Estimating construction time is one of the most difficult tasks a contractor faces. It can take many years of experience and completed projects to say with confidence how long a given task should take to complete. Even then, factors outside of a landscape contractor’s control – the weather, materials suppliers and subcontractors, for example – …
Continue reading “How Long Does the Average Landscape Project Take?”
Read MoreEncouraged by a never ending stream of television shows that feature home renovation, landscape makeovers and other DIY projects, more and more homeowners are tackling backyard projects that, years ago, they likely would have hired a contractor to complete. Successful DIY projects will leave you with a sense of accomplishment, more money in your pocket …
Continue reading “The Cost Savings of Do-It-Yourself Compared to Contractor Prices”
Read MoreStarting vegetable or ornamental plants indoors from seed is a great way to neutralize the last of the winter blues. It also provides a greater selection of vegetable or flower varieties than what is available at the local nursery. After germination, the next step is to prepare your seedlings for the outdoors. When to Transplant …
Continue reading “When & How to Transplant Seedlings”
Read MoreGerminating your own garden seeds instead of purchasing seedlings is fun and saves you money to boot. However, seeds are delicate and may require coddling during germination and when transplanting them to their final location. There are two popular home gardener methods for germinating seeds: A germination bed made from moistened paper towel or filter …
Continue reading “Germinating Seeds in Soil versus Paper Towel”
Read MoreBefore winter ends, get a jump on your next garden by starting seeds or cuttings indoors. Creating an indoor planting station that provides the right amount of light, temperature and humidity ensures your garden gets off to a healthy start. Rack and Bench Photo credit to Monik Markus under cc2.0 A table about six feet …
Continue reading “How to Set Up an Indoor Planting Station”
Read MoreRenewable, High Energy Fuel Firewood as a heat source is superior to fossil fuels in that it is a renewable energy source. The energy for trees to grow comes directly from the sun. After it is cut, more can be grown on the same land. Well-seasoned firewood, especially hardwood species, has high energy content that …
Continue reading “What Kind of Wood is Best for Fireplaces or Stoves?”
Read MoreWell-seasoned firewood burned in a high-efficiency stove is a less expensive source of heat than fossil fuels. The best way to receive the most bang for your firewood buck and avoid fire hazards is to buy firewood that is completely seasoned. How to Tell If Firewood Is Seasoned Seasoned firewood has less than 30 percent …
Continue reading “How to Choose High Quality Seasoned Firewood”
Read MoreHere is a common scenario for homeowner: knowing that a pleasant outdoor place is naturally relaxing and restorative, you have decided to add a picnic table, outdoor grill and a couple of lounge chairs to your backyard. Currently, there is no place to put them. Is it better to build a patio or a deck? …
Continue reading “What’s Better – a Patio or Deck?”
Read MoreAny landscape construction project can be a significant investment. Though you are increasing the enjoyment you receive from your landscape while increasing the value of your home, you also want to be sure you are getting your money’s worth. In particular, you may wonder how long a particular feature or item will last before it …
Continue reading “What is the Lifespan of Patio Stone and Pavers?”
Read MoreA patio is one of the best additions you can make to a home landscape. A well designed and built patio becomes an outdoor room: a place to sit and relax, eat dinner with family and friends or gather around a fire pit on a cool evening. Choosing the right materials is one of the …
Continue reading “Patio Material Options”
Read More
