Archive for the 'Landscaping' Category

Mar 05 2010

Healthy Lawn Care – Improving Your Soil is Key to a Gorgeous Lawn

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

Whether you refer to it as natural or organic, it really comes down to the fact that so many of us just want to participate in healthy lawn care. In order to get the desired results, it takes up front dedication, time and knowledge. Much like when someone must change their diet to become healthier, not only do they change what they eat, but there are other alterations within their lifestyle that are made and it takes dedication and time for the change to take place.


We know that we are going to make the change to healthy lawn care, so where do we start?


Improve Your Soil- Healthy soil contains everything needed to grow healthy grass and, as an added bonus, weed seeds don’t germinate as well, so less weeds. A soil test can give you a starting point. This can be arranged through your local conservation district office or local agricultural extension agent’s office. The results of the test should give you needed amendments to put your soil back into a neutral pH.


Select The Proper Grass for Your Area- Once your soil has been amended, you are ready to sow the seed. A visit to your local hardware store is needed here and should be educational. Visit one of the locally owned stores such as Ace Hardware or True Value Hardware or even your local Farmer’s Co-op as these stores typically have staff that is knowledgeable about these things. If you have shaded areas, you need to let them know as they will need to help you select a seed blend especially for that area. After sowing the grass seed, covering the newly sown area with a light layer of straw can prove beneficial as it will help to keep birds from eating the grass seeds, protect the area from washing should there be heavy rainfall before the seed can germinate, provide light shade and keep the soil moist. All of these factors, including warm weather, will help to speed the germination of the grass and it decomposes into the soil.


Mow less with taller grass- Allow the grass to grow a bit more before mowing. Set your mower blades for 3 inches and let the grass grow to 4 or 5 inches before mowing. Cutting grass down much lower can damage the roots and dry out the soil.


There are many organic lawn care products on the market that will naturally help your plants grow, keep weeds down and assist in building up the soil. Calcium, specifically, helps to energize plants and reduce weeds. Soil Conditioners helps to percolate and aerate the soil. Some are also available that contain biological components that can help to detoxify chemical applications from fertilizers and other products as well as help to keep flying insects at bay.


Now that you have healthy soil and grass is growing, how often do we water? Well, that will vary, but the University of Missouri Extension will help guide you through that process and give you tips on watering your lawn:


Home Lawn Watering Guide


Natural or organic lawn care isn’t completely without work, but it is certainly worth the initial effort to know that your lawn is healthy naturally and safe for humans, animals and the environment.

Cheryl D. Jones, co-owner of Greenwood Nursery, McMinnville, TN, shares tips and information on gardening and landscaping through her blog, newsletters and nursery website. Visit http://www.GreenwoodNursery.com/ for a full line of trees, shrubs, perennials, ornamental grasses and ground covers. Join the Greenwood Gardeners Club free to receive the nursery’s weekly newsletter, access to the members sales page, seasonal promotions and 10% off your first order.

No responses yet

Feb 02 2010

Fix Your Leaf Problems With a Commercial Leaf Vacuum

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

Leaf blower vacuums have the ability to blow or vacuum any size yard. Commercial leaf vacuums are now the traditional way to get rid of leaves. These commercial vacuums work great for your bigger areas like big yards and schools. Commercial leaf vacuums are also known as a leaf mulcher, leaf shredder, industrial leaf vacuum, yard vacuum and many more.

This two-in-one leaf shredder will make clearing and cleaning a lot more easy to do. The standard rake is definitely being put down due to these high tech machines. The leaf shredder will not only vacuum all leaves into one bag, it will also mulch them for an easier disposal. The leaf shredder will get in any done in half the time. These machines are very high tech and very powerful and only get bigger and better every year.

There are many types of vacuums and they can be purchased at most large retail stores. The most common is the hand-held blower/vacuum, then a push vacuum, and there is also a ride-on vacuum for you more commercial jobs. These are all three very common types of leaf vacuums and are widely used across America today. Commercial leaf shredder are also widely known and great for bigger spaces. Commercial leaf vacuums come in any size from push vacuums, to ride-on vacuums, to even vacuums that look like a small tractor. There is a perfect size leaf mulcher for every size job.

There are leaf shredders that attach to small tractors. These vacuums attach to the tractor for convenience and can easily be stored away. The leaf vacuums are also for commercial use as they will cover a larger area. Most large retailers will even allow people to rent a leaf shredder. If it is a job that the leaf mulcher will only be used once then renting the vacuum would be a great idea.

Some city ordinances also create public policy noise-limit rules. Which means looking into to getting a quiet leaf vacuum/blower is not a bad idea. Of course the more commercial leaf blower needed means the louder it will get but they do have a lot of different options on these commercial vacuums and noise is definitely one of the keys factors. So when buying a commercial leaf mulcher/blower some of the things to consider is how big of an area is going to be covered, how much power will be needed to get the job done faster, and what is the noise policy in the area to ensure you do not break any noise ordinances.

Susan has been using a commercial leaf vacuum for over 6 years. It is important to do your homework before you buy commercial leaf vacuums, so that you can find the best deal.

No responses yet

Feb 01 2010

Solar Garden Lights Reviews

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

What are solar garden lights? From the word itself, these are the usual garden lights that we spot in the store but the only difference is that it is run by solar energy. It is very fresh, unique and truly beneficial. Only few people get to recognize and embrace the use of these garden lights since they are familiar to the commercial products that are easily brought without realizing the real benefits that they are missing. The following are the most notable benefits of solar garden spot lights.

1. Save energy cost

Let’s face it, we are experiencing financial crisis in any point of our lives thus being thrifty is really a wise decision. To some garden light are only for decorations purposes but to others it may entail source of income or business.

Solar garden lighting is beneficial for it saves energy cost and you will see it over time. It’s not a one time shot of savings rather it will cut your cost in the long run.

2. Environment- friendly

Since it is powered by solar energy, it does not require mechanical forms and processes that will destroy nature in some point. You will get the freedom to use it without thinking the cost and after effects to the environment. Solar cells are used and it only needs energy from the sun to run the lights.

3. Easy to operate

Solar garden spot lights do not require complex knowledge on machinery and electricity. It is very easy to operate since no moving parts are attached. Another advantage of garden lights run by solar energy is that it is maintenance free because there are no connections necessary for it to operate. The LED bulbs are free from getting burn out and believe it or not, it can run up to 100,000 hours. Another notable fact is that LED lamps are very beneficial for it is known being one of the best sources of light emission.

Nowadays, we get to worry a lot of things but the use of garden light will make life a little easier. Homeowners must never miss this option if they want to safe, feel secured and be of help to environment. Solar garden lights are a little bit pricey in terms of its initial cost but the future savings and benefits are guaranteed.

It is a must that you do some research before buying for it must suit your needs and even your lifestyle. Although it is very beneficial, still there are so many factors to be considered. Solar landscape light is just another compliment to give us additional options wherein the final decision is left to use to be said and done.

===>> Click here to get more information on Garden Spot Lights and Backyard Landscape Designs

Visit our sites to find out more information, product reviews, and deals from online retailers on your garden stuff.

No responses yet

Jan 31 2010

Winter Garden Flowers

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

Winter is a coarse time for most plant lovers. Since the weather is cold, nobody is in the mood for anything. Humans feel bad during this time and plants are not feeling better too. There are some people who look for things to do during this time. If you are very much inclined in gardening even on a cold weather, you need to look for plants that will survive during this time of the year. Building a winter garden can be the best solution to your problem. This the best place to grow exotic plants which can survive a cold weather. You can grow some of the following:

• Climbers
• paprika
• tomatoes
• camellias
• hellebores
• Some scented plants

You can grow different kind of plants and vegetables during this time. Your seeds are limited because not all plants can withstand cold weather. Winter can be a fun season to nurture plants because some flowering plants bloom during cold season. You just have to be more careful in taking care of plants during this time. They can be very sensitive especially passion fruits and other fruit bearing plants.

Winter garden brings a lot of benefits into your home. They will not just provide you with clean fresh air; they can also bring a good exterior. As most winter plants bear flowers during this time. Your home will surely look good on those flowers. The smell of the leaves can provide you with a calming effect while the smell of the scented flowers gives your home a refreshing natural smell. You don’t need to buy artificial air fresheners for this.

You can start preparing your soil for a winter garden during the first day of October. During this time, night time can be perfectly cold although daytime can be steaming hot; it’s still the best time to start preparing your soil. While you are waiting for the winter season and still overcoming the Santa Ana wind, you can start preparing for the landscape that will perfectly suit your gardening needs.

You can decorate your garden so it won’t be boring during the cold months. Since cold season can be the perfect time to sleep and rest, you can do a lot of gardening during this time. It can be a good stress relief and relaxation technique. It’s the cheaper way of relaxing without spending anything.

You can decorate your garden by adding more winter plants to accent it. You should think more of bark, berries and shape. There are lots of plants which add color and style into your garden. Some of them are Japanese pagoda tree, delicious vines and lots more. Protect your garden from strong winds and natural perils. You can do that by putting wooden fences. You can protect your garden and still let your plants get some sunlight. They need it special during this time that they will face strong cold weather not just on day time but more during the night.

===>> Click here to get more information on Garden Spot Lights and Backyard Landscape Designs

Visit our sites to find out more information, product reviews, and deals from online retailers on your garden stuff.

No responses yet

Nov 08 2009

Simple Steps To Installing A Lawn Sprinkler System

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

Are you thinking about installing a lawn sprinkler system, and just not sure if you can do it? Well, you’re certainly not alone as sprinkler systems are more popular than ever these days. Regardless of whether you’re considering a Rainbird sprinkler system, Hunter sprinkler system, or any other lawn sprinkler, being able to do-it-yourself can seem like a daunting task. Here is a quick rundown on installing a lawn sprinkler system.

To get started you’re going to need to know the measurements of your yard and the area where you plan on watering. Layout where you would like to place your sprinkler heads. You’ll also want to think about where you’re going to locate the valve boxes.

Don’t think your plan needs to be drawn up like a professional landscaper would do, but you’ll want to write in as many details as you can. You’ll need to know this in order to buy your lawn sprinkler supplies. You need to know the answers to questions like; how many sprinkler heads do I need? How much pipe will I need? By sketching out a plan you’ll have the answers you need.

Next, you will need to have your utility companies come out and locate underground utility lines. I can’t stress the importance of this step enough. If you don’t do this and you dig up a line, you’re responsible for all damages that occur. It doesn’t cost a dime to have this done, and it could easily prevent you from rupturing a gas line or other utility. Be smart and have this done for you when installing a lawn sprinkler system.

Your next step after knowing where your utility lines are laid out is to begin digging for your sprinkler water lines. You can use a can of spray paint to mark out the grid system and help you know where to dig. When it comes to digging, you can either dig out the lines by hand with a shovel, or you can use a trenching machine. I don’t think I need to tell you how much hard work it will be to dig out the lines by hand. You can easily rent out a trencher at your local rental store on a per day basis. It’s relatively inexpensive, and the time and labor it will save you is well worth the extra expense. Unless you’re just wanting to get a good workout in, go the trenching route.

Once you’ve laid out the pipe you can begin connecting it all together. Attach the sprinkler heads and connect the pipe to your various valve boxes and you’re basically ready to go.

When looking at how to install a lawn sprinkler system, the biggest issues are time and patience. It will probably take the average do it yourselfer about a week to accomplish, unless you have a crew of family and friends helping you. It will also depend on your landscape. How big is your yard? What type of soil do you have? If it’s clay then things will take a little longer, especially if digging by hand.

Installing a lawn sprinkler system is not that difficult, and you’ll enjoy the results of your efforts for many years to come.

All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Reprint Rights: You may reprint this article as long as you leave all of the links active and do not edit the article in any way.

You can find much more information on Installing A Lawn Sprinkler System as well as more information on all types of sprinklers at http://www.SprinklersA-z.com

No responses yet

Nov 07 2009

Buying Landscaping Tools

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

If you are looking for a great gift, then you may want to consider giving tools to use for landscaping a year. At the first sign of spring, many people start yearning for time spent outside working on their yard. With excellent landscaping tools, you can help to make their landscaping more efficient and less taxing on them physically.

Choosing Shears

Every gardener needs a good pair of hand shears of clippers. They are a excellent choice for trimming shrubs, bushes, and even small trees. The great thing is that you can buy inexpensive shears and still receive the same results.

Spades and Shovels

A spade is used for digging and a flat shovel is used for creating bigger spaces or removing dirt. There is quite a variety in the different shovels, including different sizes and shapes. Handles are different lengths as well. If you are going to use it for digging in a small area, then you will want a shorter handle length. If you are using it predominantly for moving dirt, then you will want a longer handle.

Rake It Up

The best and most useful of the landscaping tools that you can purchase is a metal rake. Rakes come in all different price ranges, but a rake with metal teeth will last longer and will be a lot stronger for those landscaping jobs. Rakes can help you move dirt and debris from any landscaped area with very little effort and time.

Wheelbarrows and Garden Hoses

In the landscaping process, you will find that wheelbarrows can help you quite a bit. They can help you to move dirt, plants, or debris from one area to the next. Carrying supplies in your yard is also made easier with the wheelbarrow. If you want to carry around your garden tools, you may want to consider purchasing a cart to carry them. Carts cost less money and they weight quite a bit less, which will make it easier to maneuver in your yard.

Garden hoses come in different lengths so you need to evaluate the distance from your water spigot to the areas that you will need to be watering. You will also want to consider purchasing a hose rack or wheel to store your hose on and keep it free from kinks that can keep the water from flowing through your hose efficiently. Storing your garden hose neatly will help keep your lawn uncluttered and neat.

Landscaping tools are a great gift for yourself or for someone else. A few other tools that can be quite helpful in landscaping include water cans, lawnmowers, gloves, pole pruners, and trimmers.

You can buy landscaping tools on a budget. Much of the above listed tools can be bought for very little money, but they can make a huge impact on how your lawn will look for years to come.

Andrew Caxton is a reliable journalist who has published more articles on this issue for http://www.lawn-mowers-and-garden-tractors.com A free online magazine that carries articles on landscaping tools, and a guide on lawn care here landscaping tools

No responses yet

Nov 06 2009

Shrub Landscaping Ideas

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

If you need a low maintenance, simple border for your yard, then you may want to consider using shrubs. With very little effort, you will find that shrubs can add beauty and a touch of color to your yard and home. You will find a great variety in shrubs to allow you to find the one that best fits your lawn and your landscaping design.

Different Types of Shrubs
There is a great variety of shrubs that you can use in your landscaping design. These shrubs help give your lawn color and texture to help make it more visually attractive. Some common shrubs include dogwood, azalea, lilac, hardy shrub rose, and hydrangea. A border with colorful shrubs will make a beautiful focal point around your home or walkway. The landscaping shrubs can also help to add height to your garden and lawn.

A Great Border
A beautiful border will consist of many different layers of colors, height, and textures. It does not matter what shrub that you choose, it will add color and texture to your lawn and landscape. Keeping your shrubs trimmed is essential to help keep them at a manageable level and allow them to show their natural beauty and style.

Shrubs can also be used to line your property line between you and your neighbors. They will make a border without closing in the space as trees do. They are a great choice for this particular purpose that you and your neighbors will appreciate and enjoy.

Taking Care of Your Shrubs
Good soil that drains well is essential to keep your shrubs healthy. It may be necessary to add some compost to your soil to make it healthier before you begin planting your shrubs. When you are ready to plant your shrubs, check to make sure that the roots are not root bound. If they are, you only need to loosen the roots using a knife to make them ready to plant. Make sure that your shrubs get plenty of water so that they will stay green and healthy.

Do not be concerned if your landscaping shrubs do not look filled in at first. Before you know it, the shrubs will grow and fill in those gaps. That is one of the benefits of using shrubs in landscaping. It is not necessary to plant a great deal of shrubs to cover an area. You can use smaller flowers or plants to fill in the gaps. Use your creativity to create a landscaping plan that works for you and your needs.

Andrew Caxton is a consultant who writes on many consumer topics like lawn care and http://www.lawn-mowers-and-garden-tractors.com . He provides tips and advice about lawn care as well as on the gardening shrubs at landscaping

No responses yet

Oct 08 2009

Simple Steps To Installing A Lawn Sprinkler System

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

Are you thinking about installing a lawn sprinkler system, and just not sure if you can do it? Well, you’re certainly not alone as sprinkler systems are more popular than ever these days. Regardless of whether you’re considering a Rainbird sprinkler system, Hunter sprinkler system, or any other lawn sprinkler, being able to do-it-yourself can seem like a daunting task. Here is a quick rundown on installing a lawn sprinkler system.

To get started you’re going to need to know the measurements of your yard and the area where you plan on watering. Layout where you would like to place your sprinkler heads. You’ll also want to think about where you’re going to locate the valve boxes.

Don’t think your plan needs to be drawn up like a professional landscaper would do, but you’ll want to write in as many details as you can. You’ll need to know this in order to buy your lawn sprinkler supplies. You need to know the answers to questions like; how many sprinkler heads do I need? How much pipe will I need? By sketching out a plan you’ll have the answers you need.

Next, you will need to have your utility companies come out and locate underground utility lines. I can’t stress the importance of this step enough. If you don’t do this and you dig up a line, you’re responsible for all damages that occur. It doesn’t cost a dime to have this done, and it could easily prevent you from rupturing a gas line or other utility. Be smart and have this done for you when installing a lawn sprinkler system.

Your next step after knowing where your utility lines are laid out is to begin digging for your sprinkler water lines. You can use a can of spray paint to mark out the grid system and help you know where to dig. When it comes to digging, you can either dig out the lines by hand with a shovel, or you can use a trenching machine. I don’t think I need to tell you how much hard work it will be to dig out the lines by hand. You can easily rent out a trencher at your local rental store on a per day basis. It’s relatively inexpensive, and the time and labor it will save you is well worth the extra expense. Unless you’re just wanting to get a good workout in, go the trenching route.

Once you’ve laid out the pipe you can begin connecting it all together. Attach the sprinkler heads and connect the pipe to your various valve boxes and you’re basically ready to go.

When looking at how to install a lawn sprinkler system, the biggest issues are time and patience. It will probably take the average do it yourselfer about a week to accomplish, unless you have a crew of family and friends helping you. It will also depend on your landscape. How big is your yard? What type of soil do you have? If it’s clay then things will take a little longer, especially if digging by hand.

Installing a lawn sprinkler system is not that difficult, and you’ll enjoy the results of your efforts for many years to come.

All Rights Reserved Worldwide. Reprint Rights: You may reprint this article as long as you leave all of the links active and do not edit the article in any way.

You can find much more information on Installing A Lawn Sprinkler System as well as more information on all types of sprinklers at http://www.SprinklersA-z.com

No responses yet

Aug 16 2009

Landscaping Lights Are The Right Finishing Touch

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

Throughout the years, most homeowners will surely complete alot of projects around their yard. One of these projects will inevitably involve landscaping lights as there usually is not ample lighting where you want it. They may need to light up a sidewalk or other walkway, or provide some illumination around a gazebo.

Anyone visiting a local home improvement store will notice how much of a variety of landscaping lights there are. One popular option is solar lighting as there is no need to run any electrical wires or hook anything difficult up. Another plus is they can be moved around the yard as needed, even stored inside during the harsh winter months. It is much easier to keep your lights in like new condition if they are not exposed to much bad weather.

Solar lights are a real innovative product. They have batteries in them, but these batteries are actually powered by sunlight. As they sit out during the day they will quickly become fully charged. When dusk rolls around, the sensor will trigger the light to come on. The battery will have enough juice to last the entire nite. Simply stick them into the ground where you want them and you are all set. You will enjoy lighting around your landscape that same night.

Landscaping lights not only serve a lighting purpose, they also are attractive to your yard. There is a huge assortment of styles and sizes to choose from. Depending on what other items you have in your garden or backyard, you can use these lights to draw attention to more prominent things like statues or ponds. Another great idea is to shine the light directly on an old, majestic tree at nite. Your visitors will marvel at the illumination and remark that it is definitely out of the ordinary. Another big plus with solar lights is they will turn on and off automatically, so there is no need for you to do anything other than place them where you want them.

Where you place your landscaping lights should take some thought from you, and really depend on what type of look you are trying to create with your yard. It is wise not to overdo it with lighting as the effect will become overwhelming, which also may not get you in good graces with neighbors. A subtle amount of light here and there will do the trick. For ideas you should take a look at some different landscape configurations to see what appeals to you. Local home and garden shows are wonderful for this as well, since you can ask the professionals their recommendations.

For more information on a wide variety of landscaping topics, visit http://www.easylandscapingideas.com We have many articles and helpful tips to give your backyard that professional look.

No responses yet

Aug 15 2009

Details of Water Landscapes

Published by Medesto Remodeler under Landscaping

Adding water falls or ponds to your landscape is a great way to make your yard stand head and shoulders above the rest. This has been a common way of giving landscapes a unique look for many years.

If you are looking into adding water falls or ponds to your yard, there are a couple of things that you will need to keep in mind. Even though these features are great additions to any yard, if they are not set up right you will only end up causing yourself more headaches in the end.

The first thing that you will need to do is find out which part of your yard you are going to be landscaping. Remember, after you install your water falls and ponds, you will not be able to move them; at least not easily. This means that you will want to examine your entire yard, and make sure that you are building your water features exactly where you want.

After you have found a place to add these features, you will then want to look into the actual design. This can be the most fun, but difficult step involved in the entire process. You will need to pick out a design that suits your yard. This means that if you have a smaller landscape, that you will want to pick a waterfall and pond set up that meets these needs. On the other hand, if you have a large yard, you will want to add something that does not get lost in the mix.

After the design process you will then need to make sure that you find somebody that is qualified to build, and/or set everything up. This can be easily done by finding a landscaper in your area that specializes in water features. If you are feeling brave, you may want to decide to take on the task yourself. Just remember to do all of your homework before you do this. It may sound even enough to set up water falls and ponds, but after you get into the project you may find out differently.

Also, one thing that many people forget when they are thinking about setting up water features is the maintenance that goes along with them. For every water fall and pond that you have, you will also need to be able to care for them. This entails making sure that they are cleaned out every so often. Also, if your pond is going to have fish in it you will need to learn how to properly care for them.

Overall, adding water falls and ponds to your landscape is a great way to achieve a unique look. Any owner that wants to update their yard should look into this option.

For more home landscaping designs, visit easylandscapingideas.com. You can find alot of information on a variety of topics related to transforming your yard into your dream landscape.

No responses yet

Next »