home and garden 2013

The�Perksof�PruningHow pruningbenefits yourtrees and shrubs

GoingGreenGardeningtips forbeginners

WardingOff�WeedsPreventing weedgrowth aroundyour property

8 Preventingweed�growth�apriority�forhomeowners

3

Gardening�tipsfor�beginners

7How�to�preventsoil�erosion

10 Shopping�fora�fire�pit

11Eco-consciousways�to�tendto�your�lawn

14 Caring�for�a�freshlysodded�lawn

15 Can�pools�and�lawnscohabitatepeacefully?

16 Managing�difficultyard�situations

17 Addressing�mossgrowth�on�yourproperty

13 Watering�101��–Help�your�lawn�thrivethroughthe�dog�daysof�summer

19 Tackle�flyingpests�in�the�yard

4

5 Cost-effective�fencingoptions

The�case�for�choosing

native�plants

3 The�benefits�ofpruning�treesand�shrubs

Home & Garden Spring 20132

C. Easley

Home & Garden Spring 2013 3

The case forchoosing native plants

The benefits ofpruning trees andshrubsPruning trees and shrubsis necessary to ensurethey maintain their healthand vigor. Trees andshrubs should beinspected annually todetermine if they need tobe pruned. Mature treestypically do not need to bepruned as frequently asyoung trees, which needpruning to establishbranch structure. Trees and shrubs that go years withoutpruning can become overgrown and weak. In addition topromoting tree and shrub health, pruning pays a host ofother dividends.

Pruning�removes�dead�or�diseased�branches. Pruninghelps a tree or shrub maintain its shape and vigor byremoving broken, dead or diseased branches that can beunsightly and make it more difficult for the tree or shrub tostay healthy. When broken, dead or diseased branches areremoved, trees or shrubs look healthier and add aestheticappeal to a property.

Pruning�trees�and�shrubs�promotes�growth�of�otherplants. Trees and shrubs that go years without beingpruned become overgrown, making it difficult for plantsunderneath or adjacent to them to grow in healthy. Forexample, grass beneath an overgrown tree might not getadequate sunlight, which it needs to establish strong rootsso it can grow in lush and healthy. Pruning allows plantsbeneath the tree and shrub and even those next to the treeand shrub to grow in nicely.Pruning�can�sometimes�bring�plants�back�to�life. Shrubsthat have gone years without being pruned can sometimesstill be salvaged. In some instances, pruning such shrubscan restore natural and healthy growth.

Pruning�reduces�risk�of�accidents. Overgrown trees caninterfere with power lines, increasing the risk of accidentsand power outages. In addition, overgrown trees tend tohave larger, weaker limbs, which can prove hazardous andcause property damage during storms. Pruning overgrowntrees reduces the risk of such accidents.

Pruning�can�save�money. Over time, overgrown treesmight require professional assistance in order to beremoved or pruned from a property. Homeowners whoprune their trees as needed can save themselves the costof a potentially pricey tree service.

Pruning�adds�curb�appeal. A property littered withovergrown trees and shrubs hurts a home’s curb appeal,giving prospective buyers the impression that homeownersmight have been careless with regard to maintaining thewhole house and not just the lawn. But trees and shrubsthat are pruned and well-maintained can add to a home’scurb appeal, something that goes a long way towardimpressing prospective buyers.

One of the best ways to improve a home’sresale value is to address the landscape.Increasing a property’s curb appeal can bedone in many ways, but a well-pruned lawnand garden gives buyers the impression thatthe sellers truly took the time to maintain thehome and the surrounding property.Unfortunately, many homeowners chooseexotic plants when addressing their landscape.Though these plants can be appealing andmake a property stand out, if the plants are notnative to the region, they could be doing moreharm than good. Instead of upgrading yourproperty with exotic plants from a far awayland, consider the following benefits ofchoosing native plants before addressing yourlandscape.

Native�plants�benefit�local�wildlife. Thenative plants and the native wildlife spentyears and years evolving together, with eachdoing their part to ensure the other’s survival.But as development continued, local wildlifesuffered because of lost food sources. Thelocal wildlife needs local, native plants tosurvive, so choosing these plants instead ofexotic plants can help ensure the survival ofwildlife that helps keep the ecosystem incheck.

Native�plants�require�less�work. Someprospective home buyers might find a yardfilled with exotic plants to be visually stunning,but they might also see a good deal of work tomaintain those plants. Many exotic plantsrequire significant work on a homeowner’s partto survive, while native plants have alreadyadapted to the local climate and will requiremuch less care. This is often attractive tocurrent and future homeowners alike.

Native�plants�might�be�a�better�investment.A native plant has evolved over the years tosurvive in its given area. Local insectpopulations and fungal infections might beable to destroy an exotic plant, but a nativeplant has grown resistant to such problemsand likely has the ability to fight suchinfestations or infections on its own. An exoticplant might require costly pesticides andconsiderable attention from homeowners tosurvive such problems.Though homeowners might find exotic plantshelp their home stand out from theirneighbors’, it’s important that homeownersrecognize the environmental benefits ofchoosing local plants before making anydecisions.

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.

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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Cost-effectivefencing options

Fencing serves many purposes.Some homeowners erect a fence forprivacy, while others do so to containpets and children. Because fencingcan be expensive, some homeownerslook for ways to cut costs, which canbe relatively easy, especially for thosehomeowners willing to considervarious materials when erecting theirfence.Traditional fences are available inmaterials ranging from wood to vinylto metal. Homeowners have otheroptions at their disposal if they prefera more natural fence. Differentshrubs, trees or grasses can beplanted to create a barrier betweenproperties or within the property.When choosing a fencing material,consider that even a less expensivematerial may prove more expensivein the long run if it needs significantmaintenance or has to be replaced injust a few years. Therefore, the mostcost-effective fencing material maynot necessarily be the leastexpensive one at the store. Here aresome materials homeowners canconsider.

Found�material: Repurposed woodor metal can be crafted into a rustic,one-of-a-kind fence. Materials can befound that are no cost, requiring onlythe cost of labor. Should you build ityourself, this can be next to nothing.Sometimes existing fences onanother property can bedisassembled and re-built on yourown property for little to no cost aswell.

Chainlink/chainwire: Chainlinkfencing is one of the most economicaltypes of boundary fencing. Thefencing comes in a variety of diamondsizes and is fixed to galvanized pipesspaced across the perimeter of theproperty. Although it is some of theleast expensive fencing, it does notoffer much privacy on its own. But if

you are looking at fencing simply as abarrier, chainlink could be the way togo.

Picket�fencing: A wooden picketfence is another inexpensive fencingmaterial. The pickets can bepurchased in various heights, and thisfence may be used as garden borderfencing or to mark a property linebetween homes. Spacing the picketswidely apart may cut down on thenumber that need to be purchased,further keeping the cost down.Bamboo: Bamboo is a rapidlygrowing grass that produces a hardwood-like material that is used inmany building applications. Bamboowood can be used to build a fence,but the natural plant also can beplanted to form a living fence forprivacy.

Stockade�fencing: A stockade fenceis one of the more basic wood fencingoptions. Wooden slats are placedalongside one another to form aneffective and affordable privacy fence.Stockade fencing can be stained orpainted to preserve it. Many homeimprovement retailers sell panels ofstockade fencing so that you canmake fence installation a do-it-yourself project.

Vinyl�fencing: Although vinyl fencingis one of the more expensive fencingmaterials at the outset (it costs abouttwice the price of a wood fence), itdoes pay for itself rather quicklythanks to minimal maintenance.Unlike some other materials, vinyl willnot rot or discolor. You also won’thave to purchase stain, paint andexpensive cleaners for a vinyl fence.That means once you make theinvestment, you will have years uponyears of maintenance-freeenjoyment.There are many different fencingmaterials that can coordinate with avariety of budgets.

Redbud

How topreventsoil erosionInstalling�runoff�barriers�madeof�brick,�stone�or�othermaterials�around�plants�andshrubs�is�one�way�to�reducesoil�erosion�and�runoff.


Homeowners who spend time tendingto their landscape are increasinglylooking eco-friendly ways to maintaintheir lawns and gardens.Homeowners who once relied onpotentially harmful pesticides to crafta lush lawn now prefer ways thatdon’t leave such a significant carbonfootprint.Preventing soil erosion is one way toincorporate conservation into lawnand garden care. Conservation is oneof many environmental practices

aimed at preserving the planet’snatural resources, which include soil.Preventing soil erosion is easy andcan be accomplished in a number ofways.Don’t�overwater. Some may assumethat keeping soil as damp as possiblekeeps it healthy. However,overwatering the soil can cause runoffthat washes the soil away. In addition,overwatering the soil can degrade it

and contribute to erosion. Instead ofoverwatering, keep the soil moist butdon’t overdo it. If you’re having troublekeeping soil moist, consider layingdown some mulch, which helps retainmoisture and deliver nutrients to thesoil that keep it healthy.

Plant�trees�and�shrubs. Trees andshrubs are friends to soil, providingshelter while their roots keep the soilin place and prevent it from easilyblowing away on a windy day. It alsohelps soil from washing away whenwarm weather arrives and thelandscape must be watered on a dailybasis.

Create�runoff�barriers. Runoffbarriers are edges that can be madeof brick, stone or other materials thathelp reduce runoff. Many homeownersinstall runoff barriers along sidewalksand driveways to ensure the soil doesnot spill out onto the pavement, butthese also help the soil as much asthey help to keep walkways and otherareas free of soil and looking tidy.

Consider�leaving�some�grassaround�the�garden. Tillage is theprocess of preparing land to grow

crops. While many homeowners don’tview their weekend gardening asgrowing crops, similar principles applywhether you’re growing crops on afarm or just a few vegetables in thebackyard. One such principle isconservation tillage, which meansleaving a portion of vegetation in theground instead of stripping everythingaway before planting. For homegardeners, consider leaving a smallamount of grass around the garden tokeep the soil within the garden’sboundaries. It’s a principle similar toinstalling runoff barriers, and it can bejust as effective at preventing soilerosion.

Preventing weed growth

a priority for homeownersWeeds in a lawn or garden can be anunsightly and potentially unhealthynuisance. No gardener enjoys seeingweeds spring up throughout his or hercarefully planted garden, as suchuninvited guests rob a well-tendedgarden of its aesthetic appeal. Inaddition, weeds can steal valuablewater and nutrients from plants,prohibiting their growth as a result.Homeowners who understand howharmful weeds can be can preventthem in a variety of ways. Where weedgrowth is insignificant, it might bepossible to simply pull them out of theground before they can do anysubstantial damage. In areas of heavyweed growth, however, a moreconcentrated effort must be made toprevent further weed growth once theweeds have been removed. Thefollowing are a few ways homeownerscan prevent weeds from growingthroughout their lawns.

Be�proactive. Preventing weed

growth is a proactive job, sohomeowners want to be proactive tokeep weeds from infesting theirproperty. Proper and routine lawnmaintenance might be all it takes. Addquality topsoil to your lawn or gardento produce a healthier surface thatmakes it more difficult for weeds togrow. As the season progresses,continue to maintain your lawn bymowing and watering.

Aerate�the�soil�at�the�onset�of�theseason. Aerating your lawn at thedawn of the mowing season helpsbreak up soil that grew compactedover the winter. Once aerated, the soilcan disperse nutrients, oxygen andwater more effectively, allowinghealthier roots to grow and reducingthe risk of weed growth as a result.

Fertilize�the�lawn. Fertilizer helpsgrass grow in thick and dense, whichleaves little to no room for the growthof weeds. While fertilizer does notnecessarily guarantee that weeds

won’t grow, it does go along way toward helping alawn grow in healthy, anda healthy lawn is often aweed’s worst enemy.Some fertilizers on themarket are a combination of fertilizerand weed preventer, and suchproducts might be ideal forhomeowners who are especiallyconcerned about weed growth. Thelifespan of weed preventers varies, sokeep in mind that you might need toreapply a weed preventer in a fewmonths to keep getting the sameresults. Fertilizing is typically donetwice a year, once in the spring andagain in the fall.

Lay�down�landscape�fabric.Landscape fabric is another weedprevention alternative that can preventweed growth for several years. Beforelaying down landscape fabric, which isperhaps most commonly used inflower beds, remove all weeds and

other vegetation you do not wish togrow. You will likely need to cut thefabric to the area you want it to coverand cut an opening for plants andflowers. The fabric is then typicallycovered with mulch, which keeps thefabric in place. Landscape fabric is effective becauseit blocks the sun from reaching anyarea that it’s covering while stillallowing air, water and nutrients topenetrate and reach the soil. Weedsneed sun to grow, so landscape fabriccan be highly effective at preventingweed growth. Weeds are an unsightly nuisance thathomeowners would prefer to dowithout. Preventing weed growth isrelatively easy, and, in many cases,your efforts can bear fruit through theentire season.



Did you know?When people think of outdoor storage, they generallyenvision garden sheds to house their lawn and gardenequipment and tools. However, if space doesn’t allow fora large shed, there is no need to fret because there areother storage possibilities. Consider a garden ottoman orbench, for example. This structure can be built from woodand then painted or covered in padded fabric. Store smallitems inside the ottoman, which can also serve as a tableor additional seating. In addition to an ottoman, a gardentool that can keep shovels and rakes organized.Homeowners with a deck can construct lidded deck boxesto store patio cushions or any other outdoor equipment.Utilizing the space under the deck is another idea. Coverthe perimeter of the bottom of the deck with lattice andinstall one piece on a hinge to serve as a door. Storeequipment underneath and out of sight. It also will beprotected from the elements.

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.

• Keep the fire pit away from the home and objects that can burn. Maintain a

safe distance from the fire pit at all times.

• The best place to have the fire pit is on hard stone, cement or tile. Portable

fire pits can be placed on patio stones in the lawn.

• Use a screen to keep embers and sparks from escaping during use.

• Keep children a good distance away from the fire pit and always

supervise when the pit is in use.

• Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before going in for the night.

• Do not use any accelerants to make the fire bigger or light faster.

• Buy a vinyl cover to protect the fire pit from the elements when not in use.


Baptist Village

Eco-conscious ways to tend to your lawnMany 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�relyon�gas�to�work�is�one�way

homeowners�can�take�a�moreeco-friendly�approach�to�lawn

care.


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Dynamite Air

Bill & Ruths

Water is essential to keeping a lawnor garden in good health. Thetrouble with watering is that it canbe time-consuming, especially ifyour idea of watering is standingoutside with the hose. But thanks toirrigation systems, watering hasbecome a lot less hands-on.An irrigation sprinkler or drip systemtakes much of the work out ofwatering a landscape. Some canalso be fitted to deliver fertilizer andweed-prevention products to alawn. But before any digging takesplace, homeowners might want tolearn about the advantages anddisadvantages of irrigation systems.

ADVANTAGESOne of the most obviousadvantages is the time savingsafforded by an automatic sprinkleror drip irrigation system. Onceinstalled, many systems can be setto a timer to water at specific timeintervals and on certain days of theweek. This means there’s no needto worry about forgetting to waterthe lawn and coming back fromvacation to find crisp, yellow grass.Another advantage is that irrigationsystems, particularly the drip type,can be positioned so that water ismore effectively targeted where it isneeded. Nozzles can be adjustedand underground drip tubes willdeliver water right to the roots,rather than spraying walkways anddriveways.Another advantage is that automaticirrigation systems are generallyhidden from view, which meansthere are no unsightly hosesstretched across the lawn and nomore tripping hazards. Sprinklerheads pop up to spray and thenretract when the job is done.Underground drip systems do theirwork out of view. For families withyoung children and pets who shareoutdoor spaces, automatic systemsmay be a safer option.

DISADVANTAGESThe primary disadvantageassociated with a sprinkler systemis the expense. These systems canbe quite costly depending on thesize of the property. Furthermore,portions of the lawn will have to bedug up to install pipework andattach it to the plumbing system ofthe home. This can equate to daysor weeks without use of the yard.Afterwards, the landscaping willhave to be repaired.It is best to install an irrigationsystem prior to the installation ofsod or extensive landscapingbecause some of it will have to betorn up. Homeowners who alreadyhave pristine yards may be turnedoff by this reality.Even the most efficient sprinklersystems can have their pitfalls.Wind can wreak havoc onsprinklers, directing water in thewrong direction. Underground pestsmay damage water-deliverysystems, resulting in water poolingor broken parts. The repairs to fixan irrigation system can be muchmore costly than replacing adamaged garden hose.Irrigation systems have theiradvantages and disadvantages,and homeowners should weigh theiroptions before installing a new system.

Pros and consof automatic irrigation systems

Some�homeownerschoose�to�installautomatic�irrigationsystems�rather�thanusing�a��hose�andportable�sprinkler.


Summer can take its toll on justabout everyone. Even the mostardent fan of summer eventuallygrows weary of a heat wave, whichcan make something as simple aswalking down the street seemexhausting.While human beings have their waysof surviving summer heat, suchsurvival can be more difficult for yourlawn and garden. Certain grassesand plants thrive in hot weather. Butwhen the dog days of summer arrive,even those grasses and plants builtto withstand the summer sun cansuffer. That’s why watering takes onsuch importance in the summertime,when grasses and plants need waterto avoid drying out and possibly evendying. The following are a few basicwatering techniques to helphomeowners keep their lawns goingstrong through the next summerswoon.

Water�when�it’s�coolest. Wateringwhen the temperatures are theirlowest might seem counterintuitive.After all, homeowners might thinktheir grass and gardens need watermost when the temperature is at itshighest. But watering when thetemperature is cooler decreasesevaporation, meaning your lawn willget the water it needs and won’t loseany to steamy conditions that causeevaporation. This is especiallyimportant when the amount of wateryou can use is limited by a droughtrestriction. You’ll want to make surethe water you can use is actuallygoing to the lawn and notevaporating as you’re watering. Watering in the early morning or inthe evening, when the sun is not asstrong and the temperatures aregenerally at their coolest, alsoreduces the likelihood that yourgrass will burn. That’s because waterattracts the sun, and a lawn that’s

wet in the middle of a hot day mightattract too much sun and cause thelawn to burn.

Recognize�that�not�all�plants�arethe�same. How much water a plantneeds and how frequently it needs tobe watered largely depends on howdeep its roots are. A plant withshallow roots won’t need to bewatered for long periods of time, butit will need to be watered frequently,whereas a deep-rooted plant like atree or a shrub will need to bewatered for long periods of time butnot as frequently. Research theplants around your property todetermine the depths of their rootsystems and water accordingly.

Lean�on�mulch�to�retain�moisture.Mulch is often considered anaesthetically appealing addition to alandscape, but it serves a practicalpurpose as well. Mulch retainsmoisture during the hot summermonths, reducing the need to water— a valuable benefit during adrought restriction. Mulch alsomakes it difficult for weeds to grow,which can keep homeowners fromspending hot summer afternoonspulling weeds out of their gardensand flower beds.

Strategically�locate�sprinklers.Sprinklers should be located so nowater is ending up on the drivewayor sidewalks around your property.Watering the concrete or asphalt iswasteful, and that’s water that couldbe going toward your plants. Whenwatering by hand, be sure all of thewater is finding its way to plants andnot on any walkways.Successfully watering a lawn andgarden during the dog days ofsummer can greatly reduce the riskof ending summer with a lawn full ofbald spots and a garden filled withwilted plants.

Effective�watering�can�help�a�lawn�andgarden�survive�the�dog�days�of�summer.

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

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Caring for a freshlysodded lawnSod, sometimes called turf, canquickly turn a barren landscape into arich, thick carpet of green.Homeowners hoping to revive theirlawns commonly turn to sod as thequickest means to do just that.However, once the sod has been laiddown, few homeowners may knowhow to keep it looking its best.Sod is real grass that is grown onspecial farms. It is generally grownlocally to avoid long transport timesthat could dry out the product. Sod istypically sold in squares or rolls ofgrass that come with the roots andsoil already attached. There may besome sort of thin backing material onthe sod to keep the grass bladestogether.Many homeowners turn to sod whengrowing lawn from seed becomesproblematic or too time-consuming.Seeds can be blown around in thewind or be eaten by birds and otheranimals before they have a chance togerminate.

Sodding a lawn is a majorinvestment, costing as much as $1per two-foot square. Depending onthe size of your lawn, this can be acostly job even before adding the costof additional supplies, such as soil,fertilizer and tilling equipment. Manyhomeowners who install sod want toensure their investment lasts. Hereare the main ways to care for andprotect sod until it is fully established.

•Once the sod has been laid down,the lawn should be thoroughlysoaked with water. Most expertsrecommend soaking it to a depthof 6 inches.

• It is important to establish awatering schedule to keep the sodmoist. Water the sod to a depth ofone inch every other day for thefirst three weeks to enable theroots to securely establishthemselves in the soil.

•Water the sod every other dayunless the weather has been very

warm. After four weeks you cangenerally go up to five dayswithout watering as long as youtransition slowly. The sod willchange colors if it is not gettingenough water. Never let the lawnturn yellow, otherwise you mayhave to cut out dead spotsand re-sod.

•Wait two to four weeks beforemowing the sod. Keep the lawnheight to around two inches toensure that it won’t scald in the sun.

•After two months of establishedsod growth, aerate the sod tokeep the soil from being too

compact and to enable oxygenand nutrients to get into the soil.

•Keep children and pets off of thesod while it is establishing itself.

•Fertilize the lawn every 50 to 60days, beginning in March andending in October.

• Inspect the sod for pests, whichmay include insects or problemslike fungi or weeds. Treataccordingly with productsdesigned to remove pests.

Using sod to establish a lush lawn isa fast, albeit more expensive optionto sowing seeds. After a few weeksthe lawn will be thick and secure.

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

Factors to consider before installing artificial grass

Lawn-care enthusiasts may bristle at the notionof installing artificial grass on their property, butmany homeowners are turning to artificial grassfor their homes. Men and women without apreference one way or the other might want toconsider a variety of factors before installingartificial grass on their property or sticking withnatural grass.

Cost:�The cost of artificial turf is perhaps thebiggest factor for many homeowners. The initial

cost of artificial turf is considerably more thanthe cost of seed to grow or refurbish a naturallawn. And while artificial turf, once installed, willnot require the services of a professionallandscaper, saving homeowners money duringthe warmer months, homeowners might stillwant to hire a professional landscaper to tend totheir trees, shrubs, gardens and other plantsaround the property. In addition, homeownersshould consider if the presence of artificial turfmay increase or lower their property value whenthey hope to resell the home.

Appearance: Artificial grass won’t wilt or burnunder the hot summer sun, giving it a distinctadvantage over natural grass, especially inregions where drought and/or extreme heat arepar for the course. But homeowners who preferthe look, feel and smell of natural grass mightfind that artificial grass’ flawless appearance isnot worth sacrificing the sensory benefits ofnatural grass.

Maintenance: Once installed, artificial turf isessentially maintenance-free. Homeowners

won’t need to fertilize or mow the grass, spendtime watering it or inspect it for signs ofdeterioration or disease. Homeowners who donot enjoy spending weekend afternoons tendingto their lawns might find artificial turf is theirideal surface.

Usage: When the dog days of summer arrive,artificial turf can get very hot. Kids and pets wholove to play in the yard might find artificial turf isvery uncomfortable when the mercury rises,while natural grass does not heat up as much,making it a safer option for families who spendample time playing in the yard.Environmental�impact: Artificial turf andnatural grass can both have adverse effects onthe environment. Artificial turf is oftenmanufactured with potentially harmful chemicalswhile equally harmful pesticides are commonlyused to maintain natural grass. Neither is idealfor the environment, but there are chemical-freeways to maintain natural grass, likely makingnatural grass a more attractive option forhomeowners hoping to be as eco-friendly aspossible.

The backyard has become a go-todestination for warm weatherrecreation. As the “staycation” hasgrown in popularity, more effort hasbeen put forth in making the backyarda place where all members of thehousehold can enjoy themselves.That means merging interests intoone space. A pool may be competingfor acreage along with a decorativepatch of lawn. Some homeownerswonder if lawns and pools can besuccessful alongside each other.Many question if chlorinated poolwater poses any ill effects on thegrass in the backyard. In addition tosplash-out of water during fun timesin the pool, water also will be trackedacross the lawn from children andadults exiting the pool or will flood thegrass when it is necessary to cleanand “backwash” the filter. Will you beleft with a dried-out patch of chlorine-

burnt lawn? Probably not.Healthy chlorine levels in a pool arekept so that the pool water isgenerally on par with the chlorinelevels contained in regular tap water.You wouldn’t hesitate turning on thehose to water your lawn, so youshouldn’t be overly concerned aboutpool water splashing out of the pool,particularly if you are stringent aboutmaintaining the proper pH levels andchlorine levels. Also, soil canwithstand chlorine at high acid levelsand is pretty resilient about self-correcting. Furthermore, grass bladesare selective about which nutrientsthey absorb, so excess chlorine likelywill not penetrate the grass blades. Chlorine also dissipates in the sun.Therefore, while the levels may beelevated upon just hitting the grass,over a short while the chlorine willessentially be used up and pose no

additionalthreat to thesurroundinglawn. Somepeople haveactually saidthatwateringyour lawnwith poolwater can be an eco-friendly way ofcurbing water usage. Therefore, itmay be safely used on lawns andmost flowering plants. It isunadvisable to water vegetablegardens with pool water because ofany trace levels of other chemicalsthat may be found in the pool water.Homeowners still concerned aboutexposing their lawns to pool watercan create a buffer zone around thepool. Inground pools are traditionally

bordered by concrete or patio blocks.Place stone or mulch around theperimeter of an above-ground pool tocatch any splashes and to create abarrier between the pool and thelawn. Also, direct backwashed waterthrough a long tube and have it flow itto an area away from the lawn.Pool owners who want to havevibrant grass likely don’t need toworry about chlorine damaging theirlawns. In fact, the lawns may flourishwith the extra watering.

Can pools and lawnscohabitate peacefully?

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


Canoe Brook Cool Enterprise

IRRIGATION�ISSUESImproper drainage or low-lying areasin a yard may contribute to a muddymess. Soil that is inhospitable forgrass also may end up causingmuddy patches because the grasssimply does not grow. In some cases,remedying a muddy yard is easy andinexpensive. Some homeowners findthat tilling the soil and amending itwith a fiber mulch helps to absorbextra water and make the conditionsbetter for lawn seeds to sprout. Thisalso helps to aerate compacted soilthat can hinder grass growth. Addingsoil fill also may help to level low-lyingareas that can be puddling.Some homeowners find that theyneed to do a little more work andspend some more money to fixirrigation issues. Installing a drainingsystem or having the property slopedto draw water away can sometimesbe done by a homeowner but is oftenbest left to a professional. You mayneed to dig trenches, and theproperty may need to be regraded tomake a difference.

SANDY�SOILGrass and other plants may not growwell with sandy or clay soil. Again,amending the soil is one way toremedy the problem. Although it willtake some work at the outset,amending the soil can improveconditions and reduce how muchmaintenance the lawn needs. Diggingdown several inches and addingnutrient-rich filler soil will help create

conditions that are better for growing.Those who are interested in plantingvegetables could opt for raisedgarden beds above the challengingsoil.

SHADESometimes a yard is problematicbecause of the amount of sunshine itreceives. Too much sunshine canscald certain grasses, whileinadequate sunshine may result inbare patches where grass won’t grow.If cost is no object, removing orplanting trees to establish bettergrowing conditions could be anoption. However, today there aremany grass blends that are tailoredtoward specific sunlight scenarios.Homeowners may find that low-lightblends will grow better in shadyareas.For those who are finding no luck withgrass blends, it may just benecessary to think creatively. Plantshade-loving plants, such as ferns orground cover, where the grass won’ttake. Design the landscape so it looksintentional. Flagstone and slateplaced in certain areas also maymask temperamental growing areas.There are different options formanaging various situations in theyard that can make growing lawn orother plants challenging. If projectsare difficult, it could be smart to call ina 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.

Managing difficultyard situations


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Lawn care enthusiasts put lots of timeand effort into their lawns and takegreat pride when that work pays offwith a luscious green lawn. But nolawn is immune to problems, andeven the most well-maintainedproperty can develop issues thatcompromise the lawn’s health andaesthetic appeal. Moss is one potential lawn issue thatmany green-thumbers would prefer toavoid. While moss is not alwaysharmful, it can be unsightly and lawncare enthusiasts may spend asignificant amount of moneyattempting to control it. Controlling

moss can be costly, but there aresome ways to control moss that willnot cost homeowners much money atall. Before addressing moss in youryard, it helps to understand why mossgrows and then look at the variousways to control it once it does.

WHAT�CAUSES�MOSS�GROWTH?Moss can grow in a yard for a varietyof reasons, but the most commoncause of moss growth is insufficientsunlight to support the grass. Sunlightmight be blocked by shade fromnearby trees or shrubs or evenshadows from your home.

Soil conditions may also beresponsible for moss growth. Soil thatis very acidic can promote mossgrowth, and the moss that growsbecause of acidic soil will appear veryhealthy. Compacted soil can also promotemoss growth because such soil haslow oxygen levels that make it hardfor the turf to establish strong roots,and moss will take advantage ofthose weaker roots.Soil with low fertility levels is alsoamenable to moss, as it does notproduce a healthy turf. Unhealthy turfmakes it easy for plants with a lowdemand for nutrients, including moss,to establish themselves.

HOW�CAN�I�SOLVE�THEPROBLEM�OF�MOSS�GROWTH?

Moss that grows because ofexcessive shade can often beaddressed with some minor efforts. Ifthe shade is a result of trees orbushes, prune them regularly so

sunlight can reach the turf andpromote strong turf and roots. If theshade is caused by your house, thenyou might consider removing theexisting turf and then seeding thearea with a turf mix that caters toshaded areas.If moss is growing because ofcompacted soil, aerate the turf andsoil to break it up and allow theoxygen to reach the soil. When thatoccurs, the turf will begin to establishstronger roots and make it moredifficult for moss to grow.When soil is tested and it isdetermined that the soil is acidic, thenthe soil must be adjusted. Lime mightbe applied to rebalance the soil, buthomeowners should consult a lawncare professional for advice as to thebest way to rebalance their soil.Lawn-care enthusiasts often bristle atthe sight of moss on their lusciouslawns. But moss is often an easilyremedied issue that homeowners canaddress in a variety of ways.

Addressing mossgrowth on yourproperty


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Tackle flying pests in the yardThe warmer months provide ample opportunitiesfor outdoor entertaining or simply enjoying timespent in the yard as a family. But moments in thefresh air and sunshine can be negatively affectedby the presence of flying, buzzing or biting bugs.When the weather warms, insects that may havebeen dormant during the winter begin to exit theirdens and reproduce in earnest. Many insectsoverwinter as eggs and larvae, and multitudesbreak their dormancy at the same time as hostplants. Beetles, flies, gnats, bees, mosquitoes,termites, butterflies, moths, and many other bugscan be seen in abundance in the spring. Whilethere are people who enjoy bugs’ presence as trueharbingers of the new season, others who are lessenamored with flying insects, especially when theymake time outdoors into an exercise in discomfort.Homeowners concerned about the presence offlying insects in their yard can take various steps tomanage sharing outdoor spaces with insect life.

PREVENTIONDifferent varieties of insects begin their lives aseggs that may hatch into nymphs or worm-likecreatures known as larvae. Oftentimes, these eggsare deposited in water or in damp areas. Mosquitolarvae, for example, thrive in stagnant water beforethey turn into winged, biting insects. Keepingoutdoor areas free of standing water and ensuringproper drainage are two ways to reduce thepopulation of certain bugs in the yard. Welcominganimals, such as birds and bats that feed on atrove of insects, to the yard can naturally keepinsect numbers down.

Flies lay about 50 to 100 eggs at one time. Theeggs will hatch into maggots in as little as 12 hoursafter being deposited. Keeping yards free fromdecaying matter, especially around entertainingareas, can limit the number of flies in the yard.

TRAPSThere are a variety of different traps on the marketgeared toward different insect life. Most use somesort of attractant, whether a scent or light to lurethe insects to the trap. Then the bugs fall insideand cannot get out.Although there are some chemical-based traps orbug “zappers,” there are other more natural trapsand more humane options, too. Setting traps awayfrom patios and living spaces will lure the insects tothe traps and keep them away from you. Once thetrapped insects expire, you can bury them in theground to naturally decompose. Setting traps out very early in the season will helpto trap as many emerging insects as possible. Youalso may be able to trap the queens of certaininsects, like bees or wasps, further reducing thenumber of bugs you will see throughout the year.

REPELLENTSRepellents are natural or chemically derivedformulas that are worn or placed in proximity topeople. These repellents want insects to find them.Once found, the repellents’ smell or taste isdeemed questionable by the insects, who will thenseek out other areas to reside.Repellents will vary in efficacy and some may needto be reapplied frequently to remain effective.

However, they are a useful tool when you will notbe staying in one spot in the yard.

SCREENSIf you spend ample time outdoors, especially atdusk, then investing in a screened-in room may bethe way to go. This way you can enjoy the weatherwhile the insects stay on the other side of thescreen. In climates where three-season swimmingis possible, some homeowners actually createscreened-in rooms that encompass their entirepool.

BENEFICIAL�BUGSInsects like butterflies and bees are the unsungheroes of the landscape, as they are responsiblefor pollinating many flowers and plants. Honeybeesand bumblebees will generally keep to themselvesif their nests are not disturbed and can actually beenjoyable to watch as they buzz from flower toflower. Wasps, like yellow-jackets, can be attractedto sweet smells, so keeping sugary drinks andfoods covered can keep them at bay. Or you maywant to lure them to another area of the yard with abit of raw meat or a can of fruit punch.Sharing outdoor living spaces with flying insectscan be aggravating. But there are many options ata homeowner’s disposal to control such unwantedguests.

How to edge a lawnEdging a lawn is a springtime rite of passage formany homeowners. When winter has come andgone, many lawns are left in need of someserious maintenance, including edging. Well-defined edges around the yard make the yardlook more organized and better maintained. Andedging is relatively easy, especially for thosehomeowners with a smaller yard. Edging can betime-consuming for those with more property, butwhen done properly, edging is definitely worth theeffort.Remove�debris�from�the�areas�you�plan�toedge. Before you even begin to edge, be sure toremove any debris from those areas that neededging. Debris, including rocks, twigs or the kids’toys, left lying around can be kicked up whenyou’re edging, potentially causing injury to you orsomeone standing nearby.

Purchase�safety�goggles. Even if you haveremoved all visible debris, there still may besome items hidden in the grass. These items canbe kicked up and hit you in the eye, so purchasesome safety goggles and be sure to wear themwhenever you’re edging. As an added precaution,keep kids and others away from any areas you’reedging so they aren’t injured by any unseendebris that gets kicked up while you’re working.

Check�your�tools. Edging can be done by usinga gas-powered edger or a string trimmer. Beforeyou begin to edge, inspect these tools to ensurethey’re capable of handling the task at hand.Inspect the blades on a gas-powered edger tomake sure they haven’t dulled since their mostrecent use. If they are dull, sharpen them beforeyou start to edge. When using a string trimmer,make sure you have enough string on hand to

complete the project. String trimmers use aparticular kind of string, so visit your local lawncare or hardware store if you don’t feel like youhave enough.

Position�your�edger�properly. Once you havegiven your tools the green light, it’s time to startedging. When you begin, make sure the edger isbetween the sidewalk or driveway and the edgeof the lawn, placing the wheel of the edger on thesidewalk or driveway and then pushing andpulling the edger until you have created a clearedge. If you have never edged before, you maywant to practice on smaller, more isolated areasuntil you become comfortable operating theedger.

Tulsa New Holland11919 East Pine St.Tulsa, OK 74116918-438-5665www.tulsanewholland.com

home and garden 2013

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