http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/fertigator-stands-up-strong-against-ez-flo.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/fertigator-stands-up-strong-against-ez-flo.html Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:32:17 -0500
EZ-Flo has been around for awhile now and as I have no personal experience with the systems I had a couple who do have an EZ-Flo system review it for me. EZ-Flo systems are good systems that require very little maintenance other than refilling the system as the fertilizer runs out. EZ-Flo has systems for every type of landscape both big and small.

The size of the tank is the main difference in each system. Pricing ranges from around $180.00 for a 1.5 gallon tank which is good for a small residential yard to a 9.4 gallon system that works well for large yards and commercial properties. The big system goes for about $675.00 on average. All these systems are called mainline systems. The only problem with EZ-Flo is that the design is somewhat robust and is somewhat difficult to install. If you aren’t familiar with irrigation systems it is just about impossible and EZ-Flo recommends you get an irrigation contractor or professional to install it. This could end up costing a pretty penny as most irrigation contractors charge $60-$90 dollars an hour which might cost you a bit more.

Fertigator on the other hand is very easy to install. You can hook this system up without a problem and it is very user friendly. Fertigator has recently come out with a smaller system to compete with the 1.5 gallon EZ-Flo systems. Fertigators system is called the Lil’ Mo. The Lil’ Mo is a 1 gallon system that takes up very little space and can be hooked up by anyone. This system goes for about $149.95 on average which makes it very economical for small home owners. Fertigators most popular system is the Fertigator Mojo. This system in my opinion tops the list for fertigation systems as it is easy to install takes up very little space and is a pressure driven system so it also requires no wiring. The Mojo also has a Precise Dialer-Flow distribution controller to control the amount of fertilizer being distributed. The Mojo goes for about $350.00 on average and is the best bang for your buck. Fertigator also has a Pro system which allows the user to set specific zone distribution for the fertilizer release, allowing you to fertilize zones differently; this is the only system available on the market that does this. The Fertigator Pro is good for commercial and large residential landscapes and goes for about $425.00.

Both systems have pros and cons but if you’re a homeowner wanting a yard that puts your neighbors to shame and a system that is easy to install I would have to say that the Fertigator Mojo might be your best bet as it has more features and you don’t have to hire a contractor to hook it up and service it.

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Richard Gilliland is VP of GreenMarkIrrigation.com a online wholesaler and distributor of sprinklers and Fertigator fertilizer systems.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/reasons-to-plant-evergreen-trees-in-your-yard.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/reasons-to-plant-evergreen-trees-in-your-yard.html Sat, 23 Feb 2008 00:00:00 -0600
Dwarf and miniature landscape evergreens are an excellent choice for home landscaping projects. Very little trimming is needed for miniature or dwarf evergreens. They fit into today's more compact yards easily and they can be combined in their own endless mix of color and texture. There are enough cultivars available now that a person could have a bed of all dwarf blue conifers or all gold. Dwarf conifers are the ideal choice to use in a bed that will be seen from inside your home. They are also ideal to use as foundation plantings if acquired at a large enough size to be seen. While the dwarf evergreens start out very small and slow they won't usually overgrow their allotted space.

Unlike annuals or perennials, landscape evergreens will be there for you year round. As your shrubs and trees grow and become established they will need very little maintenance. They provide shade that inhibits the growth of weeds. In spring the colorful new growth on evergreen trees and evergreen shrubs is a delight. Often a lighter shade of color the new growth lends a bi-tone effect to plants. As new growth hardens off the shrubs become one solid color again, except for those that are actually bi-tones like the Snowtip Cedar. In the summer and the fall the dark green conifers are a lush backdrop for bright colored annuals and perennials. And what would winter be without a dusting of snow shown off on a rich green backdrop of evergreen shapes? This makes for a beautiful family Christmas picture in front of the snow topped evergreens.

Tall and narrow evergreen trees like Pyramidal Arborvitaes and Hetz Junipers add height and drama to the landscape. Use these next to a tall, two or more stories, building. In the yard and garden use them as a dramatic accent when you want a sweeping up toward the sky effect. They can also be effective in screening utility poles from view. Large evergreen trees like Native Spruce, Hemlock, Pine and Fir are best kept at a slight distance from buildings. Pruning such evergreen trees while still young will cause them to become chubbier and thicker growing. Use them to block unsightly views, as windbreaks, large hedges and noise blockers. Large evergreen trees create an atmosphere of calm. Having a group of evergreen trees in the yard is like having a group of friends always there waiting for your return.

Broad growing evergreen trees such as Techney and Nigra Arborvitaes, mid size Junipers, Muhgo Pines and Capitata Yews are quite versatile. They can all be used as specimen plants alone or in groupings. They make fine hedge stock. All can be used as foundation plantings around fairly large buildings. Any except the Muhgo Pine would be a good choice to hide service meters or screen from view any number of distracting items that might be eye sores in your yard.

Dwarf and Intermediate evergreen shrubs are excellent used as foundation plantings. Most of the dwarf and Intermediate evergreens are compact and dense growing. They fit well as accents in perennial gardens. Dwarf Alberta Spruce, Emerald Green Arborvitae and Holmstrup Arborvitae are often used in this way. There are several very compact growing Arborvitae and Chamacyparis that can be used as tiny specimen and hedges in and around the perennial garden. Hetz and Little Giant Cedar grow two and three feet tall. Their natural round shape and size adds a touch of whimsy to flower and evergreen shrub gardens.

Evergreen trees and shrubs provide nesting for birds during the warm weather and protected roosting sites during the cold of winter. Evergreens come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and you should be able to find one or two suitable to any yard. Choose from any of the firs, spruces, pines, junipers, hemlocks, and hollies to make your yard look bright and beautiful all year long.

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About Author:

Craig Elliott is a freelance writer who writes about topics pertaining to home maintenance such as Lawn Care

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/how-to-get-attached-to-hybrid-tea-roses.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/how-to-get-attached-to-hybrid-tea-roses.html Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500
Hybrid tea roses are among the most beautiful flowers in the world. They are the florist's rose.


The blossoms are fantastic and each flower can have as many as 60 or more petals. You can not find a more beautiful cut flower.


The fragrance also makes the hybrid tea rose an excellent choice to give as a bouquet or to grow in your garden.


Hybrid tea roses are different from other roses because they produce their flowers usually one bloom to a long stem rather than in clusters. Most hybrid tea roses produce flowers during the entire growing season and the plants grow 3 to 6 feet tall.


Caring for hybrid tea roses is no more difficult than other roses although you do need to give them special care in colder climates. They are no more or no less pest or disease resistant than other kinds of roses.


‘La France’ was the first hybrid tea rose grown in 1867 by a French nurseryman, Jean-Baptiste Guillot. He cross-bred two old garden roses and developed an entirely new kind of rose.


Hybrid tea roses should be planted 18 to 36 inches apart or they can be planted with other flowers in large pots.


There are hundreds of choices when looking for hybrid tea roses. Choices can be made by color, names or fragrance. There are hybrid tea roses named after famous people including presidents and their wives.


The very first tea rose was a cross between a China rose and Rosa gigantea. These plants are more bushy than the hybrid tea rose but the well-shaped flower buds remind us of today’s modern hybrid tea roses. Tea roses come in shades of white, pink and yellow.
Start thinking about adding a tea rose or hybrid tea rose to your garden this year


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Did you find this article useful? For more useful tips and hints, points to ponder and keep in mind, techniques, and insights pertaining to gardening and gardening implements, do please browse for more information at our websites.
www.infozabout.com
www.gardening.infozabout.com




Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/how-to-grow-big-tomatoes-at-home.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/how-to-grow-big-tomatoes-at-home.html Thu, 09 Jul 2009 09:02:48 -0500
Selecting a variety of tomato like the "Delicious" that Gordan Graham grew is the first decision you need to make. Some like the cherry tomatoes just don't get big, where others can get huge. Most of the varieties of tomatoes that grow huge are of the indeterminate type.

Just as any plant does, tomatoes require good soil with the right nutrients in order to reach their full potential. Start with well worked and properly fertilized soil and you have half the battle won.

Tomatoes just don't do well without direct exposure to sunlight and heat. If at all possible locate them where hey will get maximum exposure to the afternoon sun.

Don't over water your tomato plants by sprinkling every day. They like deep watering so use a soaker hose and only water them once or twice a week.

The way to ensure your tomato plants have a strong root system is to trim off the bottom couple of branches and plant them as deeply as possible. Tomato plants will grow new roots from any part of the stem that is underground. You can even lay them out horizontally if you find that they are too long, and they will do great.

Overcrowding their tomato plants is a mistake many gardeners make. If space is at a premium cut back on how many plants you grow. Give them at least two feet between plants and you will end up with more and bigger tomatoes than you would with more plants that don't have the space they need.

Indeterminate tomatoes need to be pruned often if you want to get large tomatoes. Simply pinch off the new shoots that start to grow between the stem and main branches, being careful not to pinch off the flowers.

You want your plants to spend their energy on growing a few large tomatoes rather than on a lot of smaller ones, so remove all but the largest tomato from each cluster.

There you have it. You now know the basics of how to grow big tomatoes. With a little luck and a bit of patience you may just grow the next record tomato.

Once you get some truly big tomatoes you might want to consider saving tomato seeds from the biggest couple so that next year you can grow tomatoes from seed using seed that you know have good genes.

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Why not try something different this year? Learn how to grow upside down tomatoes.

Visit my site to learn all about how to grow tomatoes.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/why-we-should-take-pride-in-uk-flowers.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/why-we-should-take-pride-in-uk-flowers.html Fri, 11 Jul 2008 00:00:00 -0500
In the spring the traditional UK flowers include the ever popular daffodil, highly scented narcissi and tulips. Individual hand-tied bunches of daffodils of the same variety, most commonly the bright yellow trumpet daffodil, bring a real sense of warmth and cheerfulness to any room in the house. Vibrant tulips and gerbera awaken the senses looking absolutely delightful when packed tightly into a vase or jug. For a more contemporary look to these traditional UK flowers, single tulips placed in three identical vases gives a trendy and fashionable appeal.

Cornwall growers provide a diversity of traditional flowers which are traditionally associated with woodlands in spring, they are commercially growing flowers such as bluebells to bring a protected species into homes across the country. Themed arrangements depicting peaceful strolls through the leafy glades of the English countryside are becoming increasingly popular in the choice of traditional UK flowers to send or display.

Dainty posies arranged with subtle pink roses, stephanotis, chrysanthemums, carnations highlighted with lilac peonies all provided by UK flower growers are typical arrangements sent as ‘Thank you’ or ‘Get well’ flowers which are predominantly aimed for women who appreciate the sheer beauty of traditional UK flowers.

Elegant vases holding tall flowers have a real English cottage garden appeal, creating dramatic displays using seasonal UK summer flowers such as larkspur, delphiniums, lilies, aquilegias, phlox and of course English roses all in the most subtle tones of cool blues and pretty pinks. Local florists will amalgamate any UK summer flower to add interest and individualism to your design.

Traditional quintessential UK flowers are roses with their many varieties and colours. Florists can create designs which incorporate roses or use them on their own to construct the most striking displays. Large headed cream or pale pink roses teamed with dark green hedgerow foliage arranged in low vases or baskets are a fabulous choice of flower to send on birthdays and Mother’s Day.

Romantic red English roses are undoubtedly the most traditional UK flower to send on Valentine’s Day. Single long stemmed blooms with a bow strategically tied onto the stem are an extremely popular choice for women to send to men, while huge bunches of deep or crimson red roses make a real statement of love.

Traditional UK flowers used in hand-tied bouquets, comprising of vibrant oranges and striking yellow provide a blaze of colour to brighten the senses in Autumn, with chrysanthemums, lilies and carnations all grown in the UK.

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Flowers direct are UK flowers experts, specialising in flowers for all occasions. Funeral flowers, birthday flowers, calla lilys, all for UK flower delivery.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/washington-landscaping.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/washington-landscaping.html Thu, 03 Apr 2008 00:00:00 -0500
We are based out of Nine Mile falls, and have been doing water features since before they were popular. Our equipment is modern and specialized to provide the most efficient service in a timely manner. Whether it be building a retaining wall, excavating for an egress window, or cleaning up a lot for resale, we get in and get it done, quickly and efficiently with minimal impact on the land, except for that one time (just kidding).

Cascading Creations understands how important it is for you to work with a company that is knowledgable, honest and maybe even more importantly FUN. We take great pride in EVERY project large or small, and our LOW IMPACT approach to your land. We provide quality workmanship to your specifications in a timely maner. We also stand behind our work for one full year, and holy crap we actually get things done when we say we will.

http://cascadingcreations.com


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http://cascadingcreations.com
http://cascadingcreations.com/id1.html


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/assemble-your-own-greenhouse-or-allow-us-to-help.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/assemble-your-own-greenhouse-or-allow-us-to-help.html Sat, 11 Jul 2009 03:55:40 -0500
Everyone is not a master carpenter, and many of us don't know how to even start constructing a beautiful greenhouse. For this reason here at Gabriel Ash we can assemble your greenhouse for you so that you don't have to worry about being overwhelmed by the task ahead.

The first thing you need to start with in assembling your greenhouse is firm foundations. A plethora of people choose to utilise a concrete foundation. When you are pouring a concrete foundation you need to ensure that you are pouring the mixture on level ground. The concrete should set for a period of 4-7 days before you start to build your greenhouse frame.

The next step in erecting your own greenhouse is the set up of the frame. The frame is what will determine how wide the base of your greenhouse will be. Start by setting up vertically erect poles about a distance of 6-12 inches away from one another.

The next stage is the roof of the greenhouse and then the side panels, with the door last. Constructing your Gabriel Ash greenhouse is straight forward, but if you want us to do it for you then its no problem - just specify it when you order your wooden greenhouse.


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To know more about Greenhouses and Assemble your own Greenhouse visit http://gabrielash.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/tips-for-a-safe-rust-removal-process.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/tips-for-a-safe-rust-removal-process.html Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:59:03 -0500
Aside from being effective, rust removal must as well be made safe. That is not only for your sake but for others as well that can be in any way tangled to the process and the implementation of it. The approach that you will take can put yourself and others in different situations, unsafe being one of them, therefore it must be carefully thought of before actually putting into motion.

Sure, there are rust removal tips that you can take from others. There is also the net, which can serve as your source for so many tricks that will make you achieve success in removing rust. However, the ones that you should take and try for yourself are not only those that will make the process effective. You should also look for those that will make it be safely completed. Doing so will give you more benefits.

But then, remember that not all rust removal tips works. Some of them may not be applicable to the situation that you are in and some may just be pure deceptive tricks. You have to be wise and careful with what you choose to carry out as they can bring more damages instead of help and can also cause financial waste.

By executing a safe rust removal, you are actually preventing health risks as well as accidents during the implementation of the process. And here are some tips that will definitely be of help.

Favor green rust removers over the conventional products. As the "green" term implies, they are of organic ingredients which make them safer for both humans and the environment. Exposure to them can cause no serious health threats and their release to the environment poses no polluting effects.

For extreme rust damages that will require chemical rust removal products, observe safety precautions during application. Wear gloves and mask to avoid contact. Specifically, this prevents inhaling harmful gases and skin to skin contact with chemicals. Also, open your windows and doors to circulate the air, moving the chemical gases out and fresh air in.

Execute the rust removal process in an area that gives you enough space to move around. That is for treating movable rusted items. In removing stains on fixture, walls and floor, clear the area first before starting the process. This avoids knocking down and damaging other items.

Use proper tools. Apart from being a help in making the process more effective, it avoids accidents due to inappropriate tools.

Apply only the right amount of rust removal product. This is recommended especially when using a chemical rust remover. Too much of it may damage sensitive items such as those made of fabrics.

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Rust removal must also be made safe aside from being effective. There are many rust removal tips that can help you do that only that you need to be able to sort which ones are genuine and which ones are not.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/hydroponic-gardens-grow-crazy-with-general-hydroponics-nutrients.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/hydroponic-gardens-grow-crazy-with-general-hydroponics-nutrients.html Fri, 06 Mar 2009 07:02:08 -0600
Unlike FoxFarm, which caters primarily to traditional outdoor gardeners, General Hydroponics specializes in and markets to hydroponic gardeners, and the company's products are engineered specifically for hydroponic applications. Located just north of San Francisco in one of the premier agricultural regions of California, General Hydroponics maintains a 45,000 square foot facility where new systems and fertilizers are constantly being tested and improved. In addition, this company offers a full line of equipment and other accessories for the hydroponic gardener, including controllers, pumps and replacement parts for various elements of the hydroponic system. The company website itself is an excellent resource for anyone interested in this type of production, including an online "nutrient calculator" to assist in determining the needs of specific plants.

Consumer response to General Hydroponics nutrients has been positive. One of the features of General Hydroponics products is that unlike many such nutrients, they are simple and easy to use. Whereas many such products are two and three-part solutions that require careful mixing, this company's products are one-part nutrients, making the overall process much less complicated in general. Hydroponic gardeners who have reviewed General Hydroponic's products note that they are extremely concentrated; at least one reviewer described the product as "heavy" and "like chocolate tar" - you won't need to use much, but you will require a blender or a good solid whisk in order to emulsify General Hydroponics nutrients properly.

In addition to their semi-liquid products, General Hydroponics manufactures a powdered product known as Kool Bloom. This product is engineered to promote flowering in such plants, particularly tomatoes, by increasing the amount of phosphorus and potassium that is available. Again, consumers report amazing results, but like many General Hydroponics nutrients, a little goes a very long way; overuse of this substance can result in "bloom burn." Nonetheless, these are excellent products in general; hydroponic farmers will find little to complain about when it comes to products made by General Hydroponics, provided they are used judiciously and according to instructions.

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From years of indoor and hydroponic gardening, Susan Slobac has developed an in-depth knowledge of gardening nutrients such as general hydroponics and writes frequently on the subject

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/dehumidifiers-really-help-defeat-moisture-loving-termites.html http://www.articletrader.com/home-and-family/gardening/dehumidifiers-really-help-defeat-moisture-loving-termites.html Tue, 30 Oct 2007 00:00:00 -0500
There are three kinds of reproductive termites in the United States: Subterranean Termites; Drywood Termites and Formosan Termites. Still other types exist in other countries. All three are extremely destructive since their food source is the cellulose that they readily find in the wood used in house construction. Add moisture, which termites require, and a gourmet feast is readily available to them. Paper and cardboard are also on their menu if available.

The Subterranean Termite is the most common species and does millions of dollars in damage to homes. These pests form colonies in the ground outside a home from where they readily travel to the building looking for an entry point where wood meets the soil. Under normal circumstances, they do their damage inside wooden house structures but must return to their nests to secure the moisture they need for survival. If no wood-soil contact point can be found, the termites search around the base of the house until they locate a crack or small hole which they then use as an entry point. Once having gained access, the insects either travel inside the wood they are feasting on or within small, pencil-sized mud tubes that take them to their dining area.

Moisture is a Termite's best friend

Basements, crawl spaces and areas between walls are ideal termite habitants since they are generally cooler and far moister than open household areas. Given the presence of wood, the moisture available is both attractive to them and necessary. It also provides these little enemies with a longer dinner hour by eliminating their need to return to the nest for moisture quite so often. In areas of normally high relative humidity, normal condensation on pipes, wiring and the wooden beams themselves is ordinarily adequate for termites. Any plumbing leaks, no matter how small, also provide needed moisture. Wood plus water is the ideal termite environment.

Make your home less termite-friendly

While the homeowner's first step in reducing termite infestations usually begins outside the building by reducing old stumps, piles of logs and compost/mulch piles near to the home, there are steps that can be taken inside that make a big difference too. First, do away with any obvious leaks at pipe joints and remove any piles of paper, old boxes or anything wooden from basements and attics (yes! Termites can go up too.). Finally, you need to purchase and install one or more dehumidifiers and install them in those areas where moisture is the highest.

Be certain you choose the right dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers come in many sizes and varieties, so it is recommended that you discuss what you need with an expert. Many of the companies that market dehumidifiers will be only too happy to send such a person to 'look over' your home and help you make the right decision. Since these units can get pricey, especially if you need several, it is strongly recommended that you shop around. If you already have a regular extermination service, they can probably help you with this too.

One word of caution is fitting here. Stay away from the appliance dehumidifiers designed for an open room in your home. You probably won't find what you're looking for at any local home improvement store. Normal ratings used on appliance-type dehumidifiers such as energy stars and how many pints of water they remove per day, really won't tell you how effective they will be in a crawl space which is the hardest area to properly remove moisture from. Remember that crawl spaces are probably the most important areas to keep the moisture low in. That's because they generally have dirt floors and are ventilated, which permits warmer air to enter and condense inside them. Also, be sure to remove any wood debris, shavings or sawdust left over from construction in your crawl spaces. This stuff is dinner to hungry termites too.

It is important to install a moisture barrier to seal off any warm, humid outside air from the crawl spaces before you add the dehumidifiers. Most major building supply outlets can help you with this or do it for you. Don't forget that dehumidifiers collect water somewhere. If it is necessary, be absolutely certain to empty the machine's collection pan before it overflows and defeats your purpose. Some self-empty into a drainage pipe so if you have that type, no worries about water buildup.

Have yearly termite inspections

It is really important that you have a professional inspect your home once each year for any new termite problems. Many firms will perform this inspection free in the hope that they will get the job if it is necessary. Use a well-known, reliable company to do this. Many smaller, local outfits have been known to be less than honest with homeowners as to what they need and what it will cost. Be smart. Shop carefully.


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About Author:

Craig Elliott is a freelance writer that frequently writes about Pest Control & Termite Services

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>