Friday 7 March 2014

Thorny subjects

Recently, Ive been planning a garden, that young children will use. In the past, when designing with children in mind, Ive had a few discussions with clients who are concerned about introducing any plants with thorns or similar.
Ive spent my childhood playing in large gardens with all kinds of plants, and later moving to a house that bordered a nature reserve with other types of dangers. My parents taught me to be careful of any plants that I didnt know about, and to have a healthy respect for nature.
I really do believe that being given a fair amount of freedom, and not being kept too safe made me into the independent person I am today.
Gardens are like life - they are full of beauty and full of danger, but they help to teach us where our boundaries should be. Sometimes these boundaries are found by standing on thorns, or being stung by insects, sometimes even breaking bones from falling out of trees, but every bit of pain was a valuable lesson learned.
A garden for a child without danger whether imagined or real is boring and lacks stimulation.
Obviously its extremely important not to place life threatening plants or objects into a garden, but to have a completely sterile and safe environment teaches us nothing about life outside the garden.
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Carter Gardens Eureka California

The Carter Gardens in Eureka are an excellent local gardening resource.

Carter House Inn guests are invited to help in the harvest, gathering produce for the meals.  "In addition to supplying the inns restaurant with produce of the highest quality and freshness, the Carter
Gardens have become a center for horticultural education, home to organic gardening seminars, lecture series, and interpretive tours given by the inns Master Gardener." (source)

The Carter Gardens Plant Lists are a wonderful resource for planning your own gardens.

List of Herbs 
List of Flowers
List of Hotel Garden Plantings
List of Greens
List of Vegetables

Carter House Inns & Restaurant 301
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free landscaping designs

Free landscape patterns can serve as a fantastic reference to collect ideas for the land. Particularly if do not have a lot of time to invest in pondering a design along with layout on your landscape, it is better than find tips from other landscape styles. The pictures and data is available sometimes on the Internet or perhaps in catalogs along with magazines.

free landscaping designs



The world wide web is full of assistance and advice on designing your own landscape. After you have lined out the region to be designed, you can prepare how you would like it to look. While sporting a look at free of charge designs, make sure that they match the buildings of your creating and blend with its history. If you like the particular landscape design, check that the size is comparable to your terrain size. Normally, the design and also layout may well not look nice on the land. Examine what add-ons are used within the landscape design. It would be preferable to shortlist what kinds of plants, timber, water body, pathways along with lighting you need, and then locate matching patterns. This way dont need to look at unimportant or unacceptable plans.

There are also some free of charge landscape design software programs conveniently obtainable, like Smartdraw, that allow you to design your territory from scratch. Information related to landscape patterns, like forms, styles, strategy and plant life, is also for sale in abundance. When you can take your time, you can gain usage of this information free of charge. Otherwise you could get these advices from landscape design publications, but they will definitely cost money. In the event you only want to decide on an idea using their company landscape designs, there are various photos youll find on websites like With regards to.com. So its better to undergo these models and assess their benefits and drawbacks so you can get the best-suited design on your landscape. It can be fast and cost-effective for you.

free landscaping designs front yard

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Thursday 6 March 2014

Modern Dining Room Curtain Designs


Modern Dining Room Ideas


Dining Room Curtain Designs

Dining Room Curtain Designs
Many of us from a host of other fun homemade dinner in our dining room. One should eat only for the purpose of use must be designed so warm, comfortable and attractive. One of the main features of your dining room is probably out the window. Even at night the guests will probably notice that the number and shape of the dining room window and the manner in which decorated their homes as part of its overarching theme.

Dining Room Blinds  Designs

Dining Room Blinds  Designs

Blinds provides an easy way to cover windows of your Dining Room so that others can not see. They come in different sizes, shapes and colors, so even this simple technique provides many opportunities for creativity and individualism. If I do not care for vinyl blinds, there are also consider other styles, which are used as well. Some owners prefer the simplicity of hanging blinds that can be easily opened and closed may be fitted with curtains or fabric instead of molding.

Dining Room Curtain Designs

Dining Room Curtain Designs
Another easy accent for a dining room window is hanging fabrics. This piece of fabric or other substance may be adjusted to fit with the rest of the dining room decor in a color that coordinates systematically through your house. Steering wheels come in different lengths and styles, so even this simple clothes that you can use solutions that will allow you to design your dining room and Decorating.

Dining Room Curtain Designs

Dining Room Curtain Designs

The next level of complexity can Curtain Curtain, in a series of models, dining room designs . They complement the windows transparent and works well with summer or light décor. In winter, may add layers of heavy curtains of vision, with heavier fabric tied back by day and to hang loose covers it at night as a window. Please note that curtains and drapes will be cleaned regularly. Sometimes you can use a hand vacuum to remove dust from time to time, and she sent for heavy cleaning every six months or so.

Dining Room Curtain Designs

Dining Room Curtain Designs

Frilly curtains or tiebacks are exposed to many styles, including the CAD style to give a random, fun look. Curtains can in the kitchen, game or coordination with other floor coverings in the window that the level of your home.
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Garden Bloggers Bloom Day November 2011 The Colors Of A Fall Garden

Acer Sango Kaku
The colors of fall grace the landscape on this November Garden Bloggers Bloom Day. For this Bloom day I started with my trusty camera strolling through my own gardens then ventured down the street to the local pond for some more fall beauty.  Come stroll with me through my gardens and beyond.




The colors of fall are an infusion of reds, yellows, oranges and browns and the view is amazing this year. Here the Sango Kaku or Coral Bark Maple displays an array of golden to orange foliage.

It is absolutely amazing how something as simple as a hosta leaf going into dormancy can be so beautiful. 
Ajuga Burgundy Glow
Or a glimpse of the colors of Ajuga and fallen leaves ...
Miniature Fountain Grass Little Bunny

The grasses are lovely in the fall.  The delicate plumes of the Little Bunny fountain grass are even more vibrant now against the deep color of the Blue Star Juniper.
Stachys (Lambs Ear)


















Stachys (Lambs Ear) is what I refer to as "old reliable" in the garden.  Some plants have the unbelievable ability to come around full circle.  Once the spent flowers of Lambs Ear are removed it sparks new soft growth that makes a wonderful contrast with the fall colors behind it.


Sedum Brilliant


















Sedum Brilliant is another candidate for putting on a show for several months.  The large vibrant deep pink flowers fade to a rich autumn orange as seen here. 



Rosy Glow Barberry, Weeping Blue Atlas Cedar, Gold Mop
Cypress



















The Barberry Rosy Glow is starting its fall show as its foliage turns to a fiery orange-red.  In the forefront is one of my newest additions to the garden this year, Buddleia Lo and Behold, still displaying its lovely purple fragrant blooms.

Barberry Rosy Glow














Wow is the only word that can describe this...I am at a loss for words.
Knock Out Rose

Another new addition this year is the Double Knock Out Rose.  This beauty just keeps on blooming and blooming and adds so much new excitement to the garden.

Hydrangea Tardivia

Hydrangea Tardivia is still displaying its beautiful blooms.


Maiden Grass Yaku Jima and Sedum

Fall is busting out all over with the whimsical plumes of the Yaku Jima Maiden Grass against the lemon-lime foliage and deep orange blooms of Sedum. 


















and the colorful display of the Star Magnolia...





















It was been such a wonderful day for a walk in the garden that I decided to venture down to the local pond to take in some more fall color.















So peaceful and serene...













Moss really does grow on the north side of the tree.












Fall blooms by the lake...nature at its best...                 



More fall color and the end of the tour...

I hope you have enjoyed the tour of the fall garden. I like to think of fall as a time of renewal as well as transition.  As the trees lose their leaves and go into dormancy they are also preparing for spring and a new rush of growth to start the cycle over again. I also like to think that the part of the beauty of a garden is that it is "forever changing". 

For more gardens from around the world please visit our hostess Carol at May Dreams Gardens who has made every month of the year a wonder.   Embrace the beauty of November. 


"Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower."- Albert Camus


Happy GGBD and Happy Gardening!


Author: Lee @ A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved.


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Guest Post The Works of an Amazing Garden Photographer

Swallowtail Butterfly with Nikon D5100
I have the opportunity and pleasure of sharing the garden photography of Richard Dressner, friend and talented photographer. Rich has had a lifetime passion for being behind the lens of a camera and has become a serious photographer for the past two years.  Inspired by the blooms and visitors to his wifes gardens, he is now embarking deeper into the world of macro photography and the use of various lighting techniques.
"Heres looking at you, kid" with Nikon D5100
 Recently, Rich prefers his Nikon D600 for all photography over his Nikon D5100.  When asked what other lenses he uses for his close ups and long distance shots Rich replies, "I dont have a real maco lens but I use a Nikon prime 50mm f/1.8 lens when I need to get close.  It can focus down to twelve inches from the subject and is sharp enough to allow for deep cropping...  
Cleome Nikon D5100
For more distant subjects I use my Nikon 70-200mm f/2.8 VRII. It’s a very expensive lens but sharp and bright with outstanding vibration reduction". For general landscape, I use a Nikon 24-85mm. The Nikon D5100 is still a good little camera for travel, etc." 
Lillium 2 Nikon D600
Here are some photographs of the gardens. When asked which type of photography is his favorite Rich replies, "I dont have a favorite, but I do enjoy garden and wildlife shots."
Lillium 2 Nikon D600
With winter approaching, he plans to experiment with mysterious lighting and dabble in studio shots.
Monarch Butterfly Nikon D5100
Enjoy the rest of these amazing photos.  I cannot seem to get enough of them!
Monarch Butterfly Nikon D5100
"Murder in the Garden" Praying mantis and Bumblebee with Nikon D5100

Praying mantis Nikon D600
Praying mantis Nikon D5100
Sedum & Buckeye butterfly with NIkon D5100
Swallowtail Butterfly Nikon D5100
Water lily with Nikon D600
 According to Rich, "Photography is an interest that welcomes everyone. It can be deeply technical, but modern cameras are automated enough to allow people of all skill levels to achieve beautiful results, and flexible enough to grow with the photographer as new skills are acquired and the safety net of automation is no longer needed. If you shoot what you are passionate about, it’s a thrilling and rewarding pursuit."

As Always...Happy Gardening! 
 
Author: Lee@A Guide To Northeastern Gardening, Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. 

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Wednesday 5 March 2014

Sex Politics Religion and Budget

Sex, Politics and Religion. Three topics guaranteed to cause awkward subject changes, but Id have to add the topic of budget to those classics...
I loved designing this penthouse garden - but a clear budget is essential when preparing any design
Ive written about this subject before in How much does landscaping cost, but it still amazes me how uncomfortable people are about providing a budget for their landscaping. I know very often the problem comes more from clients not knowing how much is a realistic figure to set aside, but without at least a rough budget to work within, there is so much place for time-wasting.

I recently had two clients with two completely different approaches to the subject. The first fidgeted when the subject came up, and wouldnt give any guidelines. I worked on some ideas and presented the concept along with an estimate only to find that it was not within their budget. I went back to the drawing board to try to find a way of adapting the design to the budget, before eventually having to come up with a completely different design that would fit within the parameters. It seemed to me that the issue wasnt that they didnt know how much they could spend, because it turned out that they had a very clear budget - it seemed that they felt that disclosing how much they could spend would somehow disadvantage them.

My second client gave relatively clear guidelines. Knowing what the budget was, gave me a clear overall picture of what we could work with. When I presented the concept, which they loved, I was able to keep the costs within their budget so that they had enough left over for some garden furniture and some additional accessories.

The first project was fraught with frustrations from the start, while the second was a pleasure from start to finish.
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Daphnes under the apple tree


We choose Daphnes for this location for many reasons: they are located near the patio, so their fabulous variegation, structure and spring fragrance wont be missed.
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landscape design images

Three Great Locations to Find On the internet Pictures involving Gardens
Trying to find good landscaping pictures is certainly not easy. Though I am a landscape designer, We still shop around. I like to find out how new supplies are being used, perhaps new plants, or perhaps get some fresh ideas. A plant mixture will find my eye or perhaps interesting method to combine distinct paving rocks.

Let me claim that there are some really beautiful landscaping pictures on the market, whether it be an excellent paving design and style with a high quality installation, an awesome planting design and style, or just a fantastic overall style. Its just by purchasing so many available on the web, its hard to go to the right spots to see the great ones. Thus, how do we treat it?

landscape design images

Here are a few resources:

Google Graphic Search

Ive discovered Google Impression Search to deliver some good landscaping pictures, particularly in the start. I think when you move on inside the pages although, the choices be slim.

For anybody not familiar with Yahoo and google Image Lookup, just search for the word, like "patio designs". When the final results appear, see a top of the page and you will probably see several category selections. The first is World wide web, followed by Photos. Click on Photographs, and pictures in connection with patio designs will come way up.

The U . s . Society regarding Landscape Architects

The National Society associated with Landscape Architects gives out prizes each year regarding outstanding jobs. If you like modern day work, which is mostly what will you find, though sometimes theyre going to feature a some design. You will find both residential and commercial award winning design and style projects.

Exactly like most career fields, there are varies of brilliance. This is true for Landscape Designers and designers. Some have an overabundance expertise along with creativity than the others. You may just like one seasoned veteran work rather than another.

Popular Gardens

Well-known gardens are generally another location to take a look. Renowned Landscape Designers and Landscape Architects get often supplied designs pertaining to public landscapes, and some are incredibly, very nice. Perform a search for popular gardens (go to whichever phrases you want). These could be in the Oughout.S., nevertheless there are other folks throughout The european countries. England features wonderful yard displays and fashoins. Some which you may take a look at are generally Hidcote and Sissinghurst.

A lot of the concepts may be used in your own scenery. Through the previously mentioned sources, youll find landscape design pictures of grape planting designs, porches, pergolas, outdoor the kitchen, driveway styles, water features, private pools, and so on.

Youll know when you see any design thats a good one. They have that "wow" aspect. But some items to analyze are generally:

landscape design images photos


 Do the hardscape components go nicely together?
 Is your workmanship excellent?
 Does the grape planting design movement?
 What about shade and designs...are the vegetation interesting?
 Do fountain designs and/or wetlands look all-natural?
 Are there any kind of interesting backyard ornaments or perhaps architectural characteristics?
 Are sitting regions oriented to adopt advantage of the very best views?

And a lot important....is a landscaping that you would like to stay in?!

Susan Schlenger is really a Landscape Designer with a level in Landscape Architecture. To explore many landscape design subject areas and see photos from the girl landscape design projects, pay a visit to Landscaping Pictures. You will take pleasure in the Garden Video tutorials there additionally.

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Tuesday 4 March 2014

Waterloo Project





Over the second half of semester one and the second half of semester two we undertook a project titled Waterloo Open Space.
The first semester involved site selection and analysis, we started at a macro scale investingating Waterloo and analysing the entire area in groups. Following this stage we selected sites to work on and develop.
I chose Chaplin Close which provides sheltered accoodation for elderly and disabled residents in the heart of the Waterloo area.
After alot of analysis, meeting with the residemts and discussing my goals and objectives with tutors i decided to undertake a design that would meet the desires of Chaplin Closes residents but would also enage and benefit the surrounding community.
During my analysis I had highlighted the major routes and roads in and around the close that I felt degined Chaplin Closes immediate neighbourhood. To unite this neighbourhood I created a pocket park at the gateway from Waterloo Road and introduced a scheme of living walls throughout the neighbourhood. Furthermore I designed a sensory garden within the close again with living wall as a main feature but also a two tier pond and fragrant herbal plantiong beds.
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The Benefits of Mulching Your Garden

Mulching trees and shrubs is a good practice in keeping plants healthy and reducing landscape maintenance. Mulch helps conserve about 10 to 25 percent of the moisture lost from plants through evaporation and helps to keep the soil well aerated by reducing soil compaction that results from heavy rain. Mulch can also reduce water runoff and soil erosion as well as the likelihood of soil borne pathogens. Organic mulches decompose with time releasing small amounts of nutrients and organic matter into the soil. They help maintain a more uniform soil temperature (warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer) and provides an environment for beneficial soil microorganisms and earthworms.

Mulch serves its function best at a depth fo 2-4 inches and should be kept 1 to 2 inches from the base of plants to prevent bark decay. Keep in mind that mulch depth can depend on the type of material used and the drainage and moisture holding capacity of the soil. Sandy soils dry out quickly and often benefit from a slightly deeper mulch layer (3 to 4 inches). A site that stays moist may not benefit from mulching at all.

Mulch can be applied any time of the year, however the best time to mulch is late spring after the ground has thawed and the soil has warmed.  Mulching while the ground is still cold can delay soil warming and possibly inhibit plant growth. When fertilizing it is not necessary to remove the mulch as the nutrients will penetrate through the soil each time you water.

Practice good soil maintenance. Signs of plant stress could signal soil lacking in essential nutrients or components. A simple soil test can help to remedy this problem. Generally acidity of a soil can be controlled by adding lime to make it more basic or aluminum sulfate to increase acidity. Research the types of plants you have in order to determine the environment which is suitable.
 
Most evergreen trees and shrubs prefer a slightly acidic soil while many deciduous shrubs and perennials do not. Adding the same fertilizer to an entire garden can benefit some plants but can actually inhibit the absorption of nutrients in others. Ask your local garden center for advice on feeding your trees, shrubs and perennials.

Author:Lee@ A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2010. All Rights Reserved

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A Walk In the Garden

One of my favorite things to do is to sit in a chair on the outdoor patio with a cup of tea in hand gazing out on the garden.   The best time is in the morning or in the later afternoon when you can hear the sounds of the birds rustling in the trees and see the sure signs of spring as the first robin appears. 

It is a time to think and reflect on life and the mind will sometimes tend to wander.  It is a time of joy and serenity.  It is amazing just how much a garden can bring joy and contentment to our lives and this Mothers Day seemed to be the perfect time to take a stroll and checkout all the beauty that the garden has to offer. A gardener nurtures the garden to make it grow and thrive adding tender loving care along the way similar to the way a mother would care for and nurture a child.  One could say, "A Garden is Grown with Love". 

At this time of year the gardens are changing dramatically.  The azaleas are now in bloom adding much color and life to the garden.   The lavender panicles of the Wisteria gracefully cascade downwards from the magnificent arching branches and the wonderful sweet fragrance of the blooms lingers throughout the yard.  I take it all in.
 
 
The foliage of the hosta emerges above the soil like a slow motion movie and I am convinced they are growing before my very eyes. As I walk throughout the gardens I just gaze in awe at all that nature has to offer.

Back at the porch it is time to gaze and ponder some more enjoying the beauty of the day. There is a well-known saying about taking time to smell the roses and today for a brief moment in time I did just that.

Gardening is a love and a passion. It brings so much to life.  Maybe I will take some time to "smell the roses" again tomorrow.

Happy Gardening and a Happy Mothers Day!  Also a thank you to my mom who gave me the encouragement to pursue the passion of gardening that was within me.






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