Landscaping & Outdoor Building

The pH level in pond water fluctuates due to the activities of the aquatic plants and pond algae. It is important to maintain the appropriate pH levels in the pond for the survival of the plants...

The pH level in a swimming pool is the measurement of acid in your pool. Swimming pool pH levels are measured on a scale from 0 to 14, with 0 indicating a strong acid base and 14 indicating a...

It is not only convenient to purchase swimming pool chemicals at the grocery store, but it also can be cost efficient. Bleach is a chlorine source and can replace calcium hypochlorite tabs. Bleach...

Starting a swimming pool pump after the winter months may take a little priming. Before you begin to reassemble your pool, sweep or hose all debris and dirt from the cover and the deck. Turn the...

Algae growth in pools is common if the pH is not kept in check, if the pool is not cleaned properly, or after heavy rainfall. There are many common effects of this algae: green water, murkiness,...

Keeping the pH of your hot tub at the appropriate level is a necessary part of spa maintenance. A pH that is too high will result in the formation of white scaling along the walls of the tub....

Liquid chlorine is used in pools as a disinfectant. Its ability to kill off any bacteria as well as algae organisms that threaten to turn water green makes it an important part of weekly pool...

When you have compost with lime it means that the acidity of the compost was too high. It possibly had a high content of pine needles and lime was added to raise the PH of the soil. A compost lime...

A natural pond can be extremely beautiful, but it can also be a huge mess if not taken care of. Proper maintenance of a natural pond is essential for the beauty and health of the pond, the plants...

Whether you are dealing with a pond that is a main feature in your landscape, or just a farm pond out in a field, monitoring water quality can have a huge effect on the ability of the water to...

The silk tree, also called the mimosa tree, is named for its silky leaves and stringy flowers. The tree originated in Asia but can easily grow in the United States. It prefers hot weather but is...

Algae invades pools quietly and quickly, most commonly during the hottest days of the year, making your pool unusable when you most need it. The key is to prevent algae by monitoring your pool's...

Angel Wing begonia (Corallina de lucerna) is primarily grown for its elegant foliage. Unlike many begonias, this particular variety needs plenty of bright but indirect light to thrive. The key to...

Before you plant a tree, consider many factors, such as the spot the tree sits on and how close it is to a building. An important item that most forget is the soil. Knowledge of the soil type is...

If you are looking for a way to relax and unwind after a long day at work, an Emerald Spa may be the answer. A well-maintained spa can provide relaxation and comfort for many years. But when that...

Keeping a swimming pool at your home provides hours of outdoor fun and entertainment for your family and friends, but can be unhealthy or dangerous if you don't maintain the pool. You have to keep...

A pH test is a simple way to test the chlorine and acidity of your swimming pool. These test kits often come with the necessary chemicals to test for pH, total alkalinity and calcium hardness....

When you have a vinyl liner pool, you need to take the correct actions to winterize and close the pool so that you don't damage the pool pump, filtering system and vinyl liner. The cold hard...

Algae control in pools is important if you are going to have a pool that you can use anytime that you want. Keeping the pool clean can prevent algae, but sometimes the hot sun and rainstorms can...

The water in a swimming pool is to be maintained at a certain pH level. The pH determines the acidity or alkalinity of pool water. A pH of 7 is neutral; a pH below 7 means the water is acidic; a...

Roses are a beautiful addition to any garden. Not only do these classics add color to any space, but they also have a timeless fragrance. Roses can be grown as bushes or climbers, requiring...

When you see a greenish tint to your pool water, it is the start of algae in the pool. You need to know how to kill algae in pool water before you allow anyone to swim in the water. Algae can...

A swimming pool can be a refreshing landscape feature on a hot summer day. Pools require regular maintenance to run properly. The water's acid or alkaline level, measured by pH levels, affects...

The dogwood tree is an elegant addition to the home landscape. However, for a dogwood tree to grow well, it must be planted in the correct conditions.

Pool-water testing kits are available in two basic types: commercial testing strips and liquid testing kits. In order to maintain the proper balance for your pool's water, testing kits should...

Black algae look like specks of dirt, but they are single-celled organisms that cluster at the side and bottom of a swimming pool. Black algae typically grow in a concrete swimming pool, but can...

When you open your pool in the spring after it has been closed for the winter, you might notice some green algae floating around. The pool water may even be green. Don't worry, it happens to...

The pH level of the water is one of the most important things to maintain to keep your spa healthy. If you do not maintain it, the water can damage your spa and become uncomfortable for people who...

Circulation and sanitation are the keys to keeping a pool properly maintained. A pump and filter system takes care of the former, while several chemicals are relied upon to keep pool water safe...

The balance of a pool's pH is affected by factors such as the weather, extent of pool use and its type of chlorination system. A proper pH balance is important in keeping the pool clean and the...

Removing algae in an above-ground pool takes a little time. Before anyone enters the pool that has algae forming, it should be cleaned to protect the health of the swimmers. A pool that has algae...

Algae is a problem for pool owners that can be avoided with proper care of the pool water. However, even the cleanest pool may show signs of green algae that must be treated right away before it...

Balance the chemicals in a swimming pool for the good health of swimmers and structural safety of the pool. Incorrect chemical levels in pool water can cause infections as well as eye and skin...

A hot tub is just like a swimming pool except for the volume of water it holds and the high temperatures of that water. Like a pool, it must have the proper alkalinity and pH levels. If the pH and...

Pond PH levels play a key role in plant health in a water garden or pond. Water PH should be monitored and kept at the proper level to assure an attractive, healthy pond.

Water balance, which means the correct pH, alkalinity and calcium hardness levels, is critical in the fight against algae. Although these water properties themselves cannot kill the algae, levels...

Hydrangeas are deciduous flowering shrubs native to Asia. The flowers of the hydrangea are known as either mopheads or lacecaps, and are either white, blue, purple, pink or, more rarely, red. For...

A healthy above-ground pool contains sanitary, balanced and clear water. Successfully caring for an above-ground pool and the pool water preserves the pool, extends its life, and ensures greater...

The chlorine level of your saltwater pool is just one aspect of the water's reliability. Keeping the chlorine level stable depends on the salt concentration in your pool, the level of your pH, and...

Calcification occurs when there is a buildup of calcium deposits. If you have calcification on your pool tiles, you'll notice white residue on the surface. It can be especially noticeable if you...

Keeping the alkaline levels in your hot tub high enough is important because these alkali give the water the ability to buffer pH changes. While some aspects of maintaining the chemical balance in...

An above-ground pool is a great way to stay cool in the summer, enjoy your backyard and entertain family and friends. With a pool comes responsibility and a big part of that responsibility is...

Cypress trees will decorate your landscape for hundreds of years if they are properly maintained and cared for. The four most common types of cypress tree are the Bald Cypress, Pond Cypress,...

Iron in your swimming pool water can cause hard water, which is not something you want to have in your pool. Iron could be picked up from the piping in the swimming pool system. Iron will usually...

Regularly check the pH levels in your pond (at least once every 2 to 3 days), especially if you have fish or other organisms living in and around your pond. A pH level that is too low will make...

Saltwater pools, while more cost effective then fresh water pools, will still need to be maintained. Adjusting your pool's pH, chlorine and alkalinity levels will keep your water in excellent...

A fish pond can add a spectacular air to your backyard escape. The sounds of running water and the sight of fish add a sense of life and movement to an otherwise still yard. Add a few decorative...

When your pool tiles show signs of white deposits, it is an indicator of high calcium in your water. They key to controlling calcium deposits is to prevent them from forming. If your pool has...

Swimming pool maintenance for a small pool is a difficult chore to accomplish, but not impossible. Unlike the in-ground and larger above-ground pools that have a filter system to circulate the...

Maintaining your home spa can be easier than you know. With proper treatment of your spa's water, an understanding of the chemicals used and a scheduled maintenance system, your home spa can look...