|Vinelanders Community Land Trust|
2360 E 12th Suite B
Kansas City, MO
PO Box 270349Kansas City, MO 64127
A WELCOME MESSAGE FROM THE FOUNDER
Urban Design: My Perspective
While urban design has always remained an important part of the planning practice, it has received renewed attention in recent years as the revitalization of the city inner core, and a return to historic neighborhood forms (such as those promoted by new urbanism) have become greater priorities across the city. I consider myself as an urban designer, and a Kansas Citian, and also a bystander with a front-row seat. I have spent considerable time learning and observing my city as it operates from within.
To understand urban design, we must first define it. Urban design is not architecture, landscape architecture, or city planning; rather, it's the melding of these disciplines to create a cultural environment that provides an inviting and stimulating context for all types of human interactions. It's about relationships; how buildings relate to open spaces; how buildings and open spaces relate to other buildings and open spaces; how buildings and open spaces relate to the street; how people relate to these buildings and open spaces and streets; and how people relate to each other in this complex web. Urban design seeks to respect the patterns of what went before, and to create spaces that will be enjoyed by many people in many different ways in the future. It is about using our talents of design and appreciation of the created order to create an environment for Kansas Citians and our community to thrive.
Urban design affects all of us directly. It determines to a great extent, whether or not we find a place enjoyable. This sense of wanting to be in a place could come from harmony of texture and color, the presence of trees and vegetation, or shelter from sun, wind, or rain. It could be from public seating areas that invite us to sit down to talk, or simply to watch the world go by. Urban design greatly influences our perceptions of safety and security. It affects our engagement with the city and with each other. Urban design must necessarily consider both the revitalization of under-developed areas and the redevelopment of new communities. While suburbia provides living spaces that meet many needs, it is largely ineffective in creating civic identity. To combat this problem, the proponents of new urbanism seek to employ pedestrian-oriented prewar neighborhood patterns in new developments to recreate a sense of community. However, there is a growing realization that urban core, regardless of size, are the (HUBS OF CIVIC LIFE AND IDENTITY).
This realization brings a growing acceptance that public investment in historic urban center is beneficial and necessary for the civic good, even if historic economic vitality (e.g. a full range of retail uses) may never be fully restored. Civic buildings such as city halls, theatres and stadiums belong in historic downtowns. Plazas and squares provide venues for community events, or simply spaces in which to spend time in the presence of other people on a beautiful day. Churches, including those with historic buildings that are integral to a city's built heritage, also make their contributions to community life. Poor design cheapens a community; it results, at least in part, in exploitation of an economic resource, and leads to BLIGHT as the building or development outlasts its original short-term purpose, or deteriorates due to poor materials or lack of maintenance. There are many examples of lost opportunities sterile spaces that people use only if required.
Urban design is for people. THE PRESENCE OF PEOPLE DEFINE SUCCESS, and therefore we need to carefully consider what people need. This includes homes, workplaces, social spaces, worship spaces, and recreational spaces. The quality of our lives is inextricably linked to the function and beauty of our natural and built environments, and the built environments we choose greatly influence our relationship with the natural environment. To put it simply, we are aesthetic creatures. The way our places look and feel matters greatly to us, whether or not we choose to acknowledge it.
"NOT A TRADITIONAL COMMUNITY LAND TRUST"
For purposes of the disclosure, we're not affiliated with Habitat for Humanity International or its affiliates Habitat for Humanity.
THE SOLUTION TO AFFORDABLE HOUSING IS TO SELF BUILD


Marla Tofle is a woman with a mission.
“Napa’s trees make our city and our neighborhoods livable, beautiful, and welcoming,” she said. “I want to do whatever I can to protect and enhance our shade canopy, so it’s robust and healthy for years to come.”
Tofle is joining other Napa residents in asking for the inclusion of an Urban Forest Master Plan in the city’s 2040 General Plan.
Tofle, a somatics teacher, and her husband, Bruce Fenton, a civil engineer, recently redid the landscaping at their Fuller Park neighborhood home. They planted 12 trees in their formerly treeless yard, and two street trees.
“The City Parks and Recreation Services Department was our ally in the process of planting street trees. We planted two trident maple trees in front, but technically they’re not our trees. The trees that are in the public right of way are owned by all of Napa’s residents.”
Tofle became concerned about trees when she saw mature street trees being cut down in her neighborhood. In 2012, she and her neighbors wanted to know why this was happening and held a meeting with the mayor and city staff.
“It was a very emotional meeting because people don’t like to lose trees. We learned that sidewalks were being repaired at the expense of trees. But we can have both, if we look at how other communities protect trees. That’s why we need to have a vision of protecting and enhancing our urban forest and shade canopy included in the General Plan update.”
Our urban forest consists of all the trees in the city — in parks, private yards, commercial lots, and within the public right of way (“street trees”). These trees do much more than beautify our city and add to property values. They are a critical part of our natural infrastructure. Trees lower temperatures by providing shade and cooling through evapotranspiration. Trees reduce stormwater runoff and improve water quality by absorbing and filtering rainwater. They act to reduce noise and buffer winds, adding to our quality of life.
“Trees are more important than ever as we work to protect our city from climate change impacts” says Nancy McCoy-Blotzke, chairperson of Napa Climate NOW!’s Forest Protection Committee. “The EPA reports that tree shading can reduce peak temperatures by 20-45 degrees. Trees draw down — sequester — carbon from the atmosphere as they absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis. They absorb other climate pollutants including ozone and the super-warming particulate black carbon (found in diesel exhaust). Both of these actions work to slow increases in the heat-trapping greenhouse gas layer.”
Dave Perazzo, City of Napa Parks & Urban Forestry manager, and John “Woody” Hedderman, City of Napa Urban Forestry supervisor, are charged with carrying out the city’s tree programs.
Parks and Recreation Services is responsible for the regulation of trees on public and private property. There are four city arborists who evaluate tree health, advise on ways to prevent tree removal during sidewalk repair, develop pruning plans for publicly owned trees, and review tree removals and plantings for development projects.
They are laying the groundwork for developing an Urban Forest Master Plan for the city. Perazzo explains, “A couple of years ago the Tree Advisory Commission was looking at updating the tree ordinances but we realized we needed to look at our whole urban forest, we needed more data—to see what type of trees we have, to see where there are holes in the canopy — and then we can develop a plan and policies for the urban forest.”
This process will require help from additional staff to create a city tree map, starting with a GIS technician to enter data on tree location and species, and help from the community. Perazzo has already done outreach to the Master Gardeners for help in the future with mapping and identifying trees.
“We have had the street trees “pinpointed” and we have more than 25,000. We believe there are at least that many trees in our parks as well. We’ll need the community to help us gather data for the map and also help give input as the Urban Forest Master Plan is developed over the next two years.”
Perazzo concurs. “I think urban forestry needs to be included in the General Plan update. Woody and I are both Certified Arborists and we do this work because we care about trees and our community. The urban forest is a vital part of a sustainable community.”
Just as we depend on our trees for a beautiful and healthful place to live, our trees depend on us for their protection and care, now and into the future.
Actions you can take:
1. National Public Lands Day Planting, Saturday Sept. 28, 9 a.m. at Kennedy Park. To register, call (707) 257-9960.
2. Learn more at the Parks, Recreation, and Tree Advisory Commission meetings
3. Share your interest in including an Urban Forest Management Plan in Napa’s 2040 General Plan with the City of Napa General Plan Advisory Committee on Monday, Sept. 23, 5:30 p.m. Napa City Council chambers.
4. Report a problem with a street tree at the city’s online Service Center
5. Apply to plant a street tree at Street Tree Planting Application


Shipping Weight: 13.61 Kg
Date first available: March 20 2011
Kelp has been utilized within agriculture for centuries. GrowthMax™ is a soluble kelp complex derived from a potassium hydroxide extraction process. This refined kelp product provides ocean based compounds that can benefit our plants and soils. Containing nutrients including potassium, this formula can be used as a root drench or as a foliar spray application to bring the ocean into your garden.


Email: firstname.lastname@example.org Whatsapp: (+86)13391718082
Before the surge in outdoor dining spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, Thomas Little, a celebrated gardener, had already gained admiration in New York City. His exceptional curbside foliage displays have adorned the entrances of the city's trendiest restaurants and hotels, captivating guests with botanical wonders that transport them into a realm of natural beauty and allure.
Little's container gardens challenge traditional norms with their lush, unrestrained, and sometimes rebellious demeanor. Bursting with life and energy, they spill over onto the sidewalk in intricate patterns and vibrant explosions of green foliage. Upon closer inspection, one might observe a sweet potato vine creeping out of an abandoned tomato can, or a cluster of castor bean plants emerging from a weathered basket or rusty pail. It's as if nature has found nourishment in the discarded remnants of urban life, turning everyday objects into channels for remarkable growth and beauty.
Since childhood, Little has been captivated by nature's incredible capacity for growth, marveling at the transformation of tiny seeds into magnificent entities within mere months. This fascination with scale and verticality permeates his work, as he strives to craft environments that exude expansiveness and dynamism. Little's approach celebrates the allure of simplicity and imperfection, skillfully combining humble elements to form rich and visually captivating compositions. Renowned for his ability to orchestrate "managed chaos," he has garnered acclaim from leading design experts. These partnerships are fueled by a mutual dedication to creating spaces imbued with unique character and charm.
For those interested in incorporating Thomas Little's unique approach to creating enchanting outdoor spaces into their own homes, he generously offers guidance. Whether it's enhancing a front stoop, a rooftop deck, a suburban courtyard, or a porch or patio, Little is eager to share his expertise. He outlines his methodology in six key principles:
Crafting a welcoming outdoor space involves careful consideration of the home's aesthetic and the individuals who inhabit it. It's important to select elements that reflect your unique personality and narrative, contributing to a garden that feels truly personalized and meaningful.
Ensure to consider practical factors when selecting plants for your container garden. Assess the available space, light exposure, and water accessibility to determine the most suitable options. Avoid attempting to grow large plants in small containers, as this can hinder their growth. Proper maintenance is crucial for container gardens, particularly in terms of watering. Depending on the plant species and environmental conditions, you may need to water your container garden daily, especially during hot summer months. Additionally, as plants mature, they will require regular fertilization and increased water intake to support healthy growth.
Drawing from the expertise of acclaimed English gardener Penelope Hobhouse, Little advises a container gardening method that involves densely planting foliage. This technique, championed by gardening enthusiasts, encourages upward and outward growth, resulting in a flourishing and bountiful display of greenery. By optimizing space and embracing abundance, this approach offers a rewarding experience for both novice and seasoned gardeners alike.
He advises opting for fast-growing annuals like morning glory and passion flower, or enduring perennials such as grapevine and kiwi, to maximize space and enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor area.
Little recommends enhancing your garden's appeal by incorporating a variety of plant choices. Integrate evergreens for year-round charm, annuals for vibrant bursts of color and growth, and native species to support local biodiversity. This blend will result in a visually captivating garden while promoting eco-friendliness.
Little stresses the significance of diverging from consumerism, promoting the utilization of found objects as plant containers. According to Little, repurposing discarded items not only honors the environment but also adds uniqueness to our gardens. This practice reduces waste and promotes sustainability, contributing positively to our ecosystem.
While maintaining a tranquil demeanor, Little remains profoundly dedicated to his mission. He perceives gardening as a potent tool for reestablishing our bond with nature and nurturing empathy, particularly amidst the complexities of the COVID-19 pandemic and climate crisis.


Illuminate your yard with a stylish lighting that will provide you fun, relaxation, beauty, safety and security. Creative lighting will allow you to create a completely different look of your garden. In the warm summer days and evenings, you can spend quality time with friends on the balcony or in the garden. The external lighting can significantly brighten up the look of your yard, track or terrace in the warm evenings. For pleasant socializing in the evening on the terrace or in the garden, you can set up an interesting outdoor lighting, which will be fun and glamorous.
Consider for soft, subtle lighting for your flower beds, shrubs, deck or summer houses. Also, consider solar lights that are very effective and practical. It is very important to design the lighting and customize the theme of your garden. Depending on the topic, you can set up lanterns or lamps to be discreet or bright light and its elegant or rustic design contribute to more beautiful appearance of the exterior. But you don’t need to spend a lot money on that. We present you some interesting DIY outdoor lighting designs, that you can do by yourself. Check out our examples and create glamourous outdoor lighting!


National Parks Board (NParks) is responsible for enhancing and managing the urban ecosystems of our biophilic City in a Garden. We are the lead agency for greenery, biodiversity conservation, and wildlife and animal health, welfare and management. We are also actively engaging the community to enhance the quality of our living environment.
NParks manages more than 350 parks, 3,347 hectares of nature reserves, the Singapore Botanic Gardens, Pulau Ubin and the Sisters' Islands Marine park. Adding to this is the extensive roadside greenery, and the over 300 km Park Connector Network that links major parks, nature areas and residential estates island-wide. Every year, we run over 3,500 educational and outreach programmes across our various green spaces.
NParks has developed an urban biodiversity conservation model, which aims to conserve representative eco-systems in land-scarce Singapore. NParks also monitors and coordinates measures to enhance the presence of biodiversity in our urban landscape.
NParks is working closely with partners in the landscape, horticulture, veterinary and animal sectors to increase productivity, and provide training for all levels of the workforce. Enhancing competencies of the industry will support Singapore's vision of being a biophilic City in a Garden.
For more information, visit NParks website and Facebook.


We're The Good Guys
Your Friends Told You About™
Outdoor Faucet and Yard Hydrant Installation in Lynnwood, WA
Are you struggling with your backyard and garden? When you need to water the lawn, do you often find yourself tangled in a long, winding garden house? If that sounds right, you might want to consider installing an outdoor faucet or yard hydrant at your Lynnwood, WA, home.
These specialized water delivery systems resist freezing temperatures and can be installed in convenient locations around your house. Steve’s Plumbing can install an outdoor faucet or yard hydrant wherever you need it so you can get the most out of your yard.
Freeze Proof Outdoor Faucets
Our outdoor faucets, or hose bibb, attach to your home where plumbing is already located in the walls. These compression-style faucets replace run-of-the-mill garden fixtures with a more practical freeze-proof version.
To schedule hose bibb replacement service, please give us a call at (425) 451-2444.
Yard Hydrant Installation
Our yard hydrants offer a pressurized water line that connects to a private well or public water supply. All of our yard hydrants are self-draining when turned off to prevent freezing when the weather gets cold.
Steve’s Plumbing can install a yard hydrant wherever you need to provide maximum convenience.
Benefits of an Outdoor Faucet or Yard Hydrant Installation
An outdoor hose bibb or yard hydrant installed in a convenient location around your home can change your relationship with the outdoors. Suddenly, everything that was difficult to clean is now easily washed.
Your yard will be easier to water than ever before. Your garden will thrive with the increased attention you can now provide. Here are a few ways an outdoor hose bibb or hydrant can improve your life in the yard:
No More Lengthy Garden Hose Issues
It can be a real pain dealing with an extra-long garden house that’s wrapped around your house just to water the lawn. Think about the number of times you’ve tripped over a garden house while walking across your property.
With an outdoor faucet or yard hydrant, your water source will be right where you need it. With just a short hose attached to your faucet or hydrant, you can efficiently water your yard without dealing with the coiling mess of a massive hose.
Garden Drip Systems
With an outdoor faucet or hydrant installed in your yard, you can easily set up a garden drip system. A drip irrigation system will keep your soil moist, keeping your plants healthy and vibrant without wasting too much water.
Steve’s Plumbing Can Help Transform Your Yard
Steve’s Plumbing has been serving the greater Lynnwood, WA, area since 1995. That’s over 26 years of dedicated customer service! Our highly trained and experienced plumbers will work with you to resolve whatever plumbing needs you might have, from drain cleaning to faucet repair.
Contact us online or give us a call today to make an appointment for Outdoor Faucet and Yard Hydrant Installation services in Lynnwood or nearby.
Tired of Dealing With Drips?
Call Steve’s Plumbing at (425) 451-2444 Today!


About Us & Our Business
As Florida Natives, we are passionate about creating and enhancing the outdoor paradise experience that comes with the Florida lifestyle that we so cherish.
We love what we do, and are blessed to be able to create outstanding environments for our clients. We take incredible pride in every project no matter the size that is why we make sure to be on site for every job.
Our 10 year experience in creating amazing outdoor escapes combines with the quality of using synthetic palm thatch to guaranty many years of outdoor enjoyment. There is no other company or installer of artificial thatch that has more experience than we do.


We are a group of residents from various parts of Queens working to create a bicycle greenway connecting parks in our borough.
Sign our petition
We want to create a bike lane network connecting parks in Queens. From Astoria Park to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, including Socrates Sculpture Park and smaller parks in between.
We want the bike network clearly signalized and physically protected wherever possible, and a main route that is safe enough for a 10-year-old to ride.
Note: Our envisioning maps show possible routes. Final routes will be determined by NYC Department of Transportation after consultation with residents of each district.


Linn Creek, MO 573-480-6125
A high-quality wood or concrete deck can take your yard from pleasant to perfect. You'll love our guaranteed workmanship and friendly service, backed by over 17 years of professional experience. Your property will be left in good condition each day, whether you're laying a walkway or getting a pool installed. No job is too big or too small for Stokes Landscaping Design, LLC.
We are providing quality landscaping and hardscaping to the Camdenton and Lake Ozark area.
Patios and decks
Pool design and installation
Drainage and irrigation
Design and install decks – wood and concrete
You can count on our experts to provide you with skilled rock work for a yard feature that's low maintenance and enduring - or you can indulge in a soothing water feature! If you can dream it up, we can help you create it. Your satisfaction is our goal, which is why we offer convenient evening hours by appointment to help accommodate your schedule.
You'll enjoy a FREE estimate on all of your new hardscaping features!


The Plan to Restore the Meadowlands to Health (not Youth)
Mark Renna, Vice President of Environmental Sciences, The Louis Berger Group, Inc.
The restoration plan for the Meadowlands is not that dissimilar to a recovery plan for a sick patient. Ecosystem restoration concepts require detailed, specific technical analysis and assessment just as each organ system of the ailing human body needs evaluation and up-to-the-minute readings of all vital signs to develop a treatment plan that restores health. As we prepare to implement the Meadowlands-wide restoration plan, studies of specific ecosystem parameters and potential restoration sites will consume the attention of many scientists and engineers. The challenge will be to combine the data collected regarding systemic parameters with the restoration site designs and actions to result in a Meadowlands-wide restoration effort with measurable performance metrics. Recent Meadowlands estuarine restoration efforts will be presented as proven examples of potential concepts that could be applied regionally. Additionally, restoration of the degraded Meadowlands may take some experimentation using unproven technologies just as a patient with a rare and incurable disease may choose to undergo a new but risky treatment procedure.
Restoration performance metrics will be discussed in terms of the inescapable and pervasive degradation insults that plague the Meadowlands and threaten not only the success of restoration efforts, but also the initiation of such restoration efforts. Realistic restoration objectives and goals in the Meadowlands will be presented that take into consideration the extent of degradation, the restoration potential of specific Meadowlands sites, and restoration design limitations including engineering and scientific feasibility and economics. This presentation will outline the overall restoration plan approach for the Meadowlands and offer a means by which individual system studies and restoration actions can be coordinated to achieve an estuary-wide benefit that is self-sustaining.


Streetscape Master Plan
The Beach Village BIA, in partnership with the City of Toronto, commissioned PLANT Architect Inc. to complete a master plan to guide the development of the streetscape of Queen Street East between Lockwood Road and Neville Park Boulevard. The master plan built upon the priorities of a previous plan, completed in 2007, which identified the re-redevelopment of Kew Gardens frontage, as well as branded banner and seasonal planting programs; all which have been completed by the BIA. The intention is to renew, supplement, and expand on existing improvements to increase the vitality of the street.
See the full master plan below:


Our clients in Broadbeach Waters were sick and tired of the 80’s style patio area they had been dealing with for years. We extended the concrete slab and made way for some beautiful 600 x 600 tiles.
Scally Projects worked closely with the client on this project. The brief was to give the back pool area a modern makeover. We removed the old deck and started with a blank canvas.
With limited space and a small 2m x 2m under cover area Scally Projects created this split roof insulated Patio roof.


Your home and landscaping take center stage during the day while the sun is out, but during the night your most expensive and cared for investment is hiding in the dark. Exterior lighting adds both aesthetic and functional benefits to your home. Fortunately you've come to the right place for first-class service, and a system that will last you a lifetime!
What We Do
We come to your home to discuss your design, then create your quote with renderings, and meet once more to go over your project.
Our installation teams are ready to tackle even the most complex designs, using cutting edge equipment and techniques.
Helping you protect your investment for years to come to ensure your system always works like new and performs at its very best.
The Benefits of Landscape Lighting
The safety of your family and guests when outside or entering the home is a benefit of outdoor lighting. Home exteriors are full of potential dangers, like stairs, drop-offs, pools and tripping hazards; lighting near those hazards makes them visible to prevent injury. Lights that illuminate the driveway, walkways and house numbers allow visitors to find your home safely and with ease.
Illuminating your home's exterior will make your property less of a target for crimes like vandalism or burglary. Illuminating entrance points will make it difficult for a potential burglar to break in unnoticed. When using landscape lighting for security purposes, we consider the darkest areas of the yard and the places near the home and take that factor into account will designing a system.
Imagine extending your living areas by lighting your outdoor landscape. If you have a deck, patio, or garden with seating, decor, and foliage; create a warm and inviting feel with attractive lighting to enable you to use these elements after dark. The ambiance of outdoor areas can be pleasant and inviting, especially when you feature attractive outdoor lighting that will enhance the space.
Showcase and highlight specific areas of your landscape with decorative lighting. By installing uplights around your landscape in various spots, you pull the eye to these areas and display them attractively. Landscape lighting is an effective way to display planting areas or flower gardens. Install mood lighting along outdoor buildings to add pleasant splashes of light in your landscape. You can even add low-voltage exterior lights to trees and shrubs outdoors to illuminate planting areas and add beautiful accents to your exterior areas.
A well-lit home presents a cared-for impression to the entire neighborhood. Your house will appear warm and inviting as it sits beautifully on your property. In contrast to a dark and drab home, your illuminated home will draw people in and offer an inviting refuge for family and friends.
With a professionally installed system, buyers recognize the many benefits of outdoor lights when comparing different homes, giving you the right to set a higher asking price if your home boasts this feature. Remember, landscape lights installed by a licensed electrical business ensure proper installation and lighting placement for the best aesthetics. A typical 20 fixture system consumes approximately 100 watts of electricity, operating at 6 hours a night, costs +/- $0.072; getting a beautifully lit home each night for less than $0.10 a night.
Our Light Fixtures Feature
Need Some Help? Call (407) 924-4246
Our Process Includes


Finnoo and Kaitaa metro stations
Location: Espoo, Finland
Functions: Metro station
Scope: Architecture, Interior
Status: Completed 2022 (tendering competition 2012)
Client: Länsimetro Oy
The second phase of the extension of the West Metro line connecting Helsinki and Espoo involved the construction of five new stations, of which PES-Architects designed the Kaitaa and Finnoo stations.
In both areas, the new metro line link kicks off major urban development in the vicinity. The metro stations are not just transport hubs, but also recognisable landmarks in the rapidly developing and expanding new neighbourhoods. Each station has a distinctive identity encompassing the architecture and design details of both the station platforms and entrance buildings.
Original artwork was also commissioned for the stations to complement the architectural theme and highlight their local identity.
The design of the Finnoo station was inspired by the nature of the nearby seashore with its unique bird wetland, as well as the adjacent Siberian flying squirrel habitat.
The metal sheet cladding and glass surfaces of the facades of both entrance pavilions are printed with graphic patterns resembling the reeds and grasses of the wetland. Inside, the grass theme is strengthened by the greenish tint of the glazed concrete surfaces.
The underground platform has a distinctive, asymmetrical appearance. The undulating, green-blue metal cladding on the southern platform wall symbolises the sea, shore and wetlands. On the opposite wall, Leena Nio's work “Haavekuvia” (Dream images) features a marine theme, depicting details of the seaside cut into an aluminium sheet in a lace-like pattern.
In the Kaitaa station, the architectural theme is based on the green courtyards of the urbanising neighbourhood. The expanded mesh cladding evokes the foliage of trees, while the fair-faced concrete surfaces in the interior represent sturdy tree trunks.
The platform level is dominated by by Antti Tanttu's artwork “Juurtuminen” (Rooting), which extends the length of the platform walls as a graphically stylised network of roots. The theme refers to gradually settling down and taking root in a new neighbourhood.
All the station and shaft buildings feature green roofs that protect the roof from UV radiation and reduce temperature fluctuation and mechanical stress. They also aid in stormwater management and serve as a carbon sink, while providing a living environment for insects and birds.
The park and ride facilities of the stations feature extensive bicycle parking shelters.
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About the garden
Scotswood Natural Community Garden was established in 1995 on the site of a school playing field at what is now part of Newcastle College's facilities at the John Marley Centre. The garden covers somewhere between two and three acres. Like all good gardens, Scotswood is a mix of different parts. Three ponds attract a variety of wildlife and are home to frogs, toads, and three species of newt; including the rare Great-crested Newt.
Our forest gardens are some of the oldest in the country and provide a range of fruits, nuts and other food. Fruit is also produced in our orchard area. Some new growing areas were created in 2012 and being managed using Permaculture principles. The garden is recognised as a Land Project by the Permaculture Association, which means that we are part of a network of community gardens that shared expertise and encourage partnership working.
The garden also has two meadows, one managed for spring flowers, the other for summer flowers. We also have lots of willow growing on site and this is managed to produce materials that can be used for fencing and other structures. The garden also has a number of sculptures that have been installed over the years. The most recent of these were installed as part of a sculpture trail project in 2012.
Most of all, the garden is about people and we welcome visitors to enjoy the garden whenever they can. Admission is free and you can become more involved by becoming a member of the charity (also free). Our volunteers are an active group who contribute to a wide range of tasks throughout the year. We also provide lots of activities for young people of all ages. Please check our School Visits and Youth Work sections for further details.


Spruce Up Your Home Design with a Pergola From All States Home Improvement
Is it time to expand your home’s living area? Why not make use of the beautiful outdoors to add a little excitement to your design and lifestyle? While relaxing in the shade of a pergola, you can enjoy fresh breezes, read a book, and simply enjoy the pretty flowers in your garden. Pergolas are the perfect addition to your property, as they help boost your property’s character while providing a relaxing space outdoors. They offer a refuge from sun’s rays, as well as let in plenty of fresh air and lighting. You can install a pergola for many different activities, such as barbeque grills and outdoor dining.
Top Benefits of Installing a Pergola
One of the easiest and most effective ways to beautify your backyard is by adding a pergola. Let’s take a closer look at some of the benefits it can bring to your property:
- Weather Protection – If you’re avoiding your backyard because of a lack of protection from sun’s heat, then a pergola is the best solution to your problem. Aside from its construction specifically designed to provide shade, pergolas can also accommodate climbing plants, adding extra protection against the sun.
- Blocking Out Unsightly Views – You can strategically place a pergola to avoid unsightly views, such as a neighbor’s house or an old shed, and focus the attention on your picturesque landscape.
- Backyard Greening – Pergolas come with columns, as well as lattices and beams, where climbing plants can intertwine themselves. They can green up your garden in a way that only beautiful plants can provide.
Here at All States Home Improvement, we built pergolas on-site with cedar wood. Western Red Cedar is naturally resistant to insect damage, decay, and rot. It can also last for decades with minimal maintenance or none at all. The beautiful timbers can stand alone unfinished or finished, depending on your personal taste.
Design Your New Pergola Today
Our professional staff is well-trained to review your concerns and provide exact answers to your questions. We look forward to helping you decide which options would work best for your home. Call us today at (316) 444-1220 or (913) 800-5211 to get a FREE estimate! You can also complete our form, and we’ll get in touch with you right away.


We’re talking about roots & how they can affect the aesthetics of your lawn, as well as how big the root of the problem may be.
We specialize in stump grinding but don’t forget about the root of the problem. Tree roots often grow deep and wide but Full Circle Grinding takes care of the problem completely. Take a look at some of our complete root grinding projects.
If you recently cut down trees on your property you’ll want to have a clean nice finish so hire us to grind your remaining tree stumps and tree roots.


a new perspective
Inspired by the main rocks in my own backyard Zen garden, these little rock gardens are a big burst of color.
A Zen garden is a natural environment, built in miniature to provide an immersive and peaceful place to meditate. In our Zen garden, the boulders symbolize mountains or islands. The ripples that have been raked into the sand could be the terrain of foothills or the waves of water.
Painted in the style of Pop Art, you are forced to see a familiar scene in an unexpected way, just as meditation allows you to see your own situation from a different perspective.


Hardscape Landscape Design Birmingham Michigan
Hardscapes and stonework in Michigan are unique creations themselves and should be given ample attention when designing a backyard, garden or other home landscape.
At Superior Scapes of Shelby Township, Michigan, we understand that you want a unique hardscape to enhance your property. We specialize in hardscaping design and construction and can create truly beautiful works. We are experienced at working with a variety of stone types and tiles and will gladly customize a hardscape to suit your needs. Big, small, simple or complex, Superior Scapes of Shelby Township, Michigan will help you design your new hardscape and then build it to your precise specification.
Some recent hardscapes:
Some of our standard hardscape constructions include:
- Fire Pits
- Outdoor Kitchens
- Retaining Walls
- Flower/tree Borders
- Pieces for water gardens
- Decorative stonework
Landscape Design Build Maintenance in Michigan by Superior Scape, Inc. of Shelby Twp. – Serving Michigan’s Landscape Industry Since 1984 – Let Superior Scape Landscaping of Shelby Twp. MI transform you home or business into the perfect outdoor living space. FREE Consultation: 586.739.9630
Landscape Maintenance in Rochester, Rochester Hills, Bloomfield Hills, Birmingham, Shelby Twp., and surrounding areas by Superior Scape Landscape Maintenance of Shelby Twp., Michigan
Is your Landscape overgrown and in need of Landscape Maintenance?
Superior Scape can help! Lawn & Landscape Services:
- Cutting and Mowing
- Bed Management
- Pruning and Trimming
- Spring and Fall Cleanups
- Annual Plantings
- Outdoor Decorative Lighting
- Landscape Restoration
- Plantings, Flowers, Trees & Shrubs
COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING SERVICES
Full Service Landscape Design, Installation & Management. Superior Scape is all about creating Captivating Landscapes of Lasting Beaut With nearly 50 employees, including office staff, on-site foremen, laborers, designers, sales staff and equipment mechanic…Superior Landscape gets your job done!
Our mowers are cleaned and sharpened Regularly to ensure that your lawn receives the best cut, week after week. To improve the quality of your lawn, we adjust the height of the decks per lawn application to accommodate for environmental conditions.
Since every project is unique, this is only a basic list of the services that we provide. Depending on the needs of each client, we can obtain additional resources from other fields, as needed.
Landscaping Maintenance in Oakland and Macomb County Michigan Service Area:
Auburn Hills MI, Beverly Hills MI, Birmingham MI, Bloomfield Hills MI, Bloomfield Township MI, Clarkston MI, Lake Orion MI, Clinton Twp. MI, Franklin MI, Grosse Pointe Farms MI, Grosse Pointe Park MI, Grosse Pointe Woods MI, Macomb MI, New Baltimore MI, Oakland Twp. MI, Rochester MI, Rochester Hills MI, Shelby MI, Shelby Twp. MI, Sterling Heights MI, Troy MI, Utica MI, West Bloomfield MI
Call Today for a FREE Consultation: 586.739.9630


Always worth a visit is Rastatt's Favorite Castle and its twelve-hectare park in the district of Niederbühl-Förch. The idyllic landscape garden, landscaped with exotic plants, invites visitors to stroll, jog, picnic, relax, and take photographs.
The park was transformed into a green space in the style of a landscape park at the end of the 18th or beginning of the 19th century. The extensive park with old trees and the swan pond is a year-round attraction for visitors.
More info about the park and Favorite Castle.


In addition to producing drip tapes and braided pipes, Alborz Polymer Jey Co. also produces folding pipes with holes. In low pressure irrigation systems, these pipes are a suitable and inexpensive alternative to sprinkler and drip irrigation systems. These pipes are mainly consumed in agricultural fields, gardens, greenhouses, etc. for planting cereals, vegetables, summer crops, fodder, etc., and it can be moved and stored after the end of the planting season. The thickness of the produced pipes can be changed from 2.0 mm to 5.0 mm. The working pressure of these pipes is 0.1 to 6.0 atmospheres, which greatly reduces the side costs in designing the irrigation system. Variety in the design of nozzles, uniformity and type of water spray are other advantages of these pipes. The design of the nozzles can be changed according to the type of cultivation and the customer’s request. The effective width of water spray is from 5.2 to 8 meters. The use of the above pipes is associated with a 50 to 80 percent reduction in labor, a 40 to 80 percent reduction in water consumption, a 50 percent reduction in fertilizer use, and a 10 to 30 percent increase in the crop yield.
SEPAHAN POUYEH CO. SPRINKLER IRRIGATION FOLDING PIPE FEATURES• Uniformity in water spraying
• Quick installation and reassembly
• Light weight
• Resistant to the sun’s ultraviolet rays
• Variety in work pressure, color, length and thickness based on customer needs
• Variety in the design of water nozzles according to the type of cultivation
• Significant reduction in cost compared to other irrigation methods


The Designers at Bush Home Services have more than a decade of combined experience designing and installing ponds and waterfalls. Water features can be broken into two categories, ponds and pondless.
A pond is your traditional water feature that has a pond (basin of water) with a stream or waterfall that falls in to it. A pond is desired primarily when fish or koi are wanted.
A pondless is a stream and waterfall that is recirculated without the pond (basin of water). A pondless gives the tranquil sound of moving and falling water without the maintenance of a pond. Come see our ponds and pondless at our Outdoor Design Center. We also have DIY kits available in our store.
Our water feature designer service areas include Aripeka, Hernando Beach, Inglis, Yankeetown, Rainbow Springs, Citrus Hills, Citrus Springs, Black Diamond, Pine Ridge, Sugarmill Woods, Brooksville, Spring Hill, Weeki Wachee, Inverness, Dunnellon, Lecanto, Beverly Hills, Hernando, Crystal River, Wildwood, Floral City, Beverly Hills, Hernando, Homosassa, Ocala and surrounding cities.
Call us today for more information about our services in your area!


The Benefits of Professional Landscaping Services
Having a well-maintained and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space can significantly enhance the overall appeal and value of your property. However, achieving the perfect landscape requires time, effort, and expertise that not everyone possesses. That is where professional landscaping services come in. Hiring a team of professionals can offer numerous benefits and transform your outdoor space into a beautiful sanctuary. In this article, we will explore the advantages of hiring professional landscaping services.
Firstly, professional landscapers have the knowledge and expertise to design and create a landscape that suits your specific needs and preferences. They understand the importance of harmonizing different elements such as plants, hardscapes, and water features to create a visually stunning and functional outdoor space. Whether you have a small backyard or a large commercial property, professional landscapers can customize their services to meet your individual requirements.
Secondly, hiring professionals can save you a significant amount of time and effort. Landscaping is a time-consuming task that requires regular maintenance, including mowing, weeding, pruning, and fertilizing. By entrusting these responsibilities to professionals, you can free up your time to focus on other important aspects of your life. Moreover, professional landscapers have the necessary tools and equipment to complete the job efficiently and effectively.
In addition to saving you time and effort, professional landscaping services can also save you money in the long run. While the initial cost of hiring professionals may seem like an expense, it can actually be a wise investment. Professional landscapers have access to high-quality materials, plants, and equipment at competitive prices. They can recommend the most cost-effective solutions and prevent expensive mistakes that DIY landscapers often make. Furthermore, a well-maintained landscape adds value to your property and can attract potential buyers or tenants if you ever decide to sell or rent.
Lastly, professional landscapers can provide regular maintenance and upkeep for your landscape, ensuring that it remains in pristine condition throughout the year. They have a deep understanding of plants and their specific requirements, such as watering, pruning, and fertilizing. They can also identify and address any potential issues, such as pest infestations or diseases, before they become more serious and costly to fix. With their expertise, professional landscapers can keep your outdoor space looking lush, healthy, and vibrant.
In conclusion, hiring professional landscaping services offers numerous benefits that go beyond just enhancing the visual appeal of your outdoor space. From their expertise in design and implementation to saving you time, money, and effort, professional landscapers can transform your landscape into a beautiful and functional oasis. So, if you want to enjoy a stunning outdoor space without the hassle of doing it yourself, consider hiring professional landscaping services.


Lovely living extends to the outdoors when the days are longer and the sun begs us to soak up its rays a little longer. Outdoor spaces are so very much a part of your living space. Just like your home it also is a reflection of who you are. Creating elegant outdoors is about designing a space that is inviting and comfortable…just as comfortable as your living room. It is a space that will be an extension of where you entertain, or relax. There is nothing like the memories of enjoying the outdoors in a space that is perfectly designed for you.
When thinking of your garden personalize the space by incorporating elements that instantly gives a sense of relaxation and calm. Water elements like fountains and decorative pool are quite soothing. Shade trees for lazy carefree afternoons of sipping ice tea and reading books are always a draw for comfortably enjoying the outdoors. To create an air of luxe simplicity, keep the furnishings and details to a minimum. If you care for a more modern look for your outdoor space, choose sleek pieces like sturdy weather resistant tables and chairs to welcome conversations and impromptu dinners. Add a light source for creating a cozy atmosphere for wonderful nights of stargazing. After all isn’t that what summer nights are all about?


The majority of people live in the middle of urban areas, mostly in apartments. With the limited living spaces, we tend to feel a bit crowded at times. Having a living plant in your home livens up the place and brings more warmth and freshness. Whether you have a green thumb or not, it is always nice to put some greenery in your home, or even better, out on the balcony. Having a balcony, a terrace, or even a ledge that extends from the apartment to the outside is a luxury most apartments don’t have. If you’re one of the lucky ones with a balcony and you are looking for ways to make your home even more pleasing and relaxing without using up too much of your space, maybe it’s time to start thinking about getting some balcony planters and beautiful plants to go in them.
Before you start your journey on creating your little piece of nature on your balcony or are looking to update the one you already have, make sure you’re allowed to do so. Depending on where you live, you might have a tenants association or some building rules that don’t allow having items on the balcony rails or hanging from them on the outside. If that’s not the case, then you’re good to go.
When choosing a planter or flower box for your balcony, keep in mind how much space you have to work with, also how many and what kind of plants you plan to have. Deciding on what your green place of peace would look like isn’t always as easy as you might think. There’s a wide variety of planters to choose from, from their size and material to the way they can be placed.
To make your choice a bit easier, we made this list of some of the most beautiful and interesting flower boxes we could find and give you an idea of what y
- 1 Colored Hanging Flower Boxes And A Big Floor Planter
- 2 Small Hanging Tiered Planters
- 3 Hayrack Planter
- 4 Flower Box With Trellis
- 5 Hanging Crates
- 6 Hanging Planters And Mini Picket Fence Garden
- 7 Iron Railing Planter
- 8 Sunny Winter Planter
- 9 Wicker Planter
- 10 Glass Railing Planters
- 11 Corner Planter
- 12 Planter And Table
- 13 Small Handrail Planters
- 14 Tellis Hanging Planters
- 15 Large Planter Boxes As Balustrades
- 16 Demilune Planters
- 17 Adjustable Railing Planter
- 18 Marble Planters
- 19 Flower Box Privacy
Colored Hanging Flower Boxes And A Big Floor Planter
Wooden planters tend to cost a pretty penny, but they’re also very easy to make from scratch or as a cover over a regular plastic planter. Hanging the planters vertically saves yous pace and gives the plants more sunlight and air. On the other hand, it frees up more space so you can make a very big planter along the side of the railing that will serve as a privacy screen and additional planting space.
Small Hanging Tiered Planters
If you’re starting with keeping plants for the first time, succulents are a great place to start. They’re resilient and need very little care. The downside is that they’re small. To cover more balcony areas with fewer succulents, you can use tiered planters like these. And the natural wood they’re made of add to the warmer, more natural look.
There is something very endearing about these country-style house feeder-type racks that attract the eye and make the flowers planted in them look even more beautiful. Whatever it is, these types of planters would work well for your balcony railings, to hang them on the balcony wall, or even place them on your window sill.
Flower Box With Trellis
Big planters are great for filling up that small niche in your balcony. To fill up the space even more, get a big planter with a trellis. You can plant some vines that will weave through it and give you even more easy-to-maintain greenery.
Wooden crates are often used in industrial or rustic home decor, and they can be quite versatile, even used as planters. hang them up with planter hooks or straps of leather or some belts on either side of the balcony railing to get that same easy rustic look.
Hanging Planters And Mini Picket Fence Garden
This is an adorable idea if you have the space for it. Put your potted plants in a line along the bottom of the railing and put a small picket fence in front of them. It will look like you have a small patch of garden. As for the bigger planters, you can choose some in different colors or paint the ones you already have and hand them on the wall, on the rows of small planks, that will match the theme of the picket fence.
Iron Railing Planter
The beauty and convenience of railing planters are that you don’t need special planters to put in them so that they’ll look good. You can place your existing wide planters in them or put a lot of smaller ones, and they’ll still look amazing on your balcony.
Build-In Planters With Sitting Area
For most of us, the reason we would want some plants on our balcony is to have a calming place to sit outside the home. So maybe you’re looking for a way to make the place a bit more comfortable and perhaps with a more modern, streamlined look than an actual garden? Here is a very nice solution. The entire balcony space is covered with wooden planks, flowing into the small bench and planters along the railing, for a clean and modern, yet natural look.
Did you like the idea of the mini-picket fence garden, but you don’t have enough room to make it? Here’s the perfect alternative. A planter that looks like a picket fence that you can hang on your railing or outside the window. And you can paint it in any color or colors you like.
Sunny Winter Planter
Wooden, iron, or plastic planters are all well and good for warm weather when the flowers are in full bloom, but what would you enjoy in the winter? A cheerful yellow planter, resistant to the elements, planted with evergreens is just what you might need for a relaxing warm winter day with hot cocoa in hand.
Want to keep things more natural and rustic? You can’t go wrong with a wicker planter. They truly do have a timeless appeal.
Glass Railing Planters
A lot of modern apartments have balconies with glass panels as balustrades. They’re good for letting more light in, but can be tricky when you want to hang some planters on them. But this is a very ingenious solution. You’ll both keep the light coming through and your plants will be visible and protected from all sides, almost like in a terrarium. You just need to place an additional glass panel and you’ll have room in between for your plants.
We often forget to utilize the dead space in corners, and even when we do, there’s still some space left. You certainly won’t have that problem with this planter.
Planter And Table
Good space management is very important for balcony decor, and avoiding too much clutter is essential. So there might come a moment when you have to choose between a small table or a big planter. Well, now you have both, with this gorgeous design where you have a foldable table on the side of the planter. Much better than putting a potted plant on the table, don’t you think?
Small Handrail Planters
Handrail planters are another design that is supposed to optimize space, by having the plants on both sides of the rail, yet in one planter. They tend to be quite chunky, but this smaller version will certainly meet your needs for a small railing or for hanging them outside without bumping into them whenever you step outside on the balcony.
Tellis Hanging Planters
We showed you one example of using a planter with a trellis so you can grow wines. However, you can also hang a trellis on your balcony wall and use it as a decorative hanger for some potted plants. And you can even extend it to the ceiling and use it for hanging more plants or other things.
Large Planter Boxes As Balustrades
This is a very fine idea for creating an outdoor area that’s completely cut-off from the rest of the world without closing off the space with privacy screens and alike. Large textured planters for small trees along the rails or serving as rails themselves. It will completely transform your balcony, for sure and you’ll have all the greenery you want all year round.
Demilune planters are half of your favorite hand-crafted, Greek-Roman style urns and planters. Literally. They’re meant to save space while keeping the beauty and aesthetic of the real thing. And they’re quite durable as well.
Adjustable Railing Planter
Don’t you just hate it when you buy something, anything, and it turns out it doesn’t fit? Not all railings are the same and not all railing planters and hanger planters are the same as well. Sometimes your railing is too wide, or too narrow for the planter to be placed properly. That won’t be a problem if you get one of these planters with adjustable hooks. And they look absolutely gorgeous with the natural wood.
If you’re going for a more modern look, you might consider getting a marble planter or one with a marble pattern. It does bring some earthy balance to the warm nature of the plants and gives out a more masculine look.
Flower Box Privacy
For our last balcony flower box idea, we give you another way to use large planters to keep the prying eyes from the nosy neighbors away. A few chunky, tall planters on one side of the balcony and some selected plants, and you can lounge on your balcony in complete privacy.
That’s all the ideas we have for now. We hope you found inspiration and got some new ideas from our list that you will use for your own balcony garden project. What is your favorite way to liven up your balcony or home? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments.


Comprised of land in Needham and Newton, this 23-acre reservation is book ended by the massive Echo Bridge and the…More smaller waterfalls that encompass the gorge. The park's name derives from the abundance of Hemlock trees that dot the landscape.
The granite and brick Echo Bridge that stands above the Charles River was originally constructed in 1877 by the Boston Water Works. At the time, it was the second largest masonry arch in the country. Visitors today can walk across the bridge, gaining a view of the Charles below.
The park is open year round from dawn to dusk. Parking can be found on Hamilton Place.
The Great Places in Massachusetts Commission named Hemlock Gorge as one of its 1,000 places to visit in Massachusetts.


Gardens and landscapes have long been designed as retreats from the stresses of life – from urban green spaces in major cities to the humble suburban backyard. The recent growth in community gardens has also shown that gardening can have a therapeutic effect on the community.
Today, community gardens have become places where the people in a community are able to come together to grow food, promote good health and nutrition, create green urban or town environments, support whole of life learning and cultivate vibrant communities.
Growing with the times
But there is nothing new about community gardens. Gardening on public land dates back to the early 19th century when the British Government allocated plots of land to the poor to grow vegetables and flowers. Since then, they have continued to flourish in some form. From the victory gardens of war-torn times, to large-scale modern greening projects and small kerbside or verge gardens, community gardening has always adapted to the requirements of the community.
In Australia, community gardens started with people working together in response to war and food shortages. The modern iteration of community gardening began with Melbourne’s Nunawading in 1977, followed in 1985 in Sydney, with community gardening at Callan Park in Rozelle. From these early beginnings, community gardens became increasingly popular and now some community gardens are so popular they have long waiting lists, highlighting the strong demand for people to become involved.
Gardens bring together people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and ages to foster a lively and connected community.
Bringing people together
Community gardens have been recognised as an innovative way to grow food and improve health. Social connectedness is also a key feature of community gardening. They bring together people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and ages to foster a lively and connected community.
Transforming an unused plot of land into productive community hubs is just one of the benefits of community gardening. These neighbourhood groups develop a shared passion for fresh produce and work together to learn and share knowledge of growing food, help reduce family food budgets and provide opportunities for exercise, recreation and learning, as well as being spaces for contemplation and relaxation.
Community gardens point the way to living sustainably in an urban environment, demonstrating waste minimisation, composting and water-usage techniques that can be used by people in their own homes.
How to start a community garden
There are now many ways for a community to start a community garden. Forming a group and locating and securing a suitable site sometimes takes a while, but there are now many great examples to assist with that.
Gardens are usually located on vacant public land, which can be donated by local councils or other organisations under various lease arrangements. They can be sited in schools, universities, parks, cul-de-sacs, vacant lots, rooftops, verges or nature strips, or retirement homes – indeed anywhere there is a large enough space with good access, adequate sun and a water supply.
There is no one way to set up or run a community garden. Each has its own particular character depending on the people participating, garden size and design, the environment, what’s grown and how the garden is managed.
The Australian City Farms and Community Garden Network is a great resource for all new community gardeners and groups looking to start a garden. They can be found at communitygarden.org.au.


What is a rain garden?
- A rain garden is a plan pond - a garden bed that you plant with special deep-rooted species. These plants help the water rapidly seep into the soil and away from your house. the rainwater is directed from the downspouts to the
garden via a swale (a stone channel) or plastic piping. The garden captures the water and drains it into the soil within a day.
How to build a rain garden?
- Build swales to channel runoff from the gutters and higher parts of the yard. The water is then absorbed into the soil through the networks of deep plant roots.
- Build a berm in a low spot in the yard. Minimum slope of 1 inch (2 percent) for water to flow into your rain garden.
- Grow a mix of plants adapted to your area and to the different water depths.
What benefits does a rain garden provide?
- Reduces the amount of lawn chemicals and pet wastes that may otherwise run off into local lakes and rivers.
- Absorbs 20%, on average, more rainwater than conventional lawns.
- Reduces drainage problems.
- Replenishes groundwater resources.
- Protected structures and landscaping.
- Can cut down on the amount of pollution reaching creeks and streams by up to 30%.
- Provides wildlife habitat.
- Enhances the beauty of yards.
- Reduces wet or damp basements, the need for sump pumps and the prevalence of muddy puddles in your after a heavy rainfall.
How big should the rain garden be?
- Calculate the rough area of the roof that drains down the spout.
- A 2.400 sq.-ft. rectangular home with a downspout at each corner would have approximately 600 sq. ft. of runoff going to each downspout.
- Multiply by rainfall depth (1 in.) to get the volume of water - 50 cu. ft. in this case.
- If your soil porosity can handle a 6-inches deep garden bed, dividing by 1/2 ft. gives you a 100-sq. ft. (10 x 10 ft.) garden size.
What to plant?
- On the higher edges of the garden bed, position plants that thrive in "average to dry" water conditions.
- In the deepest parts of your garden, choose plants that have "average to moist" water requirements.
- Moisture-loving plants will not thrive in your garden because it is designed to drain all water in 24 hours.
Creeklife: www.creeklife.com | Sources: The Family Handy Man - Rain Garden How to Build; http://en.wikipedia.org/Rain_garden; http://www.aacounty.org/DPW/Highways/Resources/Ringarden/Rain_Gardens_MD_Coastal_Plain.pdf;


This slow-growing fungus usually appears as a hard growth on the outside of yellow and white birch trees, and can grow to about 15 to 20 inches in size. It grows at a slow rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live to a ripe old age of 100 years or more; think of this as a heritage tree for future generations! Japanese White Birch (Betula platyphylla 'Japanica') View Photos/a.collectionRF / Getty Images This species, also known as Asian white birch, is a medium to large tree with white bark and thin spreading branches that terminate in drooping branchlets. Japanese larch is a sun-loving, deciduous conifer native to Japan. Good white bark with dark green leaves turning yellow in the fall. Featuring an elegant, pyramidal habit, it bears ovate, toothed, lime-green leaves, 3 in. Foliage turns golden in late fall. This plant has some cultivated varieties. Japanese White Pine will grow to be about 40 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 40 feet. Just to mention, at Chaga.ca, we harvest our Chaga in the Canadian forests, where the abundance of healthy trees and the cold weather creates an environment that’s highly favorable for Chaga growth. Sun Preference Full sun and partial shade are best for this tree, meaning it prefers a minimum of four hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. Betula platyphylla, commonly called Japanese white birch, is a medium to large sized tree noted for its white bark, thin spreading branches and slightly pendant branchlets. Will tolerate temperatures of -30 to 120 deg. Common name: Paper Birch Latin name: Betula papyrifera Type of tree: Deciduous Size at maturity: 18m tall, 11m Spread Growth rate: fast Best growing conditions: Full sun only, does best on well drained sandy or silty loam soils.Needs some protection from wind. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 5 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. This tree grows best in medium to wet, well-drained, sandy or rocky loam. Growth Rate This tree grows at a medium to fast rate, with height increases of anywhere from 13" to more than 24" per year. Japanese white pine is a dense, slow-growing evergreen with a smaller stature which makes it an excellent specimen for small landscapes or space restrictions. The 70-foot-high pyramidal tree has slender, pendulous branches, and clusters of bright green needles that turn a … Things to love: A highly recognizable tree with creamy white bark and delicate foliage.They attract a variety of wildlife, especially birds Soil Preference The paper birch grows well in acidic, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained and clay soils. Go to list of cultivars. It is valued for its environmental adaptability and high resistance to Bronze Birch Borer under a good fertility program. long (7 cm), with some golden-yellow fall color before they shed for the winter. An outstanding columnar Asian White Birch with dense, dark-green summer fo-liage and attractive white bark. Growth Rate: Moderate: Shape: Upright, Pyramidal : Whitespire Japanese Birch likes full sun and is adapted to a wide range of soils.


Later on today I plan to go to the bottom of the grass patch in the garden and dig it all over. The majority of the grass is either dead or just dirt, so there isn’t any reason not to.
This will also be the area that I will use to plant for this year, so will also incorporate some manure into the area.
The biggest problem will be to stop the pest from digging it up.
Also known as Tilly, the 2 year old Jack Russell Terrier, who loves digging in the garden.


Now is the perfect time to start prepping your Foxbank Plantation garden in Moncks Corner for those Lowcountry spring and summer blossoms.
We know what you’re thinking, “but I don’t know the first thing about gardening!”
Luckily, you don’t have to have a green thumb to have a beautiful garden. Aside from watering your plants diligently, making sure you have planned and prepped your garden effectively will make a huge different. And it will get you one step closer to have the garden of your dreams.
Step 1: Lay it out
First things first, you need to have a plan. Know which plants you want to have in your garden and which ones work best in your area. If you want blooms all year long, consider planting a mix of annuals and perennials. Also, where you put your plants is important. Arrange them by height so the bigger plants don’t block the sunlight from the smaller plants and make sure they are spaced far enough apart that their roots don’t get tangled.
Step 2: Clean it up
Chances are, you probably didn’t do very much garden maintenance during the winter months. Which means that your garden is probably filled with dried leaves and debris. Start by clearing all of this out and cutting back any old/dead growth on your current plants. Remove any plants you no longer want in your garden and give yourself a completely clean slate to work from.
Step 3: Prep your soil
After you’ve cleared your garden, it’s time to get to work on the soil. Loosen it up with a garden hoe or fork, removing any rocks or dead roots that may be lying around. This will help dry out and warm up your soil, which will, in turn, allow the roots of your plants to penetrate the soil more easily. Sprinkle fertilizer on top for good measure.
Step 4: Prep your tools
A gardener is only as good as the tools he or she uses, so make sure that your tools are in tip top shape. Wash them with soap and warm water and pat them dry. Then, if needed, sharpen them. Taking the time to take care of your tools will help preserve them and save you money in the long run.
Step 5: Keep it up
Once you have planted your garden, it is important to maintain it. Make sure you are tending to your plants regularly, keeping an eye out for anything that may keep them from maturing, i.e. insects, weeds, lack of sunlight, etc. One of the best things you can do is add mulch to your garden in late spring. This will help hold down weeds while retaining water for long summer days. Then it will break down over the fall and winter months and add much-needed nutrients to the soil.


Whilst knocking out a wall to create a huge open plan kitchen is a great way to add value to your property, there are also lots of beneficial garden features that will also do the trick. People want their homes to be beautiful from the inside out, which means the gardens need to reflect the beauty that lays within. In order to enhance your garden and really give it the wow factor, you need to consider adding at least one of the following garden features into the mix. From ponds to fountains, these bold garden features are guaranteed to bring your home’s value up by your next valuation.
One of the easiest and possibly cheapest ways to add value to your property is to introduce some stylish storage to your outdoor areas. There are so many great ways to add storage to your garden, so it’s really easy to find the style that works for you. The most popular form of garden storage is the garden shed. Working as a kind of extension to the garage, the garden shed provides you with a spacious area to keep a range of products stored, from garden furniture and children’s toys to gardening equipment that takes up too much space in the garage. You can also look at introducing garden storage boxes like the ones you can get from Argos and other home stores.
Wonderful Water Features
If you really want to add the wow factor to your garden, then introducing a water feature is the perfect option for you. Water features instantly create a bold focal point within the garden that will add a unique touch filled with character. The most popular form of water feature for the garden is a pond, which can be created in any shape or size, depending on your garden itself. Ponds are perfect for creating a unique display in the garden, whilst also helping the environment at the same time. Bradshaws Direct have a huge selection of essential pond features, so if you’re looking to start out with your own pond you’ll be able to find just what you need there. Other bold water features include fountains, which can be slightly harder to incorporate into the garden, but still have a really positive effect on the overall aesthetic. Whether you have a small fountain built up from the rockery in the garden, or you decide to go for a full pump that creates more of an impact, you can create a really bold touch that will instantly transform your garden.
Throwing garden parties and having family BBQ’s are only two of the many exciting things you can do with a practical, stylish garden. By introducing an area that makes it easy for you to entertain, you’ll instantly make your garden more admirable and interesting to potential buyers. Being able to have your friends and family around and entertain in the garden is a huge benefit, so it’s really important to have some kind of entertaining space. Some great ways to create this kind of space are introducing decking to your garden, a solid patio area or even some stone slabs to create a solid ground surface for use all year around. Similarly, you want to look at adding a barbeque, fire pit and some durable outdoor furniture to make the area as welcoming and relaxing as possible.


When homeowners plan home remodelling projects, they often hit a snag choosing between DIY methods and hiring experts. While some simple projects don't require much expertise, tools or machinery, adopting DIY practices can save more money.
However, the installation of a new retaining wall is often elusive to many homeowners. While some people may attempt DIY approaches on such projects, they end up failing terribly. This post goes over the landscaping construction options you have when installing a retaining wall.
The Required Construction Materials
Installing retaining walls is a construction project that involves heavy materials. Whether it's concrete pavers or natural stone, these materials are cumbersome and too large to handle individually. You may also need large quantities of sand and gravel to use onsite.
Running this project using DIY methods can be difficult, risky and arduous. For this reason, you'll need to hire retaining wall contractors who have the necessary tools and equipment to lift the heavy materials.
Heavy Equipment Required Is Costly and Difficult to Operate
Unless you plan to use an excavator, moving soil, sand, concrete and heavy stones will require special equipment. While you can still rent the needed equipment, you'll need to have enough experience operating the machinery. However, hiring retaining wall contractors is easier as they come equipped with all the equipment necessary for the work.
You Only Learn Some Techniques by Practising Daily
One unique niche skill is landscaping construction. Therefore, there are some skills you can only learn by doing retaining wall installations daily. Most homeowners do not have the time to practise these skills daily. Besides, countless retaining wall designs exist today.
You can end up spending thousands of dollars and valuable time on DIY methods only to end up with bellow par, unsatisfactory results. However, hiring qualified retaining wall contractors can save you all the hustle. They are highly-skilled and experienced so they can complete the project successfully, affordably and on time.
Repeat Installation and Repairs Can Be Costly
Most DIY projects can result in mistakes that are expensive to fix. For instance, choosing the wrong paint for your living room can be horrible, but it's a simple fix. But poorly installing your retaining wall can cause more problems that are difficult to repair. As a result, this can only make the entire project more expensive and complicated.
Ensure you hire the right retaining wall contractor who has the tools and expertise necessary to prevent these intricacies. A durable, well-installed retaining wall will serve you for many years without requiring frequent repairs.
Always consider these four crucial aspects when weighing your options between DIY and professional retaining wall contractors.
For more information, contact a residential retaining wall contractor.


Your garden is growing beautifully. The purple stepping stones look great.
the purple make the flowers really POP, so many different petals.
Beautiful, beautiful. Those blue stepping stones are lovely.
Your garden is beautiful. The purple stepping stones really make the colorful flowers stand out.
The purple stepping stones are different from any I've seen but they really set off your flowers beautifully!
WOW the purple setpping stones. Your flowers are beautiful.
Your setting with the purple is inspired! Looking forward to watch your garden continue to grow! Becky G
what a beautiful contrast with the choice of purple, really unique and strking.
Such a happy flower garden, I so love the purple stepping stones!
A very pretty garden, I love purple. You are almost finished.Have a wonderful week.Blessings, Brook
Wow! Almost done. Very nice garden.
Another scrappy flowered quilt - yay! Love the purple.
Very beautiful! I like the pink center of the flowers and the purple stepping stones.
I love the purple stepping stones. Your garden is growing beautifully.
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Queens Park and Botanic Gardens ToowoombaVisit Website
Our Beautiful Big Outdoors / Attractions and Tours / Queens Park and Botanic Gardens Toowoomba
State Heritage-listed Queens Park and Botanic Gardens opened to the public in the late 1800s. A variety of community activities and annual events are hosted here, including the famous Carnival of Flowers and the signature Flower, Food and Wine Festival. The parkland has three distinct areas, namely Queens Park Botanic Gardens, Vera Lacaze Memorial Park and Queens Park’s greater park area.
43 Lindsay St Toowoomba Queensland 4350
queens park toowoomba


…but the demarcation line really is Labor Day, isn’t it? I did the Facebook cover photo seasonal change, and I thought those of you not on Facebook might like to see the photo, too. This was shot late last fall from the native plant garden at the New York Botanical Garden in the Bronx.
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You knew I was going to have to do it, didn’t you? This is the NYBG corpse flower cam.
Expected bloom Sunday or Monday, and the Garden, which is not open Mondays, will be open this one. Just sayin’.


Project “Regional Development of Bor”
Public Works: Arrangement of public spaces in Šarbanovac village, Bor Munisipality
Source of funding: IBRD 7464 through the Ministry of Economy and Regional Development, Republic of Serbia
Description: These public works included clearing and landscaping the riverbed, from the bridge in the center of Šarbanovac Timok upstream, in the length of 2 kilometers, on both sides of the river and from the bridge downstream toward Selište, 6 kilometers in length.
Recruited 18 unemployed. Duration of project was 3 (three) months.


Why and When You Need to Consider Underground Detention
Stormwater management considerations are an essential part of the site choice and development process – and can affect the long-term worth of a property. In reality, the majority of land development projects above one acre need stormwater management systems, thus it is imperative to be acquainted with the available options and their pros and cons.
Stormwater management is traditionally performed on the surface with a pool that controls the amount of water that can be released typically below or at historic flow rates. One option is to make an underground detention system. It’s more often utilized in developments where land costs, land availability, and parcel limitations do not permit the development of surface stormwater.
It is crucial to consider why and when it is appropriate to install above-ground versus underground systems to maximize the long-standing real estate worth of properties.
Why go underground?
The major reason to go for underground detention is the ROI on the worth of the increased land or edifice capture. There are increased capital expenses initially when contrasted with a surface solution; however, underground detention offers more outdoor storage as well as the opportunity for larger parking lots and increased building sizes. Underground detention is also a good alternative for high-density, urban regions that have limited spaces, oddly shaped parcels, or marketplaces where land costs more.
Benefits of underground stormwater detention
Apart from the land capture expenses, other advantages include insulation from freezing and increased public safety, unlike the cases with ponds and other ground surface stormwater BMPs. Finally, the most obvious advantage of underground stormwater detention solutions is the aesthetic, particularly on dense sites. Usually, surface BMPs are situated in tight regions that do not offer enough relief to make these ground installations appear like a natural, aesthetically good-looking element to the project.
Crucial considerations when implementing an underground stormwater detention solution include:
Long-term maintenance – such as accessibility and creating a robust operations plan.
Placement of the underground storage solution – this is particular to the site as well as how it’s interacting with the downstream storm sewer, existing and proposed utilities, drive lanes, landscape areas, and parking.
Alternative water quality treatment requirements – this could be necessary with an underground stormwater detention system to account for water quality elements of the site, usually incorporated in underground structures.
Jurisdictional support – this is exceedingly imperative at the start of a task. Some underground detention system sellers gain from having pre-approved solutions within their respective jurisdictions.
And last but not least, it is vital to work with a veteran land development civil engineering company that knows the jurisdictional allowances along with a good relationship with the installers and suppliers of the real solution that’ll be implemented. The experience element of the company helps precisely define the cost early and impacts the decision of whether to go underground or proceed with the project.
There are different design options to evaluate when buying a stormwater solution, the reason you should evaluate them so as to get one that will achieve your site’s development goals.


Composite Permeable Pavers are a superior alternative to concrete permeable pavers. Combined with an open-graded base, permeable pavers can reduce runoff-generating impervious cover and decrease the rate and quantity of runoff. Paver joints are filled with small stones. This composite material imparts deep colors, excellent slip resistance and unbeatable strength.
Manufactured using 100% post-industrial waste from local countertop manufacturers that has historically gone into our landfills. All waste from the production of EarthStone products gets ground into aggregate for use in roadbeds. Ideal for low impact developments as a recycled alternative to traditional pavers. EarthStone can earn LEED credits. Low VOC for interior flooring. Granite pavers are tumbled to give them a textured, non-slip surface that can be finished with a sealer or left natural.
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Maritime Plaza & Heritage Gardens
The Wisconsin Maritime Museum intends to develop approximately 20,000 square feet of asphalt parking lot in the northeast corner of the property into a maritime heritage plaza and garden. By providing a public space to showcase maritime themed artifacts, coupled with a gathering space for educational or entertainment events, it will enliven the Franklin Street corridor. The multi-functional space will be suitable for an outdoor classroom, craft/farmers markets, and a performing arts venue. This proposed maritime heritage garden outside the museum’s storage facility will become an added experience for visitors to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum and a significant enhancement to downtown Manitowoc.
Bounded by Franklin Street on the North, 12th Street on the east, and the existing storage facility on the south and west sides of the project site, this project will incorporate multiple improvements into this one public space. These include: Asphalt removal, stormwater remediation, regrading and hard scaping the plaza area, benches and seating areas, multiple planting areas and trees, assembling and interpreting several oversized maritime artifacts, public archaeology interpretation with Captain Carus’ house foundation, Carus Collection photographic mural, new lighting, outdoor classroom space, event venue, improved accessible parking, exterior improvements to the adjacent building (owned by the Wisconsin Maritime Museum), signage noting public park, trash receptacles, etc.
Because this project has many facets and the space is designed with many different uses in mind, it will attract a multitude of user groups and activities to the space. This includes pedestrians and driving patrons visiting the adjacent post office, bank, and businesses. It will also draw pedestrians from the adjacent downtown area and from across the river from the Riverpoint development. Another key user group is visitors to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum. This open and free to the public space is a way for casual visitors to engage with museum collections and understand the Manitowoc maritime story. And, while the space will be used for museum programming, such as public archaeology projects, and a meeting point for collections-focused museum tours, it will also be a place to quietly explore Manitowoc’s maritime heritage at visitors’ own pace in a park setting.