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Saturday, March 8, 2014
Prairie Mimosa Bundle Flower Tick Trefoil
Desmanthus
Desmanthus brachylobus ( Illinois Bundleflower )
The roots fix nitrogen enriching the soil and the seeds are rich in protein, making this an excellent potential perennial grain plant.
Desmanthus canadensis ( Showy Tick-Trefoil )
A vigorous, erect perennial, reaching up to 7 ( reports of 9 ) feet in height, that is native to much of North America ( from Alberta to Nova Scotia; south to Oklahoma to Arkansas to Virginia ). It looks best planted in groups rather than as individuals.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 leaflets, up to 4 inches in length. The foliage is blue-green.
The pink to purple flowers are borne on branched inflorescences during mid to late summer.
They are followed by sticky seedpods which may stick to clothes or peoples pets.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on moist soil.
* video found on Youtube
Desmanthus illinoiensis ( Illinois Bundleflower or Prairie-Mimosa )
A woody-based, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 8 x 3 ( rarely over 5 ) feet in height, that is native to central North America ( from North Dakota to Wisconsin to Ohio; south to New Mexico to Alabama ). It is also more recently also spread into the wild in parts of the eastern U.S. It is often late to appear during spring, often emerging during mid May in the Midwest.
The finely-textured, bipinnate leaves resemble that of Albizzia julibrissin ( Mimosa Silk Tree. Each pinnae, up to 4 inches in length, is made of many narrow leaflets. The foliage is luxuriant bright green.
The white puffball flowers are borne during mid-summer.
They are followed by twisted seedpods that curve around each other forming bunched clusters.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun or partial shade ( prefers sun ) on just about any fertile, well drained soil whether clay or sand, moist or dry. Cut stems to near ground level during the winter.
Propagation is from the seed which ripens during early October. It should be soaked in water overnight then sown at room temperature.
Pharmacology: external link ( http://www.erowid.org/library/books_online/ayahuasca_apa/aya_sec3_part2_desmanthus.shtml )
* photos of unknown internet source


* video found on Youtube
Desmanthus leptolobus ( Prairie Bundleflower )
A low spreading perennial, that is native to the south central U.S. ( Nebraska to central Texas ) where it is locally common on well drained prairies as well as disturbed areas. It is very vigorous and may be difficult to eradicate once established.
Read More..
Desmanthus brachylobus ( Illinois Bundleflower )
The roots fix nitrogen enriching the soil and the seeds are rich in protein, making this an excellent potential perennial grain plant.
Desmanthus canadensis ( Showy Tick-Trefoil )
A vigorous, erect perennial, reaching up to 7 ( reports of 9 ) feet in height, that is native to much of North America ( from Alberta to Nova Scotia; south to Oklahoma to Arkansas to Virginia ). It looks best planted in groups rather than as individuals.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 leaflets, up to 4 inches in length. The foliage is blue-green.
The pink to purple flowers are borne on branched inflorescences during mid to late summer.
They are followed by sticky seedpods which may stick to clothes or peoples pets.
Hardy zones 3 to 7 in full sun on moist soil.
* video found on Youtube
Desmanthus illinoiensis ( Illinois Bundleflower or Prairie-Mimosa )
A woody-based, shrubby perennial, reaching up to 8 x 3 ( rarely over 5 ) feet in height, that is native to central North America ( from North Dakota to Wisconsin to Ohio; south to New Mexico to Alabama ). It is also more recently also spread into the wild in parts of the eastern U.S. It is often late to appear during spring, often emerging during mid May in the Midwest.
The finely-textured, bipinnate leaves resemble that of Albizzia julibrissin ( Mimosa Silk Tree. Each pinnae, up to 4 inches in length, is made of many narrow leaflets. The foliage is luxuriant bright green.
The white puffball flowers are borne during mid-summer.
They are followed by twisted seedpods that curve around each other forming bunched clusters.
Hardy zones 5 to 8 in full sun or partial shade ( prefers sun ) on just about any fertile, well drained soil whether clay or sand, moist or dry. Cut stems to near ground level during the winter.
Propagation is from the seed which ripens during early October. It should be soaked in water overnight then sown at room temperature.
Pharmacology: external link ( http://www.erowid.org/library/books_online/ayahuasca_apa/aya_sec3_part2_desmanthus.shtml )
* photos of unknown internet source


* video found on Youtube
Desmanthus leptolobus ( Prairie Bundleflower )
A low spreading perennial, that is native to the south central U.S. ( Nebraska to central Texas ) where it is locally common on well drained prairies as well as disturbed areas. It is very vigorous and may be difficult to eradicate once established.
Friday, March 7, 2014
Comparison of a Conventional Fire Ring vs Warming Trends Crossfire Burner
In this informational video, we show you first hand, the difference between a conventional fire ring and Warming Trends Crossfire Burning System. You can clearly see the difference in longevity and quality when putting them side by side. The crossfire burner is superior.
For more information, please contact us online or call today. 1-877-556-5255.
Best Long Blooming Perennials What are your favorites
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Top Left to Right: Gaillardia Goblin, Liriope Variegata, Heuchera Palace Purple/Bottom Left to Right:Coreopsis Zagreb, Salvia Maynight, AstilbeSprite |






It is almost impossible to narrow down the best of the best perennials for your garden and there are thousands to choose from but I am hoping that this article will give you a brief idea of the possibilities that are available. The perennials mentioned in this article are my favorites based on experience. They have proven to be winners over the years with excellent foliage, repeat colorful blooms and all around summer interest in the landscape.
~ Do you have a favorite perennial? Why do you love it and what zone/area are you in? Lets get a Best Perennials list going! ~ Or cast a vote on one of the above!
Thank you for visiting and Happy Gardening!
Author: Lee@A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2011. All Rights Reserved

The Different Landscaping Designs To Make Your Home Attractive!

There is no better place than a nice home with attractive Landscaping Designs in all corners of the surrounding areas. All people value beauty and we appreciate all works of art, either nature or manmade. Some home owners develop their places in order to attract potential buyers, since a landscape is an additional value of the house itself. On the other hand, some home owners made it their hobby and a form of leisure time to plant flowers and maintain their lawns.
There are a million and one ways to develop an area, since each one of us have different preferences when it comes to Landscaping Designs. But diverse as they may seem, all landscapes must conform to a few things. For one, a good landscape has a center point which is the highlight of the whole landscape design. This focal point is special among all other landscape elements and it should draw the visitors attention. It could range from a small and simple garden bench to a huge and intricate statue. The basic rule for this is "small objects for small landscape and big objects for big landscape". And even if it should stand among all others, it still has to conform to the whole Landscaping design whether to the form, size or color.
The shapes to be used in the whole landscape are also crucial to Landscaping Designs. Too much use of a shape and too many kinds of shapes are not good because it will only make your design chaotic or disorganized. Another thing is the color, which is primarily either warm color or cool colors. Warm colors like red and yellow promote a warm feeling such as excitement. Meanwhile, cool colors like purple and blue will encourage relaxing feelings. Still other important things about Landscaping Designs are the plants to be used. You must know the full size of the plants, their life span, and how fast they will grow. And in order to add life to your landscape, choose plants that will attract butterflies and birds. Aside from that, movement is also important to be integrated in your design. You can do this by adding forms of life such as fishes in a pond, and plants that sway with the blow of the wind.
There are still other Landscaping Designs that you should learn so that you will gain ideas in Landscaping your place. If you want, you can let professional landscapers to do the Landscaping services that you need.
If you are looking for a satisfactory Landscaping services, Landscapers Cardiff is what you are looking for! They offer services in a high quality and at an affordable price. Have you place improved with their expertise and complete tools.
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Thursday, March 6, 2014
Garden Design Software Benefits and Features
If you think that the Indian stock market is not meant for small players, you are wrong. As per a survey, the investors section not only include big corporates and wealthy individuals who invest in bulk but also small time investors encompassing homemakers, students, small time businessmen, and the list goes on. No matter whether you are Investing big or small, what matters is the success aspect. If you play safe, your investment on Indian stocks will certainly yield you good returns; the vice versa can happen too. Here are a few stock market Tips following which you can get some good returns from Indian stocks:
Add flowers, trees, shrubs and
When using Garden Design Software is easy to add plants to your landscape. You see, they seem different plants when they are brought together, see how much space you need in your Garden, and mindful of the amount of sunlight they receive. If a plant is not well mixed with the Design of the Garden, just replace it with another plant. Making changes is easy when you are done in the office andin the soil.
Place litter, grass and dirt
Design a bed for your Garden mulch or dirt. We recommend using mulch for Garden Designs, where appropriate, such as fertilizer can be very attractive, the right attitude. Choosing the right type of mulch or dirt in your area, and ensure that the requirements of the soil of the plants is part of it.
Design your lawn by creating a large grassy area. Select the type of grass that compliments your home and is easy to maintain. AlternativeUse artificial grass for low maintenance requirements and save on water bill. Garden Design Software makes it easy to see what color the grass for your landscape Design.
Designing bridges and terraces
Both the existing platforms and terraces add to the digital landscape Design, or need, with the addition of new facilities, the task is to build simple Garden Design Software. Creating Designs deck wood grain with your favorite, balustrades, railings, post caps, and more. Design with courtyardsCement, plaster, stone or materials produced.
Create ponds and water Gardens
Many people are ponds to create a relaxing and peaceful as well as a landscape. Ponds can make your landscape in all shapes and sizes, and even populated with Koi fish for a touch of hilarity. Add special pond waterfall or fountain to your pond Design for enhanced visual and auditory. If you choose to keep Garden-water fish, taking care to prepare and predatorsaccordingly.
Change of virtual land and add retaining walls
If the landscape is sitting on a rough terrain? If so, to accommodate user-friendly tools for the slopes, hills and valleys. Create retaining walls in conjunction with a penchant for Garden Design terrace: very elegant and offers an impressive sight. Other functions can be controlled grounds include Gardens, raised ponds, ditches and raised.
Add roads and vehicles
The perspective is very important when planning a landscape Design, soIt s a good idea to include the area immediately around the residence in the project. It is not necessary for the Design properties neighbors, but also the street and sidewalk outside the residence, a long way to go give a realistic idea of how your Garden Design is in reality. This is especially true if you or your clients life into a dead end.
Design and delivery
If the project includes a swimming pool or spa, it is important to include the use ofYour Garden Design Software. Alternatively, new pools and spas are Designed with the rest of the landscape. The pools have a great need for space and affect much more than a landscape Design, visual impact, as usual, gave credit. A good pool Design is not only a stretch of choppy water, but also neighboring plants and waterfalls, the swimming pool to complement the rest of the landscape.
Conclusion
Garden Design Software can helpIn many ways, if you only make small changes to an existing landscape or completely Design a new residence. Because of changes in a digital 3D Design, you may stumble landscaping ideas have never considered otherwise.
Justin invites you to download a free trial version of the Software landscape Design Download the trial version. For more information about the Software landscape, see Idea Spectrum.
Read More..
Add flowers, trees, shrubs and
When using Garden Design Software is easy to add plants to your landscape. You see, they seem different plants when they are brought together, see how much space you need in your Garden, and mindful of the amount of sunlight they receive. If a plant is not well mixed with the Design of the Garden, just replace it with another plant. Making changes is easy when you are done in the office andin the soil.
Place litter, grass and dirt
Design a bed for your Garden mulch or dirt. We recommend using mulch for Garden Designs, where appropriate, such as fertilizer can be very attractive, the right attitude. Choosing the right type of mulch or dirt in your area, and ensure that the requirements of the soil of the plants is part of it.
Design your lawn by creating a large grassy area. Select the type of grass that compliments your home and is easy to maintain. AlternativeUse artificial grass for low maintenance requirements and save on water bill. Garden Design Software makes it easy to see what color the grass for your landscape Design.
Designing bridges and terraces
Both the existing platforms and terraces add to the digital landscape Design, or need, with the addition of new facilities, the task is to build simple Garden Design Software. Creating Designs deck wood grain with your favorite, balustrades, railings, post caps, and more. Design with courtyardsCement, plaster, stone or materials produced.
Create ponds and water Gardens
Many people are ponds to create a relaxing and peaceful as well as a landscape. Ponds can make your landscape in all shapes and sizes, and even populated with Koi fish for a touch of hilarity. Add special pond waterfall or fountain to your pond Design for enhanced visual and auditory. If you choose to keep Garden-water fish, taking care to prepare and predatorsaccordingly.
Change of virtual land and add retaining walls
If the landscape is sitting on a rough terrain? If so, to accommodate user-friendly tools for the slopes, hills and valleys. Create retaining walls in conjunction with a penchant for Garden Design terrace: very elegant and offers an impressive sight. Other functions can be controlled grounds include Gardens, raised ponds, ditches and raised.
Add roads and vehicles
The perspective is very important when planning a landscape Design, soIt s a good idea to include the area immediately around the residence in the project. It is not necessary for the Design properties neighbors, but also the street and sidewalk outside the residence, a long way to go give a realistic idea of how your Garden Design is in reality. This is especially true if you or your clients life into a dead end.
Design and delivery
If the project includes a swimming pool or spa, it is important to include the use ofYour Garden Design Software. Alternatively, new pools and spas are Designed with the rest of the landscape. The pools have a great need for space and affect much more than a landscape Design, visual impact, as usual, gave credit. A good pool Design is not only a stretch of choppy water, but also neighboring plants and waterfalls, the swimming pool to complement the rest of the landscape.
Conclusion
Garden Design Software can helpIn many ways, if you only make small changes to an existing landscape or completely Design a new residence. Because of changes in a digital 3D Design, you may stumble landscaping ideas have never considered otherwise.
Justin invites you to download a free trial version of the Software landscape Design Download the trial version. For more information about the Software landscape, see Idea Spectrum.
Best Front Yard Landscaping Design Ideas

Front yard landscaping requires extra care in planning and design implementation. Every front yard needs to look special and unique. Your front yard landscape will serve as your basis for the other designs around your residential area.
Here are the best front yard landscaping ideas that you need to practice for both creativity and productivity edges.
• Survey the place.
Examine your front lawn very carefully. Take note of the location of your house, the front lawn or even the neighborhood. Plan and visualize the landscaping designs you want for that spot. You can have two to three design choices for the elimination round.
• Select your ideal design to balance your preferences.
You may have more than one design in mind yet you have to focus on a single solid layout that will give you all the benefits and will never put your money to waste. It should make your place even more appealing for true beauty. Select the plants that you want to use in your landscape project. Make sure that these plants are easy to grow and maintain. These should not create conflicts with the existing weather conditions in your place.
• Get ready with your tools and materials.
You will use garden tools here such as trowel, rake, shovel, bolo, cutters, knife and wheelbarrow. You will also need to buy or add more garden plants to meet your desired design. Additional materials are rocks or boulders, fountain or water system, lighting and other attractive accessories that creative people might prefer.
• Work on the actual plan.
Once you are done gathering all things you need, you can now start with your major home improvement project. If you have the natural passion for art, you can take your first landscaping project to various levels of exciting adventure. If you are such a perfectionist, then you may hire a professional designer to help you along with it.
• Check for regular progress and updates.
Hiring an expert does not mean you can go out for the holidays as he completes the landscape project in your home. Supervise the work regularly. Make sure that they are doing the right thing based on agreed layout and design ideals.
• Do not forget the value of finishing touches.
Whether you work alone or with an expert, make sure to take the finishing touches very seriously. Painting your front wall and sides will help maximize and even highlight the area to create an astounding front yard impact.
• Add some fabulous lighting or even a captivating fountain.
Low-voltage lights and fountain or any preferred water systems are needed within your front yard landscape design to enhance its charm and sheer elegance even more. This fabulous effect is set up for both day and night time appealing tastes.
Landscaping may be expensive to some people yet the results are very rewarding. It even helps you get closer to nature. You can opt to do these things by yourself or from the help of experts. Landscaping does not always have to be expensive to attract the human eye. There are so many alternatives for low cost landscaping.
Maryrose Malinao loves sharing new and current trends in nature and the online world. For greater awareness and home improvement success, check out the front yard landscape design ideas.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Maryrose_Malinao
Preserve backyards ideas landscape An easy task to Commence
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backyards ideas landscape |
Anybody that possesses a property would like to ensure it is because appealing as you can. The primary issues that people whenever they arrived at go to could be the backyard and then any landscaping design function that is completed to that. Since the majority yards give you a degree regarding personal privacy, home owners usually decide to go further in terms of backyards ideas landscape the bradenton area from the house. Backyard landscaping ideas are an easy way to enhance your premises, to start with youre taking upon this type of task, it is essential that you imagine points by means of along with perform suitable preparing.
Among the first stuff you should look into is if you happen to be as much as signing up for a sizable gardening task on your own. You might talk to an expert gardener. It will offer you a solid idea of the expenses included, and itll additionally provide you with a perception of just how much work a specialist perceives is going to be necessary. Avoid being reluctant to check out how much labour included. It could come out which you had been undervaluing simply how much function assembling your project truly entails.
Whether or not you choose to perform function on your own, as well as engage a specialist, there are a few suggestions to help you to create a beautiful landscaping using the smallest amount involving energy as well as cost. Some of these suggestions are usually right here.
-When youre picking vegetation on your garden, make sure that you happen to be purchasing plant life which are sturdy inside your heat zoom. The majority of respected retailers inside crops along with shrubberies is going to be pleased to help you should you request assistance throughout selecting crops that is to be equipped to handle the weather in your town.
-Keep points intriguing on your lawn with the help of many different plant life who have results in of varieties and also designs. When youre acquiring plants, think about using a single favourite variety during the entire backyard to supply a routine to your total landscaping design and style.
-If youre evergreen seed fan, remember that but they are generally gorgeous if theyre putting out flowers, numerous perennials usually do not bloom for days. You might want to product using once-a-year bouquets because breaks can be found in your current landscaping layout through the time.
-Although incorporating unique vegetation on your garden might appear to be a fascinating concept, they could be a substantial upkeep undertaking their individual if you dont select meticulously. Think about sticking with simpler vegetation since you are getting started.
Theyre a few elementary ideas that will help to begin with creating the yard panorama. In order to enter into harder assignments including constructing wall space, as well as adding paths, you could expect your current charges to improve drastically. Time necessary to total your undertaking may also grow to be a greater portion of a problem. Take into account discovering modest garden landscaping suggestions to begin with, then create these since they are concluded. Youve got the total satisfaction regarding viewing development getting created, and youll be a lot less planning to nip away from greater than youll be able to gnaw in anyone moment.
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simple landscape design ideas |
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landscape ideas small backyards |
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pictures backyards landscape ideas |
Golden Chain Tree
Laburnum
A genus of only 2 species of trees, both native to Europe, that are part of the larger Legume family. Laburnums are poisinous, they DO NOT contain Entheogens and in fact may be fatal poisonous if consumed...do not eat any part of this plant.
That being said...a well grown Laburnum really is a beautiful landscape tree.
They prefer full sun to partial shade on consistently moist, well drained soil. Laburnums also prefer cool summers and especially do not like hot humid nights found in the south and southeastern U.S.. They also respond well to generous potassium fertilizer. Young trees should be pruned to a single leader and feathered ( side shoots shorten and spaced ) to create a strong scaffold. Lower branches should be gradually limbed up and suckers should be removed. Wounds do not heal well so it is best to do any corrective pruning while trees are young. Some trees seed heavily drawing energy away from growth. Deadheading after flowering, is recommended if improved vigor is desired. Young trees should be staked so they dont rock to death.
Laburnums do not enjoy root disturbance so it is best of plant while young. It is also important to purchase trees that are not rootbound since potbound trees are prone to girdling.
Trees are reproduced from seed which germinates quickly if soaked for a day in warm water before sowing.
* photos of unknown internet source



Laburnum alpinum ( Scotch Laburnum )
A small broadly spreading tree native to central and southern Europe.
Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 3 feet; 20 years - 23 x 20 feet; largest on record - 53 x 33 feet with a trunk diameter of 4.2 feet; longest lived - 176 years.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 pointed, elliptical leaflets, up to 4 x 1 inches. The foliage is smooth glossy deep green above, smooth light green beneath.
In autumn the foliage turns golden-yellow to bronze.
The pea-like bright golden-yellow flowers, up to 0.65 inches, are borne in drooping racemes, up to 18 inches in length, during early summer.
They are followed by a smooth shiny brown flattened pods, up to 3 inches in length. The seedpods contain poisonous brown seeds.
The dark gray bark is smooth on young trees, shallowly fissured on older trees.
Hardy zones
Hardy zone 3 to 7
Laburnum vulgare ( Common Laburnum )
Also called Laburnum anagyroides. A small broadly spreading tree Europe.
Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 4 feet; 20 years - 36 x 20 feet; largest on record - 56 x 36 feet with a trunk diameter of 5.1 feet; longest lived - 350 years.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 blunt to round-tipped, oval leaflets, up to 4 x 1.5 inches. The foliage is smooth dull to glossy deep green above, smooth light green beneath.
In autumn the foliage turns golden-yellow to bronze.
The pea-like bright golden-yellow flowers, up to 1 inch, are borne in drooping racemes, up to 10 inches in length, during late spring.
They are followed by a smooth brown pod, up to 3 inches in length. The seedpods contain poisonous black seeds. The pods often persist through the winter.
The dark gray bark is smooth on young trees, shallowly fissured on older trees.
Hardy zones
Hardy zone 3 to 9. Unlike Laburnum alpinum, this one has actually been known to grow in south Florida.
* photos taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europes premier plant nursery


Autumnale
Blooms again in fall.
Pendulum
Slender branches are drooping in habit.
Laburnum x watereri ( Waterer Laburnum )
The hybrid between Laburnum alpinum & L. vulgare; forming a small broadly spreading tree. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 3 feet; 5 years - 13 x 5 feet; 20 years - 23 x 17 feet; largest on record - 36 x 36 feet. Rare in the U.S.; it is known to grow in Washington, D.C. at the Smithsonian Arts & Industries Building.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 pointed, elliptical leaflets, up to 3 x 1 inches. The foliage is smooth glossy deep green above, hairy then later turning light green beneath. In autumn the foliage turns golden-yellow to bronze.
The pea-like bright golden-yellow flowers, up to 1 inch, are borne in dense hanging racemes, up to 12 inches in length, during late spring.
They are followed by a smooth brown pod, up to 3 inches in length. The seedpods contain poisonous brown seeds.
The bark is olive and smooth on young trees, dark gray and shallowly fissured on older trees.
Hardy zones 3 to 8
* photos taken on May 18 2013 in Howard Co., MD




Vossii
Exceptional long flower racemes, up to 24 inches in length. Flowering is also more profuse. The seeds are sparse making for another plus.
* photo taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europes premier plant nursery

Read More..
A genus of only 2 species of trees, both native to Europe, that are part of the larger Legume family. Laburnums are poisinous, they DO NOT contain Entheogens and in fact may be fatal poisonous if consumed...do not eat any part of this plant.
That being said...a well grown Laburnum really is a beautiful landscape tree.
They prefer full sun to partial shade on consistently moist, well drained soil. Laburnums also prefer cool summers and especially do not like hot humid nights found in the south and southeastern U.S.. They also respond well to generous potassium fertilizer. Young trees should be pruned to a single leader and feathered ( side shoots shorten and spaced ) to create a strong scaffold. Lower branches should be gradually limbed up and suckers should be removed. Wounds do not heal well so it is best to do any corrective pruning while trees are young. Some trees seed heavily drawing energy away from growth. Deadheading after flowering, is recommended if improved vigor is desired. Young trees should be staked so they dont rock to death.
Laburnums do not enjoy root disturbance so it is best of plant while young. It is also important to purchase trees that are not rootbound since potbound trees are prone to girdling.
Trees are reproduced from seed which germinates quickly if soaked for a day in warm water before sowing.
* photos of unknown internet source



Laburnum alpinum ( Scotch Laburnum )
A small broadly spreading tree native to central and southern Europe.
Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 3 feet; 20 years - 23 x 20 feet; largest on record - 53 x 33 feet with a trunk diameter of 4.2 feet; longest lived - 176 years.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 pointed, elliptical leaflets, up to 4 x 1 inches. The foliage is smooth glossy deep green above, smooth light green beneath.
In autumn the foliage turns golden-yellow to bronze.
The pea-like bright golden-yellow flowers, up to 0.65 inches, are borne in drooping racemes, up to 18 inches in length, during early summer.
They are followed by a smooth shiny brown flattened pods, up to 3 inches in length. The seedpods contain poisonous brown seeds.
The dark gray bark is smooth on young trees, shallowly fissured on older trees.
Hardy zones
Hardy zone 3 to 7
Laburnum vulgare ( Common Laburnum )
Also called Laburnum anagyroides. A small broadly spreading tree Europe.
Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 4 feet; 20 years - 36 x 20 feet; largest on record - 56 x 36 feet with a trunk diameter of 5.1 feet; longest lived - 350 years.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 blunt to round-tipped, oval leaflets, up to 4 x 1.5 inches. The foliage is smooth dull to glossy deep green above, smooth light green beneath.
In autumn the foliage turns golden-yellow to bronze.
The pea-like bright golden-yellow flowers, up to 1 inch, are borne in drooping racemes, up to 10 inches in length, during late spring.
They are followed by a smooth brown pod, up to 3 inches in length. The seedpods contain poisonous black seeds. The pods often persist through the winter.
The dark gray bark is smooth on young trees, shallowly fissured on older trees.
Hardy zones
Hardy zone 3 to 9. Unlike Laburnum alpinum, this one has actually been known to grow in south Florida.
* photos taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europes premier plant nursery


Autumnale
Blooms again in fall.
Pendulum
Slender branches are drooping in habit.
Laburnum x watereri ( Waterer Laburnum )
The hybrid between Laburnum alpinum & L. vulgare; forming a small broadly spreading tree. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 3 feet; 5 years - 13 x 5 feet; 20 years - 23 x 17 feet; largest on record - 36 x 36 feet. Rare in the U.S.; it is known to grow in Washington, D.C. at the Smithsonian Arts & Industries Building.
The trifoliate leaves are composed of 3 pointed, elliptical leaflets, up to 3 x 1 inches. The foliage is smooth glossy deep green above, hairy then later turning light green beneath. In autumn the foliage turns golden-yellow to bronze.
The pea-like bright golden-yellow flowers, up to 1 inch, are borne in dense hanging racemes, up to 12 inches in length, during late spring.
They are followed by a smooth brown pod, up to 3 inches in length. The seedpods contain poisonous brown seeds.
The bark is olive and smooth on young trees, dark gray and shallowly fissured on older trees.
Hardy zones 3 to 8
* photos taken on May 18 2013 in Howard Co., MD
Vossii
Exceptional long flower racemes, up to 24 inches in length. Flowering is also more profuse. The seeds are sparse making for another plus.
* photo taken by Milan Havlis, owner of central Europes premier plant nursery

Wednesday, March 5, 2014
Landscape Architects And Your Home
Landscape Architects and your home
Were in The New York Times!
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The duck blind in our border garden. |
Wouldn’t you know it: the one garden I designed that Im sheepish to show even to my friends is the one that gets featured in The New York Times. Ah well, Ill have to have a word with my PR department . . .
Today our garden is featured in The New York Times Home section. The story is about our garden: how we started it with little money (and even less design) while renovating a very dilapidated house (still in process); how it’s different than what we design in our landscape architecture firm; and how we live in it. My wife and I were fortunate to spend a Sunday in late September with The New York Times feature writer Michael Tortorello. Michael is funny, warm, and wickedly smart in a casual kind of way. His articles are one of the reasons the Times Home section is such a compelling read. His range is vast, from the ecology of vacant lots, to what happens when trees go dormant, to great human stories such as this recent one of James Golden. His focus on the way real people live and work with real spaces is always refreshing.
The wonderful images were taken by DC based photographer Darren Higgins. Darren spent most of a day with us, hanging off our roof, clinging to a ladder in the middle of the street—all while narrowly dodging traffic. Considering the garden is surrounded on three sides by ugly roads and one side by our ugly house, Darren did a lovely job telling a story with a not so promising site.
While I love to read the real story of other peoples gardens, I tried my best to distract Michael from our garden. Lots of lofty talk on the meaning of gardens . . . but it was all to no avail. Anyway, please check out Michaels excellent piece on our garden in todays New York Times.
Our deepest thanks to Michael, Darren, and the editors of The New York Times. It was a pleasure to entertain and work with this amazing bunch of professionals.
One minor post-publication quibble: The print edition of the Times refers to me in two bylines as a "horticulturist." I am, in fact, a licensed landscape architect. I have many friends and colleagues who are indeed professional horticulturists. I dont do what they do, and they dont do what I do. Though both professions deal with plants to a degree, they are two entirely different professions.
One minor post-publication quibble: The print edition of the Times refers to me in two bylines as a "horticulturist." I am, in fact, a licensed landscape architect. I have many friends and colleagues who are indeed professional horticulturists. I dont do what they do, and they dont do what I do. Though both professions deal with plants to a degree, they are two entirely different professions.
Knock Out Rose A New Favorite in the Garden
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Knock Out Rose Double Pink |
Knock Out Roses grow to 3-4 feet high by wide and should be grown in full sun in a well-drained soil. Knock Out Rose do not require any special care but can be pruned in early spring after the threat of frost is gone to keep them full. They do not require deadheading but if desired you can remove spent blooms to encourage more blooms. They are the most disease resistant roses on the market and are not susceptible to black-spot fungal disease. They are virtually "care-free".
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Knock Out Rose Double Red |
After 20 years in the making the first introduction of Knock Out Rose was the Red Knock Out in 2000. After that in 2004, Blushing (light pink) and Pink (deep pink) were introduced. In 2005 Double Red Knock Out came about and then in 2007, Rainbow Knock Out (pink/yellow center) and Sunny Knock Out (yellow) were brought into the market. I introduced three double pink Knock-Outs into my gardens in Mid-May and just added three Double Reds. They are in full bloom and are the first shrub I go to when walking out into the garden. Each day there are more and more blooms to look forward to. I am already looking for a place to put the yellow variety. These are truly a winner and after all these years there are finally roses in this designers garden.
Happy Gardening!
Author: Lee@ A Guide To Northeastern Gardening Copyright 2011

Tuesday, March 4, 2014
Ponds Waterfalls Landscaping Designs Deck And Patio Company Long Island NY
Ponds waterfalls landscaping designs Deck and Patio Company, Long Island, NY
Groundbreakers The New Traditionalists


Jacques Wirtz started his practice in 1950 designing and maintaining small gardens. Wirtz studied horticulture and landscape architecture, but it was his years in the field maintaining local gardens that gave him his virtuoso skill as a craftsman. At 79, Wirtz has the characteristic humility and reticence of a master craftsman. Son Peter Wirtz explains, My father is such a natural talent that he doesnt always articulate what makes him do things. British garden writer and biographer Patrick Taylor adds: Hes not a good quote person. Hes more interested in the eternal verities.
The most iconic aspect of the Wirtz style is his unconventional and sculptural use of clipped hedges. When Wirtz moved into his current house, he inherited a row of overgrown boxwoods that lined a walk. Too spindly to be trimmed into a rectilinear form, Wirtz followed the natural contours of the branching, creating a pillowy, cloud-like effect. It is this attention to natural form that gives Wirtz’s work its creative edge.
We love structure,” said Peter Wirtz, “we love to feel firmness. Perhaps it’s the firmness of their work that challenges me as a designer and a gardener. Each time I look at their work, I have the same thought: my garden efforts are too small and too timid. But I’m invigorated by the clarity of these gardens. There is no ambiguity about control, no illusions of naturalism. Every effort by the designer is not intended to blur their interventions—like Olmsted in Central Park or Capability Brown at Blenheim—but to declare them. It adds an authenticity to their designs.

Last photo by Wirtz International. Some of the information from this article was sourced from The New York Times article "The Constant Gardener" by Pilar Viladas
The Most Important Landscape Book Since McHargs Design with Nature

I rarely write book reviews, but I am making an exception for a remarkable new book.
Principles of Ecological Landscape Design, written by Travis Beck and published by Island Press, is the first attempt to write a comprehensive text addressing how ecology can and should inform the design of landscapes and gardens. This may be the most important landscape book since Ian McHarg’s groundbreaking work, Design with Nature, pioneered the concept of ecological planning.
Most ecologically-based designers rely on a handful of truisms to guide their designs: use natives; right plant, right place; consider biodiversity. But when it comes to actually selecting plants, one quickly realizes that eco-slogans provide few answers to complex questions. How many different species should we include, and in what proportions? Do you mass plants, or mix them? And how should different species be mixed? What happens when the plants start to compete with each other? How do you maintain a designed community to encourage the right outcomes? How do we measure success?
Travis Beck’s book delivers answers. The book’s scope is sprawling. Each chapter could itself be its on book. It covers biogeography and plant selection, assembling plant communities, competition and coexistence, designing ecosystems, materials cycling and soil ecology, plant-animal interactions, biodiversity and stability, disturbance and succession, landscape ecology, and global change. But this very broadness of scope is the book’s strength. Beck gives us a survey of the last fifty years of ecological research and boils it down in an accessible language for the designer.
This book could be the defining textbook for ecological planting. As more landscape architects and designers seek information about how to design sustainable landscapes, Beck’s book will be an invaluable resource. If you are a designer and are interested in getting beyond greenwashing, Beck’s book provides principles, strategies, and detailed instructions.
I will be including an interview with Travis in an upcoming post. Stay tuned!
Monday, March 3, 2014
Dock
Rumex
Rumex acetosa ( Garden Sorrel )
A fast growing, succulent perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 feet x 26 inches.
The leaves are used for flavoring soups, stews and salads.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Rhubarb Pie
Very attractive foliage plant with a combo of deep green, scarlet-red and creamy-yellow.
Rumex sanguineus var sanguineus (Red Veined Dock )
A vigorous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 40 inches x 3 feet ( in bloom ), forming a clump of foliage, up to 6 inches, that is boldly veined bright red.
It is native to Europe and southwest Asia.
The small flowers are borne on terminal panicles from mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on deep, moist, fertile soil.
* photo taken on May 8 2011 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 25 2011 @ Scott Arboretum, Swarthmore, PA

Read More..
Rumex acetosa ( Garden Sorrel )
A fast growing, succulent perennial, reaching a maximum size of 2 feet x 26 inches.
The leaves are used for flavoring soups, stews and salads.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in full sun to partial shade.
Rhubarb Pie
Very attractive foliage plant with a combo of deep green, scarlet-red and creamy-yellow.
Rumex sanguineus var sanguineus (Red Veined Dock )
A vigorous perennial, reaching a maximum size of 40 inches x 3 feet ( in bloom ), forming a clump of foliage, up to 6 inches, that is boldly veined bright red.
It is native to Europe and southwest Asia.
The small flowers are borne on terminal panicles from mid to late summer.
Hardy zones 4 to 8 in full sun on deep, moist, fertile soil.
* photo taken on May 8 2011 in Columbia, MD
* photo taken on Aug 25 2011 @ Scott Arboretum, Swarthmore, PA
Landscape Design with Custom Concrete Bowls
Landscape design is on the rise and modifying outdoor living rooms for your homes is a hot trend. One way to create ambiance, a centerpiece and gathering space for entertaining is by installing a custom fire pit with circular seating for guests. There are several options of fire pits you can install from hearths with ledges for kickin your feet up, to in ground fire pits, to custom concrete bowls. We here are a big fan of Concrete Creations out of Los Angeles for custom concrete fire bowls.
Concrete Creations provide numerous color, style and size options of fire bowls that would best suit your backyard space. Having these custom options available allows you to choose a fire bowl that is best suited for the color scheme, architectural design and size of your backyard living space. Fire bowls are becoming more and more popular as they are sleek, modern and built to last.
Concrete Creations fire bowls can be used with firewood, gas, propane, or gel. We always recommend natural gas or propane burning systems as they are easier to control in terms of flame size and overall safety and they are better for the environment as well.
Styles range from an Asian style wok, to conical shaped fire bowls, to a more traditional, yet modern and sleek looking custom simplicity bowl. There are bound to be at least a few different options that would best suit your home.
So when you are ready to install a custom fire pit or Concrete Creation fire bowl in your landscape design plans, contact us and well be happy to help you decide which option is best for your home. Call us today! 1-877-556-5255.
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