Mulch may not be the most exciting element of your home’s landscaping, but there is no arguing it plays a very important role in any garden space. The role of mulch to conserve soil moisture, boost soil health and reduce weeds is well known, but it can also be used to enhance the overall aesthetic.
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How to Spread Topsoil Over an Existing Lawn
Rich topsoil is as beneficial for new grass as it is for old. Few people realize they can significantly boost the health of their lawn by carefully adding new topsoil. If you simply pile the soil on, you can kill the grass. However, if you follow these instructions to add topsoil to your existing lawn
Read MoreHow to Clean Your Artificial Grass and Prepare It for Spring
As the snow melts, it can leave mud and debris behind on your artificial grass, and leave it feeling a little smushed. Before you start entertaining in spring and summer, it’s wise to clean up the lawn. Plus, as you spend more time outside you may end up spilling on your synthetic grass. You need
Read MoreWood Burning Safety Tips
Burning wood for cooking and warmth is as old as humans are. Our ancestors burned wood as their primary home heating method. However, as we’ve moved away from wood as a fuel source, fewer and fewer people know how to burn wood safely. Even people who sell firewood may not understand that some types of wood just
Read MoreHow to Store and Keep Your Firewood Dry
If you own a woodburning fireplace or stove, you want to ensure you store enough dry firewood to keep that fire crackling all winter long. Here we offer tips on how to properly season, store and keep your firewood dry. How to Season Firewood Seasoning is the method used to reduce the water content found
Read MoreGermination Methods (Infographics)
Can’t decide on germinating your seeds in soil or a paper towel? Both methods are effective, but one is a bit more labour intensive. To help you out, take a look at this infographic to decide which germination method to use. To learn more about grass seed, soil, and other landscaping products that Van Beek’s
Read MoreAromas of Different Firewood
What’s the best smelling firewood? Firewood is innately fragrant, but did you know that every kind of wood has a distinctly different aroma? While the debate of the best smelling firewood is something that might never be solved, we have broken down the different types of firewood and what you can expect from each, so
Read MoreShould You Rake Leaves?
There is plenty of misinformation floating around on the subject of lawn maintenance, and much confusion around the question, “Should I rake leaves?” We’d like to clear up some of the confusion and answer the question of whether or not you should rake your leaves. Should I Rake Leaves? If you’re like many people, you’re
Read MoreHow to Improve Soil Quality This Fall
For master landscapers, knowing how to improve soil quality is a top-tier skill. Treating your soil is the single most important thing you can do to improve your landscaping success and fall is the best season of the year to do it. Better soil allows your garden to thrive. Keep in mind that soil that
Read MoreFive Ways to Use Natural Stone for Landscaping
Natural stone is a beautiful addition to the landscape around your home. Sturdy and rugged, natural stone adds an exquisite, polished look to any backyard when correctly incorporated, and a natural stone patio can be the perfect accent to your overall aesthetic. There are multiple ways that landscaping stones can be infused throughout the design
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