Landscaping
Home Renovations: Spruce up Your Landscaping with Trees
By: Danielle McVicar
Using trees to beautify your landscape can achieve excellent results, but with so many different varieties choosing which type to use can be difficult. You need to first decide what kind of environment and atmosphere you want your landscaping to have; different trees create different kinds of ambience. Also, keep in mind what kind of climate you live in; certain trees need certain kinds of weather to live and thrive.
There are many, many different kinds of landscaping trees, but most can be classified into four categories: flowering, evergreen, fruit-bearing and weeping.
Flowering trees perhaps have the greatest impact on landscaping. They add more of a décor and artistic look to your yard. Popular kinds of flowering trees include:
- Magnolia
- Crape Myrtle
- Dogwood
- Various Cherry Trees
Evergreens are a unique classification of tree because they are beautiful year round. They don’t lose their leaves as other trees do and are perfect for cold weather areas. Popular types of evergreen trees include:
- Blue Spruce
- Douglas Fir
- Dwarf Alberta Spruce
- Arborvitae
Fruit-bearing trees are a popular choice for landscaping not only because they are beautiful, but their fruit attracts birds and other small animals which can enhance the landscaping as well. Also, certain fruit-bearing trees produce fruit that is safe for human consumption and can be harvested and enjoyed. Popular kinds of fruit-bearing trees include:
- Apple Trees
- Cherry Trees
- Peach Trees
- Pear Trees
Weeping trees add a touch of elegance and drama to your landscaping. They are not only appealing to the eye but are useful as well, providing great amounts of shade to your yard. They are the most popular category for landscaping. Popular weeping trees include:
- Snow Fountain
- Weeping Higan
- Weeping Willow
- Weeping Mulberry
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Most Common Plants for Landscaping
By: Danielle McVicar
Having a comfortable and attractive home is something that most people pride themselves on, but the area surrounding your house is just as important as the house itself. Landscaping enhances the exterior of your home and surrounding area, making your living space more appealing to your family as well as others.
Choosing key elements for your landscaping can be difficult if you don’t know much about plants or flowers. Also, you must keep in mind the climate you live in as it might determine which plants you are able to grow. The most common plants used in landscaping consist of grasses, trees, shrubs and flowers. These plants are easy to maintain and care for as well as being visually appealing.
Grasses may not seem like an exciting landscaping choice, but they are being used more and more among different landscapes. Ornamental grasses, such as Pampas Grass and Big Bluestem, grow to be several feet high and are very easy to grow. Grasses add texture and height to your landscape, and are perfect for smaller areas where trees might not fit.
There are many different trees to choose from when landscaping, but one of the most popular and eye-catching is the Weeping Willow. This tree grows very rapidly and can reach heights of up to 50 feet. Weeping Willows provide vast amounts of shade to your yard while adding a touch of graceful beauty. The Weeping Willow is one of the first trees to grow leaves in the spring and the last to lose them in the fall.
Shrubs can also add to your landscape and are another good choice for smaller areas that lack trees. Perhaps the most popular and well-loved shrub is the purple lilac. This shrub is known for its sweet smelling, violet flowers that bloom in the spring. Purple lilacs only grow to be about eight to ten feet and are so tough that they can survive very harsh winters and still bloom the following spring.
Flowers are what provide the majority of your landscape’s color and texture. Perennial flowers are often used in landscaping because they return year after year without needing to be replanted, thus saving you money and work. Many perennials can survive in many different kinds of soil and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. Autumn Joy and Yarrow Paprika are two of the more common perennial flowers used in landscaping due to their resilience and beauty.
Knowing more about different landscaping plants will aid you in your decision and design, but if you still don’t know which ones to use you can always consult a professional.
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Big Landscaping Ideas for Small Yards
By: Danielle McVicar
Landscaping a small yard can prove to be a difficult task, especially when most landscaping elements seem to be designed for large and spacious yards. Making your yard interesting and attractive without appearing too cluttered might be tricky, but it is not impossible. By utilizing these tips you can landscape your small yard beautifully.
Creating one focal point in your yard will take emphasis away from its size. There are many different and appealing elements that you could use to catch peoples’ eye. Items you might want to consider using as a focal point include a small statue, bird bath, fountain, pond or rock garden.
Another way to decorate your small yard is by using container gardens or raised flower beds. Flowers and plants add much needed color and texture to your landscaping and the containers limit the amount of space that they take up. When landscaping in a small area, you want everything to maximize space as well as impact.
Colors can affect your landscaping just as they do your interior décor. Cool colors recede and create the illusion of spaciousness. Sticking to blues, greens and purples will make your small yard appear to be larger than it really is.
Incorporating brick into your landscaping can also have a positive effect. Surrounding your yard with edging brick may not make your yard look any bigger, but it will make it look neat and well designed. You can also use brick to section your yard and create paths to make it look more attractive and stylish.
You can do a lot with a small yard, and not only is it easier to decorate than a larger yard, but it is also easier to keep up and care for.
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How-To: Clean Your Gutters
By: Kelly Goldthorpe
An important component of home improvement is cleaning your gutters. Keeping your gutters unclogged allows water to flow away from your house. If gutters are left unattended, the water can seep down, damaging the sides of your house and causing problems with the foundation. While grimy, it is a relatively simple process that should be performed 2-3 times per year.
You will first need to access your gutters from the roof. Be careful when using a ladder that you do not place it directly on the gutters, which are typically unstable and break easily. The first and largest aspect of this task is cleaning out any major debris. With changing seasons, branches, twigs, and leaves accumulate and you will want to remove all of these. No need to start a compost pile on your roof! The best way to remove material is either with your hands or with a gutter scoop. You can furnish your own scoop by cutting the bottom off of a plastic bottle. It should be long and narrow though, to avoid damaging the gutter itself.
Once the major clumps of material have been removed, inspect for crusted dirt. This can be removed by wetting it down and scraping it out. Be careful because gutters are not like normal pipes and can be damaged easily.
The final step is to check the downspouts. Use your hose to see if water is flowing smoothly. Do not turn the pressure on high because gutters may not be able to handle the intense water flow. If water alone does not unclog the downspout use a plumber’s snake.
To prevent debris from building up in the future consider investing in wire coverings for your gutter. Remember that with an hour of maintenance you can keep your home in good condition and prevent any long-term damages.
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How To: Get Rid of and Prevent Dandelions
By: Kelly Goldthorpe
Back in your childhood you probably loved those golden “flowers” that you perceived dandelions to be. When they turned grey and puffy you would try to blow off all the seeds to get a wish come true. Now you have your own yard and those pesky yellow weeds are ruining your perfect lawn. You wish you hadn’t blown off those seeds when you were younger because maybe then you wouldn’t have to deal with dandelions in your lawn now.
To stop dandelions from infiltrating your lawn to begin with you can take some easy preventative action. Corn Gluten Meal (CGM) is an easily available herbicide which will prevent them from popping up in your yard. It’s safe for the yard and your family (including pets) because it is entirely natural. Just spread it over your lawn a month before growing season. It is only active for 5 weeks, so spreading it will be an ongoing process throughout the summer.
Corn Gluten Meal does not kill preexisting dandelions though. This will take some hard earnest work that can be outsourced to the nearest teenager looking to make $5.00. To actually destroy a dandelion you will need to attack the whole plant, including the root. Many tools are available to help reach the root and pull the weed up as a whole. You can also try dandelion herbicides like Round Up, which can help kill weeds. You shouldn’t water your lawn after you apply the herbicide though to make sure it has time to be effective.
If your dandelions have grown, mow over them to cut off their tops, preventing them from spreading their seed. Once they’ve gone grey, you’re in trouble.
Be proactive. Uproot them when they appear so you don’t have a full lawn to do one weekend. Your efforts will pay off. With the combination of killing existing dandelions and preventing new ones from forming with Corn Gluten Meal you will have a fresh looking lawn by next summer! It’s all part of the lawn care process.
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Landscaping Plants for Privacy
By: Danielle McVicar
Landscaping is a great way to beautify the exterior of your home but it has many other purposes than just that. Landscaping can seclude your yard and create privacy for you and your family. There are many different landscaping tools that you can employ to achieve the solitude you desire.
Manmade elements such as walls and fences are an easy way to create privacy, but they can be relatively expensive and don’t look very natural. There are many different varieties of landscaping plants that you can use to achieve the same results which also enhance your overall landscaping. The most common natural elements used for privacy landscaping include trees, hedges, vines and earthen berms.
Trees are a good way to create privacy in your yard. When planted in a row they can create a natural wall. Trees require little maintenance and provide shade and other benefits to your landscaping. Evergreen trees are especially good for privacy landscaping because they never lose their leaves and branch out from the base of the tree.
Hedges are very commonly used in privacy landscaping. Hedges come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are perfect for creating barriers. They grow relatively fast compared to trees and are extremely versatile, fitting easily into both large and small areas. The downside to using hedges is that they must be pruned if you want them to remain a certain shape and deciduous varieties will lose their leaves in the winter, making them ineffective for creating privacy.
Vines are another type of vegetation used in privacy landscaping. They will need some kind of structure to grow or climb on, such as a lattice or trellis, but will completely cover it and retain a natural appearance. Some vines grow tremendously fast, such as the Virginia Creeper, and are good to use if you want a fast solution to your privacy problem. Other vines grow more slowly, but offer a variety of textures and colors.
An earthen berm, or mound, is also an option for privacy landscaping. Vegetation is planted on top of the berm to create another version of a natural wall. Because the earth is raised, you are able to use shorter plants on top of the berm that by themselves might not be suitable for creating privacy. It is best to use drought resistant plants when creating a berm, however, because water tends to roll down the slope of the hill. While effective, it is not the most visually attractive form of landscaping.
Although these are the most common plants used for privacy landscaping, there are still many others that can provide similar results. Be creative with your landscaping choices, and if you find it too difficult to do yourself, you can always consult a professional.
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Light Up Your Landscape with Exterior Lighting
By: Danielle McVicar
An easy and effective to way to enhance your landscaping is to incorporate some exterior lighting. Your home’s exterior should look just as interesting and beautiful at night as it does during the day; different types of exterior lighting can help you achieve that goal.
Exterior lighting is not only eye-catching, but it can make your yard safer and more enjoyable after the sun goes down. Lining walkways or driveways with pathway lights is a common use of exterior lighting, making your yard both safer and pleasing to the eye. Motion sensor lights are also good for nighttime safety. These kind of exterior lights are often placed in shadowy places around the home and light up when any motion is detected.
Simple exterior lighting can make the outdoors accessible both day and night. If you have a patio or porch, installing basic pole or surface-mounted lights can make these areas usable at night as well as during the day. Also, submersible lights can light up pools and hot tubs, making nighttime swimming and soaking an option.
Accent lighting is another form that exterior lighting can take. If you have a point of interest in your yard, such as a lawn ornament or tree, don’t let it go to waste at night because it can’t be seen! Using an accent light to draw attention to focal points of your landscape is a great way to beautify your yard at night. Floodlights are perfect for accent lighting; they light up large areas and don’t distract from the object that they are illuminating. Also, if they are placed strategically, floodlights can create unique effects, such as interesting shadows projected onto walls.
The most decorative type of exterior lighting comes in the form of specialty lighting. Specialty lighting ranges from lanterns to colorful holiday lights. Use specialty lighting sparingly; too much of this exterior lighting can result in a tacky, juvenile appearance.
Exterior lighting is relatively inexpensive and is a great way to boost your exterior décor. Most forms of lighting are easy to install yourself, but if you have any trouble you can always consult a professional landscaper for help.
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Home Renovations: Improve Your Landscaping with Easy-to-Grow Flowers
By: Danielle McVicar
Adding flowers to you landscaping is a great way to incorporate beauty and color to your yard, but it is not necessarily easy. Many flowers are very delicate and require much daily care and upkeep to keep them alive and looking their best. Many people don’t have the time to tend to fragile flowers everyday nor do they know how. Luckily there are still options available for those who desire the beauty flowers bring to their landscaping but lack a green thumb.
The following list contains flowers that are relatively easy to grow and maintain but are still beautiful and will enhance your landscaping.
- Marigolds are one of the easiest flowers in the world to grow. They are hardy and require little attention or care. They come in a range of colors from cream to red and everything in between. An interesting characteristic of marigolds is that they are a natural insect repellant. Many gardeners plant marigolds with other plants because the marigolds will help keep insects away. Marigolds are annual flowers, which mean they must be replanted every year, but they are very easy to grow from seeds.
- Zinnias are hardy annual flowers that are very easy to grow from seeds. They usually reseed themselves every year so you save yourself time and work having to replant them. They come in a variety of eye-catching colors such as orange, pink, red, white and yellow.
- Black-Eyed Susans are daisies that come in varying shades of yellow and gold. They prefer sunlight and can tolerate long periods of time in dry soil without water. They reseed themselves every year and once they have taken root and are fully established they can be left alone and require minimal care.
- Bachelor Buttons/ Cornflowers are also annual flowers that are very simple to grow from seeds. They too will reseed themselves every year if the flowers are given a chance to drop seeds. Bachelor button flowers can be pink or purple but the vast majorities are an intense shade of blue.
- Daylilies can thrive in many different growing conditions and climates. They come in a wide array of colors: practically every color except blue. An interesting characteristic of the daylily is that each flower only lasts for one day before it dies, but each plant produces many flowers. Daylilies are perennial flowers, which mean that they will live through multiple growing seasons, and can be planted as seeds or transferred from pots as seedlings.
- Sunflowers are very distinguishable among other flowers and come in a variety of colors and sizes. The most common colors for the sunflower are yellow or gold. Sunflowers are annual flowers and are very easy to grow from seeds.
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Different Types of Exterior Pools
By: Danielle McVicar
Incorporating a pool into your landscaping will add to its attractiveness as well as its recreation and also raise the overall market value of your home. There are many different types of pools to consider, all of them providing different benefits. When trying to choose what kind of pool would be best suited for your home’s exterior, you must determine what the primary purpose of the pool will be, what size you would like, and what your budget is. These factors will greatly aid you in determining which type of pool is the best for you.
The three basic categories that most pools fall into include above-ground, in-ground and specialty pools.
Above-ground pools are the most inexpensive type of pool and the easiest to assemble. This type of pool is manufactured in pieces and can be put together and disassembled with relative ease; usually without professional assistance. Above-ground pools are not permanent structures, which mean that they can be taken down. Taking your pool with you if you move is an option with an above-ground pool. This kind of pool is available in an array of shapes and sizes; no matter what size your yard is it is likely that it can accommodate an above-ground pool of some kind. The drawbacks of above-ground pools, however, are that they don’t blend well with landscaping, aren’t very customizable, and don’t have as long a lifespan as other types of pools.
In-ground pools are typically more expensive than above-ground pools, but they last much longer. They are customizable and can be made into any shape you want to flatter your yard. In-ground pools integrate well into landscaping and have several accessories, such as diving boards, slides and lighting that can be incorporated into their design. The drawback to in-ground pools aside from the cost is that they take much longer to build and require professional installation.
Specialty pools can be either above or in ground, but are designed differently than regular pools, usually for a specific purpose. Lap pools are long and narrow and are used for exercise and fitness. Spools, or swim spas, are a hybrid between a spa and a pool. They are heated and have water jets but are also large enough to swim in, making them a suitable pool or hot tub. Freeform pools are decorative in design, and are made to look natural pond or oasis.
Choosing a type of pool can be difficult but it is a choice that you will be glad you made for years to come.
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Most Commonly Used Fences in Exterior Landscaping
By: Danielle McVicar
Fences serve multiple purposes for your yard, including security, privacy, safety and landscape enrichment. There are many different styles and types of fences to choose from, all providing different benefits and appeal. No matter what you’re searching for, there is a fence that will meet your landscaping needs.
The most common types of fences consist of wire, vinyl, wood/ natural material, stone/ brick, wrought metal and living.
Wire fences are strong, durable fences that also allow visibility. Chain link and wire mesh are examples of wire fences, and are available in different materials that provide different degrees of strength. This type of fence is great for creating barriers but not very good at retaining privacy. Wire fences are perfect for homeowners with children or pets because they provide an enclosed area that is still able to be seen clearly.
Vinyl fences are great for privacy and are relatively inexpensive. Vinyl, as well as composite fencing, is made from recycled plastic and proves to be a very durable and sturdy fence. This type of fence is extremely low maintenance and never needs to be replaced or maintained to prevent decay like a wooden fence would.
Wooden fences are very popular, especially in picket form. They range in price, depending on the type and quality of wood used. Wooden fences can look very beautiful, but they must be painted or stained regularly to prevent rot and insects. A natural alternative to wood that is becoming more popular is bamboo. Bamboo provides similar benefits to wood, however, bamboo is considered to be more eco-friendly because it is a renewable resource.
Stacked stone or brick fences add much beauty and personality to your landscaping, as well as very strong and protective barriers. This type of fence tends to be on the expensive side, but depends greatly on what kind of stone you use. Stone or brick fences are very resilient and can withstand harsh weather conditions with ease. They are perfect for security due to their strong nature but their presence doesn’t take away from the landscaping.
Wrought metal is perhaps the most versatile of all the fence types. It can be made into many different, intricate designs for decorative purposes, or can consist of simple, strong bars for security. Wrought metal, most often iron, can be very expensive, however.
Living fences are not true fences; they are landscaping plants arranged to create a living barrier. This kind of “fence” is useful for creating privacy and enhancing your landscape, but won’t improve your security at all. Certain plants are better suited for creating visual barriers, such as hedges, bamboo, vines and certain trees.
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Lawn Ornaments: Beyond the Pink Flamingos and Gnomes
By: Kelly Goldthorpe
Lawn ornaments typically get an unfair reputation because of a few outrageous items which people commonly associate them with. However, there are a variety of lawn ornaments that can add class and style to your yard. They don’t have to be brightly colored or the focus or your lawn; subtle accent pieces can highlight landscaping and draw glances from those passing by. With a little investment, lawn ornaments will enhance your curb appeal.
Animal Friendly:
You can’t go wrong with ornaments that are associated with animals. They are practical yet beautiful pieces for your yard. Bird baths are a great addition because they can come in a variety of styles and colors. Include bird feeders and bird houses, which also can be found to fit any design, and you’ll be able to experience the joys of bird watching from your own backyard. Easily create your own turtle pond by using the top of a bird bath, filling it with water, and placing it on the ground. As for that unsightly dog house, repaint it (even use scraps of siding to create a professional look), and add a nametag to it. Pick colors that either match or compliment the exterior colors of your home so it looks like an extension.
Pieces that POP!
Fountains are classic pieces which create a natural feel in your yard. They can be easy to install, and for small-to-medium sized ones you can do it in a weekend. Whether it is just a trickle-down rock formation or a full-scale fountain and pond these are beautiful additions. For bigger ponds consider adding some fish or turtles if you have time to care for them. They make great conversation pieces.
Statues give you the opportunity to express your values or things that you enjoy. You can find a statue that will capture whatever message you are trying to create, whether it is a religious icon, frolicking animals, or children holding hands. Place your statue where it fits in with the landscaping. You don’t want to just stick it in the middle of your yard because that often leaves it looking awkward and out of place. Sidewalk corners work great or by a stepping stone path.
A gazing ball is a reflective ball which is said to ward off demons and evil spirits. Now we use them as decorative pieces which can add color and shape to your garden. Again, there are extensive and diverse selections of these which can be found at almost any garden shop.
Sundials and wind chimes are small, unique pieces for your entryway or garden. They are fun but still classy.
To keep these decorations looking classy you want to limit the number you use. Overdoing it will create a cluttered look and will draw away from their individual elegance.
Focus on the Flowers:
If you have an award-worthy garden, take advantage of that and make your flowers shine. You can grow vine-flowers along your fence or on a lattice. While these might not be lawn ornaments in the typical sense, they still create a great look for your home. For a more traditional style use ivy, which is fantastic against a red brick home. Use big planters to create a large floral piece for driveway corners or other areas in your lawn. Create your own wreath with seasonal flowers for your door or siding.
Holiday Ideas:
Nothing makes a house feel more like a home than holiday decorations. Of course the winter holidays area a great chance to dress up the exterior of your home, but you can change your decorations seasonally to keep that festive atmosphere. Dawning a flag for the 4th of July and Memorial Day adds a patriotic edge. For Halloween a Jack-o-Lantern is crucial. Spook it up with cobwebs and tombstones. Think about holidays or other seasonal changes and decorate accordingly. Just make sure you stay up to date. Having Easter eggs in August might not be the look you’re going for.
Outlandish:
Of course sometimes those ridiculous lawn ornaments are fun and spark conversation. If you’re eccentric and want to convey your silly side there is no reason not to add a pink flamingo peaking out of the bushes or a lawn gnome greeting you near the driveway. Other unconventional pieces include lawn jockeys, geese (with outfits for the seasons), and tree faces (which are designed to look like natural warps in the wood).
Whether you want to enhance your exterior home décor or just add some lighthearted fun, lawn ornaments are a versatile addition to your home.
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Edible Landscaping
By: Danielle McVicar
Many people think of landscaping and gardening as two separate things. Landscaping plants are decorative and pretty while vegetables and other edible plants are grown in their own, separate plot of land, usually out of sight. The concept of edible landscaping combines these two seemingly non-related ideas, mixing vegetables and other edible flora into your home’s exterior décor.
There are many good reasons to add edible plants to your landscaping. Flowers aren’t the only type of vegetation that are colorful and pretty; many types of vegetables offer an array of interesting colors and textures that will enhance your yard. Bell peppers, for example, come in a variety of colors including green, red and yellow.
Adding an herb garden will not only visually improve your landscaping, but will add to the atmosphere by giving off pleasant aromas. Herbs can also be harvested and used in many different forms of cooking, which can save you some money as they can be quite expensive. Rosemary, parsley and thyme are popular plants grown in an herb garden, but adding aromatic herbs such as chamomile and mint can also be rewarding.
Incorporating edible plants into your landscaping can also save you a lot of money! Growing your own vegetables and herbs can greatly cut back on your grocery list, especially with the price of food climbing. If you’ve always wanted a garden but have limited yard space, why not mix edible plants into your landscaping? Vegetables such as lettuce, potatoes and onions are consumed almost daily and can be included relatively easily into any landscape.
Some gardeners actually prefer to grow flowers and vegetables together due to the benefits certain plants offer. For example, planting marigolds alongside vegetables will repel certain insects, while vegetables such as onions can discourage aphid attacks on prized flowers like roses.
If you think your landscaping needs a makeover, try adding some edible plants. Experiment mixing your favorite vegetables with your favorite flowers; you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the results!
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Landscaping Plants for Arid Climates
By: Danielle McVicar
If you live in a dry, desert-like region you may fear that your landscaping options are limited to sand, a few cacti and an occasional tumbleweed. You’d be pleasantly surprised to discover, however, that there are many different kinds of plants that thrive beautifully in arid climates, without sending your water bill through the roof. By using desert vegetation for your landscaping you will enhance your home’s exterior décor and preserve both water and time.
The most recognized and stereotypical plant used for dry climate landscaping is without a doubt the cactus. Cacti are native plants to desert regions and can survive in extremely harsh condition, including very little water and low nutrient soil. There are a huge variety of cacti, but perhaps the most popular is the Saguaro cactus, which produces white flowers in the spring and can reach heights of up to 20 feet. Prickly Pears are another type of cactus commonly used in landscaping. They are much smaller than the Saguaro cactus, and they produce beautiful flowers along with bright, red fruit. Hedgehog cacti are another popular landscaping choice due to their small stature and attractive magenta flowers.
Trees might not be a suitable landscaping choice for extremely dry regions, but there are a few types that can live with relatively low amounts of water. Mesquite trees require minimal amounts of water and grow relatively fast, providing some shade for your yard. The Desert Willow is another kind of tree native to arid climates, characterized by grey-green leaves and lavender flowers that bloom in the summer. Another popular type of drought-resistant tree is the yucca. Yuccas come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, ranging from small and shrub-like to large trees.
Succulents are another option for desert landscaping. Succulents are water retaining plants that have adapted to living specifically in arid climates. Aloe Vera is perhaps the most common type of succulent; it flourishes in full sunlight and produces eye-catching, spiky yellow flowers. Other types of succulents used in landscaping include agaves, Dawe’s Aloe and Candelilla.
Flowers are often the most difficult plant to grow in an arid climate due to their fragile nature, but there are some types of flowers that require small amounts of water. The Desert Marigold is a flower native to dry regions, and provides your landscape with bright, yellow flowers throughout the year. The Rock Pestemon is another flower that thrives in arid climates and offers beautiful, red blooms in the spring and summer. Rosemary is another option, although it is categorized as an herb more times than a flower, and its tiny, blue flowers can enhance your exterior décor as well as the pungent aroma it exudes.
Research which plants are indigenous to your area for some more landscaping ideas, and as always feel free to consult a professional landscaper if you need extra help.
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Landscaping Plants for Cold Climates
By: Danielle McVicar
Cold, northern winters usually mean death and dormancy for all plant life, and can be a real downer for those trying to enhance their landscaping with vegetation. Colder climates limit the plant options available, but don’t be discouraged! There are a variety of plants that can withstand a harsh, cold winter and still complement any exterior décor.
The largest and most prominent kinds of landscaping plants are trees, and there are many different types that will tolerate cold weather. Evergreens are the most practical choice due to their hardy nature and resilience to the cold. Their needle-like leaves remain on their branches year round providing your landscape with color and texture throughout the seasons. Firs are a popular type of evergreen used in cold climates due to their tall, cone-like shape. Broadleaf evergreens are also an elegant tree used for cold climate landscaping.
Although evergreens are probably the best-suited tree for cold climates, you do not have to landscape with them exclusively. Although other varieties of trees will lose their foliage during winter, they will survive it and can still add beauty to your exterior décor. If you choose trees that have interesting growth patterns or bark characteristics, they will still enhance your landscaping even without their leaves. Both beech and oak trees grow to magnificent heights, and their branches form interesting and pleasing patterns that can be viewed perfectly in the winter. The white bark of the birch tree adds a touch of elegance and color to a winter landscape, as does the red bark of the Coral Bark Maple.
In addition to trees, there are some perennial flowers that will withstand a harsh winter to bloom every spring. Perennials live for two or more years, blooming in the spring and summer then dying and returning the following year from the same root. The Oriental Poppy is a perennial that is perfect for colder climates, its cup-shaped flowers coming in an array of colors. Yarrow is another type of cold tolerant perennial and is relatively low maintenance. The Yarrow comes in many colors including yellow, red and white. Daylilies are another option for cold weather landscaping, also coming in a wide range of colors. Daylilies bloom and die every day, producing many flowers during their growing season.
Do some research before you choose plants for your landscaping; certain plants may or not thrive in your specific region. Find out which plants are native to your area and if you have any trouble you can always consult a professional landscaper.
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Landscaping with Exotic Plants: Adding a Japanese Garden
By: Danielle McVicar
Does your exterior décor need an exciting makeover? If you want to add an exotic touch to your landscaping, consider incorporating a Japanese garden. Surprisingly, many of the exotic plants used in a Japanese garden are hardy enough to be planted outdoors and thrive in most areas of the country. An Oriental garden will not only add beauty to your landscaping, it will provide you with a peaceful and tranquil place where you can go to meditate and relax.
Depending on how large you want your garden to be, you might want to consider incorporating trees. There are a variety of Oriental trees that would blend perfectly with your garden, and perhaps one of the most popular types is the Japanese Flowering Cherry. This tree is characterized by its bright pink and white blossoms that bloom in the spring. Other popular types of Oriental trees include the Ginkgo Biloba, Honeylocust and Japanese Maple.
Using fruit-bearing plants is another option for your Japanese garden. Not only are these kinds of plants attractive to the eye, they produce delicious fruit that can be harvested and enjoyed. The Hardy Asian Pear is a small tree that can give your landscape a very exotic look. It produces beautiful, white flowers in the spring and tasty, yellow fruit in the fall. Teaberry, or Wintergreen, is another fruit-bearing plant that can be included into your Japanese garden. Teaberry is characterized by its dark, shiny green leaves and the deep red berries that it produces. If you really want something unusual, try adding a Japanese Banana plant to your landscape. This is the hardiest of all banana plants and can survive in surprisingly harsh climates.
The eye-catching aspect of you Oriental garden will of course be its exotic flowers. Although there are many, many beautiful flowers to choose from, there are a few that are an absolute must-have. One of these necessities is the Lotus. Lotuses come in a wide variety of sizes and colors and are known for their striking beauty and fragrance. Orchids are another flower choice for an Oriental garden. Many different kinds of orchids are available; they are believed to be the second largest family of flowering plants in the world. Orchids come in an array of colors, ranging from white to red. Another essential flower for your Japanese garden is Primrose, or Yellow Lilac. This flowering shrub can reach heights of eight to ten feet and produces beautifully fragrant flowers that range in color from yellow to creamy white. It requires minimal maintenance and is a perfect addition to your landscape.
A Japanese garden full of exotic plants can be a focal point to any landscaping. Even if you don’t want to create a full garden you can still incorporate some of these beautiful Oriental plants into your exterior décor to add an extraordinary touch.
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Use Roses to Beautify Your Exterior Décor
By: Danielle McVicar
Have you always wanted to incorporate roses into your landscape but feared the time and effort it would take to maintain them? Many people believe the misconception that roses are difficult to grow, needy plants that are prone to insects and disease, but that is not true. Roses are one of the most popular and beautiful flowers that you could add to your exterior décor; don’t let a false truth stop you from experimenting with these gorgeous flowers!
The simplest way to insure your roses will grow with both beauty and ease is to make sure you take the time to plant them properly. When planting your roses, keep in mind the size that they will eventually grow to be. Don’t plant them too close together; roses need room to breathe! Roses that are planted too near each other are susceptible to powdery mildew, a disease that can be common among roses.
Roses do best in soil that allows for drainage. If your landscape can’t provide your roses with the appropriate amount of drainage they need, you can remedy the problem by adding peat moss to the area. Also, while it is not necessary, adding a small amount of fertilizer to the soil could be beneficial to your roses. You can also use rose food if you like, but make sure you aren’t using too much. A handful of rose food about every six weeks is more than enough to keep your roses healthy and happy.
Most roses require approximately six hours of sunlight per day to flourish. If possible, position your roses so that they receive their six hours of sunlight in the morning rather than in the evening. This allows the roses to dry earlier in the day and helps prevent them from mildewing.
Roses have a reputation for being fragile, high maintenance flowers, but the truth is they require very minimal upkeep. An occasional pruning and watering is about all that it takes to keep your roses looking their best! Two deep waterings every week is optimal for most roses, but you may have to adjust your watering habits a little depending on the rainfall your area receives.
Make sure that you research the different kinds of roses available and find out which grow best in your area. Choosing a rose that is native your region could save you even more time and work. The beauty and fragrance that roses will bring to your landscaping will surely outweigh the minimal upkeep that these flowers need.
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Different Types of Roses for Landscaping
By: Danielle McVicar
Incorporating roses into your home’s exterior décor is a great way to add a touch of elegance and beauty. Understanding the difference between different kinds of roses will help you determine which type will enhance your landscaping the best.
Roses can generally be grouped within five categories, which include hybrid teas, floribundas, miniatures, shrubs and climbing. Each kind of rose has unique characteristics and advantages that should be taken into consideration when choosing a specific type for landscaping purposes.
Hybrid teas are the classic, spiral-centered roses that everyone pictures a rose to look like. They grow as upright bushes, producing one high-centered flower per stem. This type of rose is known to produce a beautiful fragrance that will enhance your entire landscape. Hybrid teas come in a wide array of colors and are constantly being improved and redesigned by rose breeders. This rose requires the most maintenance out of all the types and is usually grown by professional or knowledgeable gardeners.
Floribundas, or clustered flower roses, grow on bushes like the hybrid teas, but instead produce many, many more flowers. While the hybrid teas only produce one bloom per stem, floribundas produce several. Some modern varieties of this plant can grow up to 50 flowers at a time. Floribundas also come in a variety of colors and shapes; they can high-centered like the hybrid teas or ruffled and less formal. Floribundas are considered to be excellent landscaping flowers due to their long flowering season and their relative ease to upkeep.
Miniature roses are exactly what their name implies; they are simply roses that are reduced to smaller proportions. Many people believe that their small size makes them a good choice for a house plant, but miniature roses will grow in almost any landscape with minimal care. Like other types of roses, they are available in almost every color imaginable.
Shrub roses, like floribundas, are considered to work extremely well for landscaping. They are the hardiest of all the rose types and most varieties of shrub roses can withstand cold winters. They range in color and size and tend to have a spreading habit, which is nice for ground cover or other landscaping purposes.
Climbing roses are unique in the fact that they grow in a vine-like manner. They can grow to be up to 12 feet tall or wide and come in a wide range of colors and sizes. They are usually repeat bloomers and are a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.
After carefully considering your options you will be able to determine which rose will work the best for your exterior décor, but don’t feel like you’re limited to only one kind! Try combining different types of roses to create a truly beautiful and exciting landscape.
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Best Plants for Indoor Landscaping
By: Danielle McVicar
Have you always dreamed of having a stunning garden but live in an apartment or just don’t have the yard space? Never fear; there are many, many gorgeous plants that you can grow in your home just as beautifully!
Most indoor plants are between six and 20 inches high and are relatively easy to upkeep. Some plants require more attention than others, so keep this in mind when choosing plants for your home. The following list includes some of the most popular house plants and information about them.
- Chinese Evergreen- This plant is very popular due to its ability to grow in shady areas out of the sunlight. Its name is deceiving; it is called an evergreen but doesn’t resemble evergreen trees at all. It comes in many different varieties, but the most common is a combination of dark green and silvery green leaves.
- Peace Lily- This is another plant that does well in low light. It grows to be between two and three feet high and blooms into beautiful, white flowers. Another benefit that this plant provides is that it helps detoxify the air in your house. The downside, however, is that the leaves of the Peace Lily are fairly toxic, so if you have small children or pets this may not be the best plant for your home.
- Braided Ficus Tree- One of the most popular indoor plants, the Braided Ficus Tree is characterized by leathery, dark green leaves and its beautiful, intertwined stems. This plant adapts very well to living indoors and is fairly easy to take care of.
- Devils Ivy- This small climbing plant is common in homes and offices due to its manageable size and minimal upkeep. This plant is especially suited for hanging baskets or as table top pots. They can come in a variety of colors, but are most commonly green mottled with a touch of yellow. They must be pruned every once in a while to keep them from climbing, or they can be trained to climb up a wall or trellis if desired.
- Orchid- These flowers add an exotic touch to your home. Orchids are one of the largest plant groups in the world; there are approximately 30,000 known species. They can be a more difficult than other house plants to grow, but the beauty they bring to your décor is well worth the trouble.
- Snake Plant- This is a very unique and interesting-looking plant that grows well indoors. The Snake Plant has long, stiff leaves that grow from the base of the plant, and can reach a height of up to three feet. Its leaves are dark green and usually have stripes of silver or yellow, but other variations exist. It is native to desert areas so it requires little water, which is good for those who forget to water their plants from time to time.
- Desert Cactus- The cactus is a good plant for someone who tends to neglect their plants frequently. Cacti only need sunlight and very little water to live since they are indigenous desert plants. There are many different varieties of cacti available, and many of them bloom into beautiful flowers in the spring and summer.
- Poinsettia- This flowering plant is one of the most popular house plants in the world. It comes in pink and white in addition to the Christmas red, and is a beautiful addition to any home. Poinsettias aren’t long term plants, however, and although they can be kept alive, they typically won’t bloom as well as they did in their first year.
