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.