garden may 2013

Beacon CommunicationsA SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO

The Perks of PruningHow pruning benefits your trees and shrubs

GoingGreenGardening tips for beginners

Warding Off WeedsPreventing weed growtharound your property

MAY 2013

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IT’SRI GROWN

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THE AQUIDNECK GROWERS MARKETPhone: 401-848-0099909 East Main Road (Rte 138)Middletown, RI. Saturdays: June 8 - Nov. 29:00 am - 1:00 pm WIC & SFMNP

MEMORIAL BLVD.(BETWEEN EDGAR & CHAPEL ST.)Corner Pelham & Bellevue Street NewportWednesdays: June 5 - October 302:00 pm- 6:00 pm WIC & SFMNP

THE BLOCK ISLAND FARMERS MARKETSPhone: 401-466-3000Manisses Corner “under the apple trees”Wednesdays: June - September9:30 am - 11:00 amNegus Park Saturday: June - October9:00 am - Noon

GODDARD PARK FARMERS MARKETPhone:222-2781Goddard State Park, WarwickFridays: May 3 - October 259:00 am - 1:00 pm WIC & SFMNP

SCITUATE FARMERS MARKETPhone:[email protected] Village( at Art Festival Grounds)Saturday: May 4 - October 129:00 am - Noon WIC & SFMNP

CHARLESTOWN FARMERS MARKET4417 Old Post Road Friday: June 14 -Sept 139:00 am - Noon SFMNP ACCEPTED

PASTORE COMPLEX FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-222-2781Pastore Complex (Dept. of Labor & Training)Fridays: July 26 - September 2710:00 am- 2:00 pm WIC & SFMNP

CAPITOL HILL FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-222-2781BEHIND HEALTH DEPARTMENTThursdays: July 25 - September 2711.00 am - 2:00 pm WIC & SFMNP

BLACKSTONE RIVER STATE PARK FARMERS MARKETPhone:401-222-2781295 North in LincolnTuesdays: July 23- October 292:00 pm - 6:00 pm WIC & SFMNP

THE DOWNCITY FARMERS MARKETSPhone: 401-312-4250 www.farmfreshri.org Providence: Parade Street Market (Next to Cranston Street Armory) Thursdays: May 30 - October 31 4:00 pm - 7:00 pm Pawtucket: Slater Park (Tennis Courts Armistice BLVD) Sunday: July 7 - October 27 Noon - 3:00 pm Woonsocket: Thundermist Health Center 450 Clinton Street Tuesdays: July 2 -October 22 3:03 pm - 6:30 pm

THE BROWN UNIVERSITY FARMERS MRKTPhone: 401312-4250 www.farmfreshri.orgProvidence: Wriston Quad (Thayer & George)Monday: Sept.2- oct. 28 11:00 am -2:00 pm

SHIP STREET FARMERS MARKETShip Street and Richmond Street ProvidenceApril - Oct. Tuesday 11:30 am - 2 pm

DOWNTOWN PROVIDENCE MARKETPhone: 401-312-4250 www.farmfreshri.orgProvidence: 2 Kennedy PlazaBank of America Skating CenterFridays: June 7-October 25 11:00 am - 2:00 pm

BROAD STREET FARMERS MARKETPhone:401-312-4250 www.farmfreshri.org807 Broad StreetSaturday: July 6 - October 26 8:30 am -12:00pm WIC& SFMNP ACCEPTED ALL LOCATIONS

HOPE STREET FARMERS [email protected] Street at Blackstone BLVD. Lippitt ParkSaturdays: May 18 - Oct. 26 9:00 am - 1:00 pm

SOUTH KINGSTOWN FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-295-0912URI East Farm 2095 Kingstown RoadSaturday: May 4 - October 26 8:30 am - Noon

MARINA PARK, WAKEFIELDSouth County Hospital exit off route 1Tuesday: May 7 - October 292:00 pm - 6:00 pm WIC & SFMNP ACCEPTED

JOHNSTON FARMERS MARKETat MEMORIAL PARK401-222-2781Mondays: July 29 -Oct. 28, 2 pm- 6 pmWIV & SFMNP ACCEPTED

EAST GREENWICH FARMER’S MARKETPhone: (401) 886-9889 (401) 575–7083Rector St. Between Church St. and Spring St.Mondays: June -October3 pm - 7 pm SFMNP ACCEPTED

FISHERMEN’S MEMORIAL PARK FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-222-2781Fishermen’s Memorial State Park Narragansett, RISundays: May 5 - October 279:00 am - 1:00 pm WIC & SFMNP ACCEPTED

COLT PARK FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-222-2781Colt State Park, Bristol RIFridays: May 3 - October 252:00 pm - 6:00 pm WIC & SFMNP

C0ASTAL GROWERS MARKETPhone: 401- 295-1030Saturdays May 18 - October 26Casey Farm, 2325 Boston Neck Road, (Rt 1A) Saunderstown9:00 am - NoonWIC & SFMNP ACCEPTED

WHOLE FOODS-UNIVERSITY HEIGHTSFARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-621-5990Mondays: June to Nov.601 North Main St. Providence3 pm - Dusk [email protected] ACCEPTED

FRUIT HILL FMRS. MRKT. AT RIC401-228-8261 [email protected] Aug -Oct.Fruit Hill Ave. Old Alumni House at RIC4 pm -6 :30 pm SFMNP ACCEPTED

ISLAND MARKET AT MIDDLETOWN GRANGEPhone: 401-835-7699499 East Main Road Middletown, RIThursdays: June -October2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

WESTBAY FARM STANDKent Hospital Cafeteria Warwick455 Tollgate RoadJune 21 through October 11Friday Noon - 6:00 pmSFMNP ACCEPTED

BARRINGTON FARMERS MARKETBARRINGTON CONG. CHURCH461 County Road June - OctoberSaturday 9 am-Noon

NEUTACONKANUT FARMERS MARKETNEUTACONKANUT PARKPlainfi eld St. ProvidenceJuly - October Monday: 3 pm - 6 pm

NORTHWEST FARMERS MARKETPETERSEN FARM451 Putnum Pike GlocesterMay - Oct. Sun. 10 am - 2 pm

WESTERLY / AVONDALE FARMERS MARKETHEART OF AVONDALE93 Watch Hill Road WesterlyJune - Sept. Friday 3 pm-5:30pm

GOVERNOR NOTTE PARK FARMERS MARKETNORTH PROVIDENCEPhone: 401-232-0900 ext. 226Fridays June 7 through October 183:30 pm - 6:30 pm SFMNP ACCEPTED

BURRILLVILLE FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-258-5778 Stillwater Mill CenterTinkham Lane, HarrisvilleSaturdays: May 11 - October 59 am - Noon SFMNP ACCEPTED

WESTERLY / PAWCATUCK FARMERS MARKETPhone; 401-315-261085 Main Street / Behind BillboardThursdays: June 13-October 1710;00 am to 2:00 pmWIC & SFMNP ACCEPTED

SAKONNET GROWERS MARKETPhone: 624-7490Tiverton Four Corners, TivertonSaturdays: July 6- September 289 am - 1 pm SFMNP ACCEPTED

RICHMOND FARMERS’ MARKETPhone: 401-294-6306 [email protected] Town Hall(5 Richmond Town House Road)Saturdays: May-Oct.9:00 am-12:30 pm SFMNP ACCEPTED

WEST WARWICK FARMERS MARKETPhone: 487-4848186 Providence St. (THUNDERMIST HEALTH)Hours: 3:00 pm - 6.00 pmThursdays: July - Oct.

WHOLE FOODS Phone: 401-621-5990151 Sockanosset Cross Road, CranstonTuesdays: June to October 3:00 pm to [email protected] SFMNP ACCEPTED

HAINES MEMORIAL STATE PARK FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-222-2781Route 103 East Providence, RIWednesdays: May 1 - Oct. 30 2 pm - 6 pmWIC & SFMNP ACCEPTED

PAWTUXET VILLAGE FARMERS MARKETCRANSTON Phone: 461-2618Rhodes on the Pawtuxet Parking LotRhodes Place CranstonSaturdays: May 11--Nov. 23 9 am - NoonWIC & SFMNP ACCEPTED

PIER 9 FARMERS MARKETPhone: 222-2781 Pier 9 Newport RIFridays: July 26 - October 252:00 pm - 6:00 pm SFMNP ACCEPTED

RUMFORD FARMERS MARKETPhone: 401-265-050620 Newman Ave. Rumford RITuesdays: Mid May - October 3 pm-6:30 pm

CROSS MILLS FARMERS MARKET419 Old Post Road Charlestown May-OctoberFri. 4 pm - 7 pm Sat. 9am-1 pm Sun 10 am-2 pm

EXETER FARMERS MARKET EXETER LIBRARY773 Ten Rod Road Jul-Oct. Weds: 3:30 pm-6:30 pm

WEEKAPAUG FARMERS MARKETWEKAPAUG FIRE DISTRICT 4 Wawaloam Ave.June- Aug. Friday 8:30 am-11:30 am

3 • Lawn & Garden Tim

e • May 2013

11 Preventing weed growth a priority for homeowners

4Gardening tips for beginners

14Lanscape fabrics used to prevent weed growth

10How to prevent soil erosion

7Shopping for a fire pit

9Eco-conscious ways to tend to your lawn

9Benefits to hiring a landscaping service

8Caring for a freshly sodded lawn

8Factors to consider before installing artificial grass

20How to repair bald spots in your lawn

21Can pools and lawns cohabitate peacefully?

18Managing difficult yard situations

19Addressing moss growth on your property

12Pros and cons of automatic irrigation systems

13Watering 101 –Help your lawn thrive through the dog days of summer

22Tackle flying pests in the yard

17Outdoor sheds and storage

22How to edge a lawn

16Deer-proofing a garden

6Cost-effective fencing options

14The case for choosing native plants

14 The benefits of pruning trees and shrubs

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Gardening is a rewarding hobby that many enthusiasts credit with helping them to peacefully escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Though gardening can be both relaxing and rewarding, it’s not as easy as it may seem, and the more time and effort a person devotes to his or her garden the more likely it is to be successful.Gardening can be a little daunting for beginners who have little or no experience planting flowers or vegetables. But gardening need not be so intimidating, especially for those beginners who adhere to the following tips aimed at helping novice gardeners start their gardens off on the right foot.Determine what you should plant. Where you live will go a long way toward determining what you should plant. While you can plant anything you can get your hands on, the United States Department of Agriculture as well as Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada have determined specific plant hardiness zones that indicate which plants are most likely to thrive in given locations. Maps of these zones can be found at www.usda.gov and www.agr.gc.ca. By adhering to the maps, gardeners can

significantly increase their chances of growing successful gardens. When in doubt about what to plant, consult a local gardening center or seek advice from a professional landscaper.Think location when beginning your garden. Beginners with large yards have the luxury of choosing the right location on their properties to start planting. When choosing a spot, consider how much sunlight a location gets on a daily basis and the spot’s proximity to a water supply. If planting flowers, try to avoid planting in areas with heavy foot traffic so the flowers are less likely to be stomped. If you’re planting flowers to accent walkways, then consider erecting a barrier around the flower bed to safeguard the flowers from foot traffic.Get started before you plant. Preparing the soil a few weeks before you start planting can help the plants thrive down the road. Add some organic material, such as compost or fertilizer, to the soil roughly three weeks before planting. This helps the soil retain water and nutrients, which will help your garden thrive.Time your planting. When you plant is sometimes as important as what you plant. Some climates allow for year-round planting, but many do not.

When buying seeds, the packaging might suggest what time of year to plant the seeds. Adhere to these suggestions or your garden might not grow much at all. In addition, keep in mind that many seedlings need significant light throughout the day in order to grow, so choose a time of year with ample daylight.Don’t forget to mulch. Mulch can be as aesthetically appealing as it is effective. Mulch retains soil, helping roots to grow stronger, while deterring bugs and preventing weed growth. And many gardeners find mulch adds visual appeal their garden, and does so in a very inexpensive way.

Clean your tools. Beginners rarely recognize the importance of cleaning gardening tools before putting them away. At the end of each gardening session, clean your tools thoroughly, as soil left on your garden tools can play host to potentially harmful microbes that might kill your plants. Gardening can be a labor-intensive yet gratifying hobby. By sticking to a few simple rules, beginners can develop a thriving garden to reward all of that hard work.

Gardening tipsfor beginners

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Clean your tools. Beginners rarely recognize the importance of cleaning gardening tools before putting them away. At the end of each gardening session, clean your tools thoroughly, as soil left on your garden tools can play host to potentially harmful microbes that might kill your plants. Gardening can be a labor-intensive yet gratifying hobby. By sticking to a few simple rules, beginners can develop a thriving garden to reward all of that hard work.

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Fencing serves many purposes. Some homeowners erect a fence for privacy, while others do so to contain pets and children. Because fencing can be expen-sive, some homeowners look for ways to cut costs, which can be relatively easy, especially for those homeowners willing to consider various materials when erecting their fence.Traditional fences are available in materi-als ranging from wood to vinyl to metal. Homeowners have other options at their disposal if they prefer a more natural fence. Different shrubs, trees or grasses can be planted to create a barrier between properties or within the property.When choosing a fencing material, consid-er that even a less expensive material may prove more expensive in the long run if it needs significant maintenance or has to be replaced in just a few years. Therefore, the most cost-effective fencing material may not necessarily be the least expensive one at the store. Here are some materials homeowners can consid-er.Found material: Repurposed wood or metal can be crafted into a rustic, one-of-a-kind fence. Materials can be found that are no cost, requiring only the cost of labor. Should you build it yourself, this can be next to nothing. Sometimes existing fences on another property can be disas-sembled and re-built on your own property for little to no cost as well.Chainlink/chainwire: Chainlink fencing is one of the most economical types of boundary fencing. The fencing comes in a variety of diamond sizes and is fixed to galvanized pipes spaced across the perimeter of the property. Although it is some of the least expensive fencing, it does not offer much privacy on its own.

But if you are looking at fencing simply as a barrier, chainlink could be the way to go.Picket fencing: A wooden picket fence is another inexpensive fencing material. The pickets can be purchased in various heights, and this fence may be used as garden border fencing or to mark a prop-erty line between homes. Spacing the pickets widely apart may cut down on the number that need to be purchased, further keeping the cost down.Bamboo: Bamboo is a rapidly growing grass that produces a hard wood-like material that is used in many building applications. Bamboo wood can be used to build a fence, but the natural plant also can be planted to form a living fence for privacy.Stockade fencing: A stockade fence is one of the more basic wood fencing options. Wooden slats are placed along-side one another to form an effective and affordable privacy fence. Stockade fencing can be stained or painted to preserve it. Many home improvement retailers sell panels of stockade fencing so that you can make fence installation a do-it-your-self project.Vinyl fencing: Although vinyl fencing is one of the more expensive fencing materi-als at the outset (it costs about twice the price of a wood fence), it does pay for itself rather quickly thanks to minimal maintenance. Unlike some other materi-als, vinyl will not rot or discolor. You also won’t have to purchase stain, paint and expensive cleaners for a vinyl fence. That means once you make the investment, you will have years upon years of mainte-nance-free enjoyment.There are many different fencing materials that can coordinate with a variety of bud-gets.


e • May 2013

Shopping for a fire pitPeople have sat around an open fire outdoors for centuries. Not only does fire provide warmth and light, but also it offers a relaxing setting for conversation and socialization.The outdoor fire pit has transformed the concept of backyard entertaining. Homeowners understand how a fire pit can add value to a home and make their yard an inviting place to be on a summer evening or a chilly autumn night.Outdoor fire pits are a relatively new creation that continue to grow in popularity. Once available strictly through specialty retailers, fire pits can now be found on the shelves of many home improvement and big box stores as well as online.Fire pits can add a lot to a home’s exterior entertaining area. Some fire pit styles and materials will last longer than others. Homeowners should assess their needs and the space available before choosing a fire pit for their home.First, homeowners must decide if they want a permanent or portable fire pit. If you are ready to make an enduring change to your yard and landscape, then a permanent fire pit is the way to go. These can be made of stone or brick and are often very durable. Permanent fire pits can be incorporated into landscape designs to create a professional patio look. They’re also some of the safer types of fire pits because they cannot be knocked over and the bricks or retaining wall construction provide a barrier around the fire.Portable fire pits are freestanding units that can be moved around the yard on a whim. They also can be loaded into the car and taken to a neighbor’s house or even to the beach. Portable fire pits are less expensive than permanent models, and some homeowners prefer a trial run with a portable pit before deciding to install a permanent structure.Portable fire pits are made of metal and usually coated with a fireproof paint. Over time, exposure to the elements can cause the metal to rust or weaken, something homeowners should consider prior to purchase.Homeowners also must consider a fuel source. Wood is a common fuel source for fire pits. Wood can be inexpensive, especially when gathered from around the yard. However, a wood-burning fire will constantly have to be fed with new branches. If you want to have a roaring fire but don’t want to maintain it, then a gas-fueled fire pit is better. Natural gas fire pits can run off of a portable propane tank (think barbecue tank) or be directly connected to a home’s natural gas supply.

Now you can decide on the style. Gas fire pits will give you a greater number of design options, but there are still plenty of choices with wood fire pits. From bowl-shaped pits to rectangular-shaped pits to barrel-style pits to chimineas, there are designs to fit most preferences and size constraints.Once you have chosen a fire pit, safety should prevail. Here are some tips to consider. •Keepthefirepitawayfromthehomeandobjectsthatcanburn.Maintaina safe distance from the fire pit at all times. •Thebestplacetohavethefirepitisonhardstone,cementortile.Portable fire pits can be placed on patio stones in the lawn. •Useascreentokeepembersandsparksfromescapingduringuse. •Keepchildrenagooddistanceawayfromthefirepitandalways supervise when the pit is in use. •Makesurethefireiscompletelyextinguishedbeforegoinginforthenight. •Donotuseanyaccelerantstomakethefirebiggerorlightfaster. •Buyavinylcovertoprotectthefirepitfromtheelementswhennotinuse.

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* Manufacturer’s mail-in rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 4/3/13–6/14/13 from participating dealers in the U.S. only. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product models set forth above in the quantities set forth above. If you purchase less than the specified quantity, you will not be entitled to a rebate. All rebates will be issued in the form of a prepaid reward card. Ask participating dealer for details and rebate form. This rebate offer may not be combined with any other Hunter Douglas offer or promotion. © 2013 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas.

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Caring for a freshly sodded lawnSod, sometimes called turf, can quickly turn a barren landscape into a rich, thick carpet of green. Homeowners hoping to revive their lawns commonly turn to sod as the quickest means to do just that. However, once the sod has been laid down, few homeowners may know how to keep it looking its best.Sod is real grass that is grown on special farms. It is generally grown locally to avoid long transport times that could dry out the product. Sod is typically sold in squares or rolls of grass that come with the roots and soil already attached. There may be some sort of thin backing material on the sod to keep the grass blades together.Many homeowners turn to sod when growing lawn from seed becomes problematic or too time-consuming. Seeds can be blown around in the wind or be eaten by birds and other animals before they have a chance to germinate.

Sodding a lawn is a major invest-ment, costing as much as $1 per two-foot square. Depending on the size of your lawn, this can be a costly job even before adding the cost of addi-tional supplies, such as soil, fertilizer and tilling equipment. Many home-owners who install sod want to ensure their investment lasts. Here are the main ways to care for and protect sod until it is fully established. •Oncethesodhasbeenlaiddown,

the lawn should be thoroughly soaked with water. Most experts recommend soaking it to a depth of 6 inches.

•Itisimportanttoestablishawater-ing schedule to keep the sod moist. Water the sod to a depth of one inch every other day for the first three weeks to enable the roots to securely establish them-selves in the soil.

•Waterthesodeveryotherdayunless the weather has been very warm. After four weeks you can

generally go up to five days with-out watering as long as you transi-tion slowly. The sod will change colors if it is not getting enough water. Never let the lawn turn yel-low, otherwise you may have to cut out dead spots and re-sod.

•Waittwotofourweeksbeforemowingthesod.Keepthelawnheight to around two inches to ensure that it won’t scald in the sun.

•Aftertwomonthsofestablishedsod growth, aerate the sod to keep the soil from being too com-pact and to enable oxygen and

nutrients to get into the soil. •Keepchildrenandpetsoffofthe

sod while it is establishing itself. •Fertilizethelawnevery50to60

days, beginning in March and ending in October.

•Inspectthesodforpests,whichmay include insects or problems like fungi or weeds. Treat accord-ingly with products designed to remove pests.

Using sod to establish a lush lawn is a fast, albeit more expensive option to sowing seeds. After a few weeks the lawn will be thick and secure.

Sod can create an instant lawn, but it still requires certain maintenance measures to get it firmly established.

Factors to consider before installing artificial grass

Lawn-care enthusiasts may bristle at the notion of installing artificial grass on their property, but many homeowners are turning to artificial grass for their homes. Men and women without a preference one way or the other might want to consider a variety of factors before installing artificial grass on their property or sticking with natural grass.Cost: The cost of artificial turf is perhaps the biggest factor for many homeowners. The initial

cost of artificial turf is considerably more than the cost of seed to grow or refurbish a natural lawn. And while artificial turf, once installed, will not require the services of a professional landscaper, saving homeowners money during the warmer months, homeowners might still want to hire a professional landscaper to tend to their trees, shrubs, gardens and other plants around the property. In addition, homeowners should consider if the presence of artificial turf may increase or lower their property value when they hope to resell the home. Appearance: Artificial grass won’t wilt or burn under the hot summer sun, giving it a distinct advantage over natural grass, especially in regions where drought and/or extreme heat are par for the course. But homeowners who prefer the look, feel and smell of natural grass might find that artificial grass’ flawless appearance is not worth sacrificing the sensory benefits of natural grass.Maintenance: Once installed, artificial turf is essentially maintenance-free. Homeowners

won’t need to fertilize or mow the grass, spend time watering it or inspect it for signs of deterioration or disease. Homeowners who do not enjoy spending weekend afternoons tending to their lawns might find artificial turf is their ideal surface.Usage: When the dog days of summer arrive, artificialturfcangetveryhot.Kidsandpetswholove to play in the yard might find artificial turf is very uncomfortable when the mercury rises, while natural grass does not heat up as much, making it a safer option for families who spend ample time playing in the yard.Environmental impact: Artificial turf and natural grass can both have adverse effects on the environment. Artificial turf is often manufactured with potentially harmful chemicals while equally harmful pesticides are commonly used to maintain natural grass. Neither is ideal for the environment, but there are chemical-free ways to maintain natural grass, likely making natural grass a more attractive option for homeowners hoping to be as eco-friendly as possible.


e • May 2013

SpotColor

Eco-conscious ways to tend to your lawn

Benefits to hiring a landscaping service

A professional lawn service can save homeowners time, money and mistakes.

The desire to have a pristine, well-manicured landscape leads many homeowners to toil outdoors for hours every weekend. Hiring a professional landscaper can free up homeowners’ time and help them ensure their yards are cared for properly.One of the benefits of hiring a landscaper is the time savings. Landscapers typically have commercial-grade equipment that can dramatically reduce the time it takes to mow and perform other maintenance tasks around your property. Furthermore, some services have multiple employees working concurrently, enabling them to tackle several projects at the same time and complete them in a fraction of the time it would take a homeowner working on his or her own.Landscapers familiar with botany and landscape design understand how to properly care for plants and trees on your property, while novice green thumbers may be unaware about when to prune trees and shrubs, at what height to cut the lawn and which plants will thrive in particular locations. Such do-it-yourself maintenance may even cost more money than leaving it to a professional.Hiring a professional landscaper is, in many instances, more economical. For a certain weekly or monthly fee, homeowners receive the benefit of

professional knowledge and execution. Also, homeowners will not have the expense of purchasing the various tools and equipment necessary for lawn and garden maintenance, tools and equipment that include lawnmowers, string weeders, edgers, fertilizer, grass seed, leaf blowers, and shovels.Another benefit is the lawn will continue to be mowed whether a homeowner is home or not. During the spring and summer vacation season, it’s easy for homeowners to overlook their lawn and garden in favor of recreation and leisure activities. Without proper watering and maintenance, lawns and gardens can brown or overgrowth can occur. But hiring a landscaping service allows homeowners to rest assured that their yards will be maintained whether they’re home or not.Hiring a local landscaping service will not only benefit homeowners, but also it will benefit the local economy. Residents can feel comfortable knowing their lawn service will be available for calls when needed and will be familiar with the community. Also, local contractors may go the extra mile to earn your business recommendation.Hiring a landscaping service can be advantageous to homeowners who want to free up time and still enjoy a well-maintained landscape.

Many homeowners are constantly on the lookout for ways to make their homes more environmentally friendly. Such a pursuit is both noble because it helps the environment and practical because it often saves money.While there are many eco-friendly improvements homeowners make inside their homes, it’s important to note that there are several ways for men and women to be more environmentally conscious outside of their homes as well. Lawn care can be done in a way that’s conscious of the environment, and the results can be just as appealing as if the lawn were tended to without regard for the planet. The following are just a few of the many ways homeowners can adopt more eco-friendly

practices when tending to their lawns.Be conscientious when watering. Overwatering a lawn is pretty common, especially during the dog days of summer, when homeowners try to overcompensate for hot days with excessive watering. The growth of moss on sidewalks or the driveway is a telltale sign that you’re watering too much, as is a standing pool of water on the grass. Homeowners who find it difficult to determine when their lawns have gotten enough water can purchase an intelligent irrigation control system that adapts your watering to a lawn’s needs as well as the weather.

Turn back the clock on your tools. Before gas mowers became the standard, man-powered push mowers were used to cut the grass. Such mowers still exist, and they require no fuel, making them a more eco-friendly option than their gas-powered counterparts. Along those same lines, leaf blowers are a far less friendly way to rake leaves in the fall or clean the yard after a long winter. While there’s no denying their effectiveness, leaf blowers need gas to operate, while a rake just requires some elbow grease and a little extra time out in the yard.Stay local. If you need to plant new grass or you’re beginning a garden, then stick with local plants, flowers and grasses rather than more exotic options that are not native to your area. Plants, flowers and grasses that aren’t native to your region will require more maintenance and often more watering. That added maintenance might prove to be a headache, and that excessive watering will not be beneficial to the environment. Native plants, flowers and grasses have already adapted to your climate, and they can be provide just as much aesthetic appeal as more exotic alternatives.Avoid pesticides whenever possible. Many homeowners treat their lawns with pesticides, which can make a lawn look beautiful. But that beauty typically comes at a steep price, impacting local wildlife and perhaps even the local water supply. When pesticides are applied to a lawn, the chemicals within may run off into your local water supply. If you can’t avoid pesticides entirely, then do your best to minimize how often you use them.Don’t let rain water go to waste. Rain barrels are a great way to make good use of rain. Rain barrels can be placed beneath a gutter’s downspout, where they will collect water that can be reused throughout your property to water the lawn and garden. Rain barrels can be relatively expensive, but over time they will pay for themselves as you save money on your water bill.Lawn care can be conducted in a way that benefits the environment as well as your bottom line.

A push mower that does not rely on gas to work is one way homeowners can take a more eco-friendly approach to lawn care.

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How to prevent soilerosion

Homeowners who spend time tending to their landscape are increasingly looking eco-friendly ways to maintain their lawns and gardens. Homeowners who once relied on potentially harm-ful pesticides to craft a lush lawn now prefer ways that don’t leave such a significant carbon footprint.Preventing soil erosion is one way to incorporate conservation into lawn and garden care. Conservation is one of many environmental practices aimed at preserving the planet’s natu-

ral resources, which include soil. Preventing soil erosion is easy and can be accomplished in a number of ways.Don’t overwater. Some may assume that keeping soil as damp as possible keeps it healthy. However, overwatering the soil can cause runoff that washes the soil away. In addi-tion, overwatering the soil can degrade it and contribute to erosion. Instead of overwater-ing, keep the soil moist but don’t overdo it. If you’re having trouble keeping soil moist, con-sider laying down some mulch, which helps retain moisture and deliver nutrients to the soil that keep it healthy.

Plant trees and shrubs. Trees and shrubs are friends to soil, providing shelter while their roots keep the soil in place and prevent it from easily blowing away on a windy day. It also helps soil from washing away when warm weather arrives and the landscape must be watered on a daily basis.

Create runoff barriers. Runoff barriers are edges that can be made of brick, stone or other materials that help reduce run-off. Many homeowners install runoff barriers along sidewalks and driveways to ensure the

soil does not spill out onto the pavement, but these also help the soil as much as they help to keep walkways and other areas free of soil and looking tidy.

Consider leaving some grass around the garden. Tillage is the process of preparing land to grow crops. While many home-owners don’t view their week-end gardening as growing crops, similar principles apply whether you’re growing crops on a farm or just a few vegeta-bles in the backyard. One such principle is conservation tillage, which means leaving a portion of vegetation in the ground instead of stripping everything away before planting. For home gardeners, consider leaving a small amount of grass around the garden to keep the soil within the garden’s boundaries. It’s a principle similar to install-ing runoff barriers, and it can be just as effective at prevent-ing soil erosion.

Installing runoff barriers made of brick, stone or other materials around plants and shrubs is one way to reduce soil erosion and runoff.

THE SYNTHETIC LAWNS…

for your dog kennel or putting greenAsk Ken about replacement lawns

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CA Lic. #183 Still Growing in Rhode Island Reg. #33107

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Celebrating38 YearsCOMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTIONCOMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION

KDQ Landscaping Inc.


e • May 2013

Preventing weed growtha priority for homeownersWeeds in a lawn or garden can be an unsightly and potentially unhealthy nuisance. No gardener enjoys seeing weeds spring up throughout his or her carefully planted garden, as such uninvited guests rob a well-tended garden of its aesthetic appeal. In addi-tion, weeds can steal valuable water and nutrients from plants, prohibiting their growth as a result.

Homeowners who understand how harmful weeds can be can prevent them in a variety of ways. Where weed growth is insignificant, it might

be possible to simply pull them out of the ground before they can do any substantial damage. In areas of heavy weed growth, however, a more con-centrated effort must be made to pre-vent further weed growth once the weeds have been removed. The fol-lowing are a few ways homeowners can prevent weeds from growing throughout their lawns.

Be proactive. Preventing weed growth is a proactive job, so home-owners want to be proactive to keep weeds from infesting their property.

Proper and routine lawn maintenance might be all it takes. Add quality top-soil to your lawn or gar-den to produce a healthier surface that makes it more difficult for weeds to grow. As the season pro-gresses, continue to maintain your lawn by mowing and watering.Aerate the soil at the onset of the season. Aerating your lawn at the dawn of the mowing season helps break up soil that grew compacted over the winter. Once aerated, the soil can disperse nutrients, oxygen and water more effectively, allowing healthier roots to grow and reducing the risk of weed growth as a result.Fertilize the lawn. Fertilizer helps grass grow in thick and dense, which leaves little to no room for the growth of weeds. While fertilizer does not necessarily guarantee that weeds won’t grow, it does go a long way toward helping a lawn grow in healthy, and a healthy lawn is often a weed’s worst enemy. Some fertilizers on the market are a combination of fertilizer and weed preventer, and such prod-ucts might be ideal for homeowners who are especially concerned about weed growth. The lifespan of weed preventers varies, so keep in mind that you might need to reapply a weed preventer in a few months to keep getting the same results. Fertilizing is

typically done twice a year, once in the spring and again in the fall.Lay down landscape fabric. Landscape fabric is another weed pre-vention alternative that can prevent weed growth for several years. Before laying down landscape fabric, which is perhaps most commonly used in flow-er beds, remove all weeds and other vegetation you do not wish to grow. You will likely need to cut the fabric to the area you want it to cover and cut an opening for plants and flowers. The fabric is then typically covered with mulch, which keeps the fabric in place. Landscape fabric is effective because it blocks the sun from reaching any area that it’s covering while still allow-ing air, water and nutrients to pene-trate and reach the soil. Weeds need sun to grow, so landscape fabric can be highly effective at preventing weed growth. Weeds are an unsightly nuisance that homeowners would prefer to do with-out. Preventing weed growth is rela-tively easy, and, in many cases, your efforts can bear fruit through the entire season.

Removing Unsightly WeedsWhen removing weeds, it’s best to remove the weeds with their roots. Smaller weeds with shallow roots can typically be removed with a gentle pull and the roots will come right out with the weed. Larger weeds with deeper roots can be a little tougher to remove, and they might damage surrounding plants if you pull too hard. In such instances, dig around the stem with a small hoe to loosen the soil and then firmly pull the weed out of the ground. If that does not work, dig a little deeper and try again.When there are simply too many weeds to pull out of the ground, a garden hoe is effective for shallow-rooted weeds. Where deep-rooted weeds are present, a garden hoe is less effective because it does not usually reach the roots. A winged weeder, though more time-consum-ing than a hoe, goes deeper into the soil to pull the roots.Chemical weed-killers are another option, though they are not very eco-friendly and chemical products must be sprayed on the entire weed to kill it completely.

THE SYNTHETIC LAWNS…

for your dog kennel or putting greenAsk Ken about replacement lawns

Natural Organic Repellent Spray

(Ticks, Fleas, Mosquitoes) Lasts 40 days!!!

CA Lic. #183 Still Growing in Rhode Island Reg. #33107

Get Your Yard Ready for the Party! Call 732-3825

Celebrating38 YearsCOMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTIONCOMMERCIAL AND RESIDENTIAL MAINTENANCE AND CONSTRUCTION

KDQ Landscaping Inc.

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Water is essential to keeping a lawn or garden in good health. The trouble with watering is that it can be time-consuming, especially if your idea of watering is standing outside with the hose. But thanks to irrigation systems, watering has become a lot less hands-on.An irrigation sprinkler or drip sys-tem takes much of the work out of watering a landscape. Some can also be fitted to deliver fertilizer and weed-prevention products to a lawn. But before any digging takes place, homeowners might want to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of irrigation systems.

ADVANTAGESOne of the most obvious advantag-es is the time savings afforded by an automatic sprinkler or drip irriga-tion system. Once installed, many systems can be set to a timer to water at specific time intervals and on certain days of the week. This means there’s no need to worry about forgetting to water the lawn and coming back from vacation to find crisp, yellow grass.Another advantage is that irrigation systems, particularly the drip type, can be positioned so that water is more effectively targeted where it is needed. Nozzles can be adjusted and underground drip tubes will deliver water right to the roots, rath-er than spraying walkways and driveways.Another advantage is that automat-ic irrigation systems are generally hidden from view, which means there are no unsightly hoses stretched across the lawn and no more tripping hazards. Sprinkler heads pop up to spray and then retract when the job is done. Underground drip systems do their work out of view. For families with young children and pets who share outdoor spaces, automatic systems may be a safer option.

DISADVANTAGESThe primary disadvantage associat-ed with a sprinkler system is the expense. These systems can be quite costly depending on the size of the property. Furthermore, por-tions of the lawn will have to be dug up to install pipework and attach it to the plumbing system of the home. This can equate to days or weeks without use of the yard. Afterwards, the landscaping will have to be repaired.It is best to install an irrigation sys-tem prior to the installation of sod or extensive landscaping because some of it will have to be torn up. Homeowners who already have pristine yards may be turned off by this reality.Even the most efficient sprinkler systems can have their pitfalls. Wind can wreak havoc on sprin-klers, directing water in the wrong direction. Underground pests may damage water-delivery systems, resulting in water pooling or broken parts. The repairs to fix an irrigation system can be much more costly than replacing a damaged garden hose.Irrigation systems have their advan-tages and disadvantages, and homeowners should weigh their options before installing a new system.

Pros and consof automatic irrigation systems

Some homeowners choose to install automatic irrigationsystems rather than using a hose andportable sprinkler.

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Summer can take its toll on just about everyone. Even the most ardent fan of summer eventually grows weary of a heat wave, which can make something as simple as walking down the street seem exhausting.While human beings have their ways of surviving summer heat, such survival can be more difficult for your lawn and garden. Certain grasses and plants thrive in hot weather. But when the dog days of summer arrive, even those grasses and plants built to withstand the summer sun can suffer. That’s why watering takes on such importance in the summertime, when grasses and plants need water to avoid drying out and possibly even dying. The following are a few basic watering techniques to help homeowners keep their lawns going strong through the next summer swoon.Water when it’s coolest. Watering when the temperatures are their lowest might seem counterintuitive. After all, homeowners might think their grass and gardens need water most when the temperature is at its highest. But watering when the temperature is cooler decreases evaporation, meaning your lawn will get the water it needs and won’t lose any to steamy conditions that cause evaporation. This is especially important when the amount of water you can use is limited by a drought restriction. You’ll want to make sure the water you can use is actually going to the lawn and not evaporating as you’re watering. Watering in the early morning or in the evening, when the sun is not as strong and the temperatures are generally at their coolest, also reduces the likelihood that your grass will burn. That’s because water attracts the sun, and a lawn that’s

wet in the middle of a hot day might attract too much sun and cause the lawn to burn.Recognize that not all plants are the same. How much water a plant needs and how frequently it needs to be watered largely depends on how deep its roots are. A plant with shallow roots won’t need to be watered for long periods of time, but it will need to be watered frequently, whereas a deep-rooted plant like a tree or a shrub will need to be watered for long periods of time but not as frequently. Research the plants around your property to determine the depths of their root systems and water accordingly.Lean on mulch to retain moisture. Mulch is often considered an aesthetically appealing addition to a landscape, but it serves a practical purpose as well. Mulch retains moisture during the hot summer months, reducing the need to water — a valuable benefit during a drought restriction. Mulch also makes it difficult for weeds to grow, which can keep homeowners from spending hot summer afternoons pulling weeds out of their gardens and flower beds.Strategically locate sprinklers. Sprinklers should be located so no water is ending up on the driveway or sidewalks around your property. Watering the concrete or asphalt is wasteful, and that’s water that could be going toward your plants. When watering by hand, be sure all of the water is finding its way to plants and not on any walkways.Successfully watering a lawn and garden during the dog days of summer can greatly reduce the risk of ending summer with a lawn full of bald spots and a garden filled with wilted plants.

Effective watering can help a lawn and garden survive the dog days of summer.

Watering 101 Help your lawn thrive through the dog days of summer

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The case for choosing native plants The benefits of

pruning trees and shrubsPruning trees and shrubs is necessary to ensure they maintain their health and vigor. Trees and shrubs should be inspected annually to determine if they need to be pruned. Mature trees typically do not need to be pruned as frequently as young trees, which need pruning to establish branch structure. Trees and shrubs that go years without pruning can become overgrown and weak. In addition to promoting tree and shrub health, pruning pays a host of other dividends.Pruning removes dead or diseased branches. Pruning helps a tree or shrub maintain its shape and vigor by removing broken, dead or diseased branches that can be unsightly and make it more difficult for the tree or shrub to stay healthy. When broken, dead or diseased branches are removed, trees or shrubs look healthier and add aesthetic appeal to a property.Pruning trees and shrubs promotes growth of other plants. Trees and shrubs that go years without being pruned become overgrown, making it difficult for plants underneath or adjacent to them to grow in healthy. For example, grass beneath an overgrown tree might not get adequate sunlight, which it needs to establish strong roots so it can grow in lush and healthy. Pruning allows plants beneath the tree and shrub and even those next to the tree and shrub to grow in nicely.Pruning can sometimes bring plants back to life. Shrubs that have gone years without being pruned can sometimes still be salvaged. In some instances, pruning such shrubs can restore natural and healthy growth.Pruning reduces risk of accidents. Overgrown trees can interfere with power lines, increasing the risk of accidents and power outages. In addition, overgrown trees tend to have larger, weaker limbs, which can prove hazardous and cause property damage during storms. Pruning overgrown trees reduces the risk of such accidents.Pruning can save money. Over time, overgrown trees might require professional assistance in order to be removed or pruned from a property. Homeowners who prune their trees as needed can save themselves the cost of a potentially pricey tree service.Pruning adds curb appeal. A property littered with overgrown trees and shrubs hurts a home’s curb appeal, giving prospective buyers the impression that homeowners might have been careless with regard to maintaining the whole house and not just the lawn. But trees and shrubs that are pruned and well-maintained can add to a home’s curb appeal, something that goes a long way toward impressing prospective buyers.

One of the best ways to improve a home’s resale value is to address the landscape. Increasing a property’s curb appeal can be done in many ways, but a well-pruned lawn and garden gives buyers the impression that the sellers truly took the time to maintain the home and the surrounding property.Unfortunately, many homeowners choose exotic plants when addressing their landscape. Though these plants can be appealing and make a property stand out, if the plants are not native to the region, they could be doing more harm than good. Instead of upgrading your property with exotic plants from a far away land, consider the following benefits of choosing native plants before addressing your landscape.Native plants benefit local wildlife. The native plants and the native wildlife spent years and years evolving together, with each doing their part to ensure the other’s survival. But as development continued, local wildlife suffered because of lost food sources. The local wildlife needs local, native plants to survive, so choosing these plants instead of exotic plants can help ensure the survival of wildlife that helps keep the ecosystem in check.Native plants require less work. Some prospective home buyers might find a yard filled with exotic plants to be visually stunning, but they might also see a good deal of work to maintain those plants. Many exotic plants require significant work on a homeowner’s part to survive, while native plants have already adapted to the local climate and will require much less care. This is often attractive to current and future homeowners alike.

Native plants might be a better investment.

A native plant has evolved over the years to survive in its given area. Local insect populations and fungal infections might be able to destroy an exotic plant, but a native plant has grown resistant to such problems and likely has the ability to fight such infestations or infections on its own. An exotic plant might require costly pesticides and considerable attention from homeowners to survive such problems.Though homeowners might find exotic plants help their home stand out from their neighbors’, it’s important that homeowners recognize the environmental benefits of choosing local plants before making any decisions.

Did you know?Landscape fabrics are used to prevent weed growth while still allowing air, oxygen and water to flow to and from the soil. Landscape fabrics are a chemical-free way to prevent weed growth, endearing them to eco-friendly homeowners. Landscape fabrics, once laid, also are a far less labor-intensive method to prevent weed growth, as they can be effective for several years, during which homeowners can expect to perform little or no maintenance. In addition, many homeowners prefer landscape fabrics because they can help the soil effectively maintain moisture during dry periods, when gardens might otherwise be highly susceptible to drought. Once put down, landscape fabric can be covered with mulch to add aesthetic appeal.


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CONFREDA GREENHOUSES & FARMS2150 Scituate Ave, Hope (Western Cranston), RI

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Deer proofing a gardenCreating a beautiful and bountiful garden is a popular pastime for people all across the country. It is important to keep in mind that aesthetically appealing plants may be appetizing to area wildlife, including deer. Those who do not want their gardens to turn into all-you-can-eat buffets for deer, rabbits and other wild animals can take a more proactive approach to gardening.Deer are opportunists who will no doubt see your garden as a salad bar ripe with all of their favorite foods. As housing developments continue to encroach on the natural habitats of deer and other animals, these animals are becoming more visible. Deer may not be able to forage for food effectively in their smaller, natural surroundings, or they may become accustomed to the “easy pickings” they find in neighborhood yards. Either way, you may encounter a deer in or around your area.Keepingdeeratbayinvolvessomeworkandmaintenanceonthepartofahomeowner. There are safe and humane methods to repelling deer, or at least blocking access to the plants worth protecting. Here are the main ways to deer-proof a garden.

FENCE ITFences are one way to deter deer from entering a yard and dining onyourgarden.Keepinmindthatdeer can jump fences that are quite tall, but they have to be especially motivated to jump an eight-foot-tall fence. Still, they tend to be weary about scaling a fence when they cannot see what is on the other side. Therefore, if you are fencing out deer, choose a fence that camouflages the garden well and completely encloses the area to be protected. If you do not want the fence to be solid, consider putting stakes or thorny plants within the garden so that the deer will hesitate to jump into the garden.

SCARE THEMDeer are naturally skittish around people, but over time they can become quite complacent around human beings. Once a deer decides that something will not present a threat, the deer can adapt

to its presence. Motion-activated devices may not work, nor the presence of pets. Predator urine is typically an effective way at keeping deer at bay. Bottled coyote urine can be quite effective, although human urine may work as well. Reapplying the product weekly around the plants is a good idea.

REPEL THE DEERThere are many organic or chemically-based products on the market that deer may find offensive to the taste or smell. Hot pepper, sulfur and eggs or even the use of soapy water have been successful in certain instances. The use of blood meal or even human hair around the garden may repel the deer and keep them on a different foraging path. However, remember that any deer that is very hungry may ignore unpleasant tastes or smells for a quick bite.

When planting annuals, select among: •Alyssum •Begonias •Calendula •Celosia •Dianthus •Foxglove •Geraniums •Parsley •Poppy •Snapdragons

In terms of perennials, plant these items once, and deer could stay away: •Ageratum •Anemone •Astibe •Beardediris •Catmint

•Honeysuckle •Lantana •Monkshood •Rockrose •Rosemary •Soapwort •Wisteria

Plant these herbs alongside flowers for even more protection: •Chives •Eucalyptus •Garlic •Mint •Thyme •Wintergreen

Gardeners who use a combination of methods to keep deer out of their yards and gardens may have a higher success rate at deterring these animals.

CHANGE PLANTSIf other food sources are available, there are some species of plants and trees that deer will avoid. Filling your garden with these plants can help you maintain a beautiful, albeit untasty, environment for deer.


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Did you know?When people think of outdoor storage, they generally envision garden sheds to house their lawn and garden equipment and tools. However, if space doesn’t allow for a large shed, there is no need to fret because there are other storage possibilities. Consider a garden ottoman or bench, for example. This structure can be built from wood and then painted or covered in padded fabric. Store small items inside the ottoman, which can also serve as a table or additional seating. In addition to an ottoman, a garden tool that can keep shovels and rakes organized. Homeowners with a deck can construct lidded deck boxes to store patio cushions or any other outdoor equipment. Utilizing the space under the deck is another idea. Cover the perimeter of the bottom of the deck with lattice and install one piece on a hinge to serve as a door. Store equipment underneath and out of sight. It also will be protected from the elements.

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IRRIGATION ISSUESImproper drainage or low-lying areas in a yard may contribute to a muddy mess. Soil that is inhospitable for grass also may end up causing muddy patches because the grass simply does not grow. In some cases, remedying a muddy yard is easy and inexpensive. Some homeowners find that tilling the soil and amending it with a fiber mulch helps to absorb extra water and make the conditions better for lawn seeds to sprout. This also helps to aerate compacted soil that can hinder grass growth. Adding soil fill also may help to level low-lying areas that can be puddling.Some homeowners find that they need to do a little more work and spend some more money to fix irrigation issues. Installing a draining system or having the property sloped to draw water away can sometimes be done by a homeowner but is often best left to a professional. You may need to dig trenches, and the property may need to be regraded to make a difference.

SANDY SOILGrass and other plants may not grow well with sandy or clay soil. Again, amending the soil is one way to remedy the problem. Although it will take some work at the outset, amending the soil can improve conditions and reduce how much maintenance the lawn needs. Digging down several inches and

adding nutrient-rich filler soil will help create conditions that are better for growing. Those who are interested in planting vegetables could opt for raised garden beds above the challenging soil.

SHADESometimes a yard is problematic because of the amount of sunshine it receives. Too much sunshine can scald certain grasses, while inadequate sunshine may result in bare patches where grass won’t grow. If cost is no object, removing or planting trees to establish better growing conditions could be an option. However, today there are many grass blends that are tailored toward specific sunlight scenarios. Homeowners may find that low-light blends will grow better in shady areas.For those who are finding no luck with grass blends, it may just be necessary to think creatively. Plant shade-loving plants, such as ferns or ground cover, where the grass won’t take. Design the landscape so it looks intentional. Flagstone and slate placed in certain areas also may mask temperamental growing areas.There are different options for managing various situations in the yard that can make growing lawn or other plants challenging. If projects are difficult, it could be smart to call in a professional.

Many homeowners aim for a picture perfect lawn complete with rolling acres of soft, green grass. But Mother Nature may have other things in mind, providing homeowners with less-than-stellar growing conditions for their lawns, plants and other foliage. Frustration can mount when a yard is muddy, is especially shady or has soil that doesn’t seem to grow a thing. In such instances, homeowners may have to go the extra mile to get the yard they desire.

Shady situations may impede grass growth in a yard.

Managing difficult yard situations


e • May 2013Lawn care enthusiasts put lots of time and effort into their lawns and take great pride when that work pays off with a luscious green lawn. But no lawn is immune to problems, and even the most well-maintained prop-erty can develop issues that compro-mise the lawn’s health and aesthetic appeal. Moss is one potential lawn issue that many green-thumbers would prefer to avoid. While moss is not always harmful, it can be unsightly and lawn care enthusiasts may spend a signifi-cant amount of money attempting to control it. Controlling moss can be

costly, but there are some ways to control moss that will not cost home-owners much money at all. Before addressing moss in your yard, it helps to understand why moss grows and then look at the various ways to control it once it does.

WHAT CAUSES MOSS GROWTH?Moss can grow in a yard for a variety of reasons, but the most common cause of moss growth is insufficient sunlight to support the grass. Sunlight might be blocked by shade from nearby trees or shrubs or even shad-ows from your home.

Soil conditions may also be responsi-ble for moss growth. Soil that is very acidic can promote moss growth, and the moss that grows because of acid-ic soil will appear very healthy. Compacted soil can also promote moss growth because such soil has low oxygen levels that make it hard for the turf to establish strong roots, and moss will take advantage of those weaker roots.Soil with low fertility levels is also amenable to moss, as it does not produce a healthy turf. Unhealthy turf makes it easy for plants with a low demand for nutrients, including moss, to establish themselves.

HOW CAN I SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF MOSS GROWTH?

Moss that grows because of exces-sive shade can often be addressed with some minor efforts. If the shade is a result of trees or bushes, prune them regularly so sunlight can reach the turf and promote strong turf and

roots. If the shade is caused by your house, then you might consider removing the existing turf and then seeding the area with a turf mix that caters to shaded areas.If moss is growing because of com-pacted soil, aerate the turf and soil to break it up and allow the oxygen to reach the soil. When that occurs, the turf will begin to establish stronger roots and make it more difficult for moss to grow.When soil is tested and it is deter-mined that the soil is acidic, then the soil must be adjusted. Lime might be applied to rebalance the soil, but homeowners should consult a lawn care professional for advice as to the best way to rebalance their soil.Lawn-care enthusiasts often bristle at the sight of moss on their luscious lawns. But moss is often an easily remedied issue that homeowners can address in a variety of ways.

Addressing moss growth on your property

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How to repair unsightly bald spots in your lawn

Lawn care aficionados know how a single bald spot can make an oth-erwise luscious lawn look worn down and poorly maintained. A bald spot can stick out like a sore thumb, while several bald spots can com-promise a home’s curb appeal.Treating bald spots typically depends on what is causing the bald spot. Bugs, dryness, pet waste and damage from mowers are some of the more common causes of bald spots. The following is a breakdown of these different causes and how best to address each situation so you can restore your lawn to its natural beauty.

DRYNESSA lawn can go dry because of drought in the sum-mertime or during the winter months when there is not much rain or snowfall. Homeowners cannot change the weather, but they can help their lawn avoid becoming the burned or yellowed turf that often results after extended periods of dryness. Fertilizing the lawn during the spring and summer is a good first step. This helps the lawn grow in healthy and thick. Once you have fertilized, don’t cut the grass too short. When grass is cut too short, the soil struggles to retain moisture, which can eventually lead to bald spots if weather condi-tions are dry. During especially dry periods in the summer, watering might be necessary. You won’t have to water frequently, but be sure to water deeply so the water can reach the roots of the grass.

PET WASTEWaste from pets can cause bald spots on a yard. This might surprise some home-owners, but pet waste con-tains a high level of concen-trated nitrogen that, when

applied to a lawn, can burn the grass and cause bald spots. Urine is most likely to cause bald spots, but fecal matter can as well. When addressing the problem of pet waste on your lawn, make sure no one else’s pets are the cause of the problem. Neighbors out walking their dogs should be discouraged from allowing their dogs to use your lawn as a restroom. If this does not work, then erect a fence or some type of structure that makes it difficult for other people’s pets to access your lawn. When it’s your own pet causing the damage, address the spots where your pet relieves itself as quickly as possible. Watering the area within eight hours can significantly reduce the risk of lawn damage by diluting the nitrogen levels. Another way to address the issue is to encourage the ani-mal to use various spots in the yard, rather than continually using the same spot. Flush each area

with water immediately after the pet is finished. If the damage is already considerable, remove the damaged grass and reseed the spot.

MOWER DAMAGESometimes Mother Nature and man’s best friend are not the culprit with regard to bald spots on your lawn. Human error can cause bald spots, too. Dull mower blades or grass that is cut too low can cause bald spots. Fortunately, this is easily reme-died.To avoid bald spots, make sure mower blades are sharpened at the beginning of each mowing sea-son, as dull blades damage the grass, which is then forced to use valuable nutrients to treat torn grass, weakening the lawn over time. When mow-ing, make sure you’re not cutting too low so the soil can retain as much moisture as possible. This will necessitate more frequent mowing, but this, too, can prevent bald spots, as it ensures those parts of the grass that contain chlorophyll will not be removed.Bald spots can turn a pristine lawn into an eyesore. But treating bald spots can be easy and, when done effectively, the lawn can be restored quickly.

Even the cutest pet can contribute to bald spots on your lawn.

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The backyard has become a go-to destination for warm weather recreation. As the “staycation” has grown in popularity, more effort has been put forth in making the backyard a place where all members of the household can enjoy themselves. That means merging interests into one space. A pool may be competing for acreage along with a decorative patch of lawn. Some homeowners wonder if lawns and pools can be successful alongside each other.Many question if chlorinated pool water poses any ill effects on the grass in the backyard. In addition to splash-out of water during fun times in the pool, water also will be tracked across the lawn from children and adults exiting the pool or will flood the grass when it is necessary to clean and “backwash” the filter. Will you be left with a dried-out patch of chlorine-burnt lawn? Probably not.

Healthy chlorine levels in a pool are kept so that the pool water is generally on par with the chlorine levels contained in regular tap water. You wouldn’t hesitate turning on the hose to water your lawn, so you shouldn’t be overly concerned about pool water splashing out of the pool, particularly if you are stringent about maintaining the proper pH levels and chlorine levels. Also, soil can withstand chlorine at high acid levels and is pretty resilient about self-correcting. Furthermore, grass blades are selective about which nutrients they absorb, so excess chlorine likely will not penetrate the grass blades. Chlorine also dissipates in the sun. Therefore, while the levels may be elevated upon just hitting the grass, over a short while the chlorine will essentially be used up and pose no additional threat to the surrounding lawn.

Some people have actually said that watering your lawn with pool water can be an eco-friendly way of curbing water usage. Therefore, it may be safely used on lawns and most flowering plants. It is unadvisable to water vegetable gardens with pool water because of any trace levels of other chemicals that may be found in the pool water.Homeowners still concerned about exposing their lawns to pool water can create a buffer zone around the pool. Inground pools are traditionally bordered by concrete or patio blocks. Place stone or mulch around the

perimeter of an above-ground pool to catch any splashes and to create a barrier between the pool and the lawn. Also, direct backwashed water through a long tube and have it flow it to an area away from the lawn.Pool owners who want to have vibrant grass likely don’t need to worry about chlorine damaging their lawns. In fact, the lawns may flourish with the extra watering.

Can pools and lawnscohabitate peacefully?

In most cases, pool water will not damage lawns because the chlorine level is not high enough.

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Tackle flying pests in the yardThe warmer months provide ample opportunities for outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying time spent in the yard as a family. But moments in the fresh air and sunshine can be negatively affected by the presence of flying, buzzing or biting bugs.When the weather warms, insects that may have been dormant during the winter begin to exit their dens and reproduce in earnest. Many insects overwinter as eggs and larvae, and multitudes break their dormancy at the same time as host plants. Beetles, flies, gnats, bees, mosquitoes, termites, butterflies, moths, and many other bugs can be seen in abundance in the spring. While there are people who enjoy bugs’ presence as true harbingers of the new season, others who are less enamored with flying insects, especially when they make time outdoors into an exercise in discomfort. Homeowners concerned about the presence of flying insects in their yard can take various steps to manage sharing outdoor spaces with insect life.

PREVENTIONDifferent varieties of insects begin their lives as eggs that may hatch into nymphs or worm-like creatures known as larvae. Oftentimes, these eggs are deposited in water or in damp areas. Mosquito larvae, for example, thrive in stagnant water before theyturnintowinged,bitinginsects.Keepingoutdoor areas free of standing water and ensuring proper drainage are two ways to reduce the population of certain bugs in the yard. Welcoming animals, such as birds and bats that feed on a trove of insects, to the yard can naturally keep insect numbers down.

Flieslayabout50to100eggsatonetime.Theeggs will hatch into maggots in as little as 12 hours afterbeingdeposited.Keepingyardsfreefromdecaying matter, especially around entertaining areas, can limit the number of flies in the yard.

TRAPSThere are a variety of different traps on the market geared toward different insect life. Most use some sort of attractant, whether a scent or light to lure the insects to the trap. Then the bugs fall inside and cannot get out.Although there are some chemical-based traps or bug “zappers,” there are other more natural traps and more humane options, too. Setting traps away from patios and living spaces will lure the insects to the traps and keep them away from you. Once the trapped insects expire, you can bury them in the ground to naturally decompose. Setting traps out very early in the season will help to trap as many emerging insects as possible. You also may be able to trap the queens of certain insects, like bees or wasps, further reducing the number of bugs you will see throughout the year.

REPELLENTSRepellents are natural or chemically derived formulas that are worn or placed in proximity to people. These repellents want insects to find them. Once found, the repellents’ smell or taste is deemed questionable by the insects, who will then seek out other areas to reside.Repellents will vary in efficacy and some may need to be reapplied frequently to remain effective.

However, they are a useful tool when you will not be staying in one spot in the yard.

SCREENSIf you spend ample time outdoors, especially at dusk, then investing in a screened-in room may be the way to go. This way you can enjoy the weather while the insects stay on the other side of the screen. In climates where three-season swimming is possible, some homeowners actually create screened-in rooms that encompass their entire pool.

BENEFICIAL BUGSInsects like butterflies and bees are the unsung heroes of the landscape, as they are responsible for pollinating many flowers and plants. Honeybees and bumblebees will generally keep to themselves if their nests are not disturbed and can actually be enjoyable to watch as they buzz from flower to flower. Wasps, like yellow-jackets, can be attracted to sweet smells, so keeping sugary drinks and foods covered can keep them at bay. Or you may want to lure them to another area of the yard with a bit of raw meat or a can of fruit punch.Sharing outdoor living spaces with flying insects can be aggravating. But there are many options at a homeowner’s disposal to control such unwanted guests.

How to edge a lawnEdging a lawn is a springtime rite of passage for many homeowners. When winter has come and gone, many lawns are left in need of some seri-ous maintenance, including edging. Well-defined edges around the yard make the yard look more organized and better maintained. And edging is relatively easy, especially for those homeowners with a smaller yard. Edging can be time-consum-ing for those with more property, but when done properly, edging is definitely worth the effort.Remove debris from the areas you plan to edge. Before you even begin to edge, be sure to remove any debris from those areas that need edging. Debris, including rocks, twigs or the kids’ toys, left lying around can be kicked up when you’re edging, potentially causing injury to you or someone standing nearby. Purchase safety goggles. Even if you have

removed all visible debris, there still may be some items hidden in the grass. These items can be kicked up and hit you in the eye, so purchase some safety goggles and be sure to wear them whenever you’re edging. As an added precau-tion, keep kids and others away from any areas you’re edging so they aren’t injured by any unseen debris that gets kicked up while you’re working.Check your tools. Edging can be done by using a gas-powered edger or a string trimmer. Before you begin to edge, inspect these tools to ensure they’re capable of handling the task at hand. Inspect the blades on a gas-powered edger to make sure they haven’t dulled since their most recent use. If they are dull, sharpen them before you start to edge. When using a string trimmer, make sure you have enough string on hand to

complete the project. String trimmers use a par-ticular kind of string, so visit your local lawn care or hardware store if you don’t feel like you have enough.Position your edger properly. Once you have given your tools the green light, it’s time to start edging. When you begin, make sure the edger is between the sidewalk or driveway and the edge of the lawn, placing the wheel of the edger on the sidewalk or driveway and then pushing and pulling the edger until you have created a clear edge. If you have never edged before, you may want to practice on smaller, more isolated areas until you become comfortable operating the edger.


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garden may 2013

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