By David W Lambert
At Green Living Made Easy, we are always on the lookout for products that reduce maintenance, use of toxic chemicals, and provide a better quality of life for homeowners. While Zoysia Grass definitely does meet all of this criteria, there are certain drawbacks you should be produced aware of. We have put together a listing of advantages and disadvantages with the use of this turf and you should use this list to determine if it will work in your area of the country:
Advantages:
Fantastic option for areas with hot summer months as it maintains its green color.
It can be mowed very short without any consequences, ranging between 1/2" to 1-1/4".
The resulting turf is very thick and dense.
As a result of the dense turf, it crowds out weeds and crabgrass.
Very heat stress resistant.
With proper soil management, it will grown in most soil types.
Once established it will tolerate low fertility.
Here Is The List Of Disadvantages:
Upon the first cold weather, it will turn to a 'straw brown' color for the winter. This can mean it will become straw colored from about the middle of October to the Middle of May.
Propagation is usually by means of means of stolons or plugs, which is very laborious.
You can grow it from seed but the the seed is very slow to germinate and the texture of the leaves tends to be somewhat course.
Establishment of Zoysia is very slow. With ideal growing circumstances, you can acquire full coverage in one growing season with either plugs or stalons. It is more probably to take between 2 or 3 seasons.
Once established, it can become invasive, especially in planting beds.
It is very flammable during the dormant stage and you should keep it away from wood structures with a buffer.
Do not plant it in the shade.
It can sustain a considerable amount of damage due to heavy traffic during its dormant stage.
Using It in Northern Climates
While there have been same varieties that have been developed for northern climates, such as the Zoysia Japonica or the varieties of 'Meyer' and Emerald', it is generally not suggest that it be planted up north. At the beginning hint of cold weather, even the cold weather varieties will turn yellow. This is not very appealing for people who want a green lawn for most of the year.
A Guide to Establishing Zoysia Grass:
To have the most success with Zoysia Grass, about the most beneficial time of year to plant it is from the middle of May through the end of June. By planing early you have your best chance at having a full, think, filled-in turf by means of fall.
Preparation of the Planting Bed: Have the bed well prepared, leveled and free from weeds and weed seed.
Grass Plugs: Remove the dead material and begin planting. The seed can additionally be used, but the slow germination of the seed, which can be several months, deters many people. A far better option, while being much more labor intensive is through placing plugs in the soil. You could also use sod, but that is even more expensive, but you will have a nice green lawn immediately.
Plug Planting: If you divide sod into plugs, a 12" x 12" square of sod will yield 36 2" x 2" plugs. Accepted spacing is between 8" and 12" on center throughout the planting area. Match the plug size to the hole size to ensure that the plug has good contact with the surrounding soil. Plant the plugs in such a way as to have the top of the plug slightly above the surrounding soil level.
Some of the Problems:
Thatch: Although you will be dealing with less labor for mowing frequency, it has the tendency to build thatch very rapidly. You will need to stay on top of the problem, which can take some significant time. Minimize these problems by means of regular aeration of your turf.
Invasive: This is a very invasive grass. With its fantastic, nearly weed-free characteristics, and because it crowds everything else out, it can be difficult to eradicate when in planting beds or your neighbors yard.
Shade: If you have shady areas in which you plan to plant grass, don't plan on Zoysia Grass. It hates the shade and will not tolerate it.
Damaged Areas Offer Slow Recovery: Although its slow growth is enduring for maintenance reasons, this additionally means that damaged areas will take a long time to fill-in or be repaired.
Fertilizing Techniques:
One of the many benefits of Zoysia is that once it is established, it is comparatively maintenance free. This is due to the minimal mowing cycles that are required as well as the infrequent application of fertilizer. We should be clear though that nearly every grass can benefit from applications of good quality fertilizers. So to keep it looking in fantastic shape, follow these recommendations.
Upon emergence from its dormant state, in the spring, and as it reaches about 50% environmentally-friendly, position a slow release, high nitrogen fertilizer.
If it is necessary, make a secondary application of the same fertilizer in about 8 weeks.
In order to minimize stress in the over-winter dormant period employ a winter fertilizer.
Although it is possible to grow Zoysia Grass in cold climates and it will survive, it is predominantly a warm weather grass and has fewer problems when grown in a more temperate climate.
About the Author:
If you found this article useful, you can get additional information by visiting Zoysia Grass. Additionally, more information on planting Zoysia Grass can be found at: Zoysia Grass Facts
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Defending Your Trees From A Winter Storm
By Steven Jorgensenn
As January and February inch nearer, so does some of the coldest weather of the year. These months can bring cold overnight conditions and also the occasional sleet and snowfall or winter storms, potentially damaging your trees and other landscaping.
Though trees aren't as vulnerable to intense cold as shrubs or flowers, they still bear the brunt of prolonged exposure to the elements. An unhealthy tree poses a major risk during an ice storm that may well send it crashing onto your residence. By taking certain precautions and being aware of the warning signs for unsafe trees, you may keep your yard healthy and your house safe through the wintertime.
Search for breaks in the trunk of main limbs. This is a sign that your tree may perhaps already be harmful. If or when the powerful winds or heavy ice from a winter storm hits, these limbs will be the 1st to fall or break. * Other possible hazards contain hollow, aged, and corroded trees and one-sided or noticeably leaning trees. If you discover a tree with these symptoms, it should be removed as soon as achievable. * As the winter moves through, keep an eye out for dead or broken limbs, as well as trees with significant, decaying cavities or branches that are too near to your residence or power lines.
In the event you have questions about the health or upkeep of your trees, you need to consult an arborist. To the inexperienced eye, particular problems may possibly appear minor, but a certified arborist can clearly identify any damage that will poses a greater risk. In case you do encounter storm damage, a professional tree provider can safely remove any broken branches or fallen trees from your yard.
The wintertime can make the outdoors appear dull and dreary. In case you want your yard and trees to appear healthy and vibrant come spring, you'll want to take precautions from winter storms along with the damage they can inflict.
About the Author:
Tree service Atlanta are experts in tree removal, storm damage response, and tree trimming. They're specialized for your year-round tree and plant needs.Atlanta tree removal uses only the very best arboricultural procedures to keep your trees and plants looking their greatest.
As January and February inch nearer, so does some of the coldest weather of the year. These months can bring cold overnight conditions and also the occasional sleet and snowfall or winter storms, potentially damaging your trees and other landscaping.
Though trees aren't as vulnerable to intense cold as shrubs or flowers, they still bear the brunt of prolonged exposure to the elements. An unhealthy tree poses a major risk during an ice storm that may well send it crashing onto your residence. By taking certain precautions and being aware of the warning signs for unsafe trees, you may keep your yard healthy and your house safe through the wintertime.
Search for breaks in the trunk of main limbs. This is a sign that your tree may perhaps already be harmful. If or when the powerful winds or heavy ice from a winter storm hits, these limbs will be the 1st to fall or break. * Other possible hazards contain hollow, aged, and corroded trees and one-sided or noticeably leaning trees. If you discover a tree with these symptoms, it should be removed as soon as achievable. * As the winter moves through, keep an eye out for dead or broken limbs, as well as trees with significant, decaying cavities or branches that are too near to your residence or power lines.
In the event you have questions about the health or upkeep of your trees, you need to consult an arborist. To the inexperienced eye, particular problems may possibly appear minor, but a certified arborist can clearly identify any damage that will poses a greater risk. In case you do encounter storm damage, a professional tree provider can safely remove any broken branches or fallen trees from your yard.
The wintertime can make the outdoors appear dull and dreary. In case you want your yard and trees to appear healthy and vibrant come spring, you'll want to take precautions from winter storms along with the damage they can inflict.
About the Author:
Tree service Atlanta are experts in tree removal, storm damage response, and tree trimming. They're specialized for your year-round tree and plant needs.Atlanta tree removal uses only the very best arboricultural procedures to keep your trees and plants looking their greatest.
Anthurium Cultivation: The Right Way To Feed An Anthurium
By Moana Morganstern
Taking care of an anthurium is relatively uncomplicated after you have mastered basic principles of anthurium care. In prior articles, I have discussed where to keep your anthurium and the best way to water it. In this article I am going to explain ways to fertilize an anthurium.
Inappropriate fertilizing of your plant can easily kill it, so it is important to learn the way to fertilize it properly. Essentially the most essential factor to keep in mind is to never ever over feed your plant. If you are unsure concerning how much plant food you ought to offer your plant, make certain you give it less than you believe it needs. Should you over fertilize your plant you can kill it. While, if you under fertilize your plant, the worse that can occur is that it will grow just a little more slowly.
There are two sorts of plant food that can be employed to feed an anthurium: slow release or liquid. With slow release, you apply it once and you don't need to put it on again for half a year. With liquid fertilizer, you will need to put it on every single week. Generally, I recommend utilizing slow release plant food unless of course you are ready to devote plenty of attention to your plant.
The main thing to watch out for in a fertilizer is a decent ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. To locate this kind of fertilizer, just look at the figures on the package. They need to be something like 15-30-15.
When you've chosen a plant food, you will want to apply it. To utilize it simply look at guidelines on the content label and decrease the amounts you observe there by 75%. Assume the content label says that for 8 inch containers it is best to apply 1 teaspoon, for an anthurium in an 8 inch container you should instead use a quarter teaspoon. In terms of application frequency, a slow release fertilizer ought to be utilized once every 6 months.
About the Author:
If you would like to know far more about anthurium species, please stop by my anthurium care website.
Taking care of an anthurium is relatively uncomplicated after you have mastered basic principles of anthurium care. In prior articles, I have discussed where to keep your anthurium and the best way to water it. In this article I am going to explain ways to fertilize an anthurium.
Inappropriate fertilizing of your plant can easily kill it, so it is important to learn the way to fertilize it properly. Essentially the most essential factor to keep in mind is to never ever over feed your plant. If you are unsure concerning how much plant food you ought to offer your plant, make certain you give it less than you believe it needs. Should you over fertilize your plant you can kill it. While, if you under fertilize your plant, the worse that can occur is that it will grow just a little more slowly.
There are two sorts of plant food that can be employed to feed an anthurium: slow release or liquid. With slow release, you apply it once and you don't need to put it on again for half a year. With liquid fertilizer, you will need to put it on every single week. Generally, I recommend utilizing slow release plant food unless of course you are ready to devote plenty of attention to your plant.
The main thing to watch out for in a fertilizer is a decent ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. To locate this kind of fertilizer, just look at the figures on the package. They need to be something like 15-30-15.
When you've chosen a plant food, you will want to apply it. To utilize it simply look at guidelines on the content label and decrease the amounts you observe there by 75%. Assume the content label says that for 8 inch containers it is best to apply 1 teaspoon, for an anthurium in an 8 inch container you should instead use a quarter teaspoon. In terms of application frequency, a slow release fertilizer ought to be utilized once every 6 months.
About the Author:
If you would like to know far more about anthurium species, please stop by my anthurium care website.
Choosing the best Plants for your Garden
By Carol Lee
Many times we purchase plants on impulse then find there's nowhere in the garden that really suits them. Before buying plants carefully examine your garden to see how much sun and shade it gets, regardless of whether the soil is well drained or waterlogged and whether your aspect is sheltered or windswept. You'll then be equipped to go and purchase the best plants for your situation; shade-loving plants for the sheltered areas, sun-lovers for the warm spots, drought-resistant plants for the parched areas which might be either sunny or shaded, and swamp plants for the poorly-drained parts.
But wait! Test your soil first, to determine the pH level of your soil and what kind of nutrients you need to add, if any. Is the soil acid or alkaline? Most plants prefer soil that is slightly acidic, but you will find some that must have alkaline soil to grow. You can alter the soil's pH level, but it's much easier to simply plant for the soil you have.
Now you are ready to plant. Well - nearly. Will you plant in groups or singly? If you purchase 'one of everything' your garden may seem rather spotty. Group plantings are organized, harmonious and you can vary the color for interest.
Before planting out, place your chosen plants around the garden bed in their pots to see how they will look. Re-arrange them until you're satisfied. Grouping plants in sets of threes or fives usually looks better than planting in groups of even numbers. Be certain that you've an interesting combination of colors and textures of plants. Tall plants should go to the back, or the center if your garden will be viewed equally from all sides. Attempt to keep your plants away from trees. The roots of trees are fiercely competitive and will steal all the nutrients and moisture meant for your flowers.
The correct color scheme is one way to maintain the harmony in your garden. Imagine the color of the flowers when they're in bloom. Some colors might clash with other people, but can still be planted side-by-side if they've a various blooming season. Foliage color is also essential. Many flower plants have silver, gray or purplish foliage that is just as attractive as the flower. This indicates that they're still attractive well past the blooming season and so have added value.
About the Author:
E-articles.info allows articles to be submitted for free; it contains information on issues of general interest. Start submitting your articles and tutorials now and get listed in this high-quality directory for free!
Many times we purchase plants on impulse then find there's nowhere in the garden that really suits them. Before buying plants carefully examine your garden to see how much sun and shade it gets, regardless of whether the soil is well drained or waterlogged and whether your aspect is sheltered or windswept. You'll then be equipped to go and purchase the best plants for your situation; shade-loving plants for the sheltered areas, sun-lovers for the warm spots, drought-resistant plants for the parched areas which might be either sunny or shaded, and swamp plants for the poorly-drained parts.
But wait! Test your soil first, to determine the pH level of your soil and what kind of nutrients you need to add, if any. Is the soil acid or alkaline? Most plants prefer soil that is slightly acidic, but you will find some that must have alkaline soil to grow. You can alter the soil's pH level, but it's much easier to simply plant for the soil you have.
Now you are ready to plant. Well - nearly. Will you plant in groups or singly? If you purchase 'one of everything' your garden may seem rather spotty. Group plantings are organized, harmonious and you can vary the color for interest.
Before planting out, place your chosen plants around the garden bed in their pots to see how they will look. Re-arrange them until you're satisfied. Grouping plants in sets of threes or fives usually looks better than planting in groups of even numbers. Be certain that you've an interesting combination of colors and textures of plants. Tall plants should go to the back, or the center if your garden will be viewed equally from all sides. Attempt to keep your plants away from trees. The roots of trees are fiercely competitive and will steal all the nutrients and moisture meant for your flowers.
The correct color scheme is one way to maintain the harmony in your garden. Imagine the color of the flowers when they're in bloom. Some colors might clash with other people, but can still be planted side-by-side if they've a various blooming season. Foliage color is also essential. Many flower plants have silver, gray or purplish foliage that is just as attractive as the flower. This indicates that they're still attractive well past the blooming season and so have added value.
About the Author:
E-articles.info allows articles to be submitted for free; it contains information on issues of general interest. Start submitting your articles and tutorials now and get listed in this high-quality directory for free!
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