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Algae vs Lichens In The Garden...

Posted by admin in Landscaping on January 20, 2010 | No Comments

What is your opinion on algae and lichens within the garden? Are you trying to discourage them or are you one of the select few who promote their growth. Let me introduce you to these algae and lichens, so you can make an informed decision.

Algae in glasshouses and polytunnels

Algae are the much-maligned green slimes found on ponds and as a greenish scum on paths and drives. You may be surprised to know algae is actually a garden plant, albeit a stem-less and non-flower…

Keywords:
algae, lichens, moss, fungus

Article Body:
What is your opinion on algae and lichens within the garden? Are you trying to discourage them or are you one of the select few who promote their growth. Let me introduce you to these algae and lichens, so you can make an informed decision.

Algae in glasshouses and polytunnels

Algae are the much-maligned green slimes found on ponds and as a greenish scum on paths and drives. You may be surprisred to know algae is actually a garden plant, albeit a stem-less and non-flowering specimen. Over winter, disgusting greyish-green algae often builds up on the inside glass of our garden sheds, glasshouses and polytunnels. The solution is to trim back any surrounding planting to allow as much light as possible to enter. Also try to leave the doors and windows open for a few hours each week to prevent the build up of stagnant air. If some of the slightly powdery scum still builds up, you can wipe it off glass with a mild detergent, whereas on polytunnels only wipe the plastic with warm soapy water.

Algae control on steps and paths

Algae and mosses often coat paths and quite dangerously garden steps; damp shade is again a big factor. Reducing shade will cut down on the amount of algae and moss forming; by increasing the access of sunlight, you will also reduce dampness. The application of a copper sulphate solution (commonly known as bluestone) is a time honoured and effective way to combat algae on paths. When applied correctly it has a residual effect that prevents regrowth for up to several years after treatment. Mix copper sulphate or “bluestone” at a rate of 10 grammes to 10 litre of water in a plastic container. Apply on a dry day, brush in, and then leave it 3 weeks to act on the algae. After 3 weeks brush again with a stiff bristled brush and “hey presto”. When applying any algae or moss control solution remember to avoid drift onto surrounding lawns, plants and vehicles. Use protection equipment when applying chemicals including a mask with a dust cartridge, safety goggles and impervious gloves with overalls. Remember, apply all chemicals according to the manufacturer’s instructions and heed those safety warnings.

Lichens in the garden

However, what happens when this algae teams up with a fungus and the two start to live in a mutually advantageous association or symbiosis? Well, in that situation you get a plant form known as a lichen. A situation where lichens grow in abundance is on old carved stone headstones in graveyards. Many of the age-old stones will display white growths often containing bright yellow or orange splashes.When I have occasion to attend a funeral in a graveyard, I am always struck by the contrast between the mourner’s dark garb and the pings and flecks of white, yellow and orange lichen growth. These growths are the lichens, growing where other plants would falter Lichens are tough devils, if there was an SAS for the plant world they would be the first to enlist.

Growing your own lichens

I feel lichens have a place within the garden, they happen to be an accurate indicator of low pollution, no harm in that. Lichen growth also adds a considerable amount of character to feature rocks, boundary walls, terracotta containers and stone garden sculptures. If you would like to encourage this type of growth, try this recipe for “lichen slurry”. Mix one tablespoon of ground up lichen to one pint of natural yogurt or buttermilk and mix well. Paint or dab this slurry onto the object you wish the lichen to grow on, sit back and be prepared to wait, as fine-looking lichen growth is quite slow to form. But, worth it.

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What Is Landscape Architecture?...

Posted by admin in Landscaping on January 17, 2010 | No Comments

Many times I have been asked what is the difference between a landscape architect and a landscape designer. Hopefully the following will answer this question.

The American Society of Landscape Architects, ASLA, provides the following:

“Landscape architecture encompasses the analysis, planning, design, management, and stewardship of the natural and built environments. Landscape architectural projects include design of public parks, site planning for commercial and residential properties, land reclamation, urban and community design, and historic preservation. Examples of landscape architecture include Central Park in New York City, TRW’s headquarters outside Cleveland, the “Emerald Necklace” of green spaces and parks in Boston, Sursum Cordan Affordable Housing in Washington, D.C., preservation of Yosemite Park and Niagara Falls, and the landfill reclamation of Fresh Kills in New York. Landscape architects have advanced education, professional training, specialized skills, and are licensed in 47 states.”

What is the difference between a Landscape Designer and a Landscape Architect?

The national professional association is the American Society of Landscape Architects, based in Washington. ASLA full members have graduated from an accredited landscape architecture program, have 7 years of education and/or professional experience and are state licensed. In Michigan, as well as all other States, a three (3) day LARE examination administered by the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards is required to be passed for state licensure.

Landscape designers do not have these professional credentials. Many state and local governments require designs to be stamped with a state registered Landscape Architect’s seal.

What can I expect the landscape architectural design process to be?
Various architects may have different approaches, yet all are aimed at the same result. Make sure you’re comfortable with the steps that the Landscape Architect defines. A typical process includes:

· Pre-planning – As the client, you discuss your desires with the architect and provide background, priorities, and any basic design guidelines. You’ll work together and define the overall scope and timeline. The result will be a proposed budget and statement of work. The landscape architect will then prepare a contract for you to sign.

· Project Planning – Further preliminary details are developed with you about the site and its function and usage. The site is analyzed and the Landscape Architect creates a list of development priorities, which you’ll approve.

· Preliminary Design – A review of the site, usage requirements, and environmental conditions are undertaken to create preliminary drawings. The Landscape Architect will show you design and presentation drawings showing the overall site concept. Initial construction cost estimates are provided, which you review and approve.

· Final design – Further detail is added to the concept. Material is selected and initial construction documentation is created. Where necessary, cost estimates are revised.

· Documentation – Additional detailed specifications and drawings are developed and provided to you for approval. The Landscape Architect may give you construction documents to assist you in soliciting bids from contractors and may help you review bids.

· Installation – Depending on your contract, the Landscape Architect may play an active role in representing you in your interaction with the contractor and provide on-site supervision. At the close of the project, the Landscape Architect will make a final inspection.

How do I find a good landscape contractor?

If you’re going to need referrals to contractors and other service providers as part of your project, ask the Landscape Architect about these people. They will typically have an array of competent people in the industry for you to contact.

What’s included in the landscape architecture contract?

Any reputable Landscape Architect will provide a written contract before beginning a project. This agreement will specify in detail the exact work to be done, the work schedule, the amount and payment terms of the landscape architect’s fees, and the responsibilities of each party to the contract.

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Right Carpet For Your Home...

Posted by admin in Floor-things on January 14, 2010 | No Comments

If you walk into any carpeting store, you’ll find yourself amazed at all of the choices that are there for you to pick from.  You’ll find textured plush carpets, saxony carpets, berber carpets, and even commercial grade carpets.  There are carpets that can be installed wall to wall, and carpets that can be cut to size with bound edges and carpet squares.

Your first consideration when purchasing a new carpet should not be color, even though it is important.  Your first consideration should be how much traffic you are going to have on the carpet.  If you plan to put carpet in the bedroom, then it won’t have as much traffic as carpet in the living room.

Stain resistance will also be important.  This is something to think about with any carpet, especially carpet that is going to be used in a dining room or play room area where there will be a stready stream of food or possibilities for spills.

You’ll also want to inquire about the rating of the carpet as well.  Indoor carpeting is normally rated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest rating.  Carpets with a 5 rating are considered the best for heavy traffic areas.  Rating of 4 are
considered outstanding and recommended for heavy traffic areas of your home.

Ratings of 2.5 to 4 would provide normal durability for your home.  Carpets that rate 2.5 or lower  should only be used with light traffic areas, such as bedrooms.  Choosing carpet based on the type of traffic it will receive can help you save a lot of money down the road, although you should buy carpet suited to your needs and requirements.

The highest quality of carpet you can buy is carpet made of wool.  Wool carpets are very expensive, although you’ll reap the benefits over years of use as wool will easily out perform any man made carpet.  Two of the best benefits of wool carpet include its natural soil resistance and it’s ability to retain appearance, meaning it won’t crush or wear down like other carpets.

The downside to wool carpet, is the fact that it is out of reach for most of us.  If you can’t afford to have woold carpet  installed throughout your entire house, then you should instead have it installed in the room that receives the highest amount of traffic.

There are several different man made carpets that you can choose from as well.  If you have a high traffic area, then nylon would be an ideal choice due to the durability.  Nylon is stain resistant as well, and repels mildew.

Carpets made of olefin is also a great choice for high traffic areas as it is very strong and easy to clean.  Polyester is another good carpet as  it is easy to clean and repels water based stains. Polyester is known for the look and feel of  wool, although it is much less expensive.

The color consideration is also important.  Light colored carpets create an effect of a larger space, although they do tend to show stains more easily.  Dark carpets on the other hand tend to absorb light, giving a room what many know as
the “cozy feeling”.

When you find a carpet that appeals to you, you should ask to take a piece of it home.  Look at it during natural daylight and at night under an artificial light to see if the color changes  at all.

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Posted by admin in Home Building on January 13, 2010 | No Comments

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How To Clean Your Hardwood Floor...

Posted by admin in Floor-things on January 8, 2010 | No Comments

It is easy to build a house using concrete and steel, but it is quite a challenge to do so using wood. You might wonder why this is so, when wood is, perhaps, one of the most common building materials there is around.

This is because, unlike concrete, wood is an exhaustible resource. Meaning, if nobody plants trees, then it’s not likely that we will get any hardwood. And since most of our forest are starting to get depleted, then it is likely that the availability and cost of hardwood would continue to rise over time. Thus, our hardwood floors deserve the best treatment, if we are to expect longevity and stability from them.

So how do we clean our hardwood floors to ensure that they last long enough for the next generations to enjoy and benefit from? Here are some tips you might want to consider.

First, when cleaning your hardwood floor, make sure that you use a broom that explodes at the ends. A broom with too fine bristles won’t trap the dirt and will only have it accumulate within the little cracks and creases.
Over time, this will damage your flooring and eventually cause wear. You won’t be able to notice the changes until the damage becomes apparent. Surely this is something you want to avoid.

Second, do not use oil based soaps to clean your flooring. There are cleaning liquids made especially for hardwood floors that won’t cause damage to their finish. Remember that a finish is what shields your hardwood floor from wear and spills, so must always check if the coat is still thick enough to serve its purpose.

Third, do not leave standing water or wet rags on your hardwood floor. If this is too late, you can choose to either sand the affected area or replace the plank where the damage has been done. But if the water has just been these for a short while and your finish is newly done, then you have nothing worry about. Just wipe the wet area with a soft dry rag and you’re good to go.

Cleaning your hardwood floor requires diligence on your part, because, well, hardwood floors deserve to be maintained properly. They bring stability and sturdiness to your living space. The least you can do is to make sure it is cared for properly.

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Should You Worry When there is A Decline in Home B...

Posted by admin in Home Building on January 8, 2010 | No Comments

There is no doubt that there is a decline in home building. This has been reported in the news by the various land developers but should you worry?

If you are looking at the big picture, yes because it has disastrous effects. The country’s GDP or gross domestic product will go down and so will consumer spending. People will be out of work and some businesses may even go bankrupt.

Should construction be your line of work and selling these materials is your business, yes you should also worry because construction firms will not buy the same volume of goods from you since there will not be many people who are willing to buy or build a house right now.

But what if you have a stable job in another industry and think it is time to build your home now? If that is the case, then there is nothing to worry about. If you have the money and want to move to a bigger home, now is the best time to find someone who can help you design, plan and make it come to life.

The reasons for these are simple. A decline in home building has it advantages mainly labor and materials are cheap so you can spend the same amount of money for more things. You won’t have a hard time finding a contractor because they will most likely give you a good deal rather than losing you to someone else which means they don’t have any business.

You should just tell them straight how much is your budget and add an allowance because there may be some unforeseen changes which have to be dealt with later on.

There are two types of unforeseen circumstances in construction. The first is customer generated which means you want something else done. The other is site generated which means there is something on the property that is creating the problem. In the event either of this happens, you have to be ready for it because in construction, everything looks good on paper but things change when people are actually working on it.

If you can’t afford to build a home, you can try to buy one right now because the price of real estate has slumped and this could go even lower. This means you can buy the house of your choice right now because there are a lot of unoccupied homes and people have to move in to them first before construction companies decide to build new ones.

Don’t forget a large number of them that have been foreclosed so there could also be a good bargain over there.

You won’t even consider building a home during a decline in home building or any other time if you did not have excess cash lying around and since that is not a problem, you can now go out there and find a contractor who can do this for you at a reasonable price.

So should you worry when there is a decline in home building? No if you are financially stable but if you are not, then it is time to tighten that belt because if you don’t, you could end up being one of hundreds of people who have lost their homes since last year.

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Remodeling ideas for your garage...

Posted by admin in Garage Remodeling on January 4, 2010 | 1 Comment

What is the easiest way to add more space to your house? Of course the answer is to remodel your garage. A very cost-effective way to gain more space for your house is to remodel your garage. You can greatly expand your home’s living space especially if you no longer use your garage to park your car using your driveway instead. Remodeling your garage can help you become more organized and stop storing everything in your garage. This is why you have a basement.

Your garage offers a perfect environment to house your workshop, studio or home office. Many people also find that their garage can also be used for a gym or for another living room designed for special activities. However, remodeling your garage does not necessarily mean that you have to sacrifice your storage space or your parking area. Garages today have become multifunctional, allowing cars, general storage, a workshop and even a home office all in the same place.

Because many garages are attached to the home they can benefit from the same comfort as a home: phone wires, heating and cooling and plumbing. All you need is a little imagination, a fixed budget and a plan.

If you think that by remodeling you might be losing too much storage space, you can always build a small storage space behind your garage to house sporting equipment, tools and other items.

Moreover, when remodeling your garage you should consider an addition above the garage. Adding a room for work space and even for living, for one of your kids(they usually love this) above the existing garage can give you additional space and also increase the value of your home without major changes to the floor plan.

If you feel the need to remodel your garage but you don’t know exactly what you want or need, you should consider the following ideas.

You can transform your garage into a laundry room if you have your laundry room in the basement. By building a laundry in your garage you will eliminate the need to go up and down the stairs.

A music studio can be a great choice for your garage remodeling plans if you or your kids have some tendencies in this direction. The garage is the place where many “garage bands” got their start. To avoid your neighbors’ complaints consider soundproofing your garage walls.

Another idea for your garage can be to transform it into a gym. If you have your equipment and you don not have enough place to use it indoors you can always move it into the garage and have plenty of place for your daily exercises and training. Also here you will not be bothered by anyone.

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