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Read all about tips and tricks to make your yard a paradise

OCI Landscaping and IrrigationLandscaping Articles
23 Mar 2021
By yardmaintenance Landscaping

Tips On Hiring A Professional Landscape Designer

Landscaping, when done properly, creates amazing aesthetic appeal. Landscaping should also be planned around your own needs and wants. Although this may seem like a daunting task, this article will give you tips and suggestions for making your landscape meet your needs.

Test your soil before beginning your landscaping project. Soil tests help you figure out what has to be eliminated or added, so you can fix these things before planting. This will ensure your garden and landscaping have a greater opportunity to flourish under optimum conditions.

TIP! To give your landscaping a new fresh look, re-edge your rock or flower beds with curves that are soft. Curved borders create much more interest than the straight borders of the past.

Select plants wisely, as it will have a big impact on your project. It’s no good to wind up with plants that thrive on sunlight tucked away in the shadiest part of your yard. Also, make sure that any trees you put in have space to grow. Take time to do adequate planning to ensure that your plants do well where you plant them.

Purchase your landscaping needs at different times of the year to get good discounts. For example, buy lumber in the winter, and buy mulch or trees at the end of the season. When a store gets new plants, wait about three years for their price to go down before buying them.

When it comes to landscaping, don’t just stick to a few types of plants. This is key to protecting the yard from disease or bacteria. If you use few types of plants, the insect or disease will take them all out. Diversity is crucial for plant health when landscaping.

TIP! When landscaping, it is best to use plants which are native to the area. This involves incorporating flowers, trees, and bushes that are local.

Many people do not realize that you do not have to hire an expert to plan your landscaping. This will result in you investing a lot of money. However, if you do plan to landscape on your own, it is beneficial to talk to a pro first to make sure you’re not going down the wrong path with your ideas.

Always keep any existing structures in mind prior to any landscaping project. Know where all pipes and other hardware are located so that you can landscape around them. If you have plans to dig in your yard, contact your county or city ahead of time to avoid damaging underground utility lines.

To add lots of color and texture to your yard on a tight budget, try planting some wildflowers. Packets of wildflower seeds are available in many stores and can be scattered in large areas and where it would be difficult to plant. This strategy results in many different colors and types of beautiful flowers. A mix of flowers makes for great bouquets.

TIP! Use native plants in your yard. Local plants are simpler to take care of since they are used to the soil.

Don’t focus on spending as little money as possible. Sometimes the quality of cheaper items is not worth the lower price tag because they break down more quickly. If you are a landscaping novice, a specialty store will cost more, but have the quality and advice that you need.

Create a softer look in your yard with curved borders. Rounded edges have a better visual appeal than cornered edges. When people look at your property from the sidewalk, the curving lines of these borders will look more natural in contrast with the geometric lines of your home and driveway.

If you are doing all of the landscaping yourself, always take time out to estimate your potential costs. Make a complete list of all the plants, soil, rocks, fertilizer and tools you will need. After you have your list, figure out where you are going to purchase each item. The cost of these items can vary wildly, depending on where you live. Find out how you can acquire quality materials for lower prices.

Foliage Plants

Foliage plants with a variety of textures will help to keep your landscape interesting. Many plants only blossom for short periods, causing your yard to look dull in between blossoms. Foliage plants and evergreens can help fill in this gap, keeping your yard looking fresh and green year-round.

As you build your landscape design, make sure to address issues of function and form in equal measure. Obviously, there will be budgetary limitations. Rest assured, you can achieve your landscaping goals even while working within this. The tips contained here can help you achieve all of this, and more. You will be pleased by what landscaping can do for you.

20 Mar 2021
By yardmaintenance Landscaping ,

You Don’t Need To Hire An Expensive Landscaper. Use These Simple Tips Instead!

Landscaping can transform your yard from something blah into something wow! You just need to learn a few techniques to improve your landscaping skills. Use the tips in this article to learn more about improving your property through effective landscaping.

Think about making a drawing of your prospective landscaping project before you begin the work. You’ll be able to get a clear idea of the results and the materials needed to achieve those results. Making your mistakes on paper first can save you lots of time later on.

TIP! When you landscape, it is wise to utilize native plants. Be sure to use shrubs, trees, and flowers native to your region when landscaping.

A softly curving border can give just the right bit of focus and punch that your landscape needs. The look of soft curves is more popular now than the look of straight lines and sharp corners. Cutting fresh edges is an inexpensive project that can make a big impact on how your lawn and flower bed looks.

Native plants are a joy to work with and should be used whenever possible. They’ll love your soil, you won’t have to water them often, as they’re used to your rainfall levels and they can tolerate your temperature conditions. This allows them to be easily maintained. You could find more info on plants that are local to your area at any gardening store in your region.

If your landscaping plans include an outdoor kitchen, it pays to use granite as your primary material. Even though granite tends to be a bit more expensive than marble or other options, it tends to be more durable and easier to maintain.

TIP! If an outdoor kitchen is in your design plans, granite is the best choice when selecting a material for your prep surfaces. There are many different attractive kinds of stone available, but granite provides the best value in terms of durability and low maintenance requirements.

Select plants wisely, because that could seriously affect the result of your overall landscaping project. Obviously, you wouldn’t choose plants that prefer shade if you are landscaping a sunny area. Don’t plant trees if there is not enough room for growth. Take time to be sure your plants are going to thrive.

When planning your landscape project, include several different species of plants and shrubs. Doing so can help protect your landscape design in case of disease or insect infestation. If you use all the same plants, they will all be attacked and lost. Diversity is important in landscaping for plant health.

Think about the existing structures around the landscaping project before starting on it. Look at where cables, sprinkler pipes, gutters, air conditioners, and other parts of your home are located so that your new landscaping does not interfere with them. Take the time to call and have the county mark out any underground lines and cables.

TIP! Choose the higher quality items over the cheap stuff. Big chains and home improvement stores usually carry cheaper, lower quality products.

Consider planting wildflowers if you want to add a burst of color to your yard without breaking your budget. You can find wildflower seeds at most home improvement stores. Just scatter them over a large area or anywhere that is difficult to plant. This strategy results in many different colors and types of beautiful flowers. You can place wildflowers into bouquets to give as gifts or adorn your dining room table.

Leave grass clippings on your lawn after you mow it. This adds really good nutrients to the lawn’s soil as it decays and will reduce the amount of fertilizer you have to apply.

Do not think that spending less money is the best way to go. Cheaper option will not always give you a suitable quality. Go to a gardening shop or greenhouse to get the best plants, products and advice.

Peat Moss

A good way to keep your plants surviving longer is by using peat moss. This allows you to give nutrients to your plants that they potentially lack. Peat moss is also a beautiful addition to any garden, adding a pop of bright green over the soil.

As you have learned from the above article, landscaping doesn’t have to be difficult, especially when done correctly. Apply these tips and see the landscaping results you want! As you gain more experience, you will be ready to tackle bigger projects that give you beautiful results. Start down your new and exciting path today!

17 Mar 2021
By yardmaintenance Landscaping , ,

How To Clear Your Lawn Of Pesky Weeds

Everyone would like a yard that their neighbors envy, but very few understand enough about proper landscaping. Once you are properly educated, landscaping becomes a lot easier. This article is your go-to guide for learning what you need to know to landscape a beautiful yard or garden.

When landscaping, it is best to use plants which are native to the area. When choosing plants, native plants are a perfect fit because they will thrive in your climate. Native plants tend to be hardy species, able to thrive in less-than-ideal soil and with less water in even the poorest weather conditions.

TIP! Use native plants whenever you landscape. Your garden should contain greenery that is indigenous to the area for best results.

Native plants are a joy to work with and should be used whenever possible. Local plants are batter able to handle your soil conditions and are less likely to develop problems. Thus, they are a great choice for anyone who is unwilling or unable to spend a lot of time on maintenance. Check out a local gardening store and see what plants are actually native in your area.

If you are thinking about adding an outdoor kitchen, then consider using granite as your surface cover. Even though granite tends to be a bit more expensive than marble or other options, it tends to be more durable and easier to maintain.

Build the optimum landscaping by creating a garden that shines no matter the season. Select plants that will grow in the fall, spring, summer and winter, as is realistic for your area. It is also possible to utilize trees that offer beautiful foliage as well as evergreen specimens so that your outdoor space looks good any time of year.

TIP! When planning a landscape, know the differences between annuals and perennials, and know which plants, flowers and shrubs will work best in a certain area and climate. You should keep seasonal variations in mind when you choose plants, too.

When planning a landscaping project, include more than just one or two varieties of plants. You need to make sure that your yard is protected from potential diseases or insect attacks. A single threat of this kind can devastate your yard if you rely on one plant species that is vulnerable to it. Diversity is key when planning a landscape project.

Use the Internet to your advantage; you are likely to spend less money and find a wider variety of products to purchase. There are a wide variety of websites that offer quality landscaping products at reasonable prices. Be sure to view customer’s reviews to ensure the product you are ordering is one of good quality. You should also compare prices on several websites before purchasing any materials.

Before you go to a gardening store to get your materials together, measure out your work area and make sure the measurements are exact. This will allow you to know exactly how much of any item you need. Having this knowledge will help you to avert buying too little or too much of anything.

TIP! Landscaping is more than planting a tree or laying down sod. To add substance and texture, look for places to add wood, iron or cement structures.

Wildflowers are a great way to inject a great deal of color without breaking the bank. You can get wildflower seeds almost anywhere; most home improvement stores have them. You can scatter the seeds in large areas or anyplace where you are having trouble putting plants. The result will be beautiful flowers of all types and colors! A mix of flowers makes for great bouquets.

Anyone who intends to do their own landscaping must first plan a budget. List out each material, plant and even labor costs before you begin. Based on the materials you need, find a store that sells good quality items at reasonable prices. Prices can vary wildly based on where you make your purchases. Locate where quality materials can be purchased at the lowest price.

Ask for references if you hire a landscaper to handle your yard design. Cost is also important, but examples of their work will tell you right off the bat whether or not they can accomplish your project.

TIP! A lot of people don’t think about shopping on the Internet when they think of landscaping. You not only will find online shopping more convenient, but will discover more choices if you look online.

Speak with an experienced professional before beginning your project. Even if you are landscaping yourself, it is always a smart move to take the time to speak with a professional. If you’re inexperienced, they will offer advice and protect you from mistakes. They can still be of value to you with a second opinion if you are familiar with various landscaping techniques.

Now you know how to get the beautiful landscape you have always wanted. Keep these tips in mind and implement them when possible. Soon, you’ll be the buzz of your entire neighborhood thanks to your yard.

14 Mar 2021
By yardmaintenance Landscaping

Easy Landscaping Tips For The Novice Landscaper

With some effort, you can learn how to use landscaping in ways that will make your house stand out from the others. People want their houses to look great on their block, but many times they don’t know how to accomplish that. This article comes in handy to respond to this issue. Continue to read on to find great advice on being a good landscaper.

Prior to starting your landscaping, sketch out how you envision it. When you make a sketch, you get a visual of your ideas and you will get a more realistic idea of what tools will be needed to finish the job. Not to mention that it’s easier to change a sketch than rearranging plants and such once they are planted.

TIP! Choose the higher quality items over the cheap stuff. It is easy to find products in many home improvement stores that are reduced cost but low quality.

To landscape successfully, you must understand the difference between annual and perennial plants. You must also be aware of which plants, shrubs and flowers grow best in your particular geographical area and its climate. Make sure to consider seasons when landscaping. It is very important that you know this information in order to get the best results from your landscaping experience.

If you are thinking about adding an outdoor kitchen, then consider using granite as your surface cover. Granite is a low maintenance material so while it might cost you more during the initial install, it will be worth the money later on since you won’t be faced with constant bills for replacements and repairs.

Use a drip irrigation system to help you water your plants. The expense of this system will be worth it. These irrigation systems can be easily installed and they could give your plants continuous streams of water. This is also a more efficient way to water your plants, this is because this system drips as opposed to a stream like in a sprinkler system or hose.

TIP! Consult a professional before starting any major landscaping project. While you might not need to hire them to complete the entire job, you will find that the small amount you pay for a consultation is well spent as it will help you to avoid mistakes and get started on the right foot.

Despite beliefs to the contrary, it is not always necessary to hire a professional landscaper for your project, no matter how large or small it may be. You will probably end up paying far more than necessary, especially if you are capable of doing the labor yourself. But an hour or so consultation with a trusted landscaper may help you avoid costly mistakes later, and can help make your job much easier.

When doing a DIY landscaping project, try getting a brief consultation with a landscape architect or designer to see what they think you should get for your design. A professional can be a great resource that provides you with time and money-saving advice. It should only cost about $75 for an hour of their time, but that will be more than paid for thanks to their advice.

Allow your mower to leave behind some of the clipped grass while mowing your lawn. As they decompose, the grass clippings will provide nutrients to your yard, so the lawn will be in less need of fertilizer.

TIP! A mower that chops clippings into tiny pieces is a great way to add nutrients back to your lawn. This saves the need for fertilizing your lawn, as the grass clippings add nutrients when they decompose.

Do not focus too much on trying to keep costs to a minimum. While you can locate inexpensive supplies, the quality can be below what you want or need. If you are just starting out in landscaping, a store which specializes in it can give you good helpful advice and guide you to creating something much better.

Keep all four seasons in mind as you design your landscaping. This strategy incorporates different plants that bloom in different seasons. Researching plants is what will make your landscape attractive all year.

In order to create an environment that is easily maintained, durable and attractive, try to use native specimens whenever you can. Foreign plants find it harder to adapt to your home’s environment, yet native plants have already adapted to this environment, so they’ll fit in with ease. The upkeep of these local plants will be less as well, which can save you money on water bills.

TIP! Sometimes, doing things in the least expensive way possible is not always best. Cheaper option will not always give you a suitable quality.

When purchasing materials for your landscaping project, don’t always go with what is cheapest. It might be worthwhile to pay more at a store which provides good customer service and quality. Check out all possibilities before actually making any purchases. Sometimes, spending a few extra bucks can actually save you money over time.

Now that you have learned about how to create a better landscape, you can put these skills to the test. This article has supplied you with so many great tips that you can start today by drafting out your project. Put this advice to good use and beautify your land.

11 Mar 2021
By yardmaintenance Landscaping ,

Interested In Learning More About Landscaping? Continue To Read

It might seem tough to transform your yard, but it’s not really all that hard once you know what you are doing. Learning about landscaping will make your project easier. Take a look through this article and get an idea of what landscaping is all about with the following tips.

Consider re-edging flower beds with subtle curves for a new look. Curved beds are the newer style and much more up-to-date than a sharp corner or straight line. Cutting fresh edges is an inexpensive project that can make a big impact on how your lawn and flower bed looks.

TIP! Always look to incorporate native plants in your landscape design. When landscaping your garden, always try to use trees, shrubs and flowers that are local to your area.

Before embarking on your project, make a list that includes everything you need. The worst thing is to have to stop your project in the middle because you are short on mulch or missing a critical tool.

Drip Style

A drip style irrigation system is a great addition for your yard. These irrigation systems are easy to install, and they allow you to give your plants a continuous stream of water. Drip style systems are advantageous as well because they actually conserve water. Sprinkler systems, in contrast, are water hogs and don’t distribute a steady flow of water to the roots of the plants.

TIP! Use local plants for your yard. Native plants by their very nature will grow well in your area with a minimum of upkeep.

Designing a garden that will look beautiful in all seasons will ensure that your hard work is enjoyed year round. Pick plants that can bloom in every season, depending on your area. Trees which turn red in the winter or evergreen bushes are excellent choices for the colder months.

There’s much more to landscaping then simply planting some grass and trees. You can add visual interest by including structures of iron, cement, will wood. You can add more depth to your yard by adding archways, pergolas, decks or birdbaths. These elements come in a broad range in terms of prices for any budget.

When planning your landscaping, experiment by planting a variety of plants. This is a vital thing to do to protect your lawn from insects and diseases. If these attacks reach your plants, and they are all of the same species, they will all die. Landscaping with a diverse selection helps keep plants healthy.

TIP! Prior to beginning your landscaping project, you should know which greenery and flowers will flourish in your area and when perennials and annuals will bloom. Keep the seasons in mind as you landscape.

It really isn’t necessary to hire a professional to do all of the work on your landscaping project. This will result in you investing a lot of money. However, it could be wise to consult a landscaper that can give you advice on the things that you need to do.

Avoid thinking that buying cheap is always best. When it comes to landscaping, you often get what you pay for, making the cheapest options the worst ones. Specialty stores might be able to offer you useful advice if you are a novice.

Peat Moss

TIP! Test your soil before beginning your landscaping project. Having your soil tested could help you know what you need to add to it and what you need to eliminate.

A good way to keep your plants surviving longer is by using peat moss. Peat moss also gives off nutrients that your plants require. Additionally, peat moss is a very beautiful contrast to the rest of your landscape.

Use curved borders around your plantings when you are landscaping your yard. Use rounded shapes to have better visual appeal as opposed to straight, squared-off borders. These curved lines can add to your curb appeal by softening the defined lines of your home, garage and driveway.

Get references before hiring a professional landscape designer. While bids will likely affect your final choice, you also want to know that any landscaper you choose is capable of completing your project to your satisfaction.

TIP! You get what you pay for. Quality landscaping items are usually better than cheap, inferior quality items.

Don’t overlook how some landscaping for your home and yard will affect your overall property. Consider the effects that certain plantings might have in areas where underground pipes and cable lines may be co-located. Similarly, plants that grow up to block access views in and out of your property should be avoided. Carefully consider these things when you are creating your landscape plan and any others you can think of.

Add water features to your landscaping design. You can easily install pumps and a small pool or fountain for instance. If you are able to afford one, a pond or waterfall is a great back or front yard addition. Water features can really draw the eye and provide a centerpiece to your project.

Landscaping, as you read earlier, is not simple. Yet, with a bit of knowledge and research anyone can learn what it takes to landscape their home. Knowledge about landscaping will greatly help your efforts. You can landscape your home’s lawn beautifully by following the tips presented here.

08 Mar 2021
By yardmaintenance Landscaping

Tips And Tricks On Having The Best Looking Landscaping On The Block

TIP! Before beginning your next landscaping project, consider sketching out how you would like it to look first. Sketching out your designs is a great way to see exactly what the project will entail.

Landscaping is a critical skill that one needs for a more aesthetically pleasing home. Many individuals want their houses to look great but are unsure of what to do to achieve that. You can use this article to help you with that. Keep reading for tips on how you can become a great landscaper.

TIP! Try to use native plants when landscaping. When you are landscaping your yard or garden, make sure you use flowers, shrubs and trees that are considered to be local to the area.

If you want to transform your yard, try re-edging your flower and rock beds using a soft, curved design. The look of soft curves is more popular now than the look of straight lines and sharp corners. Not only is cutting fresh edges an inexpensive project, it can also make a huge difference in the appearance of your flower beds and your lawn.

TIP! Native plants are a joy to work with and should be used whenever possible. Local plants are batter able to handle your soil conditions and are less likely to develop problems.

Plant things that are native to your area. They’ll love your soil, you won’t have to water them often, as they’re used to your rainfall levels and they can tolerate your temperature conditions. Thus, they are a great choice for anyone who is unwilling or unable to spend a lot of time on maintenance. You could find information on plants that are local to the place you live by going to a local gardening store.

TIP! Get the most out of your landscaping efforts by creating a multi-seasonal garden. Choose plants that bloom during different times of the year, as well as ones that are local to the area.

A good tip for landscaping is to list all of the materials needed before you get started on any project. There are few things worse than beginning your project and discovering you are missing a needed item. Then, you have to stop working so you can go purchase the missing material.

TIP! Choosing quality products will pay off in the long run. Most home improvement discount retailers only offer lower quality items.

Use a drip irrigation system to help you water your plants. The expense of this system will be worth it. Such watering mechanisms are simple to install, and provide for more consistent watering. The water is also more efficient, because it is a drip rather than a stream, as would be the case with a hose or sprinkler system.

TIP! A lot of people never consider purchasing landscape supplies online. This can not only save you money, but it can also help you to find plants that are more rare and not carried locally or even in specialty stores in your area.

Don’t try to accomplish all of your landscaping projects at the same time. Instead, divide the project into several phases. This will be less overwhelming and easier to afford. If any changes arise, this will make it easier to implement them.

TIP! Time your purchases in such a way that you save money. Winter can be the best time to purchase lumber while mulch, trees and plants may be cheaper at the end of the season.

When planning your landscape, consider speaking with a professional. Although you may not need their help on your whole plan, a consultation is worth it, seeing as you can avoid costly mistakes. Especially if you don’t have experience in landscaping, this step is vital.

TIP! Prior to going to the nursery to purchase the plants for your landscaping project, take some good measurements of the area to be renovated. This will allow you to accurately determine how many of each type of item you need.

When you plan landscaping modifications, think about existing structures nearby before breaking ground. You need to make sure your landscaping changes will not interfere with any features on your property, such as sprinklers, overhead wires, air conditioners and gutters. To protect yourself, call your city to find out if there are any cables located where you will be placing your landscape designs.

TIP! Consider how your landscape will look all year long when you are planning it. Choose plants that blossom in spring and summer, and think about planting some conifers for a touch of green in winter.

If you are going to be the one mowing your lawn, use a mulching mower so the clippings will go back into the lawn. This adds really good nutrients to the lawn’s soil as it decays and will reduce the amount of fertilizer you have to apply.

TIP! Create continuity of you landscape with evergreens and foliage plants. This way, when your flowers and plants have finished blooming, you will still have interesting and colorful items in your landscape.

If you are assembling your own landscape plan, add an estimate for the cost. Write out the items you know you will need on paper. Then, consider where you ought to purchase everything you need. Costs can vary greatly from place to place. Look for ways you can get top-notch materials at a lower cost.

TIP! Research different textures of plant leaves to add variety and beauty to your yard. Highly textured plants sprinkled throughout the garden will add points of interest.

Mulch is a necessary foundation for most flower beds. Mulch keeps moisture in the soil so that heat and dry air don’t kill your plants. A key function of mulch is its ability to distribute water to plants as needed.

TIP! Make sure you don’t underestimate the importance of landscaping and the effect it has on your home. If you do not take the proper precautions, you may find that some plants with roots can harm underground pipes or bushes that block your view when leaving your driveway.

The key to landscaping on a budget is breaking each project down into small, attainable phases. There is nothing wrong with breaking your project down into steps and seasons. Doing so is much easier to handle financially. Just keep track of everything that you do by writing it down and figure out what is important to do first.

TIP! Water is a great idea for landscaping designs. Ponds and streams through your yard can be dynamic additions.

When mapping out your landscape, don’t forget to consider the effects certain plants can cause. The roots of some plants and trees can damage your pipes that lay nearby or even your foundation if they are planted too closely. Take these sorts of issues into consideration as you carefully plan your landscaping design.

TIP! A solid plan created before you begin can save you money. Start by drawing up a basic sketch of your ideas so that it’s easier to figure out what sort of materials you’ll need.

Always keep climate in mind as you select your plants and flowers. You may have your heart set on a particular plant, but if the conditions aren’t right, that plant will never grow. Also keep in mind the amount of sunlight a plant needs, your local wind conditions, and levels of rainfall in your area.

TIP! If you are using trees in your garden as a form of privacy, make sure you buy fast-growing varieties. Just as the name suggests, these trees grow at a more rapid rate than regular trees.

Now that you know a few different things about landscaping, you can start practicing them. You will find that with this article and what you have learned, your landscaping skills will improve every time they are used. You can make your yard look beautiful by implementing this advice.

03 Sep 2018
By yardmaintenance Gardening, Landscaping

5 Must-Do Landscaping Projects for Your Ornamental Garden

Adding a touch of beauty to any outdoor home setting can seem simple. Depending on the scope of the project, it may be a simple renovation handled in a couple of hours, or a major task requiring outside help.

backyard landscaping ideas kelowna

Whatever the situation, we can all agree that adding beauty to our gardens and lawns improves the curb appeal of any property, adds benefit to enjoying the great outdoors and can improve property values. There are countless home improvement and landscaping projects that any homeowner can consider, but which ones are must-haves when enhancing the quality of your ornamental garden?

Today, let’s look at five of them and show you how easy it can be to get the job done.

Terraced Gardens

All too often, homeowners fail to take proper use of their potentially-viable gardening areas. In particular, hills are often overlooked as a prime source for ornamental beauty, due to a variety of issues. Another reason is the logistical challenges (check out Architectural Landscape Design for an idea of how professional landscapers tackle these challenges).

However, terraced gardening is one exceptional use of uneven terrain that can maximize your garden’s square footage and provide better results than level areas. Terraced gardening helps ensure all plants are properly watered and drained, leading to faster growth. It can also be great for sprucing up banks, ditches and other areas where some beauty is definitely necessary.

Square Foot Gardening

Maximizing the use of your horizontal gardening space isn’t easy, but one simple landscaping trick can help: square foot gardening.

With this strategy, you break your garden into single square foot areas; there are tools available online to help you properly plan this landscaping endeavor. Whether you opt for a permanent grid system or use a ruler to measure, square foot gardening is great in conjunction with other landscaping efforts (such as drainage/irrigation channels) to improve gardening performance.

Raised Beds

When we think of gardening, we tend to imagine stationary beds and features. Why should this always be the case?

With a raised bed, you can create growing areas that are both elevated and/or mobile. While many raised beds are simply lifted for better access and controlled growing conditions, there are other mobile raised bed options that allow for frames to be attached to wheels, giving you the option of moving each bed depending on the lighting and growing conditions. This is a must-consider feature for any ornamental garden.

Vertical Planting

Especially useful for those who don’t have a lot of space in which to garden, vertical planting brings a whole new dimension – literally – into gardening.

With your green thumb liberated from two-dimensional space, you can construct a variety of growing mediums that rise up rather than out. Some options include affixing planters to the side of the house and constructing frames out of low-cost materials that allow plants to be grown on multiple sides (great for light control).

Enhance with Shrubbery

Even if you prefer flowering varieties of plants for your ornamental garden, you can really improve the look and feel of the area – not to mention the entire yard – by using a combination of shrubs for a fuller appearance.

From bamboo and castor oil plants to butterfly bushes and cotoneaster, these shrubs and bushes will accentuate your garden rather than dominate it – and can be used for landscaping throughout the entire yard as well.

Changing the landscape of your garden area – whether it be temporary or permanent – is a common aspiration for many. If you’re ready to improve how your ornamental gardens look and feel, then consider the advice given here and act quickly in time for this year’s growing season.

 

Contributed by: Brent Szotak expert landscaper and foremost expert in ornamental gardens

26 Jul 2018
how to fix water soaked lawn
By yardmaintenance Landscaping, Lawn

How to Fix a Waterlogged Lawn

 

Although we all know that a well-kept lawn requires regular watering, it is important to get the right balance.  Too much water can actually lead to problems such as root rot and diseased plants.  If your lawn retains water, leaving pools behind every time it rains, it could be waterlogged.  Here are some different ways in which you can solve this problem.

 

Install a Drainage System

This is, of course, the most expensive option, so you want to be sure that you do in fact have a drainage problem before you go ahead.  It could just be that heavy rainfall means the water takes longer to drain away, so a simple test can determine whether your lawn is actually waterlogged.  Dig a hole two feet deep and fill it with water.  If that water has not drained within four hours, it does require drainage.  To install a drainage system, you will need to start work in late summer or early winter when the soil is dry.  The procedure then involves digging a ditch to redirect the stagnant water.  There are different types of ditch, such as French and Herringbone, so it would be wise to do some research before you get started or to perhaps enlist the help of a professional.

Lawn Re-grading

If you have noticed that you have water problems in your basement, it could actually be that the lawn is on a slope, causing the water to drain towards your house.  Re-grading your lawn can correct this problem whilst creating a more useable lawn at the same time.  Lawn grading and leveling is a great way to fix puddling, but it may require a completely new grass reseed or sod.

Invest in a Rain Barrel

 

water barrelAlthough the guttering around your house does a great job of keeping the rain from accumulating on the roof, you may not have considered drainage for your sheds and/or outbuildings.  If you install guttering around your shed and redirect it to a rain barrel, you are providing yourself with two advantages; one, you are redirecting rain that would otherwise clog your lawn, and two, you will have an extra water supply during the drier seasons.

Choose the Right Plants

Believe it or not, but the plants growing in your garden can have an impact on the way your lawn drains itself.  Plants like those from the hydrangea species can actually help to regulate wet soil whereas fuchsias and geraniums are better suited to white clay soil gardens.  Rodgersia pinnata is another must-have plant for a garden with poor drainage, and most forms of Iris sibirica thrive in moisture.  Investing in the right plants is also a good idea if all your best efforts to remedy a waterlogged lawn have failed.  Opting for a bog garden aesthetic may be the only way to go.

Dealing with a waterlogged garden need not be a life-long problem.  Some of these methods could be the perfect solution for your lawn.

 

Contributed by: Bret Szotak, foremost expert in landscaping and irrigation.

02 Jul 2018
rock-patio with outdoor furniture
By yardmaintenance Landscaping ,

5 Backyard Ideas to Improve Your Outdoor Space

Who doesn’t love spending some quality time with family in the beautiful greenery of a backyard? Having the chance to admire a beautiful garden through a window or a sliding glass door is an option that not many people have. If you’re among those fortunate few, don’t waste your opportunity for a beautiful view by – leaving your patio unkempt or abandoned, full of all kinds of grasses growing wild over rotting furniture and rusty pipes. A nicely furnished backyard is a wonderful place to spend some time with your children… if it doesn’t look like a junkyard, at least.

Even if you worked hard to buy a house large enough to fit a nice patio or a beautiful, lush garden, finding the right time to take care of it properly can be difficult if you have a busy schedule. Don’t hire a gardener though: there’s a lot you can do to make your garden look better on your own, and we can assure you that doing it is a self-rewarding experience on its own.

Buying new backyard furniture can often be a bit expensive as well, if you want quality. Companies that sell patio furniture sometimes ask fairly steep prices, even for the most basic wooden bench or garden edging, as it is often regarded as some form of “luxury”. However building your own furniture is much simpler than you can imagine, and DIY (do-it-yourself) is also a great way to involve your loved ones in a family activity everybody is going to enjoy. In this guide, we will provide you with a few simple tips on how to build some simple ideas that you can accomplish in a weekend.

1. Build a Comfortable Outdoor Kitchen

A great backyard isn’t something many people have, but it is definitely something many people would love to have. For this reason, if you enjoy the luck of having a nice garden, you can be sure that a lot of friends would love to spend some time in it if given the opportunity. And nothing speaks more of fun and friendship like a nice backyard barbecue!

Enjoying a beer with friends, and sitting on a plastic chair while you smell the smoke of freshly roasted meat is a great way to spend a weekend, an outdoor kitchen is a much better way to enjoy your backyard. The good thing about this idea, is that you can always ask your friends to help you out with building the necessary furniture. It’s in their best interest, after all: they’re going to enjoy your backyard for an indefinite amount of time.

Buy some river rocks and use them to decorate a concrete or marble countertop you will use for food prep. Add a fancy grill and a closed storage, and you’ve  got everything you need to get your outdoor cooking station going. If you got more time (and money) at your disposal, you can also add a refrigerator and sink, and a separate side burner.

2. Create Cozy Shady Spots

Imagine how much charm can be added to your deck and patios with just a few umbrellas, pergolas and retractable awnings. Adding some shade here and there will allow your exhausted guests to take a break when they’re done with helping you build your outdoor kitchen. And it’s also a great way to spend your lazy afternoons enjoying a soft drink or cocktail. Just look out for the most colorful ones, and match their colors to your backyard furniture to make it look even more stylish.

3. Build a simple wooden gazebo

A simple DIY gazebo is a great way to add a “luxurious villa” feeling to your backyard. If it’s large enough it can provide a rightful new room (albeit a small one) in your garden where you can sit down, change your clothes before diving into your pool or just relax yourself while enjoying your own garden view. Many prefabricated gazebos can be bought for cheap on eBay or Amazon, and with the right tools it’s fairly simple to assemble and install them, even if you’re alone.

4. Carefully place outdoor lighting

How much cozier your patio could became by just adding a few lighting sconces to it? A couple of properly placed porch lights to illuminate your house’s entrance can create the perfect intimate atmosphere. Choosing the right wall-mounted downlights and low-voltage lights can make your garden look much more hospitable, especially in the evening. You can also drape overhead spaces with string lights to add some fun to your nicer garden spots.

5. Build Your Own Trellis

Building your own trellis is incredibly easy and cheap: all you need is lumber, a hammer, and some nails. Decorate it with a nice collection of miniature plants, bonsais, or flowerpots to add a playful charm to your backyard.

These are just a few ideas to make your backyard look nicer and feel cozier. But feel free to use your own imagination and creativity to invent new unique solutions.

 

Contributed by: Brent Szotak foremost expert in backyard design and landscaping

22 Jun 2018
organic-garden
By yardmaintenance Gardening

Ultimate Tips for Starting an Organic Garden

 

People today have a high interest in forming their own organic garden in order to have a healthy lifestyle. With the increasing awareness of eating healthy foods that are free from chemicals and pesticides, people are looking for all possible ways to shift to organic foods, especially from their own backyards, in most cases. The benefits of this toxin-free idea are really high, and the good thing is that people have started realising about it. The organic produce might demand a little work from you, but when it gives you all goodness of fresh fruits and vegetables, you can definitely owe back a little time and effort for it. Reading this post will help get a basic idea of setting up your own organic garden, cost-effectively.

Creating a Cost Effective Garden

Organic garden in your farm or backyard has several benefits such as healthy produce that are free from toxins and chemicals, but another main benefit of setting up your own organic garden is the cost-effective quality of it. Instead of buying organic produce from the market, if you put in a little effort to set up your own garden, you can really save a big amount. There are various tools and equipment that are available for a minimum cost, but with huge benefits for your farming. Well, make sure to mow your garden before you start the procedure. Well, the mower will does the work in your garden as you slack checking out the Janome Magnolia 7034D Serger review.

Little Space is Enough

True that more the bigger your area is, more you can farm. However, an ultimate tip for beginning your organic gardening is to start with few vegetables and fruits within the minimum space available to you. Start from simpler and basic essentials and upon the success of it; you can feel free to expand depending on your availability.

Many people think that farming needs really huge area and heavy maintenance, but it is not the case. Setting up an organic garden in the backyard with the minimum availability of resources and space will give good results. It is always good to do a soil test before setting up the organic garden might help to avoid wastage of the process.

Grow Local

When it is always good to eat local, it is simply that you have to always grow local. Understanding your climate and your land geography is the key for a successful organic garden. Talk to experts and get views about your local rich fruits and vegetables and plant them first. Gardening is not about planting all that you like to eat, but it is about planting all that is best friendly to your geography and climate. Pick labor free farming plants that will demand only low maintenance from you.

Gardening is Passionate

Be passionate and considerate about your gardening routine and enjoy the moments of it, because whatever you do with full interest will bring in full results.  Nothing is right or wrong about gardening, because it is all about how you explore it.

 

Cultivation is creation! Invest your full interest and dedication to your garden for growing up healthy, organic and pesticide-free vegetables and fruits. An organic garden is the best gift you can owe to your next generation. Just go for it!