Flowering shrubs, a great way to add color to your yard

Flowering shrubs are a great way to add color to your yard or garden. They are becoming more and more prominent in our landscape as people are continuously looking for both a little height and season long color in their yard. Flowering Shrubs are sometimes called landscape darlings because they are relatively inexpensive, easy to grow and require little maintenance. They are perhaps at their best when in bloom as with their masses of blooms they can stand alone used for a focal point, or be grouped together with other shrubs or perennials; they are great any where in your landscape.

Flowering shrubs are major contributors to the garden’s summer color palette. You can have accents of color throughout the garden from glossy Abelia, Crapemyrtle, Butterfly Bush and Rose-of-Sharon, but the predominant player is Hydrangea.

Flowering shrubs are usually deciduous (shed their leaves in winter) and are grown mostly for their flowers. They are often propagated by softwood cuttings. Late spring and early summer are the best times for success with this method. They are best planted in the early spring to give the root system time to take hold before hot summer weather sets in. Flowering shrubs are never pruned in the spring though. They are pruned according to their bloom time. Early bloomers such as Forsythia and Lilac, in fact most flowering shrubs, are best pruned immediately after flowering but before their buds set.

Forsythia is one of the earliest blooming shrubs. It produces an abundance of vibrant yellow flowers that cover its branches. Forsythias can look great when in bloom and then pretty uninspiring the rest of the year. Many of these plants have an optimum age of each cane for flower production, say, canes three or five years old. Forsythias are quite easy to grow as they do well with most types of soil, although they thrive best in rich loose soil, needing only the occasional pruning after flowering.

Lilacs shrubs prefer a fertile, well-drained soil in full sun and provide spring blossoms along with the Forsythia and February Jasmine. Lilac mulching seems to help.

Rose-of-Sharon are slow to get going in the beginning. They're kind of lazy, actually, but they are fairly easy to take care of. They prefer full sun locations but also do well in partial shade. Rose-of-Sharon are much hardier than even the hardiest Hibiscus.

Azaleas are another type of flowering bush. They are often known as the royalty of the garden. Azaleas do best with plenty of organic matter in the soil.

Azaleas and Rhododendrons are really great shrubs, but for me the premier spring-flowering shrubs are the Viburnums. They are the favorite plants of many horticulturists, but are very underused in most of our gardens.

Flowering shrubs are planted in home gardens for a variety of reasons. They are typically sought after for their decorative qualities. They make great garden borders when planted side-by-side or in between other types of plants. Flowering shrubs provide an eye catching framework in any garden design.

Flowering shrubs “by the yard”

What part does water play in our yards

Water Gardening is playing an ever increasing role in our yards and it's easy to see why. They aren’t that difficult to set up or maintain and really the biggest reason is they bring tranquility to our yard. As a result water gardens are one of the fastest growing trends in gardening and outdoor living. All you need to begin water gardening is a container that will hold water! It can be small or large, ambitious or modest, but for sure it will be fun!

At first glance, it may seem that water gardening is too much work for the average gardener or too complex, but that is just not the truth. Once a water garden is set up, it requires less work than a regular garden to maintain, no watering, and no weeding. They are hard to resist.

A pond can be anything from a teacup to a natural bottom lake but generally, the larger the water garden, the more stable the environment is for the plants and fish in it. I personally have one that is sort of round and only 5 feet across but a 5' x 8' water garden is a good size, however no matter how big you make it, once you have the water garden bug, it will never be big enough. The real question is what size fits in your yard and will be in proportion to everything else?

Here are some points to consider.

1. Clear Water
Probably the main thing that all of us want is clear water. I believe this is best achieved by the pond finding its natural balance. This is done by letting the plants and fish, along with the good algae and beneficial bacteria work together to reproduce a natural setting. Though filters can be used to help keep the water clean they also can help grow the beneficial bacteria. They are sometimes a must for small ponds.

2. How about fish
It is not necessary to have fancy fish or snails; you can have just as much pleasure from having gold fish in your pond. You can buy large ones from your garden center that are meant for your pond. If you want to have some Koi fish that is great, they are a lot more colorful but whatever fish you use be sure to not feed them very much if at all. Feeding them contributes to excess nutrients in the water from their waste and they aren’t encouraged to feed off the natural food that is in the pond like algae.

3. What about the plants
Most people want at least one water lily and that is great but it is best to combine different plants mixing the tall, slender, spiky shapes of the fine-leaved marginal plant like the yellow flag iris with the broad-leaved foliage of say an arrow head plant. You can get great ideas from your garden center that will fit your pond. Most water plants require very little care. Once they are established, all you need to do is remove dead leaves and fertilize them regularly with special water plant fertilizer tablets or stakes.

If you are looking for information on how to install a pond in your back yard check out Installing a garden pond with a flexible liner at homerenewall.com where you will find step by step information.

At the end of the day, are you feeling tired, worn out and stressed? As humans, we are always seeking water to clean, refresh and rejuvenate ourselves. But we are only now learning about the benefits of stress relief and relaxation you will gain from just hearing the sounds of water created in your own backyard. Especially if you are relaxing on a comfortable chair or lounger from Teaks n More where you will find teak wood outdoor furniture that fits you lifestyle.

Water Gardening "by the Yard"

Trees provide focal points and serve as anchors

Trees provide many positive elements in your yard’s design and choosing the right ones is crucial. Trees provide focal points and serve as anchors for surrounding shrubs and plants. Your eye is drawn to focus in on the trees that have the most pleasing appearance. Trees are a very common method of providing privacy to your yard, both by blocking view, as well as noise and conversation, we all know our neighbors have those good ears! They will also keep street noise levels down. You may also want to consider the energy savings a tree will provide in the summer when cooling your home. A tree will absorb a considerable amount of heat from concrete and will block the sun during hot summer months.

There are many things to consider when choosing a tree for you yard. Begin by asking yourself: Why do I want a tree? For shade? Privacy? Something to look pretty, or block the view of the neighbor's less-than-lovely backyard? Here are some things that will help you make the right decision.

Size
You should take into consideration the ultimate size of the tree and allow enough room in the landscape to accommodate it. Choosing the right size tree will reward you with many years of enjoyment as the tree reaches its ultimate size and mature beauty. Size them proportionate to your yard by using small or medium-sized varieties for smaller houses and yards. On any site, put smaller trees near the house and taller ones farther out in the yard or at its edge. Planting a large tree in a tight area, such as beneath a power line or too close to a structure, can create maintenance problems or property damage. Choose small-spreading trees if you wish to locate them under overhead utility lines.

The Location you choose to plant it
Make sure you allow for branch growth and the full size of the tree in choosing where to plant them. Planting larger trees on the east, south and west sides of your home can maximize energy savings in southern climate and planting on the north side saves energy cost in the winter months in the north. Other things to consider are their root systems, such as willows, for instance, as they are particularly aggressive so they should be planted well away from structures. Ashes, red maples, white spruce, river birch and sycamore can do well in wet conditions if their other needs are met. Also, certain species shed leaves, sap, flowers, and seeds; crab apples and cherries drop fruit everywhere, tempting children and prone to sticking to your shoes. When trees are planted too close together, they cannot develop a healthy root structure as there is simply not enough space for the roots to grow.

The trees' shape, texture and color
There are trees used for privacy, small ornamental and other landscape trees and shade trees all with different shapes and color. They each provide a natural beauty of their own. Like the naturally symmetrical form of blue spruce which allows an attractive Christmas tree shape to often be produced with a minimum of shearing. Japanese Maples are usually quite small with red leaves and very attractive ornamentals. Red Maples are large and provide a large spreading canopy of shade and bring wonderful color to their fall leaves.

Climate and soil conditions
Your climate plays a very important role as to which tree species will grow well. So does your soils pH, which is a measure of its acidity, and your soil’s pH really makes a difference as to which trees will be healthy. Soils with a pH of 7.0 or greater will not grow healthy oaks and red maples. Also if the soils are heavy clay or drain slowly, that will limit species selection because many trees can not survive in these soils.

Lifespan
Different species have different life spans. For example, Maple and Oak will live it seems forever while Laurel Oak only lives about 50 years, and becomes increasingly susceptible to storm damage and disease the older it gets. Fast-growing trees will increase in height by several feet a year but typically have a shorter life span.

Care
Every kind of cultivated tree has assets that suit it for some landscape use. Each also has certain requirements critical to its survival in the yard. Giving your tree the proper amount of care and water will allow the root system to develop properly. A well developed root system means a full, lush, healthy tree! The success of your tree will also depend on how well you prepare the soil and how conscientiously you care for it.

Some people’s method of choosing a tree for their yard is to drive around town and look for ones they like and discover some of the common species that are being planted. This is not all bad but it can lead to less tree species diversity in your area.

You can also ask yourself what trees nurture your soul, fit your lifestyle, and will give you years of pleasure and enjoyment, but be aware a mature plant can look much different than a young one. Many specimens look nice as young plants, but look very different 20 years later. Others are just the opposite - they start off less appealing, but mature very nicely.

Just remember planting trees in your yard will enhance your neighborhood’s environment, produce colorful foliage and beauty and provide many years of enjoyment.


Planting trees “by the Yard”

Residential fencing is both functional and attractive

Fences are often a major element of a streetscape, and serve to indicate where public and private property meet. Residential fencing is a wonderful way to provide not only security for home, children and pets, but also provides excellent privacy.

We are going to look at four different types of fencing materials. Wood fencing is the traditional fence used around the backyards of most homes. Its functions range from decorative, containment, privacy as well as security and it’s aesthetically pleasing while vinyl fencing has timeless styling and is more intricate than wood fencing. Ornamental fencing, in turn, is high quality, elegant and high in toughness and strength. Chain link fencing is functional and cost effective but can look commercial.

Wood fencing is still one of the most popular fencing materials in North America. Many people prefer the look and warmth that wood offers. It is very rustic and natural looking and when you consider that many people are now concerned about the environment, the idea of putting up a fence made of a renewable resource is very attractive. Custom wood fencing is just that; custom. You can incorporate any design that you can imagine into a wooden fence. Custom Wood fencing adds beauty and value to your home and is a great choice for any yard, pool or garden. Pressure treated southern yellow pine is the most cost effective materials and will also last the longest. Western red cedar, a Pacific Northwest product is generally more expensive than white cedar from Maine and Eastern Canada due to high freight costs but is a desirable wood for fencing. Non Pressure treated wood or cedar generally needs a finish to protect the wood and add to its longevity as well.

Vinyl fencing comes in many styles and sizes and is available in a few different colors. By choosing from a variety of post caps you can further customize your fence. Vinyl is a sound and viable investment in the future of your home. Once your vinyl fence is installed, you will not have to deal with the problems of painting, rusting nails, splinters and rotting boards associated with a wood fence. Newer vinyls even mimic a wood grain look.

Specialty or Ornamental Fencing like wrought iron can also come in aluminum. Aluminum fences in wrought shackle designs are very popular. Aluminum fences are available in a wide variety of styles, designs, colors, and heights. Aluminum fences are priced according to their grade and style of manufacture. Fences for residential use are made of a lighter gauge and are thus priced lower than industrial grade fences. The use of appropriately designed aluminum fences can enhance the looks of your home, pool, yard, or wherever they are used.

Chain-link fencing is an affordable way to create a barrier for pets and children without using a privacy fence. Residential applications come in 4-ft., 5-ft. Chain-link fence is one of the most versatile and widely used fence systems today, but it is not always very attractive. It has become more colorful and stylish in the past few years as it is available in a colorized vinyl coated finish for a much more attractive look. The standard colors of vinyl coated chain link are black, brown and green. Its lattice structure also creates an excellent trellis for vines and bushes.

One mistake you should not make is erecting your fence without regards to legal property lines or local codes. To determine the legal boundaries of your property, it is recommended that a surveyor be hired.

Residential fences really make a difference and can be used to screen off an area of the garden; hide an unattractive spot, structure or object; to grow creepers on or add effect to another wall or surface. The style of your house and the look you are trying to achieve are factors to be considered in the design and type of fence you choose for your yard. They give definition to your yard and add style and value to your home no matter which type you use if it is done right.

Residential Fencing “By the yard”

Hedges are the perfect natural dividers

Many gardeners want a hedge to maintain privacy in their yard or protection from the wind when the cold weather arrives. But Hedges have many uses in your back yard and can be an important feature of any yard or garden. They are living walls that are restful to the eye and offer smooth contours and texture. They are formed by shrubs or small trees, and can be used to
-block views
- delineate boundaries
-direct pedestrian traffic
-act as barriers
-create garden rooms
-or serve as a backdrop for other plants.

They are also important features for other reasons. They provide habitat for birds and other wildlife, and insects from butterflies to bumble bees. When you incorporate living walls into building development, you create aesthetically pleasing environments, help reduce greenhouse gases, and decrease energy costs.

Hedges are the perfect natural dividers for your garden. They do make great wind brakes, and unlike wooden panels they don't create turbulence behind them. They can be trimmed low to define the edge of a walk or to bring neatness and order to a garden. Hedges make a wonderful boundary, even in small gardens, but they do need regular maintenance, such as pruning, in order to retain their shape. By mid summer, most will have that shaggy, unkempt look and are in need of a trim. They vary greatly in form and species. The ideal hedge should be made of a mixture of species, which do not grow rapidly, thus reducing the need for trimming. Trimming is not only done for visual appeal though, but regular trimming is necessary to train the hedge to grow to its fullest capacity. Managing your hedges is critical to the success of your yard.

Evergreen shrubs are an important choice to consider for your hedge, in order to insure green color presence during the long gloomy days of winter. Evergreen hedges are also easier to grow and require less training and pruning than deciduous hedges. Evergreens are my first choice, think of cedar, yews, blue or white spruce, hemlock, cypress, and juniper. They are, however, more susceptible to damage from heavy snow in the winter months.

Evergreen hedges are almost always used to define spaces and create a visible structure within the garden. These vegetative fences, tall or small, keep the garden organized by subdividing it into compartments that are proportionate to one another.

Deciduous hedges on the other hand can provide a great variety of leaf color and texture, interesting berries and beautiful displays of blooms in season. An example is the Fuchsia which can be grown into low hedges where they will give a spectacular show of flowers and edible berries. Trimming these hedges annually drastically reduces the availability of berries as they are produced on second year growth in woody hedge species, such as hawthorn. Also rotational trimming can save time and money. Cutting interior branches can promote good health but can make the hedge look bad and, if done after the main spring growth, may remain visible for months.

On the down side Hedges can be the cause of disagreements between neighbors. These often relate to the size and tidiness of the hedge, and about cutting the hedge. However if you get along with your neighbors you should be able to come to an agreement with them.

Hedges at their simplest are vertical gardens and are also known as green or eco-walls and as vertical wetlands. In addition to the stunning aesthetic benefits, they also benefit air quality as the plants can help filter our air and are sometimes used indoors as a sustainable method for curing 'sick building syndrome'.

Next time you think of putting up a fence in your yard stop and think of using a hedge instead. It is not as instant but with a little patience I think you will be pleased with the results.

The benefits of Hedges “by the yard”