Landscaping: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Pictures of Poison Ivy
Pictures of poison ivy, as well as of similar vines, offered for identification purposes. These pictures of poison ivy show the vines at different stages of development and in different habitats.
Pictures of poison ivy, as well as of similar vines, offered for identification purposes. These pictures of poison ivy show the vines at different stages of development and in different habitats.
Cat Repellents
I'm often asked how to keep cats away from yards. The answer lies in cat repellents, whether by wire, water, or just plain understanding how feline pests think.
I'm often asked how to keep cats away from yards. The answer lies in cat repellents, whether by wire, water, or just plain understanding how feline pests think.
What Does Poison Ivy Look Like?
What does poison ivy look like? Photos do the best job of answering the question of what poison ivy looks like, thus this photo gallery.
What does poison ivy look like? Photos do the best job of answering the question of what poison ivy looks like, thus this photo gallery.
What the Young Leaves of Poison Ivy Look Like
Picture of young poison ivy leaves.
Picture of young poison ivy leaves.
Identifying Rhus Radicans
Need tips on how to get rid of poison ivy? Ortho Brush-B-Gon is an effective herbicide, but you can also get rid of these rash-causing plants using organic methods, killing them by pulling them up.
Need tips on how to get rid of poison ivy? Ortho Brush-B-Gon is an effective herbicide, but you can also get rid of these rash-causing plants using organic methods, killing them by pulling them up.
Poison Sumac Pictures
Consult these poison sumac pictures for identification purposes. My poison sumac pictures include closeup photos of the shrub's plant parts.
Consult these poison sumac pictures for identification purposes. My poison sumac pictures include closeup photos of the shrub's plant parts.
Young Leaflet Picture
Poison ivy leaflets are sometimes notched, a feature that may be especially prominent in young poison ivy leaves.
Poison ivy leaflets are sometimes notched, a feature that may be especially prominent in young poison ivy leaves.
Impatiens Flowers
Impatiens flowers are valued for the variety and vibrancy of their colors and their shade tolerance. The 'Super Elfin' series is one of the more popular groups of impatiens flowers.
Impatiens flowers are valued for the variety and vibrancy of their colors and their shade tolerance. The 'Super Elfin' series is one of the more popular groups of impatiens flowers.
Uses for Vinegar
The organic gardener sometimes uses vinegar as a natural weed killer. It's non-selective, so be careful when using vinegar as a natural weed killer.
The organic gardener sometimes uses vinegar as a natural weed killer. It's non-selective, so be careful when using vinegar as a natural weed killer.
Attracting Hummingbirds
The top 10 flowers to attract hummingbirds to your yard. In addition to attracting hummingbirds with plants, these flower gardening ideas are presented with aesthetic considerations in mind.
The top 10 flowers to attract hummingbirds to your yard. In addition to attracting hummingbirds with plants, these flower gardening ideas are presented with aesthetic considerations in mind.
Getting Rid of Crabgrass
What's the best way of killing crabgrass? Using preemergent herbicides is the best way to get rid of crab grass, but killing the weed begins with proper identification, to which end I provide pictures to help with your weed control.
What's the best way of killing crabgrass? Using preemergent herbicides is the best way to get rid of crab grass, but killing the weed begins with proper identification, to which end I provide pictures to help with your weed control.
Azaleas and Rhododendrons
Introduction to care for azalea and rhododendron plants. Tips on pruning and planting azaleas and rhododendrons.
Introduction to care for azalea and rhododendron plants. Tips on pruning and planting azaleas and rhododendrons.
Vines Growing on Wall
Picture of poison ivy vine growing on a stone wall.
Picture of poison ivy vine growing on a stone wall.
Pictures of the Flower Buds
Picture of Poison Ivy Flower Buds
Picture of Poison Ivy Flower Buds
Build a Backyard Waterfall
To build outdoor waterfalls (see photo), you normally need to exploit an elevated area on your property, or else erect a berm to create such an area. But a simple and cheap way to build outdoor waterfalls is to erect cascading stone spillways that hang right over your pond.
To build outdoor waterfalls (see photo), you normally need to exploit an elevated area on your property, or else erect a berm to create such an area. But a simple and cheap way to build outdoor waterfalls is to erect cascading stone spillways that hang right over your pond.
Leaves of Young Poison Ivy Plants
Picture of poison ivy. Young poison ivy plants start out with reddish leaves.
Picture of poison ivy. Young poison ivy plants start out with reddish leaves.
Tips for Growing Green Lawns
Is the grass always greener on the other side, i.e., your neighbor's yard? These tips for growing green lawns will remedy that, putting a green lawn within your reach.
Is the grass always greener on the other side, i.e., your neighbor's yard? These tips for growing green lawns will remedy that, putting a green lawn within your reach.
Forbidden Flowers -- Photo of the Vine In Bloom
Picture of poison ivy flowers. As this picture shows, poison ivy flowers are rather unremarkable.
Picture of poison ivy flowers. As this picture shows, poison ivy flowers are rather unremarkable.
Install French Drains
Installing French drains is one option for providing yard drainage on properties where there is excessive moisture. The wetness from saturated soil on a slope can be re-routed to an area less harmful to the homeowner using French drains as a yard drainage solution.
Installing French drains is one option for providing yard drainage on properties where there is excessive moisture. The wetness from saturated soil on a slope can be re-routed to an area less harmful to the homeowner using French drains as a yard drainage solution.
Rose of Sharon
Rose of sharon bush is a deciduous flowering shrub, sometimes thought of as a small tree. Responsive to pruning, these bushes can be used to form a summertime hedge to secure privacy for swimming pool areas.
Rose of sharon bush is a deciduous flowering shrub, sometimes thought of as a small tree. Responsive to pruning, these bushes can be used to form a summertime hedge to secure privacy for swimming pool areas.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Picture of Color Changes
Picture of an orangy poison ivy leaf. The color of poison ivy can morph from red to orange to green.
Picture of an orangy poison ivy leaf. The color of poison ivy can morph from red to orange to green.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Ripened Berries
Picture of the white berries of poison ivy. When poison ivy berries ripen, they turn white, as this picture shows.
Picture of the white berries of poison ivy. When poison ivy berries ripen, they turn white, as this picture shows.
Foxglove Plants
Foxglove flowers (Digitalis purpurea) will thrive in shade and tolerate dry soil, although they prefer moderate moisture. Foxglove plants are poisonous, although they are also used medicinally.
Foxglove flowers (Digitalis purpurea) will thrive in shade and tolerate dry soil, although they prefer moderate moisture. Foxglove plants are poisonous, although they are also used medicinally.
Planting Zones
Definition of planting zones. The USDA puts out a hardiness map to which we refer when discussing whether particular specimens will survive in particular regions -- in other words, their planting zones.
Definition of planting zones. The USDA puts out a hardiness map to which we refer when discussing whether particular specimens will survive in particular regions -- in other words, their planting zones.
How to Build Rock Gardens
This tutorial illustrates how to build rock gardens. The look of rock gardens is enhanced if attention is paid to color choices (both for the stones and for the plants).
This tutorial illustrates how to build rock gardens. The look of rock gardens is enhanced if attention is paid to color choices (both for the stones and for the plants).
Groundhog Day - Garden Pests
Ignoring the signs communicated by woodchucks, AKA the "groundhogs" (also spelled "ground hogs") introduced
Ignoring the signs communicated by woodchucks, AKA the "groundhogs" (also spelled "ground hogs") introduced
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Picture of Fall Foliage
Picture of poison ivy with its fall foliage. Poison ivy leaves turn orange, yellow or red in fall.
Picture of poison ivy with its fall foliage. Poison ivy leaves turn orange, yellow or red in fall.
Voles
Garden pest identification is a first step in vole control (they're distinct from moles). Then you can work on getting rid of these 'field mice' or 'meadow mice.' It is essential to know that their holes are different from holes of moles.
Garden pest identification is a first step in vole control (they're distinct from moles). Then you can work on getting rid of these 'field mice' or 'meadow mice.' It is essential to know that their holes are different from holes of moles.
Plants to Attract Butterflies
Butterfly weed is one of the flowering plants used for attracting those colorful, winged insects to the garden. The focus here is on host plants for monarch and tiger and black swallowtail caterpillars.
Butterfly weed is one of the flowering plants used for attracting those colorful, winged insects to the garden. The focus here is on host plants for monarch and tiger and black swallowtail caterpillars.
Top 10 Shade Plants
My top 10 list of shade plants includes flowering dogwood trees, a favorite with wild birds. I geared the picks in my list so as to include the major categories of landscaping plants.
My top 10 list of shade plants includes flowering dogwood trees, a favorite with wild birds. I geared the picks in my list so as to include the major categories of landscaping plants.
Japanese Maples as Fall Fol...
Introduction to Japanese maple trees, including 'Bloodgood,' 'Crimson Queen' and red Japanese maples. Fall foliage described.
Introduction to Japanese maple trees, including 'Bloodgood,' 'Crimson Queen' and red Japanese maples. Fall foliage described.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Leaves of Three, Let It Be
Heard the well-known rhyme about poison ivy, 'Leaflets three, let it be?' This picture of poison ivy provides visual verification for the rhyme, 'Leaflets three, let it be.'
Heard the well-known rhyme about poison ivy, 'Leaflets three, let it be?' This picture of poison ivy provides visual verification for the rhyme, 'Leaflets three, let it be.'
Laying Sod
Laying sod to start new lawns begins with soil preparation. Laying sod to start new lawns has the advantage over seeding of being quicker.
Laying sod to start new lawns begins with soil preparation. Laying sod to start new lawns has the advantage over seeding of being quicker.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Picture of Aerial Roots
Have you wondered what those hairy vines are climbing up trees? That's poison ivy, the 'hairs' being the vines' aerial roots.
Have you wondered what those hairy vines are climbing up trees? That's poison ivy, the 'hairs' being the vines' aerial roots.
Full Sun Plants
Full-sun plants with drought-tolerance that are perennials are often perfect for rock gardens, for instance. Learn what qualifies as full-sun plants before you buy your perennials at the nursery.
Full-sun plants with drought-tolerance that are perennials are often perfect for rock gardens, for instance. Learn what qualifies as full-sun plants before you buy your perennials at the nursery.
Flagstone Patios
Laying flagstone patios in sand is not difficult, although the stone itself can be heavy. Laying a flagstone patio is like building a puzzle.
Laying flagstone patios in sand is not difficult, although the stone itself can be heavy. Laying a flagstone patio is like building a puzzle.
Seeding Lawns
Using seed for starting new lawns is cheaper than using sod. Learn the steps required for properly seeding lawns.
Using seed for starting new lawns is cheaper than using sod. Learn the steps required for properly seeding lawns.
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- Picture of Autumn Foliage
Picture of the autumn foliage of poison ivy plants. The autumn foliage of poison ivy plants ranges from orange to yellow to red.
Picture of the autumn foliage of poison ivy plants. The autumn foliage of poison ivy plants ranges from orange to yellow to red.
Brick Patios
How to build a brick patio. These step-by-step instructions, for designing and building a brick patio, are designed for beginners. Using a basket weave design pattern, you can build a brick patio without cutting a single brick. This is an easy do-it-yourself project.
How to build a brick patio. These step-by-step instructions, for designing and building a brick patio, are designed for beginners. Using a basket weave design pattern, you can build a brick patio without cutting a single brick. This is an easy do-it-yourself project.
Tree Stump Removal
Removing tree stumps is possible without the aid of stump grinders. You can do it manually with mattocks or by applying nitrogen and waiting, which are cheaper alternatives.
Removing tree stumps is possible without the aid of stump grinders. You can do it manually with mattocks or by applying nitrogen and waiting, which are cheaper alternatives.
Pictures of Poison Ivy Look-Alikes
Poison ivy weeds have many look-alikes. These pictures of Virginia creeper will help distinguish poison ivy weeds from Virginia creeper.
Poison ivy weeds have many look-alikes. These pictures of Virginia creeper will help distinguish poison ivy weeds from Virginia creeper.
Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding hearts are perennial flowers and favorites in shade gardens. Give these plants of romance liberal doses of water after flowering to extend the life of their attractive but heat-sensitive foliage.
Bleeding hearts are perennial flowers and favorites in shade gardens. Give these plants of romance liberal doses of water after flowering to extend the life of their attractive but heat-sensitive foliage.
Pictures of Vines Mistaken for Poison Ivy
Virginia creeper is among the vine plants similar to poison ivy. Other vine plants similar to poison ivy include bittersweet.
Virginia creeper is among the vine plants similar to poison ivy. Other vine plants similar to poison ivy include bittersweet.
Privacy Fences
Privacy fences are often an essential feature of the urban or suburban yard, and they may even play a
Privacy fences are often an essential feature of the urban or suburban yard, and they may even play a
Pictures of Poison Ivy -- "Beware of Vine!"
Picture of poison ivy climbing a clapboard-sided building. Poison ivy's aerial roots allow it to climb structures.
Picture of poison ivy climbing a clapboard-sided building. Poison ivy's aerial roots allow it to climb structures.
Installing Landscape Fabrics
Landscape fabrics are a high-tech solution for weed control. Landscape fabrics suppress weeds without depriving the soil of air, water and nutrients.
Landscape fabrics are a high-tech solution for weed control. Landscape fabrics suppress weeds without depriving the soil of air, water and nutrients.
Hedge Plants
Hedge plants may serve the practical function of affording a property some security, or be purely decorative. Here I discuss some of the best shrubs to use for hedges and provide photos.
Hedge plants may serve the practical function of affording a property some security, or be purely decorative. Here I discuss some of the best shrubs to use for hedges and provide photos.
Front-Yard Landscaping
Front-yard landscaping ideas that work in suburban areas might not work in rural areas, and vice-versa. But these basic design ideas will give beginners sufficient tips to start a makeover, regardless of locale.
Front-yard landscaping ideas that work in suburban areas might not work in rural areas, and vice-versa. But these basic design ideas will give beginners sufficient tips to start a makeover, regardless of locale.
Climbing Hydrangeas
Climbing hydrangeas solve a problem for homeowners with shady areas to plant, being shade-tolerant vines. Climbing hydrangea vines do, however, flower more profusely if they receive some sunlight.
Climbing hydrangeas solve a problem for homeowners with shady areas to plant, being shade-tolerant vines. Climbing hydrangea vines do, however, flower more profusely if they receive some sunlight.
Columbine Flowers
Columbine flowers come in numerous colors. Of even greater value than their bold colors is the exquisite shape of columbine flowers, shown in my picture.
Columbine flowers come in numerous colors. Of even greater value than their bold colors is the exquisite shape of columbine flowers, shown in my picture.
Hens and Chickens
Hens and chicks plants (Latin name, Sempervivum tectorum) are surprisingly hardy perennials, for succulents. Plant hens and chickens (see picture) in rock gardens to take advantage of their drought-tolerance.
Hens and chicks plants (Latin name, Sempervivum tectorum) are surprisingly hardy perennials, for succulents. Plant hens and chickens (see picture) in rock gardens to take advantage of their drought-tolerance.
How to Kill Dandelions
Pictures of dandelions to help you identify them, plus tips on their removal or control. Killing dandelions with herbicides as a removal or control method is best done in fall.
Pictures of dandelions to help you identify them, plus tips on their removal or control. Killing dandelions with herbicides as a removal or control method is best done in fall.
Weed Pictures
My weed pictures include photos of plants you probably know -- but not by name. The weed pictures are supplemented by links to additional resources.
My weed pictures include photos of plants you probably know -- but not by name. The weed pictures are supplemented by links to additional resources.
Poison Oak Plants
How do you get rid of poison oak plants? Although you can kill them with the herbicides described here, getting rid of poison oak plants can also be accomplished manual removal.
How do you get rid of poison oak plants? Although you can kill them with the herbicides described here, getting rid of poison oak plants can also be accomplished manual removal.
Dry Shade Plants
Plants for dry shade meet a dual challenge: little water and little light. The plants for dry shade discussed in this article will tolerate these difficult conditions.
Plants for dry shade meet a dual challenge: little water and little light. The plants for dry shade discussed in this article will tolerate these difficult conditions.
Hosta Plants
Hosta plants do have flowers but are usually grown for their foliage. Their foliage color, as shown in the pictures provided, can be green, gold, or blue, and variegation is common.
Hosta plants do have flowers but are usually grown for their foliage. Their foliage color, as shown in the pictures provided, can be green, gold, or blue, and variegation is common.
Landscape Design
Landscape design ideas for the beginner and do-it-yourselfer. The basic landscape design ideas of color, form, line, scale and texture are introduced with pictures to illustrate how they play out in designing a garden.
Landscape design ideas for the beginner and do-it-yourselfer. The basic landscape design ideas of color, form, line, scale and texture are introduced with pictures to illustrate how they play out in designing a garden.
Simple Landscaping Ideas
Need some simple landscaping ideas? From designing front, back and side yards to how to start a garden, consult my simple landscaping ideas to learn ways to give your yard a makeover.
Need some simple landscaping ideas? From designing front, back and side yards to how to start a garden, consult my simple landscaping ideas to learn ways to give your yard a makeover.
Stella de Oro Daylily
Although individual Stella de Oro daylily flowers last only one day, the plant does an excellent job of reblooming. Hence the popularity of Stella de Oro daylily when seeking summer-long color.
Although individual Stella de Oro daylily flowers last only one day, the plant does an excellent job of reblooming. Hence the popularity of Stella de Oro daylily when seeking summer-long color.
Building Retaining Walls
Tutorial on building retaining walls out of natural stone, three feet in height or less. Building retaining walls from natural stone without mortar has its limitations but also some benefits.
Tutorial on building retaining walls out of natural stone, three feet in height or less. Building retaining walls from natural stone without mortar has its limitations but also some benefits.
Stone Walkways
Learn how to build stone walkways, if you need to create a sturdy, attractive path from Point A to Point B. You can build a stone walkway that is either curved or straight.
Learn how to build stone walkways, if you need to create a sturdy, attractive path from Point A to Point B. You can build a stone walkway that is either curved or straight.
Fence Pictures
These fence pictures illustrate some of your options for fencing (the landscaping photos show different materials and styles). Among the landscaping photos are fence pictures displaying plantings.
These fence pictures illustrate some of your options for fencing (the landscaping photos show different materials and styles). Among the landscaping photos are fence pictures displaying plantings.
Poison Sumac Pictures -- Compound Leaves
Picture of poison sumac leaves. Poison sumac has pinnately compound leaves.
Picture of poison sumac leaves. Poison sumac has pinnately compound leaves.
'Emerald Green' Arborvitae
'Emerald Green' arborvitae trees are evergreens. Technically shrubs, they have a foliage similar to Leyland cypress and are sometimes used as privacy screens or in other border plantings.
'Emerald Green' arborvitae trees are evergreens. Technically shrubs, they have a foliage similar to Leyland cypress and are sometimes used as privacy screens or in other border plantings.
Fertilizing Lawns
Tips are provided in this resource for fertilizing lawns. A schedule is provided for fertilizing lawns in spring, summer and fall.
Tips are provided in this resource for fertilizing lawns. A schedule is provided for fertilizing lawns in spring, summer and fall.
Pictures of Flowering Shrubs
Pictures of flowering shrubs can give you ideas for your own landscaping. Browse my shrub pictures to view photos of some of the finest blooming bushes of spring and summer.
Pictures of flowering shrubs can give you ideas for your own landscaping. Browse my shrub pictures to view photos of some of the finest blooming bushes of spring and summer.
Building Concrete Patios
How to build concrete patios. How to build forms, install drainage for concrete patios, use automatic cement mixers, make use of unwanted garden rock and pour.
How to build concrete patios. How to build forms, install drainage for concrete patios, use automatic cement mixers, make use of unwanted garden rock and pour.
Poison Sumac Pictures -- Swamp Shrub
Photo of poison sumac plant.
Photo of poison sumac plant.
Chrysanthemums
The chrysanthemums discussed here are 'hardy mums,' which are most likely to produce chrysanthemum flowers for Northern gardeners. Care for hardy mums includes dividing, pinching and providing winter protection.
The chrysanthemums discussed here are 'hardy mums,' which are most likely to produce chrysanthemum flowers for Northern gardeners. Care for hardy mums includes dividing, pinching and providing winter protection.
Elephant Ear Plants
Elephant ear plants are tropical but can be overwintered in cold climates in containers. Keep your elephant ear plants in a cool, but not freezing basement or garage.
Elephant ear plants are tropical but can be overwintered in cold climates in containers. Keep your elephant ear plants in a cool, but not freezing basement or garage.
Landscaping Pictures
Home landscaping pictures can provide you with numerous ideas for creating your own beautiful yard. These home photos give free examples of some of the basic components found in beautiful yards.
Home landscaping pictures can provide you with numerous ideas for creating your own beautiful yard. These home photos give free examples of some of the basic components found in beautiful yards.
Planting Flower Beds
Practice layering when planting flower beds, and preventative weed control. These are just 2 tips I offer here, as we go from back to front row of a sample bed.
Practice layering when planting flower beds, and preventative weed control. These are just 2 tips I offer here, as we go from back to front row of a sample bed.
Creeping Phlox Plants
Creeping phlox plants (P. subulata) do best in full sun. A slope with well-drained soil, rich in humus, can be covered with these plants as a groundcover to prevent erosion.
Creeping phlox plants (P. subulata) do best in full sun. A slope with well-drained soil, rich in humus, can be covered with these plants as a groundcover to prevent erosion.
Backyard Landscaping
Before you contemplate specific backyard landscaping designs, you have to ask yourself some basic questions.
Before you contemplate specific backyard landscaping designs, you have to ask yourself some basic questions.
Redtwig Dogwoods
Plant Taxonomy of Red Twig Dogwoods: Plant taxonomy classifies the red twig dogwoods (or "redtwig" dogwoods)
Plant Taxonomy of Red Twig Dogwoods: Plant taxonomy classifies the red twig dogwoods (or "redtwig" dogwoods)
Japanese Yews
English yew bushes are widely used for foundation plants or in hedges, while a number of cultivars of Japanese yews exist and also serve as foundation plants or in hedges.
English yew bushes are widely used for foundation plants or in hedges, while a number of cultivars of Japanese yews exist and also serve as foundation plants or in hedges.
Virginia Creeper
Killing Virginia creeper is best achieved at trunk level, as it can climb 50 ft. Many wonder if Virginia creeper is 'poisonous' in the sense that poison ivy is....
Killing Virginia creeper is best achieved at trunk level, as it can climb 50 ft. Many wonder if Virginia creeper is 'poisonous' in the sense that poison ivy is....
Removing Poison Ivy
Removing poison ivy from your yard is probably easier than remembering to avoid those 'leaflets 3.' Read my tips on how to remove this weed to do the job safely.
Removing poison ivy from your yard is probably easier than remembering to avoid those 'leaflets 3.' Read my tips on how to remove this weed to do the job safely.
English Boxwoods
English boxwood shrubs are true dwarfs, keeping a rounded, compact form. English boxwoods make excellent hedges and topiaries.
English boxwood shrubs are true dwarfs, keeping a rounded, compact form. English boxwoods make excellent hedges and topiaries.
Ornamental Grasses
Use these ornamental grass pictures and their accompanying descriptions to learn more about one of the best examples of low-maintenance plants -- the ornamental grasses.
Use these ornamental grass pictures and their accompanying descriptions to learn more about one of the best examples of low-maintenance plants -- the ornamental grasses.
Top 10 List of Weeping Trees
Of the weeping trees, some of the Japanese cherry trees are certainly among the most spectacular. These specimens have a drooping habit and lovely blossoms, making them landscaping standouts.
Of the weeping trees, some of the Japanese cherry trees are certainly among the most spectacular. These specimens have a drooping habit and lovely blossoms, making them landscaping standouts.
Treatment for Poison Ivy Rash
Did you know you may have a treatment for poison ivy rash or poison oak rash growing in your own backyard?
Did you know you may have a treatment for poison ivy rash or poison oak rash growing in your own backyard?
Flowering Trumpet Vines
Information on the many landscape design functions filled by popular flowering vines, such as trumpet vines. Pros and cons of trumpet creeper, other flowering vines, and their uses.
Information on the many landscape design functions filled by popular flowering vines, such as trumpet vines. Pros and cons of trumpet creeper, other flowering vines, and their uses.
Transplanting Shrubs and Trees
Here are easy steps to follow for shrub and tree transplanting. Learn how to dig the holes and move the plants, plus care after installation.
Here are easy steps to follow for shrub and tree transplanting. Learn how to dig the holes and move the plants, plus care after installation.
Drought Tolerant Plants
Grow drought-tolerant plants in sunny perennial beds that are pounded by sunlight all day. I offer pictures of such perennial flowers and a landscape plan suitable for dry areas with poor to average soils.
Grow drought-tolerant plants in sunny perennial beds that are pounded by sunlight all day. I offer pictures of such perennial flowers and a landscape plan suitable for dry areas with poor to average soils.
Lamb's Ear Plants
Lamb's ears (Stachys byzantina) are drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. Such features make these fuzzy plants excellent choices for low-maintenance rock garden plants.
Lamb's ears (Stachys byzantina) are drought-tolerant and deer-resistant. Such features make these fuzzy plants excellent choices for low-maintenance rock garden plants.
Alberta Spruce
Dwarf Alberta spruce trees will eventually reach 6' in height, but only over a long period of time. The green needles have a tight, densely-packed growth habit that gives dwarf Alberta spruce trees a 'fuzzy' look.
Dwarf Alberta spruce trees will eventually reach 6' in height, but only over a long period of time. The green needles have a tight, densely-packed growth habit that gives dwarf Alberta spruce trees a 'fuzzy' look.
Dog Repellents
A problem with dog repellents that are sprinkled or sprayed on the ground is the need to reapply them after a rain. On the upside, though, 2 dog repellents in this class are available right off the kitchen shelf.
A problem with dog repellents that are sprinkled or sprayed on the ground is the need to reapply them after a rain. On the upside, though, 2 dog repellents in this class are available right off the kitchen shelf.
Small Water Features
A small, cheap water fountain project for do it yourselfers. Fountains and other water features involving artifical ponds greatly enhance outdoor living spaces.
A small, cheap water fountain project for do it yourselfers. Fountains and other water features involving artifical ponds greatly enhance outdoor living spaces.
How to Kill Grass
Organic gardeners often wonder how to kill grass and eliminate lawns without using herbicides. There's a natural way to kill grass before opening up planting beds.
Organic gardeners often wonder how to kill grass and eliminate lawns without using herbicides. There's a natural way to kill grass before opening up planting beds.
Landscape Design Photos
If you need landscape design photos to inspire ideas for your own yard, study these pictures illustrating some basic principles and learn about the concepts the pros employ.
If you need landscape design photos to inspire ideas for your own yard, study these pictures illustrating some basic principles and learn about the concepts the pros employ.
Salvia Flowers
Although the scarlet plants are the best known, 'annual' salvia flowers do come in other colors, including white, salmon, pink, purple, lavender, burgundy and orange. Salvia flowers, in their native lands, are perennial plants.
Although the scarlet plants are the best known, 'annual' salvia flowers do come in other colors, including white, salmon, pink, purple, lavender, burgundy and orange. Salvia flowers, in their native lands, are perennial plants.
Forsythia Bushes
Sometimes misspelled as 'forsynthia' or 'forcynthia,' border forsythia bushes are shrubs best known for ushering in spring. Care tips (including pruning) offered for border forsythias (intermedia hybrid).
Sometimes misspelled as 'forsynthia' or 'forcynthia,' border forsythia bushes are shrubs best known for ushering in spring. Care tips (including pruning) offered for border forsythias (intermedia hybrid).
Sumach Shrubs
Distinguish poison sumac shrubs from their harmless namesakes and consider the latter for great fall foliage, such as typifies New England. There are many varieties that display brilliant fall foliage and that are quite distinct from poison sumac shrubs.
Distinguish poison sumac shrubs from their harmless namesakes and consider the latter for great fall foliage, such as typifies New England. There are many varieties that display brilliant fall foliage and that are quite distinct from poison sumac shrubs.
Landscaping With Dogs
Landscaping with dogs requires serious compromises. Strategies for landscaping with dogs may force you to alter plans that you would otherwise have for your yard, for instance, avoiding extensive lawns that will only be stained by their urine.
Landscaping with dogs requires serious compromises. Strategies for landscaping with dogs may force you to alter plans that you would otherwise have for your yard, for instance, avoiding extensive lawns that will only be stained by their urine.
Gerbera Daisy Flowers
Taxonomy of Gerbera Daisy Flowers: Plant taxonomy classifies gerbera daisy flowers as Gerbera jamesonii
Taxonomy of Gerbera Daisy Flowers: Plant taxonomy classifies gerbera daisy flowers as Gerbera jamesonii
Pictures of Landscaping for Front Door Entrances
Pictures of landscaping showing examples of front door entrances. Using symmetry is a popular way to set off front door entrances, but as these pictures of landscaping show, there are a variety of possible styles for entryway plantings.
Pictures of landscaping showing examples of front door entrances. Using symmetry is a popular way to set off front door entrances, but as these pictures of landscaping show, there are a variety of possible styles for entryway plantings.
Poison Sumac Pictures -- The Spring Berry
Picture of poison sumac berries.
Picture of poison sumac berries.
poisonous-plants
Pictures of poisonous plants can help you to identify and avoid them. My list of toxic plants includes not only pictures of vegetation, berries, etc. that you shouldn't eat, but also photos of weeds that cause rashes on contact.
Pictures of poisonous plants can help you to identify and avoid them. My list of toxic plants includes not only pictures of vegetation, berries, etc. that you shouldn't eat, but also photos of weeds that cause rashes on contact.
Burning Bush Shrubs
Information on burning bush shrubs, those popular but invasive plants. These colorful shrubs display spectacular fall foliage, but the plants are starting to be classified as 'illegal aliens.'
Information on burning bush shrubs, those popular but invasive plants. These colorful shrubs display spectacular fall foliage, but the plants are starting to be classified as 'illegal aliens.'
Flower Pictures
The lists of flowers (with pictures) here are organized by color (all those with blue blossoms grouped together, etc.). Browse these galleries to gain some ideas for color in your landscape designs.
The lists of flowers (with pictures) here are organized by color (all those with blue blossoms grouped together, etc.). Browse these galleries to gain some ideas for color in your landscape designs.
Poison Sumac Pictures -- The Leaflets
Picture of poison sumac leaflets.
Picture of poison sumac leaflets.
Bee Balm
Plant Taxonomy of Red Bee Balm: Plant taxonomy classifies the bee balm plants (or "beebalm") with which
Plant Taxonomy of Red Bee Balm: Plant taxonomy classifies the bee balm plants (or "beebalm") with which
Lantana Plants
Lantana plants are a tropical shrub and a symbol of Florida landscaping, their salt-tolerance making them a favorite in seashore communities. Many gardeners grow these lovely flowers in the North, too; wherever you landscape, learn first about their pros and cons.
Lantana plants are a tropical shrub and a symbol of Florida landscaping, their salt-tolerance making them a favorite in seashore communities. Many gardeners grow these lovely flowers in the North, too; wherever you landscape, learn first about their pros and cons.
Diablo Ninebark
Diablo ninebark plants are deciduous flowering shrubs. Native to North America, Diablo (or 'Diabolo') ninebark plants may be hardy as far north as zone 2 but is commonly listed for zone 3-7.
Diablo ninebark plants are deciduous flowering shrubs. Native to North America, Diablo (or 'Diabolo') ninebark plants may be hardy as far north as zone 2 but is commonly listed for zone 3-7.
Reel Lawn Mowers
Consumer product review of reel lawn mowers, as an alternative to rotary machines. Reel lawn mowers are quiet, safe, pollution-free, maintenance-free and cheap.
Consumer product review of reel lawn mowers, as an alternative to rotary machines. Reel lawn mowers are quiet, safe, pollution-free, maintenance-free and cheap.
Privet Hedges
Privet hedges (ligustrum shrubs) are traditional favorites, being amenable to pruning. But ligustrum shrubs are invasive plants in North America, meaning privet hedges may soon belong to a bygone era.
Privet hedges (ligustrum shrubs) are traditional favorites, being amenable to pruning. But ligustrum shrubs are invasive plants in North America, meaning privet hedges may soon belong to a bygone era.
Poison Sumac Pictures -- The Stems
Its red stems help identify poison sumac.
Its red stems help identify poison sumac.
Mock Orange Plants
Taxonomy of Mock Orange Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies mock orange, or "mockorange", as Philadelphus
Taxonomy of Mock Orange Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies mock orange, or "mockorange", as Philadelphus
The Easter Rabbit
Here I discuss repellents for wild rabbits, Havahart traps and other pest-control option. These pests can often be controlled through natural, organic methods.
Here I discuss repellents for wild rabbits, Havahart traps and other pest-control option. These pests can often be controlled through natural, organic methods.
Planting Hedges
This step-by-step tutorial walks you through the steps in planting hedges. Through pictures I show you how to plant boxwood hedges.
This step-by-step tutorial walks you through the steps in planting hedges. Through pictures I show you how to plant boxwood hedges.
Weed Identification
Weed identification pictures are helpful in control efforts against unwanted vines and other pests. In some cases, identifying the enemy via photos may even alter your desire for eradication of the plant.
Weed identification pictures are helpful in control efforts against unwanted vines and other pests. In some cases, identifying the enemy via photos may even alter your desire for eradication of the plant.
Peony Plants
Taxonomy of Peony Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies peony plants under the genus, Paeonia . Within the
Taxonomy of Peony Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies peony plants under the genus, Paeonia . Within the
Pictures of Vines
Let these climbing vine pictures serve to generate ideas for your own landscaping. My pictures of vines include flowering types and evergreen types.
Let these climbing vine pictures serve to generate ideas for your own landscaping. My pictures of vines include flowering types and evergreen types.
Long-Blooming Perennials
Long-blooming perennials can furnish garden color all summer, especially with a little deadheading, dividing, etc. on your part. Learn about some popular kinds of long-blooming perennials in this article.
Long-blooming perennials can furnish garden color all summer, especially with a little deadheading, dividing, etc. on your part. Learn about some popular kinds of long-blooming perennials in this article.
Building Dry Creek Beds
Building dry creek beds for landscape drainage is an easy landscaping project, provided that the soil you'll be excavating isn't strewn with roots and rocks. Once the digging is done, you'll build a dry creek bed laying weed-suppressing fabric and covering it with river rock, mortared in place.
Building dry creek beds for landscape drainage is an easy landscaping project, provided that the soil you'll be excavating isn't strewn with roots and rocks. Once the digging is done, you'll build a dry creek bed laying weed-suppressing fabric and covering it with river rock, mortared in place.
English Ivy
Information on English ivy plants, including a picture. English ivy plants are traditional groundcovers, but have fallen out of favor in North America due to their invasiveness.
Information on English ivy plants, including a picture. English ivy plants are traditional groundcovers, but have fallen out of favor in North America due to their invasiveness.
Mountain Laurel Shrubs
My description of mountain laurel shrubs is supplemented by pictures. I draw a distinction between these shrubs and the bay laurel trees made famous by the Greeks and Romans.
My description of mountain laurel shrubs is supplemented by pictures. I draw a distinction between these shrubs and the bay laurel trees made famous by the Greeks and Romans.
Types of Wood Fences
Wood fence designs are often selected to match house styles. Among the types of wood fences are the stockade, post-and-rail and picket styles.
Wood fence designs are often selected to match house styles. Among the types of wood fences are the stockade, post-and-rail and picket styles.
Landscape Trees
What are the best types of landscape trees for your yard, especially for autumn? In this piece I help you choose landscape trees to liven up your yard in autumn and all seasons.
What are the best types of landscape trees for your yard, especially for autumn? In this piece I help you choose landscape trees to liven up your yard in autumn and all seasons.
Lilac Bushes
Common lilac bushes bloom in late spring, unlike forsythia shrubs, which bloom earlier in the spring. Plant them in conjunction with the latter, to extend the period that your yard experiences the color provided by flowering bushes and trees.
Common lilac bushes bloom in late spring, unlike forsythia shrubs, which bloom earlier in the spring. Plant them in conjunction with the latter, to extend the period that your yard experiences the color provided by flowering bushes and trees.
Building Decks
DIYers should consult my guide to building decks for help. I offer step-by-step instruction on do-it-yourself deck construction and design.
DIYers should consult my guide to building decks for help. I offer step-by-step instruction on do-it-yourself deck construction and design.
Pictures of Flowering Trees
Why view these pictures of flowering trees? Because I supplement my pictures of flowering trees with links to resources on growing them.
Why view these pictures of flowering trees? Because I supplement my pictures of flowering trees with links to resources on growing them.
English Lavender Plants
Taxonomy of English Lavender Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies English lavender plants as Lavandula angustifolia
Taxonomy of English Lavender Plants: Plant taxonomy classifies English lavender plants as Lavandula angustifolia
Landscape Edging
Learn how to install lawn edging so as to reduce yard maintenance. Edging keeps grass stolons out of landscape beds; incorporating a mowing strip into your lawn facilitates mowing.
Learn how to install lawn edging so as to reduce yard maintenance. Edging keeps grass stolons out of landscape beds; incorporating a mowing strip into your lawn facilitates mowing.
Hinoki Cypress
Slender Hinoki cypress trees are semi-dwarf Hinoki cypresses, being more compact than the species trees but not as short as 'Nana Gracilis,' the true dwarf.
Slender Hinoki cypress trees are semi-dwarf Hinoki cypresses, being more compact than the species trees but not as short as 'Nana Gracilis,' the true dwarf.
Liriope Grass
Liriope spicata, also called 'lilyturf' or 'border grass,' is a deer-resistant ornamental grass. This plant can, indeed, be used as a 'border grass' in areas of dry shade.
Liriope spicata, also called 'lilyturf' or 'border grass,' is a deer-resistant ornamental grass. This plant can, indeed, be used as a 'border grass' in areas of dry shade.
Sweet Alyssum
Plant Taxonomy for Sweet Alyssum: Plant taxonomy classifies sweet alyssum plants as Lobularia maritima
Plant Taxonomy for Sweet Alyssum: Plant taxonomy classifies sweet alyssum plants as Lobularia maritima
Itchy Rash Weeds
Itchy rash plants are the plant kingdom's answer to yellow jackets and mosquitoes. As if it weren't bad enough watching out for the burning sting that yellow jackets inflict, there's an itchy rash plant (stinging nettles) that can also 'burn' you.
Itchy rash plants are the plant kingdom's answer to yellow jackets and mosquitoes. As if it weren't bad enough watching out for the burning sting that yellow jackets inflict, there's an itchy rash plant (stinging nettles) that can also 'burn' you.
Snow-In-Summer Plants
Snow-in-summer plants (Cerastium tomentosum) are perennial flowers that can thrive in dry, sunny areas. Snow-in-summer plants are often used in rock gardens for this reason.
Snow-in-summer plants (Cerastium tomentosum) are perennial flowers that can thrive in dry, sunny areas. Snow-in-summer plants are often used in rock gardens for this reason.
Landscape Mulch
Landscape mulch properly used will promote plant health and the appearance of your garden. Some types may lower soil pH slightly, but this tendency can be counteracted by applying lime to the soil.
Landscape mulch properly used will promote plant health and the appearance of your garden. Some types may lower soil pH slightly, but this tendency can be counteracted by applying lime to the soil.
Low-Maintenance Landscaping
Ten tips to take to heart if you're serious about low-maintenance landscaping. Since watering plants can be time-consuming, a big part of low-maintenance landscaping is properly managing your plants' water needs.
Ten tips to take to heart if you're serious about low-maintenance landscaping. Since watering plants can be time-consuming, a big part of low-maintenance landscaping is properly managing your plants' water needs.
Landscaping Pictures: Photo Gallery
A photo gallery of landscaping pictures for front-yard design ideas. Let these landscaping pictures inspire you in your DIY front-yard design projects.
A photo gallery of landscaping pictures for front-yard design ideas. Let these landscaping pictures inspire you in your DIY front-yard design projects.
Christmas Holly Trees
Holly plants vary greatly in size and shape and are popular as landscaping shrubs and trees. The focus of this article is on the growing requirements and uses of American holly tree (Ilex opaca), winterberry shrub (Ilex verticillata) and 'Little Red.'
Holly plants vary greatly in size and shape and are popular as landscaping shrubs and trees. The focus of this article is on the growing requirements and uses of American holly tree (Ilex opaca), winterberry shrub (Ilex verticillata) and 'Little Red.'
Japanese Knotweed Eradication
This article supplies a description of the habitats in which Japanese knotweed plants thrive (picture included), an understanding of which helps you develop eradication strategies. How to get rid of these plants has become a hot topic in the U.K. and parts of the U.S.
This article supplies a description of the habitats in which Japanese knotweed plants thrive (picture included), an understanding of which helps you develop eradication strategies. How to get rid of these plants has become a hot topic in the U.K. and parts of the U.S.
Garden Arbor Design
I supply an overview, with pictures, for do it yourselfers wondering how to build garden arbors. Tips, supplies and tools are discussed, as well as shopping for cheap pressure-treated lumber.
I supply an overview, with pictures, for do it yourselfers wondering how to build garden arbors. Tips, supplies and tools are discussed, as well as shopping for cheap pressure-treated lumber.
Dwarf Trees
Dwarf trees, whether evergreen or deciduous, are quite popular in small yard design. Why? Because when you install dwarf trees in a small yard design, they don't quickly spike out of control, necessitating removal after a short period.
Dwarf trees, whether evergreen or deciduous, are quite popular in small yard design. Why? Because when you install dwarf trees in a small yard design, they don't quickly spike out of control, necessitating removal after a short period.
Landscape Color Schemes
Need some ideas for landscape color schemes? Browse these photos showing colorful plant combinations in action!
Need some ideas for landscape color schemes? Browse these photos showing colorful plant combinations in action!
Floating Decks
It's easy for DIYers to build floating decks, because they are not attached to a building. This tutorial (includes pictures of the small structure constructed) shows you how it's done.
It's easy for DIYers to build floating decks, because they are not attached to a building. This tutorial (includes pictures of the small structure constructed) shows you how it's done.
Annual Plants
What is an annual? In distinguishing between annual plants and perennials, it's all a matter of the life cycle.
What is an annual? In distinguishing between annual plants and perennials, it's all a matter of the life cycle.
Growing Zones
Growing zones are not meant to be restrictive; they serve, rather, as guides. The USDA provides these zone maps, broken down by region.
Growing zones are not meant to be restrictive; they serve, rather, as guides. The USDA provides these zone maps, broken down by region.
Grass Height
How high should grass be cut in fall? For the height of the grass in your lawn during the fall season, use the general rule of thumb....
How high should grass be cut in fall? For the height of the grass in your lawn during the fall season, use the general rule of thumb....
Spring Lawn Care
If you neglect spring lawn care, you'll pay for it the rest of the year. But while you shouldn't neglect it, spring lawn care doesn't require nearly as much time as mowing does in summer.
If you neglect spring lawn care, you'll pay for it the rest of the year. But while you shouldn't neglect it, spring lawn care doesn't require nearly as much time as mowing does in summer.
Vinca Minor Vines
Vinca minor vines are a popular choice of plants for with dry-shade areas. Vinca minor vines bear a bluish flower in spring.
Vinca minor vines are a popular choice of plants for with dry-shade areas. Vinca minor vines bear a bluish flower in spring.
Canadian Hemlock Trees
Eastern or 'Canadian' hemlock trees are long-lived evergreens. Many cultivars have been developed for landscape usage, including more compact ones useful in privacy hedges.
Eastern or 'Canadian' hemlock trees are long-lived evergreens. Many cultivars have been developed for landscape usage, including more compact ones useful in privacy hedges.
Shasta Daisies
Shasta daisy flowers are excellent plants for dry, sunny areas, as they are relatively drought-tolerant. 'Becky' shasta daisies bear flowers over a longer stretch of the summer than other varieties.
Shasta daisy flowers are excellent plants for dry, sunny areas, as they are relatively drought-tolerant. 'Becky' shasta daisies bear flowers over a longer stretch of the summer than other varieties.
Catnip Plants
Taxonomy of Catnip Plants : Plant taxonomy classifies catnip plants or "catmint" as Nepeta cataria .
Taxonomy of Catnip Plants : Plant taxonomy classifies catnip plants or "catmint" as Nepeta cataria .
Gold Mops False Cypress
The false cypress group (or 'falsecypress') has some shrubs with fantastic golden foliage listed under 'Chamaecyparis pisifera'. 'Gold Mop' false cypress (or 'Mops') and 'Gold Thread' are examples of such shrubs with golden foliage.
The false cypress group (or 'falsecypress') has some shrubs with fantastic golden foliage listed under 'Chamaecyparis pisifera'. 'Gold Mop' false cypress (or 'Mops') and 'Gold Thread' are examples of such shrubs with golden foliage.
Dogwood Trees
The top 10 flowering bushes and trees for spring landscaping. Information on flowering trees and bushes to light up your spring landscaping.
The top 10 flowering bushes and trees for spring landscaping. Information on flowering trees and bushes to light up your spring landscaping.
Blue Rug Juniper Plants
Blue Rug juniper plants and their relatives are sturdy groundcovers for sunny slopes. This article contains information on the use of Blue Rug juniper plants as groundcovers.
Blue Rug juniper plants and their relatives are sturdy groundcovers for sunny slopes. This article contains information on the use of Blue Rug juniper plants as groundcovers.