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Perhaps you wanted some nice greenery in your home, or maybe your Norfolk pine is a leftover "living Christmas tree." It's easy to see the appeal of this pretty plant, but it's bad news if Princess likes it too. For her sake, it's best to rehome that Norfolk pine for her sake.
Change your shaded backyard from a drab, dark place to a refreshing oasis by installing the right landscaping for the site. Just because a yard is shady does not mean it has to be boring or depressing. Learn how to leverage and modify the natural qualities of the location to improve the functionality of your backyard. Then choose the right plants and materials to give your yard variety, charm and seasonal color.
Transporting dirt up a hill doesn’t have to be a long, complicated process. The work might seem daunting at first, especially if you have a huge pile to move up a steep slope. Before deciding to simply use your trusty shovel and your own two feet, consider using a tool to aid your process. Depending on the amount of dirt you have to move, your budget and the hours of work you are willing to put in, any number of dirt-moving tools can be employed to help you transport the material.
Basil is a widely used herb in many types of cuisine. It is widely available in dried form on the spice aisle year round and is sold fresh during the spring and summer. Relatively easy to grow, basil is frequently cultivated by home gardeners either outside or on sunny windowsills. Sweet basil is the most common type and boxwood basil is a relative newcomer to the family.
If you have a groundbreaking project to tackle, it is important to have the right kind of shovel for the job. Although the term "shovel" is universal for a digging implement, there are actually several different types of shovels that each have a purpose when it comes to the type of groundbreaking you intend to do.
Grubs are the larval form of beetles, but just because they haven't reached maturity doesn't mean they lack an appetite. These small critters cause gardeners heartache by damaging flowering plants and grass roots. Take the fight to the grubs with chemical or non-chemical methods. Start by identifying the problem and using the right weapons.
Holly bushes come in many varieties but all are evergreens that keep their foliage year-round. The leaves are various shades of green and some have sharp points at the ends. Holly bushes also produce characteristic red berries in the fall and winter, which provide food for wildlife and create landscape interest. As hollies age, they develop sparse areas and grow quite large. To rejuvenate the bushes, cut them back to approximately 6 inches above the ground in late summer, fall or winter.
If you've ever bit into a sweet, bright red tomato and experienced the superior taste and freshness, you know the value of growing homemade tomatoes. While you can grow tomato plants from seeds, a faster method is to simply transplant already growing tomato plants into your garden. When you transplant them, you can either dig a hole or a trench. A trench is suitable for tomato plants that are leggier and for tomato gardens in colder areas, or if you want to get ahead of the growing season.
The clarinet is a popular instrument for students enrolling in band. Unfortunately, the sounds produced when first learning how to play the clarinet are often not very musical. Squeaking can discourage the player and irritate those within earshot of his practice sessions; fortunately, this problem has a few common causes and is easy to diagnose.
Dandelions may seem humdrum, but their genus has roughly 40 species – including some plants with red flowers and others in danger of extinction. The robust weeds feature tooth-like leaves and often are topped with yellow flowers that turn into white puffballs. While dandelions make lawn care more challenging, they’re nutritious and used to treat ailments.
Many regions of the United States are home to the Raywood Ash (Fraxinus oxycarpa), an attractive tree that can grow up to 80 feet tall at full maturity. Raywood Ash features dark green leaves that become an appealing shade of purplish red in autumn, making them a beautiful addition to the landscape.
Wild crocus is a member of the Commelinaceae family that grows mainly in Arkansas and Missouri. The herbaceous perennial produces flowers in shades of purple. While wild crocus isn't appealing to insects, it is susceptible to damage from browsing wildlife. Wild crocus is most vulnerable in the spring, when the plants are small and are developing new tissue.
Austrians and Germans have more similarities than differences in their cuisines. Both cultures eat lots of dumplings, red cabbage and sauerkraut. Austrian cuisine, however, derives from the Austro-Hungarian Empire and was heavily influenced by Italian, Czech and Jewish cuisines. Both Austrians and Germans eat a variety of meats, fruits and vegetables.
Franciscan pottery has a long American history that extends into manufacturing in England and China. The pieces made in California are the oldest and most desirable. Dating your Franciscan tea pot or other piece of pottery may take a little detective work as some patterns continue to be manufactured even after more than 60 years.
For those areas in your yard that turn into quick flowing rivers, albeit small rivers, of water during rainstorms, you have to do something to keep the kids from playing in them. You could keep the children inside, or you could use a little imagination and begin building. A do-it-yourself garden bridge might just be the answer. It doesn't have to be an elaborate project, just something to help keep their shoes and socks dry.
Resin urns are a lightweight alternative to traditional cement versions. Resin is an ideal material for urns because it holds fine detail well, is fairly durable and cost effective. Due to their lighter weight, resin urns are subject to damage from being dropped or knocked over. Freezing weather can cause the urns to crack. Damage from weed whackers or lawn mowers is common and plants with heavy root growth may stress an urn beyond its capacity. Minor damage can often be repaired, saving your ornamental urn from the scrap heap.
Trillium is a family of 40 to 50 species of perennial, deciduous flowering plants that grow wild in North America and Asia. Each species of Trillium is unique to the region in which it grows. Homeowners value these plants for their showy blossoms and cultivate them in woodland and wildflower gardens.
If you have plans to construct landscaping from mini bricks, you will quickly realize that the cost of purchasing pavers such as mini bricks can add up quickly. Fortunately, you can purchase plastic molds and form your own mini bricks at a fraction of the cost. In fact, you can even add coloring to the bricks to enhance the overall look and design of your landscaping.
Once considered part of the lily family, the Trillium genus includes up to 50 different species that are native to Asia and North America. Typically not thought of as a weed, trillium will spread when ants carry the plant's seeds to other locations. When a small patch of trillium has grown out of control, it can quickly take over by suffocating other plants and stealing the vital nutrients.
If you are trying to add weights to your workout reoutine, and wish to work out at home, you should consider getting a set of dumbbells. Dumbbells allow you to perform dozens of exercise, and they take up little space in your home. If you are on a budget, and cannot afford to buy a set of dumbbells, you can make your own from plastic jugs and concrete.
Glass mosaics are unusual and varied, ranging from individually pieced seascapes, modern clean lines with cool tones and handcrafted multicolored patterns of broken pieces of glass to simple color variation within a similar tone of glass mosaic colors. In addition to spicing mosaic work up with diverse colors, grouting with two (or more) colors gives the do-it-yourselfer's project design flair and adds a little wow factor to the job.
Lawn mowers are simple, reliable machines that require little care. Fresh gasoline in the tank and an occasional oil change is commonly all that is required for years of faithful service. Mishaps occur, however, and water may find its way into the fuel supply. Gas cans and tanks are vented to the atmosphere, and these vents will allow water into the fuel under the right (or wrong) conditions. The amount of water and its location in the mower determine the severity of the situation.
Growing Trillium ovatum, an elegant plant with delicate, white or pink flower petals, requires time and patience. The seeds of Trillium ovatum can take a few years to germinate, and the plant needs a few more years after that to produce its first blossom. Trillium ovatum is hardy from USDA Hardiness Zones 5 to 8, with the average minimum temperatures in these zones ranging from -20 to 15 degrees Fahrenheit. It thrives in the shady cover of trees and enjoys an average level of rain every year. If you can spare several years to tend to this plant, you will…
Red-shouldered, or red-banded, stink bugs are insects that originated in Brazil and now inhabit Louisiana. The bug is an herbivore that has been destroying soybean crops since the year 2000, when it was discovered in America. This stink bug is named for the red band that crosses its triangular shoulders from one side to the other.
Wishing wells are decorative features that enhance your landscape. Decorating your wishing well allows you to make a stronger landscape statement than if you left the wishing well unadorned. Choose colors that accent the colors of your home, such as the colors of your shutters or the trim around your windows and doors, to create a cohesive look by tying the decor of your wishing well and your home together.
Wishing wells in today's gardens are typically small reproductions of large, functional water wells that dotted the landscape in generations past. Some wishing wells disguise a working well beneath them, but many stand alone as garden features or focal points. Landscape your wishing well with climbing plants, tall perennials such as day lilies or old-fashioned cottage garden plants such as hollyhocks, depending on the general theme and look of the rest of your property. Because most wishing wells are installed on lawns, you'll need to fortify the soil to accommodate flowering plants.
Decorate your yard with beautiful, handmade whirligigs (also known as wind spinners). Add movement and whimsy to dull spaces. Metal whirligigs can be expensive, but you can save money and enjoy yourself at the same time by making your own whirligig. Copper is a great way to add an unexpected touch of color, too.
Imagine dropping a coin down a well, making a wish and having it come true. This describes the whimsy of a wishing well. You can add a touch of this magic to your landscape or yard with a homemade wishing well.
The theme of the wishing well can add whimsy to the office, home or a wedding event. Wishing wells can be used in many applications--as decorative items or functional accessories. They may be crafted from a variety of material, from poster board to found objects.
A manometer is a device used to measure pressure, commonly employed in gas and air pressure applications. Manometers were originally developed for use in measuring gas pressure in millimeters and later expanded to measure units in inches.
Trilliums are small, perennial wildflower with a single stem and a purple, windmill-like three-petal flower that cover the forest floor in the spring. Also known as the bloody butcher, the purple trillium can be cultivated from seed but will take several years to produce a flower. Because they prefer forested or shady conditions, they can be challenging to grow in a sunny backyard. When planting a trillium, try to reproduce the conditions of a forest as best as you can.
When it comes to choosing materials for your home's exterior, redwood can create a warm, rustic look that truly stands out. Redwood is available as both siding and trim, so you can use the material to give your home a log-cabin feel or simply accent the style of your home. While it can provide a lovely look for your home, you may have a difficult time figuring out what exterior colors to pair with your redwood siding or trim. To take the guesswork out of it, consult the color wheel and find shades that complement the warm tones found in…
Starting in the late 1990s, the brown marmorated stinkbug infested fields and homes in the United States in increasing and alarming numbers. Establishing a hold first in Pennsylvania, populations have now been found in the South, the Midwest and as far west as the Oregon coast. Residents of infested areas risk crop damage during the summer and home invasion when the weather cools. Smashing the bugs results in an unpleasant odor.
Rocks as mulch around plants work well from a decorative standpoint and with the proper material underneath, keeps weeds down. Because rocks are an inorganic mulch, they don't contribute to the soil, but on the plus side they will not decompose. The choice of rocks includes, marble chips, river rock, pea gravel and even lava rock will work. The material underneath the rocks keeps the rocks from mixing with the soil. Once the rocks mix in, it becomes difficult to separate them and you will need to replace the rocks. Eventually, a set-up with no material underneath results in a…
A wildflower, Trillium recurvatum is commonly known as "wood lily," an herbaceous perennial native to the eastern United States. The plant grows in clumps18 inches tall and 12 inches wide that produce purple to brown flowers in mid-spring. Left undisturbed, the wood lily naturally spreads through tuberous underground stems called rhizomes. To propagate the plant in a different spot, divide an established Trillium recurvatum clump in late summer to early fall while it is dormant.
Trillium grandiflorum grows 12 to 15 inches tall and produces white, three-petaled flowers in spring and early summer. As the flowers mature on the shrub, they gradually turn from white to pink. This herbaceous perennial is native to the eastern United States. Plant Trillium grandiflorum in a semi-shaded spot. The foliage dies back in winter but comes back each spring.
Trilliums are species of flowering plants that belong to the same botanical group. These perennials are native to North America and Asia where they grow in the wild, blooming in the spring. The family name, which means "three" in Latin, refers to the plants' habit of developing three leaves, three petals and three sepals, the leafy structure that holds the petals. The quickest way of propagating Trillium is from rhizomes, which are tuberous underground stems that produce roots and shoots.The seeds take up to two years to sprout and the resulting plants another five to seven years to bloom.
Garden stick arbors provide a whimsical entrance to gardens. They are comprised of a frame of large sticks with small sticks woven throughout. You can purchase arbors made of a variety of materials, including wood, iron and plastic, but a stick arbor is the material of choice for homeowners who desire a more rustic look in their gardens. One of the most appealing characteristics of a stick arbor is that you can find most of the materials in your own backyard. A stick arbor can be constructed in about one day.
The back is comprised of nerves and muscles that connect to other regions of the body. Many of these nerves are very sensitive to sharp, sudden movements, large amounts of weight and environmental changes, such as the weather. Using proper form to lift and move objects is essential for preventing serious back injuries. Failing to take care of your back when moving heavy objects can lead to back problems that can last a lifetime.
The Canadian hemlock has short and soft needles with a bluish-white coloration, an attractive feature that makes the tree widely used as a landscape plant. The tree also undergoes a bark transition -- Canadian hemlock bark is smooth when young, developing prominent fissures and ridges as it matures. A Canadian hemlock will grow under a variety of conditions, but there are certain considerations that will retard or improve its development. A poorly growing tree should green up if some simple steps are followed.
The signs of bird damage on your lawn can vary widely, depending on what sort of birds are doing the damage. Birds are attracted by the sound of earthworms and insects burrowing beneath the surface of your lawn, and will rip and tear your grass to get to their food. Keeping an eye on a few telltale signs can help you identify if a bird has damaged your lawn, and if so, what type it may be.
The loss of a loved one can leave everyone in the family unsure how to cope. Creating a memorial garden at home provides you with a place where you can grieve privately, and where you can remember your loved one and the times you spent together. The act of creating the garden may provide closure in itself, and can be a project that involves all mourners to promote healing.
A biodome, or a terrarium, is a miniature self-supporting ecosystem. Biodomes are a wonderful way to teach children about the basic cycles that allow us to live on earth. Biodomes are also a great way for gardeners to grow plants that do not require much maintenance. Biodomes cycle water and nutrients so they do not need to be watered at all. Even if you don't have much of a green thumb, you can still have a successful biodome garden.
Celery juice is a hydrating juice with many nutritional benefits for the body. Many people who incorporate vegetables juices into their diet typically include celery juice for its fresh taste and nutritional content, but the leaves can also be juiced for additional benefits. Celery leaves contain a high amount of vitamin A and C, potassium, sodium and sulfur, whereas the stem contains different vitamins and minerals.
Canadian hemlock, Tsuga canadensis, grows 80 feet tall with a spread of up to 40 feet, but the trees do not start out big. This slow-growing evergreen matures gradually when started from seed or rooted cuttings. For the first few years, Canadian hemlock trees, started in pots, stay small enough for container culture.
Archways are picturesque additions to gardens and outdoor spaces. They grace many famous gardens around the world and add a bit of romance to even the humblest cottage garden. Materials can be as substantial as stone or as light as bamboo. With a little imagination you can create your own archway for a garden party or to train your favorite climbing roses. With even a few simple materials, you can enhance your landscape with a graceful archway in a few hours.
Pest are any unwanted plants or animals that can be detrimental to humans and their endeavors, such as gardening. Pests can reside in your house or in the garden. Many pests lay such small eggs that they can be hard to see. The eggs of some insect pests hatch within hours, which can make identification difficult. Other pests can be identified by their larvae, if their eggs are too small or aren't noticeable.
Celery requires about 4 months to reach maturity when grown from seed. The plants prefer the cool season, generally growing as a spring or fall crop. Prolonged temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit cause the plant to flower, while temperatures above 85 compromise the flavor and texture of the stalks and leaves. Cutting celery at the right time ensures the plant has reached its full growth potential and developed the best flavor. Celery is harvested all at once, when the whole plant reaches maturity.
Tanzanite is some of the most highly prized jewelry in the world. The rich, blue-violet color of the stones makes them a desirable element in all kinds of jewelry including pendants, bracelets, earrings and rings. It is set into many different modern designs that make it popular with younger people. Tanzanite stones can vary in color and quality, which generally affects the price buyers pay.
Conenose bugs can cause health problems in people and pets. The bugs, also called kissing bugs or assassin bugs, prey on other insects but require mammalian blood to breed and survive. Twelve species of conenose bugs live in the United States, mostly in the Southwest. Conenose bugs have natural predators, but an infestation can be so serious that affected households shouldn't rely on wildlife alone to control an outbreak.
The skunk is a member of the weasel family, with the striped skunk being the most abundant of the four species found in North America. The animal causes serious damage to lawns and landscapes as it forages for food. Though other animals such as raccoons, armadillos and rodents are likely to cause similar damage, skunks are the more frequent cause.
Creating a special place to relax outdoors is a project you'll enjoy for years. With a detailed design in place, you can find plants and materials at closeout sales. Be sure to tell friends about your plan, in case they want to offer cuttings or bulbs from their own gardens. The fun of recycling and repurposing items will become part of the plan, too. Old benches, containers and masonry products can be incorporated into your hideaway.
Ivy is a common ground cover used in landscaping. Ivy beds grow rapidly and develop issues if not mowed regularly. The plants lose foliage, become woody and harbor rodents or other pests. Mowing the ivy beds encourages new, fresh growth and prevents these issues. Use a power lawn mower that has an adjustable height setting to prevent from cutting the ivy all the way back to the ground.
Gray is a cool neutral color that lends itself well to the interior and exterior of homes. The color is very flexible; it can be a dark charcoal gray, light and pearly or tinted with a hint of green, yellow and even pink. Because gray is so versatile, it can be paired with several complementary colors.
Plants play an enormous role in maintaining the health of the environment, that's why it's very important that we protect the plants around us. Plants, like animals and humans, need a lot of TLC. A water mist sprayer allows you to give your plants the amount of water they need to live. It will also allow you to effectively control how much water the plants are exposed to in an effort to prevent overwatering and decay due to mildew or rot.
Asian jasmine is not listed on any major toxicity lists, such as those from the ASPCA. Still, most gardeners do not want their dogs digging or urinating in their gardens even if it poses no danger to the dogs. Before you install a fence around a garden, incorporate one of several techniques or a combination of a few to keep your dog out of your garden and away from your Asian jasmine.
Smoking fish not only preserves it, but infuses it with a delicious, subtle smoky flavor that is a real delicacy. Traditional smokers are made from wood and are usually larger than commercially made smokers that come with many barbecue sets, or even stand-alone store-bought smokers. Making your wood fish smoker is relatively simple even for the carpentry-challenged and you can produce wonderfully flavored fish at home.
Creating your own indie-style wall art ensures that your home reflects you in all your uniqueness. To create DIY wall art, you don't need as much talent as creativity. Although wall art can be handsomely crafted drawings, some of the most interesting indie wall art embraces found objects in collage-style art that are put together in a new way. Because of the popularity of hobbies like scrapbooking, finding supplies to make your own DIY indie-style wall art is quite simple; you need only a variety of materials and the space of a few afternoons.
Create a wonderland in your back yard or enliven a child's bedroom with toadstools. These stools, meant to resemble mushrooms, are inspired by fairy tales such as the classic book and movie "Alice in Wonderland." Toadstools have one stump instead of four legs and are most often short in stature. With a tree stump and a list of tools from a local craft store, you can create a playful environment and a functional place to sit.
Playground borders are typically interlocking pieces of straight length boards, rails or plastic timbers. The borders hold mulch, sand or rubber pieces that provide a soft landing surface. The borders are an integral part of the overall playground design; you should design them to match the playground theme and provide necessary functionality. Calculating the playground border dimensions is a simple task.
You can make your own bricks for your next landscaping project. Making bricks for landscaping will allow you to customize them for your specific needs. The bricks are made from cement using a mold and can be colored using a powdered cement colorant. You will enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you make them yourself. Because the bricks will be poured into a mold and must dry between 24 to 48 hours in the mold, it is a good idea to have several molds to complete your project.
One of the first plants to bloom in early spring, trillium has three bracts -- leaflike plant structures -- that are sometimes green and other times mottled with spots of white. Flowers with three petals arise from the bracts, varying in color depending on the variety. Trillium thrives in moist, well-drained soil and full sun within U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 3 through 9. Zones 2b through 4b lay within the state of Minnesota, which means that trillium will grow anywhere in the state except in upper and lower Red Lake, Vermillion Lake and their immediate surroundings.
Some heavy-lifting situations around the house don't always call for a professional mover, especially when you're just doing a little rearranging. With proper preparation and a few helpful pointers, safely moving heavy objects is more easily accomplished than you may think.
Asian jasmine is not a true jasmine, but the starry white flowers look very similar. The plant is a vine that is often used as a hardy ground cover, much like we use vinca. It forms an excellent tangle of growth that helps prevent weeds and erosion. The small leaves are thick and shiny, arranged in opposite pairs along the reddish stems. The white flowers have a yellow center and a fragrance reminiscent of a true jasmine. Asian jasmine takes extremely well to shearing, although annual shearing will prevent the flowers from forming. This ground cover can easily be pruned…
Stink bugs are small shield-shaped bugs known to infest both gardens and homes. Originally from Asia, they have come to infest many homes and fields throughout the United States and other parts of the world. They get their name from a foul-smelling liquid that they produce, and although harmless to humans, they can damage plants and crops. There are a number of predators that include stink bugs in their diets and are helping to get these bugs back under control.
Bees are an important part of the environment, and an essential part of plant productivity. These insects aid in pollinating flowers, fruits and vegetables, making them necessary in agriculture. Every garden requires pollinators, and there are a number of factors that contribute to making a garden bee-friendly. Among the most important is plant selection, which should include at least a few plants known to attract bees.
The best fencing for your chickens depends on where you live and the type of predators you have around. The fence must have openings small enough that your chickens can't squeeze through it and tall enough that they can't fly over it. In addition, it must be strong enough to keep the predators out. Many types of fencing are available, and they are made from nylon, plastic or wire.
A memorial garden is a place where people can go to remember their loved ones. The garden can be a large sanctuary or a small corner as long as it represents the memory of the deceased. Memorial gardens can be built in a backyard or organized as part of a larger garden. Choose perennial plants that are easy to care for so more time can be spent enjoying the garden.
Celery has a reputation for being difficult to grow. Since celery grows slowly, start the plants indoors. Keep in mind that if you move the plants outside before temperatures are sufficiently warm, the celery will bolt and you will lose your precious crop. On the other hand, celery wilts if temperatures are too high, and it needs constant moisture.
Grassbur, also called sandspur and coastal sandbur, is a grassy weed that grows in warm climates, particularly in sand or gravel. It produces many barbed spines, which become attached to clothing and animal fur and puncture skin. Grassbur is common in the southeastern United States and southward into the tropics of the Caribbean. Once this weed invades a lawn, its complete removal may take 12 to 48 months.
Trilliums are perennial wildflowers native to the wooded areas of Asia and North America. They are popular among native plant growers and are used for woodland landscapes and in moist areas with deep shade such as a fern garden where other perennials wouldn't get enough sun to flower. They can be notoriously difficult to establish after transplanting. Selecting the right planting location and careful attention while they are getting established are critical. Once established, trilliums will reward you with flowers annually with very little care.
The dandelion is a flowering plant belonging to the family Asteraceae and is in the genus Taraxacum. Many view the dandelion as a pesky weed, yet it produces attractive, bright yellow flowers and the plant is edible in its entirety; it is often used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Whether using them for culinary reasons or simply to fill a vase with the yellow blooms, cut them early in the morning. Dandelions open with the sun and are sensitive to light. If you wait until evening or if it is overcast out, the blooms may be closed.
Trillium is a genus of perennial plants with about 45 species. Many of these species such as Trillium grandiflorum originate from the temperate parts of North America, while other species of Trillium come from Asia. Trillium is difficult to grow by seed in gardens because it relies on ants to extract the seeds from the dying flowers. The most common method of propagating Trillium is by division.
Large white trilliums (Trillium grandiflorum) are also known as white wakerobins, wood lilies and trinity flowers. These woodland native wildflowers grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 to 7. This understory flower blooms from April until June with 3- to 5-inch-wide, cup-shaped blossoms. The three-petaled, white flowers turn pink as they grow older. The flower stems reach 12 to 18 inches tall and grow in clumps that spread 6 to 12 inches wide. Trillium grandiflorum goes dormant during the hot weather in the summer, but this perennial reappears in the cool weather of the following spring.
A florist bow is distinct for its many layers and grand, domelike structure. Typically, this type of bow accompanies floral arrangements, but it can also be used to adorn a gift or gift box. In a pinch, you can use decorative ribbon to create a florist bow on your own instead of going out and purchasing one. The result will be a custom, one-of-a-kind accessory to your precious gift.
Plant tags are useful for identifying a plant. They may contain the plant's common and scientific names, as well as care information such as light and water requirements. Commercial nurseries frequently use plant tags and labels as a way to communicate information to their customers, but gardeners use plant tags to identify plants in the early stages of growth.
A memorial garden is a meaningful way to honor the memory of a loved one. Unlike a plaque on a building or a donation to a charity, a memorial garden lives and changes with the seasons. A memorial garden could consist of a single small tree and flowers planted around it, a fountain or a seldom-used corner. Or it could sprawl across the whole back yard, with paths and flower beds and arbor. Creating a memorial garden at home allows you to have a place to keep the memory of your loved one in your life.
Luminaries, also known as luminarias, are small lanterns that hold a candles. While most luminaries are simple paper bags weighed down with sand and holding tea lights, they can also be made out of other materials. Make a luminary out ice for a festive decoration on a cold winter night. Make your ice luminary in the coldest days of winter, when the chill in the air keeps it looking fresh.
The Canadian hemlock, referred to scientifically as Tsuga canadensis, is a member of the pine family that features a softer form than many other conifers. This species is known for a willowy nature and soft, feathery foliage. A multitude of cultivars offer varying colors and growth habits. The foliage of the Canadian hemlock may show damage, typically in the form of yellowing or browning and die-back, for a number of reasons ranging from pests and disease to extremely high temperatures.
With more than 6,000 varieties of roses, gardeners have a wide choice of blooms, colors and scents. Types include climbing roses, rose shrubs, tree roses and miniature roses. Each type requires a different treatment or place in a landscape design, with or without hard-scape elements like arbors or fences. Many of these roses are repeat bloomers, flowering repeatedly throughout the growing season. Many have wonderful scents, from a perfume-like sweetness to a citrus scent.
The dirt on your lawn, yard and garden is a staple at your home, and most people take for granted that dirt is just dirt. However, factors regarding your soil can affect the way plants grow, so knowing more about the type of soil and its characteristics will lead to better lawn and garden care.
Proper lifting techniques greatly minimizes your chances of injury. If you have access to moving tools or equipment that makes lifting easier, use them. Practice makes perfect when it comes to learning how to implement safe lifting methods. Take time to understand how best to use your leg muscles to move heavy objects, and notice the results. When you use your body properly to lift something, the weight centers where it ought to and less physical effort is expended.
Stink bugs feed on more than 52 plants, according to the website of the Integrated Pest Management Program at North Carolina State University. These include not only cultivated crops but trees, shrubs and weeds. The bugs can be found in many parts of North America as far north as Quebec. The southern part of the United States is especially troubled by stink bugs from Texas to Virginia. If you live in the Gulf Coast states, you may find stink bugs a constant problem.
"Falling Rocks" garden waterfall may refer to several different companies' style or model of waterfall. Most of these are above-ground waterfalls meant to sit in a backyard garden, but not all. Most have water catch basins at the base of the falls to create a pleasant waterfall sound. The placement considerations for any of these models of fountains or falls are essentially the same.
Canadian hemlock, known scientifically as Tsuga canadensis, is an evergreen tree that typically grows between 30 and 60 feet tall. Under the appropriate conditions this tree naturally grows in an attractive, symmetrical and conical shape, or it can be trained into a screen, hedge or shade plant. Proper soil texture, pH and drainage can help to ensure that a Canadian hemlock will reach its full potential.
Despite its common name of Asian jasmine or star jasmine, Trachelospermum asiaticum. is not a real jasmine plant. There are about 20 species of this evergreen vine, native to woodland areas from Japan to India. Its attractive, shiny green, oval leaves are covered in masses of small, white, star-shaped flowers, growing in clusters, that -- like its namesake -- are deliciously fragrant.
Most concrete cures on its own through a chemical reaction between the water in the mix and kilned calcium materials. However, misting your concrete while it's drying can help produce a stronger, more effective finished product. Misting can help reduce shrinkage and provide a number of other benefits.
In the United States, African enslavement began in the 1600s and continued for over 200 years. A hollowed-out gourd played a symbolic role for runaway slaves traveling along the Underground Railroad to the Northern states and Canada, where slavery was illegal.
Wall collages are fitting accents in a Victorian-inspired, contemporary or modern room. Collage has existed in various forms for many centuries, although it became a prominent fine art form in the early 20th century. They incorporate clippings from books and periodicals with photos, textiles and lightweight found objects to create a mood, make a social commentary or explore emotions and social boundaries.
A waterfall can be a beautiful and tranquil addition to any backyard pond and, with a bit of creativity, can become a centerpiece in your garden. When installing a waterfall, liquid black foam is used to seal underneath and around the rocks. In doing so, water does not escape under the rocks, but instead cascades down the falls as it should.
Choosing to adorn your front door with a fashionable eucalyptus and silk flower wreath will brighten and give your home a welcoming appeal. But purchasing eucalyptus and silk flower wreath can be expensive. Making your own is easy and will cost a fraction of a store-bought eucalyptus and silk wreath. Whether you use eucalyptus branches from your own landscape tree, purchase dried eucalyptus branches, or a combination of both, you can create a wreath exactly the way you envisioned. You may enjoy making your wreath so much that you create additional eucalyptus and silk door wreaths for family and friends.
Water features, such as backyard waterfalls, are an attractive and soothing feature to add to your yard. The sizes and shapes of home waterfalls vary greatly. You could purchase a fiberglass kit to make a waterfall but these are expensive and the finished product does not have a natural appearance. Making your own waterfall gives the finished a much more realistic look and costs little money to construct.
Fresh-flower head wreaths require only a few supplies, and girls of all ages will enjoy wearing one. From casual flower head wreaths for celebrating summer to head wreaths for wedding flower girls and brides, making your own allows you to select exactly the type of flowers you want and arrange them on the head wreath the way you envisioned. Add ribbons and bows to your head wreath for a special touch.
A small kitchen can be claustrophobic as well as frustrating to cook in. The lack of storage space can lead to overcrowded, jumbled cabinets and drawers. And it may seem hard to develop any kind of style in such a small space. But small square footage doesn't have to keep you from having the functional and stylish kitchen you want. Innovative storage can create a small kitchen that meets your needs.
The General Electric 42-cup coffee urn allows you to make enough coffee for a crowd of people. The urn takes approximately 1 minute for every cup of coffee, so you should start the coffee approximately 45 minutes before you need to serve, if making a full pot. Once made, the coffee will remain at the proper temperature until the urn is unplugged from the electrical outlet.
If you're constantly on the go, you may not have time to water your plants regularly. So if you want live plants in your home, but can't provide the proper maintenance, consider a plant globe. When prepared correctly, plant globes (also called terrariums) are self-sustaining. With the right plants, your globe will thrive indefinitely with little or no additional watering.
Real wells that tap into local water sources are increasingly rare, but decorative wishing wells continue to add a little old-fashioned charm to many backyards. They can add a storybook, English cottage feel to an outdoor landscape. Wishing wells are surprisingly versatile as well. They can be more than just landscaping devices but can serve useful functions. Many wishing well projects include a bucket to grow flowers in, and many also suggest growing flowers within the wall around the well itself.
Beloved by children for their soft, fuzzy feel, lamb's ears (Stachys byzantina) are a favorite garden perennial. They are an excellent choice to use in creating wreaths, as the silvery-sage color and soft purple blooms create a lush, velvety appearance. Lamb's ear wreaths hold their shape and color as they dry, allowing you to enjoy the wreath for many years. With leaves that are pliable when fresh, creating a lamb's ear bow adds the perfect finishing touch.
Sticker burr weeds, also known as sand burrs or field sand burrs, occur in lawns, fields, parks and in other cultivated areas. The burrs' sharp spines can inflict pain if stepped on or handled. They easily stick to clothing and socks. Each burr contains one to three seeds within its spiky covering. A warm-season annual, the plant grows from spring until frost. The best way to control sticker burr weeds is early in the plant's life cycle before it begins to produce seeds. Work to achieve control in the spring and early summer months prior to the weed's germination, when…
Straw wreaths are often used as a base for flower arrangements. Usually the flowers are dried and the arrangement is designed to look like a fall display but you can use the same techniques to transform the straw base into a live plant and flower arrangement. Select seasonal plants and flowers from your garden and place the flowers on watering picks and your display can look good for several days. Add or remove plants as they die out to keep the wreath in a constantly evolving state. This is particularly nice when you have a lush garden and beautiful feature…
In Wisconsin, food makes up about 17 percent of the content of landfills, according to the state's Environmental Education for Kids website. Wisconsin officials note that some of that food can be fed to worms, which convert such waste into compost.
Appliance manufacturer LG has offered five types of dehumidifiers, none of which are in production in 2010. However, the company still maintains product information and manuals on its website. Despite maintaining this information, LG does not provide specifications in the manner that most companies do. For instance, rather than listing the weight of the unit, the company lists the approximate weight at full capacity. This makes for an interesting, if somewhat odd, set of specifications.
Some live plants require daily watering and maintenance to thrive, and gardens require yard space that many apartment dwellers don't have. If you would like your own garden, but lack the space to grow it or the time to take care of it, you may want to consider a garden terrarium. Terrariums are self-sustaining environments that support tiny plants. You can grow your own using a fishbowl or other glass container, small plants available at any gardening canter and common aquarium and garden supplies.
Gertrude Stein once said, "A rose is a rose is a rose." Perhaps Ms. Stein was unfamiliar with all the varieties and types of roses developed over the centuries. Whether you want to include shrub, climbing or tree roses in the garden, or a type with flowers that make a suitable bouquet, there are many varieties from which to choose.
The acronym HB stands for hose bib (sometimes spelled hose bibb). Hose bibs come in several sizes and can be used for a variety of interior and exterior applications.
Adding boulders or other large rocks to a garden creates a decorative, natural option for borders or boundaries, but such rocks can be expensive and difficult to move. Instead, create your own fake boulders that are lighter and less pricey. You could create a boulder from papier mache or clay, but to stand up to moisture and withstand exposure to the elements, you must use building materials that will tolerate climate changes.
To properly look after a cactus, three main factors must be considered: heat, light and water. Cactus plants have evolved to thrive in poor environments, where soil has little to no nutrients. They require little space because they are slow growers and are commonly sought after for their low-maintenance qualities.
Lattice creates shade while still permitting a little air and light to flow through it. It also provides support for climbing plants such as clematis or ivy. Lattice provides a wind break, protecting tender plants from temperature extremes. Cross bamboo, reeds, willow withes, small hardwood or softwood branches or thin wood slats to create your lattice. Add edging to create uniform panels that connect with ease, or omit the edging for a more rustic appearance.
The bottle tree is a type of lawn and garden decoration that traces its origins to African slaves in the southern United States. These slaves believed that they could use glass bottles to trap evil spirits. They would arrange bottles, usually blue, on tree limbs as a type of spiritual protection for the home. You can create your own garden bottle tree as a historical reminder, a spiritual symbol or simply as a decorative accent.
Making a garden mural can add color and one-of-a-kind style to any room in your house. You can paint a mural in any room you desire. Even if you do not know how to draw or paint, you can do this yourself. Use a process that is similar to a paint by number. The key to having a successful mural is to find a garden picture that works for the room you have. Start by finding a number of garden pictures and try them out on the wall to see what fits best and looks best.
Garden balls are large, spherical decorations with shiny surfaces used to spice up decorating in a garden or other outdoor space. Reminiscent of model suns and planets, or perhaps a wizard's globe, these sculptures bring a touch of magic. Create your own mirrored garden ball to be displayed on its own or along with a collection of other garden balls.
While flowers and plants in the garden can be labeled with shorter spikes or poles, vases need tall-standing tags for labeling. Garden tags and plant markers are available at many home improvement, hardware and garden supply stores, but finding one long enough for a vase narrows the selection. Make your own garden tags for vases with long wooden kitchen spoons to create custom designs that fit your home's decor.
Building a cremation urn is no more difficult than any other woodworking project. Urns are meant to be simple, elegant and well-sealed. Using a few basic tools, sandpaper and a satin finish topcoat, create a professional-looking urn from quality oak or another wood of your choice. This simple wood urn will be suitable for keeping the ashes in a special place.
Old-fashioned Fels-Naptha soap is just that, a bar of simple, honest-to-goodness soap. It's the same all-purpose product that your grandmother used to wash laundry, bath grubby grandchildren and make insecticidal garden spray. Pure soaps such as Fels-Naptha differ greatly from more modern brands, which contain detergents. While these chemicals will kill bugs, they can also be very harmful to your garden plants. Unlike plain old soap, detergents can strip protective natural coatings from leaves and stems and cause dangerous dehydration, called phyto-toxicity. Play it safe, follow your grandma's example and make a cheap, highly effective garden spray from Fels-Naptha soap.
If you want to give your garden some year-round color and add a bit of pizazz to your patio decor, consider making your own whirligigs and garden pinwheels for decoration. This craft project is simple to do and suitable for children who are old enough to handle scissors on their own. Let these projects blow in the wind and bring a smile to the faces of the guests who enter your garden any time of the year.
Plant misters are often used to provide plants with moisture without disturbing the leaves or soil by giving a light mist directly to the surrounding area. Misters might also be used to increase the humidity in a terrarium. Plant misters can usually be set to range from a fine mist to a heavy stream of water, making them suitable for most gardening needs.
Coffee urns, also known as party pots and office coffeemakers, allow you to make a large amount of coffee at a single time. Most urns can make from 22 to 40 cups or more of coffee per batch and take from 20 minutes to almost an hour for the coffee to brew. When brewing coffee for a crowd, start the urn early in order to have fresh brewed coffee on hand when needed.
An evergreen, vining groundcover that's an alternative to turfgrass, Asian or Asiatic jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum) grows well in sunny or shady sites across U.S. Department of Agriculture Hardiness Zones 7b through 11. If not climbing up a fence or tree, Asian jasmine sprawls its stems horizontally to indefinite length, rarely produces its tiny yellow star-like flowers. Branching vines may form a mound 12 inches tall, but annually mowing the Asian jasmine groundcover in late winter to early spring creates a uniform carpet and promotes further and denser production of leaves. Many cultivars exist for gardeners to grow, including Minima, Tricolor…
Garden gnomes are a classic lawn decoration. The materials used to make them range from concrete to wood. You can make a garden gnome for your yard out of a sheet of plywood. The silhouette of the gnome is cut from the plywood and the details are added with paint. To make a garden gnome on a toadstool, simply draw in the toadsool before cutting the wood. Typically gnomes have a hat, large nose and cheeks. Use bright colors on both the gnome and toadstool to create a whimsical decoration.
Traditional Chinese gardens, also known as Chinese scholar's gardens, date back over 2000 years to the Han Dynasty in China. Scholar's gardens were built by scholars after they retired from the emperor's court. The scholars considered their retirement homes incomplete until the gardens were finished, because the scholars needed the gardens for their quiet, meditative properties. The gardens became popularized throughout the more recent Ming and Qing dynasties and continue to please scholars and ordinary visitors alike. Build a traditional Chinese garden in your Carson City, Nevada, home by choosing local flora that thrives in desert climates.
Vermicomposting differs from regular composting by the addition of specialized earthworms to speed the process. Vermicomposting can occur indoors and outdoors, in settings ranging from small urban apartments to large-scale ranch and farm operations.
According to Southwest Trading, the Husqvarna 55 Rancher chainsaw, though now discontinued and replaced by the 455 Rancher, is "rugged, reliable and strong enough for a wide variety of tasks." Southwest Trading cites the 55 Rancher's high engine power, light weight and vibration dampening system as reasons the 55 Rancher is a saw fit for making "simple work of the most difficult tasks." Even though the 55 Rancher has been discontinued, it can still be purchased some places, and a number of after-market parts are also still available.
A manometer consists of a U-shaped tube filled with a liquid, like mercury, and is used to measure the pressure of liquids and gases. The accuracy of your manometer is important for gauging the correct amount of pressure. Popular applications include measuring tank levels, filter pressure drop and flow, among many others. According to the Transcat Newsletter, manometers are used in just about every field of industry.
Creosote is a chemical substance that helps to preserve wood. According to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, high levels of exposure to creosote can harm human health. Fences and other wooden structures in your garden can contain creosote.
White canvas sneakers are a form of casual footwear that are usually, but not always, low topped. They go well with a variety of casual pieces of clothing, from shorts to jeans to summer dresses. There are certain outfits, however, that don't go well with these sneakers.
There are more than 800 species of tick, a blood-sucking arachnid that feeds on warm-blooded mammals. Some varieties of tick carry diseases, like the deer tick, which can transmit lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever to animals and humans. Ticks live in wooded areas but are often found on lawns and in gardens where they come into contact with humans. While you can modify your landscaping to discourage ticks from making a home of your yard, chemical pesticides are the most effective method for eradicating them.
You can use a wheatgrass juicer to make fresh cold-pressed nut butters. Wheatgrass juicers slowly grinds and extrudes plant matter with power from a manual crank or electric motor. Many models have a variety of filters or dies to accommodate a variety of produce. Crushing under cold conditions protects many of the vitamins, nutrients and fatty acids inside the raw nuts. Use a wheatgrass juicer to produce custom flavors and blends of nutritious nut butter in your home.
Gourds have been cultivated for thousands of years, according to the Ohio State University Extension website, and belong to the Cucurbitaceae, or cucumber, family. They require a long growing season to ripen, followed by a curing period. Gourds fall into three categories: Cucurbita, soft-shelled gourds used for fall decorating; Lagenaria, hard-shelled gourds used for bowls, birdhouses or other implements; and Luffa, used for their rough, internal sponge-like loofahs. When buying gourd seeds, select varieties that are suited to your growing conditions. Gourds may not mature before first frost in short-season areas.
To the brand new gardener, the questions can quickly start piling up, and finding useful information can seem daunting. Even the most basic information, such as what makes a plant "hardy" can seem perplexing. If you start with basic gardening knowledge, you can build on that foundation, adding more complex information as you build your gardening experience.
Garden accessories are a great way to dress up your garden. Making your own accessories can be a fun way to add your own personal touch to your outdoor area. Learning how to make a few different garden accessories can help you get the exact look you want for your garden area.
In northern climates, snow and ice are a fact of life every winter. While you can easily shovel snow from your walk, removing a coating of ice is another matter. Salt is the traditional substance used in many communities, but carrying buckets or bags of salt while spreading it over your walk is a tiring and difficult process. Instead, make use of a tool you would otherwise have packed away until summer--use your garden sprayer to melt the ice with much less effort.
Hemlock trees are popular for their unique, shaggy branches and the shade they can provide in lawns and in gardens. Canadian hemlocks do very well throughout most parts of North America and can live for hundreds of years, making ideal landscaping trees. However, it can develop problems with both diseases and certain environmental conditions.
Gazing balls add a splash of color to your garden and draw the eye with their iridescence. You can place gazing balls out in the open to make a big space feel less barren or place them in little hideaways to draw the eye around the garden. Though commercial gazing balls are rather expensive, you can easily make them at home. Instead of throwing away your old bowls, recycle them into garden decorations.
Wireworms are the larvae of click beetles and can be found in gardens worldwide. They destroy crops by feeding underground on seeds, bulbs, tubers and roots.
Coordinating the architecture of the house with the style of the garden leads to a consistent look. For example, a modern house with sleek lines and large expanses of glass would look odd with a country garden. Not only should you keep the styles consistent but also carefully look at the colors of the flowers and how they play off the color of the house. Gray is a neutral color that makes most other colors stand out. Blue and purple are too close to gray to work well and will fade into the color of the house.
A garden archway can be a graceful and decorative addition to your landscape. You can make your own garden archway with plumbing supplies that will age beautifully over time. Copper fits in well with many styles of garden decor, and you can create an archway from copper pipes even if you have few building skills. Place the archway at the entrance to your backyard or garden, or make it a focal point in your yard. Decorate the garden archway with flowering vines and other climbing plants.
Record your family's history, roots and members in a genealogy tree. A genealogy tree, or family tree, is a chart that shows the generations and relationships between members within a family. While a family tree doesn't tell the family story in detail, it does give a sort of summary, or outline of the story. Recording these pieces of information into such a chart can provide future generations with a snapshot of family history in an easy to read and understand form.
Creating a collage allows you to make a striking craft project without any formal skills or training: All you need to know how to do is cut and paste. A garden collage is an inventive way to ensure that you have flowers displayed in your room no matter what the season. When it comes to making a garden collage, you can choose from a variety of themes.
A copper garden sprinkler can add a distinctive look to any garden space or backyard landscape. While they are availabe in retail stores, you can design your own copper sprinkler using soft copper tubing and hard copper pipe. A copper sprinkler will last much longer than other materials due to copper's durability. Making your own sprinkler will take little time.
Building and installing your own garden footbridge will add a lot of character to your backyard. The task of building the bridge is relatively simple, and really requires only basic carpentry skills. You can put together a small garden bridge over the course of one weekend, or even in one afternoon, depending on how much experience you have working with hand tools, and how much time you can dedicate to the project.
Playgrounds can provide hours of fun for children and can give parents a break for a while as their children play. A great way to add a touch of landscaping to your playground is to create a perimeter or border, to separate the playground from the rest of the yard. Instead of spending more money installing a fence around a playground, you can consider bordering the area using wood chips, which are much more affordable than fencing materials.
Spiders help control insects. Watching in frightened surprise, however, while a furry eight-legged arachnid races toward you on the floor or finding one sharing your bed is unnerving. Arachnophobia causes physical discomfort including excessive sweating, quickened heartbeat, rapid breathing and even nausea and dizziness, according to phobias-help.com. Many who want to keep spiders away but don't like spraying insecticides that contain harmful chemicals look for organic repellents. Finding natural ways to keep these eight-eyed creatures from invading your space also helps the environment. Spiders avoid some natural ingredients. They don't harm the spiders—but do keep them away.
An arch created using branches and twigs adds a graceful element to the backyard garden, while providing height and a natural complement to flowers and trees. This is a good weekend project and requires few special skills or supplies. Get the whole family involved in gathering twigs. Once the basic arch frame is securely in place, the twig placement design can be enhanced with planted clematis vines, morning glory, sweet peas or climbing rose bushes.
Garden gnomes add a bit of whimsy to an outdoor space. The twinkle in their eyes and jolly smiles will add charm to your garden space. You can purchase your gnomes at a garden center. However, store-bought gnomes lack the special quality they would have if you created your own. A wooden garden gnome can be cut out of plywood and painted to capture the specific qualities you're looking for.
Gerbera daisies are extremely popular flowering plants, which are prized for their large, colorful blooms. While these flowers make a relatively hardy addition to most gardens, there are some pests that can cause problems for the Gerbera. Knowing how to identify these potential pests can help gardeners take action to keep their plants healthy.
Chia pets are plants that when brought to life take the shape or resemblance of many different objects or animals. If you are looking for a new do-it-yourself project, chia pets are easy to make with nylon hose. A homemade caterpillar is the easiest to start with, and it can be created in no time at all for enjoyment inside or outside the home for years to come.
Blue stones, crystals and gemstones can be beautiful. Their color comes from the minerals located in the environment in which the stone was forged. Blue traditionally is associated with healing, communication and self expression, according to Hinduism and author Samantha Stevens. Blue stones are said to carry these and other properties.
Most common spiders found in Nebraska's wide farm fields and smaller city gardens are beneficial spiders. These spiders make a good living off of the pests that can potentially ruin bumper crops of corn, sorghum or tomatoes. Beneficial spiders would much rather be outside than in your house, so carefully put them back outside so they can continue to eat the bugs that bug humans.
Garden teepees are almost exactly like Native American teepees, minus the hide covering. Garden teepees provide a structure for climbing plants, like peas and beans, to grow onto. While functional first and foremost, garden teepees made from natural tree branches and vines add an aesthetic appeal to the garden as well, and are portable, as an added bonus.
Wine or whiskey barrels can be used for all kinds of projects in your yard or garden. One of the most fun and satisfying of these is to create a fountain from one or more barrels. Make it as simple or as complicated as you like, but the result will be the same: You'll have the soothing sound of running water in your barrel fountain.
Papavers are a genus of poppies that include dozens of varieties, ranging from the colorful oriental poppy to the narcotic opium poppy. The easily grow from seeds sown directly in gardens or started inside. They prefer full sun, cool weather and a well-draining soil.
Crafted from readily available and natural sustainable materials, twig furniture (also known as bentwood, willow, stick or wicker) has added rustic mountain charm to homes for centuries. Willow gathered from nature is a renewable resource. When branches are cut, a new limb grows in its place. The creative do-it-yourself homeowner can easily fashion environmentally friendly home furnishings from harvested twigs.
Traps are the most effective way of eliminating voles, burrowing relatives of the mouse. Several natural alternatives are also available. These can vary from bringing in the vole’s natural predators to a catch-and-release approach. Like moles, voles dig up yards. The damage tends to be focused around the garden, though, where they feast on the roots.
Used extensively by the commercial floral industry because of its spicy scent and long lasting blooms, Matthiola incana--stock--may have been commercially cultivated as far back as the Roman Empire. An English garden favorite since Elizabethan times, Matthiola incana produces both single and double flowers and long grayish-green leaves. White is the most common color, but Matthiola incana also grows in pink, red, yellow, lilac and purple.
Potatoes are a staple food source in many parts of the world. They grow easily in gardens, making them a popular home crop. Yet potatoes are also susceptible to many diseases from fungus, bacteria and viruses. The most famous instance of a potato disease outbreak occurred during the Great Famine of Ireland. Blight, a disease caused by fungus, reduced the potato crop in those years causing the population of Ireland to starve.
Insecticides are designed to kill or reduce numbers of insects in agricultural lands, gardens or households---any place where there is an overabundance of insects that can cause damage to produce or humans. The components of most insecticides are synthetically manufactured chemicals. This makes them both extremely effective and extremely dangerous if improperly used.
A concrete bowl is made using a mold usually cut from Styrofoam or cast in rubber. For the do it yourselfer, the Styrofoam option is usually the best choice. There are several parts to the mold to form both the inner and outer concave edges. Once you make your mold you will be able to create several concrete bowls for use in your garden or as accents to your home.
Weeds can be a gardener’s worst nightmare. Not only do they suck away nutrients and water from other garden plants, weeds can spoil the aesthetic as well. Aside from the backbreaking task of pulling out weeds by hand, gardeners can make their own weed sprayers from items commonly found in the home without putting poisonous chemicals into the garden..
Franciscan earthenware, manufactured by Gladding, McBean between 1934 and about 1980, is one of the most popular collectible dinnerware brands in the United States and Great Britain. Its appealing colorful patterns and casual shapes suit a modern home as well as they did in 1940. Some of the most popular patterns are decorated with bright hand-painted fruit or flowers, a cheerful addition to any table.
De-icing is the act of melting ice from solid surfaces to reduce the risk of slipping and sliding. De-icing is most often performed on streets and sidewalks during cold winter months. Many types of commercial de-icing products are available for purchase at home improvement stores. A better solution, though, is to make your own liquid de-icer, which is cheaper and more environmentally friendly. The liquid de-icer solution is very easy to make with a few simple ingredients.
One of the must frustrating moments many people experience is when a small gas engine proves difficult to start. This can happen for a number of reasons, but the result is always a delay in getting started with a new task and often a protracted process that may or may not result in the sound of a running engine. However, there are several useful tips that can greatly increase your chances of making this process as painless as possible.
If you're fortunate enough to have room for a garden, there are many hours of satisfaction to be had in its creation and ongoing development. A delightful addition, if you have the space, is a garden wishing well. You can imagine it already, tucked away in a romantic corner of your garden. It conjures up childhood memories of picture books at bedtime, and a place to cherish your secret dreams. It makes a great planter, and will become a focal point of your garden. You may even start your own rituals for wishing.
Skunks are mild, nocturnal creatures that can cause damage to your garden and soil as they look for food. They are also notorious for spraying pets with their defensive spray, making the pets smell extremely bad for weeks, if not months. While skunks are not a physical threat to you, your family or your pet, they can still be obnoxious to have in your yard.
Trillium represents a genus of more than 40 species of perennial flowers. Native to North America and Asia, these plants are popular additions to the perennial garden. Planted and grown mostly from rhizomes (bulb like seed pods) into maturity, there is a method to planting that will help your trilliums bloom to their fullest extent. Trillium can also be planted from mature plants. This requires a slightly different approach in regards to planting. With the right information, you can have a hardy trillium garden.
Vermiculite seed starter is a soil-less planting medium that consists of either all vermiculite or vermiculite mixed with other seed starter media such as perlite and sphagnum moss.
Sealing concrete in and around your home can extend the life of the product. Most sealants soak into the cement, filling the air pockets within the porous material and strengthening the material while protecting it. Concrete sealant helps to prevent erosion caused by moisture from weather and by chemicals like the salt or mag-chloride used to keep roads de-iced in winter.
Railroad ties are used for many homes and businesses for landscaping. Railroad ties can create a barrier or perimeter, can be used as a fence or as a lawn border, or even be used as terrace structures. They can be purchased from any lawn and garden shop or home improvement store, and they're less expensive then purchasing slate or stone for the same purposes. When buying railroad ties, there are some things that you should take into consideration. Think of how large you want the border, barrier or fence to be, as well as where the railroad ties will be…
Patios and garden walkways add interest to our outdoor landscape and expand the useable living space of our environment as well. Sometimes a dramatic focal point can make all the difference between a so-so outdoor space and a garden showplace. Skilled masons are able to incorporate a variety of patterns into stone and brickwork and with a little planning, so can the home handyman. To make a charming sun pattern with paving stones, all that is required is some imagination and a good mosaic pattern. The rest will fall--or be cemented--into place.
Purchasing new carpet can be a major investment, and it’s a difficult process to determine the color, style, pile and material that best fits your home and needs. One of the most important and most overlooked factors in choosing carpet is the quality of the carpet: no matter how good the sample looks and feels in the showroom, you need to be sure the flooring will hold up once it’s being walked on in your home. You’ll be relieved to learn there are certain standards to look for when choosing good quality carpet, and their not too tough to learn.
Computing capacitive reactance involves some simple algebra and an understanding of how frequency and capacitance is measured. The calculations are difficult, but having a scientific calculator will make the calculations easier. A familiarity with the powers of ten notation and their prefixes will go a long way towards helping you master these calculations.
Candles are lovely and popular decorations both indoors and out. Homemade candle stakes that surround a garden highlight the growing flowers or vegetables for parties at dusk. Use homemade candle stakes to light a walkway on a warm spring or summer evening. When you craft candle stakes out of easy-to-find and inexpensive objects, it makes it easy and affordable to fill the garden or yard with candlelight.
Flags are perhaps the most common lawn ornament seen outside of many households. They come in all shapes, sizes and styles. If you are feeling creative and want to make a flag for your home a little more personal, then gather up your supplies and create your own. Flags are a simple welcoming gesture and look great in the vibrant outdoor space.
A small backyard doesn't mean you can't enjoy both a productive garden and a flock of egg-producing chickens. Plan and measure during the winter months so that you're ready to undertake the installation of an integrated chicken coop, chicken run and productive garden into your small backyard before planting season gets underway. You'll want everything in place before you fence the area in and begin digging your garden.
Anytime you want to design or rework your garden area, you need somewhere to start. The best thing you can do is to make a map of your garden first. Having a map of your garden not only gives you a visual idea of how the garden looks currently, but it also brings the areas of the garden down to size and gives you an accurate idea of how much space you have to work with.
Garden pedestals are a solution for boring garden spaces because they add varying levels of height and break up flat expanses. Topped with a crown of potted plants or favorite statuary, pedestals can be a great way to enhance your yard. Unfortunately, professionally installed pedestals can easily cost hundreds of dollars, making the idea itself somewhat prohibitive. But with a few recycled garden paving stones, you can easily and affordably build your own garden pedestal in very little time.
Garden arches may border the entry to a garden path or provide a focal point in your back yard. Flowering vines and other foliage can embrace and disguise the building material in your garden arch over time. You can build a metal garden arch with copper pipe and soft copper tubing that will hold up well in the elements and provide a simple structure for growing climbing plants and vines in your garden.
When it comes to watering a garden, the larger the garden is the longer it takes to water it. So many people will buy a sprinkler to help water the garden. However, it is possible to make a sprinkler out of PVC pipe to save money. Plus, the sprinkler can be made to any length.
Brick patios, garden walkways and brick garden "rugs" can offer classic traditional elegance or country charm to rural gardens and urban landscapes. Brick paving is cost efficient and durable and will add interest and value to your property. Brick can be laid to conform to any garden area or project. Brick "rugs" is the term given to angular or free-form brick-covered areas in the garden.
A garden presents opportunities for floral designs as well as homemade crafts. Homemade lanterns are fairly easy to make and illuminate a garden at night, giving a warm, whimsical feel. Decorating a garden is fun and easy. It also extends the home into the outdoors by giving it personal touch and style. Turning a gardening into a glowing place for meditation, relaxation or a dinner party is a perfect way to maximize the use of space.
When you have a small kitchen, decorating it goes hand in hand with turning the room into as useful a space as possible. Unlikely though it may seem, it is possible to prepare dinner for 12 or a buffet supper for 20 in a tiny kitchen. The secret is to organize your kitchen so that the items needed for entertaining, as well as those for daily use, are part of the decorating. In other words, let the pots, spoons, bowls and everything else you need become your kitchen decorations.
Enjoy the soothing sounds of falling water with your own backyard waterfall, simply constructed in your open yard, garden or pond area. Waterfalls come in all sizes and varieties. Fiberglass kits can be used for very minimal construction of a waterfall, but most people appreciate the natural beauty of stones and landscaping from a custom waterfall. If you have a low garden or pond area, keep your waterfall a low, gentle slope for the best consistency of form and style for your relaxing waterfall garden.
Garden gnomes are whimsical creatures with origins tracing back to the early nineteenth century. Some of the most popular terra cotta gnomes were created by Phillip Griebel, in the town of Graefenroda, Germany, and his representation of these gnomes remains popular even to this day. Whether you prefer the older style of Griebel's gnomes, or some of the more modern ones now manufactured, creating a village for your gnomes isn't hard, but there are some things you may want to consider.
Gas is expensive, so you might run your gas tank down lower then you would have in the past. Because of this, you might find yourself at home at some point and realize you probably don't have enough gas to drive to the nearest gas station. However, if you have a lawnmower, you can siphon gas from the lawnmower's tank into a portable tank and add it into your car.
A quilted garden flag adds a colorful accent to any lawn or garden. Make several flags to decorate your home for the holidays or seasons, or make them as gifts for friends and family. Use patchwork or applique techniques to make quilted garden flags. Making garden flags is affordable and an excellent way to practice new quilting techniques on a small scale.
Finding the cheapest place to live in the U.S. is not an exact science. Many factors come into play when determining where to settle down. Housing in rural areas generally costs much less than in cities, but you have significantly less access to social services, amenities and job opportunities. Some places have exceptionally low housing prices, but this can be offset by less than average wages and low quality of life. Several U.S. cities stand out from the rest in terms of affordable and decent lifestyles. As of 2009, Tulsa is one of the best choices in the United States…
Create outdoor lanterns using materials found around your home. Old tin cans and vases can be used to create an eclectic yet functional outdoor light. Use them under your canopy to create a dome of sparkling lanterns. Hang a set from your patio umbrella to create an outdoor chandelier. Use them on your dining table as a magical centerpiece that will light up the night. For magical dinner parties with friends, place them along your sidewalk or pathway for an inviting nighttime stroll.
Have you made the mistake of planting seeds and forgot to label them? Making garden stakes is a fun and simple way to make sure you know what you have planted in your garden.Whether you make them alone, or as a project with kids, it's a quick task that results in something both decorative and useful.
Reclaimed bricks offer an aesthetically appealing look to garden decor. Best of all, most reclaimed bricks are offered at a discount price, or can even be salvaged from your own yard. Before building your plant stand, thoroughly wash off all reclaimed bricks so you know what parts of the bricks are solid and what was caked-on dirt.
Sand is the result of rocks and minerals being broken down by weathering. The particle size varies from a diameter of 1/16 mm up to 2 mm. Sand's pH can vary depending on what materials are mixed in.
In the early 1600s, Renaissance Italy revived the manufacture of glass wine bottles. Around the same time, the French began to store wine in bottles with corks. European wine makers discovered that sediment built up in the bottles as the wine aged. It became apparent that the wine had to be transferred to a different container before serving, so as to remove the sediment. The solution was the decanter, which was created in the 18th century.
There are many different kinds of arch structures for gardens and landscaping. Gardeners can choose from wrought iron, cedar, metal wire or natural materials, with intricate or plain designs. Arches are usually built in gardens as supporting structures for vining plants, such as clematis, climbing roses and morning glories, although they can be left bare of plant material and just added as an architectural feature. For a cottage or herb garden effect, an attractive rustic garden arch is also easy and inexpensive to make.
Stink bugs are in the Pentatomidae, which are bugs that produce odors as their self-defense. There are over 200 different species of stink bugs throughout the world with the majority of them eating strictly plants; however, some are predators and eat other bugs. Though they usually are not a pest problem, they do have the ability to reproduce quickly, which would cause damage to the plant life around them, making them a nuisance to farms and gardens.
Add personality to your garden decor with custom made family garden plaques that can double as stepping stones. Each member of the family will get to leave their legacy and will enjoy these homemade garden plaques/stepping stones for years to come.
Beeswax is a natural wax secreted by bees to help protect the honeycomb. Beeswax has been used by humans for thousands of years. Some of its ancient uses were for jewelry making and cast molds. Beeswax has plenty of modern uses too.
Planting a memorial garden provides survivors a chance to grieve and reflect while being inspired by a living and growing garden that honors a deceased friend or family member.
Wichita Blue Juniper (Juniperus scopulorum) is a popular plant for hedges and borders because it holds its shape naturally without much pruning. But occasionally you will need to prune a Wichita Blue Juniper to maintain its size and promote healthy growth. Follow the steps below to keep your juniper plant in shape.
Pavers for keeping feet on a garden's pathway is a project that can be done using old milk jugs, one way to reuse a container instead of sending that item straight to a landfill. Once used, the plastic form can be used for more pavers or placed into the recycle bin. By following a basic process you can make pavers for the garden with old milk jugs.
Europe has enjoyed the beauty and charm of roof gardens for centuries. Now, more and more Americans are experimenting with this concept to insulate buildings, improve air quality and reduce CO2 emissions. Roof plantings can also provide a longer growing period for food gardens as the soil retains heat and is closer to the sun. Experiment with a small garden on a dog house or shed with these directions.
Whether your garden is dotted with ceramic gnome statues or they are just there in spirit, you can add an additional touch of whimsy to your garden by adding a small door for garden gnomes or their fairy cousins to pass in and out. Particularly effective in cottage gardens or plantings adjacent to children's play areas, a gnome or fairy door is decorative, rather than functional.
One of guest's favorite spots to lounge in our garden is the pillow-piled daybed on the patio. It's more comfortable than the backyard hammock, and more luxurious than a typical lounge chair. What's more, it was really easy (and cheap!) to build. So, let's take a look at how you can create a cozy garden daybed in your back yard.
Rustic gardens that include structures, furniture and accents is the hottest trend in garden and yard decor. Rustic furniture, ornaments and structures now are featured in many upscale landscape centers and arboretums and even in contemporary homes. A rustic garden gives a sense of "old-fashioned" charm, regardless of how rustic or modern the exterior.
Standard gardens and landscapes consist of small flower beds or shrubbery highlighting various points around the home. Spectacular landscapes that make you say "wow" often consist of exotic plants along with expensive walls, fences and even statues. You can make your garden excite the senses and transmit your personal message for a fraction of that cost. A few simple changes will brighten your garden, fix the trouble spots in your yard, and make your visitors say, "Wow!"
A bottle garden is sort of mini terrarium. Able to fit on a windowsill, this project can be enjoyed by horticulture enthusiasts and can also provide a useful educational experience for anyone who wishes to teach children about plant growth. Standard, wide-mouth canning jars can work well for this project, as can mayonnaise jars and wide-mouth plastic water bottles.
Garden plows can be pushed or pulled. Pushing is the least effective way to use one, however. The human shoulder girdle and arms are not as strong as the human legs and pelvis. Pushing the plow requires a tight grip, leading to hand fatigue and blistering. In this adaptation based on a wheelbarrow, we will turn the blade to face away from the wheel to create a more effective and safter pulled plow.
Many gardeners are excited by the prospect of attracting butterflies to their gardens. It can take a long time for butterflies to utilize a butterfly house, so patience is important when waiting for your new tenants. Even is left uninhabited, a butterfly house can be beautifully decorated and add charm to your garden.
If you want to honor someone special, it's possible -- but not easy -- to name a rose after the person. As long as the name isn't already in use, you can follow one of two paths to register a cultivar. This may require a long-term commitment and a lot of money, but there's no better way to create a long-lasting tribute.
Although your garden has its own beauty, you can still make it more appealing by adding a few decorations. One such decoration, a mosaic garden ball, can be made at home out of old sports balls. Not only will you be teaching your children a valuable lesson on recycling and saving money, but you will also be able to explore your artistic side. Once you have finished creating the mosaic garden ball, display it on a stand or just lay it among your flowers.
There are liquid and gas tiki torches. Propane is the preferable choice of many because they do not smoke and last for a very long time. The demand also makes them less expensive. They are also a viable option for green planet advocates because they use natural gas instead of fossil fuels. A third option, the flameless, soaks up natural sunlight all day, then glows brightly at night without the use of any fuels or electricity.
Planning out your garden will help you maximize your space and get the most out of your garden this year. Also, it gives you a pretty image to look at while waiting for your garden to grow!
Add whimsy to your garden landscape with a windmill you can make yourself. These decorative crafts are charming and can be small enough to add to a flower bed or large enough to be the focal point of your garden. Make your garden windmill from metal sheeting, copper tubing, PVC pipe or wood and paint any of the materials with exterior acrylics for added interest. Your windmill may not produce energy, but it will enhance the appearance of your garden.
Whether it's to teach beginners the basics of gardening, giving education to your customers, or helping create a community of vegetable growers, a flyer about gardening can be an efficient handout to educate others about a rewarding hobby and way of life. The key to any good flyer is to give only the information necessary in a quick and simple format that is easy to read and understand. For gardeners, you already have a captive audience interested in learning more; all you have to do is create the way they will view the information.
It is really not very difficult to become a plant collector. I actually turned into one virtually overnight after we moved into our new house. What exactly is a "plant collector"? There are probably two different types of plant collectors. (I happen to fall into both categories.) One type of plant collector gathers as many different varieties of plants that will grow in their zone. The second type of plant collector finds one (sometimes two) genus of plants to which they are attracted. They then begin to accumulate as many different varieties of that particular family of plants as possible.…
It is peaceful and relaxing to walk through a beautiful, sloping flower garden. But without steps on a steep slope, it can feel more like a mountain hike than a stroll. Making the steps takes some time and some hard work but is well worth it when you're finished. Not only does it add character to your garden, it makes it easier to view the entire area. You might want to recruit a friend or two to help you out, and pick a dry weekend to get the work done.
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a vegetable originally used for healing. These days celery is a dieter's staple. Each vitamin-rich stalk is low in calories but packed with flavor. Celery can be eaten from the roots to the seeds. Celery seed mixed with salt creates celery salt, which is used in seasonings such as Old Bay Seasoning or even on a Chicago-style hot dog.
The pottery barn furniture outlet stores are great -- you can find excellent quality, great items and super deals all in one place. There are only ten such stores nationally, however, so if there is one near you, you're in luck. Currently, Pottery Barn furniture outlet stores are located in California, Georgia, Michigan, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. Keep reading to learn more about store locations and tips when shopping for Pottery Barn bargains.
A first aid kid should contain supplies that can treat minor wounds fully as well as provide certain stopgaps for injuries that are more serious and need to be treated until the patient can reach a health care professional. First aid kits should be kept in both your home and in each vehicle you own.
Planning for a big spring rummage sale? I have one every year and do quite well. I also buy a lot of kids cloths and such at rummage sales so I see the best and worst in presentation.
Decks are popular in the American backyard. Decks are often remodeled to mimic the indoors. From drainage systems to decorative railings, outdoor spa to barbecue area, decks of modern day are beyond simple wood structures. Following are some ideas for your next exterior project.
Rhubarb is a plant with edible meaty reddish stalks and large green leaves. The leaves of rhubarb plants are poisonous, but the poison is generally mild. Rhubarb grows from and can spread via seeds or rhizomes, and as such, is a perennial plant that may spread and grow in size over the years. Rhubarb is a popular garden plant and is also grown and sold commercially. One of the most common uses for rhubarb is for making a tart pie filling.
A florist bow is quite versatile. It adds pizazz to gifts, flower arrangements, homecoming mums, and wedding and holiday decor. You can use florist bows to emphasize a theme or color scheme, like green and white for St. Patrick's Day, or school colors for a high school dance.
Pathways guide your journey through your landscaping and allow you to highlight some areas and hide others by guiding visitors away from unsightly areas. Some pathways are built for practicality to get wheelbarrows and other equipment to the areas in your garden where they are needed which normally means that they will need to be wider. For the purposes of meandering, a path wide enough for two people to walk abreast comfortably is sufficient. You can create a wood-chip path in hours once the materials are on hand.
Mosquitoes are common pests in the summer months that do much more than simply damage a garden. They can spread dangerous diseases and make it less desirable to spend time outdoors. Common mosquito repellents involve poisonous chemicals that can have undesirable odors or other side effects. Most gardeners are unaware, however, that a few easy to manage plants can do much of the hard work of repelling the mosquito nuisance. If the plants themselves don't do the trick, try crunching some of the leaves to release the natural oils. If mosquitoes are still a problem, harvest the leaves and make…
During fall and winter months, the summer fun you had at the beach on your last vacation can seem very far away. As the holidays near and you become stressed out or just plain tired, relax and remember your summertime fun by lighting up your seashell candle garden. Use shells that you found yourself, or purchase them at a local store. Either way, you will enjoy the peace and warmth of your garden while calming down and enjoying the simple pleasures of candlelight on a fall evening.
Beautiful English garden wreaths are the perfect gift to add a romantic touch to any decor. The delicate pink and yellow pastel flowers against the background of olive colored salal leaves, interspersed with lavender and baby's breath sprays make them especially attractive in the bedroom or guest room.
Recycling old tires and turning them into a garden container base is a great way to help the environment and create a useful container garden at the very same time. You can use this tire garden for both vegetables and flowers.
There's something enchanting about escaping to a beautiful, quiet spot in your own backyard to enjoy a good book, a dose of solitude or even a cup of tea. While any of these things can be experienced from a lawn chair propped up in the middle of the yard, the experience can be greatly heightened in a tranquil garden hideaway. Whether you make an elaborate garden hideaway or one that is quite simple, you will certainly enjoy the time you spend there.
It is said that in Japan that there are Bonsai that are hundreds of years old, passed down from generation to generation. Bonsai gardening is more than just a hobby. It is a commitment. These little trees need constant care and watering on demand, which mean you can't go on vacation and just leave them full of water, hoping they will be okay until you get back. Just as you need a pet sitter, you will need a Bonsai sitter. The Bonsai will teach you patience and in return give you peace and tranquility.
Luminaries, or numerous smaller festive outdoor lights, are becoming increasingly popular at all times of the year. It is believed that the tradition goes back thousands of years to holiday celebrations. Earlier in American history, colored lanterns from China were placed on the ground and lit with candles. The luminary centerpieces described below are an easy way for you to make your garden party truly illuminating.
Learn how to give your garden lots of color in this free gardening video about growing your perfect garden.
Pesticide and skin tonic - neem oil does them both. This rich oil, which is ground or distilled from the Azadirachta indica plant of Southeast Asia, is used as a non-toxic, organic pesticide on a wide variety of crops including vegetables. It is also a common ingredient in cosmetics and even shows up in some toothpaste brands.
Though it may seem odd to devote an entire article to a plastic bag with a seal-the Ziploc bag is definitely part of my every day-it makes life more orderly. And though it is advertised to merely preserve food-the Ziploc is so much more. Here are some uses for these versatile little gems.
Chrysanthemums come in so many different colors that many gardeners cannot decide which they like the best--so they plant them all!Chrysanthemums are a resilient flower that begin to bloom at the end of summer and can be persuaded to maintain their flowers throughout fall in milder areas. These large, beautiful flowers are popular for Mother's Day and Homecoming dance corsages, make a lush and vibrant foundation for a fresh bouquet and come in an endless assortment of rainbow hues. These hardy flowers require very little attention as long as you heed a few growing fundamentals. Plant them in the right…
When you plant items in your garden, you want to make sure that you know what is growing as it’s growing. The easiest way to do this is by putting in garden tags where you have the plants growing in. Instead of buying garden tags, here are some ways that you can easily make your own.
Roses are relatively easy to reproduce with cuttings from a healthy plant. With time and patience you can get your own roses reproduced and growing. All it takes is following these simple steps and some tender loving care to get a beautiful rose.
Creating a memory garden can help you channel grief and memorialize a loved one who has passed. Memory gardens can be simple or elaborate, depending on your taste and purpose. Many people like to start small and add to the memorial garden every year on important anniversary dates. Making a memory garden as a family is a good way to share memories and thoughts about your loved one as you work together. Here's how to make a memory garden.
Keep your family pet around and remembered by making a garden headstone for him/her. Learn more about pet headstones in this free garden craft video from a mosaic artist.
Tips on making a garden wish list to make your dream garden in this free gardening video.
Tips for creating a gardening budget from an expert in this free gardening video.
Learn about gardening and creating garden rooms in this free gardening video.
Garden mosaics are a wonderful way to add color and style to your garden. Whether nestled among masses of lush green plants or displayed prominently against a fence, these bits of colored tile can create a focal point to your yard or garden.
Moving heavy objects can be a difficult task and one that carries with it a potential risk of injury if done incorrectly. You always need to protect your body when moving large, heavy objects. Even if you don't feel immediate consequences, lifting incorrectly can lead to long-term damage. Protect yourself by always using safe lifting procedures.
Despite a growing season that lasts only a few months, your gardening chores can easily extend all year long. If you plan ahead, you will see a larger harvest. By creating a gardening calendar, you not only organize your growing schedule, but also provide an easy method for tracking your soil preparation, pest management and fertilizer application.
Gardens can be healing. They reconnect us with nature, offer places of serenity in our ever stressed out and complicated worlds. A therapeutic garden falls under the general umbrella of healing garden. The healing garden is now being recognized by the American Horticulture Therapy Association as a proper therapeutic tool, defined as a plant dominated environment with green plants, flowers and water. It is called therapeutic if it is designed to meet a specific user's needs. Five key elements make therapy gardens successful.
Flowers aren't the only way to bring in fresh elements to your table or countertop! Succulents make the perfect living plant to work with. They last longer, and when placed together in a glass bowl with some simple touches, make a great gift or housewarming present. In this article, I am going to teach you how to make an arrangement using succulents.
Depending on where you live, tick season usually begins in the spring and lasts until the weather becomes cool in the early fall. Ticks can cause Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, tularemia, Colorado Tick Fever or Lyme disease.
Farmers began building scarecrows to scare hungry birds from their fields. Today, you can make a scarecrow to keep those hungry pests out of the garden.
The sand garden or Zen garden has a long history. The Karesansui, or "dry mountain, and water garden" is the most famous, and is made entirely of sand, decorated with rocks or other elements, that is raked in varying patterns resembling flowing water. Learn how to create your own sand garden
You can make seed tapes at home with toilet paper and a glue stick. This homemade version works just like the commercial versions. Follow these suggestions to make your own seed tape.
The lighting you choose to use in your home and outdoors makes a world of difference. Lighting a garden does not have to be expensive or hard to accomplish. Using readily available materials and some Christmas lights, you can create a string of festive garden lights to light your way.
Man started telling time centuries ago. Initially the time of day was guessed by looking at where the sun was in the sky. The sundial followed, using a shadow caused by the sun and telling the time by reading the number the shadow was resting on. Today we use analog clocks, which tell time using dials, and digital clocks, which display the time. Here are the steps to learn how to read a dial clock.
Making improvements to your property is a big investment, and it's less stressful when you have the right designer to help you with the process. Here are some ways to choose the right landscape architect for you.
A garden path can link one area of the yard to another, reroute traffic around a pond or greenhouse, or just formalize a path that everyone uses already anyway.
