Archive for 'Landscaping'
Hiring the Right Landscaper
Posted on 30. May, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
The landscape features of a home can make or break its over-all appeal. Good landscaping will add value to a home, office building, etc. Aside from added value, good landscaping will result to ambience to a home. However, landscaping usually requires the services of a professional. As much as we want it to be a “do-it-yourself” task, it usually isn’t.
A good landscaper will make implementation of the entire project less complicated. With the right things in mind, people who would want to hire the best landscaper fill their needs can do so. Here are some tips on how to hire a landscaper the right way.
-Needs Assessment
Some landscapes are beautiful as they are, but the owners sometimes just want to add new appeal to their homes so they opt to have a landscape job done. To change the landscape of his house, he must look into the details of his present landscape and ask himself, “What do I want to change?” and Why?”
After assessing his needs, he should put his ideas into a rough sketch to have a picture of what he wants done. Having an outline or a sketch is important if he really wants his ideas to come to life. Some people may want the landscaper to design the landscape for them.
-Set the Limits
Budget is a big part of choosing a landscaper. One must identify the specific services which he will be need to complete the landscaping project and try to find the best value his money.
-Do some Research!
Take time to check the different landscape contractors that offer services in the area. The Internet is a good way to find landscapers because they often provide pictures of their completed projects and provide other information. Our good-old friend, the Yellow Pages’ directory is also an option, but perhaps the best way to look for a landscaper others who have recently have had landscaping done. Personal referrals should be considered for your comfort and security.
-Go into the details
One must assess the sense of urgency that the landscapers have to the completion of your project. Do not a hire a landscaper who is not interested in the project. It’s a waste of money.
Choosing a good landscaper is a matter of finding someone who can offer dedication to the job and quality products to your project. Other factors such as budget constraints and preferences always play a big part in your decision… Good luck and best wishes in searching for the dream’ landscaper!
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Make do with low-budget landscaping projects
Posted on 22. May, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Landscaping is responsible for making drab and solid areas pleasing to the eyes. It is responsible for making ordinary homes into spectacular ones and skyscrapers into livable buildings.
The word landscaping itself means the process of designing land to enhance its view. The traditional concept of using landscaping techniques in wide and open spaces has been expanded. Today, even small homes and buildings with little space for land can be the subject of landscaping, depending on the talent of the artist.
So why go for landscaping? People resort to landscaping for the following purposes:
1. Recreational purposes
2. Meditation purposes
3. Aesthetic purposes
4. To increase value of their property
The common concept people have of landscaping is that it is only good for those who have money to spend since landscaping supplies are very expensive. Often, landscaping materials can be acquired at a low cost and sometimes even for free. The only thing required is one’s creativity and resourcefulness.
Those who want to create a less expensive landscaping project should plan the landscape design. Choose a design that makes use of less expensive resources, or one that requires minimum resources for its maintenance.
A neophyte landscape artist can avail himself of “do-it-yourself” landscaping projects available on the internet. A good design that can be incorporated in a landscaping project is a garden fountain. Hiring a professional person to design and build a fountain would be quite expensive. So why not try to do the project yourself? The materials needed for the fountain can be found in the local hardware store and the step by step guide can be yours, with just a click of the computer mouse.
Remember the plant debris you didn’t have the time to throw away yesterday? It can be used as compost for your landscaping plants. This is not only free, but it environmentally-friendly.
Lighting fixtures cannot be avoided if you want a landscape that can be appreciated even during nighttime. In such case, choose low voltage lighting fixture or solar powered lights to save on the cost.
Also make use of construction rejects and recycle them for landscaping purposes. It takes lots of imagination and innovation to look at a scrap and find a way to use it for landscaping. Scarp construction materials can be used as boulders or edging, and they can are generally free.
So the next time you hesitate about beautifying your garden because of the high cost involved, try to be more creative and consider recycling materials for your landscaping supplies.
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The Best Plants for Your Landscaping Project
Posted on 15. May, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
When you deal with plants, information is necessary to ensure that they are right for your landscape, your geographical area, the season suitable for planting, and the proper care that needs to be implemented, and etc. Without this knowledge, you can not assume that the investment is justified..
One practical suggestion is to consider planting an herb garden. Herbs are good for landscaping. The bonus will be herbs are both practical and can be used in cooking. Other options are available but you must you must carefully consider the plants to insure that they are appropriate for your needs.
One consideration that you should not dwell a great deal is the decorative appeal of the plants. You may be attracted to their color, size, and flowers but they may not be appropriate. Select plants that will do well in your area so that do well and provide the desired effect. Take note of the following factors in choosing plants:
* Site and soil conditions. Remember plants have environmental requirements. You need to be aware of your particular conditions and consider the following: exposure to light and wind, soil conditions and structures nearby. If you fail to check on these very important factors, chances are, the plantings will not do good as well as you expected.
* Size and type selection. If you desire a certain plant because of its size and type, you should be aware that they must be handled, planted, and cared for in the proper way. There are three types of ornamental plants: those that are called ball and burlap (B&B), bare root and container grown. If the plants are container grown or ball and burlap plants, you must handle with care and remove the container around the root ball leaving as much soil as possible around the roots. The pot should be totally or the burlap partially removed. Bare root plants, which are smaller in size, are only available in spring and should be planted immediately after purchase.
* Climatic considerations are very important because the plants survival is highly dependent on temperature, etc. Carefully check the plants you are choosing for your landscape and make certain the climates in your area is suitable.
* Prevent pests. There are plants that can resist certain pests. Be sure to choose these plants for your landscape especially if you have identified the pests that are a problem in your area.
* Start healthy. Choose plants from a reputable nursery that you know have been properly cared for. Be aware do not purchase damaged in plants.
Landscaping is a big investment so as choosing the plants that goes with it. Proper selection and care is needed.
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Choosing the Perfect Landscape Contractor for You
Posted on 06. May, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Investing in a home landscaping project is a smart decision. Time, a budget and a properly laid out plan are things to consider
Included in the investment is the search for the best professional landscape contractor available who can stay within your budget and yet do an acceptable job. You do not want a “run-of-the-mill job” that you see elsewhere in your neighborhood, but one that you have envisioned and suit your specific needs.
If you decided to continue with the project, you must start with a well thought-out plan. Put them into writing and identify the needs and requirements of the project. A landscape that you envisioned is entirely possible and will bring great pleasure.
Next you should prepare your budget. Will your dream garden be feasible? Is it practical or do you need to make some adjustments and/or compromises?
The best thing is that you know what you want and you are able to identify alternatives if your budget fails to accommodate your vision. Having a plan, budget, and timetable for your landscape project will make it easier for you to negotiate with your landscape contractor. He is your practical accomplice in ensuring that this project will meet your budget and assure that it will look as much as possible like you had envisioned.
With everything in order, you are now ready to choose your landscape contractor.
* A landscape contractor can do many jobs for you. Make sure you identify what help you want from him. If you like to work in the garden and want to do some of the work yourself, tell your contractor about it and work with him so that he will know what is expected of him. This will make the work less expensive.
* Be sure that you have already identified what you want in the landscape design. This should be in your preparatory plan before you even speak to a professional contractor. Do let him know that you would appreciate his professional expertise and input this will put him at ease.
* Know the landscape companies that you are contacting and negotiate with them. Gauge their level of experience and the quality work by asking for photos or tours of their previous projects. You should also ask for references and their professional affiliations.
* Be sure that the company is operating legally. This will ensure you that the contractor will be accountable to you.
* Everything you agreed to must be in black and white’. Never walk away without a written contract!
Do all these things and you will be assured that your home landscape will be the way you envisioned it.
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Choosing the right plants for better landscaping
Posted on 26. Apr, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Landscaping has become a common feature not only in big garden areas, but even in small spaces inside and outside buildings and homes. Home and building-owners believe that appropriate landscaping can make a significant difference in every structure’s appearance.
The term landscaping may sound complicated and technical to outsiders, but it really is just the art of putting the right plant in the right place. Landscaping is an ongoing process because later, what is considered the right plant now may become the wrong choice due to some factors.
The choice of plants is one of the most important factors in landscaping because plants can make or break the landscape design. Plants will give form and color to the landscape.
Before choosing the types or kinds of plants to be used in landscaping, a landscape designer must first decide the style or theme of the landscaping project. A creative landscaping artist can choose from various themes and designs like a small garden design, a Victorian theme or a garden around a swimming pool design
What should be considered in choosing plants for landscaping?
1. The color, size and texture of the plants should be given consideration as these characteristics will give life to the landscaping project. A landscape artist must choose plants depending on the kind of garden being designed. If it is a small space, then appropriate plants should be chosen. The purpose of the landscaping should also be considered in the choice of plants
2. Identify the characteristics of plants that will be used for the project. An important factor is the size or the height the plant will reach upon its maturity. The weather and climate needs of the plant should also be considered, as well as the type of soil where the plant will grow best.
3. Choose plants that are not attractive to pests. There are plants that are pest resistant, and if they fit the landscaping project, then they would be an ideal selection.
4. Estimate the place that the plant will occupy when it is fully grown. There are plants that grow horizontally and failure to take this into consideration may pose a problem later.
5. Make sure that the plants you choose for the project have good color combinations. Choose from colors that will either complement or contrast with each other. A striking color scheme can make or ruin a landscaping project.
Whatever the design or theme of your landscaping project is, make sure that you choose plants that are easy to take care of, efficient, and which have high chances of survival.
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Stones to Make Your Garden Rock
Posted on 15. Apr, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Rocks are important to any landscape. They give functional characteristic and they also have a distinct beauty. When designing a beautiful landscape it is necessary to plan and choose with care the type of rocks to be used.
Landscape: Hardscapes and Softscapes
* When it comes to landscaping, it will be helpful to be familiar with the terms softscapes and hardscapes.
* Softcapes pertain to the living elements of the landscapes, like plants and flowers.
* Hardscapes are those non-living elements that include the rocks and stones.
Rocks and Stones
Rocks are particularly durable and not easily destroyed. They are perfect to use for pathways and retaining walls. They enhance the appearance of a pond mini-waterfalls.
Rocks and stones will make any landscape design more interesting and pleasing to the eye. There are many kinds of stones to choose from. One must only discern which ones will be appropriate effect.
Boulders
These can come in different sizes. They are ideal for water landscapes, like falls or cascades. Large boulders can be used for marking a driveway or for the entryway to a garden. They can provide a dramatic effect to the design. Make sure that they are strategically situated as attract much attention.
Flag Stones
These stones are perfect for walks and patios. They are very thin and smooth and come in various shades, sizes, and distinctive shapes. They are usually placed above a layer of sand. The flag stones can be adjusted to make a pleasing design.
River pebbles
When it comes to drier locations, river pebbles are the best choice since they help with water conservation. They can also be used as a decorative balance to a plantings.
Granite
Beautiful and versatile, granites can be carved into garden furniture like the tables and benches or simply used for decoration.
Other Tips in Choosing the Appropriate Rock
1. You must consider the space available when making your choice. Take note of the proximity of one to another. Make sure that these do not a path or an important view.
2. Color is also a distinct feature in the landscape. Some implement specific color schemes. There are different colors to choose from like red, yellow or white or you can carefully use in combination. .
3. Porous rock is a better choice for a weathered look. They are receptive to growth of mosses and other plants like creeping phlox..
4. Avoid using sharp rocks near the pathway.
5. For a more natural look, choose rocks that are of similar appearance, considering texture, color and form.
Utilize rocks in the best way possible. Choose well. Simply use the imagination to make the stones functional in the design. Remember always to make the area look as natural as possible and nature will be closer to home than ever.
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The Proper Plants for the Landscape
Posted on 07. Apr, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Exploring nature is a rejuvenating experience. However, exploring the forest may not fit into the daily schedule. Why not bring nature right into your courtyard?
Landscaping Options
Landscaping brings nature closer to home. It includes many elements: the area, design, weather and others. The over all look depends on the owner’s taste. Some want the effect of water (pools, waterfalls, etc.) and some like rocks, stones, etc.
To create a very natural feel, you must use plants. They are most helpful in creating the total effect of the landscape. It should not be just any plant; it should be the most appropriate plant for the area and climate.
Best Choice of Plants for the Landscape
1. Groundcovers
These plants are indispensable to a landscape as they can serve as backdrops for trees, shrubs, etc. There are many types of groundcovers to choose from.
Sun-Loving
Sunny areas are considered problematic. Many plants do not like direct sunlight. Juniper groundcovers and hardy perennials are very helpful in resolving this problem.
Shade
These plants cannot stand the heat of direct sunlight. They should be used in areas that are not exposed to the sun except for short periods of time. Most of the shade-loving plants are low-growing or mid-sized.
“Attractive”
Many flowering plants attract birds, butterflies, bees, etc. It is important to choose plants that grow pollens. Plants like bee balm, holly hock and red columbine attract hummingbirds.
Aroma
The garden can be made aromatic by using foliage plants. The lavender perennial plant’s flowers provide therapeutic scent. At the same time, it serves as a beautiful border.
2. Wet Plants
Some landscapes come with wet areas like artificial ponds or waterfalls. To avoid leaving it bare, plants that thrive in wet soils are used to give beauty and natural effect.
3. Repellent Plants
More than coming up with a good landscape, it is also necessary to maintain it and keep it free from intruders. Some plants are able to repel pests like the deer. Some ornamental grasses and flowers are used for deer control.
4. Grasses
These are also helpful in the garden. There are varying kinds of grasses, the ornamental type and the functional ones.
Functional grasses are those that are used in the background. Lawn grass is an example. It serves as an outdoor carpet.
Ornamental grasses appeal more to aesthetics. They are used for decoration and for landscaping just like flowers. These can be mixed with trees and shrubs or can stand alone.
Plants are beautiful, but the appropriate ones in a certain design must be selected and properly situated. They must thrive and be able to serve their purpose. This is the only key to bringing nature closer to the home.
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How to Maintain a Landscaped Garden
Posted on 28. Mar, 2009 by Mark Coleman.
Landscaping a garden is one way of designing the house. It is an enjoyable way of making the exterior part of the house look beautiful. However, problems may arise in maintaining the landscaped garden.
The following are effective solutions that will help maintain a landscaped garden and provide solutions to problem areas:
1. If the garden is too rocky, the rocks may be used as a design that will create a beautiful rock garden. Putting the excess rocks together to create a slope will add a natural look in the garden. The slope that was formed with the rocks will keep the garden from looking flat and unattractive
2. If the problem is too much sunlight in the garden that causes drought, a solution for is to use plants that are low maintenance and can be planted even in direct sunlight. The plants will survive even when there is less water or too much sunlight.
3. Another maintenance solution if the place has too much sunlight is to plant shade trees at the corners of the garden. This will keep sensitive plants away from direct sunlight and will help keep the soil moist. Regular watering should be continued if needed.
4. Sometimes the garden becomes too shady which causes difficulty in growing certain plants. The solution for this is to choose plants that can survive even in the shade.
5. If there are weeds or unwanted plants growing in the garden, they should be pulled. You must pull the weed and its roots to prevent the weed from growing back. Trimming and cutting the weeds will only give temporary results. It is best to pull everything out to prevent the return of the problem.
These are just common solutions to some problems encountered in maintaining a landscaped garden. To keep the maintenance an easy job, it is recommended that you tend the garden regularly. This will prevent small problems from getting bigger and more difficult to handle. If the landscaped garden is well maintained, the plants and trees will last a long time and will save money as you will not have to buy new plants or accessories.