Cold frames are structures that insulate young plants when temperatures drop, but allow them to acclimate to the outdoor air and the strength of the sun’s light slowly. You could create a cold from bales of hay and an old blanket, but these cold frame kits have brought science and convenience to the craft of cold frames.
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Zen gardens are very unique landscaping designs that are also known as “Japanese Rock Gardens.” . The word “Zen” means “dry” and the Japanese word for this type of garden is karesansui, meaning dry landscape. Consisting almost exclusively of stones and sand, this type of garden became very popular in Japan during the Shogun era (1185-1573AD), when feudal lords sought to landscape their estates in emulation of Buddhist temples. Monks frequently used such gardens to represent complex Universal truths in simple forms, and they frequently used them as places of meditation to calm and clear their minds.
Although American popular culture commonly refers to anything that looks Japanese or Eastern as a “Zen garden,” a true karesansui never contains water. Instead, it uses gravel and sand to symbolize water. Usually the gravel is white or near white in coloration, although this is not a hard-fast rule in landscaping. The reason that sand and gravel are used as water substitutes is because they can be intricately sculpted in ways that water cannot. Using only a rake, a landscaper can depict ripples, sea waves, rushing rivers, or still, quiet lakes. Every so often, the gardener will alter these patterns to reflect the Buddhism belief that the only thing constant in the Universe is change itself. Even those things that appear to be the most fixed of forms are slowly being altered by unseen forces all around us. In many Buddhist temples even to this day, monks remind themselves of this truth by raking the sand in their Zen gardens while they meditate, seeking a still mind in the perfection of linear form, and creative insight in curved patterns of motion that wrap harmoniously around alternating forms.
In most Zen gardens, rocks take the place of vegetation. This is another aspect of their design that makes these landscapes highly unique. Stones carefully placed in the sand create focal points in the endless fluidity that surrounds them, allowing an infinite variety of wave forms to accent their structure and positioning. Buddhist monks, long before Einstein, understood the relationship between matter and energy. The interplay of sand and stone directly reflects this relativistic relationship with a set of simple, natural symbols that are easy to work with and peaceful to behold. The relationship between light sand and dark stone is another important symbolic element, and directly correlates to the concepts of yin and yang. It must be emphasized that black is NOT a symbol of evil in the Eastern World, but instead represents the receptive elements of the mind. In a similar way, white has nothing at all to do with our moral concept of good. It symbolizes the mind’s ability to express itself through intentional action. The careful placement of darker stones in lighter sand (or vice versa) is therefore never intended to represent a clash of opposites. Instead, it is meant to represent the dual nature of the mind as it perceives reality through contemplation, then acts upon it through intention.
One famous Japanese text even goes so far as to state that the most important element of Zen gardening is the placement of stones. The text goes on to say that rocks should always be positioned where the most attractive side faces the viewer. It also states emphatically that there should be a greater number of horizontal stones (or “chasing stones” as they are called in Japan) than there are vertical stones (called “running stones” in the text). Again, this helps emphasize the rising force of intent coming up from the depths of the mind. Intent is mystery in Buddhism, but its effects are clearly evidenced by action.
The philosophical function of rocks is complimented on the practical level practical level by decoratively arranging them to represent objects that are commonly found in Nature. Ancient Japanese texts on the subject recommend creating such features as mountains, lakes, seashores, rivers, and cliffs out of rocks of varying sizes. The only vegetation typically found in an authentic Zen garden is moss, which is trained to grow over rocks in emulation of forests growing along river banks, lakeshores, and mountainsides covered in forests. Very small shrubs are used at times to frame a Zen garden, but only as a perimeter element, and seldom, if ever, as a central one.Jeff Halper is passionate for Landscaping and wants to share infomation about that passion. At Exterior Worlds you can read more about Zan gardens or Landscape Design
The spring weather turns our attention to one of life’s great little pleasures. Flowers and plants add so much beauty and joy to the world around us. As the saying goes – “a little can go a long way”.
Gardening and planting represent a small investment in time and money which returns a great deal in smiles, a sense of accomplishment, and Cedar planters add beauty and class to the décor of any home and garden.
When placed in an outdoor setting, they truly showcase plants, flowers and shrubs in style. Let’s get to know a little bit about where we are planting our flowers, vegetables and plants. You can choose a cheap plastic planter or better yet, explore some uniquely crafted natural products that available in the marketplace.
Cedar is known for its durability and resistance to outdoor weather. It is a lightweight and stable wood that resists the tendency to bend or crack. This type of wood is bacterial and fungal resistant and releases a distinct cedar aroma that appeals to people but not insects.
In addition, the wood’s natural finish weathers to an attractive silver-gray, complementing the color palette of Mother Nature.
Because cedar embodies strength without compromising beauty, it also mixes well with other outdoor planters, birdbaths, benches or yard art.
Cedar planters are considered ideal, all-weather plant containers because its wood contracts and expands depending on weather and soil conditions. With terracotta, damage and fractures can occur due to the expansion and contraction of the soil. Because cedar is an excellent plant insulator, your favorite perennials and shrubs have a better chance of making it through harsh winters.
It is also true that cedar planters are versatile and can be displayed in a variety of indoor, outdoor and commercial settings. They can be used for window boxes, raised garden beds, patios and decks or strategically placed throughout a garden. The landscaping ideas for cedar planters are unlimited because they are not only functional, but also a true piece of art.
Although not very well understood by most, this kind of wood has many positive attributes versus other materials. For most gardeners, these qualities are important.
The advantages of cedar wood planter and boxes are abundant.
• Fibers contain oils that serve as natural preservatives.
• Natural oil makes is a great choice for moist and humid climates
• Appealing aroma.
• Strong and lasting wood for the outdoors.
• The thermal properties of cedar keep it cool, even on very hot days.
• Weathers to a beautiful silver-gray and mixes well with other décor.
• Naturally repels many insects
Cedar planters are a lasting and effortless way of showing off your home and its landscaping. The wood’s natural material fits perfectly in outdoor gardens, as well as indoor areas, bringing nature into your home, patio or garden space. It is well worth a little extra investment in a nice planter. It will show your love and attention to gardening well!Allison Thomas works for a Columbus, Ohio conservatory. She loves all gardening, plant and flower subjects. She actively researches and writes about Gardening Products including best gardening products
Petunias have done a 180 in recent years. They are much more tolerant of rain and many don’t need any deadheading at all. They mound, they trail and they bloom their hearts out. How do you know what type of petunia to buy? Here’s a petunia 101 on which types of petunias are best for your garden, hanging baskets and groundcovers.
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So you’re looking to invest in long-lasting and good looking outdoor furniture. Your neighbor has long been touting the virtues of teak patio sets, but you’re not quite yet convinced. Consider a few more reasons why you should take a chance on teak, and understand why this durable hardwood has been the choice of furniture builders for centuries.
From a purely monetary standpoint, teak chairs will normally run about $200 to $700 apiece, with full teak patio sets costing between $1,000 for smaller sets to around $5,000 on the higher end for larger or more ornate styles. While that may seem like a bit of sticker shock, other types of wood like wicker, cedar and cypress can cost just as much.
Wicker, a viable alternative for indoors or sunrooms, is the most fragile and prone to breaking down over time, but other softwoods (pine included) also require more maintenance than teak and are more likely to decay from environmental factors over the years. Metal patio sets can also be very pricy, and with them there is always the risk of rusting. Not only that, metal is heavy and hard to move and usually requires additional cushions to be comfortable enough to sit on.
All of that can add up to a hefty price tab. Other materials, like plastic, will offer cheaper options, but for the consumer looking for a long-term buy, plastic may not be the way to go. Because it is lightweight and breakable, plastic patio sets need to be replaced every few years.
One thing to remember about teak patio sets is that teak is some of the strongest wood used in furniture so it is not likely to break down, rot or become infested. Also, because of teak’s naturally produced oils, it will hold its natural beauty longer and will not be as susceptible to cracking.
What all of that amounts to is less upkeep, meaning less money spent on costly sealants and cleaners. More than that though is the fact that teak will hold up for so long you may never need to buy another patio set again. Talk about a money-saver.
Another thing to remember is that all teak is imported from Southeast Asia, Central or South America. However, because of its popularity and high demand retailers can offer teak patio sets at competitive prices, unlike many other imported goods and resources. Also, even if not ready to commit to a large scale set, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the benefits of teak patio sets starting out small with teak planters, flooring and even teak dog and cat houses.
Taking the plunge with a major buy such as furniture can be a nerve-wracking proposition, but knowing the facts is the best way to make sure of a sound investment. With that, teak patio sets offer a number of advantages over the competition that make it not only a dependable way to spend your money, but they also exhibit a timeless grace and beauty that you can’t find elsewhere.Tonya Kerniva is an experienced research and free lance writing professional. She writes actively about Teak Furniture and Teak Patio Furniture .
If you’re considering setting up a greenhouse on your property, make sure you do some planning before you get started. There’s a vast array of styles, sizes and price ranges when it comes to greenhouses. You could purchase a greenhouse kit, or build a greenhouse from the ground up. Regardless, you’ll have to think about some essential factors before you get started. Down the road, you will have saved a considerable amount of time.
Your first step is to carefully consider the best location for your new greenhouse. You might be lucky enough to have just the perfect flat parcel of land where you can build it. Or you might have to create a level patch of ground for it. As well, you need to take a good look at the trees on your property. You need to locate your greenhouse away from large, overhanging trees so they don’t block the sun.
You also need to take into account some weather related issues, like how much sun you get and the climate conditions in your area. If you live further north, you’ll get plenty of sunlight in the summer months. But in the winter months, not so much. If this is the case, you will need to supplement the sun’s light with a greenhouse lighting and heating setup. This, of course, is an extra expense and more work for you.
As well, take into account the heat and moisture levels in your region. If you’re in a dry climate, you’ll need to install a watering system. If you get a lot of rain in your area, proper drainage becomes a concern. Water and mud may have a tendency to pile up around the door and outside walls.
You also need to consider the wind. Strong gusts coming through the window or door could be very detrimental to your plants. You’ll want the windows and doors to be sheltered from strong winds.
You also need to think about what kind of foundation you’ll use. You can use a number of different materials, such as gravel, wood or cement. Some people cover the floor with tile or carpet. However, before you decide, think about the cleaning requirements for the material you’re considering and decide if it’s appropriate for you.
You can enjoy the benefits of a greenhouse on your property without having to be a professional contractor in order to set it up. But as you make your plans, you should attempt to think like one. This could be hard for you if you’re more into gardening than constructing. Ultimately, though, you’ll enjoy your greenhouse gardening much more if you take the time to make some plans.
Cabbage and kale are among the hardiest and most nutritious vegetables a home gardener can grow. They are also very easy to grow, especially for home vegetable gardeners in cooler climates. Beautiful, in shades of pale yellow to wrinkled steel blue and ranging in flavor from sweet and crisp to tangy, cabbage and kale are versatile vegetables with a long harvest season and a long storage life.
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I’ve had my EZ grip stainless steel compost pail for about a week now and I have to say, I could not be more pleased.
I have always considered myself fairly eco-friendly, and I’ve had a compost pile in the back yard for quite a while now, but up until now, I’ve been stuck with trying to remember to take out the fruit peelings and coffee grounds as soon as I was done with them.
For a while, we attempted to use a plastic container on the counter, but it invariably started to smell horrible and we ended up with a nasty fly mess, so that ended as quickly as it started.
Now at long last though, I think that I’ve found the solution.
This elegant little compost pail fits right on my (always messy, of course) kitchen counter and can hold up to a week’s worth of kitchen scraps before it fills up. All the while, because of the filter, it doesn’t smell! To make things even better, because it is stainless steel, I don’t have to worry about it getting knocked off the counter and cracking, unlike that ugly old plastic bucket.
The handle on it is great too, as I can carry it like a coffee pot without having to worry about grabbing it by the wrong part and spilling it all over the floor. The other handles are also great, easy to use and really comfortable. The lid fits on very tightly so I don’t have to worry about anything escaping or anyone getting into it.
Someone with pets or toddlers should know what I am talking about. This compost pail really is very well designed.
Because it is shiny steel, it is easy to keep clean. A quick swipe of glass cleaner, or in very bad cases a sponge and it is good as the day I bought it. The fingerprints I can live with, but if I really wanted to, I could also take care of those easily as well.
If you have a compost pile I really recommend this thing to make getting your compost out to the pile next to hassle free. If you do not already compost your kitchen scraps and lawn extras, there is no time like the present to get started. It’s a great way to reduce the amount of food waste going into the landfill and fertilize your garden as well.
I am building another lamplight greenhouse, so I can expand my study of roses under artificial lighting. I had some very astounding results from cuttings made during the winter and, believe it or not, several are blooming at this very moment in the garden.
My failures were also ever present, but from each 1 learned a lesson, be it in rooting mediums, temperature, hardening off, or what- ever problems beset the indoor gardener. One thing I do know is that it works if you know how to properly balance the lights and take certain other precautions.
I bought a dormant rose the second week in March, planted it in a pot and set it alongside my propagating box under lights. On April 27 I cut my first rose of the year, and I believe the first one in this area. It caused quite a commotion. When I told people I raised it in a basement they said I was “nuts.” The rose had never seen daylight until it was cut and brought out of the house.
The only limiting factor in this process has been space. The same issue when I was planting caladium bulbs. I am in constant competition with the basement as it is the only place for me to get things done during the winter including propagating caladium bulbs and roses. Consequently my lighting units will have to be kept within a 3 x 5 foot lighting setup, which limits me to 40 watt tubes six across.
When I mention a lamplight greenhouse, people expect a greenhouse on the order of the type used by nurseries. They hardly think a board of lights that practically blind a person as conducive to growing anything.
Every gardener has heard the term "water deeply". It’s better to water deeply once a week than to water shallowly more often. What does it mean to water deeply and how can you tell if you’ve accomplished it? Here’s a simple test.
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