Posts

Build a Classic Garden Setting

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Building a garden and cultivating a collection of plant life is one of the most gratifying feelings a person can experience. There are so many choices for what you can do with your garden space that it can be hard to settle on a certain style or theme. The simple, classical theme is one of the most beloved styles when it comes to garden design. The classic garden allows the visual and the atmosphere to speak for itself. To create a beautiful classical scene, opt for shrubs and flowers, a classical tiered fountain, and hand-crafted stone outdoor furniture.

Flowers and Shrubbery

The composition of a classic garden scene is actually fairly simple. The intricacies and details come from how the plants and flowers are arranged. When choosing plants for your classic garden, keep your list fairly short. All you will need is a collection of shrubs and selection of a few of your favorite flowers to add a bit of color to your space. The main design of your garden should be determined by where your shrubs are placed. You can even design them in a way that your garden has deliberate pathways. You can then accent your setup with the colorful flowers and vines.

Classical Tiered Fountain

When it comes to choosing a fountain for your classical garden, there is one main option that overshadows the rest. This option is the classical tiered fountain. A classical garden will seem nearly incomplete without the presence of a grand tiered fountain to finalize the look and feel of your space. Taking nods from ancient Rome and on, these amazing structures evoke an old-world feel while creating a scene that is welcoming and soothing. There are a wide range of sizes and styles to choose from, some complete with sculptures and figurines. There is sure to be a fountain that is perfect for your scene.

Stone Outdoor Furniture

Your garden is a place of peace and serenity. To better enjoy your time there, it is important to choose some outdoor furniture so that you can have a place to sit and absorb the beauty of your space. While they are countless styles and materials used to produce outdoor furniture, one of the best options for a classic garden setup is the use of stone furniture. The right stone benches, stools, and tables are perfect for complementing your scene. There are options made from granite, jade, marble, and more. The designs, ranging from smooth and basic to textured and intricate, are all great accents to a natural scene.

With all of the styles and designs that are always becoming available, sometimes the most desirable option is the simple, classic one. When it comes to designing a garden, the classic look is always a good choice. With the right plants, a beautiful fountain, and some classic stone furniture, you can have a classic scene in your own backyard.

 

Build a Natural-Looking Outdoor Setting

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , , , , /by

The weather has finally broken, and many people are beginning to take on those outdoor projects they had been fantasizing about all winter. When it comes to redesigning your outdoor space, there are endless possibilities to choose from, and a wide selection of accessories to help you create your vision. Sometimes these choices can be overwhelming. With all of the different types of fountains and water features, some people find it hard to settle on a single theme. One of the best themes you can choose is a scene that simply accentuates the beauty that exists in nature. With the right waterfall or pond, a collection to beautiful wildflowers and plants, and a couple of stone benches, you’ll be ready to create the perfect natural setting.

Waterfalls or Ponds

When it comes to choosing which type of fountain or water feature to use in your outdoor environment, a waterfall or pond is best for the person looking to evoke a natural feeling. What better way to accentuate the beauty of nature than recreating processes that occur naturally. There are a wide range of waterfall and pond kits to get you started. You can choose from many styles and sizes. If you are looking to make a major installation, contact your local professional. There are plenty of dedicated people out there who are willing to help you create your vision.

Wildflowers and Plants

One of the most enjoyable things about having outdoor space at your disposal is the possibility of growing your own plant life. Many people enjoy growing vegetables and herbs, while some people enjoy the simple gratification of growing a bed of flowers. When deciding on plants for your natural scene, remember to keep it simple, but diverse. Choose a collection of some of your favorite flowers and greenery, and plant them in a seemingly random design. To create that all-natural scene, some people even mix seeds and allow plants to grow where they may. The trick is to not be too precise. Mother Nature will help you along the way.

Stone Benches

To better enjoy the time spent in your newly built home oasis, it would be beneficial to have seating for you and your guests. While there are a wide range of outdoor furniture and seating options, not all would complement a more natural-looking setting. If you are looking for something that will accent your outdoor scene, opt for classic stone furniture. There are a wide range of benches, stools, and tables made from quality stone, such as granite, jade, marble and more.

When it comes to cultivating the perfect scene, don’t let the endless options send you into a fit of frustration. If you enjoy being outdoors for the simple fact that it’s the outdoors, decide to build a scene that accentuates those properties. With the right water feature, greenery, and stone furniture, your natural oasis will be complete in no time!

Create the Perfect Classic Garden

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

Building a garden and cultivating a collection of plant life is one of the most gratifying feelings a person can experience. There are so many choices for what you can do with your garden space that it can be hard to settle on a certain style or theme. The simple, classical theme is one of the most beloved styles when it comes to garden design. The classic garden allows the visual and the atmosphere to speak for itself. To create a beautiful classical scene, opt for shrubs and flowers, a classical tiered fountain, and hand-crafted stone outdoor furniture.

Flowers and Shrubbery

The composition of a classic garden scene is actually fairly simple. The intricacies and details come from how the plants and flowers are arranged. When choosing plants for your classic garden, keep your list fairly short. All you will need is a collection of shrubs and selection of a few of your favorite flowers to add a bit of color to your space. The main design of your garden should be determined by where your shrubs are placed. You can even design them in a way that your garden has deliberate pathways. You can then accent your setup with the colorful flowers and vines.

Classical Tiered Fountain

When it comes to choosing a fountain for your classical garden, there is one main option that overshadows the rest. This option is the classical tiered fountain. A classical garden will seem nearly incomplete without the presence of a grand tiered fountain to finalize the look and feel of your space. Taking nods from ancient Rome and on, these amazing structures evoke an old-world feel while creating a scene that is welcoming and soothing. There are a wide range of sizes and styles to choose from, some complete with sculptures and figurines. There is sure to be a fountain that is perfect for your scene.

Stone Outdoor Furniture

Your garden is a place of peace and serenity. To better enjoy your time there, it is important to choose some outdoor furniture so that you can have a place to sit and absorb the beauty of your space. While they are countless styles and materials used to produce outdoor furniture, one of the best options for a classic garden setup is the use of stone furniture. The right stone benches, stools, and tables are perfect for complementing your scene. There are options made from granite, jade, marble, and more. The designs, ranging from smooth and basic to textured and intricate, are all great accents to a natural scene.

With all of the styles and designs that are always becoming available, sometimes the most desirable option is the simple, classic one. When it comes to designing a garden, the classic look is always a good choice. With the right plants, a beautiful fountain, and some classic stone furniture, you can have a classic scene in your own backyard.

 

Low-Maintenance Tips for the Busy or Lazy Gardener

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Gardening is a very rewarding activity. But, it can also be very time consuming. To some people, gardening is reserved for retired women who enjoy their golden years taking taking care of flowers and herbs. They believe that the rest of us couldn’t possibly find the time to devote to being responsible for maintaining life. But, these people are truly mistaken. There are options out there for those of on a strict time budget who still would love to have a bit of extra life in their homes. To build the perfect low-maintenance garden, use planters instead of your yard, grow low-maintenance succulents, and confine your garden to a small space.

Planters

One of the most time-consuming and involved aspects of building a garden is preparing the location. For many people, that includes, tilling, digging, fertilizing, and more. The process of preparing your soil for growth is an entire project on its own. You can skip this process entirely by opting to grow your plants in containers instead of in the ground. This way, you can set up your garden in no time. You can simply organize your planters however you’d like, fill them with fertile soil, and begin the planting process.

Succulents

When it’s time for the planting process, you must decide which plants you would like to grow in your garden. This is another thing that discourages the busy gardener. Many people believe that growing plants is a high maintenance, time-consuming task. For some, this is true. But, it doesn’t have to be that way for everyone. For the gardener with limited time and resources, succulents are a great family of plants to choose from. Cacti are a type of succulent, but don’t let that lead you to believe that they are not beautiful. There are many different variations of succulents, growing in many colors, shapes, and sizes. They require little water and maintenance, and look wonderful in an outdoor setting.

Limit Your Space

Sometimes, when growing a garden, people often get a bit too excited. They pick a huge location in the yard and plan to grow every little thing that piques their interest. This seems fun at first, but it can quickly become extremely overwhelming. Be sure to avoid this issue and save yourself plenty of time and frustration. When planning your garden, deliberately limit your available. You may even want to place you planters on a balcony or patio. This will ensure that you save time setting up and maintaining your new garden.

Gardening isn’t just for the people who have the whole day at their disposal. Some of us have busy lives, but would also enjoy having a little plant life around to keep the energy fresh in our homes. There are options for the busy or lazy gardener. If you use planters, grow succulents, and limit your growing area, you’ll hardly have to do any work to have your garden.

Create a Contemporary Outdoor Scene

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , , , /by

The 21st century is upon us, and while some people enjoy the feelings of tradition and nostalgia, some of us are ready to take on the future with new styles and new habits. These ideas are present even when designing your landscape and installing a water feature. There are a wide range of styles, designs, and materials that evoke feelings of the old world, the new world, and the natural world. If you are one of the people who embrace contemporary styles, there are a few elements that would definitely come in handy for your outdoor design. The best water feature options are spillways and contemporary standalone fountains, and you can accent your scene with LED lighting and simple stone planters.

Water Feature Options

If you’re going after a modern look, the two main types of water features for you are spillways and contemporary statuary fountains. Spillways create a sleek and smooth sheet of water that flows into a basin below. The shapes created by the water are perfect for the simple, modern scene. There are also many styles of statuary fountains that evoke a similar feel. They come in a wide range of unique designs that must be seen to be fully comprehended. They take a more artistic approach to the contemporary setting, and serve as the perfect new age accent.

LED Lighting

A great way to enhance the look and feel of a modern outdoor environment is by installing LED lighting in your water features and landscape. There are lights that can illuminate the sheet of water flowing from your spillways, giving them an even more stunning effect. You can also use small lights to brighten stairs, walkways, and to accent the texture of walls. There are many different colors of lights, and some are even color changing. With these lights you can create the perfect modern nighttime scene.

Stone Planters

Something that is not often brought in a conversation of modern styles is the presence of plant life. But, we are discussing the plans for an outdoor scene, after all. Your scene doesn’t have to be overgrown with plants and greenery, but a few lively accents can add the perfect touch. The best way to make these accents is with the use of simple stone planters. Choose designs that are smooth and simple, that won’t take away from your contemporary style. Put in basic plants, that are mainly green and not too colorful. The essence of modern style is simplicity.

Embrace the times as they change, and be willing to change along with them. Create a scene in your landscape that evokes the feeling of the current age. With sleek spillways or contemporary fountains, LED lighting, and simple plant accents, your outdoor space will be the perfect example of natural progression.

 

Cleaning your Pond and Fountain

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Having a pond with a fountain installed on your property is a great way to transform your landscape and maintain a system of life and energy. There is nothing like seeing a grand display of water in the center of your pond, knowing that there is entire ecosystem of fish, plants, and other organisms below. As such a large feature of your landscape, and the home of many animals and plants, it’s extremely important to keep your water healthy. Your pond is a collection of life; there is an abundance of nutrients and bacteria. Both are necessary for proper health; the most important thing to consider is balance. There are a few ways to keep this under control.

Remove the Sticks and Leaves

The main way to keep your water healthy is to simply clean it physically. One of the best things you can do is to skim the organic material out of your water. It is expected for leaves, sticks, and other pieces of natural debris to fall into your water. What people don’t always consider is the effect that this debris has on their water. As it begins to decompose, it releases toxic chemicals, and depletes the supply of oxygen in the water. If you want fresh, clean water, it’s up to you.

Some people look to chemical cleaners for the pond, but it’s important to know that using chemicals to keep your water clean is usually only appropriate for shallow ponds that do not house any animals. For those of us with fish, plants, and other organic life, it’s important to keep the water clean without the use of harsh or toxic chemicals. The best way to stay on top of this is with the process of aeration, which increases the levels of oxygen in the water. That is the purpose that the fountain will serve in your garden.

Aeration

The main type of pond fountain that you will encounter is the floating fountain. It is designed to sit on top of the water, and pull up gallons, shooting them into the air. These are not only useful for the stunning display they create. When the water lands on the surface of the water, gases are released, air and water mix, and the oxygen levels increase.

These are very effective, unless you have a very deep pond. For bodies of water where the floating lake fountain doesn’t provide enough aeration, there are diffused aeration systems. These units, appropriate for depths of eight feet or more, push air down to the floor of your pond, aerating the entire body. The air pressure creates a constant flow of bubbles, a great way to increase the levels of dissolved oxygen in the water.

Like anything that involves the responsibility of preserving life and balance, owning a pond requires attention and care. The addition of a fountain to your pond, along with regular cleaning, will help with the health of your water and all of the organisms that live in it.

How a Pond Fountain Will Add to Your Landscape Design

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Water Feature Pros loves to work with landscapers and be a part of large scale design projects. A type of fountain that we recommend would be a lake fountain. Lake fountains add a floating or diffused element to man-made or natural bodies of water. If you are designing for a place that already has a pond or lake, then a lake fountain will add much to your entire project.

A lake fountain keeps the water looking great

An aeration device will make sure your natural or man-made lake looks great at all times. Aeration is very important in multiple ways. Dissolved oxygen needs to be present throughout the lake so that the fish can live off of it. Also, aeration keeps the water from becoming stagnant. We all know stagnation is a terrible thing and symbolizes death and decay. I’m sure you do not want that. Stagnation works to destroy bodies of water in another way. Unwanted algae or other vegetation growth will prosper if the pond or lake becomes stagnant. Your client will appreciate how their lake area always looks pristine.

Add a spectacular sight to your lake

High powered water works will represent your amazing water feature. You can buy your pump at whatever horse power suits your lake. A typical statuary fountain flows with gravity, but lake fountains send water skyrocketing, keeping your client’s head high and expression amazed.

The flow pattern

Other than sheer power, lake fountains have varying flow patterns. These patterns have multiple streams which bend in varying degrees. Our online catalog features the different lake fountains according to their flow patterns.

Lighting

Lighting is essential for all outdoor landscaping in our opinion. Lighting insures that your clients will not be bored with their outdoor space once the sun has gone down. Actually, lighting should add an element that will encourage the clients to stand outside and watch the light show that their lake fountain can give them. For the price, it is certainly a worthwhile investment. Lights are often times interchangeable and can be turned off as need be.

Other things to consider

Lake fountains can be either floating or diffused. Floating lake fountains obviously float and pump only the top two feet of the lake. These fountains are appropriate for shallow lakes. Diffused lake fountains have an element that can gather water that is deep in the lake.

Build a Backyard Getaway Vacation in Your Own Home

/0 Comments/in /by

Daily life can feel like a chore for anyone. There can be a lot of pressure at your career, your family may demand quite a bit of your time, and daily life is simply unpredictable. Sometimes, all you need is a vacation. But, you don’t always have the time. Create a place in your own home where you can escape the worries of your life.

You would be surprised at how easily you can transform your garden, balcony, or patio space into your private escape. There are a few key things that make up a good vacation; consider them when you begin your transformation. Your setting must be beautiful, your environment must be relaxing, and most importantly, you need privacy. With a well-placed water feature, your setting can be achieved, and you’ll be in another place in no time.

Location, location, location

Begin by choosing the location of your home vacation. Common places are gardens, balconies, or a certain spot in your backyard. Once, you’ve chosen your prime location, the next step is creating that beautiful setting. A great way to bring life and energy to your area is to add greenery, or to start a small garden. Be sure to use live plants, as artificial ones take away from natural feeling. If you don’t have a green thumb, or if you’re short on time, opt for plants that don’t require much watering and attention.

Decisions, decisions

Your next step is choosing which water feature is appropriate for your space. Maybe you’ve chosen an indoor getaway, where a wall fountain or self-contained floor fountain is more appropriate. If you have a chosen a courtyard or garden, a classic stone fountain is a great way to add a bit of class and elegance to your landscape. Or, maybe a tranquil pond is more your speed. Once, your location is picked out, the choice shouldn’t be too hard make.

Time to get away!

Your final step is to enjoy your space! Once you finally have the time, kick off your shoes, make your favorite drink, and take an instant trip. Your newly transformed space will transport you away from the worries of the world. The soothing steady sounds of your fountain will mitigate street and city noise, and you can feel like you are far from home.

Your Backyard Zen Garden

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

Spending time in a peaceful outdoor setting is a great way to connect to the Earth and find a true sense of peace. There is a certain level of serenity that the natural elements bring, and that serenity is the main goal of a zen garden. A zen garden is a simple and peaceful setting that is designed to keep your energies flowing with the universe. You can build your own zen setting, and find peace in your own backyard. The main thing to consider when creating a zen garden is the elements. You will want to be sure that all of the basic elements (air, fire, earth, and water) are represented.

Air

This is the easiest element to implement in your space. Being an outdoor space, the air flow should be abundant. This is more a matter of location than anything else. Be sure that the space that you choose for your garden is open with plenty of room for energy and air to flow. Mother Nature will have no problem taking over from there.

Fire

Fire is more of a tricky element to represent in your zen garden. The trick to representing fire is that you don’t have to have actual fire present to accomplish your goal. Many zen gardens symbolize the element of fire by using the color red. If you would prefer a more in-depth and realistic depiction of this element, you can install a fire pit or decorate the area with red candles.

Earth

When people think of a zen garden, it is usually the earth aspect that comes to mind. To represent the earth in your zen garden, it is common to use sand, or sometimes gravel. You will have to periodically rake the sand as minor maintenance. This also contributes to a popular aspect of the zen garden. Not only will raking keep your sand free of debris, but you can also use the rake as a meditation tool, creating patterns in the sand and centering your energies in your garden.

Water

One of the most peaceful elements of the zen garden is the water. It adds a refreshing and energetic touch to the space, while contributing to the soothing energy around. To represent water in your zen garden, be on the lookout for different outdoor water features. There are a wide range of styles and sizes to choose from. One of the best options is a pond, especially with a waterfall, to give your space movement and dynamics. There are also many modern stand alone fountains that come in simple designs that fit perfect into a zen setting.

You’ll be able to find serenity in your own setting in no time. Connecting to the elements brings you a sense of peace that is often overlooked and taken for granted. With representations of air, fire, earth, and water, your backyard will be a spiritual oasis.

Building a Kitchen Garden

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

People garden for all types of reasons and in many different styles. One of the most beneficial types of gardens is the kitchen garden. What is a kitchen garden, you ask? Well, it is not a collection of plants that you grow inside your kitchen. A kitchen garden is actually a collection of herbs, vegetables, and fruits that you plan to use in your actual kitchen. They are a great way of saving trips to the grocery, eating healthy, and knowing the source of your food.  They are easily accomplished with a sturdy set of  stone planters to organize your different foods. To make the most of your kitchen garden, pay close attention to your plant selection and prepare to preserve a portion of your harvest.

Plant Selection

Herbs

Growing herbs in your kitchen garden is one of the essentials. There are countless uses for various herbs, and you will be able to spice up any meal with their fresh flavors. You can choose from many plants and variations, including mint, chives, parsley, basil, and cilantro, just to name a few from a long list of delicious herbs. Chop them up for some of your favorite recipes, or dry them for the perfect topping or herbal tea blend.

Fruits and Vegetables

This is obviously where you’ll get the bulk of your bounty. When you are choosing which fruits and vegetables you would like to grow, consider what grows best in your climate, and what you will be able to eat plenty of. Different types of lettuce and greens grow very well, and are very versatile. Tomato plants grow in abundance, and it sometimes can be hard to keep up with all they produce. Other choices include, squashes, onions, and peas, which all go great in salads, casseroles, or stir-fry’s.

Preservation

Oils and Vinegars

A great way of making use of your herbs is by preserving the flavors in oils and vinegars. There is only so much they you can eat fresh or have dried. There are several methods for infusing your herbs with oils and vinegars to preserve, some taking weeks to complete. You can use these delicious homemade creations in salad dressings, marinades, and much more.

Cans and Jars

The best way you can make use of all your vegetables is by learning how to can and pickle them. You can combine them with some of the herbs you’ve grown to make delicious creations that you’ll be able to enjoy and share with your friends and family. These techniques allow you to make the most of your garden, even when the winter comes around.

Your kitchen can be full of things that come from your own back yard. It doesn’t get much fresher and safer than that. And, there is nothing like enjoying the delicious taste of a plant that you helped to grow. Make the most of your home. With a collection of planters and a selection of plants, your pantry will be full by the end of the summer!

Bring Life and Energy to Your Front Yard

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

When it comes to developing the scene outdoors, much attention is normally paid to the backyard space. With it being the more private outdoor space, people seem to be more inclined to develop that space. It is where many of us host our outdoor get-togethers, cook-outs, and children’s birthday parties. With all of the attention being paid to your backyard, it’s easy to overlook the great ways you can bring more life and style to the front of your home. With a few certain details, you’ll be surprised at how nice your home looks. With a simple flower garden, planters or urns, and small birdbath, your home can be on the cover of magazines.

Flower Garden

Gardening is one of the best ways to cultivate life and bring a new sense of color and energy to any outdoor space. You don’t have to have a major green thumb to maintain a simple flower garden. Framing the front of your house or your front porch with flowers serves as a great accent. Visit your local hardware store to find some stones to create your frame. Acquire some planting soil, if need be, and begin your garden space. Pick out some of your favorite flowers, and arrange them around your home or porch. You can purchase seeds or flowers that have already been potted.

Planters and Urns

If you would prefer not to have an in-ground garden, or if you would just like to take your floral design to the next level, consider the use of planters and urns for your front yard. These are a great way of accenting your space with a piece of art and bit of life. They come in many styles, sizes, and shapes. The right set of planters are great for adorning an entrance of staircase. Fill them with your favorite plants, or just use them as their own decoration.

Fountains and Birdbaths

When it comes to installing a water feature in the front yard, some people question the decision. Many people don’t want the piece to overwhelm the scene of their homes. There are many small garden fountains and birdbaths that are perfect for front yards. The right small piece can even sit in your flower garden, making that space a center for life and energy. The colors, butterflies, and birds will transform your plain front yard into a stunning neighborhood oasis for all your neighbors and visitors to see.

Don’t allow your front yard to just be another plot of grass on the street. Allow it to accentuate the style, class, and natural beauty of your home. A few deliberate changes can make all the difference. A small lively flower garden, a set of classic, commanding planters, and a small fountain or birdbath can turn your home into the envy of the neighborhood. It’s the face of your home; make the most of it.

Host the Perfect Garden Party or Barbecue

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , , /by

When the skies are blue, the breezes are warm, and the sun is shining throughout the day, it is a great feeling to spend your time outdoors with your family and friends. Hosting a beautiful and fun garden party, picnic, or barbecue is a great way celebrating holidays, birthdays, and special events. Sometimes, it’s great to have a little get together just for the fun of it. No matter what your reason is for having your loved ones over, it’s important to take care that your event is enjoyable for you and your guests. If you want to ensure an enjoyable shindig, make it a potluck, and enhance your scene with greenery and lighting.

Make it a potluck!

When you’re having people over for food, one of the hardest things to accomplish is preparing enough food, or types of food that everyone will like. One of the best ways to circumvent this type of issue is by asking your guests to contribute to the feast. Offer a main course and a couple of other options, then allow your guests to bring items that they would like to share. This ensures that there will be enough food for everyone, and that all of your guests will be guaranteed to enjoy at least one dish (assuming they enjoy their own cooking!).

Decorate with Greenery

If you are having garden party, the plants you have growing in your outdoor space is the truly the life of the party. Be sure that your favorite flowers, vegetables, and greenery are properly displayed. Consider installing a few planters in your setting. That is a great way of adding an extra element of class and elegance to your space. There are many stone planters and urns available that can enhance your scene with there design alone. Combined with the right plants, these containers are guaranteed to enhance your scene for your next get-together.

Lighting

An easy thing for people to overlook is proper outdoor lighting, especially when hosting guests. But, there is a lot you can do with lighting to enhance the scene and experience for everyone. There are a wide range of LED landscape lighting options that allow you to illuminate walls, staircases, and walkways with the perfect accent of light. You can even install lights in a pool, pond, or fountain, for a stunning effect. They come in many colors, and some are even color changing, allowing you to create the perfect scene at your next garden party.

No matter the occasion, you’ll want your event to go over beautifully. While you can’t be in control of every little thing that may happen, you can at least set yourself up for success. Avoid awkward conflict over food by having a potluck-style event, enhance your garden party with perfectly-placed greenery, and accent your landscape with the LED lighting. Your guests will be amazed, and you’ll be proud of your home.