Mar
31
Landscape Gardening Apprenticeship - 12 Basics You Should Know About Landscape Gardening Apprentices
Filed Under Building A Raised Garden | Comments Off
Abhishek Agarwal asked:
We will go into the purpose behind taking up and completing apprenticeship in landscape gardening in this article. We will also detail the requirements for taking up landscaping professionally.
What to expect after completing apprenticeship in landscape gardening?
If you look around, you will find many amateur landscapers that take up small time commercial or residential landscaping projects. They are also professionals in their own capacity, however, are not considered as qualified landscape architects.
One needs to undergo an extensive degree program to specialize in landscaping, and post-completion he/she is considered a certified landscape architect qualified to take up any huge commercial or public project. One can also opt for apprenticeship in landscape gardening to qualify for professional certification.
No Easy Task
Please be aware that finishing an apprenticeship in landscape gardening is no easy affair. The landscape apprentice is always a working landscaper and is usually assigned most dirtiest and difficult tasks involved in landscaping. This is to help the apprentice learn about the art from all the perspectives from start till the end.
It is quite normal for an apprentice to be seen digging holes, lifting heavy equipments, indulging in severe physical labor irrespective of weather conditions and handling all types of chemicals on the field. There is no better way for a landscaper to improve his art than getting down to the nitty-gritty of each manual task. He/she must also be efficient in mathematical calculations and possess good eyesight necessary to operate the landscaping machines.
Details
1. The apprenticeship in landscape gardening covers various terrains to gain in depth experience and knowledge.
2. Apprentices are taught the essential distinguishing factors between the commercial, residential and public landscaping.
3. The apprenticeship also covers interior and exterior garden designing and planning.
4. Apprentices are taught the importance and usage of various landscaping equipments and their appropriate application in specific projects.
5. Apprentices are taught in detail about various soil types.
6. They also learn the science behind the plants and trees growth, texture and sizes.
7. They are also acquainted with different methods of pruning, thinning and the varieties of sods.
8. Apprentices are also taught about the legal, environmental and licensing aspects.
9. Apprentices who are preparing to turn landscape architects are taught about the site analysis and surveys.
10. They are also taught about different landscaping software and their application in drawing effective plans. The same is taught with hand too.
11. Apprentices hone their artistic skills by learning how to present the plants in a landscape in a beautiful way.
12. Different view perspectives are also taught to the apprentices.
The Program
Completing an apprenticeship in landscape gardening is a four-year affair and there are several schools all over the world offering such degree programs. Please know that the qualified landscape architects are considered most professionally able people in their field and work on mega projects like designing public gardens, zoos and theme parks. They are often employed by corporate sector also to handle huge commercial landscaping projects.
In most instances, a professional landscaper would have completed his apprenticeship in landscape gardening. In case you are planning to employ a professional landscaper, you must make sure that he is professionally certified and skilled to deliver the desired results. Considering the extensive training that a professional landscaper receives during his/her apprenticeship, he/she will be worth every penny spent.
PETER
We will go into the purpose behind taking up and completing apprenticeship in landscape gardening in this article. We will also detail the requirements for taking up landscaping professionally.
What to expect after completing apprenticeship in landscape gardening?
If you look around, you will find many amateur landscapers that take up small time commercial or residential landscaping projects. They are also professionals in their own capacity, however, are not considered as qualified landscape architects.
___________________________________________________________________
One needs to undergo an extensive degree program to specialize in landscaping, and post-completion he/she is considered a certified landscape architect qualified to take up any huge commercial or public project. One can also opt for apprenticeship in landscape gardening to qualify for professional certification.
No Easy Task
Please be aware that finishing an apprenticeship in landscape gardening is no easy affair. The landscape apprentice is always a working landscaper and is usually assigned most dirtiest and difficult tasks involved in landscaping. This is to help the apprentice learn about the art from all the perspectives from start till the end.
It is quite normal for an apprentice to be seen digging holes, lifting heavy equipments, indulging in severe physical labor irrespective of weather conditions and handling all types of chemicals on the field. There is no better way for a landscaper to improve his art than getting down to the nitty-gritty of each manual task. He/she must also be efficient in mathematical calculations and possess good eyesight necessary to operate the landscaping machines.
Details
1. The apprenticeship in landscape gardening covers various terrains to gain in depth experience and knowledge.
2. Apprentices are taught the essential distinguishing factors between the commercial, residential and public landscaping.
3. The apprenticeship also covers interior and exterior garden designing and planning.
4. Apprentices are taught the importance and usage of various landscaping equipments and their appropriate application in specific projects.
5. Apprentices are taught in detail about various soil types.
6. They also learn the science behind the plants and trees growth, texture and sizes.
7. They are also acquainted with different methods of pruning, thinning and the varieties of sods.
8. Apprentices are also taught about the legal, environmental and licensing aspects.
9. Apprentices who are preparing to turn landscape architects are taught about the site analysis and surveys.
10. They are also taught about different landscaping software and their application in drawing effective plans. The same is taught with hand too.
11. Apprentices hone their artistic skills by learning how to present the plants in a landscape in a beautiful way.
12. Different view perspectives are also taught to the apprentices.
The Program
Completing an apprenticeship in landscape gardening is a four-year affair and there are several schools all over the world offering such degree programs. Please know that the qualified landscape architects are considered most professionally able people in their field and work on mega projects like designing public gardens, zoos and theme parks. They are often employed by corporate sector also to handle huge commercial landscaping projects.
In most instances, a professional landscaper would have completed his apprenticeship in landscape gardening. In case you are planning to employ a professional landscaper, you must make sure that he is professionally certified and skilled to deliver the desired results. Considering the extensive training that a professional landscaper receives during his/her apprenticeship, he/she will be worth every penny spent.
PETER
Mar
30
Is it possible to prune a white oleander plant to keep it at 6-8 feet? If so, for how long?
Filed Under Garden & Landscape | Comments Off
yentarican asked:
My landscaper planted two oleander plants in my front flowerbeds. They are 3-4 years old. I did not realize that they are supposed to be so large. Is it possible to continue pruning them to keep them 8 feet or less (pruning to 4 feet twice a year)? If so for how long? Will they look weird after a while? Do I prune again? Or just move the plants altogether? Thanks!
EDWARD
___________________________________________________________________
My landscaper planted two oleander plants in my front flowerbeds. They are 3-4 years old. I did not realize that they are supposed to be so large. Is it possible to continue pruning them to keep them 8 feet or less (pruning to 4 feet twice a year)? If so for how long? Will they look weird after a while? Do I prune again? Or just move the plants altogether? Thanks!
EDWARD
Mar
25
Houston Landscaping Ideas
Filed Under Gardening | Comments Off
Jeff Halper asked:
Do you cut out and collect magazine pictures of great landscaping ideas? Do you have a photo album of, say, a stately English mansion that you’d love to use for your home landscape design in Houston? Have you admired the plants and trees of European countryside estates and wondered if they would grow on the Texas coastal plains? If so, then you have a beautiful start to turning your landscaping ideas into reality.
Landscaping Ideas: The Gathering
Landscape design starts with ideas. Your ideas-before you bring in the professionals. It is the time to write down not only your needs, but also your wishes and deepest desires. This is true whether you want to landscape a two-acre homestead or install a small garden design.
Jeff Halper, landscape design specialist with Exterior Worlds, says, “Landscaping ideas help in your own landscaping design process. The more landscape ideas and photos one has, the better. Even landscaping ideas of things one doesn’t like can help landscape designers and landscape architects achieve the desired results.”
Landscaping Ideas: Elements to Consider
? Hardscapes. Hardscapes-the non-plant material of your landscape design-play a critical part of any garden landscape project. Types of hardscapes include pathways, retaining walls, pool decking and driveways. You will need to make material choices that range from basic concrete to decorative stone and brick to wooden decking.
? Luxury swimming pools. A swimming pool is a necessity for any upscale home. It finishes off the design of the house because it is a natural extension of your indoor living space. All choices about a pool should factor in safety. One way to do it is through the use of fences. Halper points out that they can be built in a non-intrusive way. “We like to hide fences and gates by weaving them among shrubbery. This method makes the pool area safe, up to code and aesthetically pleasing,” he says.
? Outdoor water fountains. Outdoor water fountains come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and styles. Additional features can be added, such as a cascading waterfall or a contemporary wall fountain. Whatever style you prefer, the main thing to remember is that your overall landscape will be improved if you use an outdoor water fountain that coordinates with the style of your home and garden.
? Outdoor kitchens. Decisions to make concerning your outdoor kitchen include whether to cover it or not. You will want to consider the overall size needed. For instance, for the chairs at the dining table, you need at least two feet away from any other element, especially the grill or any step-downs. Be sure to plan for adequate cabinet space. Counter top options include tile, granite, stone and concrete. Also you’ll have choices regarding overhead fans and types of refrigeration.
Landscaping Ideas: Theme Possibilities
? Modern landscape design. Modern garden design tends to focus on scale rather than formal or classic designs that are based on axial relationships from Greek, Roman, and classical architectural traditions. The architecture of the house needs to be carefully considered when using a contemporary garden design. The home and landscape can be tied together through selective use of plantings or the intelligent placement of a hardscape feature, such as an organic pathway to the front door.
? Formal landscape design. Formal landscape design invokes order and balance. Think of the gardens of Monticello, the landscaping of Versailles, and, closer to home, the gardens of Bayou Bend, which is part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
? English garden design. The English garden design is all about curved beds, winding paths and free-flowing color. The gardener’s hand is light. There-but just barely. Houston’s semi-tropical climate is well suited for vine-covered pergolas, sunny rose gardens, and sparkling azalea beds-all plant materials that fit well within the English garden’s concept of abundance.
? Mediterranean landscape design. The phrase to live by in this style is “Old World ambiance.” Favored materials include stone, weathered bricks, terra cotta tiles, flagstone, tumbled travertine, wooden beams, wrought iron, classical statuary and Roman columns, and outdoor furniture that evokes Arabian, Moroccan or Italian sensibilities.
ROLAND
___________________________________________________________________
Do you cut out and collect magazine pictures of great landscaping ideas? Do you have a photo album of, say, a stately English mansion that you’d love to use for your home landscape design in Houston? Have you admired the plants and trees of European countryside estates and wondered if they would grow on the Texas coastal plains? If so, then you have a beautiful start to turning your landscaping ideas into reality.
Landscaping Ideas: The Gathering
Landscape design starts with ideas. Your ideas-before you bring in the professionals. It is the time to write down not only your needs, but also your wishes and deepest desires. This is true whether you want to landscape a two-acre homestead or install a small garden design.
Jeff Halper, landscape design specialist with Exterior Worlds, says, “Landscaping ideas help in your own landscaping design process. The more landscape ideas and photos one has, the better. Even landscaping ideas of things one doesn’t like can help landscape designers and landscape architects achieve the desired results.”
Landscaping Ideas: Elements to Consider
? Hardscapes. Hardscapes-the non-plant material of your landscape design-play a critical part of any garden landscape project. Types of hardscapes include pathways, retaining walls, pool decking and driveways. You will need to make material choices that range from basic concrete to decorative stone and brick to wooden decking.
? Luxury swimming pools. A swimming pool is a necessity for any upscale home. It finishes off the design of the house because it is a natural extension of your indoor living space. All choices about a pool should factor in safety. One way to do it is through the use of fences. Halper points out that they can be built in a non-intrusive way. “We like to hide fences and gates by weaving them among shrubbery. This method makes the pool area safe, up to code and aesthetically pleasing,” he says.
? Outdoor water fountains. Outdoor water fountains come in a multitude of shapes, sizes and styles. Additional features can be added, such as a cascading waterfall or a contemporary wall fountain. Whatever style you prefer, the main thing to remember is that your overall landscape will be improved if you use an outdoor water fountain that coordinates with the style of your home and garden.
? Outdoor kitchens. Decisions to make concerning your outdoor kitchen include whether to cover it or not. You will want to consider the overall size needed. For instance, for the chairs at the dining table, you need at least two feet away from any other element, especially the grill or any step-downs. Be sure to plan for adequate cabinet space. Counter top options include tile, granite, stone and concrete. Also you’ll have choices regarding overhead fans and types of refrigeration.
Landscaping Ideas: Theme Possibilities
? Modern landscape design. Modern garden design tends to focus on scale rather than formal or classic designs that are based on axial relationships from Greek, Roman, and classical architectural traditions. The architecture of the house needs to be carefully considered when using a contemporary garden design. The home and landscape can be tied together through selective use of plantings or the intelligent placement of a hardscape feature, such as an organic pathway to the front door.
? Formal landscape design. Formal landscape design invokes order and balance. Think of the gardens of Monticello, the landscaping of Versailles, and, closer to home, the gardens of Bayou Bend, which is part of the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
? English garden design. The English garden design is all about curved beds, winding paths and free-flowing color. The gardener’s hand is light. There-but just barely. Houston’s semi-tropical climate is well suited for vine-covered pergolas, sunny rose gardens, and sparkling azalea beds-all plant materials that fit well within the English garden’s concept of abundance.
? Mediterranean landscape design. The phrase to live by in this style is “Old World ambiance.” Favored materials include stone, weathered bricks, terra cotta tiles, flagstone, tumbled travertine, wooden beams, wrought iron, classical statuary and Roman columns, and outdoor furniture that evokes Arabian, Moroccan or Italian sensibilities.
ROLAND
Mar
24
Pronouncement For The Indispensable Landscaping Materials
Filed Under Gardening | Comments Off
David Faulkner asked:
Landscaping material is quite versatile for your landscaping needs. Most people apply mulch to their flower beds but this can cause a problem. The color of mulch will fade over time, especially when exposed to the sun. Mulch also attracts termites which could prove to be costly to your home.
The uses of landscaping material can provide a decorative appearance as well as being useful in helping your plants survive. The gravel is very effective in controlling the growth of unwanted weeds, especially if landscaping material is used underneath. Landscaping gravel has many benefits. In addition to the beauty it creates, it helps prevent soil erosion and helps to retain water and moisture for your plants. It provides a natural, finished look to water features, walkway edges, and the outside walls of your home. It is also a nice feature to have around a pool. If you want to provide drainage away from a wall, lining the wall with gravel will help you accomplish this task.
Dig Out the All-Purposeful Landscaping Materials:
There are various kinds of ornaments or structures that can be used to decorate you landscape area. There are several manmade structures like gazebos, water formations, trellises etc that you can integrate into the landscape. These are sure to make the area more interesting and more natural looking if they are made of natural materials that do not stand out.
The most common materials used in landscaping structures are wood and materials. Landscape stone is great because they come in many different kinds. The more common landscaping stone used for outdoor landscaping are granite, limestone and marble. These are three entirely different stone that can be utilized for landscaping purposes. Other kinds of stone used as landscaping stone are brick, sandstone, mountain quartz, adobe and so much more.
Landscaping Materials are Sometimes Gives a Matchless Look:
Use of Landscaping Materials for landscape boulders and slabs make for very attractive stone pieces in the garden. They give a rugged feel to the landscaped area and add to the natural beauty. It is sometimes better to use local stone or more natural colored stones for a natural looking garden. The more flamboyant materials can also be used but these need consideration about what kind of plants or flowers complement them. Some stone fit a more arid looking garden compared to darker colored stone which complement more foliage. For more info see http://www.onlinelandscapedesigns.com/Landscaping_Equipment/ on landscaping tools.
Other landscaping materials stone use is for low walls or low borders. Putting low walls in and around the garden can help segregate the place and also add to the beauty of the area. It is better to add low walls or borders instead of the higher walls since low walls give the sense of wideness and breadth. Some landscaping materials uses are for cut stone steps. Cut stone steps are very attractive in the landscaped garden or area. These can be used to lead people to other outdoor structures or areas. Stone furniture is often used to both decorate the garden and accommodate people who spend time at the garden.
WILFRED
Landscaping material is quite versatile for your landscaping needs. Most people apply mulch to their flower beds but this can cause a problem. The color of mulch will fade over time, especially when exposed to the sun. Mulch also attracts termites which could prove to be costly to your home.
The uses of landscaping material can provide a decorative appearance as well as being useful in helping your plants survive. The gravel is very effective in controlling the growth of unwanted weeds, especially if landscaping material is used underneath. Landscaping gravel has many benefits. In addition to the beauty it creates, it helps prevent soil erosion and helps to retain water and moisture for your plants. It provides a natural, finished look to water features, walkway edges, and the outside walls of your home. It is also a nice feature to have around a pool. If you want to provide drainage away from a wall, lining the wall with gravel will help you accomplish this task.
Dig Out the All-Purposeful Landscaping Materials:
There are various kinds of ornaments or structures that can be used to decorate you landscape area. There are several manmade structures like gazebos, water formations, trellises etc that you can integrate into the landscape. These are sure to make the area more interesting and more natural looking if they are made of natural materials that do not stand out.
The most common materials used in landscaping structures are wood and materials. Landscape stone is great because they come in many different kinds. The more common landscaping stone used for outdoor landscaping are granite, limestone and marble. These are three entirely different stone that can be utilized for landscaping purposes. Other kinds of stone used as landscaping stone are brick, sandstone, mountain quartz, adobe and so much more.
Landscaping Materials are Sometimes Gives a Matchless Look:
Use of Landscaping Materials for landscape boulders and slabs make for very attractive stone pieces in the garden. They give a rugged feel to the landscaped area and add to the natural beauty. It is sometimes better to use local stone or more natural colored stones for a natural looking garden. The more flamboyant materials can also be used but these need consideration about what kind of plants or flowers complement them. Some stone fit a more arid looking garden compared to darker colored stone which complement more foliage. For more info see http://www.onlinelandscapedesigns.com/Landscaping_Equipment/ on landscaping tools.
Other landscaping materials stone use is for low walls or low borders. Putting low walls in and around the garden can help segregate the place and also add to the beauty of the area. It is better to add low walls or borders instead of the higher walls since low walls give the sense of wideness and breadth. Some landscaping materials uses are for cut stone steps. Cut stone steps are very attractive in the landscaped garden or area. These can be used to lead people to other outdoor structures or areas. Stone furniture is often used to both decorate the garden and accommodate people who spend time at the garden.
WILFRED
Mar
22
Landscape Architecture Brisbane Provides the Best Services
Filed Under Business | Comments Off
printbeat asked:
The Landscape architecture Brisbane is expert in providing all types of landscaping services Brisbane. The landscapers Brisbane are expert in creating well done and specialized landscape construction Brisbane. The landscape architecture Brisbane is well-known all around the world. Nowadays, more and more people are opting for the landscaping Brisbane. Landscaping of Brisbane is a form of art which includes the patience, research and time of the landscapers of Brisbane to frame their methods in a right way. Consequently, the Landscape architecture Brisbane is considered to be a very challenging profession.
The landscaping of Brisbane adds value to your house as well as your property. It is a fact that people pay more for a house and/or property that appears fastidious and is properly maintained. Your home and belongings will have the most equities if it is a worthy market value. The landscapers of Brisbane beyond doubt do a favor on their clients by adding value to their assets and properties. The landscaping of Brisbane involves the make use of of various profound duty landscaping items and a series of essential activities that would add glamour and value to your property and asset. The Landscape architecture Brisbane has now become an inevitable task for all the individuals around the earth, who want to add appeal to their possessions.
If you do not know how to find out the best landscaping services of Brisbane, then you can use the internet. Further, you may not know the websites that offer the Landscape architecture Brisbane services online. Consequently, you can take the help of a handy search engine. There is a range of search engines available online that could be used by you. You just have to enter the appropriate key words in the search bar of the search engine and it would bestow you will a large number of websites that offer the landscaping services of Brisbane. You can refer an assortment of company websites and then come to an end. This is very helpful to you for the assessment of rates and other essential aspects of different Landscape architecture Brisbane companies. This would definitely spare your time, money and vigor for going on a look for to find out optimal landscaping services Provider Company of Brisbane.
The landscaping architecture of Brisbane is also very definite and fine-looking. The architects of Brisbane are very accomplished as well as on the ball in their field. As a result, more and more individuals round the world approach them for their landscaping purposes. With the help of their architectural skill, the landscapers of Brisbane have given aesthetic significance to a number of properties and assets. The landscaping of Brisbane is a multi-disciplinary sphere. It includes the science, art, politics, philosophy, mathematics, engineering, social sciences, history, technology etc. The gears of the Landscape architecture Brisbane are form, scale, texture, line and color. These combinations are used to create all the modern marvels that are definitely praise worthy. The principles of the landscaping of Brisbane are balance, focalization, rhythm, simplicity, repetition, proportion, transition and unity. The landscapers of Brisbane employ all these principles rationally in order to obtain the design of landscape that they have meant.
John
full color printing
ASHLEY
The Landscape architecture Brisbane is expert in providing all types of landscaping services Brisbane. The landscapers Brisbane are expert in creating well done and specialized landscape construction Brisbane. The landscape architecture Brisbane is well-known all around the world. Nowadays, more and more people are opting for the landscaping Brisbane. Landscaping of Brisbane is a form of art which includes the patience, research and time of the landscapers of Brisbane to frame their methods in a right way. Consequently, the Landscape architecture Brisbane is considered to be a very challenging profession.
The landscaping of Brisbane adds value to your house as well as your property. It is a fact that people pay more for a house and/or property that appears fastidious and is properly maintained. Your home and belongings will have the most equities if it is a worthy market value. The landscapers of Brisbane beyond doubt do a favor on their clients by adding value to their assets and properties. The landscaping of Brisbane involves the make use of of various profound duty landscaping items and a series of essential activities that would add glamour and value to your property and asset. The Landscape architecture Brisbane has now become an inevitable task for all the individuals around the earth, who want to add appeal to their possessions.
If you do not know how to find out the best landscaping services of Brisbane, then you can use the internet. Further, you may not know the websites that offer the Landscape architecture Brisbane services online. Consequently, you can take the help of a handy search engine. There is a range of search engines available online that could be used by you. You just have to enter the appropriate key words in the search bar of the search engine and it would bestow you will a large number of websites that offer the landscaping services of Brisbane. You can refer an assortment of company websites and then come to an end. This is very helpful to you for the assessment of rates and other essential aspects of different Landscape architecture Brisbane companies. This would definitely spare your time, money and vigor for going on a look for to find out optimal landscaping services Provider Company of Brisbane.
The landscaping architecture of Brisbane is also very definite and fine-looking. The architects of Brisbane are very accomplished as well as on the ball in their field. As a result, more and more individuals round the world approach them for their landscaping purposes. With the help of their architectural skill, the landscapers of Brisbane have given aesthetic significance to a number of properties and assets. The landscaping of Brisbane is a multi-disciplinary sphere. It includes the science, art, politics, philosophy, mathematics, engineering, social sciences, history, technology etc. The gears of the Landscape architecture Brisbane are form, scale, texture, line and color. These combinations are used to create all the modern marvels that are definitely praise worthy. The principles of the landscaping of Brisbane are balance, focalization, rhythm, simplicity, repetition, proportion, transition and unity. The landscapers of Brisbane employ all these principles rationally in order to obtain the design of landscape that they have meant.
John
full color printing
ASHLEY
Mar
19
Landscaping: Find yourself a Great Landscaping Picture
Filed Under Gardening | Comments Off
Nicholas Tan asked:
If you can find yourself a wonderful landscaping picture you will be that much closer to designing your yard, just like that. This landscaping picture will give you all of the inspiration that you need to come up with the most gorgeous and eye catching ideas around. It is hard to think of all of the best landscaping ideas on your own, especially if you have never taken on a project like this before. So if you are new, do not worry, use a landscaping picture to help you come up with some fabulous ideas, in fact use a few!
Even if you choose to work with a professional landscaper for your yard you should make sure that they show you a landscaping picture. This landscaping picture should show you what they expect your home to look like once it has been completed. This is important as it will help you to choose the right landscaper for the job. The landscaping picture that they show you will tell you a lot about the landscaper. The landscaping picture will tell you how much imagination the landscaper has as well as how much work they actually plan on doing. So never, choose a landscaper until you see some kind of landscaping picture.
This is not the only landscaping picture that your landscaper should show you either. You should also ask that he show you at least one landscaping picture of a job he has completed in the past. The best landscapers usually have more than on landscaping picture, they usually have a portfolio that they will let you flip through. This is so useful because you will see exactly the kind of service you will be getting if you choose this company.
It is important to take care with all of the decisions like this. This is the entire look of your home. When people walk by your house you want them to notice it for how gorgeous and wonderful it looks, not how run down. Having a lovely garden can make all of the different so start thinking about getting in a professional landscaper today. Just make sure that you have him show you a good landscaping picture first and you will be way ahead of the game.
TRACY
If you can find yourself a wonderful landscaping picture you will be that much closer to designing your yard, just like that. This landscaping picture will give you all of the inspiration that you need to come up with the most gorgeous and eye catching ideas around. It is hard to think of all of the best landscaping ideas on your own, especially if you have never taken on a project like this before. So if you are new, do not worry, use a landscaping picture to help you come up with some fabulous ideas, in fact use a few!
Even if you choose to work with a professional landscaper for your yard you should make sure that they show you a landscaping picture. This landscaping picture should show you what they expect your home to look like once it has been completed. This is important as it will help you to choose the right landscaper for the job. The landscaping picture that they show you will tell you a lot about the landscaper. The landscaping picture will tell you how much imagination the landscaper has as well as how much work they actually plan on doing. So never, choose a landscaper until you see some kind of landscaping picture.
This is not the only landscaping picture that your landscaper should show you either. You should also ask that he show you at least one landscaping picture of a job he has completed in the past. The best landscapers usually have more than on landscaping picture, they usually have a portfolio that they will let you flip through. This is so useful because you will see exactly the kind of service you will be getting if you choose this company.
It is important to take care with all of the decisions like this. This is the entire look of your home. When people walk by your house you want them to notice it for how gorgeous and wonderful it looks, not how run down. Having a lovely garden can make all of the different so start thinking about getting in a professional landscaper today. Just make sure that you have him show you a good landscaping picture first and you will be way ahead of the game.
TRACY
Mar
19
Can someone tell me what time of year to trim Knockout Roses and how to do it?
Filed Under Garden & Landscape | Comments Off
gchasselbeck asked:
I live in Cincinnati Ohio and our landscaper put in what he calls Knockout Rose bushes. They have been in for one year now and I’m not sure what kind of care and feeding we should be giving them.
KENNETH
I live in Cincinnati Ohio and our landscaper put in what he calls Knockout Rose bushes. They have been in for one year now and I’m not sure what kind of care and feeding we should be giving them.
KENNETH
Mar
14
Classic Landscape Design and Traditional Landscape Design in Houston Texas
Filed Under Gardening | Comments Off
Jeff Halper asked:
In the first millennium, a wealthy Roman family would most likely have had a garden surrounding their home. In it, you might find an open-air palazzo, pergola-style structures dripping with vines and blooming flowers, a dining area with couches for relaxation, water features such as an outdoor water fountain or wall fountain, and walkways that led out into the garden proper, perhaps to a prized rosebush or into an olive grove. These are some of the elements characterizing what is now called classical landscape design, also known as traditional landscape design.
Classical landscape design is a subset of formal landscape design that uses linear, clean lines to develop an uncluttered look. These lines can be drawn with rows of trees and well-trimmed hedges, perfect plantings for the classical landscape design. Or perhaps a seat wall made of regimented terra cotta tiles can do double-duty. Here and there, vines, such as ivy or wisteria, can soften any harshness. In this regard, this style is similar to the Mediterranean landscape design with its Roman and Greek influences.
The History of Classical Landscape Design
Borrowing influences from previous civilizations, classical landscape design solidified in Rome and the surrounding countryside. Villas were built with comfortable courtyards, sparkling with the sound of water, shaded by large trees, fragrant with rosemary and citrus fruits. It was from this setting that we got the term “pleasure garden.”
In England of the late 1700s, property owners started looking backwards, past the Baroque period and the Renaissance, to the beginnings of western civilization. There, they found classical landscapes making use of woods, water, indigenous plants and small temples. These elements were incorporated into the gardens of that day, further defining the principles of traditional landscape design.
By the way, when Rome fell to the barbarians, the gardens had become so exquisite that the barbarians chose not to ransack them. Instead they kept them up and learned from them. This development is one of the early examples of how we, as humans, learned that beauty can change the world: it can stop violence. This principle is now being used to good effect in gardens started as rehabilitation projects in prisons, inner cities and ghettos.
Choices in Classical Landscape Design
As with all landscape design, the architecture of the house needs to be considered when using a traditional landscape design. For this style, the home and landscape can be tied together through the subtle placement of a hardscape feature, such as the use of tumbled travertine for the courtyard flooring.
Because of the formal principles inherent in this style, you want to strike a balance when choosing materials between boring blandness and baroque lavishness. Think instead in terms of interesting variety. For instance, well-contained decorative gravel can provide color and texture. Courtyards, pool decking and patios should use materials that are symmetrical, in keeping with the formal style. Stone, terra cotta tiles and flagstone are appropriate choices. Granite benches, concrete grottoes and marble urns add sturdiness and reference antiquities.
Your preference for classical landscape design can also be demonstrated in the plants you choose. Your residential garden will be enhanced by fruit trees and other dwarf trees-or perhaps a stand of cypress, mulberry or fig trees. The cheery colors of marigolds, hyacinths and roses are well suited for the classical landscape design. Herbs planted in terra cotta pots scent the air and provide fresh flavor in your outdoor kitchen cooking.
Hardscapes in Classical Landscape Design
Color, form, line, scale, and texture are your means of expressing classical landscape design preferences just as they are with modern landscape design.
Hardscapes to include:
? Outdoor rooms for outdoor living. These living areas, in effect, make your home bigger. They also serve to create transition areas that connect the indoor and outdoor spaces. Plus, they further the notion that a garden is a place of rejuvenation. In particular, outdoor kitchens are important to the traditional landscape design.
? Outdoor water fountains. If you remember your ancient world history classes, you know that the Romans perfected the aqueduct. So water is prized within classical landscape design and nothing showcases it like a picture-perfect outdoor water fountain. Look for fountains in formal, Romanesque, Italianate, Mediterranean and rustic styles. Those made of tile, cast stone, cast iron and concrete work particularly well with this style.
? Swimming pools. When placed within a classical landscape design, the shape of your swimming pool should tend towards basic geometric shapes like rectangles and ovals. Thus, the shape of the pool frames the water and turns it into a classical design element of the landscape. It is often efficient to combine the pool with an outdoor water fountain to eliminate some maintenance redundancies.
? Landscape lighting. Landscape lighting is another important element of traditional landscape design as it creates ambiance and lets you enjoy the outdoors, night and day.
Classical Landscape Design: A Houston Setting
“We implemented a classical landscape design for one of our Houston clients, whose home was French Country. For the garden, we chose a design that closely resembles a famous garden in Florence,” says Jeff Halper with Exterior Worlds. “The landscape design makes good use of gravel and limestone, which looks very natural in a Houston garden. And we planted boxwoods, which we trim and shape regularly as part of a well-thought-out residential landscape maintenance plan. It is a lovely and relaxing space.”
JOHNNY
In the first millennium, a wealthy Roman family would most likely have had a garden surrounding their home. In it, you might find an open-air palazzo, pergola-style structures dripping with vines and blooming flowers, a dining area with couches for relaxation, water features such as an outdoor water fountain or wall fountain, and walkways that led out into the garden proper, perhaps to a prized rosebush or into an olive grove. These are some of the elements characterizing what is now called classical landscape design, also known as traditional landscape design.
Classical landscape design is a subset of formal landscape design that uses linear, clean lines to develop an uncluttered look. These lines can be drawn with rows of trees and well-trimmed hedges, perfect plantings for the classical landscape design. Or perhaps a seat wall made of regimented terra cotta tiles can do double-duty. Here and there, vines, such as ivy or wisteria, can soften any harshness. In this regard, this style is similar to the Mediterranean landscape design with its Roman and Greek influences.
The History of Classical Landscape Design
Borrowing influences from previous civilizations, classical landscape design solidified in Rome and the surrounding countryside. Villas were built with comfortable courtyards, sparkling with the sound of water, shaded by large trees, fragrant with rosemary and citrus fruits. It was from this setting that we got the term “pleasure garden.”
In England of the late 1700s, property owners started looking backwards, past the Baroque period and the Renaissance, to the beginnings of western civilization. There, they found classical landscapes making use of woods, water, indigenous plants and small temples. These elements were incorporated into the gardens of that day, further defining the principles of traditional landscape design.
By the way, when Rome fell to the barbarians, the gardens had become so exquisite that the barbarians chose not to ransack them. Instead they kept them up and learned from them. This development is one of the early examples of how we, as humans, learned that beauty can change the world: it can stop violence. This principle is now being used to good effect in gardens started as rehabilitation projects in prisons, inner cities and ghettos.
Choices in Classical Landscape Design
As with all landscape design, the architecture of the house needs to be considered when using a traditional landscape design. For this style, the home and landscape can be tied together through the subtle placement of a hardscape feature, such as the use of tumbled travertine for the courtyard flooring.
Because of the formal principles inherent in this style, you want to strike a balance when choosing materials between boring blandness and baroque lavishness. Think instead in terms of interesting variety. For instance, well-contained decorative gravel can provide color and texture. Courtyards, pool decking and patios should use materials that are symmetrical, in keeping with the formal style. Stone, terra cotta tiles and flagstone are appropriate choices. Granite benches, concrete grottoes and marble urns add sturdiness and reference antiquities.
Your preference for classical landscape design can also be demonstrated in the plants you choose. Your residential garden will be enhanced by fruit trees and other dwarf trees-or perhaps a stand of cypress, mulberry or fig trees. The cheery colors of marigolds, hyacinths and roses are well suited for the classical landscape design. Herbs planted in terra cotta pots scent the air and provide fresh flavor in your outdoor kitchen cooking.
Hardscapes in Classical Landscape Design
Color, form, line, scale, and texture are your means of expressing classical landscape design preferences just as they are with modern landscape design.
Hardscapes to include:
? Outdoor rooms for outdoor living. These living areas, in effect, make your home bigger. They also serve to create transition areas that connect the indoor and outdoor spaces. Plus, they further the notion that a garden is a place of rejuvenation. In particular, outdoor kitchens are important to the traditional landscape design.
? Outdoor water fountains. If you remember your ancient world history classes, you know that the Romans perfected the aqueduct. So water is prized within classical landscape design and nothing showcases it like a picture-perfect outdoor water fountain. Look for fountains in formal, Romanesque, Italianate, Mediterranean and rustic styles. Those made of tile, cast stone, cast iron and concrete work particularly well with this style.
? Swimming pools. When placed within a classical landscape design, the shape of your swimming pool should tend towards basic geometric shapes like rectangles and ovals. Thus, the shape of the pool frames the water and turns it into a classical design element of the landscape. It is often efficient to combine the pool with an outdoor water fountain to eliminate some maintenance redundancies.
? Landscape lighting. Landscape lighting is another important element of traditional landscape design as it creates ambiance and lets you enjoy the outdoors, night and day.
Classical Landscape Design: A Houston Setting
“We implemented a classical landscape design for one of our Houston clients, whose home was French Country. For the garden, we chose a design that closely resembles a famous garden in Florence,” says Jeff Halper with Exterior Worlds. “The landscape design makes good use of gravel and limestone, which looks very natural in a Houston garden. And we planted boxwoods, which we trim and shape regularly as part of a well-thought-out residential landscape maintenance plan. It is a lovely and relaxing space.”
JOHNNY
Mar
14
Landscaping Pictures - 4 Tips To Find The Best Picture Before You Landscape
Filed Under Poor Quality | Comments Off
Abhishek Agarwal asked:
1. Why landscaping picture?
Most often we would have a picture in our mind telling us how exquisite and different we want our landscaping to be done when compared to our neighbors. However, it would not be as easy to explain it to another person; why not a professional landscaper himself? When you go through various landscaping pictures, you get that clear-cut defining ability and you can elaborate as to what exactly you are looking for. Even if you have no notion about how the landscaping needs to be done, these pictures would give great inspirations to proceed further. Seldom do people have practical and suitable idea of landscaping when they are doing it new. So when you are choosing to renovate your landscaping activity next, ensure that you look for various pictures suiting what you have in mind.
2. Professional landscaper and landscaping pictures
Always ascertain that, however specialized is the landscaper you have chosen, at the very outset, he would show you different landscaping pictures. This would help you in knowing how the landscaper has an idea for the look of your house once the activity is completed. Such pictures would assist you in choosing the apt landscaper for having your job done as the picture they manifest would give you more information about them, such as their imagination and what work they plan to do. Consequently, always make the choice for your landscaper only after you have seen some interesting landscaping pictures.
3. Flip through the pictures
You should never forget to ask your landscaper about the different pictures of landscaping which he has done in the past. These are usually completed projects and they would give you an idea about your landscaper’s proficiency at work. Experienced and the best of landscapers usually have more than one picture of their completed projects. They would also imply that you flip through their pictures portfolio and leave your decided choice up to them. Would this not give you abundant options to choose the right professional group?
4. Make the right choice
Landscaping would bestow upon that fabulous look of your house. Therefore, you would definitely want people passing by, to mention those affirmative statements as they observe your certified landscaping. A charming garden would give you not just what you are expecting, but more! Hence choose the right landscaper for your job deciding upon his pictures and lead the sport of perfect landscaping.
LINCOLN
1. Why landscaping picture?
Most often we would have a picture in our mind telling us how exquisite and different we want our landscaping to be done when compared to our neighbors. However, it would not be as easy to explain it to another person; why not a professional landscaper himself? When you go through various landscaping pictures, you get that clear-cut defining ability and you can elaborate as to what exactly you are looking for. Even if you have no notion about how the landscaping needs to be done, these pictures would give great inspirations to proceed further. Seldom do people have practical and suitable idea of landscaping when they are doing it new. So when you are choosing to renovate your landscaping activity next, ensure that you look for various pictures suiting what you have in mind.
2. Professional landscaper and landscaping pictures
Always ascertain that, however specialized is the landscaper you have chosen, at the very outset, he would show you different landscaping pictures. This would help you in knowing how the landscaper has an idea for the look of your house once the activity is completed. Such pictures would assist you in choosing the apt landscaper for having your job done as the picture they manifest would give you more information about them, such as their imagination and what work they plan to do. Consequently, always make the choice for your landscaper only after you have seen some interesting landscaping pictures.
3. Flip through the pictures
You should never forget to ask your landscaper about the different pictures of landscaping which he has done in the past. These are usually completed projects and they would give you an idea about your landscaper’s proficiency at work. Experienced and the best of landscapers usually have more than one picture of their completed projects. They would also imply that you flip through their pictures portfolio and leave your decided choice up to them. Would this not give you abundant options to choose the right professional group?
4. Make the right choice
Landscaping would bestow upon that fabulous look of your house. Therefore, you would definitely want people passing by, to mention those affirmative statements as they observe your certified landscaping. A charming garden would give you not just what you are expecting, but more! Hence choose the right landscaper for your job deciding upon his pictures and lead the sport of perfect landscaping.
LINCOLN
Mar
4
What kind of contractor do you call for this? Repairing ground erosion?
Filed Under Other - Home & Garden | Comments Off
tardis_mom asked:
In our community the ground next to an asphalt covered path has eroded over time and drops steeply from the path. We’d like to have someone come out and shore it up to prevent further erosion (probably from rainwater run off) and fill in the area with dirt. Who do you call for this? A landscaper or some other kind of contractor?
BRADLEY
In our community the ground next to an asphalt covered path has eroded over time and drops steeply from the path. We’d like to have someone come out and shore it up to prevent further erosion (probably from rainwater run off) and fill in the area with dirt. Who do you call for this? A landscaper or some other kind of contractor?
BRADLEY