Landscaping is a vital aspect of renovating a home. With seven in eight of us having access to a garden, the importance of green spaces is by no means lost on property developers. Indeed, a good garden can have real impacts with regard to property value and first impressions amongst viewers.

But choosing how to approach a landscaping project will naturally differ from renovator to renovator, and from taste to taste. Material considerations are paramount here, informing as they do the aesthetic and budget of the finished garden. Treated timber is a strong and often underrated contender for outdoor structures, but why is it advantageous to use?

Durability and Versatility

First and foremost, treated timbers are purpose-made to be hard-wearing. They lend themselves well to outdoor applications, on account of being moisture-resistant and hostile to the growth of decay-abetting microorganisms. These timber products are treated with chemicals that prevent the growth of fungi and help support wood fibres for longer. As such, they are primed to survive shifts in weather and temperature, making for longer-lasting superstructures.

Not only are treated timbers durable, but they are also versatile. Wood as a material suits a wide variety of practical applications, being an easy material with which to work. This is to say nothing of its aesthetic value, wherein even bare treated timbers can be used to great effect for the visuals of a given landscape design.

Pest Resistance

Treated timbers have numerous advantages over untreated timbers. We’ve already discussed how the chemicals with which they are treated prevent the ingress of moisture and fungi; the same can also be said for pests and insects. Burrowing insects like termites and carpenter ants can wreak havoc on the structural stability of a finished design, be it a pergola or a raised bed. The chemicals in the timber are a deterrent for these insects, ensuring that the structures you build retain their integrity for far longer.

Environmental Friendliness

One of the major benefits to designing landscaping projects around the use of treated timber is environmental in nature. Building materials have a significant impact on the environment, both in terms of local ecosystems and carbon emissions. With regard to the latter, concrete – a common landscaping material – can be extremely pollutive as a material, and unkind to flora and fauna to boot. Timber, however, is a sustainable and renewable resource. Less carbon emissions are a produced in the processing of timber, and more timber can be grown in its place. 

Cost Friendliness

Finally, utilising wood products in the place of metal or stone can have positive implications for a given landscaping budget. Timber is cheaper than these materials, and can achieve similar goals dependent on design. As such, a landscape idea can be realised for dramatically less than it might be with other materials – with aesthetic and environmental positives to boot.

Worried you’re not getting the most from your garden space? Still haven’t found the perfect style to suit your little plot of outdoor land? There are various garden styles just waiting to be discovered, with designs changing based on the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. If you’re wanting to give your garden a little makeover, keep reading for some of our favourite garden styles, including how you can transform your space into something straight out of a Pinterest board!

English Cottage Garden

Truly emblematic of the cottagecore trend, the English Cottage Garden is known for its romantic and informal charm. With overflowing flower beds, climbing plants and heaps and heaps of colour, while high impact, this garden style can also be high maintenance so isn’t for the green-fingered faint-hearted! However, if you’ve got loads of time on your hands, this super-rich floral paradise may be the perfect style for you.

Zen Garden

If you’re a fan of more minimalist decor, a Zen Garden might be perfect for you. Inspired by design principles from Japan, zen gardens focus on creating a serene and private atmosphere, making the most of features like:

• Rocks (including large ones to create a cohesive zen design)
• Gravel
• Screening
• Water
• Plants (typically bonsai, ferns, mosses, swarf conifers and Japanese maples)

Mediterranean Garden

Mediterranean Gardens are great for those that don’t have tons of gardening time on their hands. This style is inspired by the landscapes of Mediterranean regions and invokes warm colours both in the flora and fauna, and in the man-made furniture. Think colourful throws, fun textures, and outdoor cushions as vibrant as the flowers surrounding them.

Contemporary Garden

The Contemporary Garden style puts modern design principles at the forefront. It’s all about viewing the “big picture” and creating an outdoor arrangement that looks natural and not fake. Simple geometric lines should be used as the base for the design, for example, squares, circles, rectangles and other shapes that intersect and interact well with each other. Three things to keep in mind: minimalism, functionality, and clean lines.

Wildlife-Friendly Garden

If you’re focused more on the practicality of your outdoor space than its aesthetic, consider a wildlife-friendly garden. These gardens are all about helping continue the life cycle of the natural world – which makes them great for introducing native British plants like corn mint, or wild garlic! The key to creating a wildlife-friendly garden is to simply let it be, so put those hedge trimmers down and trust nature to do its own beautiful thing…

Looking to revamp your garden but not sure where to start? Why not use these garden styles for inspiration. Pretty soon, you’ll be able to share your own outdoor space as inspiration for a Pinterest mood board!

Teachers play a vital role in shaping the next generation’s minds, and it’s essential to show them an appreciation for their hard work and dedication. One of the best ways to do this is by giving them a meaningful and thoughtful gift. A succulent is perfect for a teacher’s gift because it represents growth, resilience, and a love for nature.

Succulents are low-maintenance plant that requires little care, making them an ideal gift for busy teachers. They are also easy to grow and come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, so you can choose one that suits the recipient’s taste and style.

Moreover, succulents can help create a relaxing and peaceful environment in the classroom, which is beneficial for both teachers and students. They can also be used as educational tools to teach students about botany and the environment.

Choose a planter matching the recipient’s decor or a personalized planter designed explicitly for assistance to make the gift even more personal. You could also include a handwritten note or card to express your appreciation and gratitude.

It’s also important to consider the recipient’s level of gardening experience when choosing a succulent teacher gift. For example, for those new to gardening, you could opt for a beginner-friendly succulent that is easy to care for and requires minimal attention. On the other hand, for more experienced gardeners, you could choose a more challenging variety that will provide a sense of purpose and accomplishment.

Finally, remember to include care instructions with the gift. A succulent care guide or a simple set of instructions can help ensure that the plant thrives and provides comfort and joy for years to come.

Another advantage of giving a succulent as a teacher’s gift is that it’s a sustainable and eco-friendly option. In today’s world, choosing environmentally conscious gifts that don’t harm the planet is becoming increasingly important. Succulents are grown in minimal soil and water, making them a low-impact choice.

Additionally, succulents can also serve as a reminder of the teacher’s impact on the student’s life. As the plant grows and thrives, it can symbolize the growth and positive impact the teacher has had on the student. Furthermore, as the succulent grows, it becomes a constant reminder of the teacher and the memories shared.

Furthermore, succulents can be a great way to bring a touch of nature into the classroom. A well-maintained succulent can not only improve the aesthetic of the school, but it can also contribute to the overall mood and atmosphere of the room. A green, thriving plant can make a big difference in the mood and well-being of students and teachers alike.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a succulent teacher gift is its versatility. Succulents can be used in various settings, from the classroom to the home, making them a flexible and practical choice. For example, they can decorate a desk, a window sill, or a living room.

Finally, succulents make great gifts for any occasion, not just for teacher appreciation. Whether it’s a holiday gift, an end-of-year present, or a farewell gift, succulents are a versatile and practical choice that will surely bring a smile to the recipient’s face.

Moreover, when giving a succulent teacher gift, you can also personalize it to make it more meaningful. For example, you can write a heartfelt note or even attach a small tag with a message to the plant. You can also choose a specific type of succulent with special significance or meaning. For example, the jade plant, known as the “money tree,” is said to bring good luck and prosperity. On the other hand, the aloe vera plant is known for its healing properties, making it an excellent gift for a teacher who has positively impacted your life.

Another idea is to include a small planter or pot with the succulent or even decorate the pot with colorful paints, markers, or stickers. This not only makes the gift more appealing but also adds a personal touch to the gift. You can also include care instructions with the plant, so the teacher knows how to care for it properly.

Additionally, you can give a group gift, where each student contributes a succulent or some money towards the present. This shows the teacher how much the class appreciates them and creates a fun and collaborative experience for the students.

Finally, succulent teacher gifts can also be given with other presents. For example, you could give a gift card, a bouquet, or a box of chocolates along with the succulent. This shows the teacher how much they are appreciated and gives them a range of gifts to choose from, making the experience even more enjoyable.

Conclusion

Succulent teacher gifts are an excellent way to show appreciation and gratitude to the teachers who have positively impacted your life. They are a sustainable, personalizable, and versatile gift that can be given on any occasion and is sure to bring joy and comfort to the recipient. So, consider giving a succulent teacher gift to show your gratitude and appreciation and help positively impact their life.

Waste Types Explained 

A skip bin is an easy way for you to get rid of rubbish, especially if you have significant amounts of waste to deal with. However, most skip bins are categorized on waste types – which means you cannot simply lump everything together in the bin. Failing to do so may lead to extra charges from the skip bin company, or it may even cause the waste to be returned.  

But exactly what kind of rubbish can go in a skip bin? How do you categorize the types? At Pro Skip Bins Brisbane https://www.proskipbinsbrisbane.com.au these are common questions that we get asked all the time. To help clear things up, we thought we’d write a quick blog post explaining the different types of waste that can be put in skip bins. Hopefully, this will help you make better decisions about what goes in your bin and what doesn’t. So, without further ado, let’s get started.

The government of Australia has quite a strong National Waste Policy.  Policy means that you should only dispose of your waste in a certain way to protect the environment. Skip bin companies follow that rule, so here is how the waste is categorized. 

1. General Household Waste  

As the name suggests, general household waste is the kind of waste that can be found around the house. Typically, these bins are hired during times of spring cleaning, garage cleaning, or when moving a residence. 

Many things can go in a general waste bin. You can put in anything from clothes and toys to furniture, books, kitchenware, non-electrical fittings, and many more. White goods can also be added to a skip bin. As long as they are in an appropriate size, you may put in refrigerators, dryers, dishwashers, washing machines, etc. 

Remember that this skip bin is only designed for general household items. Therefore, you cannot place things such as bricks, soil, or concrete. As a rule of thumb, you may place items that were once part of your décor or household function. 

2. Renovation Waste 

Renovation waste is the kind of waste that results after a renovation project. For example, if you take a wall down, remove paint from a wall or otherwise make any kind of alterations to your home, the waste may go in the bin.  

Renovation waste includes bricks, concrete, tiles, metal, sand, pavers, roof tiles, and steel. All types of general waste that have resulted from your renovation efforts may be cleaned up and added to the bin.  

No other material may be added, even if it is in smaller quantities. If you have general waste, then you should get a general household bin as well. Skip bin companies strictly enforce this rule. Thus, if you include any other material than construction waste, you will be charged an extra fee. 

3. Dirt & Soil 

Dirt, sand, and soil also have to be separated from a general waste skip bin. Nothing else aside from these types of waste can be lumped together.  This includes everything from cardboard to bricks. Simply put, as long as it has the fine structure of sand or dirt, it can go in the bin.  

4. Concrete 

While concrete and bricks can be added to a renovation waste bin as renovation waste, some companies will categorize it as its own type of rubbish. This means that if you have any tiles or metal items that you want to get rid of after the renovation, you may not do it with this skip bin. 

Make sure that when you want to get a skip bin for renovation waste, you don’t accidentally get one for concrete and bricks alone. This may end up costing you extra. This is because companies have strict guidelines for you to only dispose of this type of waste. 

5. Green Waste 

Green waste is organic waste that you collect from your garden or your backyard. This kind of waste gathers quite frequently, so individuals contacting a skip bin company will likely have a skip bin over regularly.  

This waste category includes most types of organic materials that can be found in your garden. They are grass, leaves, wood chips, branches, bark, and many more. Pieces of wood and fence palings that resulted from your yard spring cleaning may also be added to this skip bin. 

Other types of waste may not be added to the bin. This includes sand, soil, dirt, putrescible waste, or pet waste. Many of these types of waste may be added to different skip bins. If you have hazardous waste, then one may place it next to the bin and ask the company pros to get rid of it. 

The Bottom Line 

While all of these types of waste may be placed in a skip bin, bear in mind that this does not mean they can be placed together. Depending on your volume of waste and the types, you may need to hire multiple skip bins in the appropriate sizes. By mixing the waste, you might end up increasing the costs. 

With the cost of living crisis and the current energy issues engulfing the United Kingdom and Europe in particular, the United States has issues of its own given the current oil price and the need to move to a cleaner, cheaper, greener future.

Time seems to be more on the US’s side as we approach winter and the extra costs associated with colder temperature spells, but as people look to 2023 wondering how inflation and the varying stock markets will continue to be affected by corn and crop problems following Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the ongoing war, a household income is no bar to taking up a new hobby and turning your hand to growing vegetables.

In the current climate and definitely with a mind to the future, growing some of your own is not only an enjoyable way of spending a little bit of time, but down the line, it could also help to save you a little bit of cash.  Predicting future inflation is akin to placing a bet with someone like novibet.ie , when gambling you always choose the best, but safest odds, that work in your favor and that is no different to now planning how you could lightly reduce your shopping spending.

Particularly during the period of the varying level of lockdowns across the country, people obviously had a little more time on their hands and many turned to growing vegetables and fruit, and new research has shown that going the green fingered route is more popular than ever across states.

Size is not relevant, you can go the full kitchen garden route, or simply use a few patio pots, and if you are limited for space, windowsills are more than good enough for dipping your finger in and ending up with some cheap, but incredibly tasty fresh food.

In a recent study, the National Gardening Association found that 35% of US households were now growing their own vegetables, fruits and other food and that figure is up by an equivalent 18 million new gardening converts.  On average, their research found that the average garden in that 35% are now producing at least $600 worth of produce a year.  Individual yields will not be the same obviously, but it just shows how financially relevant this hobby can be and even age is no issue.  Executive Director of the NGB, Diane Blazek, explained.

‘We see a lot more millennials as part of the new gardeners and a lot more men. And now, with inflation, more people want to grow their own food to save money. We find that this happens every time there’s a recession or excessive inflation.’

The beauty about this green fingered pursuit is it truly depends on your own literal tastes.  Tomatoes is the most popular crop with 86% of respondents listing these – for those with a garden a glass greenhouse is good enough for a bumper crop, but pots on a city balcony or bright windowsill will provide plenty.

Cucumbers are the next favorites at 47%, with sweet peppers (46%), runner beans (39%) and carrots (34%) quickly following in the list of the preferred things to grow – again the growth in simply using pots is massive here, and Diane added.

‘People want to garden, but they don’t have the room like before, so container gardening is growing in popularity. Breeders are responding by breeding varieties that do well in containers, like Pepper “Pot-a-Peno” (a pepper plant for a hanging basket), “Squash Goldilocks” – a bush-type squash, and Pea “Snak Hero”.’

Other newer pot/basket edibles include blueberry “Midnight Cascade”, and “Little Miss Figgy” but there will definitely be something to suit your fancy.

Grass lawns aren’t sustainable in many parts of the United States. They require a lot of maintenance and water to stay green and look nice. This amount may be too much maintenance for many people, but you may still want a gorgeous lawn. 

If this is you, you should consider xeriscaping!

What is xeriscaping?

Xeriscaping means dry scaping. It is a style of landscaping that lowers the need for irrigation. If you own a lawn in hotter parts of the United States, you may have heard of xeriscaping already. Xeriscaping is for people who want a beautiful yard while saving water, especially during droughts.

Xeriscaping may be the solution to a lawn with high water needs. With xeriscaping, you can transform your yard with native plants with lower water needs. Xeriscaping is excellent in places like Nevada and Utah, which have sweltering and dry summers.

Native plants

Xeriscaping uses drought-tolerant, native plants, which you can get from Utah seed companies. These native plants can survive on the amount of water that the area typically gets, which often results in these plants being drought-tolerant in locations like Nevada and Utah. 

These may be plants like succulents or drought-tolerant ground cover like Allegheny spurge. Purple coneflower, a plant native to Texas, is popular for being incredibly drought-tolerant while still being a striking flower.

Replacing the lawn

Xeriscaping typically replaces a grass lawn with rocks and mulch or soil. Using these eliminates the water needs that grass has. You plant the drought-tolerant native plants and group them with plants of similar water needs.

Irrigation

Another part of xeriscaping is using more efficient irrigation for your lawn. Drip irrigation systems work well for xeriscaped lawns. These save on water usage by delivering water to the plants more efficiently than using a hose or traditional sprinklers.

Why should you consider xeriscaping for your lawn?

You should consider xeriscaping your lawn if you live in a dryer area that often goes through droughts or a place that doesn’t have access to a lot of water. Your yard can still look beautiful, green, and colorful while not needing as much water as a traditional lawn.

It lowers the amount of work you have to do to maintain your lawn because the plants need the same amount of water that the area naturally gets. They also have the exact sunlight needs the area offers. So if you want to keep that look, you don’t have to eliminate the whole grass lawn.

You can use beautiful hardscaping like rocks and footpaths, which reduces the amount of space you have to dedicate to plants while still having a beautiful lawn.

Xeriscaping cuts down on cost, too, since it saves water and needs less upkeep. Drip irrigation systems can drastically cut your water bill. Grouping plants together based on water needs can, too. Needing to mow less also reduces your water bill and helps the environment by lowering gas consumption.

Before you go

Xeriscaping is a great way to keep an eco-friendly lawn without sacrificing beauty. If you live in hot regions, you may greatly benefit from trying this landscaping method. Anyone anywhere can benefit from planting native plants in their lawn.

Landscaping and horticulture are disciplines that occupy a unique space in the economy, being a unique marriage of popular hobby and lucrative business opportunity. There are many green-fingered garden enthusiasts who will have considered taking their first steps into monetizing their hobby – but what are the steps to making such a move?

Settle on Your Niche

While it may be tempting to hit the ground running and start taking clients immediately, it is of instrumental importance to the long-term success of your business that you take the time to plan your offerings properly. Taking any and every job may seem a shrewd idea to guarantee short-term profits, but can harm your long-term growth strategy and even cause you to overstretch beyond your capacity.

Instead, you should decide on a niche for your business to specialize in. While this limits your client pool, it also enables you to raise your rates and stake a claim to a high-demand corner of a wider market. Since you are not being forced to spread thinly over a wide range of work, you can stand to invest in specialized tools and lead in your niche.

Formulate a Business Plan

The next step in this approach is to draw out your business plan more comprehensively. Start with the months running up to launch. What equipment will you need to buy? Will you be a sole-trading freelancer, or will you start a limited company and hire staff? Next, you should plan the first 12 months of business in detail, and draw up a five-year plan for growth and development.

Build Your Business Structure

With your plan secure, you can begin to make the various investments and arrangements that will form the structure of your business. This will naturally include the purchasing of tools and equipment, but should also necessarily incorporate research into logistical, legal, and protective services.

For one, if you are starting a limited company with staff, you may not have the financial nous to manage payroll and accounting – in which case, outsourcing to a chartered accountant can be a wise, cost-effective business measure. You can check it out at this website. You will also need to ensure you receive correct and relevant legal advice for business growth and staffing.

It is important that you choose your outsourcing businesses and legal advisors carefully. With regard to the latter especially, missed deadlines or incorrect advice can lead to damages, and amount to professional negligence on the part of the solicitor or advisor in question. While you would be liable to make professional negligence solicitor claims in these instances, it is better to avoid the eventuality entirely.

Marketing and Launch

All that remains is to launch your business. Depending on the nature of your niche and work, your marketing strategy is likely to differ. For domestic landscaping services, word-of-mouth marketing might be best for helping you gain the trust of local communities. For corporate work on commercial premises, a targeted marketing approach with flyers and a strong digital presence may better capture the attention of administrative staff.

A lush, beautiful lawn can be the defining feature of a front yard. It’s the first thing people see when they drive past your home and can add a good deal of curb appeal if you plan to sell soon. 

However, most homeowners know that keeping a lawn looking its best can be tricky. From knowing when to plant your grass to getting your soil and seed combination just right, a lot goes into the perfect lawn. 

Related website: HISEA Waterproof Boots

Seed options

Your seed options are the first thing you should consider when planning your lawn. There are three regions in the United States for grass: the cool season zone, transition zone, and warm season zone. Each zone has specific types of grass that thrive best.

Some grasses are versatile and will thrive in multiple zones. For example, a fine or tall fescue mix or Kentucky bluegrass will do well in the cool and transition zones. Similarly, Bermudagrass and zoysiagrass work best in warm or transition zones. 

Planting season

Once you choose your seed mix, you’ll need to confirm when you should plant it. Each region has its own rules, so to speak, about when to plant grass. You should do your best to follow them for the best chance of success.

You should plant cool season grasses in the fall or spring. You’ll want to put the seed down before the first frost to ensure a root system develops. Warm season grasses do best when planted during late spring or summer.

Soil testing

Soil composition is a critical factor in growing your best lawn, which is why soil testing is a necessary lawn maintenance step. If your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, your grass might not thrive or could fail to grow entirely. 

Soil testing involves using a testing kit to determine your soil’s pH. You can purchase a kit online or anywhere that sells gardening supplies, such as a home improvement store. When you test your soil, you want a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. You can adjust the pH by adding sulfur or peat moss to increase acidity or lime to decrease it. 

Prepare the area

Clearing away any rocks, roots, or other soil debris is vital to ensure your grass can develop strong roots. A hardy root system will help your grass stay strong during the dormant season and absorb sufficient water during the growing season.

All you need to prepare your planting area is a pointed shovel and a bucket or wheelbarrow. Using your shovel, dig down and remove any plant remnants or rocks and break up any hardened soil chunks. Cart everything away in your wheelbarrow, then fill the holes with topsoil.

If you don’t know how to prepare the area yourself, you can rely on lawn edging experts to help straighten out your lawn for you.

Wrapping up: Lawn care 101

Growing the perfect lawn can be a labor of love. Although it might take time, once you have a lush carpet of grass gracing your yard, you’ll know it was worth it. Fortunately, if you follow the guidance here, you’ll be all but guaranteed to have success.

Landscape architecture is one of the most exciting fields of study for those interested in addressing issues of critical significance to the future of our planet and its inhabitants. Through developing projects ranging from intimate gardens to parks, gardens, and cities, landscape architects are poised to intervene at a wide range of scales, in myriad contexts, and for multiple constituencies. Industry reports show that the field will grow exponentially over the next several years. According to the United States Department of Labor, the employment rate for landscape architects will increase by 5% between now and 2024. As populations worldwide continue to expand, they create the need for development. The strain of development on the natural environment also creates the need for trained individuals capable of balancing both facets without causing detriment to either side.

Accordingly, organizations in the landscape architecture industry are increasingly looking for talented and well-trained professionals. They have a strong interest in the education and preparation of students who are the future workforce of the profession. Through hiring and working with graduates of disparate programs, employers have a perspective on the relative strengths of schools and colleges and how graduates are prepared for professional practice. We have researched the best schools for landscape architecture, highly rated by leading architecture firms in the world.

Best Landscape Architecture Schools

If you’re looking to study landscape architecture, many programs are available at the bachelor’s level. You can earn a BA, BSC, or a BLA (Bachelor of Landscape Architecture), depending on the university you choose to study. The best landscape architecture colleges offer majors and minors in undergraduate and/or graduate degree programs that meet licensure requirements. Students that enroll in these schools can also combine the professional graduate program with an urban or regional planning master’s program. Below is the list of the best and most admired landscape design colleges.

Cornell University

Any student pursuing a degree in landscape architecture needs to look into Cornell University. Located in Ithaca, it is the only undergraduate landscape architecture degree among Ivy League schools. The Agriculture and Life Science college at Cornell University is one of the best landscape architecture schools and an international leader in education and research. The Department of Architecture, established in 1904, endeavors to produce socially responsible and creative graduates. Its flexible curriculum allows students to tailor the program to their interests. Students can explore innovative and functional solutions for the challenging problems associated with the profession. The university has world-renowned experts and educators who teach landscape architecture courses. It affords students the benefit of extensive resources related to the college and cutting-edge facilities, including state-of-the-art technology and tools. Cornell University offers the following programs.

• Undergraduate degree – Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture
• Graduate programs – Master of Landscape Architecture & Master of Professional Studies
• Online programs – includes CALS Exchange Program

Harvard University

Harvard University is one of the top schools to get your degree in landscape architecture in the U.S. Situated in the midsize city of Cambridge, it offers a graduate-level architecture, landscape architecture, and urban planning program designed to prepare graduates who wish to enter teaching and advanced research careers. The school also offers Doctor of Design and Ph.D. programs that don’t meet licensure requirements but are geared towards students interested in pursuing a career in academia or research. Program cohorts in the college are small, enabling one-to-one contact with faculty. Students also get the chance to work with internationally recognized faculty and experts and explore the multiple ways that landscapes positively contribute to the complexities of the contemporary city.

Iowa State University

Admissions to the university’s BLA program are very selective, admitting just 36 students per year. Iowa State University offers a limited enrollment, five-year bachelor’s degree program that prepares students for state licensure. The available graduate degrees include a Master of Science in Landscape Architecture intended for those pursuing research-oriented careers and a professional Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) degree. Graduate students can also choose to earn an MLA degree in conjunction with a Master of Community and Regional Planning. They also embark on the traveling studio during the fall semester within and beyond the great Midwest region of North America to study regional natural systems and their respective cultural responses. Both its undergraduate and graduate programs incorporate minors in Critical Studies in Design, Design Studies, and Digital Media.

Why a Student May Need Professional Writing Services

Landscape architecture is a practical and hands-on program, implying that learning can take place in design studies, field trips, lectures, and seminars. Students can find it overwhelming, especially when they have to juggle other essential things in their lives like work and family. Luckily, reliable custom essay writing services help students with all their academic writing needs. CustomWritings.com is a professional essay writing service that helps you get in control of your studies. It has a team of professional writers and experienced specialists in all academic fields, ranging from landscape architecture to nursing to computer science. The experts guarantee quality, original, and personalized papers at pocket-friendly prices. The company has been offering academic assistance for years and great solutions for complex dissertations, research papers, assignments, term papers, admission essays, and many more.

Prominent Colleges for Landscape Architecture

Several other landscape design schools with comprehensive degree programs incorporate experiential training with academic studies. Here are three prominent landscape architecture schools that you can also consider.

Auburn University

The school offers a master’s degree in landscape architecture. Students gain experience through field trips and research assistantships. Auburn University also has a dual degree in landscape architecture and community.

University of Florida

The university’s Department of Landscape Architecture offers the only professionally accredited Bachelor of Landscape Architecture program in Florida and is considered among the top schools in the field. The program covers a broad spectrum of practice and theory and provides opportunities to study abroad.

Clemson University

The Department of Landscape Architecture’s focus on the values of the art and science of design, innovation, engagement, and ethical environmental and social justice has made the university prominent across the country. Clemson offers a bachelor’s and master’s degree in landscape architecture and provides the option of pursuing the programs off-campus within and outside the U.S.

Most Sought-after Landscape Design Schools

Whether you are looking for two-year or four-year programs, there are dozens of landscape-related design programs offering dynamic instruction that students highly sought-after. While these schools are not at the level of Ivy League colleges or among the top 10 landscape design colleges, they offer landscape design programs that you can use to kickstart your professional career. You can jumpstart your landscaping career by pursuing any of the following programs near you.

• American River College
• Bergen Community College
• Chicago Botanic Gardens
• Columbus State Community College
• The Conway School
• Southwestern College
• Saddleback College

Final Thought!

Today, landscape architecture enjoys greater public visibility, cultural relevance, and potential for professional leadership than at any time in recent history. Accordingly, obtaining an education in landscape architecture from schools with comprehensive programs incorporating practical, abstract, and experiential training is crucial. The above-listed programs have quality landscape architecture programs that meet licensure requirements.

Skip Bins have been around for many years and have been traditionally used by professional contractors. But now, more individuals have started using skip bin hire companies to a large extent as well due to their various benefits. Skips offer homeowners with varying needs an economical, flexible and money-saving option for their waste disposal requirements.

A skip bin is an open-topped container that is often hired to dispose of any kind of refuse. It’s normally placed at the customers’ premises or street in a neighbourhood until it is full, with rubbish being loaded into the container by hand or mechanically with machinery. The most common types of skip bins are those with a capacity of 2 cubic metres, 4 cubic metres and 6 cubic metres and with the largest one can hold up to 30 cubic metres.

There are many reasons why somebody may need to hire a skip. They may be in the midst of a renovation, have accumulated too much waste for their trash bin to accommodate, or need to dispose of an old couch.

Different people will require different skip sizes, depending on the amount and type of waste they produce. If a business has several types of waste that are collected separately, all in large quantities, then hiring two or more skip bins could be the best option. But if they have only one or two small types of waste and large amounts of it, then hiring a bigger skip will be more economical and provide more flexibility.

Economical 

Skip hire is an effective way to manage rubbish at home or work because it can save you money in many ways – skip hire firms may include a loading service for a fee, recycling contents for free and sometimes even delivering them for free as well as offering discounts.

Hiring a skip bin is considerably more economical than renting one, which means it can be reused by different households in the same neighbourhood without having to buy a monthly subscription package. One can hire a skip in any desired size, depending on the size of the garbage they need to dispose of. Not only that but hiring a skip saves time as it arrives at your doorstep ready-to-use!

Varied Size and Varied Waste Skip Bins

Skip bins are used widely for both commercial and residential needs. If you have varied needs, then skip bin sizes provide a range of flexibility to cater to those needs. There are smaller skips intended for small jobs like home renovations or gardening projects, or bigger skips for larger office clearances or house clearances. Whether it is recyclable waste or garden waste, hiring a skip is the most economical and efficient way of disposing of them.

You can find out the skip bin that best suits your waste type needs by getting in touch with the professionals at Skip Bin Finder for more information about their range of skips, which includes skip bins for mixed waste and recyclables as well as other specialised types for different kinds of rubbish such as inflammable waste.

Competitive Price

It is not difficult to find a skip bin supplier nowadays. There are so many companies around the country that offer skips for hire and it is up to the customer to choose their preference in terms of size, type, cost and location. This abundance of competition will naturally create a competitive price and give a big advantage to the consumer.

Takeaway

Skip hire is a practical way to get rid of many kinds of unwanted, bulky items. In recent years, there has been an increased need for hiring a skip because of the rapid growth in construction, renovation and house moving. Skips can store all kinds of waste material before being disposed of by the waste management company – which makes them an economical and flexible option for households. Skip bins are also environmentally friendly because they make sure that no material is wasted for a prolonged period of time.

The average Australian household disposes of 10,000 kilos of rubbish each year, with that figure expected to increase. The suggestion is to hire a skip and make use of it. Skip hire can be a highly economical decision in that it can help you save on time, and money and has the added bonus of being flexible.

If you’ve recently qualified as a garden landscaper, have a passion for horology or you’re simply wanting to help friends and family maintain their gardens, you’ll need the right tools for the job.  

Not sure where to begin? Luckily, we’re rounded up some of the handiest tools on the market so you don’t have to.  

What tools does a landscaper need? 

If you’re one of the 157,000 landscapers in the UK, then you’ll need a toolbox first and foremost. Other than the obvious equipment, a landscaper will also require a varied toolbox including a tape measure, a level and a screwdriver. Landscapers will also need spanners, sockets & wrenches from retailers such as RS. 

Long handed tools  

As well as a selection of hand tools for more involved jobs, you will also need some long-handled tools. When it comes to long-handled tools, we believe the more the merrier as you will be spending the majority of the day using them.  

Some of the most practical hand tools include: 

• Spades  
• Garden forks  
• Rakes  
• Dutch hoe 
• Lawn shears 

When choosing your traditional gardening equipment, try to think about how comfortable each item is. The last thing you want is blisters halfway through your first job!  

A roomy van  

There’s no way you’ll be able to fit all your tools in your family car. And you wouldn’t want to either – it’d get filthy!  

As such, you’ll need a reliable and sturdy vehicle that’s suitable for transporting heavy tools to and from the site. If you have some oversized equipment, you may also want to consider buying a trailer.  

Think about your online presence  

If you’re wondering what an online presence has to do with landscape design, then listen up.  

Although you may overlook this part, having a website is essential when you’re working as a landscape designer. Without having an online presence, your potential customer base won’t be able to find you. If they can’t find you, then you’re seriously limiting your earning potential!  

With a recession on the horizon and inflation increasing, you’ll need all the work you can get to stay afloat.  

Final thoughts… 

If you’re starting out as a landscaper, it can be daunting knowing where to begin when it comes to setting up your business. However, the good news is that with a few handy tools, a van and a shiny new website, you’ll be well on your way to having a successful business.  

A garden rotavator is primarily used for churning up soil and aerating it before seeds are added to the land or new turf is to be laid. But do you really need one? In this article, we’ll explore whether a garden rotavator is worth the money.

When is a Garden Rotavator Needed?

Most homeowners won’t need a garden rotavator or cultivator for lawn maintenance, however, if you have the budget to purchase one and skills and knowledge to safely use one, it is worth considering. In addition, garden rotavators tend to be used in agriculture, but they can be used for gardening, lawn care, and landscaping too.

However, if you need to prepare your soil for seeding or new turf, you will need a garden rotavator or cultivator. Of course, you could hire a professional to undertake this work with their own equipment, rather than purchasing a rotavator yourself. Garden rotavators generally cost somewhere in the range of £200 to £500, although there are more expensive options. It’s possible to hire rotavators for temporary use too.

Benefits of Garden Rotavators

There are a range of advantages to garden rotavators and how relevant these are will depend on the person.

Here are some benefits of using garden rotavators:

• Provides less draft in comparison to conventional tillage.
• Fast-paced seedbed preparation.
• Very useful in agriculture.
• Can maintain the quality of grass in a lawn.
• Makes for a healthier and longer-lasting garden.

With many rotavators costing £500 or less, the advantages mentioned above could certainly make it worth the money. It would, of course, be cheaper to simply shovel and spade the ground. This process involves turning the land over in a totally manual way. With that said, this would involve a ton of work, so if you want to turn over your lawn, it’s best to use a rotavator or hire a professional to use their machine(s).

Best Garden Rotavators

If you determine that a garden rotavator is right for you, you might be wondering what the best options on the market are. Consider a garden rotavator comparison for more in-depth research.

The best light-duty rotavators: *

• Mantis 58V Cultivator Rotavator – £300 to £400
• Mantis 4-Stroke Petrol Deluxe Tiller – £500 to £600
• Dealourus 52CC Garden Petrol Tiller – £150 to £210
• VonHaus Electric 1050W Tiller – £85 to £100
• Stream Electric Garden Tiller, Cultivator & Rotavator – £100 to £120

*If you are a homeowner, you’ll probably need a light-duty rotavator.

The best heavy-duty rotavators: *

• SwitZer Heavy Duty 6.5 HP Portable Petrol Garden Cultivator – £430 to £530
• BU-KO 52CC Garden Petrol Tiller – £130 to £190

*These options are more suitable for agriculture, as are medium duty rotavators. Heavy-duty rotavators are designed for use on harsh land with a large area.

Petrol vs. Electric Rotavators

Notably, rotavators can also be categorized based on their fuel source. Depending on your preferences, you may prefer one of these types over the other. Let’s look at their pros and cons.

Petrol Rotavators

Electric Rotavators

Final Thoughts

Today, we’ve explored who would need a garden rotavator and discussed whether or not it might be worth buying one. We’ve also listed the best garden rotavators on the UK market and compared petrol rotavators with their electric counterparts.

Ultimately, deciding if a garden rotavator is right for you depends on a range of factors. If you need one, then that already answers the question. However, if you don’t, it depends on how concerned you are with maintaining a healthy lawn over time and whether you feel confident that you can use a rotavator effectively and safely. 

Hiring a rotavator is worth the money if you just want to use it once off but if you intend to use a rotavator every so often, it would be better value for money to buy one. If you need one soon but are currently strapped for cash, consider purchasing a garden rotavator on finance.

The process of preparing the ground before planting the lawn seed consists of several steps. It is very important for the growth of grass. The first thing to do is to order the site. You should pick up the debris and trash left on it and do the cleaning. All of these factors can affect soil acidity and influence lawn seed growth.

Another step in the soil preparation process is to break up the soil and test its acidity. It is a good indicator of what type of grass seed to choose for a given type of soil. For best results, the soil should be fertile, aerated, and moderately moist.

Fertilize the soil before sowing the lawn

Be sure to fertilize the soil for a week before planting lawn seed. To do this, use a lawn fertilizer. You can buy both at Moowy. Mix it with the soil as per the manufacturer’s instructions.

The last but equally important step of preparing the soil before planting grass seeds is to roll the soil. This helps level the surface for planting and thickens the soil.

Planting grass seeds – how to do it?

A popular and quick method of planting grass seeds is to do it manually. It involves sowing the grain yourself. To do this, you need to divide the prepared ground into several equal parts.

When planting lawn seeds, it is advised to do so crosswise. In this way the grain is evenly distributed, and the grass can reach optimum density. To make things easier, start planting in one direction, and as you return, distribute the rest in the opposite direction. Rake the ground thoroughly afterwards. It helps cover the seeds with soil, which will protect the sprouts from weather conditions.

How to water the sown lawn seeds?

Another very important part is watering the lawn. To do it correctly, pour a small stream of water on the ground. Water the lawn regularly for two weeks after planting the lawn seeds. The best time to water the lawn is very early in the morning or in the evening, when there is no sun to burn the seeds. Regular watering makes the grass and its roots grow faster.

When to plant lawn seeds?

If you want your lawn to be green and lush, try planting lawn seeds in specific months. When to plant grass or lawn seeds so that they grow fast and well?

Most grass seed species require fall planting. Planting the grass seeds from August to October protects the seeds from heavy rains and high temperatures. Also, the moisture in the soil encourages the grass to sprout and grow

The most common mistakes made when planting lawn seeds

When preparing your lawn, you must pay close attention to every detail of the process. First of all, remember all the rules for preparing the ground, planting and continuing to care for the lawn. Very often, even the smallest mistakes can affect the proper growth of the lawn.

The most common mistakes are:

• Poorly prepared soil and not removing all the elements that may affect growth.
• Do not loosen the soil – which helps in the removal of plant debris that used to grow in the area.
• Insufficient removal of any weeds from the area in which the lawn seed is to be planted. If there are a lot of weeds, you may need to use an herbicide, which will kill the plants from the ground.
• Do not enrich the soil – some types of soil require additional fertilizer. It is particularly important in the case of sandy soils, where a special mixture of peat or compost must be used.
• Choosing the wrong lawn seeds, which are not suitable for garden grass, but rather for meadow grass.
• Uneven planting, resulting in an unattractive looking lawn.
• Not securing the seed after planting, especially in windy weather, which may cause the seed to be lost.
• Insufficient amount of water, which prevents the seeds from sprouting and growing properly.

Lawn seed and Lawn fertilizer is an essential part to make a perfect lawn. For more information regarding lawn seed, you can contact us freely.

A career in landscaping allows you to transform an ordinary outdoor space into something completely different. There are many different career paths in landscaping, with landscape design and landscape architecture being the two most popular.

Landscape architects must have at least a Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture and be licensed by the state. They also work on larger projects, such as commercial buildings, college campuses, parks, resorts, and cemeteries.

Landscape designers typically work on smaller and residential projects. Some landscape designers have a Bachelor’s degree, but others are self-taught. Both designers and architects can also own their own businesses.

Education and Training

As mentioned above, the type of education you receive depends on what type of job you want to do in landscaping. Obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in landscaping will allow you to work as either a landscape designer or landscape architect. You’ll also need to be proficient in computer programs and software such as CAD (computer-aided design), which you’re likely to learn in school. This type of software will allow you to make more precise designs.

Join Professional Organizations

Being a part of industry-specific professional organizations is good for anyone’s career. This allows you to network with other professionals in your industry. Associations like the Association of Professional Landscape Designers can also provide certifications for you after you have enough years of experience in the landscaping industry.

Acquire the Proper Tools and Equipment

Even if you’re employed by an actual landscaping company, it’s still a good idea to acquire a set of your own landscaping tools. Examples of some of the essential tools you’re going to need to include:

• Shovels
• Rakes (steel and leaf)
• Pruning shears
• Hedge trimmers

If you plan on opening your own landscaping business, then you’re going to need many more tools, and you’re also going to need more heavy machinery to effectively run your business.

Lawn Aerator

Lawn aerators will help you keep the ground that you’re working on healthy. They allow the soil to absorb an adequate amount of water and oxygen so that it can get the nutrients it needs.

Lawn Mower

Make sure to invest in a good lawn mower (or two or more) if you plan on starting your own landscaping business. It’s one of the most necessary tools that landscape designers need, so it’s a good idea to go ahead and invest in high-quality lawn mowers.

Leaf Blower

A gas-powered leaf blower can be a lifesaver when it comes to collecting a large amount. Sometimes using a rake will take too long, and you want to be as efficient as possible in your professional career. Even an electric leaf blower doesn’t have as much power as a gas-powered one.

Skid Steer

A skid steer is a machine that is mostly used for digging, but it’s a very versatile piece of equipment that can also be used by landscapers. It has arms that can attach to a wide variety of tools to perform different tasks. The standard attachment is a bucket for clearing snow, but skid steers can also have:

• A trencher for excavating
• A rake for landscaping
• A cement mixer for building and construction work

A skid steer is a great investment for both landscape designers and landscape architects because there is so much that you can do with them.

What to Know About Starting Your Own Business

Before you start your own landscaping business, you should specify which services you’re going to offer, and this may largely depend on whether you’re a landscape architect or a landscape designer. This will also give you a clearer picture of what tools and equipment you’ll need to purchase as well.

Of course, you’ll have to go through all of the usual phases of starting a business: writing a business plan, getting financing for your business, getting business licenses/permits and registering your business, and also obtaining business insurance. You should also be familiar with the basic marketing techniques and should consider hiring other professional landscapers to help you.

Landscapers can easily make over $50,000 a year, whether they’re employed by a landscaping firm or if they’re in business for themselves. The key is to be consistent and invest in your professional career. Obtain the proper education and training, join professional organizations and network with other professional landscapers, and finally, invest in your business (or your craft). Following these steps will allow you to establish yourself in the field of landscape design.

Skid steer post drivers are a necessity on farms today. They are used for a variety of tasks, from planting and harvesting to fence post and post-hole driving.

Before skid steer post drivers were popular, farmers relied on horses and buggy to perform these tasks. With the advent of the motor vehicle, horse and buggy transportation became less common. Skid steer post drivers have made this type of labor more efficient and less time-consuming.

There are a few reasons why having a skid steer post driver on your farm is a necessity.

Great For Planting And Harvesting

A skid steer post driver is a great piece of equipment for planting and harvesting. It is versatile and can be used to plant crops or harvest fruits and vegetables in your garden. This machine is also great for moving large objects, such as logs or lumber.

Great For Fence Post and Post-Hole Driving

A skid steer post driver is an essential piece of equipment for those in the fence post and post-hole driving industry. Skid steer post drivers are great for quickly moving fence posts and other objects into place, making them an ideal choice for jobs such as installing new fencing or repairing existing fencing. The machine’s powerful engine and durable construction make it a reliable option for these types of jobs, ensuring that your work is done quickly and efficiently.

Great For Post-Pounder Work

A skid steer post driver is a great option for those in the post-pounder industry. This machine is perfect for moving large objects, such as posts and lumber, into place. The machine’s powerful engine and durable construction make it a reliable option for jobs such as this, ensuring that your work is done quickly and efficiently.

Fast And Efficient Grounds Work

There are many reasons why grounds maintenance is an important part of any agricultural operation. Not only does it keep the areas around the facility clean and free from debris, but it also helps to prevent diseases from spreading. Skid steer post drivers can be very helpful when it comes to this type of work. They are capable of moving large amounts of soil and debris quickly and efficiently, which makes them a valuable asset when it comes to keeping the grounds in good condition.

Purchasing A Post Driver

When it comes to purchasing a post driver, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure the machine you’re looking at has the capabilities you need. Second, be sure to get an estimate of how much it will cost to operate and maintain the machine. And finally, be sure to find a reputable dealer who can provide quality service and support for your post driver.

Repairing and Maintaining Your Post Driver

The skid steer post driver is a heavy-duty piece of equipment that can be used in a variety of industries. It is important to keep your post driver in good condition so that it can continue to operate efficiently. Check your oil, air filter, and spark plug regularly. And if there is any sign of wear or tear, don’t hesitate to contact a dealer or repair service to get your machine up and running again.

Being Safe With Your Post Driver

Skid steer post drivers are extremely versatile machines, capable of handling a wide range of tasks. However, like any machine, skid steer post drivers can be dangerous if not used correctly. When operating a skid steer post driver, it is important to take into account the following safety tips:

Always wear protective equipment: A helmet, Gloves, and Safety Glasses are all essential safety gear when operating a skid steer post driver. If you are not wearing these items, you should at least have them close at hand in case of an accident.

Stay away from obstacles: When working with a skid steer post driver, it is important to stay clear of obstacles. If you encounter an obstacle while operating the machine, slow down and avoid contact. If contact is made, use the brakes to stop the machine as quickly as possible.

Watch for other traffic: When working with a skid steer post driver on busy streets or construction sites it is important to watch for other vehicles and pedestrians. Stay alert and keep your head up when operating your machine.

By following these simple safety tips, you can avoid accidents and ensure a safe working environment for your farm. 

Wanting your exteriors to look exquisite, it is only natural that you will also focus on the surroundings of your house. After all, a beautiful, well-maintained backyard will only enhance the charm of your property, and it can be the perfect place to spend your leisure time surrounded by nature. That is why so many people are devoted and spend so much time improving their gardens.

Whether you are designing a backyard from scratch for a new property or you want to get your outdoor space ready for spring, your project will need to plan carefully for each element. Unfortunately, it might not be the easiest process, and you have to consider things like the site, your needs, form, theme, plants, and the time it will take for your garden to grow.

Your goal is to create an aesthetically pleasing and functional space. To ensure that your backyard satisfies your needs, here are some things you should consider in your design. Check them out! Here is a link to, pool remodeling services

Understand Your Site

One thing you should always do is to consider the size of your property because it can greatly affect the layout and design of your backyard. If you are not quite familiar with the lay of your land, you can easily arrange a meeting with a professional. To have a great design, you need to take into account things like drainage, sunlight exposure, moisture level, and soil pH. Also, do not forget to think about potential hazards like nearby structures prone to storm damage.

Know Your User’s Needs

Your backyard will be an extension of your home, and it needs to be functional as well. That is why you need to know how you will use it and how much time you will spend there. It can help you decide on the type of plants and materials that you should use in your design.

For example, if you want a place for relaxation, then you should think about adding comfortable seating arrangements and maybe even a fire pit. If you want a space for entertaining guests, then you might want to add a barbeque area or a swimming pool. Think about the types of activities you will conduct in your garden, such as gardening or cooking, and give yourself enough privacy so that you can enjoy your time without worrying about being disturbed by people passing by or peering from behind the windows.

For kids, a playground might be the ideal element. You can build them a treehouse or an obstacle course, or just make sure that they have their own section of the garden where they can play without worrying too much about breaking things or getting hurt.

Choose Your Theme

When it comes to designing your backyard, you need to create coherency between all the elements. That is why it is best to start from the overall concept first before deciding on the details, such as the color scheme and plants.

You don’t have to stick with one theme, but having a specific style in mind for your landscape design will help you decide what materials to use for your project, as well as how to arrange everything. There are several design elements that you can use when creating a landscape for your property, including:

Garden Design Elements

There are plenty of elements you can use to enhance your backyard, such as hardscapes, water features, lighting, walls, and fences. With proper planning, these elements will create a more functional space and will enhance the visual appeal of your garden. For example, installing fences or walls between different sections of your property will not only improve the appearance of your garden but can also offer privacy and security.

Color Scheme

You can also choose certain colors that will reflect the mood you want to achieve in your garden. For example, earth tones can give you a natural look, while vibrant colors can make your space feel alive and playful. Specifically, look at things like foliage plants that are available in different shades of green that you can incorporate into your design.

Plant Selection

You can find tons of plants that you can use in your garden, such as grasses and flowering plants. These elements are essential in improving the aesthetics of your property while also providing other benefits. You can plant trees that provide cool shade during hot summer days or citrus plants that will help attract wildlife to your garden.

Functional Components

You can incorporate elements or structures that will serve a purpose in your garden, such as raised beds for gardening or a gazebo for seating. Make sure to choose materials that are easy to care for, and that can withstand harsh weather conditions. To make the most out of your backyard, you should consider having a nice pavement that links specific areas.

Take Time Frame Into Account

You should also think about how long it will take for your garden to grow and mature. If you want an instant result, then you can choose plants that require little to no maintenance. Some plants will need more time to grow to a considerable size, and you should ensure that they have enough space as overcrowded plants might not grow or produce as well. You can also incorporate some elements like pots or trellises for climbing plants that can instantly add color to your garden.

In Conclusion

Designing your backyard landscape can be fun and exciting, but it can also be a challenge. That is why you need to plan ahead and know what you want before you start doing anything else. Review your site, know your needs and wants, choose a theme, and determine when you can work on your project. You will then be able to create a garden that you will love and that will enhance the appeal of your home.

The landscaping business industry experienced a growth rate of 2.5% between 2016-2021 with demand fueled by the outdoor trend, water conservation, and environmental issues. Commercial businesses require landscaping services to improve the curb appeal of their properties, entice customers to enter the premises and create a good first impression. From landscape design to management, there are several improvement options that your business can avail of to attract traffic, improve safety and security, and support sustainability.

Click this link for professional landscapers

Design and Planning

One of the most important services that a landscaping company offers is to design and plan the outdoor site of a commercial property. The design of your outside premises will increase its curb appeal making your business pleasing to customers. A professional landscaper will know where to put and arrange the appropriate plants for your location. For example, Alabama falls under zone 8a. Hence, plants and grass that thrive in Tuscaloosa city will not grow in the same manner when put in the colder climate of Wyoming or Minnesota. Planting, trimming, and mulching is other services that landscapers provide following the company’s design.

Lawn Care and Maintenance Services

If your outdoor area is already established, you might just need care and maintenance services. Mowing, aeration, and weed control are part of the package in addition to tree and shrub care. The advantage of using an enterprise to maintain your outdoor area is that they have the right tools and equipment to do the job quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, the landscaping firm will also ensure that your lawn is healthy and therefore, puts in place a regular fertilization schedule. Fungicide treatments may also be applied to keep the grass, plants, trees, and shrubs disease-free. Unhealthy trees are not only eyesores, but they can also be dangerous to the safety of your clients and company if they are uprooted or big branches fall off.

Water Management and Irrigation

Ideally, water-wise plants should be rooted in your landscaped garden. Landscapers will not only select the right plants for your climate, but they will also create zones based on the amount of supplemental water that the vegetation needs. Hence, a high-use zone is an area that is planted to annuals and borders that should get water whenever they need it because the lack of it will lead to stress or death. A ‘medium-use’ zone may contain plants such as perennial borders that have a good tolerance for droughts while plants in the low-use zone will not receive extra water except during the time that they are being established. Once the roots are in place, rainfall and moisture in the air are their only sources of hydration. Part of the landscaping company’s job is to improve the soil to enhance water-holding capacity and to mulch for water conservation and weed control. Finally, proper irrigation techniques will be used including drip systems to provide water, when necessary, in an efficient way.

Landscape design, lawn care and maintenance, and water management are services that landscaping companies offer to businesses and commercial properties. Outdoor improvement and renovation can improve curb appeal, catch the attention of clients, and even increase the value of the business.

Bird species are dwindling across the globe, with forests in the US and Canada alone having lost one billion birds and nearly three billion in total since 1970—as found in a Cornell University study. Common birds—those you may have seen in your yard in your youth—are the most affected, since over 90% of losses arise from common birds like sparrows, warblers, and blackbirds. If you want to ensure the survival of common birds species in your area, optimal garden design can help you achieve your aim. Read on to discover a few small changes that can make a big difference.

Planting Native Species

Native plants enable wildlife such as birds to thrive, thanks to their nectar, acorns and nuts, seeds, fleshy fruits, and insects. In order to work out the optimal combination of plants for your yard, it is vital to research the different wild birds that are native to your area. Study the different species and take note of the preferences of any endangered bird species you wish to help proliferate. Sparrows, for instance, are attracted to blackberries and wild grasses, finches take to pines, spruces, hemlocks, coyote bush spruces, and composite flowers, while warblers are known to favor maples, oaks, American elderberries, and serviceberries. Some of these trees are chosen for nesting, others for their fruit, so try to create a garden that combines both types of plants or trees.

Sticking to Organic Growing Principles

Birds are vulnerable to the immense harm that pesticides can cause. Birds can either swallow pesticides directly, drink tainted water, or absorb toxins to the skin. This can have an array of effects, including deformed embryos, lack of appetite and weight loss, suppressed immunity, greater vulnerability to predators, and the inability to orientate correctly for migration. Organic, gentler alternatives to pesticides include companion planting (which can keep specific pests at bay) and soft chemicals (like rhubarbs, stinging nettles, and soap). For a small yard, try plant oils like rosemary, geranium, thyme, rosemary, lemongrass, and lavender. You can also consult gardening specialists about parasites that may be useful for targeting specific host insects. Finally, some predators can help reduce pest populations. These include frogs and lacewings. As your yard begins to fill with birds, you will find that they, too, help reduce the presence of pests.

Adding Active Water Features to Your Garden

Once again, it is important to study the specific needs of native birds. Warblers, for instance, are attracted to running water, so adding a fountain to your garden may increase their presence (and that of many other beautiful birds). You can additionally set up a birdbath where birds can enjoy a bath on a hot summer’s day. When choosing your bath, remember that although smaller baths are easier to clean, the larger the bath, the more birds you are likely to attract. You should also prioritize height since high baths enable birds to frolic while still keeping an eye out for predators. Your chosen fountains and baths should be made in materials that will withstand challenging weather. If you live in a cold zone, avoid resin baths, which can crack in the winter.

Many bird species are in danger because they don’t have enough green spaces. Designing a bird-friendly garden will take time and a small investment, as you will need to cater your landscaping features to the need of specific birds. In addition to planting suitable plants and trees, remember to give water features the importance they deserve.

One of the best things about SoCal life is that a lush Mediterranean dream can always come true, which is why it’s easy to find a list of the best outdoor potted plants for Southern California.

It just seems to be quite the statement to have patio plants to pair with the serene setup of your home, and we have just a few helpful tips for you if you’re already ready to expand your green thumb’s capabilities for a much bigger space.

1. Bask in the Light

You may already know that not all plants love the sun. There are some who prefer breathing under a shade. Before you decide to buy plants for your patio, plan out where you want to place them.

Plants that thrive in full sunlight are those that enjoy a good six to eight hours of basking. On the other hand, those that love being under the shade need only an hour to two of direct sunlight.

It will be good for both visual appeal and ecology that you have a balance of plants that require full sunlight and some that thrive in full shade. This way, you have space to sit down and relax on the patio, as this avoids cramping all of your plants to a single area or side.

2. Make Room for Growth

Compared to growing plants indoors, a patio space is a win.

Work well with the space as you consider not just how many or how much more you can add to your growing nursery, but more so, that you still need space for your own furniture and also for the plants’ growth.

Because a patio gives you not just floor space or possible shelves but also the space to work with hanging plants, you can maximize this to create an aesthetic flora and fauna in the confines of your own home.

However, also remember that hanging plants can create or add more shadows to your patio. Ensure that plants that require full sunlight will still be able to access their healthy dose.

Additionally, because of the bigger room that you can have on a patio, you can check out a more comprehensive array of pots and containers that you can choose from for the plants you’ll be having.

3. Be in the Zone

Another great thing about SoCal is that the entire state has its own planting zones. California is known as a state for growing both food and plants all year round, and SoCal’s specific planting zones are 5A to11A.

Knowing which one is nearest to your home will help you plan ahead and learn which specific plants thrive during particular seasons. These are also where you can purchase new plants.

Planting zones study the changes of temperature and weather within the state itself and thus, be able to predict the specific plants that are strongly suggested for when you make your plan come into fruition.

This is also a great learning tool for you if you want to keep developing your green thumb, as these zones do not only discuss plants for your home but also flowers and all forms of vegetation.

4. Consider Flowers and Vegetation

Since a patio gives you the ability to plant outdoors, you can diversify your plants by also looking into growing your own flowers or even fruits and vegetables.

This part is exciting as you get to practice a micro-scale of agri-farming by enabling you to grow your own food. You also get to learn more about farm-to-table practices while you’re doing this.

Growing your own flowers also reminds you about the importance of other life forms outside of you and your plant. You get to interact with the bees that help your plants grow with you.

Suppose you’re conscious about your carbon footprint. In that case, this upgrade to your nursery elevates that consciousness to a much bigger scale by allowing you to participate firsthand in how the rest of the planet grows, even within the small space of your own patio.

5. Reconnect With the Space

Your patio becomes an entirely different space to your home when it has new life within it. It no longer becomes just another room for you, but it becomes a space for reconnecting.

With plants in your patio, you get to be in touch again, not just with our environment, but the plants in your deck will exude breathing room for you to have a clear mind.

If you live alone, this is not just a space to take a break, but the commitment itself to take care of plants will also allow you to join a growing community of plant lovers.

If you’ve got a talent for reshaping gardens, then you might be tempted to start a career as a landscaper. It’s something that there’s considerable demand for – given that gardens have a natural tendency to become overgrown and to generally fall into disrepair.

But to succeed as a landscaper, you’ll need the skills to achieve respectable results. Moreover, you’ll need to be able to market yourself and liaise effectively with clients and sub-contractors. Perhaps most importantly, you’ll need a few basic business skills.

Let’s take a look at a few steps you’ll want to take before getting your landscaping business off the ground.

Preparation

People who start profitable landscaping businesses tend to have experience in the industry, to begin with. But this isn’t necessarily a requirement. If you’re willing to pick up the skills by working in your own garden, and working at first for friends and family, you can gradually pick up the skills you need.

To keep yourself covered, you’ll need to be qualified for all of the services you’re going to offer.  You’ll need to be aware of any risks posed by equipment and materials like pesticides. You’ll need to appraise your customers of these risks and take precautions in the form of protective clothing.

You’ll also need professional indemnity insurance, to cover yourself against potential mishaps. The equipment you’ve invested in will also need to be covered.

Find Customers

You can and should promote your business via multiple avenues. Look into print advertising that can be posted through local front doors. Think also about word of mouth, which may be your most powerful means of spreading a message. Most of your customers are going to be local, so be sure to promote your business as such.

On the Job

While you’re on the job, you’ll need to do a whole range of different tasks. It’s partly for this reason that the job is so satisfying. You may need to occasionally work from plans laid out by designers and landscape architects. You might need to install paving and water features, prepare the ground and prune trees and shrubs. But you’ll also need to be able to direct and instruct your workers to do the same thing, both verbally and via posters and other messaging, which can be used to promote safe practice. Make sure that you have a robust supply chain in place. If you can’t work because of a lack of basic materials and equipment, then you’ll end up losing money in the long term.

Progression

As your business grows, and you gain experience as a manager and a landscaper, you’ll be able to secure larger and more lucrative contracts. This can sometimes throw up legal difficulties. You’ll need to pay closer attention to your health and safety responsibilities, and possibly hire a dedicated solicitor to address them.

Thanks to the marvels of lithium-ion battery technology, power tools have gotten a great deal more mobile over the past decade or so. This advantage is particularly noticeable if you’re using your tools outdoors, where there isn’t always easy access to a power outlet.

If you’re in the market for a hedge trimmer, then you might wonder whether it’s worth investing in something cordless – or whether it’s better to go for a traditional corded one, instead.

For gardeners, a hedge-trimmer is a fairly indispensable piece of equipment. You want yours to be easy to use – that way, you can be sure that you’ll stay on top of the task of keeping your hedge in good condition.

But is a cordless hedge trimmer worth it? Let’s take a look.

Why Go Corded?

Corded trimmers tend to offer more power than their battery-powered equivalents. This means that you’ll be able to get the job done faster, often using less power overall. You also won’t have to worry about the environmental cost of creating the batteries in the first place.

Since you won’t need to charge a battery, corded trimmers can also be much more convenient. You just pick up the device, plug it in, and get going. What could be simpler?

Why Go Cordless?

Going cordless can be incredibly liberating. You’re no longer tethered to the power outlet, and you don’t have to invest in another extension cord. Just remember to keep your battery charged, and to keep a spare one so that you can rotate and work uninterrupted.

Then there’s the problem of the cord itself, which can be a trip hazard. If you manage to cut through a cord, then you face a costly fix – and, naturally, you put yourself in danger. Given that the tool in question features a set of reciprocating teeth, this is an issue.

On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries tend to lose their ability to dispense power and hold a charge over time, which means that your hedge trimmer won’t ever be as powerful as it was on the day that you bought it.

While you can buy replacement batteries later, and most batteries are compatible with those of the same manufacturer, this is a little bit of an inconvenience. If you do shop for replacement batteries, make sure that you match the voltage, the amperage, and the polarity.

Want to make your home a tremendous place of living? It is a pain with no assistance from a professional landscape engineer! Read further on how to find only the best one.

In case you’re considering collaboration with a landscape designer, revealing the perfect fit (plus preventing the unexpected midway through the project) strongly depends on your knowledge regarding which questions to ask at the initial stage of your potential partnership. Meet 10 best queries you should ask before you delegate your home to a landscape engineer.

Seeking the greatest hiring places to initiate the search process of a landscape designer? It would be ideal to evaluate landscape design companies at Engre. Landscape engineers at B2B engineering marketplaces can do everything, starting from the support in choosing the right color of the flowers in a garden to constructing a terrace leading to the garden.

Can You Depict the Process in Details?

Begin the interview by asking a landscape designer regarding the whole development procedure from start to finish. It is vital to know the phases, from scheduling to installation. Discover the number of in-person appointments to expect. Ask whether certain consultations can be held via phone calls.

In case you want a guaranteed service to interact throughout the design process, ask a landscape designer the ideal method and period to communicate queries and challenges.

Can You Demo Samples of Your Former Solutions?

For example, in case you want a contemporary, sustainable city garden, ask whether they have designed any before.

As an option, if a specialist’s portfolio has nothing connected with the particular style you expect, monitor their credentials for proof of the education/training to bring the vision of your project to life.

Who Will Join in the Process?

A landscape designer’s process is based on the services they deliver. Getting to know who else will take part in the process to control each stage from the beginning is crucial for you to understand what to expect once the solution is finished. In case you are lucky to have a team of 2-4 landscape design specialists, ask who the key person is to negotiate modifications to the project or other significant cases.

How About My Solution’s Budget?

Frank communication about the estimated landscape project cost is a must. Ask a landscape designer for detailed pricing specifics for the development and the installation. The majority of installation estimates are created by landscape specialists depending on the cost per square foot of a designed area

Is My Project Vision Clear to You?

Find time to discuss with a potential landscape designer what your dream yard looks like and the scale of yard maintenance you are ready to undertake.

Check Pinterest or other resources to share samples of landscape projects you love. This will help you to explain what is in your mind. With this data, a landscape designer will prepare a 3D rendering of what your novel landscape will look like.

Ask then to explain the rendering to you to ensure both of you are in sync.

Where Do You Purchase Trees, Flowers, Etc.?

Though you don’t obligatory have to order local species, ensure that a landscape designer applies plants grown in your city. What for?

• Local plants usually cost less while plants from abroad can cost you a fortune;
• Such plants have more chances to survive as they don’t have to adapt to novel growing conditions. Moreover, they will be more resistant to pests and diseases;
• Local plants need less maintenance (they don’t require additional watering and care from your landscape services team).

What Deadlines You Need to Estimate the Solution?

Similar to any other home optimization solution, bad weather, and other unexpected issues can happen. So, you should be ready that the release dates for landscaping solutions can be complicated to determine. Don’t forget to let a landscape designer know whether you possess any deadlines (for instance, a planned party in the yard).

However, always remember about schedule-changing events that nobody can predict. Anyway, have a detailed communication with a landscape designer regarding all those things.

What Will Be a Typical Day for a Landscape Team on My Yard?

Planning conflicts frequently happen. However, you should ask the leader of the landscape team for a general idea regarding the timing to expect the landscape team to come and leave daily.

What Can You Recommend to Save My Budget?

Decks or patios are traditionally more costly compared to planted garden locations. That is why the higher percentage of hardscape you have in the 3D rendering, the more it will cost to install. Furthermore, the materials implemented for hardscape greatly vary in terms of installation specifics.

It is perfect to discuss the approaches to minimize the project cost to stay on budget with a landscape designer during the initial plan.

What Is a Must to Perform at the Moment and Later?

Ask a landscape designer what can be realized immediately to optimize your project and what is better to finalize at a later date. You will get a better idea of what aspects you should put in priority this season and what to start during the next one.

Your yard is the perfect place to spend time with family and friends, relax, and enjoy life. However, to truly enjoy your space, you must have a clean and tidy outside space. If your lawn and garden need some attention and clean-up, there are a few tips that will help you along the way.

Initial Clean-Up

If it has been a while since you spent time cleaning up your yard, now is a good time to play catch up. Take some time to clear any leaves and debris, remove dead plants, and get rid of anything you no longer want or use. It may be a good time to rent a dumpster for all the items you are getting rid of, which will make the clean-up process faster and easier. Use this dumpster rental guide to know what size and type of bin to choose.

Focus on Your Lawn

Once you have cleared away leaves, branches, and debris, it’s time to turn your focus to the lawn. It’s necessary to trim it regularly to keep it healthy. For the best results, you should know the right grass care methods.

A helpful tip is to make sure you never cut your grass over one-third of the existing height. It’s also a good idea to set the mower deck higher and spread out how often you mow as the weather gets drier and hotter. The final mowing for the season should occur when the temperature has dropped and stayed under 50 degrees. 

Spread Mulch

If your mulch seems thin, old, or dull, now is time to add more. While you don’t have to do this all the time, adding a new layer of mulch can help your yard look fresh and revived immediately. Remember that mulch can be beneficial for more than just tree patches and flowerbeds. Consider adding a layer around the front garden areas and your mailbox. This can add quite a bit of curb appeal to your outside area.

Fix Any Broken Structures

If you have a shed, fence, hardscape patio, or deck, you need to check it for cosmetic and safety issues each year. Be sure your lawn is dry and that the snow and rain have passed. This gives your yard ample time to settle, giving you time to plan what fixes you need to make.

Trim Your Shrubs and Bushes

Some yard excerpts recommend that you trim your shrubs before they start to bloom in the spring to easily see the dead parts of the plant. Others state you need to wait until they have grown and bloomed for the season, which allows you to trim and shape them. In either case, it depends on your yard and needs.

Regrow the Patches in Your Lawn

Your lawn can take a beating through the year, and some patches may appear. It doesn’t matter if you have a small area to replace or a larger area, remove any leaves or other debris first.

The most important aspect of ongoing lawn care to remember is that grass is a plant and grows best in the right conditions and healthy soil. It’s a good idea to overseed, which will help thicken up your lawn.

Improving Your Lawn and Garden

A few tips can help you improve the look and health of your lawn and garden. Keep the tips above in mind for the best possible results.

If you’ve ever driven by a home and had to stop, get out of the car, and look around at the beauty of the landscape, this is what’s referred to as “curb appeal.” And this is one of the biggest selling points of any home on the market today.

When it comes to vacation rentals, curb appeal is one of the biggest attractors for potential customers who may want to rent your property. And landscaping is the key to creating this type of appeal.

Vacation rentals are supposed to be getaways for vacationers who simply want to leave their lives behind and indulge in nice, new scenery in a great location. And the more work you put into your landscape, the easier it will be to attract vacationers from all walks of life.

If you’re looking to get more value (and renters) out of your vacation property, the following will offer some helpful landscaping advice.

Pathways

One of the best ways to sculpt the landscape and tie it into the property itself is to have pathways or pavers which lead to different areas of the property. And studies have shown that landscapes with walkways, pavers, or other stylized pathways, are much more valuable than those without.

When vacationers are on the hunt for vacation properties to rent, believe it or not, all of the little details are taken into consideration. And when you have a property that looks amazing on your online listing, this will make a potential customer stop and view your property.

Landscaping your property with pathways offers a means to walk the grounds and explore the landscape up close, without having to worry about walking on the grass or getting mud on your shoes. And this can also add great value to your vacation rental as well.

Gardens

Adding a floral garden to your landscape is a great way to add color to the overall design of the property itself. And it also makes your property all the more inviting and beautiful.

The truth is, even planting smaller gardens is a great strategy to add appeal and value to your vacation property. And you can place these around the property in many different locations to add a bit of color to areas that might be otherwise dull or lifeless.

Gardens are also great for the soil and can be looked at as selling points to make your vacation rental listing much more attractive when a potential customer views it online.

Additionally, if you take your garden to the next level by adding expensive flowers, such as a rose garden, you’ll add even greater appeal, and your property will be much more fragrant as well.

Decks and Porches

Every home needs a gathering space or two. And having a deck or a nice inviting porch to welcome guests, friends, or family is a great addition to consider.

A deck or porch not only adds gathering space to your property, but it also adds a good bit of value. For example, if you were to spend 10,000 dollars on a deck or a porch, you could factor that amount into your overall property value. And though this will fluctuate over time, you’ll still be adding significant value.

Decks and porches should also be able to tie into the overall design of the property. Basically, you’ll want to have your deck or porch match the design of the home itself so that they don’t look out of place. And once you have a cohesive design, your curb appeal (and the appeal of your listing) will be much greater than before.

Landscaping is perhaps one of the most cost-effective methods for adding value to a property. And even simply adding grass seed and fertilizer can actually work wonders for your curb appeal. All it takes is a little bit at a time, and you’ll be easily able to add significant value to your property through landscaping design.

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, a love for the outdoors, and are crafty with your hands, diving into the landscaping industry can be a lucrative and fulfilling career path. Starting a landscaping business gives you the freedom of being your own boss while allowing you to connect with nature and provide a helpful service to your community. While getting your landscaping business up and running is a simple process, it is essential to lay a strong foundation for your company by investing in quality equipment.

So whether you are thinking about starting a landscaping business or just have questions about the best lawn care tools, here are the essentials you need to start a successful landscaping company today.

Work Truck

One of the most important things any successful landscaping business needs is a reliable work truck. Your truck will not only get you from job to job but carry your tools and your crew. However, it is important to note that your truck is also a representation of your business and yourself. Therefore, it is essential to keep your truck clean and maintained. Many landscapers drive around in beat-up dirty work trucks, so keeping yours sharp not only looks professional but helps you stand out among your competition.

Rent Your Work Truck

Investing in brand new work trucks can be challenging, especially when you are trying to get your business up and running. Instead, consider renting your next company truck. Renting your work trucks allows you to keep up with the latest technologies and truck models without breaking the bank.

Trailers

To run a successful landscaping business, you’ll also need at least two trailers. You’ll need a utility trailer to carry your heavy landscaping equipment and tools. In addition, investing in a dump trailer will help you haul materials like mulch and topsoil and take away debris like leaves and branches.

Powered Lawn Equipment

While powered lawn equipment can be quite an investment, they are essential for operating a successful landscaping business. Without breaking your budget, it is important to purchase the best quality power equipment you can find. Not only will quality equipment last long longer with fewer repairs, but it will allow you to do the best job possible. The higher quality your work is, the quicker you’ll see a return on your investment for the equipment.

Lawnmowers

No landscaping business is complete without a quality lawnmower. Consider investing in a ride-on zero turn mower for your large flat lawns and a commercial walk behind for the small properties with hills. However, if you are inexperienced with lawnmowers, it is essential to understand lawnmower safety to ensure the safety of you and your crew.

Weed Whacker

Aside from the lawnmower, a weed whacker is one of the most critical pieces of power equipment for your landscaping business. You’ll need a weed whacker to trim the permitter of each lawn, as well as spots the mower can’t reach, like tight corners and around the mailbox and flower beds.

Leaf Blower

While a leaf blower is essential for leaf clean-ups and lawn maintenance, you’ll need it for every kind of job, from plantings to mulch jobs and patio jobs. You never want to leave a client’s property messy. A gas-powered leaf blower will help you clear off lawns, driveways, sidewalks, decks, and more from leaves, spilled dirt, grass trimmings, and other debris.

Hedge Trimmer

Many customers who want their lawn taken care of will ask you to trim their bushes and small trees. A hedge trimmer helps you trim and shape hedges with ease.

Hand Tools

Aside from power tools, every landscaper needs a solid arsenal of hand tools. The necessities consist of shovels, rakes, pruning sheers, wheelbarrows, tarps, and buckets. Just like power tools, it is crucial to invest in quality hand tools. Look for tools with strong wooden handles instead of tools made of plastic.

Investing in these tools will help you get your landscaping business up and running.  As long as you invest in quality equipment, work hard, and stay committed, you’ll have a successful landscaping career.

Folks living in the arid area of the Southwest USA know full well how hard it is to grow a full, lush lawn in those conditions. It is difficult even when trying different drought-proof hybrids of grass. So difficult, in fact, that many people turn to install artificial turf.

Now that other parts of the country are seeing some difficulties, those people there are beginning to look into whether it makes sense for them too. In many cases, there is little downside to having one but it does pay to know what you’re getting into so you can make an informed decision if it is the best move for you.

In this article, we will go over the pros and cons so you can see if getting an artificial lawn is your best option.

Pros of an Artificial Lawn

People that haven’t heard much about artificial lawns likely still think of how it used to be back in the 60s and 70s when it was first being used in sporting arenas. These days it has come a long way and it is much different than it used to be. Once they realize that the turf of old is long gone and things are different now they will want to know what the benefits are.

First and foremost you’ll have an attractive lawn that requires very minimal maintenance. Since it is fake, it doesn’t dry out when it is hot. With more frequent heatwaves hitting the country and the water bans that follow, it is difficult to maintain a green lawn. Those days are over with artificial turf.

There is also no need to be using any pesticides or herbicides on the lawn. This makes it a much safer environment for pets and children. There are no pests that can burrow in the turf and cause problems both for your lawn and for your pets and children by having them around. And you won’t have pesky weeds that are difficult to eradicate when you want to avoid using an herbicide.

It doesn’t matter what type of environment or climate you live in. The lawn can handle direct sun as well as shade. If you live in an arid area it won’t dry out. And those that live in a spot with far too much water for a regular grass lawn to survive will also benefit.

Lastly, it takes a day to repair a bad lawn when you go with artificial grass. If you have a lawn that needs to be repaired it can take over a year for it to come back and look good. This includes if you buy sod to have it done quickly since it takes a while to look natural and not have the cut lines between the rolls visible.

Cons of an Artificial Lawn

There are hardly any downsides to installing an artificial lawn. However, that doesn’t mean that it is going to work for everybody. There may be a disadvantage that stands out to you and makes you have to reconsider.

The most obvious disadvantage to getting an artificial lawn is the upfront cost. It can cost upwards of $12 per square foot to install. A big lawn can cost a small fortune putting it out of reach of many Americans. There are few ongoing costs, except for one. Every few years you’ll need to buy some infill as an anti-shock layer as it compresses.

The next disadvantage is how hot the turf can get. Since it doesn’t have any water in it like a blade of grass, it heats up quickly and stays hot for a while.  If the lawn is in the shade it stays cool, however.

What Is the Maintenance Like?

Luckily, maintaining a turf lawn is far easier than a real one. It takes cleaning it occasionally and brushing it up so it looks clean and natural. Raking it up in the high traffic areas will prevent it from matting and getting compressed.

Planting some trees around the lawn will provide shade and cool down the surrounding air so the lawn doesn’t heat up. After all, you do want to be able to walk around barefoot in the yard.

When you need to clean it off, it is as simple as rinsing it off with a hose. Food dropping on the lawn can cause a stain so it is important to wash it off, but at least it will be easier than if it fell into some long grass.

Trees are essential assets to properties, adding beauty and shade while stopping soil erosion. However, when a tree becomes a liability, it must be removed. When a tree is damaged, dead, leaning, or too near to your house, a tree removal service can dispose of it for you.

Whether it’s big or small, removing a tree is best left to the experts. But the question is, how much will it cost you? Tree removal services are usually priced based on the size and height of the tree.

But other factors impact the removal costs, as well.

Average Cost

For tree removal services, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $2,000. The prices largely depend on the size of the tree. The bigger the tree, the more expensive the tree removal service is.

Factors That Impact The Cost

As mentioned, bigger trees cost more to remove since they require more powerful equipment. Plus, the process is riskier, and there is more stuff to dispose of. Even so, other things go into deciding the price of removing a tree.

Tree Species, Volume, and Height

Volume, height, and tree species are closely related when it comes to determining the price of tree removal. For example, pine trees and maple trees tend to grow up to 100 feet and can cost at least $2,000 to remove.

Another thing, oaks tend to grow twenty feet lower than pines and maples. As such, they’ll likely cost at least $800 to $1,500 to remove. Keep in mind that height is not the only deciding factor.

Mediterranean cypress can go up to 50 feet high. However, their shallow root systems, low volume, and thin trunks make them easier to remove. Sometimes, they can safely be pulled out and tipped over. The price of removing this type of tree is much lower, about $400.

In another example, palm tree removal costs are at the lower end of the scale because they lack volume even though they are tall.

Health Of The Tree

An unstable or dead tree can be a safety hazard to your family, property, and other trees. Compromised trees may be less expensive to remove since they are easier to cut down. However, it could quickly become expensive if placed in a risky position and could cause harm if it falls.

To get a quote in this particular situation, make sure to arrange an inspection with a tree removal service such as Tree Triage’s tree removal services. What’s more, a fallen tree is more affordable to remove than a living tree as long as it has not caused an emergency.

Physical Obstacles

Physical obstructions can make the most uncomplicated removal hard and challenging. The following are some hindrances that surcharge the cost of tree removal:

• Nearby trees
• Muddy or rocky soil
• Steep property
• Limited vehicle access
• Not enough space for the tree to fall on
• Poor tree condition

Urgency

Emergency tree removal, as with other emergency services, will come at a hefty price. Generally, it will cost at least three times more than the regular price. Also, emergency tree removal is riskier because experts will have to be extra careful not to instigate more damage.

Prices will vary by the contractor and by the situation, although prices can quickly reach up to $5,000.

Crane Rental

If a tree removal requires a crane, you may need to pay another $250 to $600 per day to the total price. Also, you will need to pay another $100 for the operator. Crane-assisted tree removal is the most difficult to do because of the following:

• Plumbing pipes
• Power lines
• Experts have to use rope and climbing equipment
• Time and grunt work involved in removing the tree

Stump Removal

Once the tree is removed, the tree stump remains. Naturally, stumps will decompose on their own. However, it’s only possible after several years. Throughout this time, new buds and twigs might even develop from the tree stump.

With that said, removing the stump is important. The average cost of stump grinding is around $300 to $400.

Location

Residing in a secluded area is great for peace and quiet. However, a tree removal service will usually charge for the travel. Of course, this differs widely. As such, it is quite impossible to give an idea of the price. If you are located in Oahu you can try Oahu Tree Removal.

Traffic Control

If a street must be partially or entirely closed down, the cost of flaggers, corners, and traffic control will add to the total price of the removal service. On average, expect to pay at least $175 for a two-person flagging crew.

In Conclusion

It’s safest to have trees removed by a qualified tree removal company, except for small trees wherein you don’t need to climb a ladder. For a tree removal service, expect to pay between $150 to $2,000. Make sure to hire a certified arborist to determine whether a tree should be maintained, treated, pruned, or removed.

Additionally, some tree removal companies offer special discounts such as free tree removal for seniors to support the community’s elderly population. It’s essential to inquire about such options when considering tree removal services.

Many homeowners aspire for a beautifully manicured lawn. However, installing and maintaining a lawn is easier said than done. There are plenty of aesthetically pleasing alternatives to a lawn. From a zen garden to wooden decking or paving slabs, the choices are endless. For some, nothing comes close to the feel of grass beneath your bare feet. If you’ve ever looked over at a neighbor’s yard with envy and wondered how they manage to keep their lawn looking so good, you might find that sodding is the answer.

If you don’t know much about sodding, we’re here to provide you with some useful insights into the advantage of a sod lawn: 

What Is a Sod Lawn?

Let’s begin with the basics. Sod can be described as grass and soil held together by a biodegradable root system or material. There are different options when it comes to having a sod lawn. From Bella bluegrass and bermudagrass and centipede grass, the list of choices you’ll have is endless. Sourcing a sod lawn and installing it won’t be easy, so it is best to speak to experts at The Sod Source for more information. 

It’s an Instant Solution

The most obvious advantage of sod is that you’ll have yourself an instant lawn. With regular lawns, seeds take at least a year to grow and are fully established, and you’ll have to deal with unattractive yard space. Sodding, however, provides an immediate aesthetic change and will be fully established within a matter of weeks. 

Less Soil Erosion

Unlike seeds, which take a while to establish themselves, sod is better able to control soil erosion because it is fully grown. For those with a garden that becomes muddy as soon as it rains, sod is a great option for eliminating the issue of soil erosion, since it acts as a barrier between rainfall and the soil. 

You Won’t Need to Stress About Irrigation

A seeded lawn needs to be watered at least four times a day at the germination stage. This ensures that the ground will stay moist, but it will also take up a lot of your time. On the other hand, sod only really needs to be watered a few times a day for the first few weeks after it is installed, which makes it a less time-consuming option for the homeowner. 

Sod Lawns Are a Professional Solution 

Unlike a regular seeded lawn, which will require the homeowner to tend to by themselves, sod is grown by professionals. Sod farms grow their sod using the best quality seeds and use specialist machinery. Furthermore, sod farms harvest to order, so you can guarantee you receive a top-quality product.

Maintaining a lawn requires a lot of hard work and patience. A seeded lawn will take a fair amount of time to establish itself, and that is not to say you won’t experience teething issues along the way. Even if you have a green thumb, opting for a sod lawn will save you a lot of time and effort.

Keeping a nice lawn does not have to be difficult. It could be as easy as following a routine that will rapidly become your favorite part of the day.

Its maintenance may come with a little price, but it doesn’t always require a professional to have an immaculate-looking lawn. You don’t need to pay a fortune to have an envious lawn in the neighborhood. So allow us to tell you a piece of confidential information: lawn professionals are not doing anything to your turf that you can’t do alone. They know exactly what to use on your lawn and when and how it is used.

Indeed, help from professionals like Lakeland Lawncare can be great, and you can take notes from them. However, it will be therapeutic if you can take care of your own yard. The best tips to take care of your lawn in your ways and insert your modifications in your lawn care are just one read away. Take your cue from the following.

Eradication Of Weed, Thatch, And Moss

In some cases, these things don’t necessarily damage your lawn. However, they can steal nutrients and water supposedly meant to grow your green, luscious yard.

Weed Removal

Weeds grow unabated in gardens, and there’s nothing we can do about it. They fight for nutrients and water with plants and lawn grasses, and they spread over the garden, making it less appealing.

There are precisely three methods to remove weeds: you pull it by hand, remove using a hoe, and in worse cases, you use a chemical product.

Take note that the best time for weed removal is when the soil is moist and damp because it’s easier to pull the weeds out by their roots. If you don’t, you risk leaving the roots behind since they’re caught in the dirt.

Dethatching

Thatch is a coating of organic debris made up of dead leaves, grass, and root stems that can accumulate between the leaves and the soil.

The buildup causes an obstruction, preventing vital moisture and nutrients from reaching the roots through the soil.

The ground will feel spongy, and the absence of nutrients will leave dull, lifeless spots on the grass, making these areas easier to spot. However, there is no need to worry. Scarification, which is the process of raking and removing mulch from the lawn, is the most outstanding technique for eradicating thatch.

Moss Removal

Mosses are non-flowering plants that can take over your landscape and cause chaos. They flourish in regions with a lot of wetness, shade, and poor turf.

The level of moss will increase if left uncovered or untreated, decreasing the grasses’ ability to thrive. The cause of the moss must be recognized and reduced before you may remove the moss. It can then be fed and satisfied, and it can be watched and nurtured from there.

Upgrade Drainage System

Lawns with inadequate drainage systems carry lots of disadvantages. Ranging from issues such as being soaked for hours, even days, and to the extent of destroying your green grasses.

In upgrading your drainage system, you have to make sure that it is sufficient in giving enough water and nutrients throughout the whole lawn, and it will avoid problems such as drowning the grass. An improved damage system should fix these issues, not make them worse.

A drainage system expert will evaluate your property (slope, soil, etc.) and recommend what will work best for you. A professional will also be aware of any local restrictions on where you can direct your water. For example, directing the water into storm drains is unlawful in many places. In addition, there are regulations prohibiting water from being directed onto sidewalks or roadways that may freeze over during the winter.

Aerate Your Lawn

Aeration is essential for keeping a healthy lawn because it enables air and water to penetrate developed grass or turf mulch.

This technique permits more air and water to get to the grass’s root system, critical for the grass to get the nutrients it needs to flourish. It’s an excellent approach to deal with drought-stricken or water-logged lawns.

Aeration is accomplished by poking small holes in the soil at defined levels and thicknesses with a garden fork or mainly designed instruments and machines.

Aeration’s primary purpose is to alleviate soil compaction. Soil layers have an excessive amount of solid particles packed into a small amount of space, impeding proper air, water, and nutrient flow.

Much yard thatch and heavy organic compounds hiding beneath the grass surface could be depriving the roots of these essential nutrients.

Over-Seeding

By covering the entire area with massive amounts of seed combined with fertilizer, over-seeding rejuvenates old and worn-out lawns. This method improves the color and reduces the possibility of weed and moss incursions while filling in damaged and thinning areas.

The grass should be kept moist after seeding to aid germination, and a top dressing should be applied to preserve the seeds and offer nutrients.

This method should be done once a year to keep your lawn healthy.

Feeding And Watering

Most gardening supply stores have a variety of grass feeds and fertilizers. The type required will be determined by the soil and weather conditions in your area. The majority of these will come with application directions, so it’s best to stick to those.

In general, you should fertilize your lawn twice a year, once during the springtime with a nitrogen-rich yard fertilizer and again in the fall with phosphorus and potassium-rich feed. All lawns require watering in addition to feeding. If a lawn isn’t given enough water, it will turn brown and lose its spring, causing the grass to stay flat when stepped on.

Drip irrigation is not just suitable for large farming areas, as it can provide your home garden with numerous benefits. Whether you are growing organic produce, a herb garden, or simply searching for ways to maintain your landscaping, drip line irrigation will offer you these excellent benefits.

Save On Water Usage

Regardless of how extensive or small your yard area is, of course, you want to reduce your water bill for numerous reasons. However, your plants and lawn need watering regularly, and an ordinary hose can waste a lot more water than you may be aware of. Installing an irrigation system will save you a small fortune each year on your water bill. These systems use between thirty and fifty percent less water than other traditional methods of watering the yard. Even using the ordinary sprinkler will have up to fifty percent of the water evaporating in hot weather conditions.

Enhance Growth

Providing your yard with smaller, more constant amounts of water will boost growth substantially. Therefore, irrigation systems improve the growing conditions for plants. It also prevents soil erosion, which can hinder growth significantly. A nutrient runoff will also no longer be a concern for your landscaping or vegetable garden as your plants will have an ongoing supply of water.

Discourage Weed Growth

Overspray from water sprinklers can cause weeds to germinate where you don’t want them to. This can also lead to your yard growing out of control as the build-up of surface water is not ideal. Installing irrigation will reduce the growth of weeds by delivering water straight to the roots of plants in your garden.

Reduce Fungal Diseases

Fungal diseases can become a problem when watering a yard the traditional way, as fungal diseases thrive in moist conditions. Wet foliage can burn with sunlight and spread disease quickly, so watering only where hydration and moisture are necessary is an excellent way to ensure the reduction of fungal diseases that can destroy everything growing in your garden.

Prevent Overwatering

It’s a lot easier to overwater a garden accidentally than most people realize. Forgetting you have left the sprinkler on can lead to a swamp pretty quickly, and this will damage everything in your yard. Irrigation systems prevent the possibility of overwatering as you can add a timer to your irrigation system and have your yard watered automatically.

Save Time And Effort

You won’t only be saving on your water consumption bill when installing an irrigation system, as you will also be saving substantially on time and effort. You won’t ever have to spend hours on end hosing your plants and lawn or waiting for the sprinkler to deliver enough water to each area of your garden. Installing an irrigation system with a timer means you won’t have to worry about watering your yard ever again. However, you will need to prioritize maintenance and potential repairs of the system to ensure it is always functioning at its best to benefit your garden and everything in it.

Summers are getting hotter and drier each year. In 2020, many northern states were subject to unprecedented droughts that exacerbated wildfires across the area. Droughts can take a harsh toll on your lawn. To prepare for the dry weather, you can take steps to make your lawn and landscaping more resistant to drought.

During a drought, you may not be able to add extra watering times to your lawn maintenance schedule. Many towns and cities have water usage mandates during the aridest parts of the year. When your lawn is parched, it can look dull, yellow, and scrubbish.

If you live in an area that experiences an annual drought, you will need to prepare your lawn in advance. Taking action prior to the dry season can help your lawn resist a harsh period of drought. In the spring as you prepare your lawnmowers, you can take these steps to help drought-proof your lawn.

Aerating

During a drought, your lawn has to work harder to leech moisture out of the soil. In many cases of extreme drought, your lawn will go into a dormant period with minimal growth and some permanent loss. To prevent your lawn from drying out you can help it to access the moisture in your soil by aerating. The process of aerating will provide deeper pockets in your lawn where moisture can accumulate providing an extended water source for your lawn. 

Fertilizer

A lawn that is well-fed will have a better chance of surviving a drought.  Prior to a period of drought, it is essential that you switch to a potassium-rich fertilizer and ditch the nitrogen formula. A potassium fertilizer will help to strengthen each blade of your lawn including the crown helping it to retain strength during periods of heat and dryness. During a drought, it is best to avoid using any pesticides or herbicides as they can leech the soil of excess moisture. To help retain moisture and provide extra nutrients during a drought you can spread a light coating of your clippings.

Watering Schedule

The key to helping your lawn survive a drought is to encourage longer root growth. By establishing the correct watering schedule you can promote the proper growth pattern in your grass that will help them cope with drought. Watering less often with more water is the best way to train your lawn for a drought. Watering less than once a week to the extent that there is minor pooling on your lawn will help your grass extend its roots and become more drought resistant.

Proper Mowing

Mowing your lawn too short or too often can put a strain on your grass. Following the one-third mowing rule is the best way to cultivate strong blades. Only cut off the top third of your grass routinely to keep the blades strong and avoid damaging the crown of the root. Keep your mowing to a minimum, no more than once a week. 

If you want to help your lawn survive the summer drought, you will need to start your maintenance in advance. Before the dry heat hits, follow these tips to help your lawn become drought-resistant and stay looking great all season. 

If you have been wondering, does landscaping increase property value, then you will find this article to be extremely insightful. The truth of the matter is that landscaping that is done in the right manner does indeed increase the value of your property. That is why we share in-depth some amazing ways that landscaping can increase the value of your property. We’ve written this article with the help of a landscaping company called RocDog, which says a lot of clients are property developers wishing to increase the price of their property.

1. Increase the value of a property by adding trees.

Though adding trees can seem like a simple landscaping feature, the reality is that trees are beautiful and do make a property look more interesting. They are perceived as increasing the value of a property. Thus, those properties that have trees tend to have a higher value than those properties that do not have trees. That is why properties that have trees can sell for as much as ten to fifteen percent more than the asking price in comparison to those properties that do not have trees.

2. Increase the value of your property with uniformity in style.

A sure way to add value to increase the value of your property is to apply an approach of uniformity pertaining to the style of your landscaping and home. In other words, your landscaping should conform to the style of your home. If there is a different style for the home and a different style for the landscaping, this would result in the clashing of the designs and would make the property much less appealing. This then causes the property to experience a decrease in its value. But when you are careful to apply landscaping that matches the style of your home, then this will surely increase the value of your property in a positive manner.

“One of the effects of COVID-19 was that people spent more time in their gardens as an extension of their home – arguably more so than ever before,” comments Ruban Selvanayagam of Property Solvers (Buyers).

3. Increase the value of your home when you add colorful flowers and plants.

When you take the time to invest in adding gorgeous and colorful flowers, plants that bloom as well as thick shrubs, you will be magnifying the curb appeal of your property instantly. This will portray the idea that your property is well landscaped and meticulously maintained. Moreover, when you also are careful to add flowers and plants that are aromatic, this will attract butterflies and birds to your property as a result of the lovely scents. This will also contribute to increasing the value of your property.

4. Increase the value of your property when you provide a definition with lawn edging.

If you are looking for an easy way to increase the value of your property, then you should consider providing definition via the usage of lawn edging. This will result in giving your property an appearance of being nicely manicured. This also gives the look that a property is more low maintenance, which can be a great selling point for those who want a nice-looking property that does not require a lot of fuss during the process of caring for it due to being busy. To achieve this look, there should be a neat separation that is noticeable in regard to the walkways, garden beds, and lawn. The addition of bricks, stones, or timber between the walkways, lawn, and garden beds can make the ideal type of lawn edging.

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Nothing is more relaxing than having a beautiful home with amenities to help you unwind after a tiresome day. Apart from offering additional relaxation space, an attractive patio enhances the value of your property. It can also minimize the hustles of lawn maintenance while providing extra multifunctional space in your home. A well-designed patio can make your home feel more inviting and cozy in many ways. In this piece, we will take a look at some landscaping tips you could use to make your patio a space of beauty.

1. Variety of Plants

Plants breathe life and a relaxing feeling into almost any space. Whether you are building a new patio or reviving an old one, think about how flora can help you construct a beautiful area. Introduce a diverse range of colorful plants that bloom at different seasons of the year. You can also use containers with different colors or designs to bring in the aspect of art. Moreover, they are portable and can easily be interchanged.

This will bring energy and a sense of life to your patio out of the varied ornamental leaves blooming throughout the year. For instance, some of the plants like the Rozanne geranium bloom from June to October. Planting a variety of plants will also ensure your patio retains its attractiveness.

2. Use of Bricks

Stone or brick are some of the materials you can use to add a unique feature to your yard patio. Bricks are long-lasting, and they bring out a natural feel, style, and class. You also have a variety of designs and colors to choose from. The colors range from traditional red to grey, brown, and even multi color options. You can assemble the bricks in your own unique design that best suits your preferences.

3. Fountain Patio

Designing a captivating patio can be a daunting task, but it becomes easier when you are guided and informed. Water fountains are a unique feature. It speaks elegance to your outdoor space. If you are looking into ways to enhance your patio, a fountain will deliver exemplary results. The sight and sound of the falling waters will bring a sense of calmness and relaxation aura. It’s soothing and fascinating to watch and hear the water trickling.

4. Covered Patios

Lately, covered patios seem to have acquired significant popularity. Many homeowners are embracing covered pergolas to create comfortable and inviting outdoor spaces. As seen on Malone’s Landscape website, the shaded outdoor units are multifunctional. They can be used for a wide range of outdoor social activities or occasions like barbeques, dinners, parties, and many more.

The shade allows you to hide away from the hot rays of the sun while enjoying the soothing warm breeze. The cover makes it a cozy recreation area. It provides an ideal hideout for your family and friends during summer while enjoying your barbecue portions. You can even add extra entertainment like TV or sound system to make it more alluring.

Considering the countless benefits they offer, a patio could be just what you need in your home for times when you need to escape into the solace arena of nature. With the right tips, you can create an oasis of comfort and allurement in your yard. The above tips can help you design an eye-catching patio that your neighbors will probably get jealous of.

A charming outdoor space is always invigorating to the mind and soul. However, designing this area of your home comes with several challenges, and space is one of them. If you have been wondering how you can create a stunning garden that will awe your guests and family at your abode, look no further. Below are some landscaping ideas you could use to give your small garden some life.

Use Potted Plants

Creating a lush, welcoming garden shouldn’t be complicated. Landscaping with pots can add extra space when gardening in a small backyard. You can grow a wide range of potted plants, including creepers, ornamentals, herbs, and much more. Some could even be hung or placed on the ground. Integrating pots into your landscaping is also cheaper. Doing this will also help you add more color to your yard. The best part of it is that pots are mobile. You can change them after some time to break up the monotonous look. Add some uniqueness by choosing pots with visual appeal. You can use metal buckets, barrels, teapots, or whatever suits your style.

Create a Secluded Nook

Every backyard needs a nook where you can relax from the turbulence of life. Consider setting some space aside in your small garden where you can relax alone and read a book, welcome guests, or nap in a chair or a hammock. You only need to select the right spot in your backyard with minimal noise, preferably one with a wall and a surrounded hedge. It should be placed for privacy away from the house. Add some seats with pillows and blankets to keep you warm and cozy at night. Ensure it is surrounded by some potted plants, especially creepers, herbs, and a few trees where possible.

Consider Illuminated Walkways

Walkway lights can go a long way in improving the visual appeal of your garden. Ensure you choose the ideal lighting for your yard to supplement the landscaping and the architectural hallmarks of your home. You can install geometrical structures or tall angled lights with more illumination coverage. The walkway lighting should give you a stunning view and set the right mood for your outdoor space. It should be relaxing as you enjoy the surroundings, the trees, flowers, and plants around.

Don’t Forget the Contours

A garden path connects distinct areas in the garden. The paths in your garden should be inviting and encourage an expedition. With the help of an expert landscaper, you can create subtle, curvy paths with a fun and interesting look. This helps enrich your landscaping design as the contours create curiosity about what’s lying around the corner. Complement the meandering paths with an attractive trail of beautiful blossoming plants. You can use pebble stones, bricks or gravel, or granite stepping stones on the walking surface.

Whether you are making a garden from scratch or modifying an old one, landscaping can be quite puzzling, especially in a small backyard. Despite the space limitations, you can transform your small garden space into a marvelous haven of greenery. Along with the few tips above, all you need is a little creativity and perhaps some professional help to create a lasting statement in your small garden space.

A backyard pond might look great on a magazine cover. But they require a lot of time and effort to create. So, are they worth it?  To help you make up your mind, let’s look at some of the benefits a pond can provide.

1. Visually Stunning

One of the biggest reasons why you might want to purchase a pond is to create a stunning feature in the backyard. There are plenty of ways that you’ll be able to create a beautiful pond. For example, you might want to add some water-based plants. Things like lily pads and flowering plants can be a great choice, adding some color to the pool. Another great option is to add some fish. You might also want to put in a rock boundary. In some cases, you might want to put in a water feature. This can be something like a waterfall or fountain. The way you set-up your background pond can be as simple or elaborate as you like.

Another way to help your pond stand out is by adding lights. It’s best to get some that are run on solar power, so you won’t need to pay high electricity costs. There are many ways that you can use lights. For example, you might want to put them underwater to show the movement of the fish in the water. In other cases, you might want to put a spotlight on water features. 

2. Environmental Benefits

While a pond can be great for humans, it can also be good for the planet. A pond can serve a few critical environmental features. First, you might be able to save money. Once a pond has been filled up, you’ll be able to rely on rainwater to top it up. This can be compared to the lawn or garden, which require consistent inputs of water to grow. A pond will also support the local ecosystem. For example, birds and frogs will often visit the pond. This can be a great tool for teaching young children about biodiversity and the ecosystem.

3. Relaxing

It’s important to look after your mental health. One of the best ways to do this is by taking the time to de-stress. A pond can be a great place to do this. You can sit back and watch the fishes swim. Or you can listen to the calming cascade of a waterfall. In some cases, you’ll be able to enjoy watching the birds playing in the water. 

It’s easy to create a relaxing area around the pond. First, you’ll want to get some bench seating. Pick an outdoor furniture unit, so it will be able to withstand the wind and rain. Then, you’ll need to get some shade. This can be natural, placing the bench under a tree. In other cases, you might need to use an umbrella. If you want to go the extra mile, put in a sound system, so you can listen to your favorite music while watching the pond.

4. Mask Background Noise

No-one wants to sit in their backyard and listen to the traffic drive past. However, in some locations, you won’t have a choice. Thankfully, there is a way to stop this problem. You’ll need to install a waterfall in your pond. This will mask the noise coming from the street. It will also serve an important role, aerating the water so the fish will be able to use it. The good news is that there are plenty of water features for you to choose from.

5. Keep Cool

Another benefit of owning a pool is being able to stay cool during the warm summer months. On hot days, water will heat up. This results in evaporation. This process cools the surrounding air, similar to how the human body cools through sweating.

6. Create a New Hobby

Maintaining a backyard pond can be a lot of fun. For example, you’ll need to care for the fish and plants. This can be a relaxing task, helping you connect with nature. There’s also a sense of satisfaction that comes with watching the fish grow older, and the plants start to mature. In some cases, you might even be able to breed the fish, establishing future generations.

7. Break-up a Green Lawn

Some people want to put in a lawn to break up their yard. Looking out on a flat, featureless green lawn can be boring. Why not put in a pond to add some visual intrigue. As we mentioned, once installed, the pond will often be easier to maintain than a lawn.

8. Improve Property Values

When people are buying homes, one of the most important things they are looking for is an emotional connection. This creates strong memories, making them picture themselves living in your house. A pond can be a great way of forming an emotional connection. In this case, the buyer will imagine themselves relaxing by the pond, listening to the waterfall. Because of this, you’ll be able to get a higher price for the property. It’s also a good way of selling the home faster.

9. Create A Gathering Place

Finally, you’ll often find that a pond becomes a natural place of congregation for friends and family. It can be a place to go to a party for a more private conversation. At other times, you might want to sit down and relax by the water with your friends.

Conclusion

As we’ve seen, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to consider building a backyard pond. The good news is that it doesn’t need to be difficult. All you need is a few simple materials to get started, like pond liners. These will hold the water, stopping it from seeping into the soil. They’ll also be tough enough to withstand damage, so your pond will last for a long time. For more information and to find the right ones for you, check out this pond liners compilation. So, start work on building your dream pond today to experience the joys that it can provide.

Everyone wants to have a lawn that is the envy of the neighborhood. The problem is that many people simply don’t have the time or the ability to keep their grass looking great all year long. With schedules getting busier every year, not everyone wants to spend their weekends mowing and fertilizing their lawns.

Having a great lawn takes more than just sticking to a regular mowing schedule. Every lawn is different and needs special attention to keep it looking its best. Proper watering, aerating, and feeding are essential to keeping your lawn healthy. Most people don’t have the knowledge or experience to know how to handle lawn problems when they come up.

Hiring a lawn service like lawn.com.au mowing may seem unnecessary, but the benefits can be worth the money and the convenience. Let’s take a look at some of the amazing benefits of hiring a lawn service.

Expertise

Most homeowners are genuinely lost when it comes to keeping their lawn healthy and looking great. Factors like how often their lawn needs watering and proper fertilization are a mystery to most people. If you don’t have the proper knowledge or experience, you could do more damage than good by attempting to do it yourself.

When you hire a lawn service, you will have the advantage of working with professionals. Lawn care experts know what needs to be done to avoid damage.

Labor Free

Cutting the lawn is a manual labor chore that can be too much for a lot of homeowners. Many people end up with aches, pains or even injuries from cutting and maintaining the lawn.

Seniors are especially at risk for heat exhaustion or falling when left to manage their lawn. Anyone that struggles with mobility or health issues can benefit from bringing in a lawn service to take care of the labor.

Save Money

You may wonder how dishing out cash to bring in a lawn service can save you money, but it’s true. When you add up the costs of mowing equipment, lawn fertilizers, seed, edgers, and your time every week, it becomes clear that you can save money by bringing in a lawn service. These professionals show up with all of their own equipment, chemicals and staff to take care of your lawn at no extra expense.

Consistency

Even with the most careful maintenance, it’s inevitable for your lawn to have problem spots. The amount of time that needs to be invested in these areas can leave your grass looking less than perfect.

Professionals can spot small issues before they become unsightly problems. With a regular cutting and fertilizing schedule, you can count on your lawn looking great from week to week.

Curb Appeal

You can have the most unique and stylish home on the block, but without a well-maintained lawn, your property will struggle with curb appeal. A neat and lush lawn equals an attractive home. Impress your neighbors and bring up the value of your home with a great yard all year long.

Hiring a lawn service has more benefits than just relieving you of grass cutting duties on your precious weekends. If you want the best looking lawn in the neighborhood, give your property a neat and attractive appearance and consider a lawn service for your home today.

The rustic look has become extremely popular for interior and exterior home styles. Whether your entire look is completed using a historical flair or you have one or two central pieces that you want to show off, you can now apply a safe weather resistant finish to your outdoor furniture.

The techniques that are used by many DIY decorators involve stripping and distressing the wood using oxalic acid wood bleach, but sometimes they don’t hold up to the elements. This has limited many people to keep their rustic pieces indoors only. But, not anymore.

Now, with the introduction of a protective additive, you can finish your benches, tables and other garden accents with ease. You won’t have to worry about damage from rain, UV rays or wind when you protect your rustic finished items properly.

Let’s take a look at this great new feature in creative paints and get you started.

Outdoor Additive

When you have worked so hard on a piece to create that perfect rustic worn look, the last thing that you want to do is have it ruined by the weather. If you love to use natural mediums like milk paint to decorate and style your pieces, you can now protect them all in one step. The outdoor additive is added directly to your mixed paint and not put on after. It is not meant to be used as a top coat to an already painted item.

Simply mix your paint with the additive solution and apply like you would normally. The additive has a borax base that helps protect your wood items from the elements and prevents your paint from prematurely aging and ruining the rustic effect. There is no lacquer needed when you use your milk paint with an additive included.

Benefits

When you are looking to complete an antique piece with a period appropriate finish, you can’t go wrong by choosing a non-toxic product like milk paint. That being said, milk paint is not known to be durable when exposed to the elements. By adding this adapted borax compound you can now protect your wood and your finish from outdoor deterioration.

Although the outdoor additive has a borax compound complex, it still remains one of the most environmentally friendly finish options.

The outdoor additive acts as a powerful stain blocker. When you are using soft or sappy woods like cedar or pine, the outdoor additive will help to block tannins from bleeding through your rustic finish.

The borax based additive works as an excellent antibacterial agent and mold inhibitor. With unprotected items you may soon start to see spore buildup in areas that have absorbed too much moisture from being outdoors.

The outdoor additive will turn your pieces into flame retardant items. Although, being constructed of older wood in many cases, any item that is treated with milk paint with an outdoor additive will be resistant to heat and flame.

When you put your wood furniture outdoors the paint can quickly start to fade or peel from sun exposure. With the outdoor additive used with milk paint, you will get superior UV protection, keeping all of your outdoor projects looking great for many years.

Spring graces us every year with blue skies, long days, green trees and flowers blooming everywhere. With these positive changes, many of us feel drawn to nature and awaits warm nights that will be perfect for a bonfire or a grill in the wild. It’s also the perfect time to bring your dreamy garden to life as well. Are you going to add up the trees to the design or are you more of a flowers type of person? Will you focus on many species or you’d rather have the harmony and uniformity? Read our guide to see what can you do to make the design outstanding and enchanting. You don’t have to be a professional to make the dream come true. Are you ready?

A well-kept base

When you see the painting, you don’t only look at the focus area but at the background as well. The same rule applies to your garden. The most magnificent flowers and trees, the gorgeous design will look poorly if the loan won’t be kept in its best shape. A lawn that’s well taken care of is the garden’s exceptional decoration. A green, carpet-like base is the perfect base for any vegetation. But why the lawn doesn’t always look so perfect?

It all depends on how you take care of it. When seeding the lawn in the spring, you should make sure that you do it evenly at every part of the garden. If you have a large parcel, instead of spreading seeds manually, invest better in a spreader that will do it for you. With this device, you will also spread a fertilizer that will help your young grass to root and grow. It’s not necessary, but it sure will make your life easier. If you need help or can’t justify buying a professional spreader, contact those regularly recommended landscape gardeners from Edinburgh.

In the beginning, you have to water your lawn even twice a week. Later, when the grass start rooting, you can cool down the watering to 2 times a week. The best time for this is in the morning. Avoid using water in the warmest time of the day, as it damages the grass. Evening watering is not the best idea because of long-lasting moisture — this can lead to fungal diseases.

Keep the harmony

Full of colours, shapes and scents but easy to maintain. It does sound like a dream! If you’re new to the gardening, you should know that maintaining the grass is easier and faster than taking care of the flowers. Maybe you’re able to focus on your garden and spend the time necessary to keep it at order at all times, you can get loads of flowers and little trees. If you can’t do that, make the flower space smaller.

When planning a garden, leave places where you can plant flowers. Pay attention to whether these are shaded or sunlit areas — it depends on what species of plants you can plant there, to bloom nicely. Separate the flowers from the lawn with a special ribbon, barriers or rocks.

Find the right area for your flowers

It’s no secret that some flowers like to be in the sun all the time, while some fancy shadowy corners. Before you plant them, teach yourself on the preferred placement in the garden. Most of the flowers like the sunny areas, so if it’s your first time in your own garden, choose those that are easy to plant. If you have a lot of shadows caused by the high-rise fence or old trees, go for azalea that is evergreen or David’s harp, that grows fast and doesn’t really need any additional time. Choose the flower placement wisely to get the most blooming effect possible. If you follow the direction, the flora will pay you back with an enchanting look.

When improving the exterior of your home, gardens, and landscaping are an excellent way to add color, personality, character, and uniqueness to a home. But for many people, a garden is about more than just the aesthetics, it’s also a hobby that they are passionate about and take pride in cultivating. The “perfect” garden isn’t typically one that is thrown together without thought or planning, rather there is a real design behind it. That design needs to take into consideration a number of factors in order for it to thrive and be as lovely as you have envisioned.

To help ensure that your new garden is a success, here are five tips you can use during the design process.

Give the Garden Space

When you first plant your flowers and shrubs, it’s hard to imagine just how big they will get, but this is essential to factor in your design. You always want to allow enough room for growth over the coming years, so that means keeping your garden or the plantings back from patio edges, fences, walkways, and more. If you don’t give everything enough space to truly thrive, the garden will end up looking crowded and growth can be stunted.

Don’t Over-Plant

This goes hand-in-hand with the abovementioned tip. Be careful not to over-plant and over-fill your brand-new space. Sure, the garden is going to look a little sparse for that first year or two, but with patience and proper garden maintenance, it will flourish and fill in.

Understand Your Soil and Light Conditions

When it comes to choosing what to plant, picking items you think look “pretty” just won’t cut it. You need to be well aware of your soil and light conditions.

Choose a Mix of Perennials and Annuals

Another tip is to mix up what you’re planting and pick a variety of perennials and annuals. Perennials will come back each year, typically getting bigger and fuller each year that passes.

Annuals are a great way to add that bright pop of color to your garden each year. You can change up the flowers you pick, the height, the fullness, the placement, and even the color scheme.

As for choosing flower colors for your annuals, KG Landscape suggests using the color wheel for inspiration and using color schemes. Some of the most common color schemes are white on white, warm colors, bright colors, cool colors, and pastels. Monochromatic color schemes can also be quite striking.

Prepare the Soil

Now before you go ahead and pop all your plants and flowers in the ground, you also want to prepare the soil. A proper air supply is essential so they may require fresh soil, compost, and even mulch.

All of these tips will help you to design the ultimate garden for your home.

Not only are these great for border edges, but they are also perfect for cutting unruly grass and weeds in those difficult to reach areas of your garden, thus making them a must-have for many garden enthusiasts.

On the face of it, a strimmer is very different from a lawnmower despite the similarities of the 2 garden pieces. A strimmer has a rapidly rotating head, with a hard trimming line in the end; this makes quick work of weeds and long grasses without too much effort.

However, with any piece of equipment, if used inappropriately, you can create more work and risk damaging your new strimmer without getting much use out of it.

Here are some top tips on how to use your garden strimmer effectively.

• Protect yourself; as with any piece of garden equipment, you must ensure you take safety seriously when operating it. Though that piece of nylon line may not look like much, though put it too close to the skin or feet and you may end up needing a trip to your emergency department! Ensure you wear eye and head protection to eliminate injury from flying debris. Make sure you are wearing a sturdy pair of shoes, gloves, and regardless of the weather, always wear full-length trousers. Avoid loose-fitting clothes and to protect your ears from the inevitable noise, wear a pair of ear defenders or earplugs.
• Watch out for the cable; if you are using a mains powered strimmer, one key risk is that you may trip over the wire. Similarly, ensure you keep the cutting end away from any wires too; you really don’t want to have to replace a damaged cable!
• Flying debris; though we touched on this earlier, the context is different. Even if your garden is worthy of winning the Best Kept Garden Award from the RHS, there is always the potential that when using a strimmer, you may hit something seemingly benign, like a stone, and inadvertently turn it into a projectile. This is bad news if there are other unprotected people in the vicinity and can be very bad for your windows! To avoid this, check all areas you will be strimming for such objects and remove them from a safe distance. This will also avoid damage to the strimmer.
• Take a break; if you have a large area to strim, you will need to schedule in breaks- not just to give yourself a rest but also to prevent your strimmer from becoming overheated, which can cause damage in the long run. Keep your posture straight and if your body begins to ache, stop and leave it for another time; if you are exhausted, you risk dropping your strimmer, damaging it and yourself.

To prolong your strimmer lifespan, keep it in a cool, dry shed or garage; if you are worried about anything, get it checked by a gardening tools expert.

According to the Wall Street Journal, over 100,000 new small businesses are opened every year. Many workers are growing tired of toiling day after day to make someone else’s dreams come true. With independent contractors and freelancers taking over the world of commerce, it might be time to think about starting your own private enterprise.

Landscaping businesses can be as lucrative as they are rewarding. With busy schedules, there is a growing demand for companies to come in and take care of people’s property. Give your creative green thumb an outlet to thrive while creating and maintaining some beautiful landscapes.

From a simple mowing business to a more complex landscape design, the choice is yours. Take advantage of the tools of your trade including creative landscape design software to help you make your clients’ dreams come true.

As with any new venture, it’s always best to start with a plan. Opening your own business can be a challenge, so having a picture of what you want to accomplish and how you will do it is the best place to start.

Make A Business Plan

If you have no experience running your own business, you will need to start by doing your homework. To bring in interest for financing, you will need to create a comprehensive business plan to present to lenders. There are many online tools that can help you with a business plan template to get you prepared.

It’s a good idea to consult with an accountant to get advice about setting up your bookkeeping system and taxes before you get started.

Set Your Pricing

The best place to start when deciding what your fees will be is to investigate your direct competition. You may be able to cut some corners when you are just starting out, as your overhead will be slightly lower than the more established companies. Consider your time invested, cost of materials, labor, equipment, and tools, and your overhead costs before calculating your best price.

Licensing

Every state will have different licensing requirements. In a landscaping business, you may need to obtain special certification to use chemicals and fertilizers. You should also check your local bylaws regarding waste management and local irrigation.

You will be required to sit for the Landscape Architect Registration Exam before you will be issued an official business license. The exam will cover the basics of land management, maintenance, and safety. You can write the exam for a one-time cost of $150.

Taxes

Consult your accountant about setting up an EIN (Employer Identification Number) that will connect you to the IRS. Visit the IRS website and fill out the standard SS-4 forms to receive your State Tax I.D. number.

Gain Customers

Start by advertising locally and pick up a few of your first clients by offering services to your neighbors and family. Take advantage of the incredible reach that social media can offer by establishing a company website and a dedicated page on Facebook or an Instagram account.

Create a portfolio of your past work as you gain more experience. Being able to display examples of your work directly to your clients can show them that you have a great experience as well as talent.

Hire Staff

With a small landscaping business you may start out as an independent contractor, but with luck, you may soon have to hire extra staff to keep up with the demand. You should always have a rigid interviewing and hiring process to protect your business. Check references and past experience before making any hasty decisions. You should expect to provide training for all of your new employees. You can also use a lawn care time tracking app to ensure employee accountability.

Landscaping in a particular area gives you more than a pleasant sight as it also relieves stress. A simple house with a beautiful landscape looks elegant. You don’t need a professional gardener or a massive budget to achieve a beautiful landscape. You can make your beautiful backyard without spending too much.

All you need are the following tips:

1. Determine the space and topography of the area for landscaping

The space and topography for landscaping should be considered first. It’ll give you a hint of how many and what type of plants to select, arrange and grow in your backyard. It will also serve as a basis for your layout. When you have a small yard, you can include flowering plants or potted plants in your layout to optimize the space.

If you have a wide yard, you can plant large fruit-bearing trees. If you have trees and you need to decorate it, use scaffolding. Check this link for cheap scaffolding.

2. Make a simple layout or landscaping plan

Aside from visualizing how your yard would look beforehand, making a layout will save you a lot of time, effort and money at the end of the day. Planning and putting everything you have in mind on a piece of paper can create a good outcome.

It helps you determine the available plants in your area and the kind of plants that best grow in your target site. Moreover, you’ll know what tools to buy instead of buying every tool.

3. Recycle used containers

Bottles whether plastic or glass could save you from pot needs. Today, a lot of home-gardeners create a sophisticated arrangement of containers blending well with the plants. For instance, big plastic bottles can be carefully cut into an artistic feature and could serve as pots for small plants or those with shallow roots. Aside from keeping you a lot from spending, you are helping the environment, too.

5. Choose low maintenance shrubs and perennials

Since landscaping is intended for a long-term plant arrangement, shrubs or perennials are ideal for it. Some plants look good for just a few months and eventually wither and die. Some plants need to be watered most of the time and require the right amount of fertilizers to grow well. To save energy, time and even money, choose plants that can live for more than a year while growing beautifully as they age. When you have perennials, you can save so much from buying plants again and again.

Conclusion

If you’re a homeowner, you can create a beautiful sight right in the backyard without following all the conventional and expensive landscaping models. Your creativity, determination, and action are the best capital for a low-cost yet elegant landscape. Remember that the key to successful landscaping is utilizing most of the available resources with careful planning with the right implementation. As long as you’re happy and satisfied with the outcome, nobody can question the quality of your landscape.

Trees are an essential component to any outdoor area, as they provide essential shading and screening, not to mention a healthy dose of greenery that gives the garden texture and depth. Most Australian homeowners are familiar with the term “tree lopping” and while you might think that lopping is something to be carried out at certain times of a tree’s life, research suggests that this practice is actually harmful to the tree.

Definition of the Term “Lopping”

For many people, tree lopping can mean any of the following:

• Tree Pruning
• Branch Trimming
• Tree Shaping

According to the Tree Protection Act of 2005, it is illegal to lop a tree, and their definition of lopping is to make cuts at the fork of a tree between the branch unions, while the correct practice, pruning, is to cut branches after the union, which allows the tree to develop in a healthy way. Lopping a tree is likely to cause severe xylem dysfunction and decay in the major branches of the tree and this will result in the tree forming a layer of new wood around a decaying core, which can be very dangerous.

Mature Trees and Lopping

If a mature tree actually survives the lopping process, it will require very careful management as the tree develops, with extra weight being added by the new growth, while the dysfunctional inner core is not able to hold this extra weight. Rather than cutting off a main branch, the branches that run off the main bough can be trimmed back to a point just after the branch union and this achieves the objective, yet does not harm the core sections of the tree.

Eco-Friendly Tree Care

If you think your garden trees need some attention, source an eco-friendly arborist and one that understands that tree lopping is not advisable under any circumstances. If the tree is in a bad condition, perhaps removal is the best solution and with stump grinding, all remnants will be removed and you can use that patch of ground for something else. While there might be many companies offering tree lopping in Perth, look for one that complies with the Tree Protection Act and therefore does not practice tree lopping – which is also known as tree topping.

Tree Pruning & Shaping

A qualified arborist will employ pruning techniques to reshape a tree or remove dead branches, which is not harmful, in fact, correct pruning promotes healthy growth. An arborist would know how a tree can be cut back without causing damage and always has the tree’s best interests at heart. Shaping can be carried out in such a way that the removed branches will not hinder healthy growth and rather than simply taking away branches to achieve the desire shape and size, the arborist will only remove what he can without harming the tree.

Specific Exceptions

There are cases when tree removal is not the best solution and if the tree is old, then lopping is a manageable way to help the tree finish its lifecycle. The lopping would be a precursor to removal, which might be scheduled a few years from now, yet the instances when tree lopping is suitable are rare indeed.

Safety First

Large trees can weigh anything up to 50 tonnes and lopping such a tree could very easily put people and property at serious risk. There would be no outer signs of a problem, as the core timber is decaying slowly, and with so much weight to support, some species simply crack under the strain, sending a bough of a few tonnes crashing to the ground.

Once you have managed to locate a qualified arborist, it is advisable to let him schedule any tree work that needs to be done. He would know the best time of the year to prune back and would ensure a balance of natural beauty and good health.

Creating and maintaining a beautiful garden takes hard work and dedication, but the results are certainly worth it. Great gardens come in all shapes and sizes, and contain a number of elements, but at their heart is always one thing of especial importance: the lawn. Your garden lawn should always be the centerpiece of your garden, so if it looks damaged or out of shape, the garden as a whole won’t be seen at its best. Don’t worry, we’ve come up with this handy three-point guide that will help you get a lawn you’ll be proud of all year round.

Optimal Watering

We all know that lawns need watering, especially during the hot, dry months of summer, but just how much should you water them and exactly how should you water your lawn? The first thing to note is that the soil type will determine just how much watering it needs, with sandy clay soils needing less watering per session than heavy clay soils, but as it holds less water it will need watering more frequently. Generally speaking, your lawn will need at least an inch of water per week during cooler months and an inch and a half per week at the height of summer. It’s also best to water your lawn in the early morning hours, particularly during the summer when hot temperatures can cause water evaporation before it sinks into the clay beneath the grass.

Lawn Aeration

Aerating your lawn is a simple process, but when done correctly the results can be spectacular. Put simply, aeration is the act of punching holes in your lawn, and this is especially important if your lawn sees heavy usage. Over time, a lawn’s soil becomes increasingly compact, making it difficult for water to drain away and for it to receive the air and nutrients it needs to thrive. By making holes of approximately three inches in depth, the soil has room to move and breathe, and this leads to a much healthier and vibrant lawn. Aeration can be done by hand or via a special aerating machine, and it should be done at least once a year to soil that’s relatively dry.

Use Organic Fertilizers

It’s important to fertilize your lawn if you want it to stay looking great throughout the seasons, but some fertilizers contain harsh chemicals which can be harmful to you and your family, wildlife, and plants. That’s why we recommend the use of natural, organic fertilizers, and as an added bonus a recent study into the effectiveness of lawn fertilizers by the prestigious Texas A&M University found that organic materials worked better than synthetic ones.

When your lawn looks good, you’ll enjoy spending time there even more, and it will also be a great place to meet and greet house guests. Lawn care and maintenance can be as simple as watering it correctly, using organic fertilizer and aerating it on an annual basis.

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The British summer can be unpredictable at the best of times and this year we seem to be enjoying an ongoing heatwave of epic proportions and as the summer draws to an end, it is time to think about some pre-winter gardening. It is natural for all plants and fauna to sleep during the colder months and there are some important jobs to get out of the way before autumn sets in, which will help your flowers, trees and shrubs better deal with the onset of winter.

• Heavy Dose of Watering – In the heat of the summer, your lawn and border plants will require a healthy regular dose of water, especially the lawn and this helps to prepare for the winter. This should begin when the temperature starts to climb and should be ongoing, right up until the sun loses its power and the light evenings recede. If your water sprinkler system and hose have seen better days, it might be time for a replacement and with online garden suppliers, you can order from the comfort of your own home.
• End of Summer Pruning – When all of the flowering varieties have finished blooming, you should prune back a little and not too radical, especially for younger plants and shrubs. Remove all dead branches and the pruning will add some shape to the bushes and shrubs and help them to prepare for the winter shutdown. Trees should also be pruned at this time and if you are not confident working at heights, it might be an idea to call in your local landscape gardener, who is fully equipped to safely prune and trim even large trees.
• Halt Fertilization – It is never a good idea to fertilize past the end of August, as this will stimulate new growth at a time when the plants should be doing the opposite. While fertilization is important in the spring and summer, it should be ceased before the cold weather sets in.
• Spike the Lawn – This can be done effectively with a garden fork, if you don’t have a separate tool and this will ensure that the grass receives the right amount of nourishment. This is especially important if your lawn has bad drainage and don’t forget a liberal watering once the spiking has been completed.
• Cut the Lawn Higher than Normal – As the warm weather recedes, you should raise the lawnmower cutters a notch or two, as the extra grass length will aid the lawn to deal with the impending frost.

If you are lacking in gardening tools, there are online suppliers of all things horticultural and they typically have end of summer sales, so purchasing tools and other essentials at this time is a god idea. The harsh UK climate does mean your plants, trees and shrubs are well equipped to deal with the winter and by including all of the above as the summer draws to an end, you are helping your garden to prepare for the cold season.