You Can Turn Ponds Into Remarkable Garden Water Features

on November 2, 2011 · 5 Comments

Do you have a pond in your yard that leaves you feeling so-so whenever you look at it?  Do you find that it is prone to algae or bad smells or that it just isn’t as attractive as you would like it to be?  If so, you may wish to consider turning it into something more.  Ponds, no matter how big or small, can easily be turned into remarkable garden water features.  With a few simple additions, you can turn your old pond into a beautiful feature that will naturally draw the eye and offer a sense of peace and relaxation.

Turning ponds into garden water features can greatly increase the appeal of your space.  You will find that you can easily install a fountain in a large pond that will help keep water flowing and moving while also providing a spectacular spray.  These fountains can even be outfitted with colored lights to provide an incredible look at night when you want to relax by the fountain or simply provide a nice sight for passersby.  With large ponds, keeping water moving with a large fountain can also help prevent algae and odors while oxygenating the water for fish.

If you have a smaller pond, such as a koi pond, you can still create a remarkable feature in the space. These garden water features can be equipped with small fountains, decorative items that spray and oxygenate water, or even a lovely and calming waterfall.  You will find that simply keeping the water moving can be great for the fish and other inhabitants of your small pond while also keeping bacterial growth to a minimum.  Maintenance of your pond actually becomes much easier once you have installed features that aerate the water while also making them much more pleasurable to look at.

One of the best things about turning ponds into garden water features is that they provide your space with a sense of greater calm and relaxation.  When you want to be able to go into your backyard and read a book or just quietly pass the time without the sounds of moving cars or busy life, a relaxing feature is perfect.  No matter how large or small your pond or yard may be, you can easily turn it into a wonderful feature.  With so many items and fountains to choose from, it can be easy to achieve both the look and the atmosphere you need to create the yard you have always dreamed of.

Polly Godwin has been an expert on garden water features since 1998 and is the owner of KineticFountains.com, a company specializing in the highest quality outdoor water fountains. Visit KineticFountains.com today for expert advice and quality water fountains.

Written by pollygodwin

**Always follow the instructions in your repair manual when doing repair or maintenance work on Outdoor Power Equipment. Manuals can be found at the manufacturers website.** This Craftsman GT5000 Garden Tractor has a hydrostatic transmission with hand control. When the transmission is moved forward, and than put back into neutral it continues to creep forward. Fixing the problem involves adjusting the control arm by loosening a adjusting bolt which is located underneath the right fender and connected to the control arm. To get access to the adjustment bolt, remove the right rear tire. I was able to jack up the rear of the tractor and start it, so I could test the tractor while the rear of the tractor was off the ground. The adjustment requires very small movements until the right position is found. You will know when it is adjusted correctly when the tractor rear wheels do not turn with the transmission is put in neutral from forward and reverse position.
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Green Living: Conserve Water With A Xeriscape

on October 10, 2011 · 1 Comment

Xeriscape is a form of landscaping, which promotes the conservation of water. It was originally designed for areas plagued by drought; however, as more people are concerning themselves with “going green,” the concept of creating a landscape that actually conserves water is very attractive. Any area can be adapted to a xeriscape, not just those in drought regions.

To achieve a xeriscape, you should first analyze your area. You need to determine in which areas you wish to group plants. You want to group plants together which have similar water requirements; therefore, it is important to determine which areas might have such features as run-off or lots of sun. Also, you need to situate turf areas in such a way so they can be easily mown.

Xeriscapes also require soil improvement. The soil should promote both good drainage and water retention. Compost is the ideal choice, unless you plan on growing cacti and succulents. You can also amend your soil with organic matter.

Turf areas should be limited in your xeriscape. Grass will require more water than you will want to use. Decrease your grassy areas by increasing either the number or size of your flowerbeds and/or by incorporating hardscape into your design. For the turf areas you do include, choose drought-tolerate grasses, such as some of the fescues.

Another important element in xeriscape is your choice of plants. Choose plants that actually prefer less water, such as artemisias and sedums. Other drought-tolerant plants that are good choices are asters, columbine, coneflowers, coreopsis, iris, lamb’s ear, lavender, and yarrow.

Once you have your plants in the ground, mulch them well. Mulch helps the soil retain most of its moisture. It can also minimize the growth of weeds. Weeds in the garden not only mean more work for the gardener in terms of eradicating them, but they also steal water from the flowers that you have so carefully planted.

Watering should be done either through soaker or drip hoses. First, you conserve water by avoiding the evaporation that occurs with overhead watering. Second, drought-tolerant perennials tend to have deep roots. To encourage the development of these roots, long drinks — 20 to 30 minutes at a time — are best. In addition, these long drinks mean less-frequent waterings.

Xeriscapes tend to be relatively low-maintenance; however, that does not mean no maintenance. You will still need to do some regular weeding and replenish the mulch when necessary. Pruning, deadheading, and removing dead plant sections is important not only for the aesthetic qualities of your garden but also to prevent nutrients from being wasted on dead parts of plants. Do not scalp your grass when you mow either. Grass that is kept 3-4 inches high will look greener, and it will also hold moisture better.

Xeriscape is a perfect “green” project for your landscape. You can conserve one of our most valuable resources — water. You can also save money on your water bill, while you enjoy your beautiful drought-tolerant garden.

Written by Dena Bolton

Please join us April 24-26, 2009 at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, for Toronto’s largest show dedicated to all things green.
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Question by lizzie c: where can I find good tips for green living?
where can I find good tips for green living?

I’m doing all the big things but I want to make sure I do the little things too.

suggestions? websites?

Best answer:

Answer by Jtro
http://www.totse.com/en/politics/green_planet/life12.html

http://www.uppergreenside.org/you-can/live-greener/

Add your own answer in the comments!

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