07/03/2009

You may be able to identify poison ivy ("leaflets 3, let it be" -- simple, right?), but that doesn't mean you should let it grow unchecked in your yard, thinking, "Oh, as long as I know where it is, I'll just avoid it". I recommend safe poison ivy removal to everyone, no matter how good an eye you may feel you possess for the itchy weed.

After all, even poison ivy experts can accidentally brush up against the stuff, in a moment when they've let their guard down. And we all know about the rash that can occur after contact with this green menace. But how does one practice safe poison ivy removal? Well, to find out, click the link below....

Read article: Poison Ivy Removal

07/02/2009

"Security": it's often a relative term, isn't it, whether we're talking about security gates or, for example, economic security? In a worse case scenario, what we thought was secure might, in fact, not be so secure at all.

In suggesting questions that homeowners might ask when planning the installation of security gates, Paul Corsetti drives this point home. Posing the question, theoretically, of whether a security gate could hold back a car, Paul goes on to comment, somewhat facetiously:

"That would have to be a very heavy security gate, and if you are thinking along those lines, you should have armed guards at your entrance!"

In this interview with Paul, we discuss such issues as options for gate openers and lighting. Click the link below to access the interview and learn more about security gates.

Read article:Security Gates

07/01/2009

Lehr "Eco" (not "Echo!") string trimmers are innovative, eco-friendly weedeaters that substitute a 16.4-oz. propane canister for gas as a fuel source. These weedeaters afford the same power and portability as do gas weedeaters, while offering an eco-friendly alternative at a comparable price. In fact, they're powerful enough for me to recommend them to pros -- and to homeowners who have challenging trimming needs. But if you're drawn to these eco-friendly string trimmers, you'll want to consult my review before buying: I discuss the solution of a problem that may save you some time -- and aggravation!

Read review: Lehr String Trimmers

06/29/2009

What landscaping tasks should you be performing in July? Well, that depends on where you live. That's the beauty of regional gardening calendars. Consult these July gardening tips to see what you can be doing to ensure that your yard continues to look its best, whether you live in northerly or southerly climes.

_{Photo ©2006 David Beaulieu (licensed to About.com)}

06/27/2009

What should you plant near house foundations? Well, you certainly shouldn't restrict yourself to the traditional evergreen shrubs, such as yews. Use plants that flower and create colorful foundation gardens. A twist on this idea is offered by the Today's Garden Ideas Web site: "You may prefer a monochromatic color palette and with a white house choose white azaleas, white roses, & a background of dark green evergreens to compliment the flower color." Read the full article on flowering foundation gardens for more ideas.

Related resources:

• Foundation Plantings
• Foundation Planting Pictures