Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Chocolate Cups | New Year Special | Dessert Recipe By Ruchi Bharani



Learn how to make Chocolate Cups, a special recipe to make creative and deliciously edible Chocolate Cups, a recipe by Ruchi Bharani.

This year is about to end, bid farewell to this year, with tasty and sweet Chocolate Cups, a recipe by Ruchi Bharani. Chocolate Cups add sparkles to your new year party. So make this special dessert and serve your guest those delicious Chocolate Cups

Ingredients:
- Dark chocolate
- Cream
- 200gms Bitter Chocolate
- chopped figs
- chopped cranberries
- chopped walnuts
- Sprinklers

Method:
- Melt the dark chocolate in microwave for 40-45 secs, then whisk it until its smooth liquid
- Add the melted chocolate into the silicon cups
- Refrigerate it for 7-8 minutes
- Add Bitter Chocolate and cream together and microwave it for 50 secs, after which whisk it.
- De mold the chocolate cups
- Once the chocolate sauce is cooled down, fill it into a piping bag
- Add few pieces of chopped figs, chopped cranberries, chopped walnuts into the chocolate cups
- Over which add the chocolate sauce and garnish it with sprinkles

Sunday, December 27, 2015

Round Fire Pit & Seat Walls



The round fire pit on this property is surrounded with a seat wall that has an 18 inch back rest. This is a nice addition to outdoor seating areas. Outdoor cushions can be added to make this a very comfortable fire pit area. Learn how to place a fire pit on your property and how it's properly laid out.

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Saturday, December 19, 2015

Weed Control-DIY



Ahmed explains the use of preemergent herbicides for weed control. This video is part of Landscape Tips with Ahmed Hassan show hosted by Ahmed Hassan .

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Friday, December 11, 2015

NanoSet Polishing System



NanoSet Color is a technologically advanced liquid concrete dye that adds gorgeous color to the concrete substrate. The concentrated formula is a proprietary blend of dye solutions, not pigment dispersions, that penetrate deeply to create a durable, fast-drying color with exceptional lightfastness.

The eco friendly product formula may be diluted with the NanoSet Densifier NS, water or acetone to create a translucent finish for a variety of concrete surfaces (e.g. broom finish, troweled, etc.). Seal with compatible sealers.

While NanoSet Color may be used as a penetrating colorant for a variety of porous substrates, it is commonly used in conjunction with the NanoSet™ Polishing System or other polishing systems. See instructions below and read the technical data sheet for more info.

The eco friendly product formula may be diluted with the NanoSet Densifier NS, water or acetone to create a translucent finish for a variety of concrete surfaces (e.g. broom finish, troweled, etc.). Seal with compatible sealers.

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

DIY Water Wall- DIY Network



Watch this DIY Network Yard Crashers video where Ahmed Hassan helps transform a small yard into an island oasis. This video is part of Yard Crashers show hosted by Ahmed Hassan . SHOW DESCRIPTION :You never know what you're gonna bring home from the home improvement store - maybe some new patio chairs or a bag of cement - or it could be professional landscaper Ahmed Hassan. It's like winning the landscape lottery: Ahmed waits at stores looking for the perfect weekend warriors who could use his help. People go in thinking they're just buying a bag of mulch, but instead come home with Ahmed and his team, who completely transform their landscape. It's ambush landscaping at its best!

Saturday, December 5, 2015

Introduction To NewLook Concrete Color Stains



An introduction to our flagship product that started it all. Restore and decorate your concrete with The ORIGINAL Solid Color Stain™, a pro-grade water based decorative concrete stain made especially for use with existing, unsealed, interior or exterior concrete surfaces.

Wednesday, December 2, 2015

Pavestone Venetian Stone™



Pavestone's Venetian Stone™ Series gives a distinctive cleft surface texture to pavements. It's modular pattern equalizes the scale of any project and is fitting to most any architectural elements.

The possible applications for pavers are only limited by your imagination. Maximize your outdoor living experience with a design that is all your own. Create a scenic walkway in a beautiful downtown park. A variety of hues and textures allow you to have unlimited possibilities to both compliment and enhance the natural beauty of any surrounding while being friendly to the environment. From palatial outdoor entertainment areas to pool decks with a relaxing spa-like feel, you can count on unsurpassed strength and flexibility. Concrete pavers can withstand the forces of weather, water and traffic. Plus, they are especially designed to withstand freeze-thaw conditions, making them a good choice for cool as well as warm climates. Your design project will be as beautiful years from now as it is the day it is installed.

Saturday, November 28, 2015

Installing Pavestone Bagged Landscape Rock



Beautify your trees, gardens, bushes and other outdoor areas with Pavestone's landscape rock. Sold in easy to use bags.

Wednesday, November 25, 2015

Introduction To EffLock Product System



Efflock was designed to permanantly stop both primary & secondary efflorescence from appearing on concrete and masonry surfaces. Our system includes the following products:
EffLock Liquid Admixture
EffLock Powder Admixture
EffLock Topical Treatment
EffLock Efflorescence Remover

Saturday, November 21, 2015

Black Mulch



John Matarese reports on mulch thats stay the color black for a whole year.

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Silverstone 3/4" Crushed Decorative Rock at Dixon Landscape Materials



Raj Hansra of Dixon Landscape Materials shows off their new stocking item. This is Silverstone 3/4" crushed decorative rock and it has become very popular. We think it is so popular because of the beautiful colors with blue, green, gray, streaks of white. It looks good wet or dry and is easy to install.

Call Dixon Landscape Materials at 707-678-8200, and visit their website at www.dixonlandscape.com.

Sunday, November 15, 2015

How To Replace A Sprinkler Head- DIY Network



Watch this DIY Network video on how to replace a sprinkler head with these easy to follow these tips from Ahmed.

Wednesday, November 11, 2015

Saturday, November 7, 2015

Patio Pavers and Walkways - DIY Network



Ahmed explains the essentials of creating patios and walkways as a part of his show, Landscape Tips.

Monday, November 2, 2015

How To Build A Rain Garden - This Old House



This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shows how to use rainwater to sustain a lush garden

Friday, October 30, 2015

25 Creepiest Halloween Makeup Ideas



Scariest Halloween makeup ideas ever! These creepy make up looks for girls are some of the most horrifying dolls, zombies, ghosts, clowns, and zipper faces.

Which was your favorite makeup?

Monday, October 26, 2015

Pavestone RumbleStone™ Round Fire Pit



Pavestone RumbleStone™. Rustic building blocks for your outdoor hardscape projects. Simple to complex, large or small, the possibilities for creative expression are as far and wide as that inner child's imagination.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

The Perfect Patio-DIY



Ahmad explains the best way to lay out a new patio of decomposed granite. This video is part of Landscape Tips with Ahmed Hassan show hosted by Ahmed Hassan

Monday, October 19, 2015

Black Mulch Is So Popular, We Had Trouble Keeping It In Stock



At Dixon Landscape Materials we have always sold a lot of Black Mulch and had trouble keeping enough of it in stock, so now we stock 100 yards of it at a time!

Black Mulch is very popular for home landscaping around plants and bushes and is just as popular in commercial landscaping. The color gives excellent contrast with the plants, trees and bushes.

Dixon Landscape Materials is located at 150 East H Street in Dixon, CA. Call us at 707-678-8200 and visit our website at www.DixonLandscape.com

Monday, October 12, 2015

How to Mulch: The Three Musts Of Mulching



How to mulch shows you how to apply mulch to your gardens and landscape. Using Proper mulching techniques you can have healthy garden beds. Your plant beds will look their best if you follow the three musts of mulching.

Thursday, October 8, 2015

How To Make A Frankenstein Jack-O-Lantern



Get in touch with your inner mad scientist and make this monster pumpkin with a tutorial from expert carver Tom Nardone!

Monday, September 28, 2015

Steep Slope Front Yard Landscaping | Hillside Landscaping



Landscaping ideas for a steep slope or hillside. Front yard landscaping is created for a circular driveway on a slope or hill. Landscape planting ideas for xeriscaping front yards.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

How To Get A Marbled Finish Using A Dry Brush Application



This video shows you how to get a marbled look using a Dry Brush application technique. Products used are NewLook's Translucent Enhancers with 4 Color Additive bottles to boost the color. The colors used here are Terra Cotta & Light Oak over a base of Solid Beach House Original Solid Color™ Stain.

Friday, September 18, 2015

How to Grade Your Yard | Lawn & Garden Care



Learn how to grade your yard from landscape architect Patrick Weisel in this Howcast video.


So some of you have searched for how to grade your yard. A think to remember is grading is better left to professionals.

Grading is actually changing the slope of your yard and changing the drainage. That's not something a homeowner wants to do.

What you really mean is probably how do I level out my soil? And that's pretty simple. If you've loosened up your soil already what you want to do is take hard rake.

Whether it's a hard tined rake like this or a larger landscape rake like this one which is a bit wider which will give you a bit more leveling.

The first thing you want to do is just pull the organic matter off the top of the soil and get that loosed up and sort of rough level on that. The soil like that. Pull the organic matter off.

And then you can come in with the backside of it and just go over the top taking the high areas to the low areas. The key here is to loosen up the soil first so that you can really move it around.

And then you might come in with your landscape rake which is a little bit wider and allows you to get a better level.

So, something to remember here a little tip for you is that after you've leveled it out when it's dry like this you might want to wait until after a rain to see how it ends up.

Because there are a lot of air pockets in the soil right now. And after a heavy rain the soil's going to settle and it'll be a little uneven again.

So, once you've gotten through one rain then go back out there with your rake. Again, loosen up the surface of the soil and then rake it again.

Then you should have a pretty level surface that you're ready to seed your grass on.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015

Lodi Decorative Rock at Dixon Landscape Materials



Raj Hansra of Dixon Landscape Materials shows us the popular Lodi decorative rock. This comes in several sizes and this one shown is 1-1/2". It is available in 3/4", "Pea" size 3/8", and also available in two cobble sizes 2"- 4" and 4"- 8".

This decorative rock is very popular because of the vibrant gold, brown, gray and off-white colors, especially when wet as shown. They are very popular around plants and many other locations in landscaping including being used in dry creek style displays.

Call Dixon Landscape Materials at 707-678-8200, and visit the website at www.dixonlandscape.com.

Saturday, September 12, 2015

How To Lay Rocks For A Garden Border



Give a natural look to your home landscape with a rock garden border that's as budget-friendly as it is simple to lay.


Step 1: Buy or find rocks
Buy rocks that complement your yard's color scheme at a garden store, or gather rocks from the outdoors to lay a garden border.

Tip
Install landscape rocks with an audio feature to add music to your garden.

Step 2: Rake
Rake debris, including weeds, rocks, and sticks, from the area intended for the rock border.

Step 3: Dig a trench
Dig a 4-inch-deep trench along the garden edge where you plan to lay the rock border, wide enough to accommodate the size of your rocks.

Step 4: Add sand or mulch
Smooth 2 inches of sand or mulch over the trench to help prevent weed growth.

Step 5: Set the rocks
Set the rocks edge-to-edge in the trench for the length of the border and tap the rocks down using the rubber mallet.

Tip
Add a second rock layer to build a short garden wall.

Step 6: Clean the rocks
Spray the rocks clean with your garden hose. Now, wait for Mother Nature to fill in the gaps as the garden grows, or hurry the process along by planting your favorite dwarf plant varieties in the spaces between the rocks.

Did You Know?
The three basic types of rocks are igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015

NewDeck With CoolStain Technology



NewDeck’s patent pending, water-based formula includes water-repelling sealer technology for a long-lasting finish. Its ready-to-use solid color formula may be diluted with water to achieve more transparency. Use NewDeck to restore the finish and reduce the surface temperature of wood and composite surfaces, such as Wood Decks, Railings, Roof Shakes, Wood Shingles, Siding, Roofs, Fences, and Wood Patio Furniture.

Saturday, September 5, 2015

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

Playground Wood Chips At Dixon Landscape Materials



Raj with Dixon Landscape Materials shows us their very popular playground wood chips, which is made from Cedar and certified for playgrounds. It is also used all around the garden, parks and so on.

Call Dixon Landscape at 707-678-8200 and visit their website at www.dixonlandscape.com

Sunday, August 30, 2015

Thursday, August 27, 2015

Impression Patterns by NewLook



Say good-bye to stamps and stencils! Impression Patterns by NewLook offer an innovative approach to imprinting texture and design into fresh concrete. The heavy-duty, long lasting polyurethane Impressions cost less than traditional stamps and the installation process is much more forgiving.

Monday, August 24, 2015

Mediterranean Plants For Landscaping



Learn how planting Mediterranean plants can have a significant impact on water use and the overall design of your yard. Many of the grasses, and other plants like lavender are drought-tolerant and have dramatic texture. Get tips on how to select the right plants to add color and texture to your yard.

Thursday, August 20, 2015

The Always Popular Salt & Pepper Decorative Rock At Dixon Landscape Materials



Raj Hansra of Dixon Landscape Materials shows off the always popular Salt & Pepper decorative rock. This rock has rounded edges generally and has a great mix of whites, grays, blues, and tinges of gold. It looks good wet or dry and Dixon Landscape Materials keeps it in stock in 3/4" as shown, 3/8" pea gravel size, 1-1/2" size.

Call Dixon Landscape Materials at 707-678-8200, and visit the website at www.dixonlandscape.com.

Monday, August 17, 2015

How To Faux Finish Concrete Stain - NewLook



NewLook Designer Series Enhancers are revolutionary concrete stains used used to create a faux "acid stain" look with the NewLook FAUX CAT buffer machine. This tool was created by a decorative concrete installer. He modified a weed whacker by replacing the head with a gyrating buffer pad.

Thursday, August 13, 2015

Decomposed Granite (DG) At Dixon Landscape Materials



Raj Hansra shows us a very popular product called DG or Decomposed Granite. It is also sometimes called pathway fines since it is often used in pathways because it packs down so nicely.

Dixon Landscape Materials is located at 150 East H Street in Dixon CA and the phone number is 707-678-8200. Check out the website at www.DixonLandscape.com.

Monday, August 10, 2015

Multi-Use Sports Field at Twin Creeks Sports Complex in Sunnyvale, CA



Rich Orlando, owner of Pacific Grass & Turf. Global Syn-Turf, Inc., artificial grass manufacturer, has been tapped to supply artificial turf for an upgrade and improvement project at Twin Creeks Sports Complex, one of the most popular sports complexes in the San Francisco Bay Area. http://www.globalsynturf.com/sports/

Friday, August 7, 2015

Today's Homeowner featuring RumbleStone™



Pavestone and Quikrete team up with host Danny Lipford to create a backyard paradise. This full episode of Today's Homeowner shows you how to use RumbleStone™ to build a gorgeous paved patio complete with a fireplace and custom planters.

Tuesday, August 4, 2015

Black Mulch Is So Popular, We Had Trouble Keeping It In Stock



At Dixon Landscape Materials we have always sold a lot of Black Mulch and had trouble keeping enough of it in stock, so now we stock 100 yards of it at a time!

Black Mulch is very popular for home landscaping around plants and bushes and is just as popular in commercial landscaping. The color gives excellent contrast with the plants, trees and bushes.

Dixon Landscape Materials is located at 150 East H Street in Dixon, CA. Call us at 707-678-8200 and visit our website at www.DixonLandscape.com

Thursday, July 30, 2015

4 Water-Saving Irrigation Tips During Droughts and Beyond

Water is an essential component of human and plant life, and when droughts occur, the resulting water shortages have an impact on everyone. The 2014 drought in California has caused devastating effects to residents of the state, leading to widespread repercussions for the entire country. Although dead, dry lawns are unattractive (and may even lead to fines), it is possible to irrigate one's yard without using excessive amounts of water.
A Lush, Green Lawn Without Ecological Backlash
Whether your area is anticipating a California-sized drought or you value the planet intrinsically, conservation is possible, and a balance between aesthetic curb appeal and conscientiousness can be had. Consider these recommendations:
- Irrigate smarter, not harder. Consider a rotary sprinkler head for your irrigation system to direct water more efficiently and lose less to the wind while irrigating.
- Convert your green. Did you know lawns do not have to be made of the typical grasses? In a dry spell, you can easily kill off your grass and replace it with other plant seed that will sprout quickly and require less water from your irrigation system. Amidst the recent California outcry for water conservation, organizations are paying residents to make this switch.
- Maximize with mulch. Convert part of your lawn to a garden with mulch, soil, or pea gravel. Of course, thirsty plants will cost you water, too, but hardy shrubs, cacti, or other dry-weather plants work well. You could also line the area with rock and other attractive accoutrements without the need for watering.
- Reduce your lawn size by laying wood mulch, rubber mulch, or pea gravel and erecting a jungle gym, gazebo, or other lawn ornament that doesn't require water. In this way, the appearance and usability of your lawn is not lost to the drought or efforts to conserve.
- Drip irrigation. Upgrading to a low pressure system requires less water and less energy to perform. This will save you money and protect the planet. Drip irrigation may seem overly sophisticated for some people who want a lush lawn, but the savings in cost and efficiency are astronomical. Because of the slow, low-pressure drip functionality and the low-lying wind avoidance, these systems lose less water and therefore take less money from your pocket.
- "Smart" controllers. There are many irrigation systems available today which automatically deactivate in the event of adequate soil moisture, air humidity, or detection of rain. Investing in a "smart" system can ensure that you do not have to manually shut off the system following a miraculous rain.
Further, the irrigation systems with these intuitive built in technologies may actually know more about the surroundings than you do, having the ability to detect soil moisture at a depth to which most people will not excavate. Stop wondering and upgrade to a system that does all the dirty work for you. This will cut back on costs, because the sprinklers won't be running when the grass doesn't need them.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8657255

Saturday, July 25, 2015

"Stamp" Concrete With Impression Patterns By NewLook



An Impression Pattern is a durable, long-lasting polyurethane pattern. It's not a stamp. It's not a stencil. It's an Impression—the new method for imprinting texture and design into fresh concrete and overlays.

Impression Patterns are easier to use than their stamp and stencil counterparts and they're very versatile. They cost less and are much more forgiving.

They are available in many popular field and border stock patterns, including ashlar, brick, cobble stone, and random stone. You can even customize your Impression to achieve any intricate design you want.

Preparation

Prepare the Impression once the concrete is poured properly and finished with a steel trowel or bull float. Thoroughly coat both sides of the Impression with liquid release. Spray a liberal amount of release onto the concrete, as well. This prevents the Impression from sticking and helps it leave a well-defined pattern.

Placing the Impression

Place the Impression wherever you want. Don't worry about laying it down perfectly. The process is very forgiving. The marks and lines left from the Impression will disappear when the Impression is troweled. Adjust and move the Impression as needed until you are satisfied with its position.

Troweling & Finishing

One of the unique benefits of using Impressions is found in the finishing process. Begin by gently tapping and troweling over the Impression. This helps push the Impression into the top layer of fresh concrete so that the top part of the Impression becomes flush with the concrete surface. Use standard troweling techniques to achieve the desired finish.

Once the Impression is set, you can add texture using a textured roller. Be sure to coat the roller with release agent. Using powder release can also help prevent puckering and sticking.

Remove the Impression

Once the concrete is dry, remove the impression by lifting up from one end.

Saturday, July 18, 2015

Pavestone "Creating Beautiful Landscapes"



The possible applications for pavers are only limited by your imagination. Maximize your outdoor living experience with a design that is all your own. Create a scenic walkway in a beautiful downtown park. A variety of hues and textures allow you to have unlimited possibilities to both compliment and enhance the natural beauty of any surrounding while being friendly to the environment. From palatial outdoor entertainment areas to pool decks with a relaxing spa-like feel, you can count on unsurpassed strength and flexibility. Concrete pavers can withstand the forces of weather, water and traffic. Plus, they are especially designed to withstand freeze-thaw conditions, making them a good choice for cool as well as warm climates. Your design project will be as beautiful years from now as it is the day it is installed.

Wednesday, July 15, 2015

Landscaping With Artificial Turf - A Few Benefits

A backyard with lush green lawn is every homeowners dream. Nothing can bet the joy of spending quality time on a backyard lawn with family and friends. Especially when you have taken the hard work to grow such a beautiful lawn.
But growing a lush green and healthy lawn required hard work. It's not a week's job. Planting the right seed, watering frequently, looking for seasonal changes, and many more areas that a healthy lawn demands.
This and many more factors gave birth to artificial turf. The artificial turf as the name suggests, is a surface that looks exactly like the natural one, but without any hard work and maintenance. Lay it once and you are done of at least 10 years.
Being artificial has got many advantages over the natural one.
  1. It does not requite water (obviously, it's artificial!)
  2. No lawn mowing, so no need to buy an expensive lawn mower
  3. Does not get infected by diseases
  4. Dogs and other pets can't chew them
  5. Looks exactly like the natural one
  6. Can be used indoor as well
Since artificial lawn does not require water, you can use it in indoor areas
as well. With natural lawn it is absolutely necessary to take care of the water drainage. If the lawn receives enough direct sunlight then this problem is taken care of. if the water on natural lawn is not drained properly, pools of water can quickly become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. This can be dangerous to kids and other family members.
With artificial turf you altogether eliminate all these problems. SO should you go for artificial turf landscaping? Well, before you make any decision first go out and have a look at some live projects finished with artificial turf. Walk on the artificial lawn with bare feet, touch it, take photos and compare them with a natural one. Take a feel of the entire things, costing is also important.
So landscaping with artificial turf can save you money and time in a big way. But if natural lawn gives you satisfaction, even with a lot of hard work, take your decision wisely.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/656567

Sunday, July 12, 2015

Environment-Friendly Tips For Lawn Care

Caring for a lawn is not as easy as installation a turf and that's it. It entails a lot of important things to do to ensure that you will have a healthy, clean lawn all year round. For most individuals, taking care of a lawn is a daunting task since you will need a lot of time, efforts, and sometimes money. Indeed, it can become a costly and tiresome task; however, with expert help, it can be made a lot easier and cheaper.
There are experts or professionals who can greatly help you with caring for your lawn. When it comes to choosing which among the professionals to opt for, you must always consider experience, reputation and how comfortable you are to work with them. Most importantly, choose an expert who can give you invaluable tips when it comes to proper lawn care maintenance.
Eco-friendly Lawn Care Tips
Use biopesticides - This is a chemical made from natural occurring elements which can control the insect population. It only affects the targeted insects and won't have any adverse effect on other animals. Some of these chemicals has a scent that can lure insects into traps.
Conserve water through rainwater irrigation - When it comes to watering your lawn, always consider conserving water. This does not mean that you stop watering your lawn rather you could make use of rainwater instead. You can actually harvest rainwater and store it in drums or perhaps make your own rainwater collection system by using food-grade plastic barrels. Of course, you will need an electric pump in order to create sufficient water pressure to power the irrigation system. In order to get optimal results, you can actually elevate the rain barrels and allow gravity to increase the water pressure.
Invest in eco-friendly equipment - Instead of opting for gas-powered tools like lawn mowers, trimmers and blowers, go electric. Based on studies, gas-powered mowers produce about 10% of all air pollutants formed from portable gasoline machines. This is why, it is crucial to choose corded and battery-powered lawn care equipment. You would not just cut down on emissions but you will also save money in the long run if you make use of electric power equipment.
Practice mulching and composting - Mulching will actually save you time and energy and the grass clipping can provide you with about 25% of the fertilizer your lawn might need. Composting, on the other hand, will recycle organic material to be spread back into the earth for nutritional purposes. Indeed, mulching and composting can greatly benefit the ecosystem.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8583978

Thursday, July 9, 2015

Decorating your Lawn with Rock Gardens

If you do not want to create a flower garden, you can create a rock garden instead. Rock gardens may seem simple to set-up, but you will still have to weed and keep other debris from ruining the look of the garden. If you have rocky gardens, you will benefit from a rock garden.
In order to create a rock garden, you will need:
Rocks
Rake
Sand or mulch
Vine plants
When designing you garden, you should draw a map that should include the size of the garden, and placement of the rocks and other items. When building your rock garden, you should follow these simple instructions:
Clear the area of rocks, weeds, grass and other debris that may be on the ground. You can choose to till the soil or just let it be. You will have to wed the area even after you place the rocks.
Find rocks of different sizes. You can find them in your yard, in someone else's yard, at the park, or while traveling. You should use a variety of different rocks that are also different colors. If you want, you can buy different colored gravel and create a small Zen-like rock garden.
Place your rocks the way you want in the area.
Add mulch if you will be planting vines or plants. Hearty vines and plants will look great in your rock garden.
Clear your rock garden of weeds as soon as you see growth. This will make clearing them easier.
Rock gardens can be fun, whimsical, and creative. You can build a rock garden that will also serve as a drainage system for your lawn. A dry creek bed will make the perfect rock garden and also keep water from clogging the soil in your yard. Build the drainage system at the bottom of a slope and dig a small trench. You can decorate the trench with rocks as well.
If you do not like traditional landscaping, you can try a rock garden. They are inexpensive and easy to set up. You will have to weed, but that's about it. Many people who do not want a lawn that they have to take care of every day will create large rock gardens. They are decorative and functional at the same time.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/385062

Monday, July 6, 2015

Beyond the Lawn Day: Not Enough Water Can Cause Brown Spots!



One American needs 78 gallons of water a DAY. But it's with everything included. Another episode explains why dehydration can be a killer, or not..

Friday, July 3, 2015

How to Cope With A Drought



It is especially important to be aware of inefficient water usage during times of drought. Here are some ideas to keep in mind when water supplies start to dwindle.


Step 1: Plant drought-resistant plants
Reduce your water use in the yard by planting drought-tolerant varieties, mulching trees and plants, and watering your lawn only when absolutely necessary.

Tip
Water your yard early or late in the day to prevent water evaporation. Do not let water run off into the gutter.

Step 2: Fix water leaks
Fix leaks in your faucets and water pipes.

Step 3: Take short showers
Take short showers and turn the shower off between soaping up and rinsing. Reducing your shower time by one or two minutes can save up to 150 gallons of water each month.

Tip
Install water-saving shower heads for extra savings.

Step 4: Adjust toilet tank
Place plastic bottles or bricks in your toilet tank to reduce the amount of water used when you flush, and don't flush unnecessarily.

Step 5: Don't leave water running
Don’t leave the water running when it's not necessary. This includes while brushing your teeth, shaving, washing dishes, cleaning vegetables, or washing your car.

Step 6: Optimize appliance usage
Operate your washing machine and dishwasher only when they are full.

Did You Know?
Besides absence of rainfall, droughts also take place when water supplies do not keep up with human demand.

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Turf Irrigation - How To Save Water And Your Lawn During Drought Years

In climates that have long, hot, dry summers, the turf varieties most commonly used are perennial grasses that not only thrive in hot weather, but also develop deep and extensive root systems. These properties can be exploited to reduce water consumption in normal years, and to minimize it during drought years. With the suitable variety and correct irrigation practice, the lawn may look poor under the minimalist regime, but its root system should remain intact, allowing the grass to appear as it should when more water is available in better years.
Under regular circumstances, the amount of water calculated for any given irrigation, is the volume required per day, multiplied by the number of days between each watering. This interval differs for heavy, clay soils that retain water well, as opposed to light, sandy soils, which do not. Lawns growing in sandy soils may need watering every 3-5 days, while in clay soils the interval could be between 7-14 days. It is preferable to extend the interval as far as possible in order to encourage a deep root system, assuming that the species chosen has such properties. Lawns grown in this way are more able to withstand drought and reduced quantities of water.
Here is a way of using less water each time. Let's say for example that we water our lawn every 10 days, and set the irrigation timer accordingly. The lawn appears green, lush, and healthy. Instead of setting the taps to open on the tenth day, we wait until the first signs of stress exhibited by the grass, which occur, say, after 12 days. From now on, we apply the same quantity but for 12 days instead of ten!
Now let's take this a step further. Instead of watering when the first signs of stress appear, we wait until the grass really starts to brown-off. This may happen after a further 7-10 days or so, but the quantity supplied at the next watering is still that which is appropriate for a ten-day interval. The grass may look dire during that period, but it should recover after being irrigated, while little or no damage is inflicted on the roots. This is how a lawn can be saved during a drought year.
It must be made clear however, that such a regime is not suitable for all lawn types. To reiterate, it works with warm climate, perennial species, preferably with those that grow by rhizomes, (stems that grow horizontally, under the ground) such as the many varieties of Bermuda grass, Kikuyu, or Zoysia. Some of these examples may not be ideal from every point of view; Kikuyu for instance, is feared as a noxious weed in many places, but here we are only referring to water conservation. It is also assumed that the method presented here should only be attempted on established lawns.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1201151

Saturday, June 27, 2015

How to Use Rocks For Landscaping

Rocks, when used in landscaping, not only provide beauty to the landscape, but harmony. Many consider a garden or landscape without rocks incomplete. Rocks tend to balance the landscape and intrigue and invite guests. A simple large rock in a garden can be a place to sit and enjoy the landscapes around you. Simple loose stones or gravel can be walkways that offer a natural appearance that creates a setting that is warm. The following are a few suggestions on how to use rocks to landscape that will help to enhance your garden.
How to Use Rocks to Landscape
  1. When you select rocks for your garden, choose rocks that are native stone in your region so they create a natural ambience. The rocks should complement each other and be similar in color. Do not vary the hue of the rock colors.

  2. Choose rocks that vary in size. As with the color, the rocks should complement one another such as smaller rocks complementing larger rocks. The rocks should create harmony that is balanced and flows.

  3. Construct terraces or garden retaining walls from stone. Use stone on walkways and patios which can be cut to specific forms or naturally shaped.

  4. If you already have rocks that are in the garden that enhance the garden, do not remove them, add to them and work around them.
Use Small Rocks in Your Garden to Add Texture
  1. Gravel or crushed granite can be used to naturally texture walkways. Both add a natural flow to the garden and create an ambience that is appealing.
  2. Around trees and shrubs use small rocks which will help to retain water.
  3. If you choose to have a gravel bed in the garden then rake the gravel so that it flows and then accent the bed with rocks.
Accent and Sculpture the Garden with Rocks
  1. In flower beds, place moderate sized rocks as well as in planting groups. Consider the shapes and colors of the plants and choose rocks that highlight and complement the plants. Position the rocks so that they have a natural flow and be sparing with their placement.

  2. Spread boulders or large rocks in groups of two or three or singly so they become a focal point. Boulders can be beautiful in the garden adding height and dimension. Boulders should be carefully selected so that guests to the garden can enjoy them as a set or other garden functions.

  3. Add intrigue to the garden by stacking rocks on top of each other. Stacked rocks create energy and mystery and truly add beauty to the garden.
When you shop for rocks you are going to want to ask yourself if the shape and color is appropriate for the garden's landscape. Landscaping with rocks does add natural appear to your landscape whether small stones, boulder or large rocks or a combination. Use the guidelines above which will help you to create the perfect ambience for your garden.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7251971

Wednesday, June 24, 2015

Turf War At The Bay Area Largest Water Agency



here's a bit of controversy swirling around the Bay Area's largest water agency.

The East Bay Municipal Utility District is considering extending rebates to customers who install artificial grass, but not everyone is happy.

EBMUD officials are still split on the issue and plan to discuss it again during a meeting next month.

In the meantime, some homeowners are moving ahead with their conversion to fake grass, but not everyone likes the idea of being rewarded for it. Tor Mclean's yard in Lafayette is getting an extreme makeover. He's saying goodbye to dirt and gravel and hello to synthetic turf. "This happened to be done at a time when everyone else is doing it. It's going to look pretty. It's going to look good, won't have to spend a lot of money on it, conserve water," he said.

There could be new incentives for EBMUD customers who go synthetic. EBMUD already offers rebates of up to $ 2,500 to customers who switch to drought-tolerant landscapes. Cash rewards may be extended to those who fake it with the artificial turf with a rebate cap of $1,200. "The idea being, that if you're going to convert your landscape there should be some natural material to convert it, not all artificial," EBMUD spokesperson Abby Figueroa said.

However, some environmentalists don't like giving rebates for something fake. StopWaste sent a letter to East Bay Mud in protest. "This stuff has no place to go after its useful life other than a landfill and people may install it and send it to landfill a few years after the drought is over," Stop Waste spokesperson Gary Wolff said.

Business is booming for the synthetic turf industry. Hayward-based Global Syn-Turf http://www.globalsynturf.com says it is barely keeping up with demand.

Friday, June 19, 2015

Complete Video Guide to Artificial Grass for Dogs Installation at Memorial



Pet Grass-85 artificial grass is excellent for professional dogs and pets facilities. The installation process is slightly different than with other Global Syn-Turf synthetic grass products. Please notice that there are no stitch lines on the backing of Pet Grass-85. Consequently, more care and attention than usual will need to be devoted to its preparation, allocation, and seaming.

Monday, June 15, 2015

Different Ways Of Using Artificial Turf For Your Outdoor Space

Indeed, artificial turf has plenty of benefits. Of course, it will not need regular watering, feeding or mowing. Also, it is green all year round, and it can be as soft as the real grass. In fact, from a distance, it is hard to differentiate the real from the fake.
For homeowners, artificial turf can be your best option in order to boost the appearance and performance of your outdoor spaces. Experts indeed have provided a couple of tips for doing such.
Great Ways To Make Artificial Turf Work For Your Outdoor Space
Play Area - Lawns surely can take a real battering in areas of your home where your children usually play in and may need patching or repairing. With artificial grasses, these areas will certainly look fun and enticing for children, yet will be robust enough in order to stand up to sports, games, and to the general wear and tear. Another excellent advantage is that the surface will not get muddy; thus, children are less likely to bring dirt inside your home.
Outdoor Dining Spaces - Certainly, there are lots of benefits to using artificial turf to carpet outdoor dining spaces. In fact, it usually complements the style of furniture and will be able to withstand chairs that are being moved back and forth across it. Indeed, artificial grass can be your best option in such place since it will not stay damp like natural grass - hence, your furniture will not rot or rust. Also, since it will not need mowing, heavy furniture will not be moved every weed in summer.
Edging - It is true that edges are not straight. With that in mind, this artificial lawn will look very stylish and contemporary as a result of the irregularly-sized white paving blocks. Among the best benefits of using artificial turf is that it will always look tidy and neat. Most importantly, it will not require the weekly chore of edging that would be necessary if you use a natural grass.
You can actually make a lot of home improvement projects with the use of such turf. The options are indeed endless. If you think you cannot manage to care for a natural lawn because you are too busy with your work or studies, consider opting for an artificial turf. This option will not require a lot of your resources like your time and money. You just ensure that you get the right type of artificial turf for your home.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8707752

Friday, June 12, 2015

Gator Dust For Stone Joints


Polymeric Stone Dust For Stone Joints 1/2″ to 4″

Gator Dust is a unique mixture of polymer binders and calibrated crushed stone available in two colors : Sahara Beige or Stone Grey. Once Gator Dust sets, it becomes very firm and locks between the stone joints. This firm bond maintains the stones securely in place, being equally effective on both horizontal and sloped surfaces.

Features
  • Product works at above 15°C (59°F)
  • Compatible with all types of wetcast & natural stones
  • Gator Dust is ideal for joints that are a minimum of 1/2″ (1.25 cm) to a maximum of 4″ (10 cm) wide
Easy to install
  • Sweep into the joints
  • Tamp and clean stones
  • Spray a mist of water
  • And you’re done
Helps prevent weed sprouting.

Helps prevent damages caused by insects.

Helps prevent erosion due to climatic conditions, such as wind, rain and freezing.

See Dixon Landscape Materials for all your stone and stone joint needs.

Tuesday, June 9, 2015

Amazing Lawn Transformations



At Global Syn-Turf we think life is amazing. Why don't we just transform our lawns into something beautiful and super cool? Why can't we live life being with people we love and our small friends we care about?

Saturday, June 6, 2015

How to Install Synthetic Turf? Artificial Grass Installation. Part 2.



Second part of an artificial grass installation by http://www.globalsynturf.com. Dave Maronic and our unbelievable crew starts with rolling out the turf. View first part http://youtu.be/LW0eJyudxYc

Wednesday, June 3, 2015

How to Install Synthetic Turf? Artificial Grass Installation. Part 1. Base Preparation.



The best synthetic turf installation video with Dave Maronic from http://www.globalsynturf.com you want to learn from. Made in the most beautiful place in Northern California, the Lake of the Pines. The base preparation is the most important step in installing synthetic turf.

Sunday, May 31, 2015

Simple Upkeep Of Synthetic Grass

Effortless and timesaving upkeep of synthetic grass proves to be one of the main benefits that many homeowners, businesses, landscapers, and athletes have come to enjoy. Such an investment has a relatively quick return on investment, thus making it cost effective in the long run. Manual labor is cut down significantly, including watering, mowing, and weeding. With labor cut, bills are also reduced, saving a large amount of money over the course of a few years. In a time when many are busy at work and finances are rough due to the economy, synthetic grass is the ultimate solution to conservation.
For many states that undergo crucial droughts and strict requirements for lawn watering, synthetic turf is significantly helpful. Approximately one hour of watering an average household lawn constitutes a total of 220 gallons of water, which can equate to over 30,000 gallons of water a year. A significant part of what contributes to household water bills is simple lawn watering. Synthetic grass does not require a single drop of water, thus enabling households to save on bills and conserve resources. Artificial grass lawns have allowed households to completely get rid of its dependence on water in order to have a healthy looking yard.
Synthetic grass' drainage system is uniquely designed to automatically drain liquids that come in contact with it. A highly perforated and permeable backing allows turf to filter water through easily, from all angles, horizontally and vertically. Thus, no water collects in the surface or threatens the composition of artificial turf when coming into contact with it. This even includes pet urine, which does not harm synthetic grass whatsoever.
Maintaining the best look of synthetic grass requires making sure that large particles and debris are consistently removed from the surface of the turf. This includes leaves, twigs, and other small objects that have the ability to get stuck in between the blades of artificial turf. Simply manually removing such debris will help to keep the blades natural looking and healthy in appearance. While rain is a natural aid to helping clean off debris, a hose can be used for a few minutes to help remove debris easily. When grass blades seem to not stand up as straight, a brush with hard bristles can be used to brush the blades upright once again. Brushing from one side to the other can help to keep the blades upright.
Making sure that certain harmful liquids do not come into contact with synthetic grass is crucial to maintaining it. Liquids such as grease, oil, and acid can be detrimental to the composition of artificial grass. They can alter the tint and color if coming into contact with turf. If minor stains or dirt occur on the surface of the turf, simple household cleaners may be used to clean off stains. With no need for watering, mowing, weeding, or fertilizing, synthetic grass' upkeep is much more effortless than that of a natural grass lawn. Such minimal maintenance allows households and businesses to save precious time and money on their lawns.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5239850

Thursday, May 28, 2015

Walk-on Fir Bark at Dixon Landscape Materials



Raj Hansra with Dixon Landscape Materials shows us the Walk-On Fir Bark which is very popular in landscaping and is much easier to work with than Gorilla Bark.

Dixon Landscape Materials, 150 East H St, Dixon CA. 707-678-8200. www.dixonlandscape.com

Monday, May 25, 2015

Some Gave All...



Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends. John 15:13

Memorial Day – to some it’s merely the beginning of summer and to others it’s a solemn day to remember those who have passed from this life. However, to the war veteran and to the families of fallen soldiers, Memorial Day carries significance so deep that words cannot express their hearts.

When we look into the eyes of those who still mourn these once vibrant men and women, we often sense their loneliness and pain. We hear them choke back tears as they simply say the ranks and names of their military brothers and sisters at a Memorial Day service. White gloves, dress uniforms, rigid posture, and perfectly precisioned salutes represent the reverence and respect flowing from within. Those who have been personally affected by war understand and appreciate this day of remembrance.

What should we say to those who sincerely honor this day? "Happy Memorial Day" doesn't seem fitting. "I'm sorry for your loss" may be closer to appropriate. What would the fallen soldier want from their comrades and the rest of the country on this day?

In an often quoted Memorial Day speech given in 1884 by Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., the speaker ended his address with these words, “Our dead brothers still live for us, and bid us think of life, not death -- of life to which in their youth they lent the passion and joy of the spring. As I listen, the great chorus of life and joy begins again, and amid the awful orchestra of seen and unseen powers and destinies of good and evil our trumpets sound once more a note of daring, hope, and will.”

The American soldier who gave his or her life for U.S. citizens to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness won’t be telling us how to observe the holiday. But I believe that Holmes’ proposition to “think of life, not death” would honor the fallen soldier. Their sacrifice follows the example of Jesus Christ laying down His life for our freedom. It's selfless love for others – not so they can mourn forever, but live!

"We know what real love is because Jesus gave up his life for us. So we also ought to give up our lives for our brothers and sisters." 1 John 3:16

Notice that in scripture and in military service, the willingness to give up one’s life is not dependent on the worthiness of the people who benefit from the honorable act. In a perfect world, all who receive freedom and grace would be worthy of such a sacrifice and full of gratitude. But that’s not the way it is anywhere on earth.

"But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners." Romans 5:8

We are blessed to be living in a free society. May we honor our American soldiers for the liberty we have in this country. May we also give thanks to Almighty God for the freedom we have to spend eternity with Him because of His gift of forgiveness through the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
By Beth Patch

Friday, May 22, 2015

Need Artificial Turf? We Have You Covered!



Check out our huge selection HERE or come on in and let us help you find the turf for your needs!

Monday, May 18, 2015

The Unrivalled Benefits of Artificial Grass for Business

In recent years there has been a massive rise in the number of homeowners choosing artificial grass for their homes rather than traditional grass but what is interesting is that a number of businesses are now choosing to make the switch towards this artificial surface.
Why choose artificial turf?
Many people choose to incorporate artificial grass into designs and projects rather than traditional lawns because it provides them with green grass all year round and it removes the need for any excessive maintenance. In contrast traditional grass will require cutting on a frequent basis to prevent it from becoming overgrown which can look extremely unprofessional.
In the business world where first impressions are everything looking unprofessional can be the difference between getting a deal and missing out. It is important to present a professional image when people visit your company and artificial surfacing can aid you to do so.
Maintenance costs of traditional grass outweigh the costs to maintain artificial grass when you take into consideration the amount of man power required to maintain it and machinery especially if it is a large space. There is also a requirement for fertilisers, weed killers and pesticides in order to keep the grass looking good. In direct contrast of this, artificial turf requires minimal maintenance without the need for mowing, fertilising, weeding or seeding and this can reduce any costs considerably.
With traditional grass it only looks pleasant for part of the year, the rest of the time it is brown and barren. With artificial turf you get luscious green grass all year round no matter what the weather and this can be extremely beneficial for presenting pleasant looking premises to potential customers.
Artificial grass is installed onto a rubber shock pad and is available in a full range of different tyles and pile heights for maximum benefits when the surface is being used for different applications.
Our artificial turf surfacing is normally installed on a 15m shockpad, but can be laid onto an existing stone surface at 25mm in some cases although we will need a site inspection in order to ensure that the surface which we would lay the artificial grass onto is of the highest standard possible. Laying onto a surface which isn't suitable will seriously damage the end result achieved.
Don't be stuck with the hassle of having natural grass for your company, take the next step and invest in artificial surfacing today!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/8629633

Friday, May 15, 2015

Pavestone RumbleStone™ Tree Ring



Pavestone RumbleStone™. Rustic building blocks for your outdoor hardscape projects. Simple to complex, large or small, the possibilities for creative expression are as far and wide as that inner child's imagination.

Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Small Yard Landscape Design



This small yard landscape design was redesigned to fit landscape walls, a pond, raised vegetable gardens, a metal patio cover and more. See how landscape architect Joseph Huettl designed this small yard for outdoor living.

Saturday, May 9, 2015

Artificial Grass Vs Natural Grass

Maintenance of natural grass needs regular use of fertilizers, chemicals and pesticides. It may cause injury to children, pets and animals in the neighborhood. These products migrate into the soil, groundwater and at last merge with lakes, or oceans.
Maintenance
The dry climate makes natural grass very difficult to maintain. Property management companies spend large amounts on water, fertilizers, pesticides, chemicals, and mowing to keep the natural grass in good condition. Synthetic grass does not require any of these items.
Environment
It is not easy to maintain natural grass. They can cause damage to children, and pets. These have a long term effect on the plants, animals, and air. Artificial turf does not require fertilizers, chemicals and pesticides for maintenance. It does not cause any damage to children, and pets. They provide a safe, healthy environment for families and the public.
Safety
Natural grass sports field are not perfectly flat. These can develop dips, mounds, bumps, holes as these are used regularly, which can cause twisted ankles or other injuries.
Appearance
Synthetic turf comes in different lengths, colors and is manufactured to exactly give the same look and feel of Bermuda, bluegrass, centipede. Synthetic turf is soft to touch and does not cause any injuries to children.
Cost
It is much cheaper than synthetic grass. But in long term, the synthetic grass has lower cost when compared to natural grass. It requires grass seed, watering the grass, fertilizers, lawn feed, pesticides and the labor and time for mow, trim, fill. It requires lot of maintenance. Synthetic turf does not have such a long process. It can pay for itself within a few years. It does not require that much maintenance.
Artificial turf can replace natural grass very easily and at almost every place. Artificial turf is now more preferably used in sports ground because it does not spoil due to rough play and it does not has to be maintained again and again.One does not has to worry about mowing, seeding, fertilizing or trimming synthetic turf and that's what makes it the first choice for homeowner's. It looks elegant and stays the same all year long.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6078372

Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Sunday, May 3, 2015

"Today's Homeowner" Backyard Paradise preview



Expert home improvement advice television show "Today's Homeowner" turns a backyard that had been damaged by a tornado into a restful retreat with an arbor and bench for relaxing and a Pavestone paver patio and fireplace that's perfect for cooking out and outdoor entertaining.

Wednesday, April 29, 2015

EkoFlo® Permeable Pebble Binder - Product Demo



EkoFlo® is a breakthrough in permeable, natural surfacing technology. Mixing EkoFlo® with clean, dry pebbles creates a beautiful surface for patios, walkways, tree wells, and drainage conductors. Once cured, the finished product forges a strong and visually stunning surface with high permeability.

Sunday, April 26, 2015

Sports-Themed Backyards



Check out these sports-themed backyards: a putting green and a mini Fenway.

Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Going Eco-Friendly With Artificial Turf

Artificial turf is a technologically advanced and environmentally friendly product out in market today, allowing households and businesses to adopt more sustainable living while looking out for the environment. Consumers and businesses alike have flocked to suppliers and installers of artificial grass due to its money saving and eco friendly benefits that continue to present themselves for several years, throughout the lengthy lifetime of artificial turf. Converting a regular grass yard to an artificial turf yard is a monumental and substantial way to assess and reverse the negative effects on the environment in the present day. By switching to alternative household improvements such as artificial grass such effects can be controlled and even create a new hope for the ecosystem of later generations.
Once synthetic turf is installed, so begins the process of household water conservation. It is estimated that approximately 22,000 gallons of water per household is used on watering a single lawn throughout a single year. 22,000 gallons of water can fill and entire standard sized in ground swimming pool. If you put it into perspective, each house in a neighborhood can use up an entire swimming pool just on watering lawns in a single year. With how environmentally wasteful this is, a single product-artificial grass can greatly reduce, if not completely get rid of this statistic, saving entire swimming pools worth of water as each year goes by. Since synthetic grass can last for several years, the amount of water conserved continues to grow with the lifetime of the turf. With many states that have enacted lawn watering regulations due to droughts, adopting an artificial turf lawn eliminates the need for following regulations, as it does not require a single drop of water.
The fact that synthetic turf does not need mowing also helps to positively affect the environment by eliminating noxious emissions. In the past years, the Environmental Protection Agency has released startling figures pertaining to lawn mower emissions. It is reported that a single lawn mower contributes to an equivalent amount of air pollution as forty-three brand new vehicles that have each driven a total of 12,000 miles. Furthermore, a single household uses 800 million gallons of gasoline a year just on mowing their lawn. The combination of excessive gas usage and air pollution contribute to horrible emissions that create hazards for the environment and the overall quality of living. Aside from intentional uses of gas, there are also gas spills and accidents that further exacerbate negative environmental effects. About 17 million gallons of gas a year are accidentally spilled while refueling lawn equipment and lawn mowers.
Artificial grass helps to keep emissions low, refraining from contributing to noxious air pollutants. With its waterless capabilities, several thousands of gallons of water can be saved each year. Water conservation and lowering emissions continue to be an on-going worldwide effort. By investing in a low-maintenance yard such as synthetic grass, your household can help to effectively reverse negative environmental effects while promoting conservation of precious resources.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5567532

Sunday, April 19, 2015

California Drought Could Last a Decade: Fishman



April 13 -- Charles Fishman, author of ‘The Big Thirst,’ discusses the potential impact of the California drought as it extends through a fourth year and how the state can make changes to water delivery and conservation. He speaks on “Market Makers.”

Tuesday, April 14, 2015

The High Popularity and Growing Trend of Artificial Turf

During times when both of the economic and environmental states of the globe are going through rough challenges, the popularity of installing artificial turf continues to peak at higher levels. Possessing many benefits for homeowners and the environment, artificial turf has infiltrated many areas, proving to be an effective alternative to natural grass. Its practicality and ability to conserve precious resources, time, and money further fuel its widespread use around the world. From professional sports use to individual property usage, synthetic grass' adoption is continually rising.
With a variety of suppliers and installers, synthetic grass products have been engineered to fit many different functions. Sports turf can be used on fields, courts, and greens for different sports. This includes football, tennis, gold, soccer, and lacrosse to name a few. This type of turf is made to withstand powerful play and performance, ensuring optimal durability. Another type of turf includes landscape turf, used both commercially and residentially to stylistically add to the aesthetics of any building or establishment, while keeping maintenance to a minimum. Artificial turf's versatility and easily adaptable nature makes it ideal for any type of landscaping. With residential use, homeowners can enjoy the perks of low maintenance, savings on bills, and adaptability for any household. Households with pets can enjoy hassle-free yards that withstand pet urine and the easy clean up of pet waste. Households with children can enjoy a safe and durable yard for playgrounds and play sets that kids can enjoy. Comfort and no toxicity are important benefits for any household. Public parks and recreational areas can use artificial turf for several years due to its lasting aesthetics and durability.
Conserving water is an environmental benefit that has already made a huge impact on the overall conservation of resources throughout the past couple of years. Areas suffering from droughts have reversed the extent of harmful effects by conserving on water, one yard at a time. The use of synthetic grass has also helped to reduce the number of chemicals and toxic emissions released by the use of lawn mowers, fertilizers, and other heavy emission vehicles.
Saving time and energy on maintenance is perhaps one of the main reasons why many have adopted synthetic grass. With no requirement for mowing, lawns and landscape areas stay manicured and green for several years. Fertilizing, weeding, and edge trimming are also tasks that are eliminated with synthetic grass. Watering is also a significant task that is eliminated with artificial turf. Sprinkler systems and manual hosing are not necessary. With rain, pet urine, and other liquid, modern synthetic turf's technologically advanced drainage systems manually drains themselves. Highly perforated, they allow liquids to permeate, preventing the collection of water, which can harbor bacterial growth. Once synthetic turf is installed, it remains in place and lasts for several years, maintaining its strength, as well as its beauty and tint. From parks and playgrounds, to federal buildings and commercial landscape, artificial turf's popularity continues to skyrocket. With its numerous benefits for the economy and your own wallet, synthetic grass' popularity will only continue to increase throughout time.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5200503