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Gardening Made Easy with a Simple Approach

Gardening is a truly rewarding activity, but it can also be very time consuming. Some people stereotype gardening as an activity that is reserved for retired women who enjoy their golden years taking care of their flowers and herbs. They assume that the rest of us couldn’t possibly find the time adorn our homes with plants and greenery. But, these people are actually mistaken. The trick is to take a simple approach and opt for certain low-maintenance techniques. To build the perfect low-maintenance garden, use planters instead of your yard, grow succulents and other low-maintenance plants, and confine your garden to a small space.

Planters vs. In-ground

One of the most difficult 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.

Low-Maintenance Plants

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 novice 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. Remember not to overdo it. 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 space. You may even want to place your 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 don’t have the time or skill, but still would also enjoy having a little plant life around to keep the energy fresh in our homes. There are options for the gardener in this predicament. If you use planters, grow succulents, and limit your growing area, you’ll hardly have to do any work at all!

Low-Maintenance Tips for the Busy or Lazy Gardener

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.

The Perfect Public Courtyard

A courtyard in a public plaza is like the watering hole of such a location. People gather and meet their like animals to socialize and enjoy the environment. The right courtyard setting is lively and energetic, giving the people a sense of rejuvenation and excitement. Are you in charge of developing the courtyard space for a shopping plaza, a school, or other municipal location? Designing the right public courtyard is an important undertaking. With focus on a few important details, you can be sure that the people love your space. Adding plants and greenery, proper seating, and a grand fountain as a centerpiece, will have your courtyard complete in no time.

Plants and Greenery

As previously stated, a proper courtyard is lively. A sense of fresh energy and life can be implemented into your space in a very simple way. With the addition of colorful flowers and thriving greenery, your courtyard will be filled with life and energy. Adding plant life to your courtyard space completely transforms the location from plain to lively. You can easily accomplish this with a collection of stone planters and urns. These will add a sense of class and elegance to your space while providing the perfect location for your plants.

Outdoor Seating

Your courtyard would not be able to be properly enjoyed with no seating. Be sure to provide plenty of space for your guests to relax and enjoy the scene. Conveniently placed benches are perfect for this type of space. It allows people to take a breather and take in the work that you put into their beautiful surroundings. If you have a larger space, especially one with food nearby, outdoor table sets would be the perfect addition. Your guests will be able to enjoy food, company, and conversation in the beauty of your newly designed courtyard.

Architectural Fountains

Complete your courtyard scene with a grand architectural fountain to bring together the entire scene. A stunning tiered fountain in the center of your courtyard will add a sense of class and elegance to your space. It also performs a very subtle, but extremely important, task: noise mitigation. The steady flowing sounds of the water splashing in the fountain creates a consistent sound that blends all of the surrounding sounds, so nothing stands out too much. This is great for making the people in the courtyard feel comfortable and giving their private conversations a bit of respect, all while enhancing the scene of your courtyard space.

Accent your business and municipal location with a gorgeous courtyard for your guests to enjoy. Create a peaceful and soothing space where they can go for light conversation and relaxation. With the addition of lively plant life, outdoor seating, and a grand architectural fountain, your public courtyard is sure to please.

Building a Kitchen Garden

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!

Create the Ideal Patio Setting

When old man winter has blown his last frigid breath, there is no better feeling than emerging from hibernation to feel the warmth of the sun. The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the warm breezes are calling us to experience it all. Do you have an ideal location in your home to relax and enjoy the beautiful days? Be sure to make the most of your patio space. It will become a location that you will cherish. With the right selection of patio furniture, an assortment of live plants, and a perfectly-placed water feature, you can be certain that your patio is perfect for you and your guests.

Patio Furniture

Finding the right furniture for your patio is a very important process. There are so many styles and options, it can be hard to find exactly what you need. Before going out to make a purchase, begin by predicting how you will be spending most of your outdoor time. Some furniture is better for hosting, some is better for dining, and some is best for relaxation. Next, consider your outdoor climate and which materials are best suited for your area. If rain is very common in your area, you may want to avoid outdoor furniture is cushions and other absorbent materials. Finally, find a set of furniture that fits in your allotted space, and create a scene that fits your setting.

Plants, Planters, and Urns

One major mistake that people encounter when designing their patio scene is allowing the space to remain plain and lifeless. Your outdoor space should reflect the beauty and energy that is found in nature. The installation of a few stone planters is a great way to achieve this effect. They are works of art themselves, and also allow you to display some of your favorite flowers and greenery. The presence of living plants will bring a fresh new energy to your patio space.

Outdoor Water Features

Another great way to maintain a refreshing energy is by installing the right water feature for your home. There are a wide range of options available to you. A classic tiered fountain is perfect for accentuating an elegant and refined style. A sleek spillway is more desirable for some people. It creates a contemporary look with a smooth sheet of water splashing gently into a basin below. Any of your water features can be enhanced with LED lighting to take your scene to the next level. Be sure to choose a piece that reflects the style and feel of you and your home.

You patio space should complement your home; it should be an extension of your interests and personality. Create the perfect scene that caters to exactly how you like to spend your time. With the appropriate patio furniture, the presence of a few lively plants, and the addition of a perfectly placed water feature, your patio space can become an ideal backyard oasis.

Is Your Backyard Ready for Summer?

Summertime is a great time of year; some may even say it’s the best. The sun is warm and nourishing, while the days are filled with life and activity. During this time of year, people are often drawn outdoors with a natural desire to enjoy the beautiful weather. With picnics, parties, and cookouts, there’s an abundance of fun to be had. Is your home equipped to make the most of these summer days? You’ll want a space where you can fully enjoy this time. With an outdoor dining area, a collection of flowers and greenery, and a beautiful outdoor water feature, your backyard can be the perfect summer hangout.

Outdoor Tables and Seating

Whether you prefer gas or charcoal, grilling is almost necessary when summertime rolls around. With all of the amazing food you’ll be grilling with your friends and family, it’s important to have a place to enjoy your meal. There are lots of different outdoor tables, benches, and seats to choose from. Consider the size of your yard and the amount of people you would expect to host when making a choice on this selection. For instance, if you are into more intimate get togethers, you can get a small stone table with a few seats to match. Find what works for your space.

Plants and Greenery

A great way to enhance the look and feel of your space is by adding a bit of life and energy with a collection of flowers and greenery. The colors and designs will add beauty, while the aroma and energy of the plants improve the environment of your backyard. There are many shapes and sizes of planters, urns, and other containers for you to house your plants. The containers themselves provide a sense of class and elegance to your space, while giving you a place for your beautiful greenery. What seems like a small accent can be a huge improvement.

Outdoor Water Feature

Another huge improvement comes from a more obvious accent. A great way to enhance the style and atmosphere of your backyard is by installing an outdoor water feature. When it comes to outdoor water features, there are plenty of options. From classic or modern statuary fountains to ponds and waterfalls, there is sure to be something to fit perfectly in your space. A backyard water feature will bring a refreshing element to your summertime space. With options for LED lighting, it can serve its purpose throughout the summer days and nights.

Be sure that you take full advantage of those days and nights. Create an outdoor space that is just right for getting what you want out of your summer. You can have a space that your friends and family will absolutely love. With the appropriate seating, some living accents, and an outdoor water feature, you’ll have a summer oasis in no time!

 

Making the Most of Your Patio Space

When old man winter has blown his last frigid breath, there is no better feeling than emerging from hibernation to feel the warmth of the sun. The birds are singing, the sun is shining, and the warm breezes are calling us to experience it all. Do you have an ideal location in your home to relax and enjoy the beautiful days? Be sure to make the most of your patio space. It will become a location that you will cherish. With the right selection of patio furniture, an assortment of live plants, and a perfectly-placed water feature, you can be certain that your patio is perfect for you and your guests.

Patio Furniture

Finding the right furniture for your patio is a very important process. There are so many styles and options, it can be hard to find exactly what you need. Before going out to make a purchase, begin by predicting how you will be spending most of your outdoor time. Some furniture is better for hosting, some is better for dining, and some is best for relaxation. Next, consider your outdoor climate and which materials are best suited for your area. If rain is very common in your area, you may want to avoid outdoor furniture with cushions or other absorbent materials. Finally, find a set of furniture that fits in your allotted space, and create a scene that fits your setting.

Plants, Planters, and Urns

One major mistake that people encounter when designing their patio scene is allowing the space to remain plain and lifeless. Your outdoor space should reflect the beauty and energy that is found in nature. The installation of a few stone planters is a great way to achieve this effect. They are works of art themselves, and also allow you to display some of your favorite flowers and greenery. The presence of living plants will bring a fresh new energy to your patio space.

Outdoor Water Features

Another great way to maintain a refreshing energy is by installing the right water feature for your home. There are a wide range of options available to you. A classic tiered fountain is perfect for accentuating an elegant and refined style. A sleek spillway is more desirable for some people. It creates a contemporary look with a smooth sheet of water splashing gently into a basin below. Any of your water features can be enhanced with LED lighting to take your scene to the next level. Be sure to choose a piece that reflects the style and feel of you and your home.

You patio space should complement your home; it should be an extension of your interests and personality. Create the perfect scene that caters to exactly how you like to spend your time. With the appropriate patio furniture, the presence of a few lively plants, and the addition of a perfectly placed water feature, your patio space can become an ideal backyard oasis.

Some Do’s and Don’ts of Feng Shui

Creating a comfortable and harmonious environment in your home provides you with a much healthier life overall. A clear and peaceful home makes for a clear and peaceful brain, and a brain in that condition can do a lot more with life. When it comes to making this desired environment, many people go to the ancient technique of feng shui. Feng shui is all about creating a harmonious space where positive energy flows abundantly. There are many elements involved in feng shui, but we’ve compiled a couple of do’s and don’ts with a few tips on how you can enhance your space.

Do

Grow Plants

Any representation of nature in your home provides positive energy. Plants are a great way of introducing a fresh energy into your home. There are a wide range of indoor and low-maintenance plants that will go wonderfully in any indoor setting. With a few planters set in the perfect locations, you will have plenty of natural energy flowing through your space.

Install an Indoor Fountain

Another way of representing nature in your home is with the perfect indoor water fountain. There are a wide range of styles, from wall-mounted, desktop, and floor models. Having a fountain in your home provides an abundance of fresh energy, and the water is actually an ancient symbol of wealth and prosperity.

Negative Ions

Having these natural elements in your home also serve as a source of negative ions. Negative ions are produced by natural elements, and many people are overwhelmed with the positive ions produced by electrical appliances in their homes. Negative ions increase serotonin and energy, reducing stress and anxiety.

Don’t

Clutter

Having a cluttered space is a big N-O. There is no way for positive energy to flow freely with so many obstacles. It is widely agreed that a cluttered environment causes a cluttered mind, and that is a pretty useless thing to have. Be sure that you regularly clear your space of unnecessary items to keep the energy fresh.

Display Negative Imagery

Something that people often overlook is the effect that their artwork and decorations have in their home. When choosing what you will hang on your walls, consider the mood and feeling of that piece of art. Is that mood one that you want to fill your room. Be sure to choose artwork that evokes positive energy and a healthy frame of mind.

When it comes to decorating the interior of your home, be sure to remember that the way you design and maintain your space has a profound effect on the energy of your everyday life. Be sure to keep it simple, and include positive accents like fountains or plants to serve as a constant source of good energy. Your home can be the center of peace and serenity that you need.