such, several common mistakes are repeated over and over again across the nations lawns. Lets look at four common landscaping mistakes. By understanding the errors of others, you might be able to avoid doing the same things! AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD
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RULING WITH A RULER--ERRORS OF LINEARITY Many self-styled landscapers approach their projects as if the world functioned exclusively along the rigid lines of grid. The natural world, however, isnt flat or square. Its bumpy and curvy. It undulates and sways. Professionals understand that and they try to work within natural lines and to use the imperfections of nature to heighten aesthetic appeal. Amateurs, on the other hand, often have a preoccupation with trying to make everything square and straight. When everything is straightened, it tends to create an uninviting and severe atmosphere. Play with nature as much as you play against it. NEGLECTING THE FRONT--FORGETTING TO PUT YOUR FACE ON Most of us prefer some degree of privacy. Thus, we tend to spend the bulk of our time in our back yards instead of in front of the house. As a result of that preference, we also tend to have much larger areas with which to work behind our house. Thus, it does make sense that most landscaping work will occur in the back. However, too many amateurs focus on the back yard to the near-exclusion of the front. There is no harm in that, per se, but it does represent a wasted opportunity to improve the value and attractiveness of your home. Make sure you plot a course of landscaping success in the front yard, too. LIVING IN THE MOMENT--IGNORING FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS Those shrubs you plan on planting right under the bay window will look great this year. And the next. After that, though, you had better plan on a weekly trimming. You have three feet of clearance between ground and window, and those cute little shrubs will grow ten feet high if not held in check. You get the idea, right? Thats just an example of a common problem experienced by do-it-yourself landscapers. They arent forward thinking enough and that can cause problems. You need to understand your plants, how they will look now and how they will grow in the future. That kind of knowledge can help you create better look and can save you tons of work in the end. ITS YOUR LAWN--NEGLECTING THE REST OF THE FAMILY (AND THE WORLD) A common amateur error is to design a landscaping plan without taking the usage patterns and desires of other family members into consideration. That wonderful winding path to the garden might cut right across the kids favorite place to play ball. That five-foot retaining wall may create an attractive vista, but it may not be attractive to a potential buyer with three small children a few years from now. Consider what others will appreciate and dont assume your amateur vision is perfect. You can do your own landscaping. If you work hard enough you may even produce some professional results. Your odds of getting the job done right will improve considerably if you learn to avoid some of the common errors of do-it-yourselfers.
Planting Evergreens Made Easy

Evergreens are a type of tree that many of us love to have in our lawns. They provide valuable shade during the summer months and a festive taste of the holidays during the winter. They are also nice to have year round for many who may enjoy watching the leaves change colors in the fall but enjoy that nice touch of green year round. If you are considering adding some evergreen trees or shrubs to your landscaping I hope youll seriously consider them once you find out how easy planting evergreen trees really is, even for the novice gardener.
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My personal favorite evergreen is the Blue Spruce. This tree is lovely year round but particularly so when it is covered in a light dusting of snow. Perhaps it is my love of the holidays and the images of Christmas that I can have with me throughout the year but I wouldnt trade my Blue Spruce for all the oaks in my back yard. The good news is that planting an evergreen such as this isnt all too difficult a task if the time ever comes when I need to replace this particular tree. The first step whenever you are planting evergreens or anything that requires digging is to call your utility company to make sure that there are no underground lines that would be at risk or place you at risk in the process of digging. Once that is taken care of and you are all clear to dig in you chosen location you should dig a hole that is at leave twice as wide as the container holding your evergreen. You should also be sure that you strip the sod away from the hole in order to provide plenty of room for mulching. If the tree is larger it is quite likely that cutting away the container from the root ball will be the best possible option as lifting the tree from the container may lead to damaging the branches. When you actually plant the tree into the hole you should be certain that you are not only providing adequate nutrients in the soil but also that you are providing plenty of water in the process. You should use the opportunity to create a reservoir for water when mulching. Early autumn is an ideal time of year in which to plant evergreen trees. You need to be sure that you are planting early enough that the tree has adequate time to take root a bit before the first big freeze tests its strength and resolve. If you live in a cooler climate you should plant the roots a little bit deeper in order to provide extra insulation from the freezing surface. You should also take great care to make sure you keep your evergreen properly watered throughout the fall. This will help prevent the drying out of needles in the winter months to which other trees fall victim. The most important thing to remember when planting evergreens is that in time this tree will be the stuff that wonderful memories are made of for both you and your family.
Water Gardening
Water gardening involves using fountains, waterfalls, and ponds to create wonderful effects in your garden area. While water gardening requires continuous maintenance, it is well worth the hard work you put into it. Of the three, ponds are the most time consuming. Water gardening has evolved as a very popular landscaping staple. People of all ages enjoy the sound of the water flowing. It can be calming and relaxing. When considering participating in water gardening, choosing the right location for the equipment is essential. You will want to choose an area that gets plenty of direct sunlight. It is also a good idea to steer clear of trees. This is because you will find yourself continually having to remove leaves and other debris from the water. You can add water gardening elements to most any size of landscaping area. Obviously, the small area you have to work with the smaller pond, fountain, or waterfall you will want to create. To further enhance the water gardening scene, consider investing in a lighting system for after dark. Ponds are the most difficult to maintain of the water gardening options, yet they offer the best features. It is important to choose plants that do well in this type of environment as well as grow in your region. Water lilies add a very rustic look to any garden pond. Adding fish to your garden pond is easy, yet you must keep the water clean and free from bacteria. It is possible to create water gardening yourself. Many do it yourself kits are easy to install and can be purchased at most home improvement stores. You may choose to have a landscaper install the various equipment for you.
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Water gardening offers beauty and tranquility to your garden. With so many styles and sizes to choose from, the possibilities are unbelievable. Make sure you have the time to dedicate to the type of water gardening you choose. Without proper maintenance, the equipment wont work well.
How To Plant A Weeping Cherry Tree

Youve probably heard to the beautiful cherry trees in Washington DC. I have never been there myself, but have always heard how beautiful it is when the cherry trees are blossoming. After see the spectacular pictures of these trees its a wonder more people dont have these trees implemented into their landscaping plans. So maybe you have thought of adding a weeping cherry tree or two in your landscaping plan. Although these are gorgeous trees, there is some very important information you should know. Generally the weeping cherry does better in warmer climates. The recommended planting zone is set for zones 4-8. You might be able to get away with zone 3, but you will have to take extra precautions for the survival of your weeping willow. It is also possible to have you weeping willow in colder climates, but that would require that it be planted in a container and be brought indoors in winter time. As with any tree, when you dig the hole for planting, the hole size should be slightly larger than the container. If you are lucky, you can find a permeable container that naturally breaks down in time. When planting you want to disturb the roots as little as possible. After you have dug you hole it is always a good idea to layer the bottom with a fertilizer. You can ask your local garden center what fertilizer would be best for you tree. You also need to make sure that the roots are not standing in a water logged hole. If the spot you picked it more on the moist side, you can always add some sand or gravel to the bottom of the hole for better drainage when watering. This tree requires that it be watered frequently. Because this tree is more susceptible to disease and fungus, extra care must be taken. Another important piece of information is that technically this tree is grafted from another tree. What happens is a bud is taken from a cherry tree and is grafted to a compatible tree called the stock root tree. A slit is cut into the stock root tree and the bud is inserted into it. After a short time the bud starts to grow. After the bud gets to a certain size it is cut from the root stock and ready for the market. The downfall of this procedure is that your weeping cherry tree will grow branches from the root stock. You will easily be able to notice which branches these are as they grow straight up from the tree versus the actual willow branches grow down in the hanging position. The branches from the root stock must be pruned. If allowed to grow, they will ruin the whole visual effect of the tree. If done properly and right away, there will be very little damage if any to your tree. If let go for too long and you got to trim the straight branches you will cause unsightly scaring to your tree. When planting or transplanting your tree, the earlier in the growing season you do it the better. This gives the tree time to re-root itself. If planting is done to late in the season, you stand a good chance that your tree will not survive the winter. So if you decide to transplant and it is later in the year you just might be better off waiting until spring. You will also want to remember that this tree will end up with a circumference of anywhere between 20 40 feet. So plan accordingly. It is also recommended that a layer of mulch be added to the ground, matching the tree circumference. This helps with maintaining the moisture that is much needed by this wonderful tree.
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So if you are contemplating on planting a weeping cherry tree, these are some of the requirements of owning one. They might be a little more high maintenance tree, but in the spring it will be all worth while. Since this tree has not seen many yards you will probably have your friends and neighbors asking about your new addition to your landscaping.
General Tips For Growing Orchids

The best tips anyone can provide when it comes to growing orchids is to choose wisely the orchids you will be growing according to the area in which you live. These beautiful flowers are not quite as delicate as you may have been led to believe. They do however have very specific environments in which they will flourish and thrive. Despite their seeming delicateness, orchids are one of the most versatile flowers you might come across. Orchids are definitely not plants that you simply leave to the elements while many orchids do manage in nature without human intervention. The truth of the matter is that most orchids require a significant amount of care and tending. Of course those who are truly passionate about their orchids are more than willing to take all the time they need in order to learn the best possible way in which to care for these beautiful blooms. While there are a few things that are common to most orchid varieties, there is no one size fits all hard and fast rule for properly growing orchids. These plants are unique and exotic and each one will require a little something different when it comes to the best possible growing environment and conditions. Do a little research before you select your plant and choose one that will best suit your living conditions and the level of care you feel you can properly commit to your orchids. Orchids like humidity and thrive in these sorts of conditions. Hot houses are a great place for orchids to thrive. One great way to keep them humid is by placing them on a saucer of pebbles that are kept moist as much of the time as possible. Contrary to popular opinion it is actually not a good idea to mist the orchid petals, as this will diminish the life of the bloom. Pete moss, fir bark, volcanic rock, osmunda fiber, and charcoal are great for growing orchids but should be changed often for maximum effectiveness as a growing media. Orchid blooms are simply stunning and can last for quite some time. It is important when cutting the orchids once the bloom has fallen off that you cut at bottom of the leaves rather than the elbows. This keeps the blooms big and lovely. Another great tip to keep in mind when growing orchids is that in addition to warmth and moisture, orchids love sunlight whenever they can get it. Different varieties of orchid prefer different types of sunlight and you should do a little research about the variety you choose in order to provide the best possible living and growing conditions for your floral investment. These plants are after all a significant investment not only in money but also in time and care. The best tip when it comes to growing orchids is to take the time to learn about the specific variety you are planning to grow. There are more than 30,000 species of orchids not including all the hybrids that are available. Each species will have a few idiosyncrasies of its very own and you will need to learn the likes and dislikes of your chosen variety and cater to its every whim for some time in order to receive the maximum performance and beauty from your plant.

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The Greatness Of Growing Your OWn Herbs

Believe it or not, growing your own herbs is not only a great way to bring a little green into your kitchen but also a great way to add wonderful flavors to your food year round. Most of us will agree that herbs add great value and flavor to our food. Many of us have favorite herbs that we use often and in every day cooking. Some of us rely more heavily on herbs than others. If you use herbs frequently while cooking, a small herb garden is a great investment for your home. Unfortunately they generally come at great expense. Herbs are expensive to purchase in stores so growing your own is not only a fantastic way to lower your grocery expenses over time. In fact, taking a look through your kitchen cabinets and spice racks are a great way of deciding which herbs will be best for you to grow. Choose herbs for your garden that you use most frequently if this is something that have any uncertainty about at all. If you are still at a loss or just beginning to add herbs to your kitchen inventory some great herbs to start your garden with include: rosemary, basil, sage, mint, parsley, and dill. There are others of course and you really should choose herbs that you are interested in cooking with. Dont waste your time and effort on herbs that you will not use instead focus your care on herbs that will be great additions to your home and office. You have the world (or at least your home, yard, or garden) from which to choose a location for your herb garden. I find that kitchen windowsills or window boxes are great places for growing herbs. Others grow them outside their homes in fertile soil that has excellent drainage. The water cannot remain saturated if you want your herb garden to grow properly. A great way to achieve proper drainage is to layer the bottom of your growing area with a layer of gravel. You should also note that herbs grow best from seeds rather than transported plants. In addition to this, you should learn a little about the herb and their individual growth tendencies before planting. Some tend to overtake gardens and should be potted rather than planted in open soil. You should also provide individual pots for some of these plants rather than planting them all together in a window box. It will be tempting to want to pluck the leaves from your plant as soon as they make their appearance. This is not the wisest course of action. You should really allow your plant plenty of time (several months in fact) to establish before enjoying its bounty. You will be glad in time that you waited and doing so will allow you to deplete the supply of herbs you have on hand. Growing your own herbs is not only delicious and valuable it is also a great way to get your hands into the good earth and quite therapeutic.
A Rock Garden Is Easy To Build

Although a rock garden is frequently built in garden areas specifically chosen for the purpose, it can also be constructed on any area of ground you have no other use for. The only requirement is good drainage since rock and mountain-growing plants do not grow well in water-bound soil. The best base for a rock garden is a sloping area whereby surface water can easily run off. It is not the presence of water that can be a problem, but its inability to run off. In fact many excellent rock gardens are associated with natural and artificial streams, since running water is the natural habitat of many of the plants used to populate rock gardens.

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The main soil areas should be gritty rather than well composted to simulate the natural environment of the plants, though the plants themselves should initially be bedded in rich soil to help them establish. A rock garden is frequently called an Alpine garden, and Alpine conditions are associated with excellent drainage through loose gritty soil. A rock garden is not a currant bun, constructed by sticking rocks and stones into a mound of earth. The area chosen should be excavated, then the bottom perimeter of the rock garden lined with stones. Then one or two large rocks should be laid which will protrude above the surface when the garden has been completed. These are the main rocks, around which other rocks and stones can be laid. The spaces between all of these rocks should be filled with increasingly smaller stones and finally with gritty easily drained soil. Drainage is critical for a successful rock garden. Mixing sand with topsoil is a good way to promote drainage. The best stone to use to construct a rock garden is limestone, though granite and any local stone will probably suffice. Once the garden has been set up, make pockets among the rocks and stones and fill with good composted soil in which to place the plants. You can mix the soil with washed sand to remove any residual salt. Do not sow seed, but purchase bedding plants such as heathers and other ericaceous plants which do very well in rock gardens, and also Alpine plants. Perennials are best, though some annuals can be used. Alyssum, delosperma, geraniums and verbena all do well in rock gardens, with some gypsophilia to break it up. Your local garden center will able to help you with the best plants for your area. The main secret behind a good successful rock garden is to ensure that the rock foundation is built first, and then the drainage and the introduction of gritty soil, then the excavation of small pockets between the rocks for the plants which should be filled with rich compost, then finally the plants. What you must not do is to build a mound of earth, stick in some stones, then some plants. As stated earlier, gardeners call this a currant bun. Think Alpine. Think mountains, rocks, little soil and running streams. You can construct a running stream with some polythene, some 1 plastic piping and a water pump and dont forget the water. Lay the polythene ( any flexible plastic will do) between lots of rocks and stones with plants enjoying the running water, and lead it to a small pool: even a foot or so diameter will do, from which it can be pumped back to the top of the stream. Its easier than you think. You have the ideal basis for a rock garden. Providing you base it on a bed of rocks and stones, and not earth.
What Is The Best Type of Grass Seed?

For those looking for the best type of grass seed for their lawns, the answer is never as simple as the question. It seems that there is a grass to suit many needs but not yet, at least not that Im aware of, one that will suit all needs. There are many mitigating factors when it comes to grass and they all need to be considered when selecting grass seed for your lawn. Another thing to consider is that some lawns will need more than one type of grass seed in order to live up to its maximum potential. I know our lawn certainly has areas of dense shade as well as areas that realize the full brunt of the suns potential. I am sure we are not alone in this situation.

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There are other things you should consider when seeding for grass as well. Those things are the current seasons and the type of seed you will be using. The best time to plant warm season grass is actually in the spring while the best time to plant cool season grass is in the fall. These are the ideal time for planting these grasses although anytime that extreme heat or other extreme weather conditions arent a factor would be okay just not optimal. Any old grass will not do when it comes to seeding your lawn for grass. You need to pay attention to areas of light and shade, the type of soil you have, and the general and seasonal weather conditions in your climate. You may find that you will need several different types of grasses or even mixtures of grasses in order to have the nice, lush, and most importantly green lawn for which you are hoping. You should pay attention to the condition of your soil before planting in order to determine if you will need to use fertilizers in order to properly prepare your lawn for fertilization. It is often best to plan for fertilizing and planting at different times. You should make sure that you fertilize whenever possible ahead of planting as this will mean that the soil is ready to nurture your new seedling grass. In the cooler, humid climates of the northeastern United States Kentucky bluegrass is often the grass of choice. This grass is quite lovely and recent advances have made it much more resistant to bugs, disease, heat, and drought. Perennial Ryegrass is a great example of versatility when it comes to grass. This grass germinates rather quickly, which assists in the prevention of soil erosion while the grass is taking root. Fescues are very drought tolerant, which makes them a very popular choice in the northwestern U. S. These grasses are often used as part of mixtures rather than seeded alone. Wherever you live there is a seed that will work wonders for your lawn. If you are looking for the best type of grass seed for your lawn you should take several soil samples at different locations in your yard and test the soil in each area. I then recommend taking your results along with you when you select your grass and choose according to what will work best with your climate and your soil conditions.
A Few Methods For Adding Color To Your Landscaping

If you are looking for great ways of adding color to your landscaping then look no further than your local lawn and garden center. You should be able to find many wonderful flowers to add that special little pop of color no matter what your landscaping situation. The first step you need to take however is actually testing the soil in the areas around your home and garden in which you plan to plant. By doing this you will know if you need to make plans to add nutrients and minerals to enrich your soil or seek alternatives such as well placed and carefully selected raised beds or planters as homes for your new plants and flowers. It always helps if you have a plan in mind when landscaping. This will enable you to group appropriate groups of plants and flowers together for maximum efficiency within your landscaping and minimal waste of precious natural resources and labor. A good plan is something that is often overlooked and under appreciated but very important in the grand scheme of things. Talk with landscaping or gardening experts to find out the best potential layout for your landscaping and placement of your plants and flowers. I hope this article will serve as a great source of help when it comes to adding color to your landscaping. For early spring Im such a sucker for tulips and the many brightly colored bulb flowers that sprout up for a short while each season. These flowers are beautiful to watch and bring a little bit of pizzazz to even the most mundane landscaping endeavor.
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Another thing you can do is plant small trees that have a little touch of color. Some prefer flowering trees such as crepe myrtle, cherry trees, Japanese dogwood trees, or magnolia trees in order to have a little shade and some color at different times throughout the year. These trees generally make a lovely addition to landscaping and bring some nice colors with them as well. A Japanese red maple tree is also a great addition to your landscaping. This may not be a flowering tree but it does bring color to your landscaping in a rather unique way. Another often neglected way of adding color to your landscaping is by planting trees and shrubs in a manner that invites fine feathered friends to enjoy your private oasis from the world as well. Believe it or not this can add a lot of color not only by the flowering shrubs and bushes you plant but also the visits from your feathered friends. You may also consider adding a Koi pond, birdbath, or fountain of some sort in addition to some nice bird feeders to complete the bird friendly atmosphere. There are so many ways that you can bring color to your landscaping. Some of them are a simple as adding brightly colored wind or son catchers and others by adding flowers and trees that bring color of their own throughout the year. You are only limited by your own imagination when it comes to this task and should always work to continue adding value and enjoyment to your landscaping.
The Best Time of The Year To Re-Seed Your Lawn

Lawn, a major part of the American tradition. If you look into the history of lawns, you will see that the traditional lawn has not been around that long. America has really started to take a real pride in maintaining a beautifully landscaped yard. If you really want to put a perspective on landscaping, you could consider you lawn as the back drop or canvas of your property. Everything stems from your lawn. You house is an extension of your lawn. Your trees, shrubs, bushes and flowers are all extensions too. Now with that in mind, you must have a good back round to bring out all the embellishments that have been added to your back round. Walk around your yard an really look at your lawn. Are there some dead spots, thin spots, mis-colored spots? If you do notice any of these types of issues you should go through the process of elimination to find out if you lawn is infected with some kind of insect, worms or fungus. You might also want to have your soil tested to make sure all the proper mineral contents are within the best recommended specifications. This can save you a lot of time in the long run if one of the above is the issue. You can re-seed the bad spots but they will just die off again, so to save a lot of hassle it is recommended that you do a thorough investigation of the perceived problem. Some of the determining factors that will help you in determining if your lawn needs a tune-up are: Approximately 40% to 50% of you lawn is dead. When walking across the lawn if feels soft and spongy. Is your lawn getting taken over by weeds?

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There are many determining factors, but these three are the major factors. Sometimes just making simple modifications to basic lawn care practices or improving site conditions is all you need to revive your lawn. So if you have determined that you lawn needs a little pick me up or a little bit more, the best time to re-seed is in late summer between August 15th to September 20th . The next best time would be in April or May. Late summer is the preferred time for the following reasons: The soil is warmer which is better for germination. There are fewer problems with weeds. The cooler season encourages grass growth. There is less chance of water evaporation as this process requires a lot of water.
If you are planning to do just some small patch repair (8 or less) it is recommended that you use 1 part seed with 4 parts of a natural organic fertilizer. This way you can accomplish two tasks at the same time. Try working up the soil just a little bit to give the lawn seed just a little more to adhere to. The seeds are very, very light and will blow away easily. You can also use straw or fines netting that would be available at your local home improvement store. After you have spread the grass seed another recommendation is pressing the seed into the ground, just a light pressing will do. You can use just any tool you can think of to press the seeds down. Then comes the hardest part. The daily watering and then getting down on your hands and knees looking for the little green sprouts. Depending on the type of grass you decided on planting, germination can take anywhere from 5-28 days. You should do your best to keep the soil moist at all times, this keeps the germination time to a minimal. When you have finished this tedious process, the payoff will be worth the work and effort. Remember this is the backdrop for everything on your property. You want it to look the best it can. Once all this is completed the lawn is ready for your enjoyment and the neighbors will be in awe.
Trees That Provide The Most Privacy

Most of us want it, some of us try to do it, and the majority of us do not have it. We are talking about privacy in our own homes and yards. Do you have that snoopy neighbor who is always peeking into your yard much less your windows? When you are trying to relax in your yard, do you have those neighbors who feel it is a requirement to come on over and talk for hours keeping you from your peace and quiet time you wanted just for yourself? We have all had a couple of those. And at the least opportune moments, a nuisance they can be. Well placed strategic natural barriers can give you what you crave the most! Peace and quiet can be had with these barriers. And so can your privacy from prying eyes. We have all looked around for ideas on how we could eliminate this situation, and one very common method that works well is to plant trees that can block their view and keep the noise levels down. Oh yes, we all know our neighbors have those good ears too! By choosing the right tree or shrub for your barrier, you can not only block out line of sight but create a nice sound barrier as well. One of the trees that have the best coverage is the Leyland Cypress Tree. This is one of the most popular trees used to create natural barriers because they grow 3-4 feet a year, it grows in a majestic pyramid shape, is very low maintenance, doesnt require much pruning, and is very adaptable to different soil conditions and climates. Leyland Cypress Trees also grow well in the sun or shade, and
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handle drought conditions very well. The other plus is that it is sturdy and thick enough to serve as a wind barrier. Leyland Cypress Tree can help keep your privacy all year round because there is continual foliage from this type of tree. Another common tree that is used, and is probably the easiest to maintain in our busy lives, is the Thuja Green Giant Evergreen. They require no trimming or pruning because they grow naturally in the cone shape everyone strives for. These trees grow 3-5 feet a year and they are one of the hardiest of the hardy. Thuja Green Giant Evergreen trees are also very hardy against disease, such as the fungus Cerosporidium sequoiae. These trees are also very resistant to insects. Not even the deer will bother them. One other very nice advantage to the Thuja Green Giant Evergreen is the aromatic scent they give off. The smell they constantly give off can keep the air in your yard smelling clean and fresh year around. Fairly new to the landscaping arena is the Dynamite Crape Myrtle. If you want to add color to your landscaping just plant some of these trees. This tree blooms all summer long, giving you the most majestic scarlet reds you have ever seen. This tree has typically been used in high-end homes or commercial developments. It is now available to the general public. The mature height is 20-30 feet with a 15 foot spread. Can grow in full to partial sun and is also very adaptable to soil and weather condition. This tree is just gorgeous and because of this, has won many awards for landscapers who have utilized this tree in their designs. Whether your needs are to create a noise barrier, a way to avoid those pesky neighbors or something to add beauty to your landscape, planting the right trees can help you create a landscape that is not only beautiful but sure to last for years to come.
Fabulously Relaxing Backyard Ideas

If you are like many Americans, your backyard is your oasis from the world. This is the spot you choose to spend your time off with your family and friends. It is a place where you will do a lot of your living. Unfortunately, many Americans also find their backyards to be places that arent comfortable and relaxing. Often by lack of knowledge or even lack of creativity we create formal spaces that really arent quite suitable for relaxing. If you are one of the many Americans seeking relaxing backyard ideas for your home and garden there are a few ideas below that may help you accomplish your goal. The first thing you must do however is identify what things you find relaxing. Just as many things in life, relaxation is not one size fits all. Bird Paradise The first suggestion is to create an area in which birds will come to rest. Many people find that bird watching is not only entertaining and enjoyable but also very relaxing as a hobby. You can do many things with your landscaping that will attract birds and other wildlife to your backyard. Some of those things include adding bird feeders that are kept well stocked to your backyard, landscaping with plants, bushes, trees, and shrubs that are attractive to birds, and providing a nice bird bath from which birds can drink and play. These types of backyards are very relaxing to bird lovers and can be enjoyed all seasons if you have a sunroom overlooking your backyard. Be sure to have a hammock where you can lie back and relax while waiting for those rare birds to make an appearance. Natural Oasis
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Mother Nature is a wise designer. If you take some of her greatest creations and features and have them in use on some scale in your back yard you should find a very organic and relaxing atmosphere from which to escape your day. I prefer using materials that are natural, particularly when landscaping or designing an outdoor living space. I find nature in and of itself to be quite relaxing. That doesnt mean that I do not find a cedar hot tub relaxing I most certainly do (I also find the cedar to be a great fit for my backyard), it simply means that using materials that are natural for a good portion of the features is a great way to blend them all together. Wood fences, stone tables or birdbaths, slate fountains, and wood furniture are also great backyard additions. There are many other fantastic and relaxing backyard ideas all around you. Just look around and see what you think will create the atmosphere you are hoping to achieve and remember that some people find a basketball goal as relaxing as you may find a nice quite place to read in the shade. By this I mean that there is no absolute right or wrong way to go about creating your relaxing backyard space. There is only the discovery or what is or is not right for you.
How To Control Weeds Without Harmful Chemicals

If you plan to really enjoy your outdoor living area, chances are that you would greatly prefer to enjoy that space without the hassle of weeds. For those of us who have children and pets however this has traditionally been an uphill battle. We prefer, for the most part, not to use chemicals that can be harmful to our loved oneshuman and animal alike. On the other hand, we would like to enjoy weed free living without spending all of our available free time in that pursuit. The good news is that todays gardener (novice and experienced alike) has choices that havent always been readily available in days long past for weed control without the chemicals that can cause so much damage. Options for home gardens do include hand weeding. If your garden is a labor of love then this practice is one you probably wont find too terribly burdensome. However, if your garden is something that you would prefer needed less maintenance while also not using chemicals then hand weeding is probably not the best of the available options. There are tools available that will make the hand weeding process a little (emphasis on the word little) less tedious but for the most part this is one of the lesser options when it comes to overall attractiveness. Another method of non-chemical weed control is fire. This works especially well for weeds growing through cracks in your walkways and is accomplished through the use of a propane torch, a small torch works plenty well in this instance. You only need to scorch the leaves of the weeds in order to achieve your desired results. This will not kill all weeds but is quite effective when it comes to ridding your lawn of newer weeds that tend to crop up all the time. There are other techniques of course to keep in your arsenal as you wage war on the weeds invading your garden space. While not all tools are created equally, there are some that are quite effective in their own rights. When combined with one another they pose a powerful weed prevention network that will create awesome results for your garden in the coming growing season. First of all, you should always use plenty of organic mulch. You may also want to seriously invest in landscaping fabric. This fabric allows your plants to receive plenty of air and water while preventing weeds from growing and receiving the sunlight they would need in order to do so. Its well worth the investment and the added time up front for the time it will save later. Of course there are other things you can do in order to control weeds without harmful chemicals. You should take the time to talk with experts in your area if none of the methods mentioned above are appealing to you. There are several formulas are treatments that can be recommended that will do the job as well as some fertilizers that have weed resistant agents. Study all your options then
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pick one or a combination of several that seems most appealing to you. Gardening is largely trial and error it doesnt have to be perfect in order to be, wellperfect.
How To Choose The Right Mulch For Your Flowerbed

For many amateur gardeners there is a huge question mark when things such as the proper mulch or fertilizer come to mind. How do you choose the right mulch for your flowerbed or any other landscaping project you may have in mind and why do you need mulch in the first place? To make things really simple, I will answer the second question first. We need mulch in order to assist in endeavors to conserve soil, use less water, protect your delicate landscaping during winter months, keep plant roots cooler during the summer months, eliminate or at the very least deter weeds, minimize erosion, and countless other things. In other words, you need mulch to help you garden grow. Mulches are also an excellent way to minimize the amount of lawn that you must actually mow believe it or not. By establishing a ring of mulch around trees, plants, and other landscaping features you are also establishing a barrier for weeds while protecting delicate roots from the damage that lawn more blades can cause to tree trunks and roots along the surface. When it comes to the task of choosing the right mulch for your flowerbed you should first consider why you want mulch in the first place. There are many reasons people opt to use mulch in flowerbeds and such. Not all of these reasons center around enriching the soil. Ask yourself what your specific mulching needs are and buy the mulch that will best suit your needs. If you are looking for mulch that is merely decorative thee are many from which to choose. Among those you will find mulches made of bark chips, wood chips, pine needles, and other materials that look quite lovely in a flower bed while adding very little to the soil by way of nutrients. You can also find decorative mulches in the form or rocks and gravel. These types of mulches are ideal in settings where water, or a lack thereof, is a real issue when it comes to landscaping. Mulches that are beneficial when it comes to gardening are more organic in nature and will decompose rather rapidly enriching the soil as this occurs. Choosing the right mulch for your flowerbed doesnt really take a degree in rocket science simply an accounting of your goals for your flowerbed and the overall look or atmosphere you are hoping to achieve. Keep in mind that all organic mulched will eventually decompose and be absorbed into the very ground they cover. This is a mark in the plus column, as they will add much needed nutrients to that soil as well. One thing to remember is that some materials decompose much more quickly than others. Those are the mulches that will be more immediately beneficial to you for the purpose of enriching your soil. Even those slow movers I mentioned above however have value and add a certain type of beauty to your landscaping project. Keep in mind also that sometimes, especially when it comes to mulch, less really is so much more. Mulch needs to be applied at the same depth across the board in order to be effective rather than in mounds as you see in some landscaping projects. Be sure, whatever you do, that you choose mulch based on the needs of your flowerbed and the specific flowers youll be growing rather than what your brother, cousin, or great uncle twice removed advises you (unless of course they happen to be gardening experts).

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How Often Should You Water Your Lawn?

When it comes to watering the lawn, the truth is that many of us arent really all that certain how often or even what time of day is really best for watering our lawns. Unfortunately there is no answer that will fit all lawns in all locations. The answer to this question is not only regionally different but also different according to the grass you choose and the overall condition of the soil that is providing nourishment (important nutrients and minerals) for your grass. You should keep in mind however that over watering your lawn is equally as damaging as not providing enough water. Adding too much water to your lawn will actually wash away important nutrients while removing oxygen from the soil. The removal of oxygen lends itself to shallow roots, which promotes the invasion of weeds. I think stressing the risks of too much water should be considered before watering your lawn or setting up automatic sprinkler systems. The best time of day to water your lawn is the early morning. This is the time when your lawn will drink up the most water. It is also a time when a little water will go a much longer way, as evaporation is minimal at these early hours. You should also take great care to insure that the water is evenly distributed across your lawn. Watering at night may promote the growth of disease because the water simply sits on the lawn all night rather than being absorbed and used. Watering your lawn during the middle of the day in some areas my simply deep-fry your green grass rather than leaving it lush and green. The exact opposite of what I am fairly certain you are hoping for. When trying to determine how often you should water your lawn there are many things that play a vital role in that decision. The weather is the most obvious of all determining factors. The hotter and dryer the weather the more often you will need to water. Now there are many areas that are hot and humid and these areas will not require nearly as much water as desert climates. The proper amount of water is more often than not a lot of common sense combined with a little bit of intuition. You will not need to water as much when the weather is cooler and the rainy seasons often provide a fair amount of natural water that will eliminate the need for adding water on a regular basis. The best advice that can be given when it comes to how often you should water your lawn is to check the lawn itself. If the lawn is dry and in need of water it will not necessarily die but will take on a bluish tint that will be the first indicator. Once this happens you should take a little more care with the watering process and water a little more often. Other than that keep an eye on your grass for indicators of when youll need water and the weather channel for when the water may arrive through natural processes and water accordingly.
What Does Lime Do For Your Yard?

Our lawns are an important investment for us to make in the way others perceive us and our families. They are the first impressions that many people have of how we live our lives and the care we take of our things. Knowing this should encourage most of us to desire to carefully tend our lawns and gardens. However, not all of us were born blessed with green thumbs and some of us simply lack the education and knowledge of the little things that can be done in order to bring green back to our lawns and gardens. One such secret is lime. In case you are wondering exactly what does lime do for your lawn the answer to that is many things. When it comes to proper lawn and garden care the cause of problems such as yellow grass, pale grass, or even dead patches in your lawn. You may have tried fertilizing, mowing at different heights, or even mulching and nothing seems to work. You may also have ruled out all the usual suspects such as insects and funguses. When youve eliminated the normal culprits and all else has failed, looked beneath the surface for answers and go underground.
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Just like your skin, the earth needs balance in order to look young, fresh, and beautiful. The pH balance of earth should be neutral in order for grass to grow lush and green. You can buy kits that will test the acidity of your lawn letting you know whether or not you need to take steps toward adjusting the acidity of your lawn. The good news is that adding lime to your lawn can repair the damage of time and depleted nutrients or even added nutrients that create a more acidic soil on your property. Read the labeling of your testing kit or consult a professional landscaper for assistance when it comes to the proper amount of lime to add to your landscaping in order to achieve the results you desire. There is no reason to suffer through dead and dieing grass or even to have a lawn that is yellowed or patched. If your soil is very acidic it is a good idea to use around 40 pounds of lime pellets for every thousand square feet of lawn you wish to work with at least 2 if not 3 times a year. You should also consult with gardening experts at your local supply store or a landscaping contractor for information that is more relevant to your area. There really is no across the board amount of lime to use as this is a situational solution and all situations tend to vary. The reason one would need lime for your lawn in short would be for the purpose of restoring the beauty and balance that Mother Nature occasionally needs a hand in achieving. Using lime will replace a lawn that was simply putunhealthy looking and replace it with a lush and green lawn that you are eager to show off to friends, family, and even coworkers.
Tips For Getting Landscaping Ideas

So you want to do some landscaping, do some updating or make some changes to landscaping that you have already done. You have thought about it and keep thinking I would like to make some changes, additions or alterations but cant come up with any ideas of what or how to do it. There are many, many books and magazines out in the market that have wonderful ideas for landscaping ideas and how to accomplish the task at hand. These are a great choice because you actually get to see a picture of what you may like to have or at least an idea and the step by step directions of how to accomplish the project. They may give you the landscape drawing plan, the name of the plants or the types of materials that are used to make your creation. They might tell you tools that you would need and the cost of materials along with a projected time on how long the project should take. Another good source for ideas is television and home and garden shows. There is an abundance of programs on television that give you great ideas for landscaping. They can show you the latest landscaping fades, the newest techniques in landscaping, new plants that have come out and the newest tools to make any landscaping job quicker and easier. This also leaves you the option to create a copy of a program of particular interest or purchase the information on DVD. These shows more than likely will have a website you can go to if there was something of particular interest and you can view the program via the internet without incurring any charges or fees. A little secret that I have learned via surfing the net that I would like to share with my readers is, that if there is a charge for any type of viewing of programs, landscaping plans or articles, pass them on by. There is so much free information that there is no reason it has to be paid for. Driving around in your car is another good way to get ideas. You can see what other people in your area have done and pick up some ideas that way. You might come across several ideas that you like, and figure out how to consolidate those ideas into one scheme. Just think, you could create a whole new landscaping scheme and share your new ideas with others. What a thought!
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I think one of the best things I have found is going to college websites. Think about it. There are so many colleges that implement horticultural programs. These sites are so loaded with information that it can actually be an overload. Do searches on horticulture adding .edu extension to you search criteria. The .edu stands for education. Not only do you get the most current and up to date information on landscaping and plants, some colleges literally give away their college level coursework on their websites!


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LANDSCAPING

YOU SHOULD KNOW THE FACTS ABOUT LANDSCAPING

MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

32. 33. 34. 35. 36.

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

Hard landscape materials

What Equipment To Use For Landscaping:

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

Capital Landscaping Equipment

Landscape Equipments For Maintenance

Toro Landscape Equipment

Landscape Equipment and Mower Attachments

Trailer Attachments and Accessories

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

Fertilizer - Salt Spreaders - Applicators

Landscape & Property Management Tools

Golf and Sports Field Equipment

Commercial Compost Tea Brewers

Replacement Mower Parts

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

Replacement Trimmer, Edger and Blower Parts

Replacement Equipment Aerator Tines, Rake Teeth, Blades

Replacement Tires and Wheels

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

Garden Center / Greenhouse Tools

Watering & Irrigation Supply

HOW TO BUILD A GARDEN BENCH

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

HOW TO BUILD A RETAINING WALL

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

TIPS FOR GROWING GORGEOUS HOSTA PLANTS

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

BUILDING A TIRE SWING

3 LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE TIPS FOR YOUR LAWN

Landscaping Lighting Ideas

Shrubs That Grow The Fastest

FAST GROWING TREES

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

Landscape Design Your Garden To Complete Your Home

Common Poisonous Plants Found In Many Homes And Gardens

What Is The Best Type of Grass Seed?

What is the Best Brand of Lawn Fertilizer?

Low Maintenance Landscaping Ideas

How to Increase Curb Appeal of your Home without Breaking Budget

AVOIDING COMMON LANDSCAPING MISTAKES

Planting Evergreens Made Easy

How To Plant A Weeping Cherry Tree

General Tips For Growing Orchids

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

The Greatness Of Growing Your OWn Herbs

A Rock Garden Is Easy To Build

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

What Is The Best Type of Grass Seed?

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

A Few Methods For Adding Color To Your Landscaping

The Best Time of The Year To Re-Seed Your Lawn

AUTHOR: MOHAMMAD ABDUL KARIM AZAD

Trees That Provide The Most Privacy

Fabulously Relaxing Backyard Ideas

How To Control Weeds Without Harmful Chemicals