Nothing really because any chemical you use will kill your ornamentals as well. Pulling is the only way to get the grass out and I should know because I'm constantly pulling that crap out of my flower beds. Bermuda grass is the bane of my existence. I wish there was an easy solution.
Bermuda grass has crept into my flower and ornamental grass beds-pulling it creates MORE!! What can I do?
pull the grass back furthur than the flower beds and pull them out especially after the ground is soft from rain,and put down some garden fabric and put a border peice from home depot, or garden center, and remove the mulch adn put some fabric there too after you pull up a bunch of the grass by the roots. the fabric keeps them from getting sun. cover the whole fabric area with a thick mulch.
so what you are doing is creating a large buffer zone around the plants. you can even plant noninvasive ground cover plants on the edges between the plants and the grass giving the grass competition and holding it back. or put rocks as decoration. so it doesn't look like you made a flower bed to big.
RRRRR
Reply:I have the same problem and found a grass killer at Lowes that kills only the bermuda grass and not my flowers. I think you will have to read the container to see what it will do to your ornamental grasses though.
Reply:The product Eskie Lover is refering to is "Image" only kills grass, safe for ornamentals. Another grass only killer is "Poast" be sure to get 'indicator' (blue dye) so you can see where you've sprayed.
Reply:Just pull what you can and ignore the rest if you can live with it. Otherwise you must add a weed killer to your soil and poison it. "Poison"--doesn't sound good does it? It's not! Just try to keep a balance, nature is not a scrubbed clean vacuumed space! People wonder where the Bee's went, why the plants all die in their beds???? Because all the beneficial gentle insects are being wiped out and only the strong predator beetles and such are surviving to eat the plants and the plants can't coexist with the lethal poison being sucked up by their roots. BALANCE.
Reply:Sometimes, if not out of control, a mixture of bleach and water will kill the weeds or grass but not the plant. As with any killer, use when there is no rain in the forcast and best in the day with the sun shinning.
Reply:Take an artist paint brush and paint RoundUp on it. The RoundUp goes thru the leaves, down the stem, and into the roots to kill the whole plant. Keep on top of it so you won't have so much to get rid of all at once.
Monday, May 24, 2010
I want to start a flower bed, where do I start?
I have two pine trees that I want to surround with various types of flower plants, (Hibbiscus, Ivy's, etc.) But should I buy mulch or fertilizer? I have some landscape fabric, but do I lay it down before or after the dirt? And how do I make sure that no weeds will grow?
I want to start a flower bed, where do I start?
First, consider what kind of flowers you want to grow, different flowers have different light and temperature needs. Next,if you are near grass you will have to remove the sod, the grass layer to expose the earth underneath. Then you will need to dig down 12 inches for a really good bed and fill it with a good earth mix; earth, peat moss, lime,organic matter like compost if you can get it,fertilizer, I like bone meal,it is a slow-release formula then mix all these things together well then if you wish lay landscape fabric over the soil then put a 4 inch(I think) layer of mulch over that. Ask your local nursery/garden center about the best mulch to choose. As far as weeds go, there might always be the occasional one pop up, the trick is to pull it as soon as you see it and have professional black garden bed plastic edging installed, it keeps the grass out of the beds. If you are having a garden center do this for you, make sure you watch them like a hawk because quite often they willl try to cut corners. Stick to your guns and research all of these things carefully before hiring anyone. You have to know at least as much or more than they do so you know that you are not being taken advantage of. I do it myself if I can.
Reply:Start with the flowers ;-)
Reply:Installing a new planting bed can become overwhelming. If you're new to gardening, take some advise and don't try to do too much, too soon. Start by clearing the grass out just around the tree trunk - but this is a very important step - remove all the grass you can. If you think something like landscape cloth is going to end you weed worries, guess again. Mulch heavily between your plants. I would suggest using the pine needles that you rake up.
Begin slowly and add to the bed over time, you will become addicted.
Good luck
j
choosing loops
I want to start a flower bed, where do I start?
First, consider what kind of flowers you want to grow, different flowers have different light and temperature needs. Next,if you are near grass you will have to remove the sod, the grass layer to expose the earth underneath. Then you will need to dig down 12 inches for a really good bed and fill it with a good earth mix; earth, peat moss, lime,organic matter like compost if you can get it,fertilizer, I like bone meal,it is a slow-release formula then mix all these things together well then if you wish lay landscape fabric over the soil then put a 4 inch(I think) layer of mulch over that. Ask your local nursery/garden center about the best mulch to choose. As far as weeds go, there might always be the occasional one pop up, the trick is to pull it as soon as you see it and have professional black garden bed plastic edging installed, it keeps the grass out of the beds. If you are having a garden center do this for you, make sure you watch them like a hawk because quite often they willl try to cut corners. Stick to your guns and research all of these things carefully before hiring anyone. You have to know at least as much or more than they do so you know that you are not being taken advantage of. I do it myself if I can.
Reply:Start with the flowers ;-)
Reply:Installing a new planting bed can become overwhelming. If you're new to gardening, take some advise and don't try to do too much, too soon. Start by clearing the grass out just around the tree trunk - but this is a very important step - remove all the grass you can. If you think something like landscape cloth is going to end you weed worries, guess again. Mulch heavily between your plants. I would suggest using the pine needles that you rake up.
Begin slowly and add to the bed over time, you will become addicted.
Good luck
j
choosing loops
How can I fortify my flower gardens against weeds?
When I was a kid I weeded the flower beds once a week for maybe an hour and they always looked great. In my own yard it seems like weeding is all I do and it still looks like a jungle. I'm about ready to give up and pave it over. Can you give me any suggestions?
How can I fortify my flower gardens against weeds?
1) Plant perennials, and plant them close together so they will choke out the weeds.
2) Mulch REALLY deeply so that the weeds will not have enough sunlight to grow.
3) Please do NOT use chemicals like Round-up or Preen.
4) It is said that weeding in time will save you 7 years of having to do it all over again w/ successive generations, so remain vigilant!
5) Put down some strong borders. Weeds are pretty relentless and very strong and adaptable. The borders deeply help in keeping them out of one's flowerbeds, the creeping ones anyway.
6) Keep your lawn mowed so the weeds don't get a chance to go to seed and end up (again) in your flowerbeds.
7) Change your thinking about what exactly constitutes a "weed". I've taken to letting goldenrod, chicory, Queen Anne's Lace, lupine, ground ivy, violets (and tons of these!!!!!), feverfew and wild asters grow in my gardens. They look beautiful, especially the feverfew intermixed w/ echinaecea and bergamot, so it's colors of white, pink and red. Usually people who are driven the craziest by weeds are the more anal-rententive, "It has to be this way in my yard and gardens because I say so" types...Begin to see "weeds" as gifts from the Goddess. The wildflowers will also bring far more bees and butterflies to your gardens. Work w/ nature, not against it. (Because she'll win in the longterm, anyway...) Change your mind, and the rest will follow.
8) Go visit the people with the nicest gardens in the neighborhood, and ask them what they do, or just observe everyday if you don't want to "bother them". Join the Garden Club in your area...
Reply:also, down mow your lawn too short, b/c the thicker the grass the harder the weeds have to work to get a foothold.
great advice above! Report It
Reply:Every year, I remulch mine and use the bagged up mulch. I just toss the bags into the flower bed, cut them open, and spread the mulch out over the plastic and leave the bag underneath (why buy expensive flower bed liners???). Take a screwdriver and poke a few holes in it. It only costs about $50-100/year to do the entire yard, and I never have to pull weeds.
Reply:If you have a bed that isn't dependant on re-seeding plants i.e. shrubs and the such, there is a prduct called Preen, it's a pre-emergant that will prevent weed seeds from germinating. it lasts for about 3 months.
How can I fortify my flower gardens against weeds?
1) Plant perennials, and plant them close together so they will choke out the weeds.
2) Mulch REALLY deeply so that the weeds will not have enough sunlight to grow.
3) Please do NOT use chemicals like Round-up or Preen.
4) It is said that weeding in time will save you 7 years of having to do it all over again w/ successive generations, so remain vigilant!
5) Put down some strong borders. Weeds are pretty relentless and very strong and adaptable. The borders deeply help in keeping them out of one's flowerbeds, the creeping ones anyway.
6) Keep your lawn mowed so the weeds don't get a chance to go to seed and end up (again) in your flowerbeds.
7) Change your thinking about what exactly constitutes a "weed". I've taken to letting goldenrod, chicory, Queen Anne's Lace, lupine, ground ivy, violets (and tons of these!!!!!), feverfew and wild asters grow in my gardens. They look beautiful, especially the feverfew intermixed w/ echinaecea and bergamot, so it's colors of white, pink and red. Usually people who are driven the craziest by weeds are the more anal-rententive, "It has to be this way in my yard and gardens because I say so" types...Begin to see "weeds" as gifts from the Goddess. The wildflowers will also bring far more bees and butterflies to your gardens. Work w/ nature, not against it. (Because she'll win in the longterm, anyway...) Change your mind, and the rest will follow.
8) Go visit the people with the nicest gardens in the neighborhood, and ask them what they do, or just observe everyday if you don't want to "bother them". Join the Garden Club in your area...
Reply:also, down mow your lawn too short, b/c the thicker the grass the harder the weeds have to work to get a foothold.
great advice above! Report It
Reply:Every year, I remulch mine and use the bagged up mulch. I just toss the bags into the flower bed, cut them open, and spread the mulch out over the plastic and leave the bag underneath (why buy expensive flower bed liners???). Take a screwdriver and poke a few holes in it. It only costs about $50-100/year to do the entire yard, and I never have to pull weeds.
Reply:If you have a bed that isn't dependant on re-seeding plants i.e. shrubs and the such, there is a prduct called Preen, it's a pre-emergant that will prevent weed seeds from germinating. it lasts for about 3 months.
Is there anything special that needs to be put down before putting down mulch around trees and flower beds?
I certainly wouldn't put weed and feed down in flower beds. I would also be careful about putting mulch against the bark of trees. That can lead to damage to the tree as it lets micro-organisms stay against the bark.
After I plant my beds I usually put down newspaper, 8-10 sheets thick before I put bark or wood chip mulch. You can also use commercially available ground cloth but I like to recycle when I can. If I'm planting small plants, seedlings, I may put the cloth down first and cut an X in the cloth where I plan to put the plant.
Is there anything special that needs to be put down before putting down mulch around trees and flower beds?
I do two things. I use a weed and feed on beds that have a lot of plants and around trees so that I stop weeds and also fertilize under the mulch. If I am not planting or the bed does not have plant material, before I mulch, I will sometimes put a weed barrier cloth on the ground before mulching. Both save a lot of time and effort, but neither is necessary before mulching.
Reply:yes you need to put a membrane down first to stop weeds coming threw the name of one type is called terram
After I plant my beds I usually put down newspaper, 8-10 sheets thick before I put bark or wood chip mulch. You can also use commercially available ground cloth but I like to recycle when I can. If I'm planting small plants, seedlings, I may put the cloth down first and cut an X in the cloth where I plan to put the plant.
Is there anything special that needs to be put down before putting down mulch around trees and flower beds?
I do two things. I use a weed and feed on beds that have a lot of plants and around trees so that I stop weeds and also fertilize under the mulch. If I am not planting or the bed does not have plant material, before I mulch, I will sometimes put a weed barrier cloth on the ground before mulching. Both save a lot of time and effort, but neither is necessary before mulching.
Reply:yes you need to put a membrane down first to stop weeds coming threw the name of one type is called terram
How can I keep cats out of my flower gardens?
I live on a farm and we have barn cats. They love to use my flower beds as their "litter box". Eww! Aside from that just being gross, they stir up the mulch and make a general mess of things. I don't want to harm the cats but I do want them OUT of my flower gardens! Any ideas?
How can I keep cats out of my flower gardens?
There are lots of ways but unfortunately they are all illegal, feline human rights!!!!!!!
Reply:It,s said that they dislike citrus smell, so I cut up oranges/limes/lemons and put them on the area,s I dont want cats on.
Reply:put chicken wire down. they will stop.
Reply:Moth balls, also will keep squirels, rats away too and I think snakes. But replace after rain. Put around outter edge of perimerter of garden. Heard it at feed store. *mamatx
Reply:Yuck....I have had the SAME problem and it is so gross...and not good for the plants. They took a "shine" to my perrenial flower beds. If it's not the squirrels it the cats...(sigh) I have tried two different things to help combat both problems...Go to Sams and get the GIANT size red pepper flakes...and yes, you have to spread them all around and sometimes after it rains you have to respread them...it helps with both creatures....another thing that helps, but are not really "earth" friendly are Moth Balls...I did have to resort to those with the cats...they helped some too....blow up balloons until they are near the popping stage and place them all in the garden...tied about....sometimes they will unwittingly pop the balloons and it scares them--if you have a leisurely few hours and some fire crackers, sit very quietly close by and..you know what to do...not in an effort to harm them, but just scare them from returning. You could do the same with a BB gun, just fire it into the air when you see them get close to the garden so they associate the noise with the garden. In other words...anything that you can do to make the cats think GARDEN=HELL is a good thing....also often they are there because squirrels and other little creatures are there...so they are attracted to them too...(sigh again!) and they like my bird feeder...which makes me very upset...I have 2 dachshunds which I release without warning throughout the day...that has helped a lot too!!!! Good Luck!!!! And keep up the good fight!!! :) (the do have some Repel things at the Feed and Seed)
Reply:I have tried moth balls, cayanne pepper, and vinegar. None of these work on a cat that has probably seen it before. What I had to do was use fox urine purchased from a garden nursery. That cat walks by and keeps on going. He can't stand the smell. Of course, I don't smell it because I use it sparingly.
I have planted vinca, dusty miller and other deterrant plants and they don't work on cats in this area. Where I lived before it only took a few plants to deter rabbits, cats and dogs all without a fence.
Reply:try shaking some cayenne power in places you don't want the cats. this may also be i,proved to some extent if you crush some moth balls to go with the cayenne powder. one the cats learn they are not wanted they will more than likely stay away. It may also help if you have a spot you can plant that is away from your flower bed is to plant that spot with cat nip
Reply:Go here, please:
http://www.gardeners.com/Safe+Cat+Deterr...
Reply:There's a product in the hardware store that specifically keeps cats and/or dogs and/or deer out of areas you want them kept out of. It's right there with the pesticides but is harmless to the animal, it just repels them.
Reply:I would line up moth balls around the area you want to protect or you could also use chyenn pepper hope this helps.
How can I keep cats out of my flower gardens?
There are lots of ways but unfortunately they are all illegal, feline human rights!!!!!!!
Reply:It,s said that they dislike citrus smell, so I cut up oranges/limes/lemons and put them on the area,s I dont want cats on.
Reply:put chicken wire down. they will stop.
Reply:Moth balls, also will keep squirels, rats away too and I think snakes. But replace after rain. Put around outter edge of perimerter of garden. Heard it at feed store. *mamatx
Reply:Yuck....I have had the SAME problem and it is so gross...and not good for the plants. They took a "shine" to my perrenial flower beds. If it's not the squirrels it the cats...(sigh) I have tried two different things to help combat both problems...Go to Sams and get the GIANT size red pepper flakes...and yes, you have to spread them all around and sometimes after it rains you have to respread them...it helps with both creatures....another thing that helps, but are not really "earth" friendly are Moth Balls...I did have to resort to those with the cats...they helped some too....blow up balloons until they are near the popping stage and place them all in the garden...tied about....sometimes they will unwittingly pop the balloons and it scares them--if you have a leisurely few hours and some fire crackers, sit very quietly close by and..you know what to do...not in an effort to harm them, but just scare them from returning. You could do the same with a BB gun, just fire it into the air when you see them get close to the garden so they associate the noise with the garden. In other words...anything that you can do to make the cats think GARDEN=HELL is a good thing....also often they are there because squirrels and other little creatures are there...so they are attracted to them too...(sigh again!) and they like my bird feeder...which makes me very upset...I have 2 dachshunds which I release without warning throughout the day...that has helped a lot too!!!! Good Luck!!!! And keep up the good fight!!! :) (the do have some Repel things at the Feed and Seed)
Reply:I have tried moth balls, cayanne pepper, and vinegar. None of these work on a cat that has probably seen it before. What I had to do was use fox urine purchased from a garden nursery. That cat walks by and keeps on going. He can't stand the smell. Of course, I don't smell it because I use it sparingly.
I have planted vinca, dusty miller and other deterrant plants and they don't work on cats in this area. Where I lived before it only took a few plants to deter rabbits, cats and dogs all without a fence.
Reply:try shaking some cayenne power in places you don't want the cats. this may also be i,proved to some extent if you crush some moth balls to go with the cayenne powder. one the cats learn they are not wanted they will more than likely stay away. It may also help if you have a spot you can plant that is away from your flower bed is to plant that spot with cat nip
Reply:Go here, please:
http://www.gardeners.com/Safe+Cat+Deterr...
Reply:There's a product in the hardware store that specifically keeps cats and/or dogs and/or deer out of areas you want them kept out of. It's right there with the pesticides but is harmless to the animal, it just repels them.
Reply:I would line up moth balls around the area you want to protect or you could also use chyenn pepper hope this helps.
Should I use maple leaves for insulating new flower beds over the winter, then mulch them in the spring?
First winter in my new house (Chicago area) and I planted a ton of perennials this year, some into September. I have raked some of maple leaves onto the beds to insulate the new roots from the cold, since they aren't that established yet. Was thinking that in the spring I could rake most of the leaves out onto my lawn, shred them with my mower, and turn them into fertilizer. Does this make sense? How acidic are the maple leaves, will I need to amend the lawn or the flower beds with lime or something?
Should I use maple leaves for insulating new flower beds over the winter, then mulch them in the spring?
I always leave the leaves on my perennial beds, especially in the winter here where we don't get much snow cover. It helps protect them, and I don't really see much difference in the kind of leaves, either. I have been gardening for 40 years and I am not about to sort oak and maple leaves. Maples disintegrate pretty rapidly, being a thin leaf, there may not be much of anything left to rake out in the spring, depending on the amount of moisture you get in the winter. Oaks do not rot so easily, being thick. Those I shred in the fall and use as mulch, and I don't take it off in the spring. There is not any acidity that maple leaves add to your soil, they are pretty neutral. Pine needles do add acidity. By the time oak leaves have broken down, they don't add any acidity either, just good mulch. As long as you are adding organic matter to your soil, you probably won't need to add anything. Don't add lime unless you have your soil tested and find that you need it, some plants resent lime and will die from it. Research your various perennials' needs.
Reply:any thing organic is good cover, maybe not potatoes skins unless you want a bed of them too. pet shops have acidie test kits for fish tanks, litmas paper. but you should have checked it befor you started. stay away from lime products unledd you know how too use them first,
dvr
Should I use maple leaves for insulating new flower beds over the winter, then mulch them in the spring?
I always leave the leaves on my perennial beds, especially in the winter here where we don't get much snow cover. It helps protect them, and I don't really see much difference in the kind of leaves, either. I have been gardening for 40 years and I am not about to sort oak and maple leaves. Maples disintegrate pretty rapidly, being a thin leaf, there may not be much of anything left to rake out in the spring, depending on the amount of moisture you get in the winter. Oaks do not rot so easily, being thick. Those I shred in the fall and use as mulch, and I don't take it off in the spring. There is not any acidity that maple leaves add to your soil, they are pretty neutral. Pine needles do add acidity. By the time oak leaves have broken down, they don't add any acidity either, just good mulch. As long as you are adding organic matter to your soil, you probably won't need to add anything. Don't add lime unless you have your soil tested and find that you need it, some plants resent lime and will die from it. Research your various perennials' needs.
Reply:any thing organic is good cover, maybe not potatoes skins unless you want a bed of them too. pet shops have acidie test kits for fish tanks, litmas paper. but you should have checked it befor you started. stay away from lime products unledd you know how too use them first,
dvr
Can casoron be used in perenial flower beds? how about around perenial ground covers?
Try this link for a webring discussion of Casoron:
http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0SO7CxgBThEyh...
"Casoron controls perennial broadleaf and grass weeds that no other selective herbicide can control. Applied in the winter, in a granular form, it can control many weeds including mugwort, horsenettle, bamboo, and Florida betony. However, it can also be very injurious to any herbaceous ornamental, many woody ornamentals and turfgrasses."
(from link below-in Sources)
And then for a lot of really scientific sounding information on Casoron granules, go to: http://www.pesticideinfo.org/Detail_Prod...
Happy Gardening!
Can casoron be used in perenial flower beds? how about around perenial ground covers?
Casseron is not a selective killer--it stops weed seed from emerging and kills where it leaches--as in plants. You need to get some roundup and put it in a small sprayer and kill your weeds systemically or you could pull them prior to their blooming and making more weeds. Remember that all flowers were once weeds and don't stress out over the mess.
http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0SO7CxgBThEyh...
"Casoron controls perennial broadleaf and grass weeds that no other selective herbicide can control. Applied in the winter, in a granular form, it can control many weeds including mugwort, horsenettle, bamboo, and Florida betony. However, it can also be very injurious to any herbaceous ornamental, many woody ornamentals and turfgrasses."
(from link below-in Sources)
And then for a lot of really scientific sounding information on Casoron granules, go to: http://www.pesticideinfo.org/Detail_Prod...
Happy Gardening!
Can casoron be used in perenial flower beds? how about around perenial ground covers?
Casseron is not a selective killer--it stops weed seed from emerging and kills where it leaches--as in plants. You need to get some roundup and put it in a small sprayer and kill your weeds systemically or you could pull them prior to their blooming and making more weeds. Remember that all flowers were once weeds and don't stress out over the mess.
How to add life back to my flower bed?? It is very dry!?
My husband and I have purchased this house, and it is our 1st spring/summer season... I found that the front flower bed is very dry... I have planted some tulips in the fall, and they are not coming in great at all...
I have bought a Iris and Peony bush to put in, and found that it is so dry that I can't even dig a hole... Also We have pretty big Maple and some evergreen planted in the flower bed, so there is alot of roots from the trees to make it impossible to dig holes.
Is there any methods that I can add back nutrients/moisture back to my flower bed, so I can plant my peonies/iris?? What kind of soil should I get?
How to add life back to my flower bed?? It is very dry!?
Improving the soil structure is one of the most important aspects of soil care, and adding organic matter is the most effective way to accomplish this. Organic matter also helps maintain the pH balance of the soil and adds nutrients.
Good topsoil is relatively dark in color, active with microorganisms, plant nutrients, and organic matter, and
usually has a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 (for non-acid loving plants).
To improve the soil structure, or tilth, add organic matter in the form of compost, cover crops, or yard waste. Yard waste such as shredded leaves, crop residues, straw, and similar materials should be tilled into the soil in the fall to allow decomposition through the fall and winter. At the same time, grass clippings, manure, or fertilizer should be incorporated to provide the extra nitrogen required to help break down the dry organic materials. This material can be composted and added to the garden in the spring if your prefer.
For soil that is primarily clay or sand, or that has a hard surface crust (water runs off), or is compacted, incorporate 2 to 3 inches of organic matter in the top few inches of soil and mulch liberally for several years. Also, plant cover crops each year until the soil is improved.
Raised beds or terraces are good solutions for improving extremely poor or shallow (bedrock close to surface or topsoil removed during construction) soil or soil with poor drainage. The site can also be graded, then covered with an 8 to 12 inch layer of topsoil - but guard against erosion. Poor drainage can also be helped by installing drainage tile.
Last but not least, mulch with bark or cocoa bean shells after you've planted. It keeps moisture in the soil, so you don't have to water as frequently and prevents weeds from growing. It also looks good!
Good luck!
Reply:I suggest you create a flower bed or several smaller flower beds elsewhere in your yard where tree roots will not be a problem.
Also, the plants you mentioned like sun. And maples produce a thick leaf crown and tend not to like other plants (except little maple trees) growing under them.
As far as the peony bush goes too, you might treat it more as a shrub or bush rather than a perennial. It does not have to be planted in a flower bed, per se. Plant it in a sunny place in your yard where you might want a shrub. Even after flowering, a peony bush looks nice.
You also have to water a flower bed, even if it is made up of largely perennials.
Peonies and iris tend to like rich, loamy soil.
Reply:It sounds as though your flower bed in the front is a bit crowded for more flowers, if you have room to plant more, it sounds as though you will need to add more soil[I like natures helper and maybe some mushroom compost, to the soil rent a tiller[small one for the area] and til in the soil, this will break up the old soil and help to incorporate the new soil. You could build a raised bed for the plants you want, you could also grow in containers. As far as you tulips go I would fig them up and replant them in some pots with better soil. With you having so many trees in your flower bed it is hard for the flowers to get the water and nutrients they need, the trees will drink up the moisture first, you do not want to cover the tree roots with dirt either, it is not good for the trees. Good luck to you, try some sedum, hens%26amp;chicks smaller plants that require dry soil you want have to water very often if you don't want containers or raised beds.
Reply:http://www.yaoflowers.com/ Congratulations Flowers and Plants:The YaoFlowers Congratulations Flowers and Potted Plants Collection includes all of the perfect ways to say, "Job well done!" Whether your loved ones have just graduated, bought their first home, had their first baby, or received a promotion, celebrate the moment and send flowers from our Congratulations Flowers Collection. When choosing a Congratulations Flower, consider whether your successful someone is more outgoing or more reserved, as a bouquet with lilies will suit the character of the former, while a bonsai may be a safer bet for one distinguished as the latter. Send Congratulations Flowers and PlantsYou can count on YaoFlowers to send your Congratulations Flowers and Plants as if you were delivering flowers yourself. Sent fresh from the fields, our Congratulations Flowers are guaranteed to last for at least 7 days or your money back. They'll come designed with exquisite care, budding and ready to bloom for lasting freshness. When you want to say, "Congrats," send Congratulations Flowers from YaoFlowers and let us help you make their special day even brighter. http://www.yaoflowers.com/congratulation...
Reply:Harry made some excellent comments. I'd only like to add that you could cover the soil in a good organic mulch, and water periodically. The much will break down and condition your soil. Hold off on planting a flower bed until next spring, and try to select hardy flower that like partial shade (because of the large trees).
If there's no irrigation in the flower bed, you could easily add a couple soaker hoses under the mulch, or consider adding more sprinklers (assuming you have sprinklers in your yard).
deodorizers
I have bought a Iris and Peony bush to put in, and found that it is so dry that I can't even dig a hole... Also We have pretty big Maple and some evergreen planted in the flower bed, so there is alot of roots from the trees to make it impossible to dig holes.
Is there any methods that I can add back nutrients/moisture back to my flower bed, so I can plant my peonies/iris?? What kind of soil should I get?
How to add life back to my flower bed?? It is very dry!?
Improving the soil structure is one of the most important aspects of soil care, and adding organic matter is the most effective way to accomplish this. Organic matter also helps maintain the pH balance of the soil and adds nutrients.
Good topsoil is relatively dark in color, active with microorganisms, plant nutrients, and organic matter, and
usually has a pH between 5.5 and 7.5 (for non-acid loving plants).
To improve the soil structure, or tilth, add organic matter in the form of compost, cover crops, or yard waste. Yard waste such as shredded leaves, crop residues, straw, and similar materials should be tilled into the soil in the fall to allow decomposition through the fall and winter. At the same time, grass clippings, manure, or fertilizer should be incorporated to provide the extra nitrogen required to help break down the dry organic materials. This material can be composted and added to the garden in the spring if your prefer.
For soil that is primarily clay or sand, or that has a hard surface crust (water runs off), or is compacted, incorporate 2 to 3 inches of organic matter in the top few inches of soil and mulch liberally for several years. Also, plant cover crops each year until the soil is improved.
Raised beds or terraces are good solutions for improving extremely poor or shallow (bedrock close to surface or topsoil removed during construction) soil or soil with poor drainage. The site can also be graded, then covered with an 8 to 12 inch layer of topsoil - but guard against erosion. Poor drainage can also be helped by installing drainage tile.
Last but not least, mulch with bark or cocoa bean shells after you've planted. It keeps moisture in the soil, so you don't have to water as frequently and prevents weeds from growing. It also looks good!
Good luck!
Reply:I suggest you create a flower bed or several smaller flower beds elsewhere in your yard where tree roots will not be a problem.
Also, the plants you mentioned like sun. And maples produce a thick leaf crown and tend not to like other plants (except little maple trees) growing under them.
As far as the peony bush goes too, you might treat it more as a shrub or bush rather than a perennial. It does not have to be planted in a flower bed, per se. Plant it in a sunny place in your yard where you might want a shrub. Even after flowering, a peony bush looks nice.
You also have to water a flower bed, even if it is made up of largely perennials.
Peonies and iris tend to like rich, loamy soil.
Reply:It sounds as though your flower bed in the front is a bit crowded for more flowers, if you have room to plant more, it sounds as though you will need to add more soil[I like natures helper and maybe some mushroom compost, to the soil rent a tiller[small one for the area] and til in the soil, this will break up the old soil and help to incorporate the new soil. You could build a raised bed for the plants you want, you could also grow in containers. As far as you tulips go I would fig them up and replant them in some pots with better soil. With you having so many trees in your flower bed it is hard for the flowers to get the water and nutrients they need, the trees will drink up the moisture first, you do not want to cover the tree roots with dirt either, it is not good for the trees. Good luck to you, try some sedum, hens%26amp;chicks smaller plants that require dry soil you want have to water very often if you don't want containers or raised beds.
Reply:http://www.yaoflowers.com/ Congratulations Flowers and Plants:The YaoFlowers Congratulations Flowers and Potted Plants Collection includes all of the perfect ways to say, "Job well done!" Whether your loved ones have just graduated, bought their first home, had their first baby, or received a promotion, celebrate the moment and send flowers from our Congratulations Flowers Collection. When choosing a Congratulations Flower, consider whether your successful someone is more outgoing or more reserved, as a bouquet with lilies will suit the character of the former, while a bonsai may be a safer bet for one distinguished as the latter. Send Congratulations Flowers and PlantsYou can count on YaoFlowers to send your Congratulations Flowers and Plants as if you were delivering flowers yourself. Sent fresh from the fields, our Congratulations Flowers are guaranteed to last for at least 7 days or your money back. They'll come designed with exquisite care, budding and ready to bloom for lasting freshness. When you want to say, "Congrats," send Congratulations Flowers from YaoFlowers and let us help you make their special day even brighter. http://www.yaoflowers.com/congratulation...
Reply:Harry made some excellent comments. I'd only like to add that you could cover the soil in a good organic mulch, and water periodically. The much will break down and condition your soil. Hold off on planting a flower bed until next spring, and try to select hardy flower that like partial shade (because of the large trees).
If there's no irrigation in the flower bed, you could easily add a couple soaker hoses under the mulch, or consider adding more sprinklers (assuming you have sprinklers in your yard).
deodorizers
What flower seeds can I plant in the fall in Tennessee to bloom in the Spring?
I live in western Tennessee. Some people around here plant flower seeds in their flower beds in the fall that bloom in the early spring. The winters here are fairly mild, but we do get a few spells in the winter with below freezing temperatures. Can anyone suggest a few types of flowers that would do well planting under these conditions?
What flower seeds can I plant in the fall in Tennessee to bloom in the Spring?
Your early spring flowers need to be planted in the fall: Johnny Jump ups, larkspur, poppies, snapdragons, sweet peas, sweet alyssum, lobelia and pansies as well as flowering kale. These last two often show up as bedding plants to be put out within the next few weeks....end of Sept.....and then nurtured through the winter where they burst into color before anyone else wakes up. Remember they will need moisture through the winter and be prepared to give them a mulch when temps threaten to nose dive. Dry grass clippins are wonderful to have on hand........it if isn't bermudagrass. Otherwise, ground up leaves (use the lawn mower) may be enough to throw over the beds.
If you had a dedicated growing bed, like a cold frame, you could sow perennials now and then transplant them to the garden next spring.
Remember nature has been sowing her seeds now, so why not you? Goodness, I remember one year I didn't get my zinnias cut down and the next year I had a carpet of zinnia seedlings........what a mess!
Reply:You might consider planting wildflowers; the fall planting scheme works very well for them.
One of the best places you can get information on the types of flowers that will grow well in your area is the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center; it's located in Austin, Texas, but they have information on wildflowers for all 50 states.
Reply:canna bulbs or iris seeds Wish I had some way to send you some yellow iris seeds....I have over 2 lb.......
Reply:Walk around your neighborhood-- friends and acquaintances have spent flowers now-- see if you can get some of those dried flower heads-- take them home-- scratch your ground ( or what ever works for you)-- put that flower head between your hands and rub them apart-- sprinkle the seeds/remainder of the head and all.
Right now in zone 7 I have larkspur, echinacea, a small yellow from the echinacea group-- bachelor buttons-- all sorts of flowers drying-- most self sow.
good luck
Reply:Bulbs are your best bet for early spring blooms. Iris, tulips and hyacinth are beautiful. Pansies can be planted in the fall and will bloom through the winter and really show off in spring.
Reply:Perennial flowers are what you need and there are thousands of different types. Send for a free seed catalog and look through the perennials. Here are just two, but there are hundreds more free catalogs:
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
What flower seeds can I plant in the fall in Tennessee to bloom in the Spring?
Your early spring flowers need to be planted in the fall: Johnny Jump ups, larkspur, poppies, snapdragons, sweet peas, sweet alyssum, lobelia and pansies as well as flowering kale. These last two often show up as bedding plants to be put out within the next few weeks....end of Sept.....and then nurtured through the winter where they burst into color before anyone else wakes up. Remember they will need moisture through the winter and be prepared to give them a mulch when temps threaten to nose dive. Dry grass clippins are wonderful to have on hand........it if isn't bermudagrass. Otherwise, ground up leaves (use the lawn mower) may be enough to throw over the beds.
If you had a dedicated growing bed, like a cold frame, you could sow perennials now and then transplant them to the garden next spring.
Remember nature has been sowing her seeds now, so why not you? Goodness, I remember one year I didn't get my zinnias cut down and the next year I had a carpet of zinnia seedlings........what a mess!
Reply:You might consider planting wildflowers; the fall planting scheme works very well for them.
One of the best places you can get information on the types of flowers that will grow well in your area is the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center; it's located in Austin, Texas, but they have information on wildflowers for all 50 states.
Reply:canna bulbs or iris seeds Wish I had some way to send you some yellow iris seeds....I have over 2 lb.......
Reply:Walk around your neighborhood-- friends and acquaintances have spent flowers now-- see if you can get some of those dried flower heads-- take them home-- scratch your ground ( or what ever works for you)-- put that flower head between your hands and rub them apart-- sprinkle the seeds/remainder of the head and all.
Right now in zone 7 I have larkspur, echinacea, a small yellow from the echinacea group-- bachelor buttons-- all sorts of flowers drying-- most self sow.
good luck
Reply:Bulbs are your best bet for early spring blooms. Iris, tulips and hyacinth are beautiful. Pansies can be planted in the fall and will bloom through the winter and really show off in spring.
Reply:Perennial flowers are what you need and there are thousands of different types. Send for a free seed catalog and look through the perennials. Here are just two, but there are hundreds more free catalogs:
http://www.parkseed.com
http://www.burpee.com
HOW do you edge a flower bed without an edger?
please help. I'm going home in 2 hours to edge my flower bed, but i dont have and edger,
HOW do you edge a flower bed without an edger?
Scissors? Hoe? Actually, in the 1940s my grandmother cut all the grass in the teeny little plot of yard in from of her home with scissors!
Reply:you have a weed whip dont you? turn it on its side, you will go threw some line but it works. if it is really bad you could use a flat shovel the first time then keep it neat with your whip.
Reply:I use a hand saw to do mine.
Reply:you can use a spay and dig a trench not real big it will look nice make sure you get all the weeds out and the roots lay plastic and mulch it will be fine
Reply:you can do it by hand with a good serrated knife and some garden cutter.. wear good garden gloves..you'll be working on your knees so make sure you wear knee pad or place some kind of cushion. of course it will be time consuming depending how big is your flower bed but the results will be just as beautiful and priceless!
hope you will turn this experience into great therapy!
HOW do you edge a flower bed without an edger?
Scissors? Hoe? Actually, in the 1940s my grandmother cut all the grass in the teeny little plot of yard in from of her home with scissors!
Reply:you have a weed whip dont you? turn it on its side, you will go threw some line but it works. if it is really bad you could use a flat shovel the first time then keep it neat with your whip.
Reply:I use a hand saw to do mine.
Reply:you can use a spay and dig a trench not real big it will look nice make sure you get all the weeds out and the roots lay plastic and mulch it will be fine
Reply:you can do it by hand with a good serrated knife and some garden cutter.. wear good garden gloves..you'll be working on your knees so make sure you wear knee pad or place some kind of cushion. of course it will be time consuming depending how big is your flower bed but the results will be just as beautiful and priceless!
hope you will turn this experience into great therapy!
DO anyone know how to get rid of ants .I have ants making a home in my flower bed .?
I want to get the ants out of the flower bed but i do not want to kill the flowers what should i do?
DO anyone know how to get rid of ants .I have ants making a home in my flower bed .?
There are a couple of products made for gardens to rid them of pesky insects... You can get them in liquid or solid.
A "home remedy" for ants is to use borax, and mix it with a little something...(food, peanut butter, for instance).. the ants carry it back to the nest, and it kills the queen.
Check the garden department of your local department, or hardware store.
Reply:call the extermainator
Reply:call a pest control company to come out because if you just let them stay in your flower bed soon they will move into your house
Reply:Baiting or spraying for the ants is a good idea, but it is not enough. You probably have aphids chewing on your plants. They excrete a sweet substance (commonly known as 'honey dew'). Don't be mistaken. The honey dew is their waste product, but the ants love it. So, if you're going to treat for the ants, don't forget to treat for the aphids as well. If you don't, then you may eliminate this colony of ants, but another colony will move right in.
Reply:Plant Pansies in your flowerbed. Ants are supposed to hate them. Planting Pansies around the outside of your house is used to keep them out of your house.
Reply:easy get some ant powder from your local garden centre and spray it on your soil it won't halm the plants
DO anyone know how to get rid of ants .I have ants making a home in my flower bed .?
There are a couple of products made for gardens to rid them of pesky insects... You can get them in liquid or solid.
A "home remedy" for ants is to use borax, and mix it with a little something...(food, peanut butter, for instance).. the ants carry it back to the nest, and it kills the queen.
Check the garden department of your local department, or hardware store.
Reply:call the extermainator
Reply:call a pest control company to come out because if you just let them stay in your flower bed soon they will move into your house
Reply:Baiting or spraying for the ants is a good idea, but it is not enough. You probably have aphids chewing on your plants. They excrete a sweet substance (commonly known as 'honey dew'). Don't be mistaken. The honey dew is their waste product, but the ants love it. So, if you're going to treat for the ants, don't forget to treat for the aphids as well. If you don't, then you may eliminate this colony of ants, but another colony will move right in.
Reply:Plant Pansies in your flowerbed. Ants are supposed to hate them. Planting Pansies around the outside of your house is used to keep them out of your house.
Reply:easy get some ant powder from your local garden centre and spray it on your soil it won't halm the plants
Calculating stone needed for flower bed border?
Is there a trick or calculation I can use to figure out how much stone I'll need for the border of a flower bed?
Calculating stone needed for flower bed border?
Since you didn't give any idea what size of area you want to cover or the depth you want to cover, I can't calculate for you.
Most landscaping products are sold bulk by the cubic yard (cu yd). You've got to figure out how many square feet of ground you want to cover, and the depth you want the stone to be, and find out how many cu yds you'll need to buy.
A cu yd is 36" x 36" x 36", or 3' x 3' x 3', so a cu yd will cover 324 sq ft to a depth of 1".
1 cu yd = 3 ft x 3 ft x 36 = 324 sq ft at 1" depth.
Then just divide 324 sq ft by the number of inches you want as the depth. So if you want the stone to cover 2" deep, divide 324 by 2.
1 cu yd = 324 sq ft at 1" depth / 2 = 162 sq ft at 2" depth
For example, suppose you wanted to create a border 2 ft wide by 114 feet long, and you wanted the stone to be a depth of 2".
area to cover = 2 ft x 114 ft = 228 sq ft
Then divide your area to cover by the number of square feet coverage you get from a cubic yard at the depth you want.
228 sq ft / 162 sq ft at 2" depth = 1.41 cu yds
If you ordered 1.5 cu yds of stone, you'd have plenty.
If you're buying stones by the bag, the bag will state how many cu yds or how many cu ft are in the bag.
If you need to calculate the number of cu ft you need, just multiply the number of cu yds you calculated by 27 because there are 27 cu ft in a cu yd. (3ft x 3ft x 3ft = 27 cu ft)
So for our example,
1.41 cu yds x 27 cu ft/cu yd = 38.07 cu ft of rock needed
Then just divide by the number of cu ft in a bag to determine the number of bags needed.
If you're confused, just give me the dimensions of the area you want to cover and the depth you want the stone to be (perhaps by adding an edit to your question) and I can show you how I calculated the answer using your numbers.
Reply:Measure the size of your border in feet %26amp; then buy the amount of stone you need going by how much stone is in each bag. The bag should tell how many feet/yards it'll cover.
Reply:Here are the caculations you will need depending on how it is sold...........
cubic foot= Length X width of border, then divide by 15.
sq. foot= Length x width of border, then divide by 9
cubic yard= length x width of border, then divide by 27
internet explorer 7
Calculating stone needed for flower bed border?
Since you didn't give any idea what size of area you want to cover or the depth you want to cover, I can't calculate for you.
Most landscaping products are sold bulk by the cubic yard (cu yd). You've got to figure out how many square feet of ground you want to cover, and the depth you want the stone to be, and find out how many cu yds you'll need to buy.
A cu yd is 36" x 36" x 36", or 3' x 3' x 3', so a cu yd will cover 324 sq ft to a depth of 1".
1 cu yd = 3 ft x 3 ft x 36 = 324 sq ft at 1" depth.
Then just divide 324 sq ft by the number of inches you want as the depth. So if you want the stone to cover 2" deep, divide 324 by 2.
1 cu yd = 324 sq ft at 1" depth / 2 = 162 sq ft at 2" depth
For example, suppose you wanted to create a border 2 ft wide by 114 feet long, and you wanted the stone to be a depth of 2".
area to cover = 2 ft x 114 ft = 228 sq ft
Then divide your area to cover by the number of square feet coverage you get from a cubic yard at the depth you want.
228 sq ft / 162 sq ft at 2" depth = 1.41 cu yds
If you ordered 1.5 cu yds of stone, you'd have plenty.
If you're buying stones by the bag, the bag will state how many cu yds or how many cu ft are in the bag.
If you need to calculate the number of cu ft you need, just multiply the number of cu yds you calculated by 27 because there are 27 cu ft in a cu yd. (3ft x 3ft x 3ft = 27 cu ft)
So for our example,
1.41 cu yds x 27 cu ft/cu yd = 38.07 cu ft of rock needed
Then just divide by the number of cu ft in a bag to determine the number of bags needed.
If you're confused, just give me the dimensions of the area you want to cover and the depth you want the stone to be (perhaps by adding an edit to your question) and I can show you how I calculated the answer using your numbers.
Reply:Measure the size of your border in feet %26amp; then buy the amount of stone you need going by how much stone is in each bag. The bag should tell how many feet/yards it'll cover.
Reply:Here are the caculations you will need depending on how it is sold...........
cubic foot= Length X width of border, then divide by 15.
sq. foot= Length x width of border, then divide by 9
cubic yard= length x width of border, then divide by 27
internet explorer 7
How to pour concrete edging around flower beds?
Careful -- the new concrete will leach chemicals into the soil around it for up to 1 year, chemicals which kill most plants. I would suggest not doing this until you've made peace that the closest plants will die.
How to pour concrete edging around flower beds?
Dig a moat like hole around your flower bed. Double the width to accommodate 2 - 2x4's, line the edges with the wood, and pour cement mixture in the middle to the height you want around the bed. When it is dry remove the boards.
Reply:Poured? Like edging? I'd advise just buying preformed cement pieces.
How to pour concrete edging around flower beds?
Dig a moat like hole around your flower bed. Double the width to accommodate 2 - 2x4's, line the edges with the wood, and pour cement mixture in the middle to the height you want around the bed. When it is dry remove the boards.
Reply:Poured? Like edging? I'd advise just buying preformed cement pieces.
Are they bad for just your lawn or flower gardens too?i am putting in a new bed,side of my lawn, & found grubs
I tilled a corner part of my lawn to put ina new flower bed, and I found grubs. Are they going to be bad for my plants too or just grass? I am new at this if you can't tell. :)
Thanks for your help.
Are they bad for just your lawn or flower gardens too?i am putting in a new bed,side of my lawn, %26amp; found grubs
Your grass was doing fine before you found that it had grubs. In spite of all the talk, grubs do very little damage to either lawns or plants. I wouldn't get carried away trying to deal with a problem that you don't really have.
Reply:Grubs are bad for flowers and grass. They eat the roots from the bottom up. You need to treat the lawn and the flowerbed for these destructive little critters. Beneficial nematodes will take care of them, and any other predatory insect.
http://www.marchbiological.com/L/benefic...
Reply:They will literaly tear a lawn or garden up after awhile..I use spectracide triazicide to control mine..At the beginning of spring I use the bottle that selfs dispenses and attaches to a water hose..then a week later I back that up with the spectracide granuals...I have had them completely destroy my garden before..at the begiining of spring you may not notice any damage ..but when it even gets warmer..itcan or will destroy the garden or lawn..These products are available at lowes,home depot, or walmart
Thanks for your help.
Are they bad for just your lawn or flower gardens too?i am putting in a new bed,side of my lawn, %26amp; found grubs
Your grass was doing fine before you found that it had grubs. In spite of all the talk, grubs do very little damage to either lawns or plants. I wouldn't get carried away trying to deal with a problem that you don't really have.
Reply:Grubs are bad for flowers and grass. They eat the roots from the bottom up. You need to treat the lawn and the flowerbed for these destructive little critters. Beneficial nematodes will take care of them, and any other predatory insect.
http://www.marchbiological.com/L/benefic...
Reply:They will literaly tear a lawn or garden up after awhile..I use spectracide triazicide to control mine..At the beginning of spring I use the bottle that selfs dispenses and attaches to a water hose..then a week later I back that up with the spectracide granuals...I have had them completely destroy my garden before..at the begiining of spring you may not notice any damage ..but when it even gets warmer..itcan or will destroy the garden or lawn..These products are available at lowes,home depot, or walmart
How can I improve my flower bed?
I recently dug up a 9 by 4 foot section of a very weedy lawn to plant flowers in. I dug rather deep to remove as many weed and grass roots as possible, and then turned the soil and seeded with a wildflower mix. Should I try to continue to aerate? I have seedlings already coming up (seeded two weeks ago), and I worry about harming them. Is there a good way to maintain a healthy bed?
How can I improve my flower bed?
Starting a new bed is always exciting but the problems lies in the soil. Always start with a good healthy soil before planting anything. I use the layering method or lasagna gardening. I turn the clumps of sod and grass, cover with a good layer of newspaper. Wet this down and then layer on 4 to 6 inches of each of the following, sawdust, peat moss, wood ash, leaf compost or dried and mulched (with the mower) leaves, a layer of compost and a cover of mulch over the top. Water the whole thing when done. What you are creating is sort of a compost pile, but you will then plant in it. I usually let my new beds go over the winter with the above combo and in the spring, fork it around and add some compost. You will not only have healthy soil, but the ground will be easier to dig in and plant in. Weeds will be easier to pull and you plant roots will love it. Keep adding mulch over the top. This keeps the roots of the plants from drying out and you will have to water less. There is a book called Lasagna Gardening with all this great info in it. I have been using this method forever and have great soil and great plants! Good luck.
was this the best answer???
Reply:Seed beds need surface moisture daily. Once the seedlings become established (second and third set of mature leaves) you can decrease surface watering, deep water as needed. Don't pull anything until you identify it. Seedlings can easily and successfully be transplanted when thinning. Miraclegro is super.
congrats on your new kids.
Reply:Honestly I can't say I have had good luck with wild flowers at all. I always till the soil before I planted the wild flowers too.
I tried some several times and it always grows up in weeds.
The one flowerbed I have I put in some hostas, iris, sedum, and some other perennials.
I also put down the fabric to prevent weeds from growing and put down mulch.
Reply:Starting a new bed is always exciting but the problems lies in the soil. Always start with a good healthy soil before planting anything. I use the layering method or lasagna gardening. I turn the clumps of sod and grass, cover with a good layer of newspaper. Wet this down and then layer on 4 to 6 inches of each of the following, sawdust, peat moss, wood ash, leaf compost or dried and mulched (with the mower) leaves, a layer of compost and a cover of mulch over the top. Water the whole thing when done. What you are creating is sort of a compost pile, but you will then plant in it. I usually let my new beds go over the winter with the above combo and in the spring, fork it around and add some compost. You will not only have healthy soil, but the ground will be easier to dig in and plant in. Weeds will be easier to pull and you plant roots will love it. Keep adding mulch over the top. This keeps the roots of the plants from drying out and you will have to water less. There is a book called Lasagna Gardening with all this great info in it. I have been using this method forever and have great soil and great plants! Good luck.
How can I improve my flower bed?
Starting a new bed is always exciting but the problems lies in the soil. Always start with a good healthy soil before planting anything. I use the layering method or lasagna gardening. I turn the clumps of sod and grass, cover with a good layer of newspaper. Wet this down and then layer on 4 to 6 inches of each of the following, sawdust, peat moss, wood ash, leaf compost or dried and mulched (with the mower) leaves, a layer of compost and a cover of mulch over the top. Water the whole thing when done. What you are creating is sort of a compost pile, but you will then plant in it. I usually let my new beds go over the winter with the above combo and in the spring, fork it around and add some compost. You will not only have healthy soil, but the ground will be easier to dig in and plant in. Weeds will be easier to pull and you plant roots will love it. Keep adding mulch over the top. This keeps the roots of the plants from drying out and you will have to water less. There is a book called Lasagna Gardening with all this great info in it. I have been using this method forever and have great soil and great plants! Good luck.
was this the best answer???
Reply:Seed beds need surface moisture daily. Once the seedlings become established (second and third set of mature leaves) you can decrease surface watering, deep water as needed. Don't pull anything until you identify it. Seedlings can easily and successfully be transplanted when thinning. Miraclegro is super.
congrats on your new kids.
Reply:Honestly I can't say I have had good luck with wild flowers at all. I always till the soil before I planted the wild flowers too.
I tried some several times and it always grows up in weeds.
The one flowerbed I have I put in some hostas, iris, sedum, and some other perennials.
I also put down the fabric to prevent weeds from growing and put down mulch.
Reply:Starting a new bed is always exciting but the problems lies in the soil. Always start with a good healthy soil before planting anything. I use the layering method or lasagna gardening. I turn the clumps of sod and grass, cover with a good layer of newspaper. Wet this down and then layer on 4 to 6 inches of each of the following, sawdust, peat moss, wood ash, leaf compost or dried and mulched (with the mower) leaves, a layer of compost and a cover of mulch over the top. Water the whole thing when done. What you are creating is sort of a compost pile, but you will then plant in it. I usually let my new beds go over the winter with the above combo and in the spring, fork it around and add some compost. You will not only have healthy soil, but the ground will be easier to dig in and plant in. Weeds will be easier to pull and you plant roots will love it. Keep adding mulch over the top. This keeps the roots of the plants from drying out and you will have to water less. There is a book called Lasagna Gardening with all this great info in it. I have been using this method forever and have great soil and great plants! Good luck.
Anyone tried the roll and grow flower bed liners?
i was looking to buy some of the roll and grow flower bed liners and want to know if anyone had success with this.does it work and are the flowers presentable?
Anyone tried the roll and grow flower bed liners?
they will work if done right,, most people over water,, but,, they are usually made up of very cheap "dime a million" type flowers....try the cans of multiple flowers!! just sprinkle them on from the can after you have tilled an area,, these usually have more abundant variety of flowers and better seed germination!!!
Reply:I bought one last year and I did not get anything to grow. It just got wet and made a mess. Save your money. Buy some potting soil and plant your own Flowers outside. You will probably have better luck.
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Anyone tried the roll and grow flower bed liners?
they will work if done right,, most people over water,, but,, they are usually made up of very cheap "dime a million" type flowers....try the cans of multiple flowers!! just sprinkle them on from the can after you have tilled an area,, these usually have more abundant variety of flowers and better seed germination!!!
Reply:I bought one last year and I did not get anything to grow. It just got wet and made a mess. Save your money. Buy some potting soil and plant your own Flowers outside. You will probably have better luck.
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How do you kill poison ivy or poison oak from your flower bed withought getting it all over you?
I am highly allergic. I know this for a fact because I am all itchy and swollen now because I cleaned out poison oak from my flower bed. I can't get near it. Please help.
How do you kill poison ivy or poison oak from your flower bed withought getting it all over you?
Be sure you wear full body armor.. gloves, long sleeves, long pants with socks. You can pull it as long as you do not let the leaves touch your skin.
DO NOT BURN IT! The poison can be carried in the smoke and get in your nose, eyes, mouth and lungs.
Poison ivy/oak/sumac makes most folks itch. Calamine lotion helps - my family is highly allergic ('cept me) in that if they'd touched it - they'd be down for the count, covered in it.
Be sure not to touch the clothing you wore when pulling it, they should go right in the washer. Try not to scratch and don't touch your eyes.
Benedryl should help with the itch as well if you have some on hand.
Roundup does make a product specifically for "woody" plants, like poison ivy - look for it.
Reply:Barter with someone who's not allergic, For example, I pull up poison ivy for my neighbor, and he plows my driveway.
Reply:Leather gloves, pull it out, put it in a garbage bag, get help if you need it. If you try to kill it it will kill your flowers too.
Reply:Round-up if you dont want to mix the solution you can get a pre-mixed solution at your local garden center, just spray on the leaves of the plant you want to kill and be careful not to get any on other plants because it kills what it is applied to..
Reply:set it om fire!!
Reply:thay make a spray at your local garden mart
Reply:TAKE A SPRAY BOTTLE WITH CLOROX IN IT AND SPRAY THE PLANT.IT WILL NOT HURT THE OTHER PLANTS.
How do you kill poison ivy or poison oak from your flower bed withought getting it all over you?
Be sure you wear full body armor.. gloves, long sleeves, long pants with socks. You can pull it as long as you do not let the leaves touch your skin.
DO NOT BURN IT! The poison can be carried in the smoke and get in your nose, eyes, mouth and lungs.
Poison ivy/oak/sumac makes most folks itch. Calamine lotion helps - my family is highly allergic ('cept me) in that if they'd touched it - they'd be down for the count, covered in it.
Be sure not to touch the clothing you wore when pulling it, they should go right in the washer. Try not to scratch and don't touch your eyes.
Benedryl should help with the itch as well if you have some on hand.
Roundup does make a product specifically for "woody" plants, like poison ivy - look for it.
Reply:Barter with someone who's not allergic, For example, I pull up poison ivy for my neighbor, and he plows my driveway.
Reply:Leather gloves, pull it out, put it in a garbage bag, get help if you need it. If you try to kill it it will kill your flowers too.
Reply:Round-up if you dont want to mix the solution you can get a pre-mixed solution at your local garden center, just spray on the leaves of the plant you want to kill and be careful not to get any on other plants because it kills what it is applied to..
Reply:set it om fire!!
Reply:thay make a spray at your local garden mart
Reply:TAKE A SPRAY BOTTLE WITH CLOROX IN IT AND SPRAY THE PLANT.IT WILL NOT HURT THE OTHER PLANTS.
Is there anything I can put in my flower beds to keep my Lab from digging in them ?
Dogs don't like redwood bark or heavy gravel. (golfball size)..both hurt their feet..Poultry wire, spread down with cut outs for the plants works well, too..
You might try a motion-activated sprinkler that sprays with full garden hose pressure. It's called the Scarecrow. You will find it in your garden supply under diferent brand names..about $40-60
Jerry Baker, "America's Master Gardener," in his book Green Grass Magic, gives a recipe for his "Dog-B-Gone Tonic" which contains:
2 cloves garlic
2 small onions
1 jalapeno pepper
1 T. cayenne pepper
1 T. Tabasco sauce
1 T. chili powder
1 T. liquid dish soap
1 qt. warm water
Chop up the garlic and onions and combine all ingredients. Let it sit for 24 hours, strain through cheesecloth, and then sprinkle on the areas that you want dogs to keep away from.
Is there anything I can put in my flower beds to keep my Lab from digging in them ?
MOTH BALLS ARE GOOD TO KEEP PETS AWAY.
Reply:Put the dog's own poop in the flower beds. You get fertilizer and the dog usually does not want to dig in its own poop. Or set up a fence (like with chicken wire) so your dog can't get access to your flower beds.
Reply:I would recommend to instead find something else to stimulate your Lab's mind, being safer then putting something in the flower beds. Give your Lab more toys and attention, and maybe set up a dig area for her, where you bury treats and toys for her to find. When she digs in it, praise her.
Reply:Look at chetco's answer as I have used both those methods with great success. In the winter I often shovel a path across the grass in my yard as a shortcut to the driveway. Every cat and dog for 30 miles thinks this is a litter box made especially for them. So I sprinkle hot red pepper over the grass and they run for the hills. A bulk store has tons of ground pepper cheap. If it gets wet or rains or anything you have to reapply, but unlike chicken wire or water, they learn after a couple sniffs of pepper to never dig or (poop) there again.
Reply:There are several commercial products like SHOOO! that you spray about the garden and it discourages dogs from messing and digging in the garden. You might also try mothballs or mothball flakes sprinkled liberally over the ground, this also keeps squirrels and rabbits away.
You might try a motion-activated sprinkler that sprays with full garden hose pressure. It's called the Scarecrow. You will find it in your garden supply under diferent brand names..about $40-60
Jerry Baker, "America's Master Gardener," in his book Green Grass Magic, gives a recipe for his "Dog-B-Gone Tonic" which contains:
2 cloves garlic
2 small onions
1 jalapeno pepper
1 T. cayenne pepper
1 T. Tabasco sauce
1 T. chili powder
1 T. liquid dish soap
1 qt. warm water
Chop up the garlic and onions and combine all ingredients. Let it sit for 24 hours, strain through cheesecloth, and then sprinkle on the areas that you want dogs to keep away from.
Is there anything I can put in my flower beds to keep my Lab from digging in them ?
MOTH BALLS ARE GOOD TO KEEP PETS AWAY.
Reply:Put the dog's own poop in the flower beds. You get fertilizer and the dog usually does not want to dig in its own poop. Or set up a fence (like with chicken wire) so your dog can't get access to your flower beds.
Reply:I would recommend to instead find something else to stimulate your Lab's mind, being safer then putting something in the flower beds. Give your Lab more toys and attention, and maybe set up a dig area for her, where you bury treats and toys for her to find. When she digs in it, praise her.
Reply:Look at chetco's answer as I have used both those methods with great success. In the winter I often shovel a path across the grass in my yard as a shortcut to the driveway. Every cat and dog for 30 miles thinks this is a litter box made especially for them. So I sprinkle hot red pepper over the grass and they run for the hills. A bulk store has tons of ground pepper cheap. If it gets wet or rains or anything you have to reapply, but unlike chicken wire or water, they learn after a couple sniffs of pepper to never dig or (poop) there again.
Reply:There are several commercial products like SHOOO! that you spray about the garden and it discourages dogs from messing and digging in the garden. You might also try mothballs or mothball flakes sprinkled liberally over the ground, this also keeps squirrels and rabbits away.
What is the best flowers for a small flower bed that require little maintenance?
i want to plant some flowers in a small flowerbed on my patio that requires little maintenance, maybe some type of vine that grows fast and have pretty blooms, also part of the bed is in the shade and the other half gets sunshine, so maybe a plant that can grow anywhere.i would like something that do not grow tall someone suggested a ice plant, but i have not heard of that.
What is the best flowers for a small flower bed that require little maintenance?
what about peautinas
Reply:Clematis is a beautiful vine that likes to have its feet in the shade and its face in the sun. Sounds perfect for your patio. Try to buy a two year old specimen, for blooms the first year and good cover. Jackmanii is a very reliable type of clematis that does well in most of the U.S. I am not sure where you are located.
If your bed is really small, think of it as a big window box, and dress it with plenty of thrillers (tall accents), fillers (light and airy plants in between your more architectural plants) and spillers (things that tumble over the sides, such as ivy, rock cress, sedum groundovers, etc. Put a trellis at the back so your clematis will have something to climb on, creating a nice backdrop for it all. Have fun and enjoy your garden.
Reply:I love coleus...you can get them at any home depot/lowes...they are more decorative plants (diff. gorgeous, colorful leaves) but they are very low maintenance and I just love the way they look...
Good luck!
Reply:Marigolds and petunias and impatients.
Reply:!!!!!!!crotons...u need no maintanence to grow crotons in tha garden
What is the best flowers for a small flower bed that require little maintenance?
what about peautinas
Reply:Clematis is a beautiful vine that likes to have its feet in the shade and its face in the sun. Sounds perfect for your patio. Try to buy a two year old specimen, for blooms the first year and good cover. Jackmanii is a very reliable type of clematis that does well in most of the U.S. I am not sure where you are located.
If your bed is really small, think of it as a big window box, and dress it with plenty of thrillers (tall accents), fillers (light and airy plants in between your more architectural plants) and spillers (things that tumble over the sides, such as ivy, rock cress, sedum groundovers, etc. Put a trellis at the back so your clematis will have something to climb on, creating a nice backdrop for it all. Have fun and enjoy your garden.
Reply:I love coleus...you can get them at any home depot/lowes...they are more decorative plants (diff. gorgeous, colorful leaves) but they are very low maintenance and I just love the way they look...
Good luck!
Reply:Marigolds and petunias and impatients.
Reply:!!!!!!!crotons...u need no maintanence to grow crotons in tha garden
How do I keep our older adopted Labador dog out of my newly planted flower bed?
She wants to lay on my newly dug soft dirt, we live in the country, where there is no leash law, so she is free to roam, she has acres and acres to lay somewhere else, but chooses not to dig her own area, and wants to use my new flower bed. Is there anything like crushed red pepper that would annoy her and make her not want to lay on my new baby annuals? I would like to keep whatever I use natural, with no chemicals of course.
Thanks for any info!
How do I keep our older adopted Labador dog out of my newly planted flower bed?
You can sprinkle moth balls in between the plants. I would imagine there are some chemicals, but nothing that hurts plants or dogs, and dogs don't like the smell. I usually crush them up and then sprinkle around areas I've just planted. Keeps my dogs from getting into them, and I usually only have to do it once each spring and they stay out of the flower beds until the next spring. I'm out in the country too, so I normally let mine out to roam and right now I have 11 dogs - 7 are german shepherd puppies and even the puppies stay out of the beds.
Reply:just put up a wire fence that should keep it out. she probably goes there for the soft moist cool earth. its what my dog does. if you dig another bed and use the fence she may use the other bed and you can take the fence down. the trick is to water the other bed to cool down the soil. good luck!!
Reply:I think I would either put a invisible fence there, or make another place with nice dirt so she lays there. Or when you see her go in the plants tell her "NO!" in a firm voice. and pull her by her collar out.
Reply:There's a plant called "the Piss off Plant" that you can get from specialty plant catalogs, I've only seen it once at www.richters.com it keeps dogs, cats %26amp; most other mammals out of beds where it's planted. You'd need one every three feet or so. Totally natural, no chemicals people like the smell where more sensitive noses like dogs hate it.
Reply:Try sprinkling some coyote urine around the bed.
Reply:Put up wire as a fencing around the flower bed.
Reply:Ever heard of a MARVELOUS invention called a FENCE????
duh...
business loan
Thanks for any info!
How do I keep our older adopted Labador dog out of my newly planted flower bed?
You can sprinkle moth balls in between the plants. I would imagine there are some chemicals, but nothing that hurts plants or dogs, and dogs don't like the smell. I usually crush them up and then sprinkle around areas I've just planted. Keeps my dogs from getting into them, and I usually only have to do it once each spring and they stay out of the flower beds until the next spring. I'm out in the country too, so I normally let mine out to roam and right now I have 11 dogs - 7 are german shepherd puppies and even the puppies stay out of the beds.
Reply:just put up a wire fence that should keep it out. she probably goes there for the soft moist cool earth. its what my dog does. if you dig another bed and use the fence she may use the other bed and you can take the fence down. the trick is to water the other bed to cool down the soil. good luck!!
Reply:I think I would either put a invisible fence there, or make another place with nice dirt so she lays there. Or when you see her go in the plants tell her "NO!" in a firm voice. and pull her by her collar out.
Reply:There's a plant called "the Piss off Plant" that you can get from specialty plant catalogs, I've only seen it once at www.richters.com it keeps dogs, cats %26amp; most other mammals out of beds where it's planted. You'd need one every three feet or so. Totally natural, no chemicals people like the smell where more sensitive noses like dogs hate it.
Reply:Try sprinkling some coyote urine around the bed.
Reply:Put up wire as a fencing around the flower bed.
Reply:Ever heard of a MARVELOUS invention called a FENCE????
duh...
business loan
Can anyone offer advice on how to keep stray cats out of a flower bed?
my bed does not contain flowers, but decorative shrubs and bushes. everyday i clean up cat mess and the next day it is right back in the same spot! I do not want to harm the animals i just want them out of my flower bed any humane suggestions?? thanks
Can anyone offer advice on how to keep stray cats out of a flower bed?
This modern take on the trusty scarecrow could bring some relief.
The ScareCrow is basically a sprinkler with a built-in motion detector that connects to a garden hose and can be set up anywhere on your property you want protected from the wildlife. When the motion sensor detects an animal it will fire a startling burst of water back and forth for a few seconds scaring off the intruder and hopefully convinces them to never return. The ScareCrow uses only about 2-3 cups of water per deterrence and will protect and cover an area of about 1200 sq. ft. It operates for up to 6 months on a single 9-volt battery and is currently available for about $80.
Reply:Use a reward and deter approach. In one corner of the property, plant lots of catnip to encourage cats to leave the rest of the garden along and give them a place to mark as their territory. In the "no-go" zones, scatter lots of thorny branches: Find a monkey puzzle tree or a (related) bunya-bunya tree, and scatter their branches thickly around the no go areas. Verythorny rose branches will do the job too. But don't use rose branches near rose bushes, as it may encourage disease near the roses (wont affect other shrubs though).
Reply:I was going to suggest moth balls just as someone else did. My mom used to use them with our cat for the indoor plants (not the brightest cat on the planet - preferred plant pots over his litter box...). anyway, that did work for the indoor plants. Vinegar is also a deterrent to cats. Perhaps you could get some rubber tubing, cut it in half and surround your garden with it (at least in the area that the cat defecates). That might be enough to deter the neighbours' cat.
Cheers! Good luck!
EDIT - I just read about that scarecrow thing - sounds interesting! I would definitely try that if the other cheaper solutions don't work!
Reply:i have 5 cats myself. apparently using a big plastic bottle half filled with water scares them away. it doesnt. cats sniff before they do anything, so using lemon or like a tangy smelling substance in or around ur beds should deter them. nothing except a dog will 'scare' cats away, they are far more confident and curious than ppl think. definately do not feed them or leave anything out for them to eat/drink near the beds as this will just encourage them to come.
Reply:You will have to stake out the flower bed. When kitty get near, turn on the sprinkler. This is also a good time to get out the ol' Supersoaker.
Visit PetSmart and see what kind of cat repellant they carry. Not as fun as soaking a cat, but easier on your free time.
Reply:AMONIA WORKS .. will act as a repellent and cats will hate it... used it outdoors near garden in lil butter container, and the cats keep trying to knock it over
D.
Reply:yes sprinkel pepper in the flower beds
hope it helps cos i had the same problem and it worked for me :)
Reply:moth balls sometimes do the trick! just spread some around the area and see if that takes care of the problem! good luck!
Reply:A 12 guage works good. Naw...just kidding. I love animals, they are delicious!
Reply:i am not sure if it will work for you but it works for me , try putting vinegar around the bed..
Can anyone offer advice on how to keep stray cats out of a flower bed?
This modern take on the trusty scarecrow could bring some relief.
The ScareCrow is basically a sprinkler with a built-in motion detector that connects to a garden hose and can be set up anywhere on your property you want protected from the wildlife. When the motion sensor detects an animal it will fire a startling burst of water back and forth for a few seconds scaring off the intruder and hopefully convinces them to never return. The ScareCrow uses only about 2-3 cups of water per deterrence and will protect and cover an area of about 1200 sq. ft. It operates for up to 6 months on a single 9-volt battery and is currently available for about $80.
Reply:Use a reward and deter approach. In one corner of the property, plant lots of catnip to encourage cats to leave the rest of the garden along and give them a place to mark as their territory. In the "no-go" zones, scatter lots of thorny branches: Find a monkey puzzle tree or a (related) bunya-bunya tree, and scatter their branches thickly around the no go areas. Verythorny rose branches will do the job too. But don't use rose branches near rose bushes, as it may encourage disease near the roses (wont affect other shrubs though).
Reply:I was going to suggest moth balls just as someone else did. My mom used to use them with our cat for the indoor plants (not the brightest cat on the planet - preferred plant pots over his litter box...). anyway, that did work for the indoor plants. Vinegar is also a deterrent to cats. Perhaps you could get some rubber tubing, cut it in half and surround your garden with it (at least in the area that the cat defecates). That might be enough to deter the neighbours' cat.
Cheers! Good luck!
EDIT - I just read about that scarecrow thing - sounds interesting! I would definitely try that if the other cheaper solutions don't work!
Reply:i have 5 cats myself. apparently using a big plastic bottle half filled with water scares them away. it doesnt. cats sniff before they do anything, so using lemon or like a tangy smelling substance in or around ur beds should deter them. nothing except a dog will 'scare' cats away, they are far more confident and curious than ppl think. definately do not feed them or leave anything out for them to eat/drink near the beds as this will just encourage them to come.
Reply:You will have to stake out the flower bed. When kitty get near, turn on the sprinkler. This is also a good time to get out the ol' Supersoaker.
Visit PetSmart and see what kind of cat repellant they carry. Not as fun as soaking a cat, but easier on your free time.
Reply:AMONIA WORKS .. will act as a repellent and cats will hate it... used it outdoors near garden in lil butter container, and the cats keep trying to knock it over
D.
Reply:yes sprinkel pepper in the flower beds
hope it helps cos i had the same problem and it worked for me :)
Reply:moth balls sometimes do the trick! just spread some around the area and see if that takes care of the problem! good luck!
Reply:A 12 guage works good. Naw...just kidding. I love animals, they are delicious!
Reply:i am not sure if it will work for you but it works for me , try putting vinegar around the bed..
Help me keep my dog out of my flower bed?
I've got a boxer pup and he's digging in our flower bed when we let him out. He's also eaten our crape bush. We've tried watching and getting on to him, spraying him in bum with water, and recently spread some "critter ridder" stuff-- that's basically peppers (the dog just licked it and ate some more mulch). Is there anything short of the underground electric fence that anyone knows of to stop him from eating my wife's flowers?
Help me keep my dog out of my flower bed?
Bury his feces throughout the flower bed. He will not dig wherever he smells his own poop. Your wife's flowers will benefit also from this method. Guaranteed!
Reply:Just get sumthing to put in the ground then put a leash on him and tie the leash to the thing in the ground. if you cant teach him how to be a cat and to use a litter box.
Reply:at any pet store they sell some spray to put over your flowers and stuff like that to keep dogs off.
dogs hate it. so i recommend that, if you want your puppy to stop =)
Reply:You could put garlic powder and Cyanne pepper powder on the flowers and the ground. Its also good for rabbit repellent also.
they dont like the taste or smell of the spices
Reply:try hiding filled water balloons just under the surface of the soil having them go off a few times when he digs around should make him think twice
Reply:Try a leash : )
Help me keep my dog out of my flower bed?
Bury his feces throughout the flower bed. He will not dig wherever he smells his own poop. Your wife's flowers will benefit also from this method. Guaranteed!
Reply:Just get sumthing to put in the ground then put a leash on him and tie the leash to the thing in the ground. if you cant teach him how to be a cat and to use a litter box.
Reply:at any pet store they sell some spray to put over your flowers and stuff like that to keep dogs off.
dogs hate it. so i recommend that, if you want your puppy to stop =)
Reply:You could put garlic powder and Cyanne pepper powder on the flowers and the ground. Its also good for rabbit repellent also.
they dont like the taste or smell of the spices
Reply:try hiding filled water balloons just under the surface of the soil having them go off a few times when he digs around should make him think twice
Reply:Try a leash : )
An agent to kill voles in my yard and mulched flower beds?
Well, you can goto your local hardware store, building supply, or farm store to pick up poisons, traps, etc, to kill them off....or... you can spread some castor oil out on your lawn....yep.. that same fish oil that granny used to feed the kids to keep them healthy, heheheh... the burrowing critters don't like the taste, and it won't harm you lawn, or flowers.
Have Fun
An agent to kill voles in my yard and mulched flower beds?
I hate those darn voles! I don't know if you want something organic or not. I can't offer anything in the organic area, but the best way that I've found to kill them is rat poison. I buy the bars and then place chunks of it around the yard where I can see that they've been tunneling. It takes maybe a week to see effect. If you have dogs or cats in your yard simply put the chunks of bait into a coffee can with a lid, cut a hole about and inch and a half in the lid. Pets cannot get the lid off to get the poison. My dog does not like the smell of the poison and will not even go near the cans.
Reply:The first issue you have is you need to have an all organic yard/garden. You are right, a "Vole" is another term for a type of mouse also called a "meadow mouse". These are larger than house mice, have a short tail, and can be mistaken easily for a juvenile rat at first glance. Moles are in a different group, and a a burrowing animal- largely blind - and they tunnel under grass searching for insect larva which they feed on.
Voles look more like mice than moles with shorter tails. Use peppermint ground, oil or sticks, fox urine ( buy a sporting goods store ) or Mole Max which is organic and works for both. Pepper like ground or chunk Cayenne pepper mixed with tobacco powder. Glue boards and live traps are good also. Remember that removing all these may cause other issues as they are only where the food is like grubs and such.
Reply:I have heard that you can put peppermint chewing gum in the holes and the moles do not like it, so they will go elsewhere
Reply:I assume you mean MOLES, not VOLES. Find the entrance/exit holes. Get some hot peppers, Habanaros work great. Stick 3-4 into the hole. Any hot peppers will do. You will not see any moles again. The peppers will decompose, and help your environment. Try it, it works! Regards, Bob.
Have Fun
An agent to kill voles in my yard and mulched flower beds?
I hate those darn voles! I don't know if you want something organic or not. I can't offer anything in the organic area, but the best way that I've found to kill them is rat poison. I buy the bars and then place chunks of it around the yard where I can see that they've been tunneling. It takes maybe a week to see effect. If you have dogs or cats in your yard simply put the chunks of bait into a coffee can with a lid, cut a hole about and inch and a half in the lid. Pets cannot get the lid off to get the poison. My dog does not like the smell of the poison and will not even go near the cans.
Reply:The first issue you have is you need to have an all organic yard/garden. You are right, a "Vole" is another term for a type of mouse also called a "meadow mouse". These are larger than house mice, have a short tail, and can be mistaken easily for a juvenile rat at first glance. Moles are in a different group, and a a burrowing animal- largely blind - and they tunnel under grass searching for insect larva which they feed on.
Voles look more like mice than moles with shorter tails. Use peppermint ground, oil or sticks, fox urine ( buy a sporting goods store ) or Mole Max which is organic and works for both. Pepper like ground or chunk Cayenne pepper mixed with tobacco powder. Glue boards and live traps are good also. Remember that removing all these may cause other issues as they are only where the food is like grubs and such.
Reply:I have heard that you can put peppermint chewing gum in the holes and the moles do not like it, so they will go elsewhere
Reply:I assume you mean MOLES, not VOLES. Find the entrance/exit holes. Get some hot peppers, Habanaros work great. Stick 3-4 into the hole. Any hot peppers will do. You will not see any moles again. The peppers will decompose, and help your environment. Try it, it works! Regards, Bob.
The grass keeps coming back in my flower bed even after using two sheets of black plastic and mulch?
I'm tired of pulling grass out of my flower bed, I have put two layers of black plastic down and mulch and I have sprayed it with a safe against shrub grass killer. Please help!
The grass keeps coming back in my flower bed even after using two sheets of black plastic and mulch?
Yes, grass will rear its ugly little head even with black liner, mulch etc...Just when you see weed, pull it. I have my kids even pulling weeds now because they know they are not supposed to be there. If you do it every morning, you'll get a hanle on the weeds and you'll be okay and weed free.
Reply:try using preen Report It
Reply:You may have a type of grass that is growing over your edging. First I would be sure that you keep a crisp edge 2-3 inches deep between the lawn and the shrub border. Too much mulch over the fabric can create a place for grass to seed as well, I would think about a non-organic mulch like stone or gravel.
Reply:Maybe your mulch contains weed seeds? Maybe your mower has been shooting them into the garden?
You can try using the pellets that you sprinkle into the beds like preen that also has flower fertilizer and weed controller.
Teeth Problems
The grass keeps coming back in my flower bed even after using two sheets of black plastic and mulch?
Yes, grass will rear its ugly little head even with black liner, mulch etc...Just when you see weed, pull it. I have my kids even pulling weeds now because they know they are not supposed to be there. If you do it every morning, you'll get a hanle on the weeds and you'll be okay and weed free.
Reply:try using preen Report It
Reply:You may have a type of grass that is growing over your edging. First I would be sure that you keep a crisp edge 2-3 inches deep between the lawn and the shrub border. Too much mulch over the fabric can create a place for grass to seed as well, I would think about a non-organic mulch like stone or gravel.
Reply:Maybe your mulch contains weed seeds? Maybe your mower has been shooting them into the garden?
You can try using the pellets that you sprinkle into the beds like preen that also has flower fertilizer and weed controller.
Teeth Problems
I need a flower bed full of colors by march 17?
My boss said i need to have our flower beds full of colors by march 17. there having a very special board meeting. What kind of flowers will bloom by march that i can put in these flower beds and when can i put these in the beds.
I need a flower bed full of colors by march 17?
I live in VA and the landscapers in our area dressed up the "common areas" of our 6,000 resident "developement" with little purple and yellow flowers I saw at Home Depot - they look great, I think they're pansies. Pretty hardy flower that even the light snow we just got didn't wipe them out.
The bulbs the previous person told you about need to be in the ground NOW, to bloom when you want them...if your ground is frozen good luck digging the 4 to 6 inch depth to plant them!
I'd go by your local home improvement place or nursery and ask them about "flats" of plants you can transplant on your own when the time comes - Viola! Instant color.
Reply:If all else fails and the weather stays to cold and the ground to hard you could plants the you can plant later and set them in bed. Make sure the pots or flats are all the same size and then just add a layer of wood chips to cover the pots. Viola instant color. I seen it on TLC or something. Then needed color right then and that was a quick temporary fix.
Reply:Well it depends on the zone you live in. Check with a local nursery to find out when you can begin planting in your area and what plants they recommend for your needs. Keep in mind some plants need full sun others partial shade or full shade!
Better Homes and gardens website does have a lot of helpful tips.
Reply:Tulip and daffodil bulbs should do the trick, depending what planting zone you are in.....you did not specify.
Reply:Without knowing your "zone" it's pretty safe to say that you can think of bulbs (which you can buy already blooming in pots) and pansies (new hybrids are very early spring hardy). Visit your local nursery, put in the order, and they can start growing the plants for you.
good luck!
I need a flower bed full of colors by march 17?
I live in VA and the landscapers in our area dressed up the "common areas" of our 6,000 resident "developement" with little purple and yellow flowers I saw at Home Depot - they look great, I think they're pansies. Pretty hardy flower that even the light snow we just got didn't wipe them out.
The bulbs the previous person told you about need to be in the ground NOW, to bloom when you want them...if your ground is frozen good luck digging the 4 to 6 inch depth to plant them!
I'd go by your local home improvement place or nursery and ask them about "flats" of plants you can transplant on your own when the time comes - Viola! Instant color.
Reply:If all else fails and the weather stays to cold and the ground to hard you could plants the you can plant later and set them in bed. Make sure the pots or flats are all the same size and then just add a layer of wood chips to cover the pots. Viola instant color. I seen it on TLC or something. Then needed color right then and that was a quick temporary fix.
Reply:Well it depends on the zone you live in. Check with a local nursery to find out when you can begin planting in your area and what plants they recommend for your needs. Keep in mind some plants need full sun others partial shade or full shade!
Better Homes and gardens website does have a lot of helpful tips.
Reply:Tulip and daffodil bulbs should do the trick, depending what planting zone you are in.....you did not specify.
Reply:Without knowing your "zone" it's pretty safe to say that you can think of bulbs (which you can buy already blooming in pots) and pansies (new hybrids are very early spring hardy). Visit your local nursery, put in the order, and they can start growing the plants for you.
good luck!
Could used Cat litter be reused in any way around the yard or flower beds?
I use it around my lilac's all the time (after I clean out the chunks that is). The lilac's love the acidity of it and there is no smell.
Could used Cat litter be reused in any way around the yard or flower beds?
clumping cat litter turns to clay. Maybe if it was composted in a nice hot compost pile which would sterilize and digest it, it would be OK mixed with green waste as a soil builder. A great source of nitrogen.
Or maybe you could keep the clumps but throw out the feces.
I'm shootin' from the hip here. But there are some cat diseases which you have to watch out for, especially if they get into the runoff to the sea- lethal for sea lions.
Reply:if you wanted to, but it would probably give off the used odor for a while.
Reply:It can be used, but it's definitely not recommended. Used cat litter is not healthy for people.
Reply:I agree with Hal H, cat litter is made up of clay particles, and will compact the soil if you put it in your garden. I don't recommend it.
Reply:if the litter is a good one and clumps the droppings, it can be used to soak up spills on concrete. just put a good amount of litter over a fluid leak from your car and scuff it in with your feet. let it set for a few minutes and then sweep it up. works best if the spill is new.
Could used Cat litter be reused in any way around the yard or flower beds?
clumping cat litter turns to clay. Maybe if it was composted in a nice hot compost pile which would sterilize and digest it, it would be OK mixed with green waste as a soil builder. A great source of nitrogen.
Or maybe you could keep the clumps but throw out the feces.
I'm shootin' from the hip here. But there are some cat diseases which you have to watch out for, especially if they get into the runoff to the sea- lethal for sea lions.
Reply:if you wanted to, but it would probably give off the used odor for a while.
Reply:It can be used, but it's definitely not recommended. Used cat litter is not healthy for people.
Reply:I agree with Hal H, cat litter is made up of clay particles, and will compact the soil if you put it in your garden. I don't recommend it.
Reply:if the litter is a good one and clumps the droppings, it can be used to soak up spills on concrete. just put a good amount of litter over a fluid leak from your car and scuff it in with your feet. let it set for a few minutes and then sweep it up. works best if the spill is new.
How do i keep my dog out of my flower beds?
Invisible fence .... it rocks!
How do i keep my dog out of my flower beds?
Put orange peels in your flower beds! Dogs don't like the smell of oranges! It works pretty well! It also works for dogs that poop and pee in front yards!
Reply:Put a mini fence around your flower beds.
Reply:throw mothballs in it, no animal will use your flower bed for a lounge,even squirrels
Reply:instead of letting him outside, take him for walks.
Reply:Buy some red pepper powder and just sprinkle it around your flowers. He wont like the hot pepper and should leave your them alone!!!
How do i keep my dog out of my flower beds?
Put orange peels in your flower beds! Dogs don't like the smell of oranges! It works pretty well! It also works for dogs that poop and pee in front yards!
Reply:Put a mini fence around your flower beds.
Reply:throw mothballs in it, no animal will use your flower bed for a lounge,even squirrels
Reply:instead of letting him outside, take him for walks.
Reply:Buy some red pepper powder and just sprinkle it around your flowers. He wont like the hot pepper and should leave your them alone!!!
I need advice on planting mint and sage in my front flower beds...?
I AM PLANNING ON PLANTING SOME SAGE AND MINT. SHOULD I WEED THE AREA AND USE A WEED KILLER? IF I USE A WEED KILLER, HOW LONG MUST I WAIT BEFORE PLANTING? ALSO, IS THERE ANYTHING OUT THERE THAT WOULD DO WELL FOR SEMI-SHADE, AND IS GOOD FOR GROUND COVER? THANX
I need advice on planting mint and sage in my front flower beds...?
You may want to try using a plant fertilizer that eliminates weeds. This will feed your plant and kill the weeds. I planted peppermint in my herb garden last fall, in a container, and it STILL got out and spread all over the place. It is a great ground cover, but it will take over anything that is not covered with grass. It also smells good and will keep away bugs.
Reply:Snow on the mountain, also known as Bishops weed, is a fast growing ground cover for partial shade, it burns in full sun.Do not use a weed killer where you are planting herbs. Pull instead. You are better off growing mint in a container, it is very invasive.
deodorant
I need advice on planting mint and sage in my front flower beds...?
You may want to try using a plant fertilizer that eliminates weeds. This will feed your plant and kill the weeds. I planted peppermint in my herb garden last fall, in a container, and it STILL got out and spread all over the place. It is a great ground cover, but it will take over anything that is not covered with grass. It also smells good and will keep away bugs.
Reply:Snow on the mountain, also known as Bishops weed, is a fast growing ground cover for partial shade, it burns in full sun.Do not use a weed killer where you are planting herbs. Pull instead. You are better off growing mint in a container, it is very invasive.
deodorant
Any suggestions on what plants I could put in my new flower bed? gets morning sun then all-day shade.?
This plant bed is right next to ou home - it gets mostly shade, but definite morning sun. I'm hoping for mostly flower suggestions -- preferably aromatic ones too!
Any suggestions on what plants I could put in my new flower bed? gets morning sun then all-day shade.?
Jasmine grown on a trellis works good, very fragrant in springtime. Lavender also works great, just remember to trim it back once a year.
Reply:Depends on your zone.... I like hydrangea, azaleas and Jasmine in Arkansas
Reply:roses, pansy, petunias, begonias. My roses are doing well by the house. They just get morning sun also. I also have azealas by the roses. Check out your local gardening center. They have shade plants that have signs that tell you they are for shade. They also should have a shade mix seed set. It's a lot of fun. Just use your imagination, when you see for your self what kind of flowers there is for shade with a little sun it will be easier.
Reply:Lily of the Valley for permanent, violets for temporary.
Reply:use fake flowers, so you don't have to water them or anything
Reply:Impatiens. They are the best growers for shade and flower mostly all year long. Most scented flowers need full sun.
Reply:Lavender! You can never have enough.
Reply:Winter Daphne has very aromic flowers and comes in several colors. I dont know what zone your in so be sure to check.
Reply:I would reccomend roses, they smell good and dont need much sun. Make sure to plant them in very fertile and well-drained soil, though. I would also reccomend using earth worm castings when planting.
Reply:impatiens grow nice in shade.... if you're looking for a pretty decent website that can help you out try this one
http://www.monrovia.com/PlantInf.nsf/269...
Reply:Ask at a place that sells seeds. You can get mixes for special purposes. I am planting a wildflower mix now. It has 17 varieties that bloom all through summer. It also contains annuals and perennials, so they will be back next year.
You can also get things like butterfly mixes and humming bird mixes that attract those animals.
Check here: http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=%22s...
Find your hardiness zone and be sure you get seeds for your zone: http://www.backyardgardener.com/zone/
Reply:Depending on the zone you're in you can try begonias. They come in single and double varieties. I particularly like the doubles in red and yellow. Foxglove like shade and come in a variety of colours. Hostas don't flower as well as some plants but they do come in a wide variety of colours for the leaves. Some have white speckled through the leaves and some even have bluish leaves. Perennial geraniums (cranesbill) can thrive in your conditions. I have many growing in my own yard. Some get more sun than others but all are doing well. They come in various shades of pink and purple as well as white. Johnson's blue really shows up well in the shade. Visit a local garden center and ask the staff there. They will be able to suggest some lovely flowering plants that will suit your yard. There are really too many to list here.
Reply:Rotadendrum, Hostas both do really well in the shade, many varieties of both to add color.
Reply:I would go to the garden center in your hometown, or better yet a local greenhouse and ask what works best in your climate
Reply:Imaptiens should do well there. They come in many varities and sre usually in reds and pinks. Dalhias will also like that area, they come in all shades and also make great cut flowers for indoors. A little late for this season(depending on where you are) but some food dor thought for next year, most bulbs will do well with morning sun, especially daffodils and hyacynths. Plant the bulbs in the late fall, but before the ground freezes, if that happens in your climate. Good luck.
Reply:morning glories....they are beautiful
Any suggestions on what plants I could put in my new flower bed? gets morning sun then all-day shade.?
Jasmine grown on a trellis works good, very fragrant in springtime. Lavender also works great, just remember to trim it back once a year.
Reply:Depends on your zone.... I like hydrangea, azaleas and Jasmine in Arkansas
Reply:roses, pansy, petunias, begonias. My roses are doing well by the house. They just get morning sun also. I also have azealas by the roses. Check out your local gardening center. They have shade plants that have signs that tell you they are for shade. They also should have a shade mix seed set. It's a lot of fun. Just use your imagination, when you see for your self what kind of flowers there is for shade with a little sun it will be easier.
Reply:Lily of the Valley for permanent, violets for temporary.
Reply:use fake flowers, so you don't have to water them or anything
Reply:Impatiens. They are the best growers for shade and flower mostly all year long. Most scented flowers need full sun.
Reply:Lavender! You can never have enough.
Reply:Winter Daphne has very aromic flowers and comes in several colors. I dont know what zone your in so be sure to check.
Reply:I would reccomend roses, they smell good and dont need much sun. Make sure to plant them in very fertile and well-drained soil, though. I would also reccomend using earth worm castings when planting.
Reply:impatiens grow nice in shade.... if you're looking for a pretty decent website that can help you out try this one
http://www.monrovia.com/PlantInf.nsf/269...
Reply:Ask at a place that sells seeds. You can get mixes for special purposes. I am planting a wildflower mix now. It has 17 varieties that bloom all through summer. It also contains annuals and perennials, so they will be back next year.
You can also get things like butterfly mixes and humming bird mixes that attract those animals.
Check here: http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=%22s...
Find your hardiness zone and be sure you get seeds for your zone: http://www.backyardgardener.com/zone/
Reply:Depending on the zone you're in you can try begonias. They come in single and double varieties. I particularly like the doubles in red and yellow. Foxglove like shade and come in a variety of colours. Hostas don't flower as well as some plants but they do come in a wide variety of colours for the leaves. Some have white speckled through the leaves and some even have bluish leaves. Perennial geraniums (cranesbill) can thrive in your conditions. I have many growing in my own yard. Some get more sun than others but all are doing well. They come in various shades of pink and purple as well as white. Johnson's blue really shows up well in the shade. Visit a local garden center and ask the staff there. They will be able to suggest some lovely flowering plants that will suit your yard. There are really too many to list here.
Reply:Rotadendrum, Hostas both do really well in the shade, many varieties of both to add color.
Reply:I would go to the garden center in your hometown, or better yet a local greenhouse and ask what works best in your climate
Reply:Imaptiens should do well there. They come in many varities and sre usually in reds and pinks. Dalhias will also like that area, they come in all shades and also make great cut flowers for indoors. A little late for this season(depending on where you are) but some food dor thought for next year, most bulbs will do well with morning sun, especially daffodils and hyacynths. Plant the bulbs in the late fall, but before the ground freezes, if that happens in your climate. Good luck.
Reply:morning glories....they are beautiful
How can i get my dog to quit digging in my flower beds?
There are commercial powders or granules you can use. We have always used Powedered Cayanne pepper with excellent results.
How can i get my dog to quit digging in my flower beds?
Put some wooden stakes in the area it concentrates on or fill with plants. Mine has a habit of digging the lawn up underneath seats so I lay sticks on the grass - you could perhaps scatter some around your flower beds and a sharp word to reprimand the dog whenever you see it digging could help.
Reply:Try burying its own poop in the spot it is digging. or you can put some hot spice such as curry or pepper on the top of the soil.
Reply:you could put up a little fence around the flowers
How can i get my dog to quit digging in my flower beds?
Put some wooden stakes in the area it concentrates on or fill with plants. Mine has a habit of digging the lawn up underneath seats so I lay sticks on the grass - you could perhaps scatter some around your flower beds and a sharp word to reprimand the dog whenever you see it digging could help.
Reply:Try burying its own poop in the spot it is digging. or you can put some hot spice such as curry or pepper on the top of the soil.
Reply:you could put up a little fence around the flowers
I live in middle Tennessee and want to plant a miniature weeping tree in a flower bed I would like sugestions
I do not have a green thumb, and my area hasnt the best dirt.Please give me any help. My flower bed is in half sun and half shade.I have put in furtilizer in my dirt and also have mulched the area for 5 years and also used preen for the weeds.
I live in middle Tennessee and want to plant a miniature weeping tree in a flower bed I would like sugestions
I'm middle TN also. I don't know of any miniature weepings either but you might consider a Japanese maple tree. they are very slow growers, make nice accents to any flowerbeds and some have some unusual limbs on them. A small one runs about 30.00 at your local Lowe's stores.
Reply:Hi,,, i never heard of a miniature one,,, they are small and grow big,, is the ones I have seen........
Just do not plant it close to your water pipes or sewage pipes.... the roots go for the water.......
good luck
Reply:I live in middle Tennesse also,and I know that many people are planting weeping cherry trees as small accent trees in their lawns there. You might inquire at you local nursery. If you are close to Brentwood, there is a nursery there called Mark Bates, and in Franklin, you have the John Deere Landscape and Nursery. Give them a try.
I live in middle Tennessee and want to plant a miniature weeping tree in a flower bed I would like sugestions
I'm middle TN also. I don't know of any miniature weepings either but you might consider a Japanese maple tree. they are very slow growers, make nice accents to any flowerbeds and some have some unusual limbs on them. A small one runs about 30.00 at your local Lowe's stores.
Reply:Hi,,, i never heard of a miniature one,,, they are small and grow big,, is the ones I have seen........
Just do not plant it close to your water pipes or sewage pipes.... the roots go for the water.......
good luck
Reply:I live in middle Tennesse also,and I know that many people are planting weeping cherry trees as small accent trees in their lawns there. You might inquire at you local nursery. If you are close to Brentwood, there is a nursery there called Mark Bates, and in Franklin, you have the John Deere Landscape and Nursery. Give them a try.
Mice in my flower beds help!?
mice are burrowing around my hostus how to keep them out?
Mice in my flower beds help!?
You need to put the Hostas into pots and then bury the pots in the soil until only about 6" sticks up from the soil. Those mice are voles and they will eat the Hosta bulbs. Alternately, you can buy a predatory non-poisonous snake that is indigenous to your area and release it in your garden - but that is normally frowned upon in most social circles! LOL
You can buy a cat, but not all cats are mousers and not all will catch voles for you. My cat did not stop the voles, but a few wild blacksnakes moved into the yard for a few summers and those voles were cleaned out in a hurry - I hope they come back soon, because the voles are starting to breed up again!
shoe buckles
Mice in my flower beds help!?
You need to put the Hostas into pots and then bury the pots in the soil until only about 6" sticks up from the soil. Those mice are voles and they will eat the Hosta bulbs. Alternately, you can buy a predatory non-poisonous snake that is indigenous to your area and release it in your garden - but that is normally frowned upon in most social circles! LOL
You can buy a cat, but not all cats are mousers and not all will catch voles for you. My cat did not stop the voles, but a few wild blacksnakes moved into the yard for a few summers and those voles were cleaned out in a hurry - I hope they come back soon, because the voles are starting to breed up again!
shoe buckles
How can I kill off weeds and grass in a flower bed without harming the perenials that are already in there?
I just bought my first house and the woman who lived here previously had a beautiful yard (so the neighbors tell me) but she got cancer and let it all go.
The beds are full of grass, weeds, and flowers. The bulbs are showing above the dirt some. I tried to pull a bunch of the grass out but it seems like I'll never get it all cleaned out?
If I put mulch down, will that kill the grass without killing the bulbs? The bulbs are already sprouting which seems odd as I am in Wisconsin and there is still snow on the ground!
How can I kill off weeds and grass in a flower bed without harming the perenials that are already in there?
No matter how tedious it is, you will have to hand pull out the weeds and grass. Just take a little time each day to do it and you will see progress. When you are finished, remember you will still have to watch daily and pull but it will be less. Putting down mulch or weed block cloth will not kill all of it. You have to pull it up first. Let your bulbs bloom then by next year they will really stand out in your beautiful new garden! Gardening takes a lot of work, but it is so worth it. Good luck on your new hobby!LOL
Reply:Since it is still a little early you could hit the entire garden with round-up to kill off everything, wait till the weeds and grass have wilted and died, then water the soil heavily for two weeks ( to get rid of the round-up) then re-plant and keep a close eye on things.
The beds are full of grass, weeds, and flowers. The bulbs are showing above the dirt some. I tried to pull a bunch of the grass out but it seems like I'll never get it all cleaned out?
If I put mulch down, will that kill the grass without killing the bulbs? The bulbs are already sprouting which seems odd as I am in Wisconsin and there is still snow on the ground!
How can I kill off weeds and grass in a flower bed without harming the perenials that are already in there?
No matter how tedious it is, you will have to hand pull out the weeds and grass. Just take a little time each day to do it and you will see progress. When you are finished, remember you will still have to watch daily and pull but it will be less. Putting down mulch or weed block cloth will not kill all of it. You have to pull it up first. Let your bulbs bloom then by next year they will really stand out in your beautiful new garden! Gardening takes a lot of work, but it is so worth it. Good luck on your new hobby!LOL
Reply:Since it is still a little early you could hit the entire garden with round-up to kill off everything, wait till the weeds and grass have wilted and died, then water the soil heavily for two weeks ( to get rid of the round-up) then re-plant and keep a close eye on things.
Help me keep my dog out of my flower bed?
I've got a boxer pup and he's digging in our flower bed when we let him out. He's also eaten our crape bush. We've tried watching and getting on to him, spraying him in bum with water, and recently spread some "critter ridder" stuff-- that's basically peppers (the dog just licked it and ate some more mulch). Is there anything short of the underground electric fence that anyone knows of to stop him from eating my wife's flowers?
Help me keep my dog out of my flower bed?
Consider taking him out leashed.
I think his basic problems boredom. Boxers require a significant amount of exercise every day.
Walk him (at least a mile), then train him (squirt bottle with water when he enters unapproved space). Then, when he does something correctly, give him praise/affection/treats.
If you doubt me, check out Caesar Milano
Reply:How would you like to be sprayed up the rear end with cold water ? thats not very nice, cant you just fence it in till he is a bit bigger?
Reply:My dog likes to garden too, we finally had to put up a small fence around the flower beds, my husband made small posts then attached chicken wire to it.
Reply:Chicken wire layed onto ground in front of the flower bed. A pup will still run on it a few times but soon will decide it is not fun. Otherwise, may have to put up a fence.
Help me keep my dog out of my flower bed?
Consider taking him out leashed.
I think his basic problems boredom. Boxers require a significant amount of exercise every day.
Walk him (at least a mile), then train him (squirt bottle with water when he enters unapproved space). Then, when he does something correctly, give him praise/affection/treats.
If you doubt me, check out Caesar Milano
Reply:How would you like to be sprayed up the rear end with cold water ? thats not very nice, cant you just fence it in till he is a bit bigger?
Reply:My dog likes to garden too, we finally had to put up a small fence around the flower beds, my husband made small posts then attached chicken wire to it.
Reply:Chicken wire layed onto ground in front of the flower bed. A pup will still run on it a few times but soon will decide it is not fun. Otherwise, may have to put up a fence.
How can i get the cats to quit pooping in my flower beds with out spending alot of money or hurting the cats?
try moth balls in the garden
How can i get the cats to quit pooping in my flower beds with out spending alot of money or hurting the cats?
get a litterbox and cat litter for them - although you may need to refresh the cat litter periodically
Reply:Try covering the dirt with foil. Cats hate foil, especially the sound of it, so if they step on the foil, it will scare the cats away.
Also, they make sprays that you can buy at your local pet store, exaclty for keeping cats away from places they shouldnt. Usually only cost about $ 15 a bottle, and the bottle lasts a long time. And it wont hurt your plants either.
Reply:put hot sauce or crushed peppers on topsoil.
Reply:I've had good success for the past two years with this method:
First, remove and discard any soil that you know cats have already pooped in. They like to poop in places that already smell "nice."
Second, cover the soil with something that inhibits digging: One of my beds is surrounded by chicken wire, rolled flat on the ground. The other is surrounded with old, dried up, very thorny rose bush cuttings. Neither feel nice on anyone's feet. I don't mind the look of either of these materials, but you might.
Third, keep a loaded squirt gun handy -- one of the big ones that shoots 20 feet or more -- and use this to discourage any cats that happen to come in the yard while you're there. I love cats, and grew up with seven, but they do need discipline sometimes. And it's fun for me. :-)
Good luck!
Reply:hose it in.... it is only POO!!! unless your cat has worms or diseases then you have nothing to worry about....
How can i get the cats to quit pooping in my flower beds with out spending alot of money or hurting the cats?
get a litterbox and cat litter for them - although you may need to refresh the cat litter periodically
Reply:Try covering the dirt with foil. Cats hate foil, especially the sound of it, so if they step on the foil, it will scare the cats away.
Also, they make sprays that you can buy at your local pet store, exaclty for keeping cats away from places they shouldnt. Usually only cost about $ 15 a bottle, and the bottle lasts a long time. And it wont hurt your plants either.
Reply:put hot sauce or crushed peppers on topsoil.
Reply:I've had good success for the past two years with this method:
First, remove and discard any soil that you know cats have already pooped in. They like to poop in places that already smell "nice."
Second, cover the soil with something that inhibits digging: One of my beds is surrounded by chicken wire, rolled flat on the ground. The other is surrounded with old, dried up, very thorny rose bush cuttings. Neither feel nice on anyone's feet. I don't mind the look of either of these materials, but you might.
Third, keep a loaded squirt gun handy -- one of the big ones that shoots 20 feet or more -- and use this to discourage any cats that happen to come in the yard while you're there. I love cats, and grew up with seven, but they do need discipline sometimes. And it's fun for me. :-)
Good luck!
Reply:hose it in.... it is only POO!!! unless your cat has worms or diseases then you have nothing to worry about....
Does anyone know a home remedy to repell cats from a garden/flower bed?
I need to know a home remedey to repell cats from flower beds and/or gardens. Thanx
Does anyone know a home remedy to repell cats from a garden/flower bed?
This works on cats chewing houseplants...I dont know how hard it would be in a garden or if the cats are chewing or poohing in yours.You can take hot sauce mixed with water and brush over the leaves..It wont hurt them but will bother the cats...maybe that would be enough to keep them out of the dirt as well?
Reply:M60
Reply:orange rinds, cayenne pepper
Reply:There is a product called NO NO in the pet stores. Pet Smart
Reply:moth balls are said to.
Reply:grow some cat grass for them they should leave the other plants alone.
Reply:vinegar repels cats
Reply:Ask your vet and they'll probably be able to help you figure out what to use and or do.
Reply:you can grow wheatgrass, which is a plant cats can eat. but they might not eat it because they only eat your plants to piss you off.
Reply:I don't know a home remedy...but I do know that stores sell things that repel cats. Also, kitties don't like strong smells....that's why they tell you to put vinegar around your x-mas tree.
Reply:Take a squirt bottle and everytime she goes near it squirt her with it. And tell her no.
Reply:12 gage 00 buck shot works best
for shoe lasts
Does anyone know a home remedy to repell cats from a garden/flower bed?
This works on cats chewing houseplants...I dont know how hard it would be in a garden or if the cats are chewing or poohing in yours.You can take hot sauce mixed with water and brush over the leaves..It wont hurt them but will bother the cats...maybe that would be enough to keep them out of the dirt as well?
Reply:M60
Reply:orange rinds, cayenne pepper
Reply:There is a product called NO NO in the pet stores. Pet Smart
Reply:moth balls are said to.
Reply:grow some cat grass for them they should leave the other plants alone.
Reply:vinegar repels cats
Reply:Ask your vet and they'll probably be able to help you figure out what to use and or do.
Reply:you can grow wheatgrass, which is a plant cats can eat. but they might not eat it because they only eat your plants to piss you off.
Reply:I don't know a home remedy...but I do know that stores sell things that repel cats. Also, kitties don't like strong smells....that's why they tell you to put vinegar around your x-mas tree.
Reply:Take a squirt bottle and everytime she goes near it squirt her with it. And tell her no.
Reply:12 gage 00 buck shot works best
for shoe lasts
Is it OK to lay black trash bags below mulch on flower bed?
we had asked the lawn firm we use to clean our flower bed which had weeds. They removed some weeds, tilled soil, laid black garbage bags (with space around plants), followed by mulch. To plant new plants, I was told to slit the bags where I needed to plant. Will this hurt the soil or existing/new plants - we have some rose bushes I do not want to damage and I am a novice gardener.
Is it OK to lay black trash bags below mulch on flower bed?
The trash bags were used to keep grass and weeds from growing in the beds, this doesn't work for long. The wind and birds will drop weed seeds in the mulch bed and then you will have the perfect environment, dark and moist, for the development of weeds again. It's better not to use any barriers and keep mulch around plants and over the entire bed. If weeds pop up, cover with more mulch to smother them or use Round Up Spray to kill them. You will hate your self years from now after using a barrier, they are horrible to remove and really aren't effective at keeping the weeds at bay.
Reply:No, use landscape fabric. It lets water through.
You can buy it by the roll in garden centers and the garden departments of most chain stores.
Reply:I would recommend using a weed fabric instead of a bag. this fabric prevents the weeds from coming in and helps a bunch. A lot better than the plastic. You do the same thing as you were talking about. Just cut a whole where you are going to plant you plant. here is a link below of the fabric i was speaking of.
Hope this helped! :)
BTW you can find this stuff cheaper at like walmart or something to.
Reply:I use black plastic bags under my stones,so nothing will grow through.I like the newspapers in my plant beds as they do break down and is a good way to re-cycle them.Just put down several layers,overlapping.Nothing will grow through them.I have started new beds with papers on the bottom of my new dirt.Then planted my flowers.Is very effective.There is a mold that grows under the papers also,but is beneficial to soil.
No,digging a planting hole won't harm either the soil or existing plants.
Reply:Okay, I have to rant--I HATE WEED MAT! I don't care what method you use, be it actual weed mat or plastic bags, none of it works. The problem is that, as one person said, the plastic bags hold in moisture and can cause a mold problem near the roots. Weed mat has small holes that will 'breathe', so that is a little better there. My pet peeve kicks in when you shovel your mulching material over the top of the weed mat---that stuff breaks down (as it should) and the weeds will grow ON TOP of the weed mat! What a waste of time and money! I have never, ever, EVER had a good experience with weed mat and I would never use it. As a professional, I would caution you against the investment. Leave the soil alone and just WEED it. Actually right now is the optimum time to apply pre-emergent, so do that and save yourself the hassle. Good luck! :-)
Reply:The problem with plastic is just that. You can get a mold that will grow between the mulch and the plastic. I'd use newspaper as it breaks down and won't hurt the environment. Good luck!
Reply:It is absolutely ok! The material that landscapers use is similar to black garbage bag material-- it just may be a little thicker. The garbage bags will not hurt your plants or the soil.
Reply:They shouldn't have used trash bags as the rain will not get through and you may end up with puddles and/or deseased plants from stagnant water laying around. Get rid of them or poke lots of holes though the bags before covering with mulch. You would be better off by spending a bit of money on proper weed suppressant fabric.Its woven and will let water through but will supress weeds.A cheap one will do the job. Cut a cross in the fabric where you would like to plant, then fold corners back in when planted.Cover with mulch.
Reply:They have told you the correct way to plant. Follow those directions and all will be OK.
Reply:hey--they were trying to get by cheap--they probably had gathered leaves in them--and dumped the leaves out some where---best to use news paper or fabric that is designed to let water in but not let weeds grow out
Is it OK to lay black trash bags below mulch on flower bed?
The trash bags were used to keep grass and weeds from growing in the beds, this doesn't work for long. The wind and birds will drop weed seeds in the mulch bed and then you will have the perfect environment, dark and moist, for the development of weeds again. It's better not to use any barriers and keep mulch around plants and over the entire bed. If weeds pop up, cover with more mulch to smother them or use Round Up Spray to kill them. You will hate your self years from now after using a barrier, they are horrible to remove and really aren't effective at keeping the weeds at bay.
Reply:No, use landscape fabric. It lets water through.
You can buy it by the roll in garden centers and the garden departments of most chain stores.
Reply:I would recommend using a weed fabric instead of a bag. this fabric prevents the weeds from coming in and helps a bunch. A lot better than the plastic. You do the same thing as you were talking about. Just cut a whole where you are going to plant you plant. here is a link below of the fabric i was speaking of.
Hope this helped! :)
BTW you can find this stuff cheaper at like walmart or something to.
Reply:I use black plastic bags under my stones,so nothing will grow through.I like the newspapers in my plant beds as they do break down and is a good way to re-cycle them.Just put down several layers,overlapping.Nothing will grow through them.I have started new beds with papers on the bottom of my new dirt.Then planted my flowers.Is very effective.There is a mold that grows under the papers also,but is beneficial to soil.
No,digging a planting hole won't harm either the soil or existing plants.
Reply:Okay, I have to rant--I HATE WEED MAT! I don't care what method you use, be it actual weed mat or plastic bags, none of it works. The problem is that, as one person said, the plastic bags hold in moisture and can cause a mold problem near the roots. Weed mat has small holes that will 'breathe', so that is a little better there. My pet peeve kicks in when you shovel your mulching material over the top of the weed mat---that stuff breaks down (as it should) and the weeds will grow ON TOP of the weed mat! What a waste of time and money! I have never, ever, EVER had a good experience with weed mat and I would never use it. As a professional, I would caution you against the investment. Leave the soil alone and just WEED it. Actually right now is the optimum time to apply pre-emergent, so do that and save yourself the hassle. Good luck! :-)
Reply:The problem with plastic is just that. You can get a mold that will grow between the mulch and the plastic. I'd use newspaper as it breaks down and won't hurt the environment. Good luck!
Reply:It is absolutely ok! The material that landscapers use is similar to black garbage bag material-- it just may be a little thicker. The garbage bags will not hurt your plants or the soil.
Reply:They shouldn't have used trash bags as the rain will not get through and you may end up with puddles and/or deseased plants from stagnant water laying around. Get rid of them or poke lots of holes though the bags before covering with mulch. You would be better off by spending a bit of money on proper weed suppressant fabric.Its woven and will let water through but will supress weeds.A cheap one will do the job. Cut a cross in the fabric where you would like to plant, then fold corners back in when planted.Cover with mulch.
Reply:They have told you the correct way to plant. Follow those directions and all will be OK.
Reply:hey--they were trying to get by cheap--they probably had gathered leaves in them--and dumped the leaves out some where---best to use news paper or fabric that is designed to let water in but not let weeds grow out
I am trying to build a raised flower bed. The bottom base is concrete. I need ideas on how to?
build this raised flower bed so that the water will not sit at the bottom of the base. Also what should the walls be made of. Thanks for your thoughts on this idea
I am trying to build a raised flower bed. The bottom base is concrete. I need ideas on how to?
We built ours out of 4" x4" treated(treated with copper, not arsenic) wood and the excess water comes out between the wood. We used long lag screws to hold them together. We also built some out of retaining wall block which weeps excess water through the blocks quite well. With a concrete base, you could use either and the excess water would just weep out under the bottom blocks or wood.
If you do a google search for "raised bed gardening" you'll get many sites that have information about it and places that sell kits to build them. I've used mine for vegetables and had a bumper crop of tomatoes, cucumbers and squash despite the drought we're having.
I also put earth worms in my beds to help improve the soil since we had used topsoil bought from Lowes that didn't have a lot of nutrients in it.
Reply:I don't think I am understanding. Are you building a flowerbed on a concrete slab? If so, that is going to fry your plants.
Just like lawns fry if there are rocks beneath the surface, the concrete is going to be heated by the sun and cook your garden.
Reply:Ideally you should break up the concrete so that water can drain into the soil beneath the concrete.
Otherwise, you will need to put a layer of gravel or plastic drainage tubing on the bottom of the raised bed. Wall can be made of anything you choose: wood, stone, concrete, bricks.
Reply:You could put in French Drains, which are basically clay pipes that sit at the bottom of the bed, and lead excess water out of it.
If you are careful, and don't over water, you can just treat your bed like a giant pot.
The walls depend on what you are trying to do, and how high you are building the bed. I like concrete blocks, personally, but it depends on your budget and tastes.
Reply:You can build the walls out of whatever you like- wood, concrete block, landscaping block. It sounds like you are building raised beds on an existing concrete slab. If so, make the beds 8-12 inches deep. Water will not sit at the base, it will drain out under whatever materials you use. If you use hollow core concrete blocks, you can fill the cores with soil and grow in them also.
Visit our website for more raised bed gardening ideas at-
http://www.gardening-at-the-crossroads.c...
Good Luck and Happy Gardening from Cathy and Neal!
I am trying to build a raised flower bed. The bottom base is concrete. I need ideas on how to?
We built ours out of 4" x4" treated(treated with copper, not arsenic) wood and the excess water comes out between the wood. We used long lag screws to hold them together. We also built some out of retaining wall block which weeps excess water through the blocks quite well. With a concrete base, you could use either and the excess water would just weep out under the bottom blocks or wood.
If you do a google search for "raised bed gardening" you'll get many sites that have information about it and places that sell kits to build them. I've used mine for vegetables and had a bumper crop of tomatoes, cucumbers and squash despite the drought we're having.
I also put earth worms in my beds to help improve the soil since we had used topsoil bought from Lowes that didn't have a lot of nutrients in it.
Reply:I don't think I am understanding. Are you building a flowerbed on a concrete slab? If so, that is going to fry your plants.
Just like lawns fry if there are rocks beneath the surface, the concrete is going to be heated by the sun and cook your garden.
Reply:Ideally you should break up the concrete so that water can drain into the soil beneath the concrete.
Otherwise, you will need to put a layer of gravel or plastic drainage tubing on the bottom of the raised bed. Wall can be made of anything you choose: wood, stone, concrete, bricks.
Reply:You could put in French Drains, which are basically clay pipes that sit at the bottom of the bed, and lead excess water out of it.
If you are careful, and don't over water, you can just treat your bed like a giant pot.
The walls depend on what you are trying to do, and how high you are building the bed. I like concrete blocks, personally, but it depends on your budget and tastes.
Reply:You can build the walls out of whatever you like- wood, concrete block, landscaping block. It sounds like you are building raised beds on an existing concrete slab. If so, make the beds 8-12 inches deep. Water will not sit at the base, it will drain out under whatever materials you use. If you use hollow core concrete blocks, you can fill the cores with soil and grow in them also.
Visit our website for more raised bed gardening ideas at-
http://www.gardening-at-the-crossroads.c...
Good Luck and Happy Gardening from Cathy and Neal!
Cats are pooping in our flower beds what can we do about it?
There is a product called Boundary which you can get at Petsmart and it will keep cats out of flower beds and other areas where you don't want them to go.
Cats are pooping in our flower beds what can we do about it?
put orange peals in the flower beds it'll keep it away from there
Reply:put pepper around it so when they sniff they'll sneeze and never want to go back again
Reply:I don't know how this works, but it does, surprising as it seems!
Get a couple of empty clear plastic bottles (Coke or something like that). Fill them with water %26amp; put the caps back on. Lay them on the flowerbeds and leave them. For some reason, cats are put off by the sight of them and won't go near the flowerbeds.
Reply:Dont do anything. It fertilizes the plants, it will not harm them.
Reply:Usually moth balls or moth flakes work, if not use Tabasco or the Hot Sauce from Taco Bell.
Reply:Use moth balls or moth ball flakes around the flower beds. It works for me.By the way, Cat poop is not good fertilizer.In fact it can make you and your pets sick. You can also set up a humane trap and take the cat to your local shelter.
Reply:I would try the moth balls. They worked for me. It is not the cats pooping that hurts your flowers it is the cat urine. It will kill your flowers. But the moth balls will keep them from taking care of their business around the flowers.
Reply:I'd leave it alone, her poop is a natural fertilizer and will make your soil richer for the flowers.
Reply:unless they are actually uprooting the flowers, don't worry about it. or try this, it usually works with cats, rabbits, and squirrels. get a box of moth balls and sprinkle all around the flower beds, (I have also used them in planters on my deck to keep creatures off) these will last through several rainstorms, and if it works for you it is a cheap solution.
Reply:1. remove flower beds!
2. catch %26amp; remove cats
3.get-a-big cranky dog!
Reply:Are they your cats... or neighbors????
Spray some stuff you can get at the pet shop which will not harm cats and your flowers...??? and the smell will put them off..
You have to do it a few time...!!!
Maybe you can put some foil on the flowers beds..
and the noise when they step on it will frightened them off...
hope this can help you...
Good luck..
Cats are pooping in our flower beds what can we do about it?
put orange peals in the flower beds it'll keep it away from there
Reply:put pepper around it so when they sniff they'll sneeze and never want to go back again
Reply:I don't know how this works, but it does, surprising as it seems!
Get a couple of empty clear plastic bottles (Coke or something like that). Fill them with water %26amp; put the caps back on. Lay them on the flowerbeds and leave them. For some reason, cats are put off by the sight of them and won't go near the flowerbeds.
Reply:Dont do anything. It fertilizes the plants, it will not harm them.
Reply:Usually moth balls or moth flakes work, if not use Tabasco or the Hot Sauce from Taco Bell.
Reply:Use moth balls or moth ball flakes around the flower beds. It works for me.By the way, Cat poop is not good fertilizer.In fact it can make you and your pets sick. You can also set up a humane trap and take the cat to your local shelter.
Reply:I would try the moth balls. They worked for me. It is not the cats pooping that hurts your flowers it is the cat urine. It will kill your flowers. But the moth balls will keep them from taking care of their business around the flowers.
Reply:I'd leave it alone, her poop is a natural fertilizer and will make your soil richer for the flowers.
Reply:unless they are actually uprooting the flowers, don't worry about it. or try this, it usually works with cats, rabbits, and squirrels. get a box of moth balls and sprinkle all around the flower beds, (I have also used them in planters on my deck to keep creatures off) these will last through several rainstorms, and if it works for you it is a cheap solution.
Reply:1. remove flower beds!
2. catch %26amp; remove cats
3.get-a-big cranky dog!
Reply:Are they your cats... or neighbors????
Spray some stuff you can get at the pet shop which will not harm cats and your flowers...??? and the smell will put them off..
You have to do it a few time...!!!
Maybe you can put some foil on the flowers beds..
and the noise when they step on it will frightened them off...
hope this can help you...
Good luck..
What can I plant in my flower bed?
It's about 10 feet long, but here's my problem- we do not have rain gutters (and my husband says we can't afford to put any up yet) and the flower bed is right underneath where the rain comes off the roof. So when it rains, any flowers that I have planted get demolished and uprooted. I need to plant something that can take the beating. I was thinking ivy. Will this work? Any other ideas?
What can I plant in my flower bed?
Is this site in the Sun or shade?
I also lack gutters but I have a row of trellises depending from the eaves along the entire thirty feet. They attach to the face board that is at the drip line. This gives me room to walk behind the trellises to paint, which I did last year, and tend the plants. I have enough room to put up a short platform to stand on. The other way I've seen it done is to have the trellis feet hinge so the plants can be laid down when house work needs to be done.
I have ivy, Hedera helix, 'Gold Heart' along with an espaliered Camellia sasanqua that blooms earlier than C. japonica.
There is an Hydrangea petiolaris, a climbing hydrangea, and a rhododendron.
All of these plants have leaves of substance and show no effects from the constant Pacific Northwest rain. I also have no drip line dug into the soil from the constant impact of falling water, the leaves scatter it. We never get torrential rains like the East Coast though.
I have been considering Kadsura japonica Fukurin a glossy leaved plant for afternoon shade that has a striking variegated leaf.
Plants for any other direction would need to tolerate more sun more than these do. Salal (Gaultheria shallon) would work. Grapes also have pretty tough leaves. Vitis vinifera 'Purpurea'. Purple Leafed Grape is stunning, much smaller than a fruiting plant, but, though edible, there are no huge clusters of grapes produced. You'll disappoint the birds with such small offerings.
http://www.gardenvines.com/catalog/vitis...
Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' has bright yellow-green lobed leaves that render it the most desirable ornamental hop. also smaller than vines used to produce hops for beer. I have this growing towards the grape across the back property line. http://davesgarden.com/pf/go/1153/index....
Reply:Better to go with shrubs that can take a pounding of the rain. You give no ZONE so must ask your local nursery.
Reply:iris' and some species of daylilies. These are prety hardy.
Graphics software
What can I plant in my flower bed?
Is this site in the Sun or shade?
I also lack gutters but I have a row of trellises depending from the eaves along the entire thirty feet. They attach to the face board that is at the drip line. This gives me room to walk behind the trellises to paint, which I did last year, and tend the plants. I have enough room to put up a short platform to stand on. The other way I've seen it done is to have the trellis feet hinge so the plants can be laid down when house work needs to be done.
I have ivy, Hedera helix, 'Gold Heart' along with an espaliered Camellia sasanqua that blooms earlier than C. japonica.
There is an Hydrangea petiolaris, a climbing hydrangea, and a rhododendron.
All of these plants have leaves of substance and show no effects from the constant Pacific Northwest rain. I also have no drip line dug into the soil from the constant impact of falling water, the leaves scatter it. We never get torrential rains like the East Coast though.
I have been considering Kadsura japonica Fukurin a glossy leaved plant for afternoon shade that has a striking variegated leaf.
Plants for any other direction would need to tolerate more sun more than these do. Salal (Gaultheria shallon) would work. Grapes also have pretty tough leaves. Vitis vinifera 'Purpurea'. Purple Leafed Grape is stunning, much smaller than a fruiting plant, but, though edible, there are no huge clusters of grapes produced. You'll disappoint the birds with such small offerings.
http://www.gardenvines.com/catalog/vitis...
Humulus lupulus 'Aureus' has bright yellow-green lobed leaves that render it the most desirable ornamental hop. also smaller than vines used to produce hops for beer. I have this growing towards the grape across the back property line. http://davesgarden.com/pf/go/1153/index....
Reply:Better to go with shrubs that can take a pounding of the rain. You give no ZONE so must ask your local nursery.
Reply:iris' and some species of daylilies. These are prety hardy.
Graphics software
How do I make a raised flower bed? Easy 10 points for ebst answer?
The raised flower bed will be about 6' by 8". And it will have Tomatoes, Onions, Red, Yellow, and Bell peppers, Carrots, and Kale. But, how do you make it, and where do you buy the wood? Cause I want the walls to be wooden.
How do I make a raised flower bed? Easy 10 points for ebst answer?
You make it by building a box without a bottom. Clear your dirt area, measure how big you want it. Pound square stakes in at the corners and halfway down the sides. Measure the wood and cut it or have it cut at the hardware store. (it should be around 10+ inches tall but that's up to you.) Railroad ties aren't a requirement but look good if you plan to keep it as a main part of your yard for years to come. Wood should not be plywood though. Best is close to 2" wide. Then nail all four corners and on the sides to the support stakes. Fill with dirt. Plant.
Or search online for "how to build a raised garden bed". You can probably find pictures of how to do it.
(you could also look in a gardening book. Most basic ones show how to do it.) Remember where your sun is when planning.
Reply:What you need are old railroad ties ... you can buy them at most home improvement centers 'new' and those are actually better ... also get metal to fit them together. First you build the frame and test to be sure it's strong enough to hold the dirt. Next, go to the nursery and get some dirt ... get 7-8 way (it's a combination of dirt and compost) and get as much FINISHED compost as you can ... a 6'x8' raised be that is at least 12" deep (the minimum) should take two full yards of dirt and one full yard of compost. Mix well, water thoroughly, let sit for at least two days, and plant. Enjoy the vegies ... in a raised bed and with the proper dirt/compost, they will taste AMAZINGLY GOOD.
Reply:I built mine out of treated lumber that was 10 inches wide. You will definitely need weed block to go underneath the box. If you want it 6' long I would suggest you make it 3' wide. You will need to go to Lowe's or Home Depot and get 18' of lumber. They will cut it for you. Tell them what your project is and ask what size nail or screw you will need to hold it together. If you are not sure if these dimensions are right for you, use your garden hose and lay it on the groung in a 6'x3' box and adjust it until you get a size that you like.
I get my soil from a local nursery that mixes their own from compost, sawdust, perlite and other magical ingredients. Fill the frame to the top because the soil will pack down over time.
Good luck to you. I have had great success with mine for the last 2 years. My dad has used the raised bed method of gardening for at least the last 15 years and will garden no other way! Best of luck!
Reply:You would have to use treated wood to keep insects from getting into your wood. You can buy it in any width and most lumber yards,like Lowe's, Home Depot or any local yard would have it. I would mix compost into my soil for sure Good luck on your garden.
Reply:First get wood at Lowes are any home supply store. They can cute it to the sizes you need. It is easier to build it up against something (a fence or your home). First put down weed block below where you will build. After you have built your box where your plants will be then add rock or mulch then add your soil, a little bit over the top of the box. Go ahead and water then add your plants. Good Luck!
Reply:go the the garden section of home depot and ask people who work their questions. they can get you everything you need from lumber to soil and seeds. they also have magazine sections that have books/magazines on gardening that can give you some ideas about exactly what you want to do.
Reply:you make a box with wood that you bought at a hardware/building supply store and screw it together at the corners or if you want to get really fancy get some corner braces and make it really strong. the fill it with soil and plant away
Reply:So it is not a flower bed, it is more like a vegetable bed.
Reply:Go to a nursery or Home Depot; ask for railroad ties.
Actually, there are smaller versions available today.
You want the kind that are treated but safe for food.
Reply:buy the wood at home depot and they will tell u how to do it
How do I make a raised flower bed? Easy 10 points for ebst answer?
You make it by building a box without a bottom. Clear your dirt area, measure how big you want it. Pound square stakes in at the corners and halfway down the sides. Measure the wood and cut it or have it cut at the hardware store. (it should be around 10+ inches tall but that's up to you.) Railroad ties aren't a requirement but look good if you plan to keep it as a main part of your yard for years to come. Wood should not be plywood though. Best is close to 2" wide. Then nail all four corners and on the sides to the support stakes. Fill with dirt. Plant.
Or search online for "how to build a raised garden bed". You can probably find pictures of how to do it.
(you could also look in a gardening book. Most basic ones show how to do it.) Remember where your sun is when planning.
Reply:What you need are old railroad ties ... you can buy them at most home improvement centers 'new' and those are actually better ... also get metal to fit them together. First you build the frame and test to be sure it's strong enough to hold the dirt. Next, go to the nursery and get some dirt ... get 7-8 way (it's a combination of dirt and compost) and get as much FINISHED compost as you can ... a 6'x8' raised be that is at least 12" deep (the minimum) should take two full yards of dirt and one full yard of compost. Mix well, water thoroughly, let sit for at least two days, and plant. Enjoy the vegies ... in a raised bed and with the proper dirt/compost, they will taste AMAZINGLY GOOD.
Reply:I built mine out of treated lumber that was 10 inches wide. You will definitely need weed block to go underneath the box. If you want it 6' long I would suggest you make it 3' wide. You will need to go to Lowe's or Home Depot and get 18' of lumber. They will cut it for you. Tell them what your project is and ask what size nail or screw you will need to hold it together. If you are not sure if these dimensions are right for you, use your garden hose and lay it on the groung in a 6'x3' box and adjust it until you get a size that you like.
I get my soil from a local nursery that mixes their own from compost, sawdust, perlite and other magical ingredients. Fill the frame to the top because the soil will pack down over time.
Good luck to you. I have had great success with mine for the last 2 years. My dad has used the raised bed method of gardening for at least the last 15 years and will garden no other way! Best of luck!
Reply:You would have to use treated wood to keep insects from getting into your wood. You can buy it in any width and most lumber yards,like Lowe's, Home Depot or any local yard would have it. I would mix compost into my soil for sure Good luck on your garden.
Reply:First get wood at Lowes are any home supply store. They can cute it to the sizes you need. It is easier to build it up against something (a fence or your home). First put down weed block below where you will build. After you have built your box where your plants will be then add rock or mulch then add your soil, a little bit over the top of the box. Go ahead and water then add your plants. Good Luck!
Reply:go the the garden section of home depot and ask people who work their questions. they can get you everything you need from lumber to soil and seeds. they also have magazine sections that have books/magazines on gardening that can give you some ideas about exactly what you want to do.
Reply:you make a box with wood that you bought at a hardware/building supply store and screw it together at the corners or if you want to get really fancy get some corner braces and make it really strong. the fill it with soil and plant away
Reply:So it is not a flower bed, it is more like a vegetable bed.
Reply:Go to a nursery or Home Depot; ask for railroad ties.
Actually, there are smaller versions available today.
You want the kind that are treated but safe for food.
Reply:buy the wood at home depot and they will tell u how to do it
Is there anyway to keep weeds out of a flower bed?
We live in a townhome community and the association takes care of mowing grass but not weeding. We have one flower bed out front that we have tried putting down the heavy landscaping plastic and piling mulch high but no matter what we have weeds. We are an older couple and keeping it weed free is hard. I'm afraid Roundup would also kill the shrubs. Any ideas?
Is there anyway to keep weeds out of a flower bed?
Well its alot of work, but so worth it, you will need a roll of Weed Guard, you put this on the ground preferably before you plant for easiest installation, if you have already planted, you will need to cut holes for the plants to fit through or go around it. Then on top of this Weed Guard you can put pine nuggets or cedar chips, this works dually to keep out weeds.
Reply:I find that planting many plants close together eliminates a lot of weeding ,and of course as soon as soon as you see the weeds pull them out by the roots!
Reply:The more things you plant in an area and keep it full of flowers, there won't be much room for weeds to grow. Plant some perrenials that will come up every year and then some annuals. But leave very little room for weeds to grow. As far as a weed killer. they are made to not kill the other things around them and plus they make sprays that have little spry nozzles that u can pinpoint exactly where u want to spray so you won't get it on anything else.
Reply:Roundup only kills when it gets on the leaves. Depending on the layout, you could carefully spray only on the weeds.
Other than that, mulch would be your best bet. That and simply pulling weeds. If you don't have the energy yourselves, maybe you can pay neighborhood kids to do it -- similar to paying a kid to mow your yard. Of course, you'll probably want to be out there with them to make sure they don't pull out the plants you want to keep!
Reply:what you can do, if possible, is to (when its spring time.)
Get some liner, or an old carpet will do it. Pull up your plants gently, lay the liner or carpet over your flower bed, then where you want put your plants, cut holes in the liner or carpet and put your plants back in. This will smother the weeds but you can still have your plants ect. use the bark mulch or agrigate to hide the liner or carpet. cheap and easy.
Reply:you are right,don't use chemicals,try to turn the weeds gently and remove by roots
Reply:It is their home!
Reply:JMaybe taked all your flowers out carefully and get the dirt off and put newspaper or or something, that might work.
Reply:My husband and I are older retired people too so I know what you are talking about. It gets harder with each passing year, doesn't it!?!
How about doing away with your flower bed and let the lawn take over.
For flowers, do what we do which is buy containers (pots) that are 14" across the top,
fill with 25 lbs of good potting soil (we use Miracle-Gro with Plant Food),
dig in some slow-release fertilizer (we use Osmocote) and water in well,
plant your flowers.
No bending, no weeds, nothing to do but water.
I think we have five 14" containers and three long containers.
Here is one that you will like and a booklet comes with it.....you can buy the complete kit which has soil and fertilizer, or just the box:
http://www.earthbox.com
Go to this website for combinations of plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/re...
Reply:I read online one time that you put down some newspaper under the mulch and soak it in water, it helps to kill the weeks. If I were put, I would put down the layer of plastic, then some newspaper, then top it off with mulch and see how that helps.
Reply:Hire a neighborhood kid to pull the weeds if you are unable to do it yourself. There is nothing to keep weeds out other than manual labor or try spot killing with a weed killer. Keep it far away from the shrubs.
Is there anyway to keep weeds out of a flower bed?
Well its alot of work, but so worth it, you will need a roll of Weed Guard, you put this on the ground preferably before you plant for easiest installation, if you have already planted, you will need to cut holes for the plants to fit through or go around it. Then on top of this Weed Guard you can put pine nuggets or cedar chips, this works dually to keep out weeds.
Reply:I find that planting many plants close together eliminates a lot of weeding ,and of course as soon as soon as you see the weeds pull them out by the roots!
Reply:The more things you plant in an area and keep it full of flowers, there won't be much room for weeds to grow. Plant some perrenials that will come up every year and then some annuals. But leave very little room for weeds to grow. As far as a weed killer. they are made to not kill the other things around them and plus they make sprays that have little spry nozzles that u can pinpoint exactly where u want to spray so you won't get it on anything else.
Reply:Roundup only kills when it gets on the leaves. Depending on the layout, you could carefully spray only on the weeds.
Other than that, mulch would be your best bet. That and simply pulling weeds. If you don't have the energy yourselves, maybe you can pay neighborhood kids to do it -- similar to paying a kid to mow your yard. Of course, you'll probably want to be out there with them to make sure they don't pull out the plants you want to keep!
Reply:what you can do, if possible, is to (when its spring time.)
Get some liner, or an old carpet will do it. Pull up your plants gently, lay the liner or carpet over your flower bed, then where you want put your plants, cut holes in the liner or carpet and put your plants back in. This will smother the weeds but you can still have your plants ect. use the bark mulch or agrigate to hide the liner or carpet. cheap and easy.
Reply:you are right,don't use chemicals,try to turn the weeds gently and remove by roots
Reply:It is their home!
Reply:JMaybe taked all your flowers out carefully and get the dirt off and put newspaper or or something, that might work.
Reply:My husband and I are older retired people too so I know what you are talking about. It gets harder with each passing year, doesn't it!?!
How about doing away with your flower bed and let the lawn take over.
For flowers, do what we do which is buy containers (pots) that are 14" across the top,
fill with 25 lbs of good potting soil (we use Miracle-Gro with Plant Food),
dig in some slow-release fertilizer (we use Osmocote) and water in well,
plant your flowers.
No bending, no weeds, nothing to do but water.
I think we have five 14" containers and three long containers.
Here is one that you will like and a booklet comes with it.....you can buy the complete kit which has soil and fertilizer, or just the box:
http://www.earthbox.com
Go to this website for combinations of plants that look good together:
http://www.fernlea.com/awesomeaccents/re...
Reply:I read online one time that you put down some newspaper under the mulch and soak it in water, it helps to kill the weeks. If I were put, I would put down the layer of plastic, then some newspaper, then top it off with mulch and see how that helps.
Reply:Hire a neighborhood kid to pull the weeds if you are unable to do it yourself. There is nothing to keep weeds out other than manual labor or try spot killing with a weed killer. Keep it far away from the shrubs.
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