The Best Yard On The Block
by jullian on April 2nd, 2010
filed under lawn care
Homeowners want the best looking yard on the block but often do not like lawn care. Beautiful lawns are not difficult to achieve, nor is appropriate landscaping. Good planning and effort are required but in the long run you will save time, lower the need for yard work and decrease water requirements. Soils with high clay content are inhospitable for plant growth because water runs off, away from plant roots. This impermeability can be overcome with a topically applied chemical that is watered in; it causes the clay to form small clumps so that water can pass through the subsoil rather than puddle up on top. It allows grass roots to grow deeper and store rainwater to stave off the effects of drought. A smaller grassy area means less lawn to mow; nice landscapes can do this. Large rocks add a bold touch, as do stone walkways and patios. Trees provide shade and offer an area for landscaping with shade loving perennials. Shrubbery around the walls of the house enhances soil stability for the foundation and adds an eye pleasing touch. Gardening with drought tolerant plants eliminates the need for a lot of care. Yucca plants provide an interesting focal point and look quite good in a round, gravel covered bed. Drought tolerant grasses, such as Fescue, grow deep roots to store water. The grass should be cut at 3 1/2 inches; this shades and cools the soil, it helps preclude germination of weed seeds, it preserves more water in the blades of grass and it looks better than a buzz cut. Drip irrigation systems are not expensive, deliver water with minimum evaporation and are an easy do-it-yourself project. Grass clippings need not be bagged when lawns are mowed as the clippings shade and cool the ground. Incorporate compost and cow manure into landscaping soil to make it more friable; cover it with mulch to keep it cool and moist. Perennials come up every year as do some self seeding annuals. Take the time to visualize the end result you want for your yard, make a plan to get there and get started. Beautiful lawns and stunning landscapes do not necessarily require hours of lawn care and topflight gardening skills.