It has been raining hard for about the last 24 hours and the low parts of the garden are inundated. First the freeze and now the floods.
So are the lower parts of the fields. Joel has been out opening up ditches directing the water toward the pond.
Which is now full and flowing out the overflow. We'll be grateful for all this water net summer when we need it for irrigation.


Award Winning Landscape & Pool Builder
It starts with a visit to your property to meet and talk about your vision. Measurements will be taken of your property for our designers.
Our Designers will take into consideration your vision to create a first draft 2d drawing. Any changes/revisions should be made on this 2d concept.
Once finalized your 2d drawing will be made into a 3d concept drawing. Once completed you will have a real visual of what your property will look like.
Once all drawings/plans are finalized you get to watch your vision turn into reality. A date is set and the next step is construction.


Acer shirasawanum 'Sensu'
Size: 5-6 feet
Growth Habit: round-topped tree reaching 12-15 feet high
USDA Zone: 5-9
Exposure: filter to full sun
Growing Conditions: acidic, well drained soil
Comments: Leaves emerge yellow-green with pink-red margins. Mature to dark green. Fall color is a pleasing orange. Breezes move the leaves like many small-folded fans. The English translation means "fan".
NOTE: Too large to ship in our boxes. Nursery pickup only


If you’ve been wondering about how to start a garden or looking for ways to improve your existing garden, then you probably must have come across the term’ topsoil.’ Topsoil that is naturally found in the native soil of a garden is different from the topsoil available in local nurseries or home centers.
To help you better understand what role it plays in the effective growth of plants, first, let’s discuss what topsoil for gardening is.
What is Topsoil for Gardening?
Topsoil refers to the topmost layer of soil present on the earth’s surface and is found in native soil. The topsoil layer’s depth depends mostly on its location and can be five to twelve inches deep, with numerous variations in texture and material compilations.
For gardening purposes, slit, sandy, and clay topsoil must be avoided as they retain moisture easily and prevent air from reaching the plant roots below. However, loamy topsoil is an excellent option for gardening as they’re organically rich in matter, provide adequate moisture, and support an entire ecosystem of favorable microbial life that supply nutrients for plants’ healthy growth.
The best type of topsoil includes a loamy texture with a mixture of:
- 7% t0 27% clay
- 28% to 50% silt
- Under 52% of sand.
These topsoils are easier to till and have a low water-retention capacity. In contrast to garden soil, topsoil is usually sold in greater quantities for extensive landscaping needs. Furthermore, topsoil is more of a general-purpose soil mixture and may not be blended with as organic matter or fertilizer as some garden soils.
Characteristics of Topsoil for Gardening
The key nutrients found in topsoil are:
- Phosphorous: used to generate plant cells and DNA.
- Nitrogen: promotes healthy leaves and stems and is mainly used for plant growth.
- Magnesium: assist the plant in photosynthesizing and generating lush green leaves.
- Potassium: aids in creating green leaves and helps in the photosynthesis process.
Each one of these nutrients has a crucial role to play in the soil’s fertility and is naturally found in topsoil but varying quality and quantity. All these nutrients can be added to increase the fertility or enrich the soil while also improving its structure.
Structure and Composition
Topsoil structure and composition vary significantly from area to area, and it’s continuously under the influence of the surrounding environment. Generally, individuals talk about using either sandy or clay soils in their gardens. However, clay soils are harder to work with because they usually harden up, and the essential nutrients are sealed up in sticky soil. Nevertheless, they do clench water a lot better than other soils.
On the other hand, sandy soil is loamier and is more suitable for gardening. It is nutrient-rich, dark in color, friable, and light in weight. To test its structure, it ought to be hard to roll up in a ball, but easier and quicker to break up.
An ideal quality of topsoil must have a pH value of 5.5 to 7.5. In other words, it should be mildly acidic to somewhat alkaline. Having the correct pH level helps to ensure that the plants can successfully draw nutrients from the ground. Though several plants can cope with varying pH levels, numerous problems can arise if the soil is too alkaline or too acidic.
Keeping in mind that having a suitable pH value is not the only vital component of good topsoil; it also requires an open structure to ensure adequate drainage and aeration that stops nutrient lock-up.
Some suppliers talk about organic topsoil, but this is usually very misleading. True organic topsoil requires to be acquired from a certified organic field, and that would be ridiculously expensive. Hence, a more appropriate decision would be to get screened soil that has been enriched by mixing organic composts to it to increase its organic content.
The method of screening topsoil includes working the soil over a big screen or mesh to sieve lumps and stones out of the soil and to aerate it. Screen size must be 25mm for infill soil and 10mm or less for high-quality soils.
What is Topsoil Used for?
What is Topsoil Used for? Topsoil purchased from the garden center can be an efficient and inexpensive way to amend your garden lawn and bed. There are many different topsoil kinds in the market, so make sure that you pick the best suited for your gardening need.
Provide Adequate Nutrients
Good topsoil includes the essential nutrients for the survival of your plants. It can greatly help protect seedlings and plants and solve soil problems like improper pH levels. This kind of topsoil is considered to be blended topsoil and is quite similar to garden soil. In many ways, garden and topsoil can be considered one-and-the-same as they perform uniform functions when amalgamated with native soil.
Improve Soil Drainage
Some blended topsoils can help to improve soil drainage. Mixing organic matter with sandy-blend topsoil and combining it into the native soil would help you achieve better drainage, letting water penetrate deeper and contribute to stronger root development.
Blended topsoil can be used for several in-ground applications, such as:
- Areas affected by soil erosion
- New builds life new garden beds or lawns or replacing an old paved area with new plants.
- Heavily used or damaged areas of lawns
Due to these benefits, you may need to use less water and reduce the use of pesticides, providing you with extra time to focus on the other facets of your garden, like harvesting, planting, seasonal swap-outs, and more.
Top-Dressing for Damaged Areas
Topsoil is most commonly used as a top-dressing for the damaged areas of your garden or lawn. For this purpose, bagged topsoil is generally used as it typically involves little nutrient value but works great as a filler or top-dressing. It works excellently to fill in low spots, bare spots, or beaten down areas that have been heavily trafficked.
Topsoil should be several inches deep; hence if your topsoil is slim or nonexistent, it would be good to apply topsoil in your garden. However, before purchasing, check the topsoil ingredients, and look for garden soils or specialty blends if you require pH correction, improved drainage, or more nutrients.
How to Know If a Topsoil is Good?
Good topsoil should be mineral and nutrient-rich and must support plants’ growth in your garden or lawn. When searching for good topsoil, you can consider the following things to ensure its quality before making a final purchase. To examine the topsoil quality, you should:
Choose a Soil with a Darker Tone
The more organic matter in the soil, the better will be the chance your plants thriving. Topsoil that is light in color shows that it lacks this organic material and would ultimately hamper the growth of all plants you’re trying to grow.
Moreover, be sure to check the surface of the topsoil for a white or light residue. This may denote the presence of lime or salts, both of which can lead to toxic effects on a lawn or a garden.
- Black topsoil shows a lack of minerals in the soil. Therefore, search for something that is dark brown and not black.
- If the topsoil you want to purchase has already been packaged, request the owner if there’s any sample soil to look at.
- If the topsoil is gray or blue-green, it indicated that it had been continuously saturated or wet, which is not good. Therefore, avoid purchasing soil that looks like this.
Touch the Soil
Always touch the soil to ensure it has a good texture and is crumbly. A swift run of your fingers through the topsoil will provide you with a good idea of what it is made up of. Good topsoil must always crumble in your fingers.
You must feel the grit in it, which shows that essential minerals like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium are present in it. Never buy soil that is hard because it indicates a low level of organic matter.
- Soil that easily clumps up into large chunks or balls is too rich in clay.
- Make sure there aren’t any weed roots or large stone as they’re bad for topsoil.
- Topsoil rich in clay impedes the plant’s ability to aerate and prevents water from effectually reaching the roots.
Wet Sample Soil
Always wet a sample of the topsoil to determine what it is made of. Topsoil should ideally be a combination of sand, slit, and clay.
- Take a portion of wet topsoil in the palm of your hand.
- Rub the soil around with your fingers and pour a little more water onto it while it is in your hand.
- As it becomes wetter, you can physically feel fits properties.
- Smooth soil means it has high silt, gritty soil denotes high sand, and stickiness signifies high clay.
- The ideal topsoil must be dark in color and possess a combination of grittiness, stickiness, and smoothness. You must not want anyone element dominating the topsoil rather it needs to be an equal amalgamation of all three
Smell the Soil
Good topsoil would always smell sweet, hence avoiding any soil with an off-odor or smells like a chemical such as gasoline. Such smells indicate unnatural and unwanted chemicals that can hamper plants’ growth and make for terrible topsoil.
Good topsoil requires hundreds of years to develop naturally. If the topsoil smells like rotting material, ensure to stay clear of it.
Topsoil Myths and Misunderstandings
If you have ever found yourself in a garden store, staring in confusion at all the bags of soil amendments, then there are some things you must know. Here are a few topsoil myths and misunderstandings that can trip you up.
Myth #1: All Topsoil is Same
Topsoil can vary severely even in the same lawn and from one garden bed to another. All the soil in your garden is made up of clay, silt, and sand in different amounts and substantial decomposed plant matter i.e., organic matter.
The ideal mix of soil offers nutrients and lets adequate air reach the roots and allows better drainage to create a perfect place for plants to thrive. Often topsoil includes weed seeds, so do not be surprised or worried if you need to work on eliminating them for a few years after you start a new bed or plot.
Myth #2: Yard Dirt Can Be Used for a New Garden Bed Instead of Topsoil
This isn’t entirely wrong, but, in most cases, you should not. Soil contains varying amounts of organic matter that helps to provide topsoil with good drainage, loose, and easy to dig quality. Whereas soil lying around the yard does not include sufficient organic matter.
This is why gardeners usually opt for topsoil or use other soil amending products like compost to increase organic matter. Buying topsoil is the easiest and quickest way to ensure great garden soil.
Myth #3: Good Topsoil Requires Annual Tilling
Once you raise a new garden bed or create a garden from scratch using good soil, simply avoid stepping and compacting it. If you make sure this is followed, you will not have to till it each year. To help you achieve this, build a raised garden bed, and avoid stepping over them.
Moreover, if your garden isn’t elevated, build permanent pathways to ensure no one compacts that soil you have worked so hard on.
You may like following gardening tutorials:
- How to Add Calcium to Soil: How Do I Add Calcium to my Garden?
- How to Improve Soil for Gardening
- What Is Clay Soil and How to Improve It
- How to hydroponics – a how to guide to soil free gardening
- Top 8 Best Soil for Tomatoes
- How to Keep Your Garden Clean (14 Ways)
Choosing the right topsoil for your garden can play a huge role in your plants’ growth and development. Therefore, make sure you study your garden soil and determine what it requires to help the garden thrive and flourish. We hope this article helps you understand what is topsoil for gardening and its role in achieving a blooming, lush green garden is. To learn more about gardening, head to the blog section on our website.
I am Elsa, love gardening. I spent lots of time with plants, flowers, it gives me lots of happiness.
I am sharing all the practical tips on how to grow various plants, flower plants, vegetables in the garden. Read more about me.


We are delighted to have provided bespoke garden designs to a wide range of clients across West London; in Ickenham, Pinner, Eastcote, Northwood, Ruislip, Gerrards Cross and beyond.
Please browse a selection of what they have had to say….
"Rhoda is a very creative designer, and proved to be an excellent project manager. The result has been widely acclaimed by everyone who has seen it. Rhoda is very professional, and a delight to work with.”
R.H – Wimbledon
"We asked Rhoda to do the impossible – redesign our garden so it would have maximum impact with minimum maintenance. Looks to us like she’s hit the brief spot on – fantastic work!”
J.G – Northwood
“The attention to detail throughout the planning, design and actual execution of the work was impressive and all stages of the project carried out to a very high standard…..wish we’d done this years ago!!"
J.C – Ruislip
“Rhoda is a great garden designer with a skill and attention to detail that makes her projects both inspire and work practically.”
A.F – Central London
"This has given us back the enthusiasm to spend more time and enjoy the garden again!!"
Z.R – Northwood
“I absolutely love it. So pleased with the transformation. Thank you so much for your inspired design.”
G.G – Uxbridge
“It’s delightful – you gave me exactly what I wanted.”
L.S – Ickenham
"Thank you so much for all your lovely work on the garden – we love it!"
J.C – Ruislip Manor
“It’s great to have another room to use – an extension of the house. Mum’s chuffed to bits."
T.K – Gerrards Cross
“The garden is absolutely lovely! Thank you so much for all your hard work throughout the 'project'.”
N.J – London
“Just wanted to say a million thank yous for all you’ve done in the garden. It’s fab and I’m delighted.”
S.K – Gerrards Cross
“A beautifully transformed garden with a professional service with good management of contractors. Thank you!”
P.T – Ickenham
“After doing some research, I had a reasonably clear idea of what I was looking for in developing our family garden. Rhoda interpreted my brief perfectly, and I was delighted with the initial design, which was then professionally facilitated by Rhoda and her team, who I would not hesitate to recommend.”
M.D – Ickenham
"..The front garden is an absolute delight and every time I approach/leave the house I thank you for making it so! Even passersby stop and look, some even pass by then come back to take a longer look so you’ve definitely made a big impact with your design."
J.C – Ruislip
"It was lovely to work with Rhoda as she listened, observed and gently guided me through the project and all within time and budget. She has transformed my tired overgrown garden into an oasis of calm and light with modern decking and some new planting. I am looking forward to seeing it mature through the seasons."
D.L – Pinner
“Rhoda designed and delivered exactly what we were looking for from our Garden, we cannot recommend her enough!”
F.S – Eastcote
"It's all looking lovely! Thanks for my fab new garden. I love it!"
N.J – Clapham
“…many thanks for what you have done, the garden has come to life now and I'm looking forward to enjoying it.”
C.D – Northolt
“Rhoda created a planting design that achieved everything we wanted. We outlined our aspirations for the garden at our first meeting and Rhoda met our requirements fully and with attention to detail. The process was easy and it was great to be provided with clear plans and bespoke documentation describing the characteristics and care needs for each plant. We now have a garden that will be a pleasure to look at all year round.”
A.M – Harrow
"I’m so enjoying the garden, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done."
G.G – Hillingdon
"Just wanted to say thank you for turning our garden from a soggy mess into somewhere beautiful to sit and relax. …... Everyone who has seen it has commented on how lovely it is."
T.T – Ickenham


Prunus virginiana Schubert
|Sold out: |
Economy or Premium SelectionEconomy - rooted into its pot but a further season before moving up a pot size.
Premium - more growth in its pot. More mature than Economy
Makes a delightful small tree of conical form with stunning deep red-purple mature foliage and small white flowers in May.


JBM Solar are proposing to develop a solar farm South of the Whitnash area of Royal Leamington Spa.
The project will generate enough renewable energy to power over 14,800 homes in addition to providing substantial ecological enhancements to the site, including the installation of bee hives, bird boxes and the creation of a 21 acres of wildflower meadow and scrub habitat.
Established in 2012, the JBM Solar team has a proven track record of developing solar farms in the UK and Ireland, with over 750MW consented.
JBM prides itself on understanding the views of local residents and constituents in order to improve the proposals based on local knowledge and input. Furthermore, a focus is placed on ensuring the biodiversity on-site is preserved, alongside the implementation of considerable environmental and ecological enhancements, resulting in a net gain of over 30% to be achieved.
Overall, the site comprises an area of approximately 230 acres, split across three land parcels, which will contain the solar PV panels, battery storage equipment, ancillary infrastructure, areas for landscape planting, ecological enhancements and biodiversity improvement, and internal access tracks. The development will generate enough electricity for 14,800 houses per annum and save around 371,000 tonnes of CO2. JBM have plans to plant up to 2 km of tree/hedgerow enhancement as well as the creation of 21 acres of wild-flower meadow and scrub habitat. Other features such as insect hotels, log piles, bird boxes and shelters will also be implemented.


Porcelain Paving Samples are 100x100mm.
- Low Maintenance
- Scratch Resistant
- Non-Slip Surface
- Durable & Hard-Wearing
- Resistant To Water Absorption
Our ‘Anthracite’ Italian Porcelain Paving features a Slate effect finish and adds a high-end, sophisticated look to any garden or patio. There is no need for Porcelain to be sealed or treated, making it a popular option which will withstand harsh weather with little upkeep needed! Add a beautiful modern edge to your exterior space with this low maintenance stone.
Our Porcelain range offers a non-slip surface which is resistant to abrasions and stains. Meaning that your Paving will stay looking new throughout the year.
The state-of-the-art manufacturing process makes it strong enough to support vehicles and heavy loads, making it a great option for driveways. The scratch-resistant surface also prevents water absorption, giving the stone it’s low maintenance quality.
Related Blog Posts:


Gentoo has signed a deal with with affordable house builder Adderstone Living to finish the 86 new homes.
Rebecca Bewick, Head of Delivery at Gentoo said: “I know this news will be welcomed by nearby residents and those on the housing register who have understandably been frustrated with the delays. With 30,000 people on Gentoo’s housing register the need for more quality, affordable housing has never been greater.”
Adderstone Living managing director Stephen McCoy said: “Our business was delighted to be appointed by Gentoo on the Eskdale Rise project. We appreciate the importance of the scheme and the impact the delay has had on local residents so our team are already underway on site to deliver this scheme as quicky and safely as possible.”
The new development will transform the local area and will incorporate green space for both new and existing residents to enjoy, while also addressing the ongoing anti-social behaviour issues in the area. The development plans to include 6,920 sq. metres of landscaping and the planting of 108 trees and 2685 shrubs.


Japanese influences give this Perthshire home and its garden a connection that enhances and benefits both
Regardless of the season, a garden should encourage you to unwind, relax and connect with the outdoors. During the summer, it might be the bright colour of the flowers that draws you out; by winter, when the leaves and petals have fallen and there’s snow on the ground, it’s the crisp change in season that makes the outside so appealing. If you are lucky enough to have a garden that complements your home, the two need not feel like separate entities. The dividing line between inside and out becomes blurred and, before you know it, you are on the deck, having drinks in the cold night air, lit up by the stars.
This project – a new house built within an existing Edwardian walled garden – owes much of its success to the architect, Ewan Cameron, and the landscape architect, Susan Gallagher, considering it as a whole, where the building informs its surroundings, and vice versa, and the two work together in harmony.
“We always design our gardens to complement the architecture of the house,” explains Gallagher, of Glasgow-based Terra Firma Gardens. “That means materials and layout are determined by the architectural style and period of the building. This ensures the garden looks and feels like an extension to the house, rather than an unrelated appendage.”
While the Edwardian walled garden was an undoubted source of ideas, both the architect and the landscape architect have also drawn inspiration from elsewhere, particularly Eastern cultures. Indeed, one of Cameron’s trademarks as an architect is the subtle influence of the Far East and the introduction of elements of Chinese and Japanese structures to his designs. He lived and worked in Hong Kong and Singapore for a time and has travelled widely in the region, and the impact of seeing the Japanese temples of Kyoto and the gardens of Suzhou in China has left a lasting impression on him.
“Experiencing at first-hand the compelling symbiosis of architecture and nature to be found in these World Heritage Sites was a moment of revelation for me,” he says.
This villa in Perthshire was one of the first designs Cameron completed following his return to Scotland, and the effect can be seen in everything from the lighting to the glazing and the orientation of the building. He planned the villa so that it would harness as much natural light as possible and then redirect it through the spacious, understated four-bedroom interior. “As you approach it, there is no sense of what lies behind the original, high brick wall,” he says. “Beyond this, the villa initially retains its sense of intrigue, echoing the original wall in slate. But once through the entrance, the house reveals its true nature: two interconnecting glass pavilions, one for living and one for sleeping.”
This is just a taster, you can browse the full article with more stunning photography on pages 130-136, issue 110.
Photography Helen McCrorie
Words Catherine Coyle
The brief To create an easily maintained garden that complements the spacious new-build house.
Budget £100,000 (for the garden).
Timescale The house was completed in 18 months; the garden was completed in 10 to 12 weeks.
Garden designer Susan Gallagher, Landscape architect Terra Firma Gardens
Architect Ewan Cameron


Eastleach House, Eastleach Martin, Cirencester,
Gloucestershire GL7 3NW
In Eastleach House you can find a wonderful garden. David and Stephanie Richards moved to Eastleach House in 1982, with the idea of making a traditional English country garden from scratch. The transformation from a dark forbidding wilderness has taken 25 year.
After hundred years you can see this! I think you can walk without my comments. This garden with wonderful colors and styles is only a dream!


On Site Consultation
Up to 1.5 hour visit $60
During this on site initial consultation we will meet one another and discuss the current condition of the site. We will discuss a design vision and assess your needs and wants of the landscape. Consultations may be given if you would like general ideas to develop on your own or if you would like a design. Typical topics discussed during the consultation may include:
- general design ideas
- plant identification
- transplanting and other gardening tips
- overall landscape management
- to do list for the do-it-yourselfer
- plant health, pruning suggestions
- setting up a homestead, vegetable garden
Before our consultation I like to learn about your desires before we meet. Please fill out the form under the Contact & Forms page before our consultation.
After the consultation I will format our consultation into a document to email you.
The consultation fee is due at the time of the consultation by cash only. Please, no checks for the consultation.
*Travel fee for locations outside of Lexington is $0.75 per mile
$50 per hour
I may be present to work with do-it-yourselfers or contractors, etc. to see that the plan is carried out as intended. If you need general help gardening, I can help you get started with proper planting, plant placement, laying bed lines, picking plants out at a nursery, etc.
Professional Garden Design
Designs can be made for a wide scope of projects. Small perennial bed, a container garden, or a full site plan for residences, businesses, private or public gardens, parks, and more.
Sometimes clients have a clear vision on what they want, but sometimes I work with clients to help them know what they like and what they want they want their landscape to be. During the design process I work with a client to develop the design. In the beginning this may mean looking over some very simple concept sketches and sharing idea books through Pinterest or Houzz. If you’re unsure about a budget for your project, I can also work with you to sort those details.
Please contact me to learn more about the design process.
A final design will include a scaled drawing which may be used for installation purposes. The design may also include representational images, a design board, or a series of other drawings if needed.
An estimate of the cost of design work will be given after the initial consultation. This is calculated upon the simplicity or complexity of the design work envisioned and length of project. During a return visit, 50% of the design estimate is required and remaining balance is due upon completion and delivery of design materials. An installation quote can also be delivered at this time as well.
Design Time Frame
Designs can be started at any point throughout the year. The time to create a design depends on the scope of the project and how many clients we have at a given time. The warmer months are our busiest times. Fall time is a wonderful time to get started on a design so installation may begin in the spring.
The time for a design to be created depends on many factors. The design phase can begin at any time of year, but installation phases may vary depending on the weather at that time of year.
We are currently able to provide installations for projects including removals, and planting of annuls, perennials, small shrubs and trees, mulching, and small sections of landscape pavers or decorative stones.
Projects are assessed for installation services at the time of consultation and design work stages. We are able to work with contractors and other businesses of your choice on larger projects concerning large amounts removals, ponds and fountains, decking, hardscaping. We have a preferred hardscaping company we work with that is excellent in their work.
Installation time frames depend on the scope of the project and time of year. We may work on an installation any time of year, but certain plants or phases of the design may be best planted until cold or hot weather breaks.


Newspaper used in full sheets is a good weed blocker. Use a thickness of two to four sheets. Whether using it shredded or whole, newspaper usually needs to be topped off with another mulch to keep the wind from blowing it away.
DIY Ideas For Creating Cool Garden or Yard Brick Projects
The Importance of Mulch in the Winter. Like presents from Santa Claus, mulch seems to be that mysterious gift of woodchips most people assume little Tree Elves leave in a nice layer around the base of some lucky trees.


GARDENING GUIDESNew Ways to Think About All That Mulch in the Garden
Before you go making a mountain out of a mulch hill, learn the facts about what your plants and soil really wantFull Story
DECORATING GUIDESWhat Is Millennial Style, and Why Will It Be Trendy?
Vintage items, wallpaper, recycled wood. Young people prefer decor that’s affordable, cheerful and sustainableFull Story
PLANTING IDEASGreat Garden Combo: Planting for Fiery Color and Beautiful Wildlife
Draw winged wonders while maintaining a strong design aesthetic to please human visitors to your garden year-roundFull Story
PLANTING IDEASHedgers and Edgers: The 10 Best Shrubs for Structure
Find out about top picks for privacy screens, formal hedges and low-growing bordersFull Story


Jacqueline lives in a terraced house in the middle of the city centre, with limited access to her garden from the front of the property.
She wanted to make the best use of the space but wasn’t sure what could be achieved, so she contacted MH Landscapes for our opinion.
When we first visited, the garden was in a very sorry state, full of weeds and mounds of soil.
Her aim was for a simple, contemporary style with very low maintenance.
We had to carry all materials carefully though her house which made it an extremely labour intensive project.
In spite of this, in just 15 days we were able to transform her garden from an abandoned plot to a clean and contemporary urban haven.
Initially, our team spent a lot of time levelling the ground so as to give a flat surface.
Once this had been done, we laid an Astro Turf low maintenance lawn.
This was surrounded with a brick border and gravel flower bed, suitable for housing pot plants.
We screened the left-hand boundary with Venetian trellis.
Feather-edge fencing was erected along the right boundary.
Our last big job was to lay a large Black Limestone patio at the rear of the property, which provided a place to eat and relax in the warmer weather.
Finally, strategically placed solar lighting gives a warm glow when needed.
“The team have worked so hard and made such an effort to transform my garden with the restricted access. I am very happy and look forward to enjoying it with friends over the weekend!”


The Riverfront Development Corp. is making changes and additions as it moves forward with its two main riverfront projects, Beale Street Landing and the historic cobblestone landing at the terminus of Union Avenue, while announcing additional public meetings about the Mud Island land use study.
After holding two public meetings about the riverfront cobblestone area, the organization received some comments about trying to preserve boat docking at the site and about using riprap, a type of course stone that protects the river bank from erosion, for part of the project.
The RDC’s initial plans involve a walkway along the west side of the cobblestones along the Mississippi River, connecting Beale Street Landing and Jefferson Davis Park. This walkway would be underwater during the winter due to the river’s fluctuations.
Its plan also include three walkways going east and west from Riverside Drive’s sidewalk to the proposed western walkway.
The RDC is also considering a 300-foot canoe and kayak access ramp at the cobblestones near Jefferson Davis Park.
It will be sending comments from public meetings to the Tennessee Department of Transportation and then will continue to tweak the project.
The RDC is also moving forward with the Beale Street Landing project, taking bids for the fourth phase next month. This phase will involve constructing a building with a grass roof which overlooks the guitar pick-shaped islands.
It will probably be used for a restaurant.
The RDC also unveiled a small-scale model of a 52-foot stainless steel and concrete structure slated for Beale Street Landing’s plaza at the terminus of Beale Street.
The UrbanArt Commission guided the project, which is part of the City of Memphis’ “Percentage for Art” program.
Chicago artist Evan Lewis is building the sculpture, which will have metal parts which are moved by the wind. It will have 14-foot clearance so that people can walk underneath it.
The UrbanArt Commission is also working with Denver artist Carolyn Braaksma to develop a quilt-inspired design for the walkway to the south of the Evans sculpture.
The arts organization has also selected three finalists for its lighting project on the bridge, which will connect the University of Memphis’ new law school and Confederate Park.
The RDC will host two more public meetings on the Mud Island land use study, Sept. 29 at the Memphis Botanic Gardens and Oct. 1 at Harbor Landing on Mud Island. Both events are at 5:45 p.m.


Rosmarinus officinalis 'Arp'
|Description||More cold-hardy than most, it quickly forms an upright hedge of aromatic needle-like foliage that has a very good flavor for culinary use. Profuse clear-blue flowers provide additional landscape value. Well-suited to regular pruning for small topiaries. Evergreen.|
|Watering||Once established water during dry spells.|
|Blooms||Spring through summer|
|Mature Size||Moderate growing; reaches 6 ft. tall, 2 to 4 ft. wide.|
|Landscape Use||Border, Container, Hedge|
|Design Ideas||Rosemary is a fabulous aromatic herb for arid gardens. It is a beautiful foundation shrub that provides year around coverage of utilities and footings. The plant is a staple for banks, and both cut and fill slopes where it thrives in full sun with express drainage. Add it to the Mediterranean parterre garden as a hedge or single specimen. Treasured for parterres in the French or Italian style. Naturalizes in hot dry climates to add interest to native plantings or international xeriscape composition. Belongs in every kitchen garden, veggie plot and herb garden. Rosemary makes an excellent potted plant, particularly in terra cotta for porch or patio.|
|Companion Plants||Lavender (Lavandula); Bay Laurel (Laurus); Pomegranate (Punica); Fig (Ficus); Meyer Lemon (Citrus)|
|Care||Thrives in loose, well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soils. Water deeply, regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system; reduce frequency once established. Avoid excess winter moisture. Needs little care; can be fertilized lightly in spring. Prune to maintain desired shape.|
This Plant's Growing Zones: 6-10
We cannot currently ship this product to your zip code.
No Retailers found within 50 miles of your zipcode
We have been pioneers and craftsmen in the art of growing plants for nearly
100 years. Since our founding in Southern California by Harry E. Rosedale, Sr.
in 1926, we have been absolutely dedicated and obsessed with quality.
We have been pioneers and craftsmen in the art of growing plants for nearly 100 years. Since our founding in Southern California by Harry E. Rosedale, Sr. in 1926, we have been absolutely dedicated and obsessed with quality.


Petworth, town (parish), Chichester district, administrative county of West Sussex, historic county of Sussex, southern England. The parish adjoins the great park of Petworth House, now owned by the National Trust. The mansion itself was largely rebuilt (1688–96) by Charles Seymour, 6th duke of Somerset, and contains a noted art collection. Its deer park was landscaped in the 18th century by Lancelot (“Capability”) Brown. Pop. (2001) 2,775; (2011) 3,027.


Hulena Architects Ltd
3 Heather Street,
09 524 6955
Home and commercial building designed by award winning Auckland based architects
Hulena Architects provide bespoke architecture services in Auckland. We have more than 25 years of experience in designing all ranges of buildings for our clients. We design bespoke, site-specific buildings which are beautiful, functional and exceed the expectations of our clients. Our team is involved in all stages of the design process, including interior design and landscaping, ensuring all aspects of the project match your vision. See our website today to learn more.


Click on the photo to zoom
Dimensions: Maximum height 0.2-0.3 m./ Maximum crown diameter 0.4 m.
Lemon thyme is an evergreen, perennial, aromatic species with a lateral branch form. It has oval, green leaves that smell like lemon when you rub them in your hand. It makes lilac flowers in summer. It is resistant to poor and drained soils and prefers sunny positions.


Published at Sunday, 15 September 2019. Backyard. By Jérôme Mazuret.
Backyard waterfalls are the ultimate accent to any landscaping project and the never-ending compliments are a true testament to your pride of doing a project like this. In a matter of a single weekend, you can create a sanctuary that will pay dividends for your solitude, your pride, and it will actually increase your selling appeal when you decide to sell the home and move on. We have seen cases where the backyard waterfall was the deciding factor to a buyer wanting to purchase a home. So, when you consider the accents a backyard waterfall gives you, while you live there, it pays for itself a hundred times over when you decide to sell.
The approach we’ll use is very simple. We’ll create our backyard resort by combining exotic looking tropical plants with well-adapted plants that either look tropical or look good in a tropical setting. The trick is to learn what plants and how to combine them to create that exotic, tropical look. We’re going to use a simple layering approach. At a high level, here’s what to do: create a solid foundation, create the tropical landscape effect, and add the finishing touches.
No matter what your backyard looks like right now, you can take the steps for creating backyard bliss. The first thing you need to do is take a look at your backyard. It’s time to really evaluate it with an open eye. Maybe you’re ashamed of how bad you’ve let it get or perhaps you just haven’t had the time to think about it in a long time. Go look at your backyard now. It might be a good idea to take a pad and pen with you. Write down everything you think of that you’d like to see changed about your backyard. Then go down this list and consider what can be done and how much it will cost.
Any content, trademark’s, or other material that might be found on the Nathanchoiforjudge website that is not Nathanchoiforjudge’s property remains the copyright of its respective owner/s. In no way does Nathanchoiforjudge claim ownership or responsibility for such items, and you should seek legal consent for any use of such materials from its owner.
Copyright © 2019 Nathanchoiforjudge. All Rights Reserved.


I have chosen to do a beautiful lady in greens because the greens harmonize with the very leafy area. The signal box is near a busy road and a rocky empty street side foot path. The image of beauty and green colours add creativity to an otherwise drab site.
Kelvin Grove Rd & Lorimer Tce, Kelvin Grove QLD
Artforce is an initiative of Brisbane City Council managed by Urban Smart Projects.


As a designer, my job is to transform spaces. Creating a reality from your vision and my expertise is my job! And I love it. But have you ever considered taking that vision outdoors? Can you invision yourself relaxing in your own backyard, but feeling like you’re at a high end spa? We can do that too! Transforming your outdoor space is just as important as creating your vision indoors. Our specific skill set and our talented work family at J. Mozeley Interiros can create your vision indoors and outdoors!
Creating an outdoor space can include several of the aspects I touched on last week in my post, but I wanted to focus on really transforming your existing space into an oasis.
If you have not seen this gorgeous pool addition, it is making its way from spas and exclusive resorts into your backyard!
Okay, and maybe you don’t have a view quite like this…but any kind of beautiful landscaping or scenery that you’re lucky enough to have access to should be highlighted! Dontcha think?!
It would be such a shame to have a beautiful pool with a stunning view, and no where to sit and enjoy it! On a hot day, where lounging in the pool is the only thing you can even think about doing, underwater seating is going to take your space from ordinary to luxurious.
Entertain Like a Champ
Adding Greenery and Plants
In a space that is already rich with color and fragrance from the surrounding nature, you might not think to bring foliage into the created space. But, creating the continuity and flow of nature throughout the entire space will add luxury and a polished look to create a gorgeous finished product that will draw you outdoors and make spending time there enjoyable.
Also, don’t forget to add contrast and interest with alternating shapes and textures! Curved edges will soften the space and give the feeling of being at a spa or resort, while upscale textures added through finishes will be the final touch of extravagance you need to really transform the space.
Don’t forget about lighting!
Waterfalls and Imbedded Pools
Incorporating all of these aspects are guaranteed to create an extravagant outdoor space that you and your guests can’t help but love! Call J. Mozeley interiors today for a personalized vision and quote!


You require to take the time to fulfill with the landscaper. You need to talk to them about what you are looking for, and they need to assist you establish a design you will enjoy.
A terrific design is great, however it has to be functional. They require to understand how you are going to use your backyard and who else will be using it.
You desire your yard to be functional and beautiful. You need to stroll around the backyard with the landscaper and talk about the things you already like about your yard and some of the things you do not like.
Having an unfavorable experience can make a person cautious of dealing with a brand-new landscaper. Landscapers will want to avoid things that clients do not like. Can We Explore the Community? While there are some towns where all the house looks the exact same, the landscaping can set them apart. Take a walk around and see the styles that look enticing and the ones that do not look so good.
What Ideas Do You Have For Our Garden? Close To Sutherland Shire Council NSW
Table of Contents
Just How Much Will be Invested In the Task and Maintenance? This is among the most crucial concerns to ask before any styles are made – Sutherland Shire landscaping design. Different plants will need different levels of maintenance. If the homeowner wishes to garden they may like manicured shrubs. If not they require plants that are simple to take care of.
The landscaper may have to suggest some ideas as far as coloring goes. Budgeting Details This is another problem that is going to require to be brought up.
While this may be a deceiving concern to bring up, it is necessary. The expense of the task should be talked about upfront so everyone is on the very same page about what can be done. Is There a Personalized 3D Style? When a landscaper has a concept in mind, they can reveal it to the customer using brand-new innovation.
While an illustration or perhaps a 2D image is accommodating individuals will be astonished at the style when they can see it in 3D. This brand-new innovation can likewise allow the landscaper to include furnishings, little information, in addition to textures to their design. When a person sees their task in 3D, they end up being extremely excited about it – landscape design near Kirrawee Sutherland Shire.
Fully Insured Service
There are lots of options from the type of plants to use to where the outside furniture is going to be. This brand-new technology is an excellent method to produce new styles and see the landscaping ideas come to life.
8. Exist above ground stuctural elements I need to be interested in for my outside landscape? Distance to surrounding buildings or structures, overhead wire height, utilities. Exist restrictions to below-ground area? 9. Do I have a budget plan and is it reasonable? 10. Can I phase the building and construction of my garden? There are a lot more questions to ask before progressing on a garden design strategy.
It might benefit you to speak with a garden designer or landscape designer and see if working with a professional is the instructions that finest fits you – landscaping design course. ** All b/w illustrations Residential Landscape Architecture, style process for the Personal Residence by Booth/Hiss. Color illustration Todd Haiman Landscape Style 2016.
As a designer, I have actually ended up being rather great at this for many years so prior to you go charging into your next on-site consultation, here is my step-by-step guide to distilling the dollar value from your brand-new consumer. Step One Prepare Your Customer Ahead of Time Instead of merely springing the question on your potential customer and putting them on the spot for a response, help them be prepared to have a response by planting the seed early on.
Affordable & Upfront Pricing
Utilize this as a chance to provide something to consider in between the call and the time you meet on site. You’re not asking them to give you a response immediately, you’re inquiring to make the time to think of it. Here’s some of the important things I say: “I’m actually anticipating meeting you on -day, before you go, one of the important things I was hoping you might have a think of before we satisfy is how much you’re believing you ‘d like to purchase this task.””I’m not exactly sure if you’ve already thought about this and I don’t need an answer from you now, since I know this is a really awkward subject to talk about, however it will really help me to make sure you get the best value for cash if I have some idea of the budget we’ll be working within.””To provide you an idea, my customers usually come back to me with a figure variety to the nearby $5k, so for instance $45-50thousand.
The last thing I desire you to experience is a lot of surprise surprises. We like to get things right from the start. If you might have a think about that, it would be a fantastic assistance. If you’re unsure where to begin, I’ll bring some examples of previous jobs and we can talk more about it personally.””Oh, and if you could bring some images or hard copies of the sorts of things you’ve seen prior to that you actually like, that would be really valuable too.


Anyway, you can do this by deciding on any paver which has earthy and warm colours. Making the home look and feel as natural as possible is very fashionable right now. One of the most popular pavers to use on verandas is the stone paver that is simulated. This paver looks like stone but isn't really made out of stone. This will definitely give your veranda that earthy appearance that you are looking for without breaking the bank. Another paver that is perfect to be used on patios is the clay paver. This really is the alternative for somebody who is searching for a paver that is modern and classic. It is both strong and advanced.
This is simply not to say that patio paver or all decor features should be the exact same but they should work together and complement the other to strengthen the whole composition. Trendy stone effects concrete finish for square paver patterns also a pair of vintage metal chaise lounge with cast iron casters and memory foam seat cushion of Patio Paver supported with many elements like hard roofs, eucalyptus wood patio furniture, and outdoor canopys in addition to lay patio stone in sand. Information really should not be obvious but they also should be right, improving the overall feel of any home design.


Designers should embrace an expanded role in aquatic wildlife restoration to link our natural and built environments, benefitting multiple species and better connecting people to nature. When thinking about ecological assets, the freshwater mussel should be at the forefront of the discussion.
Hazelwood Green, Pittsburgh's largest riverfront development site, has selected the evolveEA team to design a series of bus stops throughout the neighborhood in collaboration with artists Alisha B. Wormsley and Carin Mincemoyer.
The Sharpsburg Ecodistrict is now EcoDistricts Certified, joining Millvale and Etna to become the third community in the world to attain this certification! Certified EcoDistricts prioritize Climate Protection, Resilience, and Equity.
The Etna EcoDistrict Plan continues to attract recognition from planning and design associations like the American Planning Association and American Institute of Architects, and has won a Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence.


EADG was founded by British Architect Jon Prescott in 1981. After witnessing the return of Hong Kong to mainland China the firm took the opportunity to place itself in a pivotal position to experience the extraordinary rise of the enhanced role and responsibility landscape architecture would plays in China.
During the break-neck speed of change of urban development in China and other developing Asian countries, Landscape Architects have been integral to the shaping of urban systems, natural ecologies and public communities. EADG has played an important role in this period which has led to significant expansion and growth of EADG’s practice leading to more than 500 staff across over a dozen offices. EADG are proud to have been part of this profound change, and to contributing to the rising profile of global professional landscape architecture and, its unique characteristics within Asia.
We strive to combine our considerable international experiences with local cultural insights to help shape the changes in response to our clients’ aspirations and vision.


A new manmade wonder, planned to be made in Europe, is nearing its completion towards a significant step. The project will be the world’s largest nature reserve that has been made by humans. The reserve will be formed as a transformation from farmland into a marshland. Material that was excavated during the Crossrail project is being used for forming the coastal marshland.
The project, named Wallasea Island Wild Coast, is making use of nearly 3m tonnes of excavated material to raise, by an average 1.5m height, a certain portion of the Essex island for creating lagoons across the farmland’s vast 670 hectares stretch – an area that is more than double the size of the London City. The project is aimed at restoring the marshland to its state before 400 years.
The project is an initiative of the RSPB, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds. The project, that is estimated to finish in a 20-years-long span, completed its first phase at the weekend when new sea walls were opened successfully to let the tidal flow enter in the marshland.
It is estimated that nearly 500 years ago, there was an intertidal salty marshland that had a stretch of nearly 30,000 hectares along the Essex coast and had a vital wildlife habitat. The marshland is also known to have had an excellent sea defense. Now, only as much as 2,500 hectares of the marshland remains in place.
The project aiming to restore the marshland will be completed by 2025 and will have achieved the plan of developing nearly salty marshland in nearly 192 hectares, mudflats in nearly 148 hectares, and shallow saline lagoon in 76 acres. The project had started back in the year 2006.
Once completed, the project would be an excellent example of how such a low-lying coastal area can rise and deliver a vast set of benefits to the wildlife. The reserve will be host and a perfect habitat for a number of bird species.


NOK 17 684
Discover wildlife-rich wetlands, desert dunes, delicate French colonial architecture and sleepy coas...
NOK 16 291
Merging cultural experiences with important histories and stunning landscapes, this 10-day tour thro...
NOK 81 976
An amazing journey across an astonishing variety of landscapes and experiences, the result of many y...
NOK 24 509
Discover tropical Anglo-influenced Gambia and exotic Francophile Senegal, and compare the colonial i...


What’s happening to the duck pond at Riverside Park, Ballymoney. There are reports that lorries have arrived and are tipping loads of soil into the lake! Facebook is buzzing with reaction - what do you think?
In a statement from Ballymoney Borough Council, a spokesperson explained: “The work is being undertaken by Rivers Agency. The works which are being done are to suit the River and will restore the river to its natural route.
“The duck pond will become a wetland area, with plants, shrubs and flowers, enhancing the biodiversity of the area and will flood in high water.
“There will also be interpretative panels describing the biodiversity of the area. It is a 13 week contract and is due to be completed before Christmas.”
Do you have a comment? Why send us your views by email, Facebook or Twitter.


Rose Creek Abelia
Abelia x chinensis 'Rose Creek'
Full sun, Partial sun
Water regularly - weekly, or more often in extreme heat or containers.
|Botanical Pronunciation||a-BEE-lee-uh chi-NEN-sis|
|Average Size at Maturity||Low mounding shrub; reaches 2 to 3 ft. tall, 3 to 4 ft. wide.|
|Flower Attribute||Fragrant, Long Bloom Season, Showy Flowers|
|Foliage Color||Dark Green|
|Garden Style||Cottage, Rustic|
|Landscape Use||Border, Container, Hedge, Mass Planting, Urban Garden|
|Light Needs||Full sun, Partial sun|
|Soil Needs||Tree & Shrub Food|
|Special Feature||Dramatic Foliage Color, Easy Care, Waterwise, Year-round Interest, Compact Form|
|Watering Needs||Water regularly - weekly, or more often in extreme heat or containers.|
Provide enriched, well-drained, acidic soil. Water deeply, regularly in first growing season to establish extensive root system. Once established, prefers regular water but tolerates dry spells, particularly in cooler regions. Protect in northern climates. Prune in late winter to early spring to shape, and apply a controlled-release fertilizer.
This Plant's Growing Zones: 6 - 9


“Joan was already working down there regularly so I joined her on her spot. Together, we do the weeding, planting, tending to the paths and planting. It’s now our spot!
“We can go down there whenever we like, and just work away and spend the whole time chatting. Joan is another retired woman, so we spend a lot of time together!”
Five years of hard work has transformed the area, says Anne.
“We know every inch of the area. We’re both incredibly proud of our spot and have planted dozens of native plants there. We nurture them throughout all the seasons. It’s a lot of fun.”
Even though the work involves scaling steep banks, this doesn’t stop Anne. She does it for the friendship and to make the city a better place.
“I think Joan keeps me going – it’s such a good friendship that’s developed. Sometimes we need to hold onto each other on the steep bits because we carry around our tools,” she laughs.


Wellens Agronomics | Erosion and Sediment Control | Carver, MN
952 . 448 . 5167
We provide services to help prevent erosion by wind or water. To help hold soil in place, we can use practices such as hydromulches, straw or hay mulch and erosion control blankets/mats.
and Erosion Control Blankets
and Biotic Soil Media
and Hay Mulching


High Point, North Carolina
- Erosion Control search results
Erosion Control Terms To Know
Erosion control companies use a lot of science and engineering practices in order to help maintain and manage the design of your landscape and any adjacent bodies of water. To better understand the services they provide, consider the following terms and definitions.
Bioengineering - In order to prevent soil, sediment, or silt from eroding, erosion control technicians will utilize plants and their root systems to stabilize the ground. Once the plant establishes strong roots, those roots help to hold the earth together.
Cohesive Soil - Cohesive soil can be used in erosion control because it possesses inherent qualities that bond the silt and sand together. This means that the soil, on a fundamental level, is less likely to pull apart, or erode.
Fill Material - In order to change the layout of a piece of land, such as to eliminate a slope, for example, fill can be used to add height. Fill can consist of dirt, rocks, gravel, or other material, and topsoil is then placed on top. A fence or retaining wall is often integrated into the landscape design, so that the new topography holds its shape.
Receiving Water - All new construction within erosion control techniques must adhere to environmental restrictions on immediate and local levels. For instance, any new underground structures or additives, such as fence posts or water wells, must not interrupt pre-existing structures that may contaminate local waterways. These local waterways are referred to as receiving water.
Thatch - Thatch is a layer within the soil that develops as plants and vegetables grow and die over time. It is a mixture of dead and living roots, shoots, and fibers that can affect the stability of the soil.
Erosion control is the process of preventing water and wind erosion. This applies to land development, construction, and agriculture. It is common for professionals in this field to work to control erosion so that soil is not lost and water is not polluted. This is often seen with sediment on coastlines where the water constantly causes the land to wear away. Erosion control is an important process that is practiced in many parts of the world.
There are some different ways to approach erosion control. For instance, it is common to see riprap along shorelines, which is like a bed of rocks. This helps prevent sediment, silt and soil loss. Sometimes land is tilled and then covered with riprap in order to help the stones stay in place. The weather and wind certainly have an impact on land and agriculture. This is why wattle fences are built to prevent erosion in some areas. They date back to medieval times, and are made from sticks and rocks. Fiber mats or blankets are also used at times and contour to the land to help filter water and prevent soil loss. Regardless of whether the land is level or at a slope, erosion control is possible.
You may want to use the internet to learn more about erosion control and prevention. Online you will find all kinds of data regarding coastal riprap, grass blankets, ground tubes for water control, and wattle fences. You may additionally want to visit a local home improvement store to learn more and get some ideas.


The James River Association's (JRA) Riparian Lands Restoration Program establishes forested buffers along the banks of the James River and its tributaries. JRA provides assistance to landowners with conservation easements and by implementing erosion control, shoreline improvement, and tree planting programs. This program contributed significantly to the Chesapeake Bay Program goal of establishing 2010 miles of vegetated riparian buffers by the year 2010.
This project was supported by our corporate partner, the Alcoa Foundation.
View all Virginia projects | View all 2002 projects |
Back To Main
1220 L Street, NW, Suite 750 • Washington, DC • 20005 • Phone: 202-737-1944
© 2015 American Forests. All Rights Reserved.


Antique and vintage touches make this hallway gallery wall a true gem. Eames chairs and an entryway bench add more.
Succulent Garden Boxes made from pallets.
⣶ Domino Domicile ⣶ black and white geometric pots with cacti
Plants galore …
Pinterest: whysoperfectt Insta: chloepascoee
If you want to make a perennial cottage garden, these are the plants you should grow!
When pictures inspired me #128 - FrenchyFancy


Maine architects perform a pivotal role in shaping the architectural landscape of the Pine Tree State. With their special eyesight and creative experience, these architects bring to daily life the desires and aspirations of individuals, communities, and organizations throughout the location. From restoring historic properties to planning contemporary constructions that seamlessly mix with the bordering nature, Maine architects excel in creating gorgeous and purposeful areas that stand the test of time.
What sets Maine architects aside is their deep appreciation for the state’s prosperous cultural heritage and gorgeous normal elegance. They understand the relevance of preserving the appeal and authenticity of Maine’s architecture even though incorporating modern patterns that meet up with the evolving needs of its residents. Whether it truly is a cozy coastal cottage or a sleek urban dwelling, Maine architects attempt to harmonize their creations with the picturesque landscapes, producing each construction a true embodiment of the spirit of the Pine Tree Condition.
Driven by their enthusiasm for innovation and sustainability, Maine architects goal to create properties that not only captivate the eye but also regard the environment. With the increasing emphasis on green and energy-productive styles, these experts use condition-of-the-artwork tactics and materials to minimize the ecological effect of their assignments. By seamlessly mixing aesthetics and features with eco-aware methods, Maine architects are at the forefront of the sustainable creating motion, location an inspiring instance for the rest of the market.
In this report, we will delve into the incredible perform of Maine architects, discovering some of their most notable tasks and the affect they have experienced on the communities they serve. From historic preservation to modern day marvels, we will highlight the varied variety of architectural types and approaches adopted by these gifted individuals. Prepare to embark on a journey via the planet of Maine architecture, the place desires are brought to daily life, and the elegance of the Pine Tree Point out is celebrated through every single building’s style.
Architectural Range in Maine
Maine architects have the unique prospect to showcase their creative imagination and expertise by means of the assorted architectural types discovered through the point out. From quaint coastal cottages to modern day city buildings, there is a extensive variety of architectural design and style to be admired in the Pine Tree Point out.
One prominent architectural fashion in Maine is the New England colonial. Characterised by symmetrical facades and middle-corridor ground strategies, these sophisticated residences usually attribute traditional particulars such as clapboard siding, pitched roofs, and charming dormer windows. Numerous architects in Maine have included components of this traditional fashion into their types, having to pay homage to the wealthy heritage of the location while introducing their possess modern flair.
Another architectural type observed in Maine is the rustic Adirondack style. Inspired by the normal splendor of the state’s wilderness, this style aesthetic embraces the use of all-natural components, such as stone and timber, to develop heat and inviting homes nestled in the picturesque landscapes. Maine architects who focus in this design often include big home windows to increase the relationship in between indoor and out of doors spaces, permitting inhabitants to entirely recognize the gorgeous environment.
Maine’s architectural variety also extends to its urban areas, the place up to date and contemporary types can be identified. Architects in cities like Portland and Bangor have embraced modern lines, revolutionary components, and sustainable techniques to generate visually placing buildings that harmonize with their surroundings. From household higher-rises to cutting-edge business spaces, these modern day structures contribute to the state’s architectural landscape in a daring and progressive way.
In summary, Maine architects have the exclusive privilege of operating in a point out that offers a assorted range of architectural designs. Whether drawing inspiration from the region’s abundant colonial historical past, the elegance of the wonderful outdoor, or the vibrant city surroundings, these gifted pros proceed to form the constructed environment of Maine, creating stunning dreams for residents and guests alike.
Prominent Architects in the Pine Tree Point out
One of the most renowned Maine architects is Sarah Thompson, whose innovative styles have garnered attention equally domestically and nationally. Thompson’s determination to sustainability and integrating character into her creations is evident in her perform, which usually characteristics massive home windows, open up layouts, and natural and organic supplies. Her assignments range from residential residences nestled in the state’s lovely landscapes to eco-friendly commercial structures that are the two practical and visually striking.
Yet another noteworthy architect in the Pine Tree Point out is James Sullivan, whose knowledge lies in developing buildings that blend seamlessly with Maine’s charming coastal towns. Sullivan’s architectural design embraces the standard New England aesthetic, incorporating elements this kind of as clapboard siding, pitched roofs, and nautical-influenced accents. His perform has aided form the architectural id of several seaside communities in Maine, where his buildings wonderfully enhance the bordering organic elegance.
Mark Simmons is a visionary architect known for his distinctive technique to blending modernism with the rustic allure of Maine. His patterns often attribute clean traces, minimalist interiors, and the use of domestically sourced resources, allowing his constructions to harmonize with the state’s rugged terrain. Simmons’ creations can be located in a variety of community areas within Maine, like museums, art galleries, and even public parks, where his distinct architectural design enhances visitors’ activities.
These Maine architects , alongside with a lot of other people, have manufactured significant contributions to shaping the architectural landscape of the Pine Tree Condition. By way of their creativeness, innovation, and deep connection to Maine’s all-natural environment, they proceed to create stunning goals that each encourage and preserve the unique spirit of this impressive area.
Contributions to Maine’s Developed Surroundings
Maine architects have manufactured substantial contributions to the state’s created environment, shaping the landscape and generating architectural marvels that capture the essence of the Pine Tree State.
Embracing Nature’s Beauty: Maine architects have an innate understanding of the state’s natural environment and have incorporated this appreciation into their patterns. By seamlessly blending architecture with the scenic beauty of Maine, these architects have produced structures that harmoniously coexist with their surroundings. From coastal residences that use resources impressed by the rugged shoreline to cabins nestled deep within the wilderness, these designs seize the essence of Maine’s all-natural beauty.
Revitalizing Historic Buildings: Maine offers a wealthy heritage, and its architects have played a critical part in the preservation and revitalization of the state’s historic structures. By way of their expertise, they have breathed new daily life into growing older buildings while being true to their original character. By combining historical preservation techniques with modern day layout aspects, these architects have remodeled previous mills, warehouses, and even lighthouses into vibrant spaces that serve new reasons while preserving the soul of Maine’s architectural heritage.
Sustainable Style for the Future: Maine architects have also been at the forefront of sustainable layout practices, incorporating environmentally welcoming rules into their tasks. With a emphasis on strength performance, renewable components, and environmentally conscious development methods, these architects are contributing to a greener potential for the Pine Tree State. By integrating sustainable style into their assignments, they are not only reducing the environmental effect but also generating areas that prioritize the ease and comfort and nicely-becoming of their occupants.
Maine architects keep on to thrust the boundaries of design and style, blending innovation with a deep regard for the state’s normal and historic context. Their contributions to Maine’s developed surroundings have not only manufactured a lasting impact on the state’s architectural landscape, but also enriched the lives of those who expertise their incredible creations.


This video is not available on this platform.
1565 days ago,
Ordering a gazebo may seem like a very simple task but when you see how many designs are available you may feel a little daunted by the prospect. When choosing a gazebo you must keep two things in mind – the function of the gazebo and where it will go in your garden. http://www.summerhouse.net.au


Ladies Mantle plant, Alchemilla vulgaris, is a very elegant plant and a necessary inclusion in any garden. An infusion of the dried leaves traditionally used in Europe as a tea after childbirth. The same tea is used to regulate menstruation and and smooth out menopause. Ladies Mantle plant is indigenous to the Northern Hemisphere and prefers moist soils in a protected, shady position. Clusters of tiny yellow green flowers in summer. Frost resistant but drought tender. A perennial plant, growing to 0.5m x 0.5 m.


From the Montrose Daily Press:
The Colorado Lottery honored Montrose recently with one of its 2015 Starburst Awards.
The award recognizes Montrose’s excellence in use of lottery funds in creating the Montrose Water Sports Park; the City of Montrose is to formally accept the award at city council’s Sept. 15 meeting.
“This award provides further acknowledgement of all of the planning and effort that went into creating the Water Sports Park,” City Manager Bill Bell said in a statement Friday.
“While the city had a central role in creating this amazing community asset, the finished product represents the collaborative effort and vision of many organizations and individuals in the community. This award recognizes everyone who had a share.”
Great Outdoors Colorado (funded by lottery proceeds) provided partial funding to build the water park, as well as new trails along the Uncompahgre River and improvements to nearby Montrose Recreation District facilities.
Colorado Lottery noted exceptional collaboration among local entities in choosing Montrose for the Starburst Award. Montrose was one of 19 communities to receive a Starburst Award.
“These projects display how important outdoor recreation is to both Coloradans and visitors,” Lottery Director Laura Solano said in the statement.
“The Lottery congratulates and recognizes the 2015 Starburst winners for their vision in creating quality recreation opportunities in their communities.”
The Water Sports Park is located at Riverbottom Park on Apollo Road. It boasts six “wave simulator” structures within the river, several rock-terraced spectator areas, nearly one-half mile of recreation trails, Americans with Disability Act-compliant access ramps at each end of the park, two rock-climbing boulders and several fish-habitat improvements.


Regal Oaks at Old Town
CPC served as the owner’s representative for Regal Oaks at Old Town in Kissimmee, a 60-acre, 450-unit townhome development. The project includes a new 21,000-square-foot clubhouse, drop-off/pick-up area of the clubhouse and additional parking, redesign of the gatehouse, sports facility and renovation of pool.
CPC is the lead consultant for CLC Resorts, providing overall engineering and project management. CPC tasks include all of the planning, engineering for the water, sewer, paving, drainage and permitting. As lead consultant CPC has also managed the project and coordinated with other consultants, including the architect, pool designer and landscape architect, selection of general contractor and preparing budgets for project construction, completion and entitlements. Project challenges included site grading, off-site road and utility improvements to be upgraded and extended to site, and infiltration from an adjacent treatment pond.
Regal Oaks at Old Town Kissimmee, FL


The City unveiled a redesign plan of the Hyde Square rotary during a community meeting Sept. 29 that would increase the width of the sidewalk, enhance greenery and add public art, according to Boston Transportation Department (BTD) Director of Planning Vineet Gupta.
The redesign appears similar to a plan that was presented during an earlier community meeting in the process in 2010.
The Sept. 29 meeting was the third in the latest planning series on the Jamaica Plain/South/Hyde/Jackson Design Projects, which date back to 2009. Gupta said about 20 to 25 people attended the meeting.
The Jamaica Plain/South/Hyde/Jackson Design Projects will stretch along Centre Street from Jackson Square to Hyde Square to Monument Square, then down South Street to Forest Hills. The project is intended to make sidewalks and crosswalks more pedestrian-friendly, improve traffic flow and add green space. A facelift at Monument Square, which was included in earlier phases of the redesign project, might not happen, as the City revealed during an April 28 meeting.
The redesign presented at the Sept. 29 meeting would increase the width of the sidewalk around the Hyde Square rotary, expand the cement islands in the middle of Centre Street, add numerous trees and install bike racks and public art. The improvements would lead to the loss of five parking spots.
“For the most part, people were supportive of the design,” said Gupta.
He said the idea of raising every crosswalk on side streets along Centre Street between Mozart Park and Jackson Square was also discussed during the meeting.
There is still no budget for the project. Gupta said that will be determined later, as the City still needs to bring the project to a more detailed level of design and figure out the cost of maintenance of the completed project.
“I think we are moving along and going in a good direction,” said Gupta about where the project stands.
Jamaica Plain/South/Hyde/Jackson Design Projects is part of the Centre and South Streets Streetscape and Transportation Action Plan that developed general guidelines for the look and feel of the Centre/South corridor, and aimed to fix some specific traffic trouble spots. The planning first began in 2009. For more information, visit bit.ly/1nZ4Nfk.
Gupta said that the next meeting would be held in a couple of months.


The shelters prominently feature the tree trunk supports that can make use of wood/bamboo boards to enhance the natural feeling of the shelter. Timber or bamboo boards can be cladded onto the metal tree trunk support to add a natural touch. Sitting atop the tree trunk supports are rounded squares of tempered glass with below it, a smaller rounded square of metal plate with perforated pattern of the energy swirl. Shelters of different heights can be placed in a line so that the glass tops overlap each other to provide users with better protection from the sun and rain. The uneven height distribution from a group of shelters would resemble a wave, adding movement like the Current of Vitality.


Elymus magellanicus | Wild Rye
- Genus: Elymus
- Species: magellanicus
- Eventual Height: 20
- Eventual Spread: 30
- Position: full sun, north, south, east, west
- Evergreen or Deciduous: Deciduous
- Soil Drainage moist but well drained
- Soil PH: acid, neutral
- Exposure: exposed, sheltered
- Hardiness: (H4) Hardy
A tufted clump-forming grass with the most intense blue foliage of all grasses. Light shade helps maintain colour. Makes a supurb container plant.
Write an online review and share your thoughts with other shoppers!


Scientific Name: Angelonia angustifolia
Common Name: Angelonia, Summer Snap
Hardiness Degree: 32°F (0.0°C)
Blooming Season: Summer, Late Summer
Plant Habit: Upright
Characteristics: Drought Tolerant, Winter Interest (regional), Colorful/Attractive Foliage, Scented Foliage, Heat Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Spacing: 10 - 12" (25 - 30cm)
Height: 12 - 14" (30 - 36cm)
Width: 10 - 12" (25 - 30cm)
General Information: Huge flowers are vibrant against glossy dark green leaves. Thrives in extreme heat, humidity and drought. Excellent landscape performance.
Series thrives in extreme heat, humidity and drought.
First in this color class! Vibrant, bright coral color holds its beauty in all climates and conditions, plus it has a great habit that matches Blue Bicolor.
(Flowering Only License)


- Ideal Choice For Water Gardens
- Create Custom Fit For Irregular Shapes
- Safe For Fish, Plants & Wildlife
45 Mil EPDM rubber pond liner is extremely flexible and adapts very well to irregular shapes of decorative ponds. Pond builders appreciate it's ability to conform the shelves needed for plant containers. Landscapers prefer it for it's ease of installation. When finished, your pond will have a natural look. Use EPDM pond liner with Underlayment to protect your liner from sharp objects and heavy rocks.
Not sure what size EPDM pond liner you need? Try our Water Garden Calculator or give our experts a call at 866-766-3435.
Here are the replacement parts for 45 Mil EPDM Rubber Pond Liner.
The first step towards effectively treating any pond weed is proper identification. 45 Mil EPDM Rubber Pond Liner is recommended for use against each of the weeds listed below. Click on your desired weed for more information and alternate control options.


Alchemilla Mollis Plants for Sale - Ashridge Nurseries.
Alchemilla mollis is a herbaceous perennial also known commonly as lady's mantle.This low maintenance, spreading plant has pretty light green foliage, making it a great ground cover species.Leaves are softly hairy and have scalloped and toothed edges.Flowers are produced in the summer, they form a haze of tiny yellow flowers which are produced in sprays above the foliage.
May 11, 2020 - Beauty of the moisture prismlike droplets glistening like jewels. Pubescent soft leaves pleated like fans. Reseeds Contrast with carex or Japanese painted fern. As groundcover with geranium sanguinem. Great filler flower for boquets Lasts two weeks in a vase the diplomat of flowers. Mix it with anything. Posy of Jackmani and Cali poppies.
Alchemilla mollis Ladys Mantle. Alchemilla mollis also known as Lady's Mantle is a low care, non-demanding old-fashioned clump forming perennial. In summer they produce clouds of tiny golden flowers on top of lovely silver green-coated foliage, the long lasting flowers and leaves are widely used in fresh and dried flower arrangements.
This is the popular cottage garden Lady's Mantle introduced from the Caucasus in 1874. Like its European relative, Alchemilla vulgaris, its felt-like leaves curiously hold water like beads of mercury. This property made it a favorite of the early apothecaries or alchemists, hence its scientific name. The delicate, airy blossoms are popular as.
Alchemilla mollis. Other names. Lady's mantle. Genus. Alchemilla Alchemilla. Species. A. mollis - A. mollis is a perennial with scalloped, bright green foliage and a haze of tiny, light-green or yellow flowers in summer. Alchemilla mollis is: Deciduous. Habit. Clump-forming, Spreading. Awards. RHS AGM (Award of Garden Merit) Flower. Yellow.
Alchemila mollis is a delightful little plant, forming a low mound that will gently soften the edges of borders and pathways. A stalwart of cottage garden planting schemes and equally pleasing in rockeries, or grown as ground cover beneath trees and shrubs. Once established, Lady’ Mantle can be surprisingly drought tolerant and will seed about to form spreading drifts. Height: 60cm (24.
Hardiness: USDA Zones 4 through 7This is the popular cottage garden Lady s Mantle introduced from the Caucasus in 1874. Like its European relative, Alchemilla vulgaris, its felt-like leaves curiously hold water like beads of mercury. This property made it a favorite of the early apothecaries or alchemists, hence its scientific name. The.


LEARN ABOUT OUR
TREE & SHRUB MAINTENANCE
Care for the Trees and Shrubs on Your Property
At Green Doctor, we will take great care of the trees and shrubs on your land. We use organic and non-organic fungicides, insecticides, and fertilizers to keep plants healthy and prevent diseases.
Our 6-Step Tree & Shrub Program provides:
Pre-emergent For Beds


|If you have your heart set on having a pond and your garden is very small then barrel ponds can answer your wish.
As long as you have a metre square to spare then there is sufficient room for a small pond. They are perfect for plants and wildlife, but just too small to keep more than two
If you do decide on having a couple of goldfish then insure that you live in a warmer climate so that the pond does not completely freeze.
Easy To Install
There is not much planning involved as you can buy ready made barrels. You just need to find a good spot in your garden.
You need to place the barrel on bricks to keep it off the ground and use other pot plants around the barrel to create a natural look.
A single Japanese lily sat on a shelf inside the barrel created with a brick and hey presto, before you know it, wildlife we start appearing.
Barrels look great in any garden and you can use other containers too by burying them into the ground. Old buckets, sinks, dustbins, troughs and even old cisterns can be use to create a water feature, just keep your eyes out for a bargain or visit your local dump.
Also see Bathtub Ponds
Return from Barrel Ponds to Pond Designs


Drone and aerial photography
Drone and aerial photography are part of our suite of services. It makes our visual impact assessments easier to understand and helps bring our landscape and urban designs to life.
Drones are great for giving a different perspective to a project. We can help communicate a complex message through images. We can also create a fly-through of what a project will look like. There are so many opportunities for drone and aerial photography to add value to your project.
Mara Consulting drone and aerial imagery services
Using camera-equipped drones, we can perform fast, accurate, and extremely efficient building and land inspections to inform asset condition reports.
Drone aerial photography and video footage
Aerial footage is great to keep you up to date with your construction project with regular photo and video updates. Get a bird's eye view of progress, to inform discussions with contractors or with the client.
Who we are
Mara Consulting is a specialist consultation and urban design firm. We have a multidisciplinary team with experience in environmental planning, urban design, landscape architecture, arboriculture, community consultation and complex communication. We take great pride in the quality of our work and our ability to collaborate with our clients.
Mara's team is highly skilled, and on hand to help with your project - no matter how big or small.
Image: Our operator, Tadd, holds a remote pilot licence… as well as being an urban design guru, landscape architect and environmental planner.
Mara's drone and aerial photography services
- 2D and 3D aerial photography mapping
- Inspections of construction sites, mines, solar arrays, roofs and hard to reach areas
- Traffic counts and footage for transport studies
- Urban tree canopy and aerial tree imagery
- Site inspection
- Aerial photography
- Surveillance and monitoring
- Data gathering and reporting
- Images for renders and urban design projects
- Aerial photography, video filming services.


Sugar Puff Rhododendron
Rhododendron x 'Sugar Puff' (H-2)
Water regularly - weekly, or more often in extreme heat or containers.
We no longer grow this plant
This page is for reference only. If you are looking for a plant to purchase, please use our Plant Finder to discover the perfect plant for your garden.
|Average Size at Maturity||Moderate growing; reaches 3 ft. tall and wide.|
|Flower Attribute||Showy Flowers|
|Garden Style||Asian/Zen, Cottage|
|Growth Habit||Compact, Rounded|
|Landscape Use||Border, Container, Hedge, Mass Planting, Specimen, Woodland Garden, Urban Garden|
|Light Needs||Partial sun|
|Soil Needs||Azalea & Camellia Food|
|Special Feature||Dramatic Foliage Color, Easy Care, Gift Plant, Tolerates Acidic Soil, Year-round Interest, Tolerates Urban Pollution, Compact Form|
|Watering Needs||Water regularly - weekly, or more often in extreme heat or containers.|
|Companion Plants||Hydrangea (Hydrangea); Astilbe (Astilbe); Azalea (Azalea); Coral Bells (Heuchera); Bleeding Heart (Dicentra)|
Provide organically rich, well-drained, acidic soil. Apply a thick layer of mulch to keep roots cool, avoiding the crown. Avoid harsh afternoon sun exposures and shelter from drying winter winds. Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Feed with an acid fertilizer after bloom.
This Plant's Growing Zones: 5-9


An Arbor as a Work of Art
Projects start in many different ways at Land Morphology. One project began as a lively conversation with the clients about a religious observance and ended up with a front yard makeover and an arbor that’s as much an art piece as it is a structure.
Getting to know people and understand their values and beliefs is a huge part of Land Morphology’s philosophy for design. The clients described the Jewish ceremony of Sukkot (or Sukkos, Succos) to us and captured our imagination. Sukkot is a holiday celebrated in the autumn and traditionally involves building a temporary shelter with a roof of palm fronds called a sukkah. Once built, celebrations and meals are conducted within and many people will even sleep inside their sukkah!
We knew that we wanted to do something related to Sukkot to celebrate the client’s heritage while revamping their front yard. With this idea in mind we sought to create a space that was elegant and artistic to reflect the architecture (and the owners.) The front yard facelift was to include a space for outdoor dining in addition to some minor planting and paving adjustments.
An arbor is a great way to define space and add more height and dimensionality to a landscape. Most arbors in the Seattle area tend to reflect the prevalent craftsmen architecture: large posts and beams, painted wood, and numerous rafters. For the smaller front yard of our project site a more refined approach was necessary to suit the scale and eliminate the feeling of being closed-in or crowded.
From travels throughout the east coast and internationally, Richard is well versed in multiple architectural styles and trends. Popular in much of Europe and the eastern United States are steel arbors with much thinner posts and members than you could accomplish with wood.
Using steel would allow us to design a very light and airy structure that could last a lifetime. To get a concept together to present to the client we used a combination of SketchUp and hand sketching to render what a steel arbor would look like in the space. We took the palm frond motif of the sukkah as a corner detail and followed the curve of the roof line to help integrate the arbor into the site.
Once we had the approved concept for the shape and details of the arbor we contacted one of our favorite artisans, Michael Prendergast of Pepperbox to build it. As our knowledge of steel and forging is limited, Michael was able to provide a lot of insight on the construction, finishes and how to approach the delicate detail work of the palm fronds.
In addition to the arbor, the large hedges were removed and bluestone was added to the existing brick patio to create a “rug” and accents for placing large planters on.
The finished product ended up being the perfect frame for an open and airy new dining space and the details elevate it to a work of art!


There is no shortage of reasons to install a wooden gazebo for your backyard. However, it is important to know how to do it correctly before you purchase your outdoor gazebo and have it installed.
The first thing you should think about is what type of gazebo you are going to buy. The first thing you need to decide on is whether it will be a traditional gazebo or a modern gazebo. You may even want a gazebo that has a canopy or that sits on the ground so that you can sit under it and enjoy the night sky.
Now you need to figure out how you are going to build your garden wooden gazebo. A traditional gazebo will usually require two to three days to build and to finish, depending on the size and shape of your gazebo. You also need to consider the size of the gazebo, how many people it will fit, and how many sides it will have. If you only have one person living in the gazebo, you may need a smaller gazebo to fit him/her.
Before you start building, make sure that you have the foundation down. If you are building a gazebo in a small garden, make sure that the gazebo has the right drainage in order to prevent water from collecting underneath the gazebo. You also need to make sure that you have a ladder with enough space so that you can safely remove the gazebo once it is built.
Make sure that you have all the tools ready when you start construction. First, you need to make sure that you have the right wood that is used to make the gazebo. There are several different types of wood, and you need to make sure that you choose the correct wood based on the structure of the gazebo you want to build and the number of people who will live in it.
Next, you will need to find out how you are going to put the gazebos together. This is where it is important to follow a step by step plan that will help you put the gazebos together properly.
The final thing you need to do is to decide how you are going to install the gazebos. You should look around your backyard and find out where the best place is to put your gazebo. If the area is large and you don’t mind having the gazebo sitting on the ground, then you may want to place it on the side of the patio or the other side of the gazebo if there is no space.
Once the gazebo is ready, the last step you need to do is to choose a location to put it on the deck so that you have an outdoor gazebo to enjoy all summer. It is time to enjoy the view of your backyard. Your children will love to go outside on their own and enjoy the cool breeze that is coming off the gazebos.
You can put an outdoor gazebo in your backyard without too much trouble. Just follow some easy steps and you will have it up and running in no time at all.
First, make sure that you have the correct wood for your outdoor gazebos. There are many different kinds of wood that you can use, depending on your budget and your tastes.
You will need to cut the wood that you need, and you will need to put the pieces together before you can use them. You will also need to glue each piece together so that they all stick together properly. If you don’t know how to do that, then you will need to call a professional woodworker to help you.
You will need to start by measuring the area where you are going to put the gazebo. You need to cut the wood accordingly. You don’t want the gazebo to be too large or you will have to put it in the middle of the garden. You also don’t want it to be too small or it will not look like a gazebo at all.


Looking for a green area where you can hold future projects without leaving the city? Here you have a list of the best parks in Madrid where you can forget about the world for a while and unleash your creativity.
Tropical Garden Atocha Station
Waiting will never be a problem in this place. Mixing trains and nature, this station counts with 7.000 plants from 400 different species which have developed their own microclimate under a metal structure.
Royal Botanical Garden
Created by Juan de Villanueva and the botanist Gomez Ortega for Charles III in 1781, this opulent garden has more than 30.000 plants from all around the world. Surrounded by beauty, it makes you forget reality.
Would you like a free tour of Europe without leaving Madrid? If the answer is yes, then this is the place you have to visit. It offers a quick route of 17 European monuments, transforming it into a fun and out-of-the-ordinary journey where you can take a closer look at the most famous wonders in Europe.
Gardens of Sabatini
This neoclassical-style garden it’s located in front of the Royal Palace and is one of the most fascinating places in the old centre. It is also one of the most beautiful parks in Madrid. Its plants and vegetation are carefully cutted in geometric forms, highlighting its beauty and statues.
Walking here it’s such a pleasure. Counting with swings, zip lines, and slides coupled with ten kilometres of the green zone, it unites the two art-nouveau-style bridges called Matadero and Invernadero.
Casa de Campo
It’s considered the largest green space in the country due to its 1.722 acres. Furthermore, it was declared a Royal Forest and crown land until the days of the Second Republic. Now that it’s a public space, it offers its visitants a huge variety of activities! You can hire a kayak and sail in its lake, take the cable car, enter the amusement park, visit the Zoo aquarium, or go running and cycling on its numerous paths.


During the month of May our western shores and Ireland become alive with colour. This is a spectacularly beautiful time when many of the gardens, estates and national parks are at their most appealing and the countryside will be lush and inviting. The gardens of Britain and Ireland have a unique quality and from the formal and manicured, to the wilder and more natural, our itinerary includes some of the most beautiful and diverse gardens which in spring are a sight to gladden any heart.
Of course our main emphasis will be on gardens and amongst the highlights are visits to the stunning sub-tropical Abbey Gardens on Tresco; some delightful Irish gardens which have a unique quality, the ‘soft’ weather and green mountain backdrops making for lovely views; and the splendid gardens of Gigha, which defy the Atlantic elements so admirably. Each day there will also be the opportunity to experience the sheer diversity of the coastline, see the resident wildlife, enjoy the wonderful views on offer and appreciate the history of the region.
All of this makes for a most appealing sea journey whether you be an avid gardener, birdwatcher or simply enjoy sailing past and visiting some of the most enchanting places in the world. Over the course of eleven days we will visit all of the UK’s four countries and, in the company of just 100 or so fellow guests, we will be able to discover many fascinating yet little-visited destinations that are otherwise inaccessible to the larger ships.


Gladstone Pipeline (Reds) 120mm Brick Bond Borders for Parquet Flooring
Soldier borders can be used in a parquet design to delineate a zone, transition rooms or as another design element. Soldier borders are made from the very same timbers salvaged, re-milled and recycled to produce Earthwood’s Gladstone Pipeline floorboards.
Gladstone Pipeline (Reds) Brick Bond Borders for Parquet Flooring is sold by the lineal meter, and supplied in 95mm lengths x 120mm wide:
- 120mm x 95mm Brick Bond Borders – reclaimed, re-milled. 15mm thick with 3mm re-sandable surface


Acer palmatum Miwa is a medium sized upright with light green leaves in the spring. The light green leaves can have a rose colored overtone which transitions to yellow and gold with hints of scarlet red in the fall. The leaves have visible veins which is known as reticulation. This is a lovely, soft flowing maple – whose name in Japanese the name means ‘graceful beauty’.
Miwa is often confused with Tiger Rose, a cultivar that also has light green reticulated leaves in the spring. It is hard to choose between the two as both are lovely and both grow in a vase shape. The ‘V’ structure necessitates that branches that cross between the two or three largest limbs are removed. Removing these branches allows for air flow and prevents the build up of dead leaves that can clog the space. All Japanese Maple require some pruning to form the structure of the tree and to remove dead branches. For more information see Pruning Japanese Maples.
Acer palmatum Miwa prefers sun until early afternoon and shade after 1:00 pm in the summer. In the hottest climates only morning sun until 11:00 am is recommended. Once established this cultivar can reach 6-8′ in 10 years and is hardy to -20, USDA zone 5. For more information please see Care and Maintenance of Japanese Maples.
If you love Japanese Maples as much as I do, you can learn more about these amazing trees by joining the Facebook Group – Japanese Maples and Conifers.It is free to join – you just have to be a Facebook member. The contributors to the group have a wealth of experience and post many photos.
The first photo shows the beautiful fall color of this special cultivar. The second photo is courtesy of Buchholz Nursery and shows the delicate spring color. The last photo shows the transition to fall color. Miwa was discovered and introduced by Buchholz Nursery as part of their Flora Wonder ™ Collection.


Von Rütte Estate
19 June 2021
In 1870, the architect Friedrich Ludwig von Rütte (1829-1903) bought the former 15th-century estate of a Bernese patrician family and converted it into a stately holiday home.
As a result of the lowering of Lake Biel following the correction of the Jura waters (1868-1891), the estate gained additional land.
On this new land, he created a park based on the English Garden, to which he added a Chinese pavilion.
The estate near the village of Sutz-Lattrigen (canton of Bern) is owned by a foundation nowdays.
(Source and further information: www.vonruettegut.ch).