If you have ever admired the landscaping design of someone else’s Macomb County home, you might have noticed some of their water features. Water features are focal points that can be included in your landscape which include water of some kind. They can be ponds or fountains, or something else entirely. But if you feel that a water feature is out of the question, you may not be considering all of your options. Continue reading “How To Incorporate Water into your Landscaping Design” »
Perennials vs. Annuals in Macomb County, Michigan
Q. Are you beginning to plan your flower garden for next year? Very soon the garden shows will be starting and you will be eager to start planting. What is your preference perennials or annuals?
A. Annuals or perennials, which do you prefer? In the past 5 years gardeners have added more perennials to their gardens with perennial sales increasing year after year. Possible reasons for the rebirth of the perennial could be the large selection of plant varieties, ease of plant care, and the ability to create an ever-changing garden. On the other hand, annuals offer a blanket of color that lasts throughout most of the growing season. There are many popular annuals that have an amazing array of color to choose from. Once planted, all that is usually needed is water and fertilizer. Continue reading “Perennials vs. Annuals in Macomb County, Michigan” »
Protect yourself with proper pesticide applictions
Q. I am unsure about handling pesticides because feel I do not know enough about them. What are some safety precautions I should take?
A. Pesticide applications are just a part of the overall control of pests. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is the taught method of control by Michigan State Extension Service and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This method teaches you to utilize all available resources to control pest damage. Included in these control measures are water management, proper fertilization, pruning, natural controls and lastly pesticides. The key to a successful IPM program is to monitor the pest problem, determine what level of damage warrants action and using a combination of control methods to prevent the pest from causing extensive damage. Continue reading “Protect yourself with proper pesticide applictions” »
What are My Options for Installing a Patio?
Q. This year I would like to install a patio. I have seen many types of patio options. What are the differences between the types of patios?
A. The choices of materials for patios and walkways are patio blocks, poured concrete, clay and concrete brick pavers installed on sand and brick or stone mortared onto a concrete base. All of these have been used for years and have their advantages and disadvantages. Style, colors, cost, and durability should be considered when choosing what type of patio you want. If you are going to install the patio yourself you should consider how much expertise is needed to install each type of patio. Continue reading “What are My Options for Installing a Patio?” »
Good Topsoil in Macomb is the Key to Growing Success
Q. How can I improve the soil?
A. Successful plant growth in our gardens is reliant on the soil it grows in. Soil condition is often overlooked and can make or break the efforts of the gardener in creating a thriving landscape. Unfortunatly, in many neighborhoods the rich topsoil is removed before the homes are built and the poor soil from the basement excavation is used to fill in around the home. Continue reading “Good Topsoil in Macomb is the Key to Growing Success” »
Two Step Lawn Fertilizing in Macomb County, MI
Q. I have had a lawn service for a while and I am thinking of fertilizing my own lawn this year. Can a brown thumb gardener fertilize his own yard without killing it?
A. Yes, I’m sure you can do the job. All you need is about 30 minutes 2 or 4 times a year and a little observation during the growing season. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a program promoted by municipalities and universities that promotes the use of healthy horticultural practices to reduce the amount of pesticides needed on your lawn. Besides fertilizer, lawns need proper watering and sunlight. By monitoring the lawn throughout the season you will be able to pick up on subtle changes that indicate insect or disease problems. Bring a small patch of lawn into your local garden center for diagnosis help. When you identify problems early it is easier to correct the situation. Continue reading “Two Step Lawn Fertilizing in Macomb County, MI” »
How to Get Ready for Spring Gardening Season in Michigan
Q. What should I be doing now to get a jump start on the gardening season?
A. Spring is here. Ready or not soon the grass will be growing and the flowers will start to bloom. It will be wonderful to see green again soon. There are a few things that can be done now to save time and frustration later. The lack of snow has made the lawns turn even browner than normal. On the bright side, our yards are not as wet as normal. Enjoy it now, we live in Michigan and the weather is sure to change overnight. Continue reading “How to Get Ready for Spring Gardening Season in Michigan” »
Lake Safe Lawn Fertilizing is here in Macomb County
Q. I have heard about the connection between some fertilizers and lake pollution. Can you tell me which fertilizer is lake safe?
A. The term “lake safe fertilizer” refers to a fertilizer which contains mostly slow release nitrogen and is low in phosphorous. Nitrogen promotes green color and growth and phosphorous promotes root growth. Both of these nutrients in our lakes and rivers promote excessive vegetation growth including algae growth. Continue reading “Lake Safe Lawn Fertilizing is here in Macomb County” »
Pond Kits & Water Garden Ponds in Macomb County
Following are the basic steps to build a low maintenance pond.
Though a garden ponds can be as simple as a few plants in a small tub, many people get started in water gardening by purchasing a plastic preformed pond, a pump and filter. This setup will work great for a while, however after a few years most people want to build a bigger pond. They want more water sound, a stream or waterfall. That is when they start looking into liners and more efficient ways to filter the water. Continue reading “Pond Kits & Water Garden Ponds in Macomb County” »
Rhododendrons steal the show each spring in Michigan
Q. I love azaleas and rhododendrons but I have a hard time getting them to grow at my home. What can I do? Signed John K.
A. Flowering rhododendrons and azaleas steal the show each spring. Their beautiful blooms are so spectacular it is no wonder that they are so popular. Rhododendrons are not native to Michigan, but are very adaptable to our landscape. Azaleas and rhododendrons will do well with the right soil conditions and the proper planting location. We can amend the soil to create the proper soil conditions, but for best results we need to carefully choose the best planting location. Continue reading “Rhododendrons steal the show each spring in Michigan” »
