Just a little imagination and inventiveness, however, can turn the humble garden shed into a positive asset, providing an extension to your living space that's as attractive as it is useful. Using garden sheds to get the most out of your home takes a little money but reaps large rewards.
Garden Produce
Give your vegetable garden a head start and save money in the process by using a section of the shed as a potting area. Arrange a bench, or shelf, beneath the window to catch the most light, and use the area to bring on seeds, repot houseplants, or divide garden shrubs. The warmth of the shed will offer vital protection to seedlings until they can be planted out in the vegetable garden, and you'll have the satisfaction of growing from seed.
Summerhouse
Sheds come in all shapes and sizes, and if yours is large enough you could turn it into a summerhouse or a crafts area. Paint the shed in a pale, summery shade and adorn it with hanging baskets. Place colourful planters by the door and soften its edges with mature shrubs.
The kids will welcome somewhere to play out of the weather and it'll give you a place for messy craft activities, such making papier mache, that won't leave your kitchen in a tangle. Alternatively, your summerhouse can be a convenient garden area to prepare cold drinks or store summer snacks. If you run an electrical cable down the garden, you can install a small fridge or set up a television. Transporting some of your activities out to a suitably equipped garden shed expands the use you get from your home, allowing to more fully use the available space.
Home Office
Dividing work hours and leisure hours is a constant thorn in the sides of those who work from home. Having a home office that's detached from the house provides the solution since the physical act of entering or leaving the workplace marks the beginning and end of the working period. Make sure the roof is secure and the interior walls are lined and weatherproofed, secure the door with a sturdy lock and provide some form of heating, and your garden shed is ready to be kitted out with a desk, cabinets and drawers.
Labels: Garden, Garden Sheds, Home, Sheds
Tropical Garden Design - Have A Holiday Resort Right At Home
0 comments Posted by ariya at 12/22/2011One of the most defining features of tropical garden design is the abundant use of plants and flowers in a variety of different shapes, sizes and colours. Tropical foliage comes in many vibrant colours that include yellows, reds and purples in addition to many shades of green. These plants also tend to have dramatic looking flowers; frangipani, hibiscus and bougainvillea being some of them. You can have a great time picking and choosing these plants, adding jasmines as well because they are beautiful and fragrant. Bamboos and canna lilies are also popular because they give an instant tropical look to a garden.
Tropical garden design also includes the use of statues, lanterns, vases and other decorative containers, banners and colourful umbrellas. These articles are very easy to find these days and you do not have to travel to tropical destinations in order to pick up decorative elements for your garden. You could also include paths and water features.
Most garden design firms offer this particular concept in a contemporary manner. They will create a garden that has a Thai, Balinese or Polynesian look depending on your preference. Have a detailed discussion with the landscape designers you hire to find out how much the project will cost, including how much you will need to spend in order to maintain the garden. Your garden will need a lot of maintenance in order to remain looking attractive and you should only put in as many plants as you are comfortable looking after.
You will have a lovely time entertaining friends and family in your garden if you put in the right kind of infrastructure such as seating, lighting, a bar or a barbecue pit. Choose a landscape design firm that has a lot of experience in doing up tropical themed gardens. You can then be sure that your money will be spent effectively.
Labels: Garden, Garden Design, Holiday, Resort, Tropical
There are so many solar outdoor garden decors that you can choose from at the market. The decorations will depend on the type of garden that you also have. Make sure that the decors that you will use match the style of your garden as well. Matching the decorations is very important for it is the factor that determines the beauty of a garden. solar outdoor are only ideal and best to those garden that has big space like those backyard garden. Putting lights in your garden could really set a mood. It could also promote a relaxing mood. It depends on what mood you want to project in your garden. If you want to see your options with regards to solar garden decors, what you can do is do a little research online or visit the nearest garden store in your place and see what they have for you. This might require your time, effort and patience.
Few tips before you buy make sure that you have an idea what type of solar garden decors you want to use and have for your garden. Buy only those that you need and suits your budget. If you are not sure, try to ask people who have expertise in garden for ideas and tips. Using the right kind of solar garden décor could really help you save money for you don’t have to end up buying the wrong items.
Labels: Garden Decor, Outdoor, Solar
Why a Professional Is Best
Why should you hire a garden designer instead of just doing it yourself? There are actually numerous reasons why these professionals can help you.
• A professional is able to create the space you want to do what you want. In other words, his or her skill can help you to get the function you want out of the landscaping. That is not the easiest thing to do on your own.
• What is the budget? If you do not want to spend a lot of money on the project, or you need to stay within a specific budget, it is best to turn to a professional to get the job done. You can often get more for less with these professionals.
• Do you have a specific idea in mind but don't know where to get the supplies you need? That is another reason to call on these professionals.
• Are you searching for the help you need to get your design off the ground? Perhaps you have no idea even where to start. This type of professional can help ensure the right design for your needs is put into place.
• It is a good idea to turn to a professional garden designer to ensure that your system is structurally sound. From hard and soft landscaping the installation and design needs to ensure water flows away from the home. It also needs to work to reduce water needs.
• With a professional, you get a garden that will grow and do wonderful things for you. Without that professional, you have to assume that your plants and lawn are getting the right nutrients necessary.
To ensure that your landscaping has the right tools to grow and do wonderful things, turn to a professional. A garden designer will work with you, hand in hand, to design the space that is right for you, based on what your likes and needs are. It is also a good idea to turn to a professional just for the experience. You will learn a great deal about what you can expect from your landscaping, how to maintain it and even how to add to it or change it down the line. Hiring this professional can help make your job easier to manage overall. It adds value to your home and can help your home to shine for years to come.
Many vegetable seeds will grow well and give you a good crop if you can plant them straight into tilled soil in hills or rows. The supplies that you are going to need for a vegetable garden include a garden hose, garden rake, garden trowel, vegetable seeds, shovel, and a watering can. First be sure your outdoor temperatures will not be dropping to the freezing level; if the seeds freeze they will not survive. The vegetable seed packets will give you the information regarding when you can start planting in your area, how deep the seeds need to be place, how far apart the seeds should be and the best method for producing great results.
If you plan on planting the seeds in rows you need to make several channels with the use of a garden hoe. Each of the channels needs to be as deep as recommended by the seed packet for that vegetable. Generally speaking the larger the seed the deeper it gets planted in the soil. The small carrot seeds only need to be about 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep while the larger seeds, such as beans, will need to be planted a good two inches deep. Place the seeds in the channel at the recommended distance apart, then cover loosely with the back of a rake or with your hands. Tamp that row of seeds with the back side of your rake enough so the wind will not blow the soil away. Water thoroughly but use a garden hose or watering can that is equipped with a fine-spray.
For hill planting gather your soil to form a mound to a 3 to 4" height and 12 to 18" width. Your seed packet will probably let you know high and wide the hills need to be for planting. You can use your finger or a stick to make a hole into the center of the mound as deep as recommended. Insert 2 or 3 seeds into the hole, cover them with the soil and press down just enough to make sure the soil contacts the seeds well. Thoroughly water the hills the same way as if you planted in rows.
Often times it can be better to plant varieties of flower seed indoors and then transplant them to the flower garden after the last frost. The time needed before transplanting outdoors depends on the flowers you choose. All this information can be found on the individual seed packet or in a seed catalog. Some packets tell you to plant indoors 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost. Some seeds such as zinnias or cosmos can be planted directly outdoors but in order to get an early start you can plant them inside first to transplant later. Geraniums and licorice plants may need as long as twelve weeks before they start sprouting.
The main reason for starting seeds indoors is to help germination by use of heat and water and seed growth with the help of grow lights. You can help prevent "damping-off" with proper drainage and air circulation; this air circulation can be done with an electric fan blowing across the soil surface gently during the daytime. You want to start "hardening off" your tender seedlings a week to 10 days before planting outdoors. Stop fertilizing, cut watering down to half the amount, keep then in a cooler inside space, start letting them receive some direct sunlight and introduce them to outdoor temperatures. You can start by placing the trays outside for about an hour during mid day and increase gradually the time spent outdoors. You do not want them out when it is cold, in heavy rain, strong winds and bring them inside during the night.
Before you purchase any garden seeds pick up some garden seed catalogs and do some browsing to see the different varieties of flower seed and vegetable seed packets that might interest you. You may even want to try some that you have never heard of before and it might turn out to your liking. Just remember to use reliable sources when you purchase your garden seed.
Labels: Garden, Garden Seed
How To Make An Organic Garden - Maximize The Growing Times With Your Organic Garden
0 comments Posted by ariya at 2/17/2011By starting them indoors. If you live in a climate where the growing season is very short, you may want to start your seeds or sprouts before the actual outdoor season starts to maximize on the crops you can grow.
Starting them inside isn't much different from starting your garden outside, except you'll obviously growing them in pots instead of in a full size garden bed.
The perfect timing is about 1-2 months before you will be able to transplant them into your garden outside. Any longer than this and you may end up with over crowding and stringy plants from them fighting each other for the sunlight.
One way to avoid this potential issue is to only plant one to two plants per pot. While this may be the optimal way to do it, it may also be unreasonable. If you don't have adequate sunlight in the house, you'll end up with lots of pots full of dead plants.
The first step is to determine exactly how much growing space you have, that has access to direct sunlight and to go from that.
You will also need to make sure your containers have proper drainage or you could end up drowning your seeds or sprouts. The best soil for this, if you are going the store bought route, is soil meant for African violets. It has adequate drainage, as well as the nutrients your seeds need to get started.
Make sure you follow the instructions on the seed packages as to how much soil they need to be planted in, as well as how much soil should be placed over top of the seeds. You don't want to plant them too deeply or they will have the inability to germinate.
Once planted, take care of them as you would in your outdoor garden. Make sure they get adequate sunlight and water and just keep an eye on them till the season is right to plant them into your outdoor garden.
Organic gardening is a great way to save money and create healthy organic produce. Started early indoors you can maximize on your growing season and make the most of your plants, and crops.
By: Scott Lilly
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Tag : garden,organic garden,home garden,flower garden,garden decor
Path lighting may be utilized to brighten up any path that you simply or others may walk along inside your yard, such as a garden path, a driveway, or walkway leading up to your home. Fixtures might also be placed along the sides and corners of your home to help you watch your step when you are walking around from 1 side of the home to the other.
Unlike some other forms of landscape lighting, path lighting is not meant to dazzle. Although it'll improve your yard's appearance, it is created to be subtle and practical, and need to not distract from other factors. Path lights are typically placed low to the ground, with the light shining downward. This way, you can see the ground well sufficient to walk safely, without being blinded by the glare glowing directly into your eyes.
When it comes to selecting the correct fixtures for your yard, there is a vast array of possibilities. Products are obtainable in every single color and style, ranging from mushroom lights to recessed fixtures or tiny spotlights. For bulbs, it is possible to choose between LED, low voltage goods, solar lights, and a lot more. A professional landscape lighting designer can assist you create the best path lighting plan for your property.
Path lighting is a goodway to impress your family members and close friends when they come to go to your residence. The lights leading the method to the door will make them really feel welcomed and protected. Even from your street path lighting makes your residence look stylish and well landscaped.
Tag : garden,home garden,garden decor,garden plants,flower garden
Getting things in order and keeping them that way is certainly one of the most important essentials of good housekeeping. This principle is as true in the garden as it is in the home. Almost every locality is subject to a certain amount of wind. It may be Just a light breeze but forceful enough to move small fragments of refuse, depositing them in your garden. Debris that is dropped In corners of your garden will probably remain unless you move them yourself. A few sweeps of a bamboo rake should solve this problem in no time.
This is also an excellent time for attaching the loose ends of vines to an adequate support. Many of these plants, with the approach of warmer weather, will be entering their active growing season. Unless properly trellised, they very quickly may become topheavy; then if a wind comes up they may be ripped to shreds. Further, vines that hang in a sloppy manner are certainly not very attractive; plant ties that are weatherized and easy to handle are now available at most garden supply stores. For just a few cents you can buy a quantity of them sufficient to last a whole season.
One of the most important house-cleaning jobs in your garden consists of getting rid of weeds. This chore, formerly looked upon with disgust, has now been made comparatively easy by selective weed killers. Today you can spray a lawn with a selective weed killer which will kill the weeds but prove non-injurious to the grass plants. So there is no longer any reason for having thousands of weeds cluttering up your lawn, proving an eyesore and depriving your grass plants of their necessary food and drink.
A grass shear and a lawn edger are two important tools for cleaning up your garden. Lawns that creep beyond their regular confines, trespassing across the sidewalk are definitely a bad eyesore. A lawn edger will take care of them in no time and it should be used each time after the lawn is cut. Also if you have trees in your lawn the watering basins should be clearly outlined. Use a hand grass clipper for this purpose.
Spraying or dusting at regular Intervals is also part of your spring garden-cleaning program. During the active growing season you should keep after the bugs about once every seven or 10 days. Also, prune back hedges that have lost their good looks; cut off flowers before they become full blown and go to seed; and apply sufficient food and water so your plants will look fresh and healthy.
Tag : garden,home garden,garden decor,garden plants
There are several types of patio furniture and some are more comfortable than others, but the most hard-wearing and the most popular is garden furniture manufactured from hardwood. Unfortunately, hardwood is exactly what it says it is - hard wood. It can be fairly uncomfortable to sit on hardwood furniture for more than an hour.
The simplest way to get round this is to use outdoor throw cushions. These outdoor throw cushions can be just indoor throw cushions, if you remember to take them in each day, otherwise they will soon start to rot after the first time you leave them out in the rain. It is easier said than done to take the cushions in each night.
Therefore, it is worth giving some thought to making special cushion covers for your outdoor cushions. These cushion covers have to be waterproof and the zip fastener should be protected too so that water cannot enter through there either.
This can be achieved by covering the zip with a flap, as used on standard bed pillows, and sealing it with Velcro. You could use poppers, but Velcro is simpler and better.
If you are purchasing new garden furniture, you might get throw cushions supplied with the package. If not, and you would like to buy outdoor cushions at the same time, check them for waterproofness as talked about above. The other thing to look out for is that the cushion covers match the style of the furniture and the sort of garden that you have.
The covers of the garden outdoor throw cushions can be patterned or plain, but do consider the colours already in your garden. Is there a lot of colour from flowers or is green the predominant colour? And do not forget the colour of your garden furniture either.
You will also need to make sure that these cushion covers are washable, because they will get unbelievably dirty fairly often, if you leave them outside. They will be rained on, splashed on, cats and dogs will sit on them, and they might even blow about the garden unless you tie them down, which is not a bad idea. You could sew short ties onto them to keep them on the furniture while you are not using them.
If the covers are washable, then make sure that the colours on the cushions are permanent and will not fade or run. Lastly, a lot of materials will tolerate a couple months of sun, but some will not tolerate the freezing temperatures of winter, so remember to take them in for the winter months.
Organic Container Gardening - Simple And Easy Ways To Grow Vegetables And Flowers In Pots
0 comments Posted by ariya at 6/04/2010The biggest and obvious difference is that instead of planting directly in the ground, you'll be using containers to grow your plants. But using containers is where the added benefits come into play.
Containers double as barriers protecting plants from soil-born diseases and pests larvae that are present in the soil. It offers flexibility to move plants around as and when needed, to protect from unfavorable weather conditions such as hot summer and freezing winter days, for example. It allows for easier plantscaping, giving you more freedom to design a functional and attractive organic garden, as often as your whim dictates. Best of all, organic container gardening makes it possible to bring your garden indoors where you can enjoy the same benefit as you would outdoors.
And if that's not enough, growing plants in pots is also fairly easy and requires no special effort. To illustrate the point, here are seven simple ways to grow vegetables and flowers in containers.
1. Choose the size of the container based on the size of the mature plant and its root system. Plants with expansive root system need large containers. The size and material of the container affects its ability to hold moisture. But moisture-retention capability can be improved through the soil or by lining pots with non-porous and non-absorbent materials. Choose decorative pots with provision for collecting drained water for indoor plants. Choose durable containers that can withstand the elements for outdoor gardening.
2. Ensure that containers are fitted with enough drainage holes to prevent standing water. Line the bottom of the container with coarse gravel to ensure proper drainage.
3. Start with a good standard potting soil mixture. Add compost to the potting mix to supply nutrient to the plant. Use organic liquid fertilizer to give your plants instant boost. Use slow-release fertilizers for a steady and longer nutrient supply.
4. Place plants in containers where they can enjoy adequate sun exposure everyday. Five to eight hours are recommended depending on the plant's light requirement. Turn your plants regularly for equal exposure of all side to the sun.
5. During extremely hot days, move your plants under a shade to avoid wilting. Consequently, move them indoors to protect them from frost once winter sets in.
6. Water plants in containers more frequently than you would plants in the ground. Containers can only hold relatively small amount of soil and dry out quickly. Don't water too often. Overwatering will suffocate the roots causing them to rot. Frequent watering also washes away the fertilizers in the soil. Don't wait until your potted plants start to wilt before you water them.
7. Maintain 1:1 plant-container ratio for bushy flowering plants and vegetables. If you're going to grow more than on plant in a container, make sure that they have the same sun, water and fertilizer requirement. Don't have too many plants in a single container. Overcrowding impedes good air circulation that plants need.
By: Nova Person
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
You may be among those who have been blessed with the green thumb and gardening is your ultimate pleasure. You can use it to your advantage and you can even spend your time usefully and leisurely with your family. You can involve them while you are also enjoying your hobby. There is nothing more relaxing and stress relieving than having a garden that you can appreciate. It is your closest bond to nature and it is healthy and helpful too. With the garden benches, you can relax, appreciate, and get close to nature.
The Art of Gardening
Gardening is an art and a craft. It requires the growing of flowering plants and fruit-bearing trees in one's own residence, which is what is called the garden. It is not an expensive leisure but it definitely is time consuming. The garden is typically located in an open surface area within the residence or adjacent to it, although there are some that you would see on the rooftop, on the balcony, in the atrium, in window boxes, or out on the patio. Gardening helps relieve the stress that has accumulated in your mind and body. Just looking at your garden from your garden benches helps you understand and appreciate nature.
Benefits of a Garden
Maintaining a garden is not just helpful because it relieves you from stress but it also helps in the oxygen and carbon dioxide cycle. We all know that plants give off the oxygen that we humans breathe in, while the carbon dioxide that we give off are taken in by the plants. It is a mutual process, a give and take. It is also helpful in a way that the degradable wastes in your home can be used as organic fertilizers to the plants. It will yield more mature and colorful flowers which will make your garden more appealing and beautiful to look at from the garden benches.
What You Will Need
A garden in the backyard does not really require a large space, as long as there is available space. You can just add lots of plants and accessories. You will need flowering plants, vines and creepers, and fruit bearing trees, and you can also install accessories like a swing, a fountain, garden benches, water body, bird houses among others. Employ your art and designing skills to equip your garden with the perfect combination and landscape it to add more beauty.
Appreciating Nature
Now that you have your garden, nothing is more relaxing than looking at this serene view from your garden benches. It is the ultimate place to relax and rest. With the delightful view, you can put aside all the anxiety, tension, and pressures and just enjoy the scenic landscape with all the colorful and attractive flowers. Nothing is ever comforting than enjoying the limitless beauty you will see from your garden.
For your outdoor home essentials, visit the site Home Seasonal Concepts. They have a wide collection that you can choose from. Everything that you will need to set up your garden outdoor will be made easy with the items at Home Seasonal Concepts. You will never have to look anywhere else.
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What’s in a Garden Bridge: The Stuff That Makes Your Garden Bridge Resist the Weather
0 comments Posted by ariya at 7/14/2009So after weighing all the options, plans, and ideas, you’ve decided that the next thing you need to complete your garden is the good old fashioned garden bridge. You’ve built your entire landscaping method around adding a bridge to your backyard, and only fate will keep you from incorporating this into your outdoor paradise. The only problem is you have no idea what your garden bridge needs to be made of. And with so many options out there, who knows what is best for your needs. How can you be sure that you’re getting the best investment for your money?
With the variations in construction of garden bridges out there, the best investment starts with doing the correct homework. Knowing what to expect, combined with where you live and the environmental hazards that go with your new decoration will ensure you’re getting the right thing at the right price.
One of the biggest things to remember is that garden bridges are not as easy to bring in during the winter months as the rest of your outdoor furniture. In some cases, once placed, your decorum becomes one with the land. This is something to consider when debating which one to purchase: not all materials handle the heat, rain, snow, dirt and debris as well as others. Furthermore, some materials are best to handle one situation or climate than others. Think very carefully before moving forward with a plan of action on how this will affect your bridge.
Now that you have debated the elemental problems that will plague your garden bridge, its time to consider the attack from below – how bugs will affect the use and life of your garden bridge. That’s right – bugs. Unlike the rest of your patio furniture, garden bridges spend their life attached directly to the ground, offering a home for pests of all seasons. Be careful of termites and other pests making a nice nest out of your garden bridge, as it will eventually be a health and safety hazard to your friends and family, and destroying the long life of a decoration you thought you would cherish for years to come.
With the weather and indigenous pests in mind, it is now time to consider what you want your garden bridge to be made out of. Three of the most popular choices of materials include cypress, cedar, and plastics. Cypress and cedar bridges give the charm and warmth that only wooden bridges can – they bring back memories of a simpler time, when trains and carriages crossed covered wooden bridges. These are excellent choices as well because of their density, the hardness of the woods, and their natural resistance to pests. Both cypress and cedar can withstand the harsh elements, and bring you joy throughout the year. Meanwhile, bridges made of plastics can last just as long, and guarantee you will not be dealing with a pest problem anytime soon. Made of recycled and synthetic materials, plastics will make sure you will be getting the best of your investment for years to come.
While getting a garden bridge seems like one of the hardest investments you will make, knowing what goes in them, and why they are a good choice for your home does not. A little homework on the right stuff will make your investment go a long way.
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In the market for a comfortable seating selection for your outdoor space, yet want something a little different from what everyone else has? Then, a fantastic option for you are relaxing garden benches, perfect for any deck, porch, or patio area.
For quite some time, garden benches could only be found in the garden and nowhere else, but over the years people have started to realize that they are actually a great choice for any space. Take your deck area for example, they would be a nice alternative seating option to single chairs sitting side by side, a group of party goers with a nice place to sit during those summer get-togethers. Another great option that you cut put one is on your front porch area, which would provide you, and the one you love, a nice spot to rest and enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors after that walk you take every evening. Other great places to you could put one include on the side of your house as a nice way to break of the empty, dead space, in your lawn area for a wonderful place to take a break during those lawn activities, and you could even put one indoors, like in your home foyer or entryway, as a lovely place to put on and take off shoes. Really, one would work well in any setting.
The reason behind why garden benches are such spectacular seating options for so many different areas is because of their fabulous design. This design will generally feature a spacious seating around, that will sometimes be curved or slanted, and may or may not have a backrest and armrests to match depending upon which model you end up purchasing. To make your selection even more comfortable than it already is, just buy a plush cushion for yours and one of the best options out there are Sunbrella Cushions, which are tremendously resistant to the weather.
Along with their high level of comfort, garden benches are also very appealing to the eye and can really add to the overall look of your space. They get that appealing look from the many lovely materials that they can be fashioned out of. Some of the better options include woods like Alder, Northern White Cedar, Western Red Cedar, Southern Cypress, Redwood, Meranti, and Teak along with manmade selections like resin and recycled plastic. Each material has a very eye-catching appearance and these materials are also very durable and make for sturdy selections that will stand the test of time in most outdoor settings.
So, if you are in the market for a relaxing place to take it easy, then a fabulous outdoor furnishing for you are garden benches. One would be a fantastic addition to any deck, porch, or patio area. To find the perfect one for your space, just log onto the world wide web and do some online shopping. It is fast and in no time at all, you will be sitting on your brand new seating selection, enjoying the beautiful outdoor weather.
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When people think about garden benches, they immediately believe that the only place they can be put is in the garden. Well, that just is not the case and even though the garden is still a great spot for one, there are still a number of lovely areas that they can go. Plus, not only would one add a wonderful seating option for you, your family, and guests, but it would also enhance the appearance of any space that it is put in.
Really, any place throughout your outdoor area would be a wonderful spot to put one, but if you are stumped on where you could place a few, gorgeous garden benches, then here are some awesome ideas for you. One idea is in your backyard deck or patio area. It would be not only be a nice way to complement the other furniture that you have, but you could also use it as the main source for your outdoor seating since they are so comfortable. Plus, they have a spacious seating area that would be perfect for a few people, so then during those summer barbecues or get-togethers, you do not have to worry about having quality seating for all of your guests. For even more luxury you can purchase a cushion for the ones that you get and one of the best available options are cushions made from Sunbrella fabric, which is water repellent, mildew resistant, and colorfast. Another idea on where you could place one is on the front porch as a nice spot where you, or a friend, can sit and take in the sights and the sounds of the neighborhood after a long day at the office, or a long relaxing walk. A third spot is just right in the backyard on the lawn, for a comfy place to rest during or after those intense lawn games with the family. You could even put one in your home as a rustic decorative twist, like in an entryway or basement area. Basically, they work well in any setting.
Wherever you decide to put one, you are not only adding a lot of comfort to the space, but also a lot of beauty since garden benches are extremely appealing to the eye with their different designs and finishes. Some can have very plain designs that you would see sitting in the park with just straight wood finishes while others can look very elaborate and feature different flamboyant colors. There are a lot of different options available and when you go to purchase yours, it is important to keep in a few things in mind when trying to find one. Like, what it is made out of because you do not want it to be constructed out of cheap materials since they will not be very durable and stable and will have to be replaced sooner rather than later. Some top quality materials include woods like alder, cedar, pine, shorea, and teak along with metal that includes stainless steel and yet another option is stone or brick. Each is very durable and will ensure that what your purchase will last for many, many years wherever you decide to put it. For an easy way to see all of the available options, check out the internet and all of the online stores. Not only is it an easy way to browse, but you will probably end up finding the best possible prices.
So, the next time that someone starts talking about garden benches and how they can only be placed in the garden, set them straight and let them know they would work well anywhere. And, not only do they offer a comfortable place to sit, but they also add to the appearance of the space that they are in. By purchasing one of these fine outdoor furnishings for your deck, patio, lawn, or porch, you cannot go wrong.
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Many fine gardens evolve gradually through the loving attention of their owners with little or no outside help. But when it comes to creating a new garden, or taking over an existing one that has fallen on hard times or that does not suit your taste or needs, it is well worth seeking advice from a professional garden designer.
The issues involved can be surprisingly complex, from drainage and construction through to siting trees and planting a border. How to deal with slopes and levels? How to forge a harmonious relationship between house, garden and surrounding landscape? What materials to use? How large to make a patio or pergola, how to site a water feature, pond or lake? How and where to incorporate outdoor lighting? Might planning permission be needed for any of this, and what order of costs might be involved?
Some of these questions might be answered by a knowledgeable gardener, others by a landscaper or builder, but for professional advice covering the whole process of planning and making a garden it is best to consult a qualified garden designer. Of course, before engaging any professional advisor you should first check their credentials and satisfy yourself that they are someone you can trust to interpret your brief in a sympathetic manner. The Society of Garden Designers, now celebrating its 25th year, is the only professional body in the UK devoted solely to garden design. Registered members have had their work individually assessed and must adhere to a code of professional practice. In the United States the equivalent body is the APLD (Association of Professional Landscape Designers).
A professional garden designer will listen carefully to your wishes before making any detailed proposals; time spent discussing practical needs and your likes and dislikes will help achieve a result that both you and the designer can be excited by. The hoped-for reaction from a client when they see that first presentation plan is “I never imagined anything quite like that, but it's exactly what I want”.
Beautifully drawn plans are all very well, but can they be put into practice? A garden designer will have thought through the practical implications of his proposals, including cost. He will be able to provide detailed working drawings and to source materials and plants, giving you a much wider choice than could be found at your local garden centre or builder's merchant. He will be able to find or recommend contractors to carry out the work, with costs and specifications agreed beforehand.
There is no denying that creating a garden can be expensive: expect to spend about the same on a new garden as on a complete new kitchen. Having detailed plans puts you in control and reduces the risk of unforeseen extra costs. A well designed garden makes good use of space that might have been wasted, making a small plot seem bigger and a large uninteresting space more intimate. The benefits of a new garden go on improving over time - planting typically takes three to five years to mature, for a larger garden ten years or more. Research shows that patients who have access to a garden, even if they can only look at it from a hospital bed, recover more quickly than those who do not, confirming what gardeners have known all along: gardens are good for you.
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Garden Finials – Ideal For Completing The Look Of Your Garden
0 comments Posted by ariya at 6/17/2009Are you looking for a way to really complete the look of your backyard garden? Like, you have beautiful flowers in place, even a winding path, yet it still seems to be missing something? If that is the case, a great way to cap off its appearance is with garden finials. These fixtures have a fabulous appearance and would actually be a great addition to any outdoor area in need of an extra special decorative touch.
What makes garden finials so appealing to the eye is their fantastic design that will generally feature a long spear like shape with comes to a sleek, pointed tip. There are also many variations made on this simple design though, giving your different options for finding just the right one for your space. Like, you can get one that has a spear shape sitting atop a wide sphere, others that have a Fleur Di Lis type shape, and some that even feature inter looping scrollwork. So, don’t feel like you don’t have a lot of choices, because you do.
One thing that even makes garden finials even more pleasing to the eye is the fabulous looking copper material they can be crafted from. Copper is very vibrant and shiny and create ones that simply glimmer with beauty. The copper material options can also be paired up with other materials as well, producing ones that have a very unique appearance. Like, the copper can be paired up with stained glass with the sphere of the finial being made from copper while its point is made out of the stained glass. Just imagine how beautiful that would look sitting in your garden. You could even put one on top of your roof if you like on its points to give your home a very attractive, finished appearance.
Not quite feeling garden finials, but still want a way to add a decorative touch to your garden or outdoor space. Well, you are in luck because there are many other fantastic outdoor accessories to choose from that are ideal for doing just that.
Like you could get a weathervane to put atop your roof or garden shed, garden stakes that come in all sorts of themed shapes from fairies to flowers, and you can even get rain cups to use in place of your rain gutters. And, the outdoor accessory options don’t stop there and some others include wind chimes, country bells, bird baths, outdoor clocks, sundials, outdoor wall art, and thermometers.
To easily check out all the different outdoor accessories, including garden finials, that you could purchase for your space, simply go online and do some shopping. Browsing the different products and comparing prices is a breeze, plus, when you do purchase something that you like, it will be shipped right to your door. Nothing has ever been so convenient.
In the end, if you want to nicely finish off the look of that garden of yours, or just add a decorative touch to your outdoor space, turn to garden finials to get the job done. They have a beautiful appearance that is sure to please.
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By judicious selection of flowering plants, it is possible to contrive that there shall be few failures in this area. Succession is the very keynote of good gardening, for you cannot afford to shorten the period during which flowers are possible, nor can you tolerate empty spaces in your borders, unless you plan on filling them with a water wall fountain, patio statuary, or outdoor waterfalls.
By consulting a seedsman's list you can select your plants and dispose of them so that as the spring blooming plants start to fail, others will succeed them for the summer months, and still others will take their place in autumn. This system of succession, when well arranged, will give you flowers from February to mid-November, thus covering the maximum period during which you are likely to be able to enjoy your garden.
It demands having a method to your choice of flowers, especially when the borders are laid out for a broad color effect, implying that each separate color group must contain plants of which some will always be in flower. In other words, the distribution of early, middle, and late-flowering plants must be over the whole space and in intimate association. Hardy plants alone come within the purview of the garden designer. The effects you can obtain from annuals and bedding out plants belong to the routine of garden management. But the same principles apply with regard to color, habit, period, and succession.
Art should be as much in evidence in the minor details of the garden as in the more important and more obvious ones (garden statuary, large fountains, outdoor water features). Carelessness in small matters may go a long way to undo the results of thought and skill devoted to the main features. Along with understanding the rules of guidance to which you should adhere when planning a garden, you must also understand the "how" and the "why" of these principles.
Although the construction of a garden plan on paper is a necessary preliminary to the practical operations on the site, it will only carry you a certain way toward the desired result. Much of the detail will have to be filled in on the ground. It is in the finishing touches that he may add distinction to the picture, and you should, therefore, study your work as it proceeds, looking for opportunities for minor embellishments and effects in detail.
This does not mean you should look for an over elaborated result, but you should be open to possibilities and not neglect any of the opportunities that may present themselves for an artistic style for your garden. In addition to beds and borders, there are other places where you can introduce charming effects such as large statuary, a wall water fountain, garden waterfalls, or ivy plants. A Virginia creeper, for example, planted at the foot of a clump of small firs can produce one of the most gorgeous pieces of color in a garden, with country residence in the foreground.
In only a short time, you will see that it will clamber up amongst the green foliage and festoon it with graceful sprays. In summer, the foliage will be light green against dark green, but when the leaves start to turn red in autumn, it will be indescribably beautiful. You can obtain a similar effect in a Scottish garden, in which a flame nasturtium (Tropaeolum speciosum) had taken possession of a large straggling elder tree, and wreathed it about with masses of scarlet. Even if the colors you create are by accident, you will take note of them and try to replicate them in other parts of the garden.
By: Allison Ryan
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Start with small pots, window planter or plant directly in your garden. Planting in small containers can give you a little bit more control over your herbs’ sun and weather exposure. Make sure that the containers you choose allow for plenty of drainage. Most herbs have delicate root systems that can easily rot if they are kept too wet. You can add rocks, moss or sand to the bottom of each container to encourage drainage.
The next step is to prepare the soil for your herb garden. You can just use potting soil, but a little extra effort can go a long way. Ideally, twenty-five percent of your mix should be compost material. Manure, humus and peat make good compost if you do not have your own compost bin. If your soil has a lot of clay, you may need to work in a little sand. Clay soil is usually orange or reddish in appearance. It is hard and does not drain well. If your soil has too much sand, it may drain too much. In this case, add more potting soil or compost.
Once your soil is prepared, you will be ready to plant. Sprouting from seeds will help you avoid soil borne diseases that may be lurking in nursery potted plants. Soak new seeds in water overnight if you have time. Another method is to place the seeds on a wet paper towel inside of a plastic sandwich bag for a few days. Make sure that you keep it sealed. When sprouts are about an inch long, very carefully transport them to their permanent location. If you want, you can plant seeds directly in their containers. Make sure that you cover them with plastic wrap to protect them while they are so little. Soil should be moist when you plant.
When plants are about two inches tall, remove the plastic and let them get some sun. Be careful about temperatures over eighty degrees at this stage. Baby plants can easily get too hot or too dry and die. Bring indoors at night if you are in an area that is still experiencing any colder weather. Most people choose to keep their herb garden inside until plants are more mature. A window sill is a great place to ensure that you are letting your herbs get enough light.
Watering is very important. Since you want your planters to drain well, you will also have to watch for dryness. Ideally, the soil should be moist, not wet. Water your herb garden about daily. Watch for wilting, yellowing, crusting or extra dry soil. If your herb garden is outside, use a hose reel to keep your water hose close at hand for easy watering. Enjoy harvesting your herbs for months to come!
By: Stacy Pessoney
Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com
Outdoor Garden Benches – a Great Addition For Any Backyard or Garden
0 comments Posted by ariya at 5/13/2009Whether you have small or big backyard or garden, with beautiful grass, flowers, and trees, having outdoor garden benches is a great addition. Placing benches on your patio, under a tree, in the entryway, or your garden, will add beauty to your landscape as well as a wonderful place to sit and rest.
Perhaps you have noticed public gardens, parks, playgrounds, etc. with benches to sit and rest or enjoy the view. Then why should your backyard or garden be any different? Adding garden benches will be a great addition to add to any home landscape. Setting up your bench in your favorite spot can be a great way to enjoy a sunny day, get some fresh air and enjoy nature.
You can make your garden look beautiful by planting flowers and trees, but to really appreciate the scenery you will need a place to sit. This is when you will need to consider building or buying some outdoor benches.
Today there are many designs and materials to choose from. Depending on your landscape and budget you will need to choose the best garden bench that will look best in your landscape. You can buy benches made out of wood, plastic, concrete or wrought iron. Depending on the style, size and material the price will vary. Price will usually be higher for a bench that has allot of details. A bench with no backrest will cost less than one with a backrest A simple bench will be more economical.
If you are handy with tools you can consider building some wood benches. Having plans with step by step detailed instructions you will be able to build beautiful looking wood benches. Cedar wood is among the best, and most common choice of wood to build or buy benches.
Building your own outdoor projects can be a very rewarding weekend hobby. If you have never built anything before, begin by looking at bench plans. You can find lots of plans online, many sites will have them for free. If you feel this is a project you can build, you will certainly save a lot of money and have a well built bench.
Although building your own benches will save you money, if you are just starting out, you might need to buy some tools. Buying your own tools can be a good investment, you will be able to build many outdoor projects. When buying tools, always invest in the best tools you can afford. High quality tools will do a better job, and last longer.
When working with power tools you will need to be careful. Read and understand the safety and instruction manual. Always be extremely careful when working with power tools or sharp tools. Know how to use these tools properly to avoid any injuries.
Weather you will building or buying your outdoor garden benches, this is something any gardener will enjoy and should not be without. Having benches placed in just the right location for yourself or guest will make your landscape pleasant and inviting.
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Garden Wall Fountains Are Increasingly Popular For Garden Aficionados
0 comments Posted by ariya at 5/10/2009Garden wall fountains are becoming an extremely popular amenity when it comes to adding or adjusting garden themes that may be large and small, simple or highly detailed. The serene flow of water can help block out outdoor background noise, and significantly enhancing the peacefulness and the tranquility in most outdoor areas. There are so many different options available when it comes to garden wall fountains, ranging from large and dramatic fountains, to small and space saving outdoor wall fountains.
By adding the element of water to an environment, you can greatly enhance it. There are a number of ways to add water to a garden, but by adding gorgeous garden wall fountains you can experience a tremendous garden enhancement without requiring that you invest an arm and a leg. If you are simply looking to add the element of water to your garden design, but do not have any interest in installing a fully functional pond or even a pool, then implementing your own outdoor wall fountains can be an exceptional idea.
There are a wide variety of garden wall fountains, including large and dramatic fountains that are made from premium quality cast stone, to small space saving wall mounted fountains that are created from lightweight cast resin. There is a great selection of different garden wall fountains available in most nurseries and other shop locations specializing in these stunning water based elements. Learn more about how you can incorporate garden wall fountains with your home garden at http://33isthenew23.blogspot.com/2007/11/looking-for-fountain-to-spruce-things.html.
Garden wall fountains come in sandstone finishes, weathered stone finishes and a variety of other finishes that are quite suitable both for indoor and for outdoor use. Fountains typically run using UL listed variable speed recirculation pumps, engineered in a way that allows them to offer maximum utility in conjunction with great beauty and tranquility without requiring a lot of maintenance. This is what makes outdoor wall fountains such an exciting proposition, and offers water based elements that are inexpensive which easily adds excitement to a garden that needs a little something added.
The greatest thing about garden wall fountains is that their numerous styles are available for virtually any garden setting. Therefore, you won’t run out of selections to choose from for your outdoor water fountains. If you have an idea of what you are looking for when it comes to adding something special to your garden, then you should have absolutely no difficulty at all when it comes to locating the absolute best garden wall fountains for your purpose.
There are a variety of different types of garden wall fountains, but there are just as many considerations that you need to make when it comes adding outdoor wall fountains to your property. Wall garden fountains make it easy for you to install garden fountains, especially for pet owners who have to protect their pets from trying to drink out of the fountain. By implementing a garden wall fountain, you can make sure that your pets will not try to get into your fountains and drink the water that may not be safe for them to consume. Learn more about outdoor fountains at http://shopazone.blogspot.com/2007/11/garden-foundations.html.
Now is the perfect opportunity for you to choose and install garden wall fountains if you are looking for a little bit of stunning architecture without paying an arm and a leg for a nice, beautiful change.
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