Do-it Yourself

  • Container Gardens
    CONTAINER GARDENING - Add a splash of color in a flash! What You Need • Planter • Trowel/Spade • Plant Caddy • Soil • Plant Food • Saucer • Plants • Watering Can • Moisture Meter • Gloves • Hose • Coco Moss • Soil Moist How Do I? 1) Choose the style and size of container/planter you need (make sure it has drainage). 2) If it’s a large container, cover the drainage hole with a coffee filter or some other mesh... more
  • How To Plant Trees & Shrubs
    Shrubs and trees are the cornerstone of good landscaping. They add value to your home as well as year-round interest, enjoyment and beauty. Getting your new trees and shrubs off to a good start is critical to their development. The following recommendations will help you plant correctly and ensure desirable growth habits and shapes. WHEN: Certain times are better than others, however. A general rule of thumb is to plant them when you know they won't have to endure excessive stress. Planting in ... more
  • Laying Your Sod
    LAYING SOD - Instant Lawn! Well not so instant but, oh how gratifying when you are done. What You Need • Sod • Rake • Sod staples or pegs • Lawn roller • Hose • Sprinkler How Do I? Preparation before laying sod - 36 hours prior The area should be cleared of debris, including grass, rocks, sticks, and clumped soil. Use your rake to accomplish this.  Lightly compact the soil by walking over it.&nbs... more
  • Plants That Attract Hummingbirds
    While hummingbirds are attracted to many of the same nectar-filled flowers as butterflies, they are more strongly attracted to flowers which are tubular, lack fragrance and they prefer the color red.   Here a just a few plants that can help you.   Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Likes rich, fertile soil and is best in partial shade. Known for its variety of colorful foliage, then in the spring to early summer sends up long-lasting wands of tiny flower... more
  • Seeding Your Lawn
    What You Need  Grass Seed Spreader (Drop or Broadcast) Fertilizer Lime Hose Round-up Soil Test Kit Sprinkler Sprayer Seeding Soil Gloves Rake   Grass Mat    How Do I? ... more
  • The Right Stuff For Rhododendrons
    The Right Site Rhododendrons don’t like to sit in water. They prefer a sloped area where the water drains away. If you don’t have a slope, plant in a raised bed. The Right Soil Rhododendrons need loose soil amended with organic matter with a PH lower than 6.5. 2 Parts finely ground bark to 1 part sand is a good soil for back filling the hole. The Right Way To Plant For container plants: remove from pot, loosen the soil from the roots with your fingers leaving about 6-8 inc... more