Mediterranean Landscaping

Many homes in warm areas of the country were built with a Spanish Mediterranean design. Many people have begun exploring the Mediterranean style of landscape design, which goes well with any type of warm weather architecture, but especially Mediterranean construction. Mediterranean landscape design is know for, first of all, its lush vegetation. While some of these plants are only found in southern Europe, they will grow in some of our warm weather climates also. A yard designed after Mediterranean style should be full of plants. Another important factor is stone. Ancient cultures of the Mediterranean used stone, like travertine, to create walkways in their gardens.

A homeowner creating this style could make a straight pathway through the yard with travertine pavers, or use the travertine pavers to create a sitting area in the middle of a garden, with plants all around. Travertine was used by ancient civilizations to build timeless structures, and travertine pavers take that same timelessness and put it into a form that is easy to work with today. Finally, statues are a big part of Mediterranean style. The size and type are up to the designer to decide, but the combination of lush vegetation, natural stone, and sculptures or statues will help give the feel of the warm Mediterranean.

Landscaping in Small Spaces

Landscaping doesn’t always have to be for large estates with beautiful yards and gardens. Even for people living in homes or apartment with very little outdoor living space, landscaping can help bring out the best in these small places. Just because there isn’t a big backyard, or a lush flower garden, doesn’t mean the view outside has to be dreary or dull. A small backyard can be brought to life with small flower beds spaced throughout the area, using cheerful glass mulch to help add a colorful flavor to the yard. An apartment in a large city might be lucky enough to come with a roof patio, in which case a small garden or greenhouse can be brought in to add life to the space. Small pebbles or glass mulch can be added around plants or to cover unattractive areas. Even if the extent of one’s outdoor living space is a small patio high above the street below, color and texture will brighten the view. Potted plants, sculptors or art, and colorful glass mulch can be incorporated into these small spaces to make them feel like home.

Fix Up the Front of the House

When people think of landscaping their yard, often times they are thinking of the back yard. This is where the patio goes, the flower gardens grow, the vegetable garden is planted. But we all know that when selling a house, curb appeal is important, and that means we need to get working on the front of our homes also. Besides, we all would like to be welcomed home to a beautifully landscaped yard at the front of our house.

The same ideas we use in the secluded back of the house can be applied to the front. Use cap rock to build a wall around a raised flower bed. Use glass mulch to create accent colors in boring areas of the front yard. Rock gardens aren’t just for the backyard, and they make a great focal point of the front also.

Cap rock could be used in the front to create a more interesting entrance, or lay cap rock steps leading up to the front door. A stone walkway leading up to the house can replace a boring concrete sidewalk. The possibilities are endless. Putting a little effort into the front of the house will make it as beautiful and welcoming as the back of the house.

Create a Backyard Paradise with Travertine Pavers

We all want our yard to be a place where we can relax and enjoy our surroundings. Because of this, people invest a lot of time and effort into flowers, plants, and a design that reflects their style. Brick patios and wood decks are commonplace, but to really make a statement, owners are turning to higher quality, more interesting looking materials and plants to create the perfect space. Things that are out of the ordinary will really make a statement about the homeowner.

Travertine pavers are very durable, and yet they look elegant and timeless. They can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer, or by a professional, and being natural stone, they will withstand the test of time. They won’t need to be replaced because they were rained on and they won’t crack because of the weather.
A patio made of travertine pavers in the middle of the yard, surrounded by beautiful plants and flowers can create a feeling of calm and relaxation. Potted plants, a fountain, and maybe a statue, will make any backyard area full and rich, and feel like a tropical paradise.

Pebbles for Landscaping

They seem like such a common, everyday material, but pebbles are gaining in popularity because of all the benefits they provide, as well as the improvement they make in a landscape’s appearance. Pebbles are used extensively for pathways, to fill areas under plants, in the building of ponds and rivers, and to improve the look of certain areas of a yard. Pebbles now come in such a wide variety of colors and polished finishes that homeowners are sure to find something they like. They are also often used in xeriscaping areas that don’t receive much rainfall, in an effort to add color and beauty to dry yards. Pebbles are also great for rock beds, and to fill in small areas that are hard to do anything with.

Many landscapers are turning to different types of stone to design landscapes, because stone is so versatile, natural, and long-lasting. Pebbles have added benefits because they can be placed easily and can be installed by do-it-yourself homeowners, if desired. A good landscape will incorporate a variety of materials, colors, and plants, and many people are now using pebbles to enhance their landscape.

Glass Mulch for Landscaping

More and more people are using glass mulch as an alternative to more traditional bark or gravel mulches. The use of glass mulch in landscaping is appealing to those who support recycling. People would rather see beer bottles and other discarded glass end up as glass mulch instead of thrown into a dump where they sit for years and years. Instead of being taken to the dump, old glass is ground into nugget-sized pieces and tumbled to remove any sharp edges. Sometimes pigment is added to produce glass mulch into a wide variety of colors.

Another environmental reason people are turning to glass mulch is that it doesn’t absorb water like wood mulch does, therefore more water gets to the plants and less water is needed when watering plants. Glass mulch also doesn’t break down like wood does and therefore you don’t need to continually replace the mulch every few years.

Finally, because glass mulch comes in a variety of colors, people are able to landscape more creatively than they could with brown or red wood mulch or gray gravel. Some people use blue glass mulch in order to form a stream or pond in the middle of their landscaping. Others have used glass mulch to make designs or logos to accent their plants. Glass mulch is a versatile, environmentally friendly alternative to bark and gravel mulch that is gaining popularity among many people.

Preserving the Last Bit of Color

It happens every year as the summer starts to wind down and the last flowers in the yard begin to bloom. It would be a shame to have these flowers bloom and die too quickly because they are the last of the color for the year. There are some things that can be done, however, to prolong the life of these flowers’ bloom. Depending on your climate, it might help to water the plants regularly. As the hot summer months linger on, lack of rain can cause some flowers to wilt and die. Mulching around the flowers will also help retain some water. Weeding flower gardens will keep undesirable plants from choking out the flowers. Using fertilizer for healthy flowers will also help keep those colors going longer.

Another way to help flowers grow well is to create some sort of structured bed around them. This could be a raised bed, using cap rock or wood planks to elevate it, or simply a bed that is separated from the rest of the landscape by cap rock or other retaining wall. By using cap rock, you not only put a physical barrier around the base of the flowers to help protect them, but the cap rock is aesthetically pleasing to most landscapes. Cap rock can be used in a number of landscaping projects and is easy to coordinate with other types of materials.

Privacy in Your Backyard

Everyone likes to have their own quiet space sometimes, and what better place to enjoy it than your own backyard?  While some people may be lucky enough to live in a secluded area far from others, most of us have neighbors somewhat nearby. If your yard is a little too open or your neighbors too close, there are ways to increase the privacy of your own yard.

First, and maybe most obviously, a fence can add privacy. With many types to choose from; wood, iron, rail, chain link, there is a fence for any landscape type. You could even build a privacy wall out of coral rocks.
Secondly, a row of hedges or trees provides much seclusion. They can be planted while seedlings and fast-growing varieties can start providing shelter in a matter of months or years.

Thirdly, landscaping helps with privacy. Flowerbeds, bordered by coral rocks or pavers can put a barrier between you and the neighbors. A coral rock fireplace or a statue can also be a great way to create a quiet space. A patio can have lattice work or trellises around it to block the view from the neighbors or the street. All it takes is a little imagination and planning, and a backyard can be a place of solitude. 

A Patio; the Symbol of an American Backyard

The patio is such a common feature to many homes that many of us take it for granted. We eat on it, we play on it, and we keep our lawn furniture on it. Those that live in warm climates may use their patio every day. Those that have to endure cold winters with snow will often spend their whole summer out on the patio, when the weather permits.

Patios can vary so much in size and design that they really speak volumes about their individual creator. A patio can be made of travertine pavers, bricks, coral rocks, or a variety of other materials. It can be full of furniture, or full of plants, or hardly filled at all.

A new trend is for patios to incorporate a fireplace. Sometimes it will be a moveable fire pit, other times people build the fireplace right into the patio out of coral rocks or cap rock. Tiki torches and lanterns are commonplace on patios, as are solar lights.  

Whatever the style, a patio can really improve a landscape. It is a common part of many yards, and the place where homeowners like to gather and relax.

Landscaping Increases the Value of a Home

These days many people are working to improve their home, especially if they are thinking of selling it in the near future. With home values plummeting and the real estate market at a standstill, most people are willing to do whatever they can to increase the value of their home.

One way to increase the value of a home and its curb appeal for potential buyers is to focus on the landscape. A good landscape includes well-maintained flower beds, lush lawn, and clean patio and walkways. But there is another feature that home buyers seem to always be looking for these days: a pool. While not everyone in America may want a pool in their backyard, it is often the selling point of a property. Pools can add so much beauty to a landscape if they are taken care of, and especially if flowers and plants are incorporated around them. By using natural materials to hardscape around the pool, such as travertine pavers, the area will be improved even more. Travertine pavers are made up of a classic stone that withstands the test of time and is perfect for pool areas. Travertine pavers are skid resistant and stay cool underfoot.

With a pool in place and a little work done around it, a landscape can improve the value of a home.

A Rich Landscape

How often don’t we wonder what it would be like to live in the shoes of the rich and famous? While we have to admit that not everything about their lives may be admirable, there are some things we might wish we could have. The fancy cars, the clothes, the houses with their beautiful landscaping - these are things we could live with.

For example, you can expect wealthy homeowners to have a crew of landscapers that take care of their lawn, design their flowerbeds, and weed their gardens. And while many of us won’t ever be living in a multi-million dollar home, we can incorporate some of the wealthy styles of the rich and famous to our homes. Travertine pavers are a very rich-looking material to build patios with, and coral rocks are just as beautiful and can easily be used to build a fireplace or border around a bed.

Many people are now incorporating things like glass mulch to create a touch of color and flair to their yard, and things like sculptures and topiaries can beautify any landscape. With a little bit of planning and the right resources, any landscape can begin to look like it belongs on the cover of a magazine!

Glass Mulch Application

Glass mulch is a great way to beautify a landscape. Many people now use it to mulch planting beds, line walkways, and create a bit of color in their landscape. For some, it is used as a touch of whimsy, for others, glass mulch becomes practical in a rock garden or pathway.

Whatever the type of application for glass mulch, one should be careful about how they place it. First of all, glass mulch should be installed deep enough that there is no weed or grass growth allowed to penetrate through. It might also be helpful to lay a weed barrier down.

Secondly, decide on the colors and designs you want - and don’t overdo it. Glass mulch is beautiful on its own, and a lot of colorful plants in and around it can make it look cluttered. Simple textures with single colors work best with glass mulch. The mulch itself comes in various colors, and you will need to decide if you want to use a single color, or mix a few of them up.

Finally, plan to spend a small amount of time on upkeep of the area. Glass mulch looks the best when it can be blown free of leaves or debris regularly, but when placed properly it will save the homeowner time on maintenance in the long run.

Coral Rock Wall

In today’s yards, it is common to see designers experimenting with many different structures and materials to add texture and interest to a landscape. They may add a colorful glass mulch walkway, or maybe a piece of art to a flowerbed. Another way to add interest to a landscape is to use hardscapes. These are structures such as patios or walls that help divide the space up and make it more pleasing to the eye.

A wall make out of coral rocks is a good example of a hardscape. This wall can be made around a patio to separate it from a flowerbed, or it can be the outer edge of a bed that meets up with a path. Coral rocks are perfect for hardscaping because they are easy to work with, and they look great. The different patterns that are found in coral rocks make them a favorite for landscapers. Coral rocks can be found in cut blocks to be used for structures like walls or fireplaces, or as flagging pieces to line pathways or patios, or they can simply be boulders to be displayed in a landscape.

Landscaping on a Budget

The economy is a big thing on people’s minds lately. Many people have begun to really watch how they spend their money and cut back on nonessential purchases. Even though the times might be tough right now, there are ways to save money and still have a great looking landscape.

First of all, it is important to have a plan. Spend a little extra time to find out what kinds of plants and materials can be used in your area and climate. For example, in a tropical climate, it would be smart to go with plants that like warm weather, and materials that complement the flora such as coral rocks. Likewise in the north, it would be more economical to buy native plants that do well in winter as well as summer, and work with materials like travertine pavers that do well in any climate. It will cost a lot less money to do things right in the first place.

Secondly, check prices throughout the year. Plants are going to be less expensive when they are purchased during the regular growing season. Other things, such as coral rocks or travertine pavers, might go on sale during the off season. Watch for the end of the landscaping season in your area and check for sales on materials.

Thirdly, do the work yourself. Sure, it would be nice to have the pebbles delivered to your yard and spread out for you, but if you are able to transport them and do it yourself, you’ll save money

Tropical Landscaping

It sure seems like folks in tropical climates like to landscape. Maybe it’s the beautiful weather of these tropical places, or maybe it’s the pride that homeowners in these areas have for their vast array of foliage, but it almost seems effortless to maintain a landscape in the tropics. It is fun to plant big, tropical plants that burst with beautiful flowers, and lawns can look so green and beautiful in this kind of climate.  

Some features that many tropical landscapes incorporate may be palm trees, lots of greenery, and big, bright flowers. But other things really help give that tropical feel, such as a big coral rocks waterfall, or a cap rock fountain. Fish can be used in ponds, as well as water plants. Hardscaping around these structures is important, and a professional look can be created by using pebbles or travertine pavers to finish off the area. Water features like these add both sound and smell to the sight of the landscape, and give a definite tropic feel.

Potted plants can also add a tropical feel to a backyard or patio. By using native plants that are lush and green, all areas of the yard can be brought to life. A bamboo fence can also add a great deal of aesthetics to the area.

With a little research and planning, it is possible to create a beautiful landscape that celebrates the tropics.
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How to Create a Backyard Pond

There are many backyard projects that homeowners can do on their own.  One of the more challenging do-it-yourself projects is creating a pond with a stream.  Some things are best left for the experts, such as designing and placing cap rock waterfalls, but an ambitious homeowner should be able to create a basic stream and pond by themselves.

The first step to this project is to dig the area for the pond, and the size will vary based on the desired size and shape of the pond.  Once this is done, the plumbing will need to be placed for the filter and pump, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

The next step is to excavate the stream and install the waterfall tank and skimmer, if they are being used.  The pond underlayment and liner can then be positioned.  In order to hide the liner and create a more natural landscape, it is necessary to fill the area around the edges with rock or pebbles.  One good way to do this is to place larger stones first around the edge of the pond and directly on the liner, and then add pebbles to the cracks and around the stones.  This will also hold the liner in place and prevent soil from falling into the pond.  Shallow water plants also work well to fill the area and create a natural look.

The last step is deciding what kinds of water plants and fish will go well in your pond, and then enjoying your finished project.

Landscaping in today’s economy

Homeowners today might be caught in a slight predicament when it comes to tackling new outdoor projects.  Some people have dreams of what they want their property to look like, and all sorts of projects they would like to undertake.  The problem is that many homeowners today are pinched for money and even things like landscape projects are often put on the back burner for a better day.  Many people are wondering what projects they should work on and what can wait until the money is there.

Most would agree that it is important for a house to look well-kept and cared for.  Certainly anything that is in disrepair and an eyesore should be fixed to at least make it look better.  For example, an old cracked or stained walkway can be taken out and replaced by an inexpensive pebble walkway, or even a glass mulch path.  Other things, such as the paint on the house, can be touched up if there isn’t enough money to redo the entire thing.  Flower beds should be kept up and weed-free, and the grass should be maintained at a healthy level.

While it might not be necessary at a time of restricted funds to put in a brand new travertine patio with a cap rock fireplace, those people that take the time to come up with a plan should be able to keep their house looking pleasant, while budgeting and planning for these larger projects in the future.

Landscape Styles

There are many different types of styles that designers can use when planning a landscape.  The type of style that is used may be chosen to match the house or the neighborhood, or just be a reflection of the homeowner’s own style.

Formal and Informal Styles
A formal landscape design may incorporate orderly flowerbeds, straight lines, and well-managed and pruned plants.  A classical garden, travertine patio, caprock fireplace, and hedge for a border may all be features of a formal style landscape.

An informal style, on the other hand, may have more curving edges and random plants.  Often, an informal style will seem cozy to some and cluttered to others, and an abundance of plants and colors may be used.

English Garden
Another style for landscaping a yard is the English garden.  This type of landscape will incorporate features like a picket fence, many perennials and shrubs, and maybe a loose rock or pebble walkway.

Oriental Style
Oriental style will use water, evergreens, and rocks in its design.  Bonsais and miniature, well-pruned plants are often part of oriental style.  Different types of plants in planters, such as bamboo, also create an oriental feel.

Woodland Style
Woodland style is a natural technique that is used in many areas.  It may feature a waterfall or stream, sometimes lined with pebbles or river rock.  Terraced hills, filled with rock beds and natural plants also would fit with a woodland theme.

There are many other styles that can be used today, and sometimes a combination of styles may create a beautiful yard.

Glass Mulch Adds Color to Landscape

Maybe you’ve heard about a great new trend hitting landscaping projects – glass mulch.  Glass mulch is actually recycled pieces of glass (great for those trying to “go green”) that have been tumbled in order to make them smooth.  The glass comes in many different colors and can be a beautiful addition to any yard.

Glass mulch can be used in many different ways, depending on the look the designer is going for.  The versatility of this type of cover material is a big selling point for it.  For example, blue glass mulch can be used to create a dry stream bed, or to place around stepping stones along a path.  Or, this type of mulch can cover the area around drought plants to give some color, or in with a potted plant.

One thing that most people would agree is that when used in the right way, glass mulch can create a bit of whimsy in the landscape of a yard.  Sometimes designers will use glass like this to create pieces of color among the flower beds.  They can be placed in containers and placed at different heights for an attractive design.

Whatever the glass mulch is used for, it has many benefits.  The mulch is environmentally friendly, it won’t decompose and need to be replaced every year, and it doesn’t attract bugs.  With a little bit of enthusiasm and imagination, colored glass mulch can brighten up a yard.

Installing Pebble Tile

Pebbles can give a landscape a finished look.  The laying of loose pebbles around plantings can help keep moisture in the soil underneath, and adding pebbles around pavers for walkways can make the area look clean and finished.  Pebbles are also used in xeriscaping, to nicely fill an area in order to cut down on maintenance and water use.  Another great place in landscaping for pebbles is along waterfalls or running streams. 

Pebbles also come in tile form which allows the pebbles to be installed quickly and easily by almost anyone.  These tiles are great for covering walls, floors, tub surrounds, backsplashes, countertops, fireplace hearths, and even in creating fountains.  The list goes on and on and is as limitless as one’s imagination.  

The pebbles are attached to a mesh backing, so that many pebbles can be laid all at once.  The tiles are easy to place because the pebbles interlock to form a seamless pattern.  Pebble tiles are installed just like other tiles, in that they are placed on thinset mortar and then grouted.  It is recommended that a sealer be used before the grout, in order to prevent discoloration of the pebbles from the grout. 

There are many different types and color of pebbles, each adding character and texture to the project they are used in.  Few substances are used as often and by as many people as pebbles, and there are some really nice homes and landscapes out there that use pebbles and pebble tiles in beautiful ways.