Backyard Landscape Pro

Landscaping your backyard

backyard landscape — Sat, 02 Jan 2010 23:35:59 +0000

One of life’s simple pleasures is to come home from a long day at work to your quiet backyard to relax your body and renew your spirit. It is very satisfying to look at the work you did to create a retreat from all of life’s stresses. It did not just happen, the result took planning and a lot of work to get to where it is now.

In planning stage, you look at the size of your yard, the shape of your yard and what you plan on doing with your backyard landscape. How many of the existing plants are you going to keep and are you going to be adding plants. Make decisions about any demolition in your backyard and decide if you are going to be constructing an addition to your backyard. With all of the possibilities at hand, the result has to come in on budget.

With your planning complete, getting all of the required elements together to start the actual backyard landscaping would be the next action to do. Having a ‘to do’ list would be a good organizational tool. You could even have a time line projection, but keep a large eraser handy because that time line needs to be flexible. If you’re backyard landscaping project needs large power tools such as backhoes and the like it would be best to hire outside contractors who specialize in this type of work. They can also be a source of useful information and someone to bounce ideas off of. Having a water feature in your backyard will add to the tranquility that you are trying to create, it can be a pondless waterfall or a pond for fish and aquatic plants. Remember this backyard is your get away from everything.

Landscaping your backyard is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Quick Color in the Garden

backyard landscape — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 23:49:48 +0000

by Thomas Fryd

Dutch Iris are one of the most colorful of all fall-planted bulbs. They have been propagated heavily in Oregon and Washington for the Pacific Coast market. The flower is excellent for cutting and a generous crop may be expected. The colors include white, yellow, lavender, blue and purple. The plants are fairly hardy although they require some protection if planted in a windy spot. Plant in the open sun or semi-shade with the bulbs 3 inches deep and 3 inches apart. Average garden soil will suffice and the bulbs should not be disturbed until the plants become so thick that the clumps need dividing.

Aftercare of Bulbs – Many – including gladiolus, tigridias and tuberous begonias – should be taken up now and stored for a good rest. Remember, the foliage should be thoroughly ripened before cutting off. Dust the bulbs with an insecticide to take care of any insect eggs present. Also, all bulbs and tubers should be dried off thoroughly before storing in peat. Guard against mice eating tigridias especially.

For quick color – In the mild sections of the West, snapdragons, stocks, annual chrysanthemums, larkspur, Iceland poppies, violas and pansies may still be set out, although the blooms will be later than on those set out last month. For shady spots, try cinerarias and primroses.

Wildflowers – Sow seeds after the first heavy rains. For dependable ground covers on bulb beds, sow linaria, brachycome, Gilia lutea (G. micrantha), nemophila, Virginia stock, Johnny-jump-up and other shallow-rooted annuals. These make colorful beds by themselves and are a boon both to the busy gardener pressed for time and the “lazy” gardener.

Winter pot plants – For the shaded patio use primrows, cinerarias, pansies, daffodils, browallias, reinwardtias, alocasia amazonica, beloperones, ericas, eranthemums, azaleas and camellias.

Pyracanthus and cotoneasters are the answer for time-pressed gardening enthusiasts who require colorful berries with a minimum of time spent on upkeep. Berried shrubs thrive here in the West. Although they can be planted at any season, this is a good time to select choice kinds at local nurseries, for now you can not only choose the ones with the best forms but also the proper colored berries.

About the Author:

Thomas Fryd shares his knowledge at http://www.plant-care.com. Knowledge is power – get more power and find out more about alocasia amazonica. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

Quick Color in the Garden is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Butterfly Gardening

backyard landscape — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 02:48:44 +0000

By: Pamela Kazmierczak

What is butterfly gardening? Simply put butterfly gardening is the art of growing flowers and plants that will attract these colorful and dainty creatures to your garden. Delight your family and visitors with beautiful butterflies, but be sure to create a safe habitat for them. If you own cats rethink your plans, because it would be a shame to attract these lovely insects to their death.

The design your butterfly garden is a matter of personal preference. Typical points to consider are the size of your garden and the types of flowers and plants you want to grow. Pick a style of garden that appeals to you, but ensure it also contains the plants and flowers that appeal to the butterflies you wish to attract.

It is important to find out which plants and flowers will attract the species of butterflies. That live in your area. This information can be found at the local library.

To create the kind of environment that they find attractive, you will also need water of some kind. A birdbath will look attractive and keep the butterflies up off the ground, away from stray cats or mischievous puppies. A shallow dish on a post or hung in a tree will do just as well.

When planting your butterfly garden be careful how you coordinate the colors you choose for your flowerbeds. Although butterflies do not care about your choice of color, you don’t want your garden to be a hodgepodge of unrelated colors and textures.

Butterflies are attracted to those flowers that have nectar rather than pollen, like honeysuckle, milkweed, summer lilac, Valerian, daisies, Purple Coneflower, Yellow Sage, day lilies and lavender.

Some people find it helpful to draw and color a layout of their butterfly gardening plan to see what the finished product would look like. Keep in mind that warm colors like red and orange are flashy and showy.

These colors have a greater impact against a strong green background. Cool colors such as blue and purple are soothing and toned down and would work better with a white contrast to create the look of freshness and brightness.

Article Source: http://www.uberarticles.com/articles

Pamela Kazmierczak is an expert in the wedding field. She reports on all wedding subjects including Wedding Flowers. Looking for something seasonal, check out June Wedding Flowers Now.

Butterfly Gardening is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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October Fertilizer For Great Green Summer Lawn

backyard landscape — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 21:16:11 +0000

by Marshall Clewis

October is your last chance to get your lawn in good condition for the rigors of next summer. If you haven’t already fertilized your lawn this fall, do it now, using any complete commercial fertilizer. This may be 4-12-8, 6-10-4, 4-12-4, 5-10-5, 5-10-10, or something similar. Although it can be put on without a spreader, you get a much more uniform job using one. Never forget that fertilizer does not go sideways, but straight down, so that the pinch you put on here will do that spot an inch away no good.In case you are worrying about commercial fertilizers being dangerous, forget it. If you follow the instructions on the package, using no more than three or four pounds to 100 square feet, you need not worry about any burning.

Unless there are bare spots the size of your head don’t bother to reseed. With the cool weather and, we hope, fall rains the desirable grasses will grow out and fill in the bare spots.

Fall is the ideal time for the good grasses to fill in the gaps so that there is that much less chance for crabgrass to get started next spring. Any of the many brands of weed killers will get rid of broadleaf lawn weeds such as plantain, buckhorn, dandelion, ground ivy and other kinds of ivy, and many others. If you are spraying it is necessary to do a thorough job of wetting the foliage to get adequate control. Whether spraying or putting it on dry, be sure there is no wind or the plants in the neighboring beds will get the typical weed killing heebygeebys. The leaves will be twisted and twirled so that they worry you even if the plants are not killed.

Check your flower beds and shrub plantings for all the volunteer tree and shrub seedlings, and tag them for digging later on this fall when you have more time.

About the Author:

Unwrap more on the topic of kinds of ivy today!

October Fertilizer For Great Green Summer Lawn is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Materials, Means, Methods, and Background – 4 Factors For Successful Gardens

backyard landscape — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 22:40:59 +0000

by Marshall Clewis

The smallest garden, no less than the elaborate estate, represents the results of the combination of four basic factors. They are: (1) the materials of gardening; (2) the means; (3) the methods; and (4) the background. These four factors, as well as the all-important human element.

Materials – These are, first of all, the plants that make gardens; and, second, the soil in which they grow. In the plant articles, the objective has been to describe each subject, then to give simple cultural directions, and finally to list and describe briefly the more important and promising kinds available and especially suitable in gardens.

When looking for any plant (or a genus) always look for the correct botanical name. Sometimes botanical and common names are the same, as Chrysanthemum or Zinnia. Sometimes a plant has a botanical name and also two or more common names.

Means to Gardening are the implements, accessories and aids with which plants are grown and gardens are made and cared for: tools, fertilizers, spray materials, hotbeds in fact, all objects that are neither plants nor parts of the soil. All these subjects should be studied in connection with the cultural notes on the various plants, and other articles covering the plant care factors.

Methods, which include all details of design and planning; construction and planting; and maintenance, or culture and protection. To get the most out of this information, you may have to consult several items in order to gain complete understanding of a certain subject just like caring african violet. For information on pruning a rosebush of about african violet, for example, consult not only the directions under rose, but also separate articles on pruning, shrubs, shears, etc., as well as the Garden Know-How articles. This is especially true in the case of plant enemies and their control.

Background is, of course, what all gardens furnish for the lives of those who live in them or view them. But we mean the relation of individual plants and gardens to one another, and to things outside them. It includes elementary facts about the natural sciences which underlie plant growth; it touches theories and principles, and the agencies and institutions from or through which gardeners can obtain information and help. It is that which gives to garden work a larger outlook, a broader horizon, more vision than are associated with mere manual labor.

About the Author:

More knowledge, more power, more success when you better understand the techniques on african violet care. Drop by today at http://www.zone10.com/african-violet-care.html. Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service

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How can I determine how much dirt I need to landscape my backyard?

backyard landscape — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 02:46:59 +0000

The ground is almost solid rock, so I need to put some type of sandy loam or top soil on it. I want to order this but I do not know how to figure how much I would need to buy.
I would also suggest going to a local garden center and looking at the different ammendments and soil mixes they sell there. I agree with the tape measurement of the yard. The bags tell you how much to buy and what they cover. I would also get the soil wet to see how dense it really is. You might even take a sample with you to the store.

How can I determine how much dirt I need to landscape my backyard? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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I would like to some ideas on landscaping my backyard in a southwestern landscape?

backyard landscape — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 02:45:59 +0000

Iwould also like some plant and flower ideas; I live in the north
Check the yellow pages under “Landscape Architect.” They are experts in design, and know which plants will be suitable for your particular area. A Concept Plan isn’t too expensive, and should include a general design layout and a list of plants to use for different situations. Unfortunately I’m probably not licensed in your State. I have done a lot of work in the Las Vegas area woking with someone who was licensed in Nevada, so am quite experienced in that style of design and won a couple of awards on projects I’ve worked on down there. I use a similar design here, which is probably a similar climate to where you are. Click on my profile and e-mail me and give me the specifics on where you are, I may be able to recommend someone in your area.

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Phoenix Swimming Pools and Spas – Arizona

backyard landscape — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 05:53:54 +0000

An Arizona Pool & Landscape Company – Unique Landscapes & Unique Custom Pools presents some incredible video of all of our swimming pool and spa projects in Phoenix & Scottsdale Arizona. Check out how we incorporate our Phoenix landscaping & landscape design with our swimming pools and spas – making it great for ONE COMPANY to design and install your next project www.unique-landscapes.com 480.969.1911 for your design consultation

Duration : 0:1:36

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solar water fountains?

backyard landscape — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 23:05:47 +0000

Does anyone know where I can find a reliable solar water fountain, or how I can change an existing water fountain to a solar one?

I don’t know about specific manufactures or dealers but it is recommended to check if the place you wish to place it is suitable.

"When checking if a certain garden is suitable for solar powered water fountain, there are two aspects that will determine if a garden is suitable. The first aspect is pretty obvious, the weather conditions and level of sun exposure……… The other aspect is the landscaping of the garden, particularly surrounding the solar water fountain…"
This was taken from http://www.onlinesolarpanels.com/solar-garden-fountains.php

solar water fountains? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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What should I do to prepare my vegetable garden for planting?

backyard landscape — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:58:00 +0000

I am new to this gardening thing and I want to have a vegetable garden so that we have vegetables and fruit from early summer through late fall. I know that each vegetable has it’s own PH requirements. How do I prep the soil for all the things I’m wanting to plant? Is there a fertilizer that I should use that would be good for a wide range of veggies? I live in northern Ohio. When should I start prepping the soil? When should I plant? Should I plant a second time during the season to ensure that I have veggies into the fall? What should I plant? The area I want to plant is roughly 15 X 20 ft.
We live in an area of northern Ohio that has extremely fertile farm. The soil is dark brown/black and not very much if any clay. We have high sulphur in our water so I’m assuming that the ground has a high sulphur content as well.

you can get some really good gardening info from: ohio state university.. they have a very good website for gardening info… as well as your county agriculture extention agency… check ohio government to find the web address… when i’m starting a new garden area I : cut sod out, till soil, add ammendments (compost, leaves, organic matter), and continue to add leaves and grass clippings every fall
vege gardening is a lot less complicated than it first appears from all the horticulture info
you can also visit my past answers for more info on improving soil conditions.
Happy Gardening!

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landscaping ideas?

backyard landscape — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:48:32 +0000

I want to landscape my front yard. I don’t want to spend a lot of money though. Does anyone have any suggestions for inexpensive plants? I live in Tennessee and it is hot in the summer. My front yard gets morning sun and shade by afternoon. Thanks for any help.

hey a fellow Tennessean! i live toward Bristol myself, i also do lawn and bushes during the summer. so here is my 2 cents worth. Ive noticed allot of holly bushes around here, a very hearty group and they stay green all year. azeala(spelling) bushes are very popular as well.these flower nicely in the spring. hostas are flowers you only have to plant once! they love it down here! just make sure when planting bushes to allow for room to grow ! some bushes get big! leave yourself a minimum of 5 feet between the house and a newly planted bush! good luck oh yea…… use some really thick plastic and 3 or 4 inches of mulch to keep your weeds down and plants moist during the dog days!

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Landscaping in shade around a swimming pool? Any ideas?!?

backyard landscape — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:44:59 +0000

i live in north carolina and my backyard has a lot of trees so the sun hits only certain spots throughout the day. i want pretty and colorful flowers, plants, shrubs etc… and if possiblee for a low budget!! any ideas are helpful!!! THANKS
There are many plants for shade, but you may not get the same bold color as you will with sun plants. Try these ideas, then fill in with annuals, such as impatients. The best bet for shade are daylilies — buy ones that bloom at different times to get continual color, hydrangea (but dont put them too close to tree roots), hostas (not much color in flowers, however) Also, look for shade plants with unique leaves (hellaborus, cora bells). Also, many ground cover flower in the spring and can handle the areas under trees: http://www.oldhouseweb.com/gardening/filling-bald-spots-in-your-garden.shtml Try local http://www.craigslist.com for people who want to swap plants or are giving them away.

Landscaping in shade around a swimming pool? Any ideas?!? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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What is best way to landscape a backyard bank?

backyard landscape — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:33:59 +0000

What is best way to landscape a backyard bank @ a 60 degree angle?

I already have ivy jacobs ladder ferns campenella(sp) dwarf grass day lilly i need help with organizing it.
I always tell people to use their imaginations and to do things the way they like them. However, you will probably want to place shorter plants at the bottom of the bank and progress up the bank with taller plants. Taller plants at the bottom of bank would probably hide smaller plants unless they are spaced far enough apart so that they are not hidden. It has been my personal experience, though, that if you have ivy planted anywhere, it will eventually take over and cover and crowd out everything else unless you keep it pulled out and contained in one area. Ivy can become very invasive and sometimes be considered a weed when it begins to take over and damage anything else you plant and like. Good luck and enjoy.

What is best way to landscape a backyard bank? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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I need to buy a submersible water pump for a pondless waterfall.

backyard landscape — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:33:59 +0000

How large of a pump should I buy?

There is 18 to 20 ft of head pressure and I want to pump about 1200 gallons per hour.
There are several website that where you can buy a pump. I suggest you try one of these. http://www.watergarden.com/ http://www.pondliner.com http://www.thepondguy.com Buy a mag-drive pump, they are usually the best choice. These sites also sell weir boxes that help provide a smooth flow of water at the start of the water fall and are rated for various flow rates. This way if you have an idea how wide you want the fall to be, you can control it by the weir box you purchase.

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Is it a good idea to build decking on top of pallets?

backyard landscape — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 22:29:59 +0000

I want to put decking on my well drained 14 m2 enclosed patio. 4×2 joists would cost a fortune, so do you think it would be a good idea to use pallets as a base?
If you have ever tried to dismantle a pallet you will know how well the are made, if you get pallets in good condition, and you can get amost new pallets quite cheap there is no reason why they can’t be be used under decking but you MUST make sure the are based on a damp prevetion barrier, the best way to achieve this is to put bricks under the pallets and ordniary roof slates between the pallets and the bricks, roof slates are one of the best damp proof barriers there is, make sure that no part of the pallets are in contact with the ground, or will be in the future, and as a precaution treat the wood with a good preservative. They might not last forever but the will last a very long time.

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Pool Decking Ideas

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:08:59 +0000

http://www.concretenetwork.com Get ideas on selecting the right pool decking for your home. Visit several backyard pool decks to see why designer Scott Cohen chose concrete for the decking material.

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Hidden No Longer-DIY

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:44:55 +0000

No longer hidden by trees, a rebuilt house gets a brand-new front yard. This video is part of King of Dirt show hosted by Gino Panaro . SHOW DESCRIPTION :Gino Panaro is DIY Network’s King of Dirt. He’s definitely not what you’d expect from one of America’s premier landscape contractors. He’s a loud, bull-in-a-china-shop, Brooklyn-born guy who happens to create incredible beauty. For his landscape designs, Gino doesn’t use a computer or fake graphic technology. Instead, he relies on his imagination, his hands and the help of his brother Ralph, who works with him in a family landscape business to create some of the most beautiful, high-end landscapes and hardscapes you’ll ever see. Together they star in DIY Network’s new series, King of Dirt, full of big personalities and even bigger insider ideas on how to make over outdoor spaces.

Duration : 0:3:8

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Landscaping video

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:43:41 +0000

Seven different landscape samples with different styles. Waterfalls, Koi ponds, garden styles, flowers and trees are shown with background music.

Duration : 0:10:48

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What plants in a vegetable garden need to planted together?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:38:59 +0000

What plants in a vegetable garden need to planted next to each other in order to thrive? I was given a plot layout years ago for a vegetable garden but of course I’ve missed placed it. I remember being told that you can’t plant potatoes and onions together. Now I’m worried that I’m going to fail before I even really begin.
just don’t plant potatoes and onions together. Otherwise, just try to group plants together that grow similarly. Tomatoes and squash grow about the same, and beans and corn will grow in the same of conditions. As long as you aren’t crowding drastically different species together, you’ll do just fine. Ideally, melons, squash, beans, should be in the same part of the garden. Greens, lettuce, turnips, brussel sprouts, beets, cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower can be close to each other. Potatoes can have their own individual section as can onions.

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Gardening Flowers & Vegetables : Layouts For Small Vegetable Gardens

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 22:36:59 +0000

When laying out a small vegetable garden, plant the largest vegetables in the center of the garden, add smaller vegetables around the perimeter, and only plant vegetables that will be eaten regularly. Grow vegetables in a small space or even on a balcony with information from a sustainable gardener in this free video on gardening.

Duration : 0:1:53

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Replacement pump for Solar Cascade Terracotta Water Feature?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:55:38 +0000

I have lost the magnet from the pump of a Solar Cascade Terracotta water feature. Does anyone know where I can buy either a replacement magnet or a replacement pump for this water feature?

Many Thanks

Festivalperseon

Please note that at this time, the manufacturer of this fountain is NOT offering replacement pumps or solar panels sold separately.

http://www.specialtyliving.com/products/cascade-solar-fountain

Hopefully you can find a used one someplace…Good Luck

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I have a solar powered water feature…?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:55:37 +0000

with no fish in it.
What can I put into it to stop the water from going green and manky.
Someone suggested Milton sterilising fluid but what else would work. I live in the UK so please can you name brands so I can find them easily.
Many thanks.

Go to any garden centre and they will help you out.

I have a solar powered water feature…? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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pondless streams?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:44:19 +0000

Anyone have a pondless stream/ waterfall? How deep should I make it? Thinking of making one this spring. Any tips, ideas, websites? Thanks

I use Filterific. They have an excellent brochure. It will help calculate how many gallons of water by the width, length desired depth.The brochure has a lot of pictures and diagrams to help visualize your project. It is a little on the expensive side. I use a septic tank for anything that is over 250 gallons because of expense. I found filterific at Ewing irrigation and had some what knowledgeable staff. Pond less is the best way to go especially if you have small kids. Often this time of year there are home and garden shows that also can give you more ideas.

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Where can I go online to get free design ideas for outdoor stairs?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:34:59 +0000

We are taking down an old deck and wanting to just put in stairs. I can’t find anything. All I seem to be finding is deck ideas. I would like to be able to design it myself so a CAD program would be great! I would appreciate any help.
Building the stairs isn’t that difficult IF you have carpentry skills, are able to calculate and have patience…not usually something for a typical diyer without understanding the components, especially if you have a long run. You need to have a landing so the basic deck frame is a good place to look for structure. If you want a short run, the first link will show you what that will look like – for a longer run, you need longer stringers…basically a fairly fast moving slide show – good for visual aid, has dimensions and can be replayed. Second link is more of a how to with no pictures, the steps being the last part discussed. Third link is there for you to familiarize yourself with staircase lingo – will help give you a better understanding for what you’re undertaking. Forth link is a stair stringer design calculator. Before you start, check to see if you need a permit for your area – and – if you need to have cement footings for the stringers. Better to be safe than sorry! Once the plan is underway, be certain that the ground is level – both for the frame and the stringers when those are attached. I hope this helps you – best of luck!

Where can I go online to get free design ideas for outdoor stairs? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Garden ideas for my new yard?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:30:58 +0000

I just moved to Louisiana, zone 8b. My fiance and I bought a house that has just been built and is in desperate need of gardening and landscaping. I’m a beginner and need some easy, pretty, layout ideas. What are some websites and/or books that would help a beginner like me in this particular area? For example, I heard there are TWO growing seasons. Okay, I’m from northern Indiana, and we barely had one full growing season! Heh! What is the second growing season for? I also want to have a vegetable garden. Can anyone offer me any advice?? Thanks!!

Contact your local County Extention Agency and ask about the local Master Gardening club. They can tell you what works best for where you live, from what varieties to plant to the best time- and location- to plant, prune etc. They can also offer book titles, websites, the best nurseries etc. If no MG club, the agent should be able to point you in the right direction. By the way, the second growing season is to grow a second crop. It’s wonderful to live in Southern USA!

Garden ideas for my new yard? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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landscaping front yard?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:27:38 +0000

my hubby and i bought a new house last august. we want to start to landscape our front yard. we have one of those power boxes near the side of your yard. does anyone have any ideas of how to ‘hide’ this box from the street- to make the yard look nice. i was thinking if maybe a trellace or putting some nice waggon wheels near it…but we have to make sure that tht box is still accessible.
green grove- is there anyway you can post a picture of it so i can see.. i’m really bad at comming up with stuff and that sounds really neat =)

We had to do the same exact thing, and I went with a couple of ornamental grasses in front and on the sides, and irises in between. It looks really nice GL!!!

landscaping front yard? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Where can I find front yard landscape/walk way ideas?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:27:36 +0000

I want to redo my front lawn and maybe build a walk way of some sort…where can i get ideas from?

Go to a place like Lowe’s–they have racks of books like these with color photos and diagrams and some very detailed directions. You can also go to a nursery or landscape place for ideas. The people there are very helpful. You might want to try this first: drive through some of the neighborhoods in your area (especially where you’d like to live) to get ideas.

[EDIT] I’m in the middle of doing this. Once I got several ideas I used colored pencils and graph paper to map out my thoughts. I realized I needed prices so that was the first step. You might want to do the walkway first if you’re using slabs of stone which can get pricey. Plus, unless you can get the sand for underneath and spread it by yourself, you’ll need to hire someone. Flowers and trees could come next year. Hint: in the fall nurseries reduce prices on annuals, bushes, shrubs, trees and bulbs–great time to buy. I found nurseries are better than catalogs because the nursery’s plants are grown for your climate and water conditions.

[EDIT] BE aware your garden areas won’t begin to look like the pictures–they remove the old plants and literally cram in new plants fresh from the nursery when they’re doing a photo shoot. That’s why all the photos look so great. Be aware certain magazines cater to the West Coast which may not be suitable for plants in your area.

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Where can I purchase a small solar powered water pump?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:22:59 +0000

This is for a small garden pond I’m making. I’m also thinking about using a very large tuscany plant pot for a water feature. Need find a reasonable priced solar water pump somewhere. Thanks….
http://www.siliconsolar.com/solar-fountain-pumps.php

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Any suggestions on how I can landscape my backyard?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:17:30 +0000

My hubby sprayed our lawn with weed killer last summer, but he got the kind that also killed the grass. I know nothing about landscaping and need advise and instruction on what to do about getting the grass to grow again. PLEASE HELP! :\

Thanks in advance for any and all advise. I have no idea what to do or where to begin. I can’t afford to get a landscaper to do the job.xxx
Oh yes! The grass totally died. lol

Hey Moonsocket,

The herbacides that are used to kill grass for residential use are usually the type that get on the green leaves, and cause the plant to choke out. Once the herbacide hits the dirt, it becomes ineffective.

So, you should be able to scratch the surface of your dirt, spread some lawn seed (the type depends on your location and preference). Rake it in again, to slightly cover it, then water each day, for about 14 to 21 days. That should produce a new lawn.

Best of luck. If you name the herbacide that he used, it could be checked to see if what I said is true.

Any suggestions on how I can landscape my backyard? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Tropical Backyard Landscape?

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:15:04 +0000

I live in Northern Ca (Sacramento Area) and I am planning a tropical themed backyard. It rarely gets below 30 degrees in the winter (maybe a little lower at night, but i can get those blankets to prevent the plant from freezing) and at its hottest point it gets up to 115 degrees in the summer.

With that being said, which plants would do the best in my area? Ideas in flowers, ground cover, and any other suggestions or help would be great! Thanks in advance
Are there any sites online where it shows which tropical plants survive in this area?

I have tropical plants around my pool area and love the look.
Yucca plants are so easy to grow and look great.
Umbrella plant also looks tropical and is very easy to grow.
I also have: both red and yellow cannas, bird of paradise, and saga palms.
Oh yes, Hibiscus. I have 4 different colors of those.

Tropical Backyard Landscape? is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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How to Transform Your Backyard into A Secret Garden

backyard landscape — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 02:35:34 +0000

A backyard retreat four years in the making.
Four long summers of blood, sweat and fun.

Duration : 0:7:29

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We started thinking about our backyard landscape

backyard landscape — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:47:59 +0000

When we started thinking about our backyard landscape and how we wanted it to look, we had a few things in mind. We wanted it to be pretty, functional, and kid friendly. We had and existing cement patio but wanted a bigger space to entertain so we framed around it, built the area up with dirt and gravel and then put paving stones on top. It is a functional and inexpensive way to get more space.

The kids…we bought a huge play structure for our kids and we wanted a place for that to stand that would be out of the way but safe. We put the structure together, put down weed block and playground bark so it would be soft on their feet and have no maintenance. As our children grow they come up with their own games and things to do that involve the structure in different ways.

We have always wanted a garden where we could grow fresh fruit and vegetables so we built a raised bed and surrounded it with railroad ties for a clean garden area. We ran a drip line through it so it gets watered when the grass gets watered. We have grown pumpkins, strawberries, squash, tomatoes and peppers for the past few years. Our kids love to help and watch everything grow. They have been very involved with planting, harvesting and of course eating what has grown. It has also been very educational for them to learn how to plant and take care of the garden.

The rest of the backyard landscape is grass with a border of rock and plants around most of the fence area. We have planted a variety of different types of plants and bushes along with flowers. We stick to mostly perennials so we don’t have to replant every year. We like our backyard and it’s a nice place to spend time with the family.

Other Recommended Reading

Add an Outdoor Shower to Your Backyard Landscape | Dream Retreats … – Series Part 5: Outdoor Shower You’d expect to find an outdoor shower at a suite at a lush Caribbean resort, but in your own home? Why not? That’s what more and.
Backyard Landscape Designs – Don’t simply formulate your plan in your mind however, draw a sketch of your backyard landscape, or invest in a computer program that will allow you to create a backyard landscape designs similar to what professional landscape …
Backyard Landscape With Roman Pavers – Pt 1 – So it is time to spend are hard earned money friends. We are landscaping the backyard with Roman Pavers with the help our friend and expert John Smitherman from JWS Construction in Calgary, Alberta. …
Backyard Landscape With Roman Pavers – Pt 2 – So this is the second day of the project. Yesterday John designed the plan for landscaping our backyard with Roman Pavers. He outlined the path, the patio, and the fire pit with blue spray paint. Asked John if he would mind doing the …
Backyard Landscape with Roman Pavers Pt 3 – Onward and upward with more video and more pictures on the Roman Paving job we’re getting done by John Smitherman at JWS Construction in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. See previous series… As I’ve mentioned in the other posts on this Roman …

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Some Fun Ideas for Front Yard Landscaping

backyard landscape — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:39:59 +0000

There is so much you can do with the lawn in front of your house and I’m sure you have a lot of front yard landscaping ideas. Depending on your budget, you can do something as small as planting flower seeds to add a splash of color along your sidewalk, around your front door, or along the whole front of the house. Or, you can do something elaborate including adding new shrubbery, a fountain, or even a new tree.

If you are going with the flower idea, here are a couple of things to consider. What kind of flowers do you want? There are flowers that bloom early, mid, and late summer. Some blooms only last a couple of weeks. So, when choosing flowers, a good idea is to get a variety of flowers that will bloom at different times of the year to give you a full range of colors all the time.

Are you going to put mulch down around the flowers? Some mulch will attract bugs, so be careful of exactly what kind you pick. Will you be adding a border around the flowers? Borders can be anywhere from stones to miniature fences to multiple colored stones.

Now, if you have a larger budget and want to go a more elaborate route, there are many options along that path also. Fountains add elegance to a home that is hard to beat. But, do you have room for such a thing? And, is it a powered fountain? Are you going to heat it through the winter so that it does not freeze over? Another thing to consider is adding shrubbery along with flowers. Shrubs can range from small and shapely to something that can outgrow your yard within a couple of years. Shrubs definitely need a little more upkeep than just planting and letting them do their thing.

Lastly, planting saplings that will later grow into large trees is an idea to consider. Although you need to make sure that it is not too close to the road where it will grow into the power lines. Whether you decide to go simple or elaborate, your front yard landscaping ideas will make your house a lot nicer to look at. It can also add a significant amount of value to your home. Each of these things is something to look into before you take the project of landscaping your own lawn.

More good Reads

Target Articles » Blog Archive » Front Yard Landscaping Ideas That … – You have either decided to sell your home or you want to make it look its best so all that see it have to stop and take a second look. How do you give the best impression with your home? What do people see first? The curb, so the answer is to add curb appeal. The appearance from the curb has to be both beautiful and inviting.
Front Yard Landscaping – Foundation Planting Ideas | Design And … – Site which offers free landscaping ideas to do it yourselfers. For more front yard landscaping ideas, visit his site at http://www.the-landscape-design-site.com. Article Directory: Article Dashboard http://www.articledashboard.com.

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…BRING YOUR BACKYARD TO LIFE

backyard landscape — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:03:59 +0000

There are so many choices for backyard landscape. You’ll want to have an idea or plan before you visit the nursery. Your backyard is your private relaxing getaway, your entertaining area and where you enjoy family time.

What type of design fits your life style? Do you want flowers, vegetables or maybe just green plants and trees? How about lighting and decorative pathways? Building a deck or patio might be on your agenda. Maybe you have a pool and would like to do some swimming pool landscaping.

The possibilities are endless with backyard landscape. Backyard Landscape Pro will provide you with great tips, designs and do it yourself projects.

Here is an article you may find interesting.

Native Landscaping for Wildlife and People – A reporter recently told me that the word “landscaping” appeals more to people today than “gardening” because it sounds like less work. I doubt that was on author Dave Tylka’s mind when he wrote the book “Native Landscaping for Wildlife …

…BRING YOUR BACKYARD TO LIFE is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Beautiful Backyard Desert Landscape

backyard landscape — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 22:32:17 +0000

Desert landscape ideas you never thought of.

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Better Lawns are Autumn Sponsored

backyard landscape — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 01:25:59 +0000

Nice article to kick off the fall season.

Better Lawns are Autumn Sponsored

via Plant-Care.com by admin on 7/31/09

Crisp blue skies and coloring sumac spell many things… the heady aroma of evening outdoor fire pit, football around the corner, and glorious less encumbered weekends to putter outdoors. For the Midwest, gardening mostly under a continental climate of hot dry summers, this is above all else lawning season. From August in the north and [...]

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Grow Your Own Pansies | Plant-Care.com

backyard landscape — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:58:05 +0000

Here is a good article if you are interested in growing your own pansies for the fall.

http://www.plant-care.com/grow-your-own-pansies.html

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Better Lawns are Autumn Sponsored Nice article to kick off the fall season. ...

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Decking Ideas: Deck Construction Supplies and Tools

backyard landscape — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 22:19:59 +0000

So you’ve become interested in deck construction, but you’re not clear on how to build a deck? You’ve seen hundreds of examples of decking ideas and designs on other people’s landscapes. You like the idea that building a deck will mean having an attractive “outdoor living space” at your disposal. Problem is, you don’t know where to begin, you say? Your do-it-yourself carpentry skills are basic at best, and the prospect of deck design and construction from scratch is rather daunting? Well, you’ve come to the right place. This article is meant to serve as a springboard for those interested in building decks, who seek information geared for the beginner. This article should provide novices with enough information to get them started with supplies and tools.

I’ll focus on the essential steps in deck building, with emphasis on the initial steps that get the project off on sound footing. Space does not permit treatment of the finishing touches, such as railings and deck sealers. My goal is simply to furnish you with a solid foundation – both literally and figuratively. Once beginners get started on a project as complex as this one, one of their most obvious needs will be to ask questions. An opportunity to do so will arise when they shop for lumber and other supplies for the deck project at a hardware store. The hardware store can be a great source of free information. But to ask intelligent questions, you need some knowledge of the subject already, including knowledge of the terminology used to discuss the various aspects of it. You also need an introduction to some basic problem solving in deck construction. Think about the freestanding deck as an alternative to the type that gets secured directly to a house. Why? Because although you can still place a freestanding deck adjacent to a house, a freestanding deck obviates a problem for the non-carpenter: namely, it avoids having to remove siding from your house (a scary thought for most of us). You need to be made aware of such challenges that await you in your initial foray into deck construction. Once you become aware of the problems – and mull over some suggestions as to how to solve them – you’ll be brimming with astute questions when you walk into the hardware store.

Speaking of the hardware store, some of the supplies you’ll need for your decking ideas are likely to include the following: Flashing Caulking compound, Pre-mixed concrete, Gravel or crushed stone, Cinder blocks, Post caps, Post bases, Seismic ties, Joist hangers, Cardboard tube, concrete forms, and Rebar. If you must use nails, use stainless steel or HDG nails (either ring-shank nails or spiral-groove, for better holding power). But it is preferable to use deck screws, Joist hanger nails, HDG bolts, or lag screws and washers.

The following are some of the tools you may need for this deck project: Shovel, Carpenter’s level, Carpenter’s square, Plumb bob, Wheelbarrow (for mixing concrete), Caulking gun, Drill Wrench (to tighten lag screws), Hammer, Circular saw, Tape measure, Safety eyewear, and Scrap lumber for bracing.

Decking Ideas: Deck Construction Supplies and Tools is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Raised Bed Vegetable Garden

backyard landscape — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 22:24:59 +0000

For a long time I had not planned to create a home garden in the backyard to my house. Just now I have started a home vegetable garden to produce vegetables that will meet my day to day vegetable needs. I have taken a little time to plan a layout for my home vegetable garden. First I have selected a place for my vegetable garden layout that will absorb sunlight directly. The sunlight is very essential for plants to prepare food for themselves with the help of water and air. I avoided shady areas which are not eligible for planting saplings.

I prepared the soil as per requirements for variety of vegetables. At first I planted the seeds in the open soil, but the yield was not to my expectation. Hence I changed my plan. Then I created raised beds of soil. This helps to hold the moisture for long time. I harvested more vegetables than the open soil method. I have created the raised bed vegetable garden by putting soil in a wooden container which is in a rectangular shape and is 3 feet wide. I created the vegetable garden layout in such a way to go and come easily into the garden.

Next thing is to pick up good seeds to plant. The seeds should be clean and should be disease resistant varieties. I prepared the soil finely to sow the seeds and provide enough sunlight, so that the sapling comes out of the seeds. I have planted different kinds of vegetables to meet my family requirements. I sowed beans, eggplant, tomato, pumpkins, drumstick, chilies, etc… I watered each of the plants as per requirements for each kind. Then I could harvest the vegetables daily from my home garden. The gardening helps me to save a little money and get some light exercise too.

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Japanese Garden Ideas

backyard landscape — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 19:42:59 +0000

When it comes to front yard landscaping ideas, there are many ways you can set up your front yard to attract the eye and have curb appeal. Anywhere from Victorian gardens to butterfly gardens. The most beautiful I have ever seen however, is the Japanese garden. With its vast array of colors and designs, it’s sure to please you and the citizens walking by.

Some of the main trees you will see in a traditional Japanese garden are trees like the Japanese red maple and the very pleasing scent of the Japanese double flower cherry tree. For flowers in a Japanese garden you usually have four different kinds of flowers, different in height, that all bloom at different times. By doing this it keeps your garden always lively and beautiful with an explosion of color. These are just a few of the reasons why a Japanese garden may suite your front lawn. With all the beauty and fresh scents, your front lawn will be where you’ll always want to be.

Japanese Garden Ideas is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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Swimming Pool Landscaping and Design Ideas for Your Backyard

backyard landscape — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:38:59 +0000

It’s Hot! It’s Summer Time! It’s a great time to jump into the cool pool in your backyard and relax on your raft a while. Let go of the stress and the day to day routine. There is nothing better than having your own little get a way conveniently located in your own backyard.

Your get a way can be anything you want with all of the new swimming pool landscaping ideas and products available. There is something available for all plans, ideas and budgets. What are you waiting for? Get started on your backyard get a way. The sooner you start, the sooner you enjoy and you’ll be so glad you did it.

To get started, you need a design and a plan. Draw it out and make sure everything blends well. Do you need a play area for children? Do you like to use your backyard for entertaining? Do you have outdoor pets? Will this just be your private get a way? Will you be incorporating a theme? Think about your options and what you really want out of your space and get started on your dream backyard. If your dream is really big, make your swimming pool landscaping plans into different stages. This way, you don’t stress yourself out and you won’t stress your pocket book either.

There are many pool decking materials available. You can choose from beautiful wood materials or a huge selection of stone and brick. If you have concrete around your existing pool, try painting the concrete to give the area a visual lift. Home owners are getting very creative these days.

You should think about adding some big, lush green plants around the pool deck to soften the look and add a little privacy. Every design needs some color and beauty added to the backyard landscape too. You may also want to make sure you have provided a shady spot somewhere in the design. It could be a covered patio, a nice tree, or a patio umbrella.

For your swimming pool, water features are a nice addition. They offer the relaxing sound of falling water and they come in many different designs to choose from. There are lighted ones for the evening and they come in multiple colors. The water dances and changes colors. It’s really pretty in the evening when you are outdoors relaxing, grilling or swimming.

Speaking of lights, don’t forget your landscape lighting. Choose some different types of lighting for your flower beds, walkways, and trees. There are a lot of solar choices with a wide variety of designs. You can easily find something to suite you and solar is easy to install too. You can also add some tiki torches around the backyard. They bring a tropical and romantic feel to the area. It is very relaxing too.

Last, you should pick up a few design elements to place in your design. Choose some things for your garden areas or some decor to go with your theme if you have one. Just add some little touches to bring it all together. For some bigger touches, I’ve noticed several waterfalls, ponds and fountains and more and more people are creating outdoor kitchens, fire places, and living spaces. Swimming pool landscaping is also starting to include more cabanas and pool houses. Some are small, just for changing clothes and others are big enough for entertaining family and friends. It’s all up to you and the design you’ve chosen. Really try to make it what you want and have fun designing your dream backyard get a way.

Swimming Pool Landscaping and Design Ideas for Your Backyard is a post from: Backyard Landscape Pro

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