Blog

What Are The Benefits Of Irrigating Your Lawn?

Every homeowner wishes to have a lush, sprawling lawn in front of their house. A lawn can serve many purposes in addition to simple looking good and improving the visual appeal. To maintain a lawn, one needs to devote a considerable time in its upkeep, which involves watering the lawn, weeding out the unwanted growth and trimming the lawn regularly. Among these, watering the lawn adequately is one thing that can sometimes become extremely tedious, because one requires standing under the sun for hours. Not to mention, when you manually water your lawn, you waste a lot of water, so you can be assured that your water bill will not go easy on you.

A home irrigation system can significantly help you in reducing water wastage and getting a more reasonable water bill. You may think installing these will be expensive, but in the long run, they do prove to be very cost effective. Read on to know more about why you should install a home irrigation system, for your lawn.

1. It is cost effective.

Sprinklers used in home irrigation systems are designed to let out only the required amount of water according to the size and area of your lawn. This will reduce water wastage and therefore, your water bill as well. The sprinklers can be adjusted to let out the correct amount of water as well, so you can get a lush green lawn without fears of over-watering.

2. It is environmentally viable.

Because home irrigation systems waste much less water than manual methods, they are also environmentally friendly. For example, these systems can be adjusted to sprinkle more water during summer and lesser during winter, but in case you are doing it manually, you cannot really adjust the changes in water level on your own for different seasons.

3. It increases the value of your home.

A lush green lawn will look beautiful outside your home, and if it is equipped with a home irrigation system, that will make it ten times more attractive to potential buyers. This will ensure that you get a high return on your investment if you plan to sell your house later, which will definitely cover up the expenses you had to incur while installing the system.

4. It helps in preserving valuable soil nutrients.

Soil nutrients can get washed away by over watering; leaving the soil barren and this will eventually lead to a reduction in the green cover. Sprinklers will always ensure they only sprinkle the right amount of water and will thus preserve soil nutrients and the top soil from being washed away.

5. It is simply convenient.

If you have a big lawn, it is not practical to water it every day on your own. Having a home irrigation system will help your lawn look flawless even when you are away from home, since the sprinklers are optimised to work at regular intervals. The convenience that comes with installing these far outweighs the initial price of the installation.

Irrigation Water Management Tips for the Golf Course Superintendent

A well-maintained golf course, whether or not it is the season of the sport, entails the implementation of suitable and regular irrigation methodologies to keep the turf appropriate and ready. Turf health is directly affected by the source of irrigation and the system of delivery. There are a number of ways to maintain these details, such as the amount of water prerequisite for the irrigation, for instance. On the other hand, there are several other strategies that can be put in place to improve and aid in the upkeep of turf health and to make sure that the sources of water are kept in the best state as well.

Listed below are a few tips for irrigation water management for the golf course.

Audit the Irrigation System

Be certain to carry out a regular examination of the terrain of the golf course to inspect and identify the areas that need more attention and repairs. This would correlate to the enhancement of the efficacy of your irrigation water supply system. When examining, include all the documentation details and repairs pertaining to any operational malfunctioning of the irrigation heads, verification of the average output of the irrigation supply system, and any further improvements required for the dry or damp areas, which can be achieved by the regulation of the application time in these areas. Moreover, you must also look into the quality of the water being supplied routinely by collecting and inspecting samples and making any necessary changes corresponding to that data.
A proper irrigation application is marked by a scheduled irrigation. There is a possibility that tournaments, golf outings, or a play might be impeded due to this application. Nevertheless, it must remain your priority to stick to a fixed schedule to ensure the best upkeep of the terrain.

Lake Volume

It is advisable to have an approximate understanding of the lake volume so that the turf manager is competent to settle down on the amount of available irrigation water. For this purpose, a water measurement appliance could be deployed, which could further be amalgamated with the bathymetric data to arrive at the water availability data regardless of the climate. This data can also be combined and tallied with the results of the audit to structure the correct application amounts, while simultaneously having an indication of the amount of water that is left for the applications in the future.

Fertilizer and Pesticide

The turf manager needs to be conscientious of the right fertilizer and pesticide to applied onto the surface, both theoretically, and as a matter of practice. This is the reason why professional qualifications are favourable for a turf manager, as they would be aware of the chemicals and the corresponding reactions of the turf to them. A correctly fertilized turf would be functional all year round, even when the growing conditions are in swing. Nevertheless, over fertilization could hamper the health of the soil by necessitating too much water. On the contrary, under fertilization would engender the incapacitated of the plants to absorb nutrients from the soil. Apart from that, pesticides, inclusive of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides are also responsible for maintaining the health of the turf. With this too, the amount of water applied has to be optimally regulated to ensure that the plants are able to absorb all the nutrients.

 

If you would like to know more about these techniques, Pro Green Irrigation Services, based in Toronto, Canada, would be of great assistance for any consultancy or inspection regarding irrigation water management in the golf course.

 

How Are Sprinkler Systems Beneficial For Modern Homes

Sprinkler systems are very beneficial these days for the health and well-being of your lawn. Some people might think that sprinkler systems are expensive but in reality it is a one time investment with lifetime benefits and they are much affordable as well.

Specially when it comes to modern homes, sprinkler systems are a necessity because they are designed in a way to distribute the required amount of water to the grass and plants in order to keep them healthy.

Below given are some benefits of the sprinkler systems :

It saves your time :

• Sprinkler systems are designed in a way to distribute the correct amount of water across your plants and grass. Also, they are automatic and don’t require any manual assistance.
• These sprinkler systems automatically waters your lawn during the most appropriate time of the day. Hence you do not have to worry about watering your plants or grass because sprinkler systems will do the job very efficiently.
• Having an inground sprinkler system installed in your house will save your time and money both. It will allow you to concentrate on other important activities and at the same time will ensure that your plants get watered timely.

 

It is very convenient :

• Sprinkler systems are known to be very convenient because you do not have to pay attention to them all the time, in fact they will ensure that water is equally distributed across your whole lawn.
• When you go out of the town for a long period of time there’s no one behind to take care of your lawn but with sprinkler systems you need not to worry about that because they are designed in a way to deliver water across your lawn during the right hour of the day.
• Therefore, whenever you are out of town you can remain tension free because your plants are being properly taken care off.

 

Increases the value of your house :

• Having an inground sprinkler system installed increases the value of your home. Since your plants and grass is under check daily and are properly maintained, it enhances the look of your house and adds beauty to it.
• Even if you plan to sell your house in near future, having a sprinkler system will automatically increase the value of your home. Also, it will put a great impression on the potential buyer and he/she would easily agree to pay any amount for it.

 

It ensures the health of your plant :

• In the presence of sprinkler systems your plants remain under check and are automatically watered when needed. This ensures the health and well-being of your plants.
• Healthy plants add to the beauty of your lawn. Whenever someone visits your home seeing a wonderful and well maintained lawn puts a good first impression.
• Also, keeping your plants in good health and condition is very important because that is what makes your lawn appear good. Having an inground sprinkler system installed will ensure timely water and needed nutrients to your plants.

A Quick Guide to Design a Fine Home Garden

So, you watched a garden makeover on TV and now designing one for your home. Well, those professionals do make the entire process look easy, but once you start prepping, there might be challenges you may not be able to overcome.

Not to worry! There is nothing that has to overwhelm you. Just steer away from elements that can over-complicate the space and instead focus on a single and homogenous design – you can soon see everything falling in its place.

A properly maintained garden can then be a favorite place for your family, kids, and even pets to enjoy summer evenings and make a commendable contribution in adding to the value of your home.

However, before you run out to buy a bunch of plants, we would like to bring a few factors in your notice that are essential to understand and avoid the mistakes which most novice gardeners make. Here have a look:

1. Size of the Garden. You may not have to be precise here, but a little approximation is vital to decide how many plants and shrubs will appear good without looking like a jungle.
2. Weather Conditions. The direction or location of the area impacts the amount of sunlight and wind it will receive. The placement of other large trees nearby also plays a crucial role.
3. Proximity to the House. The distance of the garden from the house and its visibility from the street can be an important deciding factor for the kind of design you choose.
4. Soil Type. It can vary from place to place, and the plants you see on your neighborhood’s property may not work on yours. So, take a sample to the nursery to have it tested properly.
5. Moisture Content. Different areas in your garden can have different humidity level. Some spots may collect more water than others and become moister. Thus, inspect that beforehand.

Once, you understand these aspects; start your designing process with the following lawn professional tips in mind –

• Think about how you want to use the garden. Do you want to grow food or want a place to entertain and relax? Picture yourself in your future outdoor space and list down the must-have elements.
• Plan an evergreen planting. To punctuate the aesthetics of your garden, opt for small shrubs, large trees, and colorful flowering plants that bloom and remain healthy all year long. Pick a variety of heights for a harmonious effect.
• Use the grouping method. The larger grouping of plants appears restful to eyes. So, instead of one or two large numbers of plants, use more (maximum up to five to six) to enjoy better cohesiveness and coordination.
• Add wide pavements. The way your paving is styled and laid can create a strong direction. Also, a wider pathway is crucial to make up for comfortable passages. Thus, keep it no less than five feet, or else it can restrict the movement.
• Accentuate with lighting. You must envision how and when you want to use your outdoor spaces, and use landscape lighting That will assure you safety during the dark hours and also amp up the appearance of your garden.

Landscape Lighting Tips For Beginners

By installing a landscape lighting system to the exterior of your house can enhance the beauty and appeal of your house. But before planning on a landscape lighting you must keep certain things in your mind like know the outer areas of your house you want to light, choose the right lighting techniques and look for the fixtures and accessories to obtain the desired effect.

There are many types of landscape lighting. Some of them are as follows :

• Box shape : These lighting designs directly focus on light beams and cut off the glare in order to save the lamp and socket from moisture.
• Wall bracket : They are designed as to be mounted on the entry doors. Their lantern style design casts the light outward in a direct or diffused manner.
• Post lights : These lights cater to driveways, pools, steps or garden walking areas highlighting that particular area and enhancing the look of it.
• Well light or in – ground : They are used for lighting trees and shrubs and are also used for grazing of textured walls.

Therefore, it is very important to select the right kind of lighting that suits your landscape in order to make it attractive and appealing. Because that will enhance the beauty of your house.

 

Below stated are some landscape lighting tips for beginners:

• Observe the exterior of your house : The first step is to observe the exterior of your house and select which areas need lighting. This will give you a basic idea about your house and will allow you to select the best lighting. Without looking around your house you won’t be able to make out about the areas which need lighting and you won’t be able to judge its look after landscape lighting is installed.
• Decide the subject : You need to decide what basically you want to highlight in your design. Whether it is the landscape of your house, particular trees and shrubs, any fountain or the courtyard, you need to pick a particular subject. Mostly the lighting is done to the exterior of the house in order to enhance its outlook.
• Select the light : It is very important to select the right kind of lighting for your house in order for it to suit the environment. If you end up selecting the wrong lighting then you won’t receive the desired results. The primary choices for landscape lighting are flood lights, spotlights and path lights or even a combination of all three depending upon how you want your exterior house to look. Then after that you have to choose between LED, halogen or fluorescent lighting again depending upon the subject you want to decorate.
• Picking the right company for the job : Another essential decision is to select the right company for this work. Selection should be done on the basis of the company’s reputation, experience, client review and expertise. If you end up picking the wrong company then you won’t receive the results as per your expectations. But the right company will properly study your house and work according to your preferences which will lead to desired results.

Tips to Keep Your Garden Greener

How greener does your garden look? People are fond of having a beautiful backyard or landscaping, but when it comes to taking care of it, they suddenly become lethargic. Even if you are an intrepid landscape designer earnestly shaping topiaries and taking care of shrubs, you can still end up with an unhealthy garden due to lack of knowledge.

We would suggest people to not go harsh on their gardening plans, incorporating minimal things can add a lot to a healthy garden. The simplest jobs may involve using the right fertilizers, planting seasonal flowers, keeping them hydrated by using water irrigation systems and recycling the compost.

Here are some tips that will help you create a greener and healthier garden-

 

1) Keep the things real- 

Mother nature doesn’t need to rely on chemical concoctions of pesticides, weed killers, and chemical fertilizers to keep it healthy. Going for all-natural mixtures and compost can do the most of it and using the beneficial insect reinforcements to fight pesky backyard pests to the ground is all that’s needed.

 

2) Scrutinize plants before buying- 

The easiest way to get rid of disease damaged plants is to avoid introducing them into your space. Therefore, whenever you are plant-shopping, keep a magazine or your smartphone handy to search about it and to examine the areas that reveal whether a plant is disease-free or not?

If due to lack of awareness, you bring a diseased plant in your garden, it will soon damage the other species too, and you will be left with a dead garden.

 

3) Create compost from kitchen scrap-

Instead of throwing the kitchen scrap into the landfills, use it for your kitchen. Compost is known as the “gardener’s gold.” that enriches the soil and elevates the fertility by powering the plant-loving nutrients. Apart from stimulating the healthy root development, it enhances soil texture, aeration, and water retention.

 

4) Use easy watering techniques-

Adopting smart watering habits will help you save water and provide the most to your plants, especially during summers. Installing inground sprinkler systems is one of the efficient ways of watering your plants and saving water. They can sprinkle water, covering every area of the garden. Adding mulch and composite will help retain the water and protect it from evaporation.

 

5) Harvest rainwater-

Tap water contains some percentage of chlorine that affects plants. Therefore, counting on rainwater is another way to water your plants since the rain barrel is an inexpensive and effortless way to gather water full of minerals. By collecting this water, you will not only save tap water, hydrate your plants but can prevent runoffs causing clogs in the downspout and gutters.

 

6) Don’t crowd the garden-

Overcrowding plants can trap moisture and leads to the formation of mildew affecting plants. Improving airflow around your plants can reduce high humid conditions and allows foliage to dry more quickly. Overcrowded plants tend to grow poorly due to lack of soil, sunlight and airflow. Therefore, always choose seasonal plants and flowers to grow in your garden and place them keeping gaps.

 

Weekly Lawn Maintenance: Tips by a Pro

People who have gardens in their home want it to look green and healthy throughout the year. Homeowners wish to have a beautiful and well-maintained lawn that makes them feel relaxed. But because of the hectic schedule, most of the people don’t have enough time to look after their garden. But, it is highly advised to follow a weekly schedule if you want to have a lush green garden. You need to take care of your lawn like a baby if you want it to look fresh, and charming.

 

Before moving towards the tips, let us see why weekly lawn maintenance is recommended by the experts.

 

The major advantages of lawn maintenance are

• You have strong and healthy grass in the lawn.
• The grass and plants recover at a fast pace from diseases.
• Your garden will look like a professionally maintained yard.
• Plants and grass will grow evenly.
• The curb appeal of the exterior of your home will enhance.

 

To keep a check on your lawn, you can perform the following activities as per your convenience, once in a week.

 

1. Fertilizing –For the overall development of plants in your garden, fertilization is extremely important. Learn which type of fertilizer should be used depending upon the season. Make it a habit of checking your plants every weekend. See if they are getting essential nutrients or not and apply manures as and when required.

 

2. Watering – To promote the root growth, it is crucial to ensure that the garden gets required water regularly. You can even install irrigation systems to eliminate manual watering. The built-in sensors in sprinkler systems water the lawn on time and in the right amount. They are extremely advantageous as they save the water from being wasted. Therefore, if you don’t have an irrigation system, get it installed by lawn sprinkler professionals.

 

3. Mowing –It is an important lawn maintenance task to keep the grass in good condition. Mowing depends on the type of grass and season. However, mowing once in a week is enough to keep the garden healthy.

 

4. Edging – This task is done right after mowing, and it is essential to keep the lawn green and healthy. Also, you will require an edge trimmer to get a perfect finish.

 

5. Weed Control – Weed is a common problem of any lawn. Thus, weeds need to be eliminated from the garden before they consume water and all the nutrients from your plants. To avoid weeds, make sure that the lawn is fertilized and watered after regular intervals and once in a week. However, if you find weeds in your garden, get rid of them immediately.

 

6. Damage Repair – If you have kids and pets at home, then your garden must be facing heavy foot traffic. So, repairing the damaged part is crucial if you want your garden to look green. If necessary, sprinkle seeds and fill up the patches formed.

Six Smart Landscaping Tips for Beginners

When it comes to adding a landscape, many homeowners seem interested. And of course, why not; there are some amazing advantages of surrounding your property with those beautiful flowers and green plants. You get to improve the quality of air indoors, regulate the temperature and avail high reselling price for the home.

However, if you are a first-timer and haven’t dealt with landscaping components before, you might feel overwhelmed with the choice you make. You may not know what kind of layout to finalize or the kind of plantings to choose. In such a case, you may require a professional landscaping designer to guide you and some self-help in the form of these tips –

1. Determining Your Landscape Needs and Wants

To design a perfect outdoor space for you, kids, and other family members, you have to be crystal clear on your actual requirements. Whether you need a quiet place for reading, an area to grow vegetables or an entertainment space for your children to play – jot it down on a piece of paper and include it in the rough sketch of your lawn. Fit everything together and then use this blueprint as a starting point.

2. Understanding the Basic Landscape Terms

Whether it is landscaping or any other field, you ought to know the terms related to it. That will make your search and decision process easier and effective. So, spend some time on Google and familiarize yourself with words like ‘deep shade’, ‘afternoon sun’, ‘groundcover’, ‘back of the border’, ‘winter interest’, ‘ornamental tree’, and other similar terms before hitting the ground. We are sure that knowledge will come handy in understanding your kind of landscaping situation.

3. Considering the Local Weather Conditions

While devising a landscape design plan, you need to take into account the sun and wind patterns in and around your property.  Only after that, you can create sufficient sitting areas with the right amount of shrubs blocking the direct winds and have your trees planted at spots having a maximum amount of sunlight.

4. Taking it Slow

It makes no sense to compare yourself with landscaping makeover masters you see in television shows or YouTube videos. These people have a huge crew to support them, but when working alone, you don’t have that back. That is why it is recommended to most of the beginner gardeners to start with a small area first and work on it when you have time and gradually add up more flower beds as you learn.

5. Creating a Focal Point

Every good garden design has a series of focal points to draw the attention of the visitors. They can be antique sculptures, customized seating areas, or a series of colorful flowers and shrubs. You can also create distinct views by planting a few trees for that perfect shade and cooling effect in summers and vibrant feel in winter months.

6. Lighting it Up

Once you lay down your lawn, plant your flower beds, set up a sprinkler system and install a barbecue in the backyard, start highlighting your yard’s best features. Contact your local landscape lighting expert and plan the appropriate outdoor lighting for your project to make your lawn warm and beautiful and your home safe.