This Month in Mid-Atlantic Horticultural News
Mid-Atlantic Horticultural Rolodex
Hahn Horticulture Gardens reign over Va. Tech campus
By JANE W. GRAHAM
A Virginia Tech jewel sits on top of the hill on the Blacksburg campus and is a welcoming spot for students, faculty and staff, visitors and the community at large. This is the Hahn Horticulture Garden. The garden, established in 1984 by the Virginia Tech horticulture faculty, has continued to grow and attract new fans through the years.
Dr. Holly Scoggins, associate professor of horticulture and director of the garden, reported that the garden has many goals. First of all is its use as an outdoor classroom for students in the department, helping them to learn in several ways, including hands-on work with the soils and plants.
The garden of approximately 6 acres has developed over the years. The latest addition to the garden is a meadow that faces the setting sun and gives visitors a chance to see what kinds of plants grow in a meadow.
“The Meadow Garden was funded by a gift from Dr. T. Marshall Hahn, the 11th president of Virginia Tech. It was dedicated in June 2008,” Scoggins said. “It was designed and planted in honor of his wife Peggy; the meadow proper is called ‘Peggy's Meadow.’"
She explained that the meadow, adjoining lawn and amphitheater were designed by the firm Nelson Bird Woltz of Charlottesville.
“Construction and planting was done in-house with the help of Virginia Tech Facilities personnel,” Scoggins continued. “Horticulturists Paul Chumbley and Dabney Blanton led the planting efforts, with the help of students and garden volunteers,” she continued.
“A winding dry creek-bed swale helps guide rainfall runoff down the hill,” Scoggins said. “The site was previously a grassy parking lot used by VT athletics for football and baseball games. The soil was incredibly poor and compacted.”
The garden started on about one acre of land fronting on Washington Street. After grading for pathways and drainage was complete, compost from the Town of Blacksburg was added by the truckload. This provided a meager layer of soil amendment.
“Many of the planting holes had to be dug with pick axes,” Scoggins recalled. “We were careful to explain to the Landscape Establishment students helping with the project that this wasn't an ideal situation!”
Scoggins worked with several Virginia nurseries including Saunders Brothers, Inc. of Piney River and Bennett's Creek Nursery of Suffolk, who donated hundreds of perennials, grasses, and shrubs.
“I worked with them to select tough yet beautiful plants that could be readily found by gardeners,” she continued. “The native range of most of the plants includes the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Some are cultivars, some are straight species. It's been marvelous to watch these drifts of perennials expand and meld together — it looks more like a real meadow every year.”
Scoggins noted that the center “lawn” of garden is planted with no-mow buffalo grass.
“Although the lawn is beautiful and drought-resistant, control of broad leaf weeds and other warm season grasses has been a challenge,” she said. “But that's what we're here for — to try new things, to demonstrate different landscape designs and gardening techniques to both our students and garden visitors.”
As with any garden feature, Scoggins said, they continue to edit the plant collection as some things are more rambunctious than other.
“Faculty and students from several horticulture courses utilize the meadow, including our plant identification classes,” she reported. “Our public gardens maintenance class and garden volunteers help pull the inevitable army of weeds that show up each season. Please come enjoy the garden any time of year, and enjoy the product of years of work by horticulture students, staff and faculty.”
In addition to the meadow, the Hahn Horticulture Garden has many other features to be enjoyed year round. These include the Peggy Lee Hahn Garden Pavilion: the Jocylene Couture Nowak Memorial Terrace Garden; the Utility Line Arboretum; the Jane Andrews Memorial Stream Garden; the Conifer Display; the Trident Maple Allee; the Shade Gardens; the Small Pond; the Xeriscape Garden; the Spectrum Border; and the Bright Perennial Border.


COLLEGES, CORPORATIONS, AND CITIES: BUILDING CAMPUS SUSTAINABILITY
The 2017 Mayors’ Symposium & Statewide Arbor Day Celebration
Trees Atlanta, the Georgia Forestry Commission, and the Georgia Urban Forest Council presented the second annual Mayors’ Symposium on Trees and statewide Arbor Day Celebration February 14th at the Trees Atlanta Kendeda Center. The 2017 event focused on model sustainable corporate and college campuses, including Chick-fil-A, Georgia Tech’s EcoCommons, and the Living Buildings Challenge. Innovations implemented on campuses are demonstrating urban forests as an integral part of campus and city design. We heared from mayors from Brookhaven, Chamblee, and Dunwoody, as well as the city manager of Doraville, who are collaborating across city boundaries for better community outcomes. Stephanie Stuckey Benfield, Atlanta’s new Chief Resilience Officer, addressed the importance of city forests in our sustainability efforts. Robert Farris, director of the Georgia Forestry Commission helped recognized new and renewing Tree City USA communities, Tree Line USA utility companies, and Tree Campus USA colleges. Approximately 100 people were in attendance.


In recent times, the car-free movement has gained significant momentum as cities around the world strive to create more sustainable and livable urban environments. This movement is defined by a shared belief that motorized vehicles have come to dominate modern cities, leading to issues such as traffic congestion, pollution, and reduced quality of life. The primary goals of the car-free movement are to reduce the reliance on traditional vehicles and to promote alternative transportation options that prioritize the well-being of both residents and the environment.
The car-free movement finds its roots in the historical evolution of cities. Before the widespread adoption of cars, urban spaces were designed to facilitate walking, cycling, and communal interactions. However, with the introduction of automobiles, urban sprawl and traffic congestion emerged, reshaping the landscape of cities and leading to car dominance. This shift prompted a reevaluation of urban planning practices and the need for more sustainable alternatives.
Impact on Urban Design
Urban design plays a crucial role in facilitating the success of the car-free movement. The promotion of sustainable and public transport options is at the forefront of urban design efforts. Zoning regulations are adjusted to encourage mixed-use developments that combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, reducing the need for long-distance transportation. Housing developments are strategically located to provide proximity and accessibility to daily necessities, thus reducing the dependency on private cars.
Examples of New Urbanism and Complete Streets Improvements
New Urbanism and the concept of Complete Streets have emerged as prominent strategies within the car-free movement. New Urbanism focuses on creating pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods that incorporate mixed land uses and provide a sense of community. Complete Streets initiatives prioritize the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport users by designing roads and streets to accommodate various modes of transportation.
Different Approaches to Car-Free Spaces
The car-free movement encompasses various approaches aimed at reducing or eliminating vehicular traffic within urban areas:
Some cities have taken the bold step of completely eliminating cars from certain areas. These car-free cities designate specific zones where only non-motorized transportation is allowed. This innovative approach not only reduces pollution and congestion but also promotes a healthier and more vibrant urban experience.
Car-free zones represent a more nuanced approach, wherein restricted car use is enforced in particular parts of a city. This strategy strikes a balance between accommodating essential vehicle use and promoting sustainable alternatives. Traffic bollards and barriers are strategically placed to prevent unauthorized vehicular entry, creating safe and inviting spaces for pedestrians and cyclists.
Strategies for Car-Free Urban Areas
Creating successful car-free urban areas requires a combination of strategies that prioritize the well-being of residents and the environment:
Living Streets and Complete Streets
Living streets are designed with a primary focus on pedestrians, cyclists, and communal activities. These streets prioritize safety, accessibility, and aesthetics. Complete Streets principles extend this idea by ensuring that roads are designed to accommodate a variety of transportation modes, promoting inclusivity and reducing the need for car travel.
Reducing Long-Distance Transportation
Promoting car-free urban spaces involves minimizing the necessity for long-distance transportation. This can be achieved through careful urban planning that places essential services, workplaces, and recreational facilities within walking or cycling distance. By reducing the need to commute long distances, individuals are encouraged to embrace sustainable modes of transportation.
Creating Proximity and Accessibility
Designing neighborhoods with a strong sense of proximity and accessibility is pivotal in reducing car dependency. By providing easy access to grocery stores, schools, healthcare facilities, and recreational areas, residents are more likely to choose walking, cycling, or public transportation for their daily needs.
Case Studies and Examples
Several successful initiatives illustrate the effectiveness of the car-free movement:
World Squares for All
London’s “World Squares for All” project focuses on reclaiming major squares from vehicular traffic. By transforming these spaces into pedestrian-friendly zones, the city promotes social interaction, cultural events, and a cleaner environment.
Car-Free Cities and Zones
Cities like Copenhagen, Amsterdam, and Pontevedra have embraced car-free zones with remarkable success. These initiatives have led to improved air quality, reduced noise pollution, and increased public space utilization.
Sustainable Transportation Alternatives
Innovative solutions, such as distribution centers for goods and last-mile delivery systems, help reduce personal car use. Online food ordering systems and community bicycle programs contribute to the overall reduction in vehicular traffic.
Advocacy and Activism
The car-free movement is further propelled by advocacy groups and activism:
Campaign for Better Transport
Groups like the Campaign for Better Transport advocate for enhanced public transportation systems. Their efforts contribute to shifting the narrative from car dominance to sustainable transportation options.
Car Free Walks and Activist Groups
Initiatives like Car Free Walks encourage public transport for recreational activities. Activist groups like Reclaim the Streets and Critical Mass rides organize events that promote alternative transportation and challenge the status quo.
Celebrating Car-Free Initiatives
Official events such as Car Free Days, Ciclovía, and World Urbanism Day celebrate the success of the car-free movement:
Car Free Days
These events encourage residents to leave their cars at home for a day, showcasing the benefits of reduced traffic congestion and improved air quality.
Ciclovía emphasizes cycling as a viable alternative to cars by temporarily closing streets to vehicular traffic and encouraging people to cycle.
World Urbanism Day
World Urbanism Day promotes non-car transportation options globally, fostering discussions on sustainable urban development.
Car-Free Development Models
Various car-free development models have emerged as solutions for creating sustainable and livable urban spaces:
Vauban Model in Freiburg, Germany
The Vauban model in Freiburg showcases balanced traffic management through restricted car access, ample green spaces, and efficient public transportation.
Limited Access Models and Pedestrian Zones
Limited access models and pedestrian zones prioritize pedestrian and cyclist safety while allowing only authorized vehicles in specific areas.
Benefits and Challenges
The car-free movement presents a host of benefits and challenges:
Reduced pollution, noise, and congestion are significant environmental gains achieved through the reduction of car use.
Challenges and Solutions
Changing urban infrastructure and individual habits pose challenges, which can be addressed through comprehensive urban planning, public awareness campaigns, and incentivizing sustainable transportation choices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the car-free movement?
The car-free movement is a societal initiative aimed at reducing the reliance on automobiles in urban environments. It advocates for alternative modes of transportation and seeks to create cities and zones where cars are not the dominant means of commuting and transportation.
- Reducing reliance on automobiles in urban settings.
- Promoting alternative modes of transportation.
- Creating car-free cities and zones for sustainable living.
What led to the dominance of cars in urban spaces?
The dominance of cars in urban spaces can be attributed to factors such as industrialization, urban sprawl, and advancements in automobile technology. As cities expanded, infrastructure development often prioritized road networks and parking facilities, making cars a convenient choice for transportation.
- Industrialization and urbanization contributed to the need for efficient transportation.
- Infrastructure development favored cars with extensive road networks.
- Advancements in automobile technology increased accessibility and convenience.
How does urban design play a role in reducing car use?
Urban design has a significant impact on reducing car use by promoting walkability, providing accessible public transportation, and creating mixed-use spaces. Well-designed cities prioritize pedestrian-friendly layouts, integrate public transportation hubs, and encourage community engagement within walking distances.
- Walkable urban designs enhance pedestrian accessibility.
- Efficient public transportation systems decrease car dependency.
- Mixed-use spaces reduce the need for long commutes and car travel.
What are car-free cities and zones?
Car-free cities and zones are areas within urban environments where automobiles are restricted or entirely prohibited. These areas prioritize pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport, leading to cleaner air, reduced congestion, and improved quality of life for residents.
- Car-free cities restrict or ban automobiles in designated areas.
- Focus on non-motorized transportation options and public transit.
- Positive outcomes include improved air quality and reduced traffic congestion.
What are some successful examples of car-free initiatives?
Several cities worldwide have successfully implemented car-free initiatives. For instance, Copenhagen in Denmark has dedicated cycling lanes and pedestrian-friendly streets. Paris, France, introduced the “Paris Respire” program, which restricts traffic in certain neighborhoods on Sundays and holidays, encouraging car-free activities.
- Copenhagen, Denmark, promotes cycling and pedestrian-friendly streets.
- Paris, France, restricts traffic in specific areas on designated days.
- Various cities globally have adopted successful car-free strategies.
Car-Free Development: Benefits and Challenges
What are the benefits of car-free development?
Car-free development offers numerous benefits, including reduced air pollution, enhanced public health, improved urban aesthetics, and decreased traffic congestion. By prioritizing alternative modes of transportation, these developments create sustainable, livable, and vibrant communities.
- Reduced air pollution and improved air quality.
- Enhanced public health due to increased physical activity and reduced emissions.
- Decreased traffic congestion and improved urban aesthetics.
What challenges are associated with car-free development?
Car-free development also comes with challenges, including resistance from car-dependent individuals, potential economic impacts on businesses, and the need for efficient public transportation systems. Balancing the needs of various stakeholders and ensuring accessibility are crucial aspects of successful implementation.
- Resistance from individuals accustomed to car-dependent lifestyles.
- Potential economic impacts on businesses reliant on car traffic.
- Necessity for well-functioning public transportation systems.
Last-Mile Delivery Solutions in Car-Free Living
How do last-mile delivery solutions contribute to car-free living?
Last-mile delivery solutions play a vital role in car-free living by providing convenient ways to receive goods without personal car usage. These solutions include bike couriers, electric delivery vehicles, and centralized pickup points, reducing the need for individual car trips for shopping and deliveries.
- Last-mile delivery solutions offer alternatives to personal car trips.
- Bike couriers and electric vehicles contribute to sustainable urban logistics.
- Centralized pickup points minimize traffic congestion and environmental impact.
Advocacy Groups and Car-Free Movement
What role do advocacy groups and activism play in the car-free movement?
Advocacy groups and activism play a crucial role in promoting the car-free movement by raising awareness, lobbying for policy changes, and encouraging community participation. These groups help shift public perception, influence urban planning decisions, and drive the adoption of car-free initiatives.
- Advocacy groups raise awareness about the benefits of car-free living.
- Activism drives policy changes and urban planning decisions.
- Community engagement is encouraged through advocacy efforts.
Car Free Days and Ciclovía Events
How do Car-Free Days and Ciclovía events work?
Car-Free Days and Ciclovía events are initiatives where certain roads are closed to automobiles for a designated period. During these events, streets are opened to pedestrians, cyclists, and various non-motorized activities, promoting physical activity, community engagement, and showcasing the potential of car-free urban spaces.
- Car-Free Days and Ciclovía events close roads to automobiles temporarily.
- Non-motorized activities like walking, cycling, and community gatherings are promoted.
- These events highlight the possibilities of car-free urban environments.
- How can individuals transition to a car-free lifestyle?
The car-free movement is a vital catalyst for transforming urban spaces into sustainable, walkable, and livable environments. By reimagining transportation and urban design, cities can foster community engagement, improve air quality, and enhance the overall quality of life. Embracing car-free initiatives is not only an environmental imperative but also a commitment to creating a brighter, more connected future for generations to come.


Chelmer Waterside, Chelmsford, for Taylor WImpey
BNP Paribas Real Estate assisted Taylor Wimpey in securing planning permission for a brownfield site to be regenerated as Chelmer Waterside, Chelmsford
We were instructed to advise on the regeneration of an underused brownfield site in Chelmsford city centre into a vibrant residential and commercial area. Landscaping and infrastructure improvements were also required as part of the development.
With our guidance, planning permission for the scheme was granted in March 2017 by unanimous decision. In a desirable waterfront location, the site will make a valuable contribution to affordable housing stock and the city overall.


For the first time since Grounds Supervisor Phil Capinski and his team created a compost pile for the College’s leaves, grass clippings other green waste, that compost will be used as top dressing around the Central Campus.
The College is working with Livezey Landscaping Inc. to process the contents of the pile through a screener, which separates and further refines usable compost from rocks and materials that have not yet sufficiently broken down.
Once it becomes dry, the useable compost will then be spread as top dressing on athletic fields, parts of the quad and areas around the Advanced Technology Center.
Debris that was rejected during the screening process is returned to the compost pile for another year.
In addition to making environmental sense, the College saves more than $6,000 dollars and cents per year by not having to purchase compost.


Archetypes : Naturescapes
Areas with natural trees and vegetation as well as viewpoints and walks are a wonderful way to cultivate peoples relationship to the ecological community. When people come together with nature, wonderful relationships are born and nurtured. Everyone benefits from contact with the natural world of which they are so intrinsically a part
Pocket Parks, Parkettes and Nature Spaces
Small towns and villages are often alot closer to nature than big cities and can include nature strips, woodland parks and small parkettes to create places for people to meet and build relationships with each other, animals, plants, birds, fungi, reptiles and all other living and non-living elements of the ecosystem. Natural spaces and waterways promote diversity while providing food and habitat for the ecological community. This includes seating areas that encourage people to gather and connect with each other and the ecosystem around them.


Posted on 8th June 2016
Summer is here and The View from The Shard has opened up London’s highest summer garden. 800ft high, the garden includes 1500 flowers, 1900 litres of soil and even 80 snails!
For a limited time, the open-air skydeck on level 72 will be transformed into an immersive garden. Leave the city behind and celebrate The Year of The English Garden at The Shard. The garden is open from 2nd June – 18th September 2016 and tickets are available on the venue’s website.
For more information, please contact a member of our team.


Attractive sidewalks with pavers, colored concrete crosswalks, pedestrian bulb-outs, new trees, and additional street lighting, irrigation and other features were added to a five block stretch of Commerce Avenue in Longview last year. Calling the $1.8 million project “a re-investment in our community” the project should encourage people to visit downtown, stay longer and come pack more often. Attracting new businesses, creating jobs and improving the lives of residents and businesses already in the area are all benefits of the downtown beautification. During the construction phase of the project, coordinating with businesses to minimize disruption and maintain accesses to local businesses was given a large amount of attention and was said to be successful. The streetscape of the 1300 block of Commerce Avenue is next to see improvements underway by year’s end.


Planting of the Jubilee Tree
The Mayor Cllr Peter Williams will be planting a tree as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy project. Boyces of Manstree have kindly donated a silver birch tree and we have been working with Friends of Eastcliff who have liaised with Teignbridge District Council to locate and prepare a suitable area in Eastcliff Park. All welcome.
Date – Friday, 4 March 2022
Time – 10.50am for planting at 11am
Where – down the slope in front of Rowdens House, Teignmouth
Footwear – wellies or walking boots as likely to be muddy


Kumaraguru campus emanates the project Microcosm with a vision to create a campus ecosystem of balance and influence. Kumaraguru microcosm is a seed to making a coexisting, inclusive and sustainable environment for a quality life of the humans and all other living partners.
Microcosm is a multi-year programme carrying projects of environmental sustainability, to create a grand eco-future. This initiative aims to build a sustainable ecosystem by 2024, the 40th year of KCT and to continue to exhibit the acts of sustainability, for sustainability being the omnipotent.
Increasing Green Cover, Water Management, Waste Management, Energy, Air, Sound, Earth, Art, Architecture and the Role of Inhabitants in values, ethics, culture and beliefs will be the areas of project implementation to make the campus a model educational ecosystem of sustainable living. This environmental sustainability is vital to socio-economic sustainability.
Partners of ideation, conceptualisation and action are the students and faculty members of the Department of Environmental Engineering and Nature Club of KCT in association with TNAU – Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu Forest College – Coimbatore, Osai – Coimbatore, Isha: Project Green Hands – Coimbatore and Wild Wing Trust – Coimbatore.
Kumaraguru campus is a green landscape with 4200 trees and 54 bird species and to double this green, Green Cover will be the first year project in Microcosm. Sustainability projects in other areas are in the planning phase and are scheduled to take off in the coming months and years. With this, the campus will be a living museum with innovations from traditional and modern practices of sustainability.
Green Cover projects launching this year
1. Miyawaki Forest in Kumaraguru campus
What is Miyawaki plantation?
The Miyawaki method of afforestation or planting trees involves the planting of different types of trees closely in a pit. This will lead to co-existence of plants and mutual supply of plant nutrients with each other.
No of saplings to be planted: 800 – 1000 in each plantation across the campus
No of species: 50
Approximate density per plant: 2.5 sq.ft
Prominent Varities Planted
Iyal vagai | Karumardhu | Malai vembu | Mandarai | Manjal Kadambai
Maruthani | Pala | Punnai | Poovarasu | Semmaram | Sarakondrai
2. Nursery for rare plant species
To increase the bio-diversity of Kumaraguru campus, the nursery will house a variety of native and hard to find tree species. This will be an opportunity for the community of Kumaraguru to understand the significance, contribution and conservation of trees as this is the ultimate source of existence.


Determining When It’s Time To Install A Retaining Wall
In Buffalo, property preservation and aesthetics stand out as prime concerns for homeowners. The ever-shifting climate and natural terrain bring forth challenges, particularly in preventing soil erosion, managing slopes, and cultivating practical outdoor spaces. Here, the spotlight shines on retaining walls as a versatile solution, marrying structural support with visual allure. As the go-to concrete contractor in Buffalo NY, Dietz Decorative Concrete steps in to uncover the telltale signs indicating the need for homeowners to consider the installation of retaining walls.
1. Erosion Defense and Slope Stability
Buffalo’s varied weather – from torrential downpours to unrelenting snow storms – spells soil erosion and instability across property slopes. A retaining wall emerges as a robust barricade, stopping soil erosion. When you spot soil washouts or uneven terrains forming, it’s a clear signal that a retaining wall could be the solution. The experts at Dietz Decorative Concrete specialize in creating and installing retaining walls that not only tackle erosion but also amplify the overall visual appeal of your property.
2. Crafting Usable Outdoor Havens
Lands with elevation changes or irregular contours often curtail the utility of outdoor spaces. Enter the retaining wall, a transformative solution for these challenging areas. Think of a leveled garden, an alfresco seating enclave, a beautiful outdoor patio space, or a snug fire pit zone. A well-constructed retaining wall morphs these dreams into reality while imparting distinctiveness to your property. Our seasoned artisans at Dietz Decorative Concrete curate each retaining wall project to align with your distinct requirements, ensuring that your concept takes form and elevates your property’s equity.
3. Shielding Against Foundation Wear
Residences nestled on inclines or slopes run the risk of foundation compromise due to soil displacement. A retaining wall rises as a protective bulwark, stabilizing the soil and preempting undue pressure on your dwelling’s foundation. Foundation fractures, uneven settling, and basement dampness could all point towards the indispensability of a retaining wall in shielding your property’s structural robustness.
4. Elevating Aesthetic Allure
Retaining walls, beyond their utilitarian virtues, substantially increases your property’s value and aesthetic charm. Dietz Decorative Concrete prides itself in fabricating retaining walls that seamlessly integrate with your extant landscape. With an array of materials, textures, and hues at our disposal, we fashion customized solutions that goes with your property’s aesthetics, while also delivering proper structural reinforcement.
5. Dealing with Drainage Conundrums
The accumulation of water and subpar drainage often translate into soggy, mucky patches on your grounds. Installing a retaining wall in a strategic manner can help you orchestrate water runoff, diverting it away from your premises and precluding the specter of potential flooding or soil saturation. Our adept team’s acumen in devising retaining walls interwoven with drainage systems ensures that your grounds stay dry and amenable, notwithstanding meteorological caprices.
Do You Need To Put In A Retaining Wall?
Retaining walls stand as indispensable instruments in augmenting both your property’s stability and aesthetic grandeur. Whether grappling with erosion, slope steadiness, foundation apprehensions, or simply aspiring to conjure captivating outdoor niches, a retaining wall could be your ticket to success. As the premiere concrete contractor in Buffalo NY, Dietz Decorative Concrete extends peerless proficiency in conceptualizing, strategizing, and erecting retaining walls tailored to your needs, ushering your landscape into a tapestry of utilitarian allure. Procrastination isn’t the answer; get in touch today to see how a retaining wall can up your home’s elegance & functionality.


Deep Infrequent Watering
Why do we recommend deep, infrequent watering? There are a couple reasons but both are due to the benefit your lawn receives.
First, deep watering encourages deep root growth. This ensures your turf stand has better access to water during times of drought, rather than struggling due to a shallow root system. Even when watering daily for short periods in the summer, much of that water is unused due to how quickly the top layer of soil dries out in the summer.
The second is cultural weed prevention. Weeds such as yellow nutsedge (perennial) and doveweed (late germinating annual) prefer moist soils. Watering daily ensures soil stays moist more often, encouraging growth of these plants. By watering deeply, once or twice per week, the top layer of soil dried out discouraging growth of sedges and doveweed.
If you would like an estimate for lawn maintenance or weed control and fertilization , feel free to call us at 706-941-6600.


When it rains a lot, does the place turn into a swamp? Are the walkways strewn with puddles? This has a negative impact on more than just looks. Plants suffer, the basement becomes hot, mold develops, and the foundation crumbles rainwater.
Here are 5 techniques to get rid of extra water after a shower. We’ll progress from basic to advanced.
Method 1: Drainage Ditch
The lowest portion of the local area is usually flooded after a downpour. Dig a shallow and shallow ditch to reroute water flows from there.
Remember to account for a 1-2 percent slope by placing a bubble level on the bottom and ensuring that the bubble contacts either the first or second risk.
Water should flow from your yard through a ditch and into a rain garden or a collection well.
Although the ditch’s primary function is to reroute flows, it can also absorb part of the water. To do this, pour pebbles into the channel’s bottom and plant deep-rooted plants on the slopes to slow the flow. For a beautiful landscape element, use boulders and bridges. Even when dry, the ditch will look lovely with adequate planting.
Method 2: Create A Rain Garden
If the property has a lowland where a lot of water runs during a downpour, create a rain garden there.
In most gardens, moisture-loving plants are planted. Sedge, coaching, and other plants with long fibrous roots that can withstand water can be planted in the center. Plant red dogwood and other plants that can withstand infrequent floods and don’t require upkeep between floods around them. Coniferous and deciduous bushes grow around the edges, preferring drier conditions.
A rain garden must not become a pond. Water collects here but eventually drains into the ground. Other methods of drainage, such as collector wells, can be connected to it.
Method 3: The Collector Well
A collecting well (also known as drainage or dry well) is a useful tool for returning water to the soil. It’s just a regular pit in its most basic form. It’s made of gravel or porous material that may contain water until it soaks into the earth.
A specific plastic collector well can also be purchased. This barrel has openings in the bottom and sides and holds 100-150 liters. During rainfall, water rushes into the barrel through small channels, then eventually into the soil through the holes. The walls and bottom of the hole in which the barrel is put should be lined with gravel or porous material to ensure drainage.
This dry well should hold enough rainwater to capture the first 15-20 minutes of heavy rain. If one of the barrels is missing, a replacement can be installed next to it. The collector well can be connected to a French drain if the soil can’t hold 100 liters of rainwater.
Method 4: Drainage In The French Style
This is a drain that has an entry but does not have to have an exit. It’s a perforated pipe, to be precise. Rainwater can escape via numerous holes along the length of the pipe and into the earth.
To prevent dirt and sand from clogging the pipe, it is normally made of lightweight, flexible plastic and encased with a cloth sock.
The pipe is buried in a trench with gravel or polystyrene absorbent material on the walls and bottom.
There is no need to dig a trench. Water can flow into the drain down the entire length of the pipe if long and narrow grates are installed on top.
Method 5: Closed Sewer Strom
Install an underground non-perforated drainpipe if the above procedures fail. Such a pipe has a flat grate at the entrance and then travels underground, redirecting water to the discharge point – a common village ditch or the same collection wells. This will undoubtedly address the drainage issue, but it will necessitate extensive digging.
Water will only drain if the drain point is below the inflow point because this sort of drainage does not require a pump. As a result, you’ll need to dig a trench with a slope of at least 1 centimeter by 1 meter to generate drainage (use a building level).
The trench is 30 to 50 centimeters deep. A trench is dug with geotextiles and gravel, and a sand cushion 10-20 cm thick is built at the bottom to keep the pipe from freezing.
A grate is built at the entrance to prevent the pipe from being clogged, and a sand trap is constructed at the pipe’s connection with the collector well to prevent the pipe from becoming clogged. An inspection hatch must be created in these spots if the pipe is bent or numerous pipes are joined into one so that the blockage can be removed.
Things around your house are taken care of by us so you don’t have to worry about them. Call us today!


Fencing Contractors in Shingle Springs
There are many reasons why you may decide to install a fence on your property. Do you have a dog or young children? Do you want to keep them and your property safe? Do you want to host parties?
There are several things to consider when choosing a fence for your yard:
One of the most common types of fencing is the chain-link fence. This is a budget-friendly option if you don’t care about aesthetics or privacy. It’s made from galvanized metal and comes in different heights. Another benefit of these fences is their durability and low maintenance requirements.
Steel fences offer more security than chain link fences and look somewhat better. These fences last for many years and require low maintenance.
For more aesthetically focused people, wrought iron fencing can be a great option. These fences offer higher security and look elegant. They also require low maintenance but are pricier than the previous two types.
When you want more privacy, standard wood fencing may be the way to go. Wood looks great and can offer security as well as privacy. You need to stain these fences to prevent rot, so they require a bit more maintenance.
They can be simple or ornate, depending on your tastes. You can add finials or lattices to hang plants and window boxes. You can choose the type of wood as well, ranging from pine to cedar.
Another good choice for a secure, privacy fence is vinyl. This type of fence doesn’t rot and is not susceptible to insect damage. They can also be plain or more decorated. They do require a bit more maintenance and need periodic cleaning to prevent mold and mildew, however.
If you have a garden, you may decide to install a lattice fence. These are perfect to grow plants on and provide some privacy. You can choose between wood or vinyl.
Another more aesthetically pleasing fence is the classic picket fence. These are purely for looks and to mark borders. They go well with gardens and landscaping and won’t cost you too much.
Besides fencing, we also offer help designing patios. Our experts can help guide you through the process of creating your perfect outdoor space.


Useful Tips When Determining The Best Landscaping Service To Engage
When out to find improvement projects for your residential or commercial property, there is no doubt that you will have options. If you need to determine the best improvement project for a residential or commercial property, there is a need to define the aspect that you want to enhance. The exteriors, as well as the outer space of your residential or commercial property, will make the first impression for any person who visits. The first impression is also the last one, and this means that improving the curb appeal of the outer space will make the best first impression to your visitors. When you need to improve the aesthetics of the outer space; there is a need to make the right choice and hire the services of a landscaping company. Do make sure to check this website.
One can benefit from a range of services if they engage landscaping experts such as Nolet Brothers. Apart from landscaping, one can also hire the experts when they need landscape design, hardscaping, and lawn maintenance services. When you need your gardens or lawns looking green throughout the year, you will need to make the right choice and hire a landscaping company. Here are some aspects to keep in mind when out to find the best landscaping service to engage.
Before choosing to hire any landscape service to hire, there is a need to check the credentials of the company. There is a need to hire a landscaping service that is insured and licensed. A license shows that the company you are about to select has been alto offer the services in your area. An insurance certificate will assure the property owner that they are safe from an additional cost that might result from an accident in the course of landscaping or lawn maintenance project.
It is also vital that one determines the level of experience that comes with the landscaping experts. A property owner should only hire a landscaping service after learning the number of years that the professionals have been offering the services in their area. The best way to increase the chances of enjoying the best landscaping services is hiring a company that has been offering landscaping services for some years. One will also need to find some of the projects being handled by the landscaping service before they choose to hire a given company to help them enhance the appearance of the outer space. You'll want to read more here.
It is also essential that one learns the cost of hiring a particular landscaping company. Before you choose to hire a given landscaping service, there is a need to discuss the costs with the contractor, and this will ensure that you only hire landscaping experts charging a fair price for their services and without any hidden charges. Learn more about landscaping for beginners here: https://youtu.be/9-k1dYeNMY4


Kenrokuen Garden. 5,756 Reviews #2 of 381 things to do in Kanazawa. Parks, Gardens. Get the full experience and book a tour. Recommended. Our most popular tours and activities. Tours & Sightseeing. Browse our largest collection of experiences. Walking & Biking Tours. Explore on your feet—and never miss anything Kenroku-en (兼六園, Six Attributes Garden), located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan, is an old private garden.Along with Kairaku-en and Kōraku-en, Kenroku-en is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan.The grounds are open year-round except for December 29 through January 3 during daylight hours and famous for its beauty in all seasons; an admission fee is charged The garden was called Renchi-tei (lotus pond) at least from 1676 until it burned down in 1759. Kenroku-en, as the garden has been called since the late 1700's, is a typical garden of a Daimyo (feudal lord). It is located next to, but outside of the Kanazawa Castle area and has been considered the outer garden of the castle The Kenrokuen Shuttle Bus is a bus between Kanazawa Station and Kenrokuen Garden that also makes stops along the way. It departs from Kanazawa Station East Gate Bus Terminal No.6 every 20 minutes from 9.30 am to 5:50 pm. Takes about 20 minutes. 200 yen per ride on weekdays, 100 yen on weekends and public holidays, or 500 yen for a day pass
Kenroku-en garden ligger precis bredvid Kanazawa castle och är listad som en av Japans vackraste trädgårdar, av goda skäl. Att se den på våren, som vi gjorde, med körsbärsblommorna i full blom bara ökade på upplevelsen. Något av det vackraste vi såg på hela vår vistelse The garden was created by the ruling Maeda family over three centuries beginning in 1676 with a landscape garden called Renchitei.This garden was destroyed by fire in 1759, but was restored in 1774, and in 1822 the garden acquired its current name Kenrokuen.This name is sometimes translated as garden of six elements This enchanting garden close to the famous Kenrokuen in Kanazawa welcomes you for a stroll and the discovery of tea ceremony. infos. Things to do and see in kanazawa. Activities for Kids 1 article . Events & festivals 4 articles . From local cafés to gourmet. Kenrokuen Garden - A Garden of Six Qualities . The name Kenrokuen, means Garden of Six Qualities. Garden of Six Qualities references back to the 11th century Chinese literature, which dictated the six features of an ideal landscape: spaciousness, seclusion, human artifice, antiquity, waterways, and panoramic views
Resor. Logga in. Kanazaw Kenrokuen Garden is the focal point of Kanazawa and has a long and celebrated history. The garden was created over the span of several hundred years by the Maeda family, and today is one of the best examples of a strolling-style Japanese landscape garden. The garden offers something to enjoy whatever the season The area surrounding Hisago-ike Pond was once called Renchi-tei 蓮池庭 (Lotus Pond Garden), and it is said that this pond's surroundings were where Kenrokuen was first started as a garden. The origin of the pond's name came from how the center of the pond looked like it was in the shape of a gourd 瓢箪 (hyōtan).The first kanji in the Japanese word for gourd is also the first kanji of the.
Kenrokuen or Kenroku-en is a famous, private old Japanese Garden in Kanazawa Japan. Kenrokuen is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan, along with Kairaku-en and Koraku-en. This large garden used to be the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle and was constructed by the ruling Maeda family over a period of nearly two hundred years during the 1620s to the 1840s, maintained from generation to. Despite the rain, we still enjoyed our visit to Kenrokuen, one of Japan's top 3 garden. We visited in the winter but was still able to enjoy the garden. Just strolling through the garden itself gives me a sense of calmness Kenrokuen Garden. 5,751 Reviews #2 of 381 things to do in Kanazawa. Parks, Gardens. Get the full experience and book a tour. Recommended. Our most popular tours and activities. Tours & Sightseeing. Browse our largest collection of experiences. Walking & Biking Tours. Explore on your feet—and never miss anything Hitta professionella Kenrokuen Garden videor och bakom kulisserna-material som kan licensieras för film-, tv- och företagsanvändning. Getty Images erbjuder exklusiva royaltyfria analoga rights-ready och premium HD- och 4K-videor av högsta kvalitet 2017-okt-21 - Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, Japan, 201
Oct 13, 2020 - This beautiful park contains one of the top three celebrated gardens in Japan. The name Kenrokuen literally translates to garden combining six, referring to the six attributes all gardens should.. Kenrokuen is 1 of Japan's top 3 most beautiful gardens. The garden's scenery was spectacular. It included ponds , fountains , waterfalls , bridges, lanterns, tea houses and all sorts of amazing trees Kenrokuen was built in the seventeenth century as part of a villa for the lord of the Kaga domain and is now one the three great gardens of Japan. It was opened to the public following the.
Kenrokuen has been called Japan's most beautiful historical traditional garden and for good reason. Come discover why here. Kenrokuen has a history going back to 1620 and was gradually developed. Book your tickets online for Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa: See 5,756 reviews, articles, and 7,106 photos of Kenrokuen Garden, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 381 attractions in Kanazawa
. Entrance to the garden is ¥310, while the castle grounds may be entered free of charge, though a there is a fee for entering the reconstructed buildings Kenrokuen was named after the six factors that best bring out the beauty of a perfect landscape garden. The six factors are spaciousness, artificiality, antiquity, an abundance of water, beautiful garden views, and tranquility. Within the garden compounds, there are several teahouses, confectioneries, and restaurants Kenrokuen is one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. It was built over a long period of time as a park for the successive feudal lords of the Kaga Domain. Located in the center of Kanazawa City, Kenrokuen is well-known to tourists from around the world and many of the prefecture's residents as a garden where people can enjoy the beauty of the four seasons Kenrokuen Garden. 5 744 Reviews #2 of 377 things to do in Kanazawa. Parks, Gardens. Get the full experience and book a tour. Recommended. Our most popular tours and activities. Shows, Concerts & Sports. See a show or catch a game—with your seats all set. Tours & Sightseeing
Kenrokuen Garden is Kanazawa city's top tourist attraction and famed as one of Japan's top gardens. It was an Edo period feudal lord's private strolling grounds over 300 years ago; today, bobbing tour guide flags punctuate its lush expanse. But it has corners to escape to within its intricate design and surprising delights along its paths Kenroku-en is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. It was built in the Edo period (1603-1868) for the Maeda daimyo clan. It used to be the outer garden of the Kanazawa castle. The garden has a large pond and several panoramic views around it. The oldest fountain of Japan can also be found here . It was opened to the public in 1871 and has attracted people the world over since. Kenrokuen is the type of place that words cannot due justice. Once again, we recommended day and evening visit Kenrokuen Garden attraction travel guidebook, Kanazawa must-visit attractions. Trip.com provides tourists with Kenrokuen Garden attraction address, business hours, brief introduction, open hours, nearby recommendation, restaurant, reviews etc. These information answers detailedly about what to visit in Kanazawa
Kanazawa, Japan Visit the Kenrokuen Garden, considered one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. The spacious garden used to be the outer garden of the Kanazawa Castle. Constructed by the ruling Maeda family over a period of nearly two centuries it was opened to the public in 1871. The garden is filled with Kenrokuen Garden with an area of 25 acres, is located on a hill in the central part of the city of Kanazawa, right next to Kanazawa Castle. We entered the park via the Gyokusen Inmaru gate. It leads up to the Gyokusen Inmaru Garden. Gyokusen Inmaru Garden. The garden was abandoned in the Meiji Era (1868-1912) and was lost to the ravages of time Kenrokuen Garden is located in the heart of Kanazawa city and is considered One of the Three Most Beautiful Gardens in Japan along with Okayama's Koraku-en Garden and Ibaraki's Kairaku-en Garden. While the garden was originally a private garden for the Maeda family mansion, the garden flourished under their ruling period from the 1620's to 1840's Kanazawa's main attraction, the 10-hectare (25-acre) Kenrokuen Garden, once served as the castle's outer garden. The largest of what are considered to be the three best landscape gardens in Japan -- the other two are Kairakuen Garden in Mito and Korakuen Garden in Okayama -- it's considered by some to be the grandest
Among 日本三名園 the three most famous gardens in Japan, Kenrokuen in Kanazawa (Ishikawa Prefecture) is often considered the most beautiful Japanese garden. Its name alone refers to the six attributes considered most important in the concept of the ideal garden: space, serenity, venerability, panorama, subtlety and freshness Kenrokuen Garden was originally the outer garden of Kanazawa Castle. It was located on the slope facing the castle. In 1676, the 5th lord Maeda Tsunamori moved the construction administrative institution on the slope to the castle, and built a rest house called Renchitei in the surrounding area A pedestrian way outside the garden's paid entrance is lined with picturesque shops and restaurants. Before you head to Kanazawa, plan trip itinerary details with our user-friendly Kanazawa trip maker website, to make sure you see all that Kanazawa has to offer, including Kenrokuen Garden Kenrokuen Garden. On the second day wake up early and wander around the Kenrokuen Garden, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan. Arranged another guide through KKG to get a full understanding of the history, philosophy, and significance of this garden
Kenrokuen: The combining-six garden : Kanazawa has one of the three great gardens of Japan -- Kenrokuen. The name means combining-six garden, referring to an 11th century Chinese description of the six attributes of a good garden Book your tickets online for Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa: See 5,751 reviews, articles, and 7,110 photos of Kenrokuen Garden, ranked No.2 on Tripadvisor among 381 attractions in Kanazawa A circuit-style garden with ponds, hills, and pavilions arranged within its expansive grounds In contrast to Japanese gardens designed to be viewed while seated, circuit-style refers to a garden in which maximum use is made of the extent of the land to allow sightseeing in the entire space. Kenrokuen is a Japanese garden built with free use of garden techniques from various time periods. Kenrokuen Garden - Ishikawa, Japan's Oldest Garden 2017 HD Kenroku-en is located on a hill in the central part of the city of Kanazawa Kenrokuen Gardens at the very start of spring. The gardens are across the street from the castle grounds. There are a number of meandering path you can take. The way each tree is shaped and supported is very interesting. I am sure they would be beautiful in spring (March-May) timeframe
Browse Places. Check out our new and improved places directory. Places allows you to see where your friends are and share your location in the real world Korakuen (後楽園, Kōrakuen) is a beautiful landscape garden and Okayama's main attraction. Along with Kanazawa's Kenrokuen and Mito's Kairakuen, Korakuen is ranked as one of Japan's three best landscape gardens.It is located just beside Okayama Castle, which can be seen from the garden as borrowed scenery.. The local feudal lord ordered the construction of Korakuen in 1687 as a place of. Kenrokuen Gardens is within moderate walking distance from the hotel which was a plus for me. The staff are friendly and breakfast is available for purchase at the hotel desk and the variety and quality of the breakfast items was delicious. I must say,. Built across 11.4 hectares, the Kenrokuen Garden is one of the prime tourist destination for the locals as well as tourists. If you want to embrace nature in the truest possible way, then Kenrokuen Garden will offer you just that. Some great pictures and a gala time is definitely assured, if you visit Kenrokuen Garden during your trip to Kanazawa
Enjoy Kenrokuen Garden as part of your tailor-made holiday to Japan. Get in touch with one of Audley's specialists to start planning your perfect tri Kenrokuen The garden of six sublimities: spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water & broad views make the perfect garden in Kanazawa. Once the outer grounds of Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen is perhaps the most famous and most loved garden in all Japan Kenrokuen Garden was the private garden for the Maeda Family, who ruled the Kaga Clan (present day Ishikawa and Toyama areas) during feudal times. Inside the garden there is an artificial pond, a stone lantern designed to look like a Japanese koto (harp), and a fountain that uses natural water pressure Kenrokuen Garden. Photograph Kenrokuen Garden Ishikawa, Kanazawa Japan by Takeshi Kato.
Kenrokuen garden. Foto av leungchopan på Mostphotos. Kommersiell licens; Bilden får användas i kommersiella syften både i tryck och digitalt Kenrokuen Garden is one of the top 3 landscape gardens in Japan alongside Kairakuen and Korakuen. The garden used to be part of Kanazawa Castle and was constructed by the Maeda Family. It took over 2 centuries for the garden to be completely constructed. The name Kenrokuen translates to Garden of the Six Sublimities 58.4k Posts - See Instagram photos and videos taken at '兼六園 (Kenrokuen Garden)'
Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa city, Ishikawa prefecture was founded and extended over generations by the feudal lords of Kaga as a typical Daimyo (feudal lord) garden. It has stood for a long period of time, since the Edo Period up to now. Located in the center of Kanazawa City, well known as a landscape garden with beauty of all seasons, Kenrokuen has been appreciated by both citizens and. Smart modern hotel well located for the Kenrokuen garden and about a mile from the main station. There are several bars and eateries nearby although some were closed on Sunday, the day we were there. The hotel is on a main street with a number of high end shops. Nearer to the Garden there are several art galleries and up market artisan souvenir. 'Kenrokuen garden' is located in Kanazawa city in the northern part of Japan. Kanazawa city is easy access from Tokyo station by bullet trains 'Shinkansen' and take around 3 hour. Kenrokuen garden, kanazawa in Japan. 20 . 88 . 0 . Published: September 13th 2019. mofu pen. Follow Following Unfollow.
Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa, Japan. Photo about hanging, pond, beautiful, four, asia, city, heritage, bridge, landscape, kanazawa, kenrokuen, park, garden, japanese. Sparad från eatspeakjl.blogspot.com.au. Kanazawa. kenrokuen garden, kanazaw
Enjoy Kenrokuen Garden as part of your tailor-made vacation to Japan. Get in touch with one of Audley's specialists to start planning your perfect tri Kenrokuen Garden Kanazawa Kenrokuen Garden - History & When to visit. Kenrokuen Garden history is closely linked to nearby Kanazawa Castle which we also visited. The garden has been open to the public since 1868 but the history goes back much further. In the 1600's Maeda Tsunenori, the 5th lord of Kaga domain built it Kenrokuen Brilliant foliage colours beneath rope and bamboo teepees make for unforgettable images at one of Japan's most famous gardens. Words and pictures: Robin Powell . In Kanazawa, in Ishikawa prefecture on the coast of the Sea of Japan, it snows almost every day in January and February Photo about Kenrokuen garden in Kanazawa (Japan). Image of house, cultural, kanazawa - 6296571 Kenrokuen Garden is minutes away. All rooms have kitchenettes and microwaves. Check availability now! Important: This destination may have COVID-19 travel restrictions in place, including specific restrictions for lodging. Check any national, local, and health advisories for this destination before you book
Kenrokuen Gardens are a vast green space located in the heart of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. This place is one of the main tourist attractions of the city since this park is considered one of the three most beautiful Japanese gardens Kenrokuen, along with Mito Kairakuen and Okayama Kourakuen, is renowned as one of the three most beautiful landscape gardens in Japan. It was constructed by the lords of the Kaga clan over a long period of time and earned the status of Daimyo garden (the garden of a feudal lord) during the Edo period Kenrokuen Garden Kenroku-en Garden, famous for winter scenery featuring protection of trees from snowfall using ropes, was visited by approximately 134,000 tourists from overseas according to the statistics in 2010. It is the golden spot as a tourist destination of Ishikawa Prefecture
Kenrokuen gareden is the third most beautiful garden in Japan. Yeah, I can see that. This place is so beautiful especially in Spring. There are not only cherry blossoms blooming in this garden, but also plum blossoms. When the first time I visit this place was the first week of spring. The cherry blossoms wer Kenrokuen was built by the lords of the Kaga han, and today is one of the three famous gardens of Japan, with an enormous pond, artificial mountain, and tea house located along the winding path. Situated in the center of Kanazawa City, its history and lush natural beauty attract visitors from near and far Kenrokuen Garden One of the three most beautiful gardens of Japan. Featuring a stroll garden with a central pond from the Edo Period, it brings about the elegant beautiful sceneries of the four seasons with sakura, red leaves or Yukitsuri (traditional method of protecting trees from heavy snowfall)
Kenrokuen Garden is a strolling-style landscape garden with the characteristics of a typical Japanese garden of the Edo period. Probably due to its scale and beauty, it is historically known as one of Japan 's three most beautiful landscape gardens beside Kairakuen in Mito and Korakuen in Okayama Kenrokuen Garden in Kanazawa is considered one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan and is conveniently located next to Kanazawa Castle.While it is a great place to enjoy a Japanese garden, there certainly are limitations for those with wheelchairs or other mobility challenges Hokkaido. Sapporo : The great city of Hokkaido; Hakodate : Hokkaido's front door; Niseko : The best powder snow in the world; Furano : Flower fields and skiing in Hokkaid
Kenrokuen Garden over the years from 1676 has had many Lords from different periods add their desires to the garden which according to a gardening book by Li Gefei is supposed to have the six attributes of a perfect landscape garden: spaciousness, seclusion, artifice, antiquity, watercourses and panoramas and in 1922 it was designated a National site of scenic beauty Kenrokuen Garden is open 7am - 6pm March to mid October, 8am - 4. 30pm in winter. Try to visit early or late in the day and not at the weekend. In winter, tree branches are supported by shapely conical rope work radiating from the trunk, to avoid snow damage Kenroku-en, located in Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan, is an old private garden. Along with Kairaku-en and Kōraku-en, Kenroku-en is one of the Three Great Gardens of Japan. The grounds are open year-round except for December 29 through January 3 during daylight hours and famous for its beauty in all seasons; an admission fee is charged As one of Japan's three most beautiful landscape gardens, Kenrokuen (兼六園) in Kanazawa has quite a name to live up to, and so it does. The garden located next to Kanazawa Castle was once the garden of the Maeda Clan's feudal lords who reigned over their territories from here during the Edo Period (1603-1868)


Watercrest Opens Market Street Memory Care Residence
Watercrest Senior Living Group has opened its new Market Street Memory Care Residence in Viera, Fla.
The 44,000-square-foot, 60-unit memory care community features a LifeBUILT design, including abundant natural lighting, internal courtyards with landscaped gardens, circular walkways, visual cueing, and multiple social gathering places.
Designed, owned, and operated by Watercrest Senior Living Group, Market Street Memory Care Residence of Viera Market Plaza is a central gathering space for residents with a fresh flowers, trees, and a streetscape that offers familiar activities such as a post office, newsstand, salon and spa, and more.
The project was built by Walker & Co. Inc.


In dense urban neighborhoods where land is scarce, open space is often called upon to wear multiple hats. In Germantown, the John B. Kelly School yard is undergoing a massive renovation to do just that: be a playground, yes, but also a gathering space for the whole neighborhood. The plan is called KellyGreen
“Our goal is that the Kelly yard become more green and sustainable so that it has a real purpose for the kids that come here," explains Dennis Barneby with the Hansberry Garden and Nature Center
, an organization partnering with the school to transform the yard. "We also want to create a gardening space."
Currently, the site is largely asphalt and underutilized by the school’s 800 students. It's something Barneby has seen firsthand -- the school is only a block away from Hansberry Garden. "It just made sense -- lets look at this space and see how we can use it better for the kids and better for the whole neighborhood," explained Barneby in a recent interview on Northwest Soapbox
initiative was born. Thanks to a planning grant from the Community Design Collaborative
, design professionals and community representatives were enlisted. A design charette process and subsequent meetings led to a workable plan.
Barneby and Hansberry Garden hope the improved school yard will become a place where kids and adults learn how to grow their own food, both in school and during the summer. Ultimately, it’s about creating stewards of land and community.
Now in the fundraising phase, KellyGreen plans to hold a major event this spring. At a minimum, it will involve planting trees and installing raised beds. Some of the planned play equipment could also be installed.
With a successful fundraising push, Barneby hopes KellyGreen will be complete within the next two years.
: Dennis Barneby, Hansberry Garden and Nature Center
: Greg Meckstroth


By: Amelia Kinney/True Activist A revolutionary new project by the Luca Curci architects studio takes the urban sprawl in a new direction– into the water. The Vertical City is a open-air solar-powered skyscraper, designed not only considering environmental sustainability, but also to inspire a sense of community and connection to nature.
According to the architects, “Starting from the analyses of the contemporary skyscraper, conceived as a compact element, smooth and alienated from the surrounding space, the project has re-interpreted it in an opened structure, equipped with green areas on each level, natural light and ventilation. This new interpretation allows its residents to get into an healthier life-style, in connection with natural elements, re-thinking the traditional concept of community and society.”
The water-based tower represents a new trend in city planning and infrastructure. Cities need new strategies to mitigate the effects of global warming, including inevitable sea-level rise. Not only is the Solar Vertical tower impervious to rising sea levels, but it is designed to be energy independent and harness solar energy for mainland buildings, using the structure’s outer shell of photovoltaic glasses.
The tower is designed to be 2,460 feet tall, including ten overlapping modular layers and 180 stories in total. The structure will be planted on the ocean floor, and include facilities underwater as well. One of the most important features of the building is its emphasis on naturat lighting and fresh air circulation, with a great portion dedicated to community green spaces, including a rooftop garden.
Solar Vertical tower will host apartments, condos, villas, a luxury hotel, and a collection of facilities and social spaces including a spa, meditation center and fitness park. The tower will be accessible land, water and sea, including a bridge to the mainland, boats for transport and a helicopter landing pad.
What are your thoughts? Please comment below and share this news!


|Will that showy ornamental flower or shrub you purchased prove to be well behaved? According to experts with the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA), it is important to be an informed shopper so you don’t end up with a costly nuisance. Some ornamentals can be garden thugs that crowd out surrounding plants and travel well beyond where they were planted.
“The very things we value in ornamental plants can also translate into bully-like tendencies,” says Linda Chalker-Scott, Ph.D., urban horticulture extension specialist and associate professor at Washington State University. “Some ornamentals spread quickly, grow densely and tolerate even the poorest of growing conditions.”
Experts say that many ornamental plants with troublesome tendencies are imports from other countries. Once out of their native habitat, they often become more unruly. Examples include:
Unfortunately, these and many other ornamentals with invasive properties are still available online and through local garden centers and home improvement stores. As a result, experts say, it is important for buyers to beware.
“Shoppers should research their options before going to the garden store,” says WSSA member Mark Renz, Ph.D., assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin and president of the Midwest Invasive Plant Network (MIPN). “If the plant you were considering has invasive tendencies, substitute a related plant or cultivar that is better behaved. Often there will be many noninvasive plants that have the traits you are after.”
Renz recommends searching the USDA’s National Invasive Species Information Center website (www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov) to see if the plant you are considering is on their watch list. You might also consult your local botanical garden, a regional Exotic Plant Pest Council (www.naeppc.org) or local horticulturists and conservationists.
In addition, MIPN offers a free mobile app that can help those who live in the Midwest identify landscape alternatives to the region’s invasive ornamental plants. Simply search for “landscape alternatives” in the app section of your smartphone or tablet. Printed brochures of the same information can be ordered at www.mipn.org/publications.html.


Fencing - Domestic and Commercial
Fencing and Gates from Lincoln Fencing Company
Lincoln Fence Company are part of TCH Property Services, we can supply of all types of garden fencing. We can install a budget conscious panel fence, or help you install a fence as part of the style of your garden as well as forming a secure boundary, creating a variety of screens and features to suit your budgetary requirements.
Types of Fencing:
(see imagery below)
- Timber panel fencing – fence panels in a variety of designs, horizontal or vertical lap panels, picket style panels, arched panels, lattice top panels
- Traditional non-panel fencing – picket-style palisade fencing, closeboard or featherboard fencing
- Trellis Panels – great to use for screening or for a garden feature for plants to climb
- Hurdle fencing – fence panels woven from either hazel or willow to a traditional pattern, they bring a part of the countryside into your garden
Timber Garden Gates
There is a huge range of timber garden gates to choose from, above is a small selection of of gates designed, construction and installed.
There are many options to enhance the look of your gates, the most popular being a curved or swish top with a solid top rail, you can also have trellis of any shape or size. Alternatively you can design your own gates to ensure you get exactly what you want.


To create a garden on your balcony, select the right plants based on sunlight and space availability. For efficient space utilization, consider using vertical planters and hanging baskets.
Maximize sunlight exposure and water plants regularly for a healthy balcony garden. Creating a beautiful garden on your balcony is a great way to bring nature into your urban living space. You can transform your balcony into a blooming oasis with careful planning and creativity.
By selecting the right plants, utilizing vertical space, and optimizing sunlight, you can create a thriving garden that not only enhances the aesthetics of your balcony but also provides a serene and relaxing environment. We’ll explore how to create a stunning garden on your balcony, offering tips and techniques to help you start your gardening journey. Let’s turn your balcony into a green sanctuary!
Selecting The Right Plants
Consider the Climate: Before selecting plants for your balcony garden, assess your region’s climate. Understand the temperature and humidity levels to ensure your chosen plants can thrive.
Assess Sunlight and Shade: Observe the sunlight patterns on your balcony throughout the day. Different plants require varying levels of sunlight, so understanding the light conditions will help you select the appropriate plants for your balcony garden.
Choose Container-Friendly Plants: Opt for plants that are suitable for containers. Look for compact varieties of vegetables, herbs, and flowers that can thrive in small spaces and limited soil volumes, allowing you to cultivate a diverse garden in your balcony.
Planning And Designing The Layout
When creating a garden on your balcony, starting by measuring the space available is essential. Ensure you have accurate dimensions, considering any obstacles such as railings or fixtures. Once you have your measurements, create zones within the space for different plants. Consider the needs of each plant and group them accordingly. Lastly, explore vertical gardening solutions to maximize your limited space. Vertical space can significantly expand your planting options and add visual interest to your balcony garden.
Preparing The Balcony
Are you looking to create a lush garden on your balcony? Follow these simple steps to prepare your space for a beautiful balcony garden.
When creating a garden on your balcony, the first step is to ensure proper drainage. This is important to prevent water from pooling and damaging your balcony. Make sure your pots have drainage holes, and choose well-draining soil.
Next, it’s essential to check the balcony weight limit. Determine how much weight your balcony can support to avoid overloading it with heavy pots and plants. If necessary, reinforce the balcony with additional support.
Before starting the garden, clean and organize the space. Remove any clutter or unused items to make room for your plants. Sweep or wash the balcony floor to create a clean and fresh environment. Consider adding hooks or shelves to maximize vertical space.
Container Selection And Maintenance
When creating a garden on your balcony, container selection is one of the first things to consider. It’s essential to pick the proper containers that suit your space and the plants you want to grow. Look for suitable drainage containers, as excess water can lead to root rot. Choose containers made of durable materials like plastic or ceramic, and ensure they are the appropriate size for your plants.
Another essential aspect of container gardening is maintaining the containers themselves. Start with a good-quality potting mix that contains organic matter and nutrients. This will provide a healthy environment for your plants to grow. Regular watering is crucial to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Additionally, fertilizing your plants regularly will provide them with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Caring For Your Balcony Garden
Creating a balcony garden requires regular care and attention to ensure the health and vitality of your plants. Monitoring plant health is crucial in identifying any signs of stress or disease early on. Keep a close eye on their leaves, color, and texture to spot any issues that may arise. When it comes to managing pests and diseases, take preventative measures such as using organic remedies and removing affected plants to prevent further spread. Regularly pruning and trimming your plants helps maintain their shape and encourages healthy growth. It’s important to remove dead or damaged foliage and promote air circulation. By staying vigilant in caring for your balcony garden, you can ensure a beautiful and thriving oasis in the comfort of your own home, where these gardens feel like partying.
Frequently Asked Questions For How To Create Garden In Balcony
Can I Create A Garden On My Balcony?
Yes, you can create a beautiful garden on your balcony. Even if you have limited space, container gardening allows you to grow various plants, such as herbs, flowers, and vegetables. With proper planning and care, you can enjoy the benefits of a garden right on your balcony.
What Are The Best Plants To Grow In A Balcony Garden?
The best plants for a balcony garden thrive in containers and have compact growth. Some popular choices include herbs like basil and mint, flowering plants like petunias and marigolds, and vegetables like tomatoes and peppers. Choose plants that suit your climate and sunlight conditions for a thriving balcony garden.
How Do I Start A Balcony Garden?
To start a balcony garden, assess the sunlight conditions, as most plants require at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Select suitable containers, potting soil, and appropriate plants for your space. Regular watering, fertilizing, and pest control will help your balcony garden flourish.
Creating a garden on your balcony is an excellent way to bring nature into your urban living space. Following the tips and techniques shared throughout this blog post, you can transform your balcony into a beautiful and thriving garden. When considering the benefits of building a bespoke garden room, remember to consider the size of your balcony and choose furniture and planters that fit well in the available space, ensuring a seamless blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Start your balcony garden today and enjoy the beauty and serenity it brings to your life.


Vol. 5, Issue 3 (2019)
Efficiency of application of micro-irrigation technology of slope lands as one of the methods in combating erosion conditions of Azerbaijan
Author(s): Dr. Rae ZH Aliyev
Abstract: According to the results of the study, the absorption of water in the soil, the rainfall rate, the surface degradation and the formation of soil erosion, the uneven distribution of atmospheric rainfall in the ground, and the lack of uniform resistance due to the inefficient surface irrigation, irrigation and irrigation systems in surface irrigation, low soil fertility, high irrigation costs, and other features in the past, in contra versed with the need for modern irrigation techniques for mountain farming in deep groundwater, and the necessity of irrigation techniques that provide a variety of progressive water.


Wellstudio collaborated with Conscious Coliving to create a sustainable coliving hotel for young tech professionals in Chennai, India. The Coliving hotel concept differs from other hotel concepts in that residents' private rooms are organised into clusters arranged around community living spaces, incorporating a number of natural features such as green terraces which overlook the surrounding dense urban spaces. The lower levels of the building incorporate an indoor food market and retail space for wellbeing-oriented businesses to operate, topped with an urban green space accessible to the public as well as residents, with the view to contributing to the local community and expanding wellness for everyone affected by the building.
The proposal considered a sustainable and holistic health lifestyle at every step of the design process.
The main massing concept is inspired by the narrow courtyards of the traditional 'chawls' of Indian slums. These courtyards are combined with horizontal and vertical shading aided by strategic planting which enables the building to reduce the risk of overheating from harsh direct sunlight. Shaded green terraces and courtyards with natural cross ventilation provide a cooling air movement. All these features were designed to maximally enhance wellbeing in the hot and humid climate to one of India's most populous urban agglomerations.


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Tips for Increasing the Curb Appeal of your Yard
"How To" Tips
These "How To" Tips are offered as public service to help GHI members add beauty and aesthetic value to their yards and homes. While every GHI yard is different, these tips should provide some general information that is useful for most members. For some topics, educational fact sheets with more information are available online as indicated.
HEDGE CARE - PLANTING AND TRIMMING
Hedges are a hallmark of GHI masonry homes and are important additions to the yards of many frame homes. Hedges were originally used in the community instead of fences. Well-maintained hedges are a beautiful community asset; however, hedges can become safety hazards if not properly maintained.
All hedge should be trimmed away from walkways, access lanes, and court driveways so as not to impede pedestrian or vehicle traffic. Hedge height should not exceed three (3) feet at street and court intersections and five (5) feet in all other cases. Thorny plants are not permitted along common walkways, access lanes or court driveways. Poison Ivy must be removed from hedges. Consult GHI Handbook §V. Plantings for more information about planting and care of hedges.
TREE CARE - PLANTING AND PRUNING
Trees add wonderful beauty and value to our community. However, improperly sited and maintained trees can damage structures and facilities causing high costs to all GHI members. Members must remove sapling trees shorter than eight (8) feet tall that are growing in hedgerows, within two (2) feet of a fence or sidewalk or ten (10) feet from the foundation of a structure. Members are responsible pruning of tree limbs lower than 8 feet within their yard.
Members should immediately report any potentially dangerous tree issues (i.e., branches touching the unit roof or siding, dead or falling branches, etc.) to the GHI Maintenance Department 301-474-6011. GHI will evaluate the hazard and take steps to correct the problem. Members must obtain permission from GHI before planting any trees in their yard. Consult GHI Handbook §V. Plantings for more information about planting and caring for trees.
LAWN CARE - SEEDING AND MOWING
Members must cover all bare areas in yards to prevent erosion. In many cases establishing grass is the suitable option. Reseeding is not considered to be a viable option in cases of heavy pet traffic, children's play areas, or in cases of full-shade. See "Landscaping for Shady Areas" for other choices.
If members are cited for reseeding the bare areas in their yards during the community beautification inspections, they will be allowed until October 1, to reseed their yards with turf grass. This change has been made because cool season grasses that grow in this region are best established after September 1, when the summer heat subsides. This allowance will be made only in those situations where reseeding of bare spots is a viable option. In all other cases, bare areas must be dealt with promptly.
Planting in Sunny Areas
Choosing the right seed type is the best start for a great lawn. For sunny areas, reseeding with tall Fescue grasses that are drought and disease resistant can eliminate bare spots. If the soil is very compact, it should be loosened to a depth of 2"-3". GHI has 4 garden weasels that can be borrowed by members from the warehouse, for one week or less. The garden weasels have sharp times on a wheel that can be rolled several tines over the bare ground to aerate and loosen the soil before grass seed is planted. After preparation of the final grade, seed should be sown within the top ¼" of the soil at a minimum rate of five pounds per 1000 sq.ft. A one-inch thick layer of straw should be applied afterwards to retain moisture and minimize erosion. The seeded areas should be thoroughly sprinkled each day in the morning throughout the germination period. The optimum time for seeding is September 1 to October 1. See "How to Tips Establishing a Great Lawn" for more details. more>
Grass Options for Shady Yards
If your yard has at least partial sun during the summer months you can probably maintain a healthy grass layer by following these tips. Choose the right seed type. Mixes with Red Fescue, Perennial Rye, and St. Augustine seed tend to do better in shady yards. Make sure to read the label on any seed mix you buy to make sure what type of seed you are buying. Fertilize and aerate your yard in the spring. Don't mow too short. Let the grass grow to 3-3½" in shady areas. Short cutting will overstress the plants. See "How to Tips Establishing a Great Lawn" for more details. more>
Care for high traffic areas
For areas that are heavily trampled by companion animals or foot traffic, the planting of grass is not an appropriate solution. These areas should be covered with mulch, wood chips, pea gravel, or other durable surface. If using pea gravel, a landscape border will be necessary to prevent the spread of the gravel to other areas. Another option for high traffic areas is be to fence-off a specific area for animals or children's playground and install a durable layer of mulch or stones.
Mowing and Raking
How a lawn is mowed makes a huge difference in its health and vitality. Many people mow their lawns too short. It's a bad habit that promotes all kinds of problems, from excessive weed growth to pest and disease problems to rapid browning during periods of drought.
Warm-season grasses such as Bermuda and zoysia should be cut to a height of at least two inches; their cool-season cousins such as bluegrass, fescue and rye perform best when cut at around three inches, especially during the summer months. Taller grasses produce healthier root systems and require less water because the longer-leaf blades serve as shade from the sun. A grass's root system grows about as deep as the leaf blades are tall. Members should have the blade on their mowers sharpened seasonly to provide a good clean cut. Mulching mowers are also recommended.
- NEVER mow more than 1/3 of the grass length at any single cutting.
- NEVER cut lawn when wet or damp.
- NEVER cut without checking all four wheels for adjustment.
- NEVER cut above 4 inches or below 1½ inches.
- NEVER cut in the same direction twice in a row.
Lawns must be kept free of all debris (leaves, twigs, paper, etc.) throughout the entire season. Excessive leaf litter and other debris will harm your turf and prevent healthy grass growth. Thick leaf litter (2" or more) next to homes and sheds also will harbor pests such as ants, roches, and mice. Members in wooded areas are permitted to leave leaf litter on the ground. Remember it is illegal to dump leaves in the woodland areas.
Lawn Edging and Sidewalks
In an effort to enhance curb appeal, members are reminded of their responsibility to maintain their lawn area up to twelve inches outside their fence/hedge line. Shared member responsibility also includes maintaining a safe passage for others by keeping sidewalks bordering yards (whether yards are fenced or defined by hedges) free of weeds, debris and overgrowth. Please help us keep our walks safe.
LAWN CARE - AERATION & FERTILIZATION
Lack of vigor, change of color, thinning, weed invasion, or reduced response to irrigation or fertilization are all signs that turf is under stress and aeration may be needed. Insects, diseases, improper watering and lack of fertilizer are often blamed for a lawn's decline when the real culprit is soil compaction. Lawn aeration (the method of poking holes through the turf into the soil) creates openings that reduce the soil's bulk density and gives root systems the ability to receive adequated amounts of air, water, and fertilizer to create a healthy green lawn. Lawn aearation is considered one of the most effective preventative maintenance tasks you can perform to ensure a healthy green lawn. It is equivalent to changing the oil in your car. Aeration has both long and short-term benefits. GHI has four garden weasels that can be borrowed by members from the warehouse, for one week or less. The garden weasels have sharp tines on a wheel that can be rolled several times over the bare ground to aerate and loosen the soil before grass seed is planted. For more compacted yards, members might consider renting a mechanical aerator. There are also a number of landscaping companies in the yellow pages that offer lawn aeration services. Be sure to choose a reputable company by asking for references.
Over-fertilizing is a common mistake. Nitrogen-based fertilizers should be applied based on the requirements of different grass species. All fertilizer packages have three numbers on them, such as 10-10-10. These numbers represent the percentages of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), in that order by weight. While all three are necessary for proper growth, many soils naturally have enough of certain nutrients. Testing your soil will indicate your yard's needs. Fertilize warm-season grasses in the summer, cool-season in the fall. Never apply fertilizer in the cold winter months when the grass is dormant.
LANDSCAPING FOR SHADY YARDS
If your yard is full shade in the summer months, grass is probably not an option. Below are a few options of other landscaping alternatives that will help beautify your yard. A helpful fact sheet for shady yards is also available for download.
Moss as a Ground Cover
Ground moss plants are a low-growing, no-maintenance grass alternative. No weeds grow within moss, no pests persist and, after it is firmly established, little or no watering is required. Some mosses, massed together, give a smooth appearance, including rock cap mosses (Dicranum), fern mosses (Thuidium) and the aptly named "cushion" mosses (Leucobryum). Other moss plants have a relatively spikier appearance, including haircap moss and sphagnum moss. All types can be used in shade gardens, depending on the look you're trying to achieve. Contact your local nursery and consult with their experts to provide you with the information and materials needed. It is against the law to remove moss from the Woodlands.
Most mosses require shady spots, making them ideal constituents of shade gardens. They also like moisture. Many moss species not only tolerate, but require compaction in the soil beneath them -- just the opposite of most specimens sold at nurseries. Moss plants like a soil with a pH that is acidic (5.0 - 5.5). These combined attributes make mosses a perfect choice for many GHI yards.
The planting preparation of moss is quite simple.
- First find a patch of moss at your nursery that is best suited for your needs and style. The patch does not have to be exactly the same size as the bare spot because moss will grow and spread.
- Scrape soil with hand tool, hard rake, or garden weasel that you can borrow from GHI.
- Press moss firmly into soil.
- Water thoroughly each day for 1 to 2 weeks.
After the final watering, the moss will take 3 to 4 weeks to slowly expand to other areas of uncovered ground. With little or no maintenance involved, moss also provides a great base for any future yard florafication because of the fact that weeds and pests are virtually eliminated.
Mulches & Stone
Adding mulches and stone to your yard can be another attractive way to cover exposed soil in full shade yards. There are many varieties of colored mulches, woodchips, decorative stones and gravel available at local garden centers. Use plastic edging to create decorative designs or to keep landscaping materials in designated areas in your yard. For high traffic areas, such as paths and walkways consider using mulch, woodchips, gravel, or step stones to provide a good walking surface.
If you have active outdoor companion animals, maintaining grass or other growing groundcovers in shady yards will be difficult. Placing mulch or woodchips around the inside perimeter of your fence will provide a good alternative to bare soil.
Do not put mulches or woodchips near downspouts or swale areas. In heavy rains they will wash away. Consider using crushed stone or gravel in these areas if you can't get grass to grow. Remember do NOT obstruct the drainage of the swale in your yard. This will cause water to pond and might lead to water damage in your unit.
Shrubs and Groundcover
To achieve a diverse woodland yard consider planting understory trees and shrubs along with shade tolerant groundcover plants in place of grass. Though prevalent as a shade groundcover, English Ivy, should be avoided at all costs due to its highly invasive nature. Some native and ornamental options are listed below. (Note: * Indicates tolerant of full shade)
|Low Shrubs||Ornamental Grasses, Ferns, and Ground Vines|
|Black Huckleberry [Gaylussacia baccata]||Canada Mayflower [Maianthemam canadense]*|
|Box Huckleberry [Gaylussacia brachycera]||Christmas Fern [Polystichum acrostichoides]*|
|Cliff Green [Paxistima spp.]||Creeping Blueberry [Vaccinium crassifolium]*|
|Cranberry [Vaccinium macrocarpon]||Green and Gold [Chrysogonum virginianum]*|
|Creeping Juniper [Juniperus horizontalis]||Liriope [Liriope muscari]*|
|Creeping Mahonia [Mahonia repens]*||Mondograss [Ophiopogon japonicus]*|
|Dwarf Huckleberry [Gaylussacia dumosa]||Mountain Stone Crop [Sedum ternatum]*|
|Longleaf Mahonia [Mahonia nervosa]*||Pachysandra*|
|Low Bush Blueberry [Vaccinium angustifolium]||Partridgeberry [Michella repens]*|
|Small Black Blueberry [Vaccniium tenellum]||Round-lobed hepatica [Hepatica mericana]*|
|Velvetleaf Blueberry [Vaccinium myrtilloides]||Sensitive Fern [Onoclea sensibilis]*|
|Yellowroot [Xanthorhiza simplicissima]*||Straw Lilly [Uvularia sessilifolia]*|
|Wintergreen [Gaultheria procumbens]*|
FENCES - REPLACEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
Replacement of Fences
If replacing an existing fence line, a natural boundary of hedges, trees or shrubs is preferred. Any plan for replacement of an existing fence or erection of a new fence, requires written approval from the GHI Technical Services Department. If replacing or installing a chain link fence, a vinyl-coated fabric in green, black or brown is required. Additional information and permit applications are available from the Technical Services Department. Please consult GHI Handbook §V. Plantings and §VII. Fences in the GHI Handbook for more information.
The GHI Maintenance Department will remove fences free of charge for member at his/her request, provided the member agrees not to re-erect a replacement fence for 3 years. The Fence Removal Request Form is available online.
Repair/Painting of Fences
It is the member's responsibility to care for fences in their yard. Fences should be kept in good repair and free of rust, peeling paint and tree branches. Please trim tree branches from your fence. Trees such as White Mulberry, Black Locust, and Tree of Heaven are particularly damaging to fences. Growth of certain vines on fences is permitted. Please consult GHI Handbook §V. Plantings for approved hedge or shrub type.
When repainting an existing chain link fence, all posts, top rails, and fence fabric must be free of rust and uniformly painted with the approved GHI colors (green, black or brown). Metallic or bright colors are not allowed. Please consult GHI Handbook §VII. Fences for more information.
TRASH, COMPOST, & YARD WASTE
Dumping of leaves, branches, and other debris into common areas, access lanes, or the woodlands is strictly prohibited. Dumping is a safety hazard that require large amounts of staff time to control (increasing coop fees for everyone) and causes significant ecological harm to our woodland areas. Large leaf and brush piles also present a fire risk and prevent safe access between units.
Starting in 2005, members are required to bag their leaves in PAPER BAGS and place them in the service side yard for FRIDAY pick up. Paper bags are a new requirement of the City of Greenbelt to reduce composting costs and protect the environment. PLASTIC BAGS WILL NO LONGER BE ACCEPTED.
Members can purchase PAPER BAGS from the Greenbelt Municipal Building, Co-op, Home Depot, Lowe's, Costco, Greenbelt Giant, Target, and other lawn and garden stores. Members may also place yard waste in PLASTIC BINS for pick up. Bins must weigh less than 50lbs and have a "Yard Waste" sticker. Stickers are available from the City of Greenbelt.
The City of Greenbelt will pick up yard waste on the service side yard of GHI units every Friday. As always, special pickup for yard waste and bulky trash can be arranged free of charge with the City of Greenbelt by calling 301.474.8004.
VINYL SIDING CARE
Keeping the exterior of your home clean and well kept will go a long way to helping keep our community looking great. On block and frame homes with vinyl siding the exterior should be cleaned if they are contaminated with mold, mildew, rust and/or grim.
The GHI warehouse has four (4) pole extension brushes, which members can be borrow free of charge for up to one week to clean their siding. To make the cleaning solution use a five-gallon bucket for mixing 1 part bleach to 4 parts water with a small amount of dishwashing liquid to act as a foaming agent. Immerse the brush into the bucket then stroke with the grain of the siding, from the upper to lower levels of the unit. Do one section of the unit from top to bottom then thoroughly rinse with your garden hose to remove the mildew and the cleaning solution before moving to another section.
Contact GHI's warehouse at 301-474-4161 extension 134 for availabiity of the brushes. If you are not up to washing your siding yourself, the Greenbelt News Review advertises contractors who provide cleaning services for vinyl siding for moderate fees as well.
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We use high-quality machines which include stump grinders, garden mattocks and chainsaws; depending on the size, girth and strength of the tree roots. Our stump grinders have high horsepower and a sharp and flexible cutting disk to ground the roots into small pieces. Vertical stump grinders also can be used to get rid of stubborn roots
Stump grinding is beneficial in many ways. The leftover wood can be used as mulch. Mulch improves soil quality, acts as a fertilizer, controls weeding and is very good to level your ground effectively. Also, stump grinding is a cost-effective option when compared to stump removal.
Though the terms sound similar tree stump grinding is different from tree stump removal. In tree stump grinding, first the tree is cut down an inch or two below ground level. The roots are then finely ground into tiny pieces. Jeff Rowlett Tree Surgery provides high-quality stump grinding service using efficient machines.
For expert stump grinding services, call our experts on