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  • DIY Yard Mosquito Control

    DIY Yard Mosquito Control

    Now the weather has heated-up here in beautiful Sarasota, it not only means more days to spend on the white sand beaches and barbecuing on the grill, it means it’s time for an effective yard mosquito control system.

    Why Mosquito Control is Necessary

    There are several common problem pests for infestations around the house, but, one that’s most troublesome, and sometimes dangerous, is the mosquito. These annoying insects prey on people and pets alike, leaving itchy bite marks on the skin. The good news is, you don’t have to suffer again through the summer because there are effective DIY yard mosquito control options at your disposal.

    Summertime means time for those pesky, disease-bearing mosquitoes and a fresh approach to getting a handle on natural mosquito control systems. Yes, systems, because it takes more than one earth-friendly method to manage mosquitoes and keep them from consuming people and pets. Some people prefer hiring an exterminator, but they can be expensive and they use toxic chemicals on lawns and flowers which may harm pets and people alike. Do-it-yourself mosquito exterminating with natural products will rid the garden of these pests and provide healthful mosquito control throughout the summer. —Natural News.com

    While some will criticize DIY mosquito yard treatment alternatives, there’s really no way of completely eliminating these pests. This is because these small, midge-like flies are big in reproducing, with females laying between 100 and 300 eggs at a time, laying as many as 1,000 to 3,000 over the course of a lifetime. And, although the average lifespan is just 2 to 3 weeks long, when there are scores or hundreds of mosquitoes reproducing,  that’s certainly enough to cause a big problem.

    DIY Yard Mosquito Control

    Another challenge with common yard mosquito control products is these do not often treat the conditions necessary for breeding. Like keeping pond predators away, it’s more about controlling the outdoor environment than combatting swarms head-on. In other words, it’s not enough to spray repellent onto the skin and/or into the air, because it will eventually evaporate. You need to take proactive steps for truly effective DIY yard mosquito control:

    • Purchase a bat house. So, you’re probably thinking you’d rather not trade mosquitoes for bats, but, you’ll discover it’s a great swap to make. Mosquitoes come out to feed during dawn and dusk. Bats are nocturnal and also fly out to feed at the same time, particularly in the evening. Bats also feed on moths and other insects and help facilitate pollination, making them quite useful around you yard.
    • Remove standing water. One of the biggest contributors to mosquito breeding is our own bad habits. We typically ignore standing water and it’s in this natural element mosquitoes breed and thrive. If there is standing water anywhere in your yard, you can bet mosquitoes are present and multiplying. Stagnant water is the largest culprit, but, practically any water, even very shallow, will attract mosquitoes.
    • Keep yard grass cut short. Keeping the grass short in your yard is another way to fight mosquitoes. They can take refuge in tall grass and the taller grass, the more moisture is trapped, perfect conditions for those small, midge-like flies. A word of caution, don’t cut your yard too short or the grass will wither and die. Keep in mind, this is just one proactive steps you can take of several more for mosquito control.
    • Remove any unnecessary items. There is probably one or more unnecessary items in your yard. It could be just about anything, including an old tire acting as a plant bed, a tarp, or another object. Anything that can retain water will attract mosquitoes. Also, be sure to keep gutters clean so mosquitoes don’t have another place to breed and hide.
    • Tie tarps down as tight as possible. If you cover your grill, boat, or even firewood (though not so common in Florida), with a tarp, know this can be a prime breeding spot. This is because rainwater can pool on a tarp; so, ensure it’s tightened down to ward off mosquitoes.
    • Treat your yard with insect repellent. Even if you use all the suggestions above, mosquitoes can still be somewhat problematic. Another step to take is to treat your yard with insect repellent yourself on a regular basis, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

    In addition to these steps, you can also light citronella torches for added protection. Another trick you might try if you’re a person who “attracts” mosquitoes, is to place a clothes dryer sheet in your waistband. These contain benzyl acetate, benzyl alcohol, ethanol, limonene, and/or other chemicals. Dryer sheets have been proven effective in keeping gnats away, but, there’s plenty of anecdotal accounts these work with mosquitoes, too.

  • Killing Off Tough Lawn Weeds DIY Style

    Killing Off Tough Lawn Weeds DIY Style

    Killing off tough lawn weeds is, well, tough. Weeds are a bane many homeowners suffer from in their landscapes. These problematic plants pop-up from the ground time and again. You pull them out, spray them, and do whatever you can to rid your lawn, garden, and landscape at-large from them, yet, they continue to creep up from the soil, ruining all your hard work. What’s even more frustrating is that it’s an ongoing battle that drains your energy but you still persist because you are committed to having a great outdoor space.

    The truth is, there are many effective ways to control weeds–notice the phrasing doesn’t include a “forever” verb or adjective–but some work better than others. That’s because killing off tough lawn weeds is an ongoing fight. You can only control weeds in so many ways, and, if you do it right, you won’t inflict harm on the rest of your lawn. Remember, there’s no perfect solution and some of the remedies you’ve found will not only kill weeds, but the plants you want to protect.

    Weeds are not only unsightly, they are a drain on your landscape’s resources. Just like the plants you want to grow and enjoy, weeds fight for land, soil, water, and other nutrients, which means less is available for your lawn. This is why you fight weeds and continue to do battle, to protect your lawn, but it comes with a lot of commitment. It’s not necessarily cheap, though it isn’t expensive in most instances, but, killing weeds is time consuming. The good news is, there are ways to effectively kill off weeds to cleanup your landscape.

    Not All Organic Solutions Work

    As mentioned above, not all weed control solutions work. Some are downright harmful, even though they may render results, they also do damage to your lawn and/or garden. Sure, you can boil water and pour it over weeds, but, even if you don’t scald your skin, you won’t be able to pour with precision, and, those nearby plants can also be harmed. You can also pour vinegar on weeds, but, here again, it’s not a great solution. The reason for this is that store-bought vinegar contains only 5 percent of acetic acid. However, to be effective, you need about 20 percent.

    Nothing ruins your garden or yard like weeds, those uninvited guests that rob your plants of space and nutrients. So murder those weeds most foul, but without harmful chemicals that can do you in, too. —House Logic

    There are more organic ways to control weeds, but these too can often be harmful to plants and grass. What’s more, you won’t find a household product that’s nearly as effective as a chemical herbicide. Those products are specifically designed to do the job without causing harm to your grass and plants. When you use household products, you’re taking an ineffective short cut that’s generally a waste of time.

    Killing Off Tough Lawn Weeds: Dandelions and Japanese Knotweed

    Weeds come in a variety of types, which means that there’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all solution. You’ll have to identify the weeds in your lawn and garden one by one in order to know what controls will work best. So, let’s look at four of the most common types of weeds and ways to kill them off:

    • Dandelions. These weeds are very common, and, quite difficult to control. Dandelions are a perennial, not an annual, so, you can’t get rid of these in the same way. Unlike crabgrass, which is an annual, dandelions won’t be effectively controlled with a pre-emergent herbicide. This is because dandelions have a long tap root, which means you can’t simply pull them out of the ground and expect results. If you pull dandelions out, you’ll leave that long tap root behind, which means it will just grow back. Grab a bottle of Weed-B-Gon and pull up those dandelions, then, spray it into the hole to kill the root.
    • Japanese knotweed. This is so ubiquitous that it can be found all over the country, and, so difficult to control, it actually decreases property values. Like dandelions, Japanese knotweed has a serious root, making it difficult to control. The method for killing this weed is to pull it out and treat the hole with chemicals. If you’re dealing with a large patch, smother it with layers of old carpet.

    Killing Off Tough Lawn Weeds: and Bittersweet and Crabgrass

    • Bittersweet. Like dandelion and Japanese knotweed, bittersweet is problematic because of its roots. You can cut it down, but not with a chainsaw, because it will cause the weed to be broadcast. One way of controlling bittersweet is to cut it down, then pull it out by digging up as much of the root as you can. It might still grow back, so, you’ll have to revisit it and pull up any re-emerging roots.
    • Crabgrass. Post-emergent herbicides work well on crabgrass, but, be careful not to spray any other plants or grass. Like some other weeds, crabgrass can grow in large patches, so, you’ll have to keep on it to keep control.
  • Lawn Equipment Summer Preparation Tips

    Lawn Equipment Summer Preparation Tips

    Now that summer is definitely here, the heat and humidity will be radiating throughout the next several months. With it come those afternoon storms that water our lawns and make the grass grow. That means having to mow about every week, along with edging, trimming, and blowing away clippings. It also means that your lawn equipment will get a big work out and it ought to be in the best condition to handle all that use.

    If you’ve looked at the prices of new equipment, you probably know these items are not cheap. The good news is, with just a bit of preventative maintenance and care, you can get your lawn equipment in good condition and extend its life. It doesn’t take a mechanic or a lawn machine expert to do these things. What’s more, this preventative maintenance comes at a very low cost, because you’re only going to need a few inexpensive items.

    How to Get Your Lawn Equipment Ready for Summer

    When you take your mower, line trimmer, edger, and leaf blower out, even if you regularly change the oil, the engines will still develop a build-up of gunk and that not only wears down their longevity, but also, decreases power while consuming more fuel.

    Even if you changed the oil in your mower frequently last year, starting off a new season with a fresh oil change is a great place to start your tune up. Consult your mower’s manual to determine how to drain the old oil, and replace it with oil of a similar viscosity. —NAPA Online

    Over time, this will cost you money because you’ll have to buy more fuel and mix. To get the most out of your lawn equipment, do the following and it will work well for many years to come. After all, lawn maintenance is a never-ending, albeit seasonal, task.

    Lawn Mower

    Most of us just pull the mower out, pour in a bit of gas, pull the cord, walk behind it, and then shut it off a put it back. Doing so over the course of many months, even years, allows engine build-up and part failure. So, wheel your lawn mower out and do the following:

    • Change the air filter. The air filter provides much needed flow to the engine to keep it running. Check the air filter on your lawn mower and replace it if necessary.
    • Change the fuel filter. Over time, the fuel filter can become clogged, so, check it before you start the engine, and replace if needed.
    • Change the spark plug. Spark plugs generally last a long time. If it’s been awhile since you’ve checked it, then it’s probably time to replace it with a new one.
    • Clean off the undercarriage. The undercarriage collects a whole lot of debris and it builds-up over time. That affects its performance, so it’s wise to clean the undercarriage.
    • Sharpen the blade. Blades dull as they are used and should be sharpened periodically. Doing so will make mowing easier and a bit quicker.

    Line Trimmer

    Gas line trimmers are powerful and allow you to move freely about without being tethered to an electrical cord. Just like a lawn mower, these rely on much of the same parts so, to service your line trimmer, do the following:

    • Replace the air filter. Just like the mower, your gas powered line trimmer is equipped with an air filter. Check it and replace it if necessary.
    • Replace the fuel filter. Fuel filters also become clogged after much use and can cause the engine to sputter and shut off. Check and replace the fuel filter when needed.
    • Replace the spark plug. Remove the spark plug and if it has corrosion on it, then go ahead and replace it.
    • Adjust the idle speed. This is a good time to check and tweak the idle speed.
    • Replace the line. Even if there’s a lot of line left on your machine, it’s a good idea to replace it with fresh, new line.

    Edger

    Edgers allow you to make aesthetic cuts, to square and line along walkways, driveways, street curbs, and more. You can do the following preventative maintenance to keep it running at its best:

    • Check the belts. Your gas powered edger has several belts on it. Check each one for signs of wear. Should any of them be loose or cracked, replace them.
    • Check the spark plug. Unfasten the spark plug and check it out. Replace it if it is corroded or faltering.
    • Check the air filter. Pull out the air filter and rinse it off it if possible. Should it be blocked, then replace it.
    • Check the oil. You should always check the oil, not only for the amount but for its state. If it’s been awhile since you’ve changed it, do so now.
    • Sharpen the blade. Remove the blade a sharpen it if it is dull.

    Leaf Blower

    The leaf blower is a workhorse, and, it needs regular attention to keep it running healthy. Before you begin to use it, do the following things:

    • Check the air intake. If it is blocked, clean it to allow air to pass through.
    • Replace the spark plug. Take the spark plug out and inspect it.–replace it if needed.
    • Clean the muffler spark arrestor screen. You can hose the spark arrestor screen off if it’s caked with gunk.
    • Clean the carburetor and surrounding space. To keep the engine running efficiently, clean the carburetor and the space surrounding it.
    • Check the fuel filter and line. Just like your other gas powered equipment, you should check the fuel filter and line and replace if needed.
  • Lawn Mower Safety Tips For Kids

    Lawn Mower Safety Tips For Kids

    There are several common landscaping mistakes homeowners should avoid but kids’ lawn mower safety isn’t one of them. It’s something we don’t really think about because it’s just another household chore. Here in sunny Sarasota, the lawn mowing season is very long and active because when the grass isn’t dormant, it grows rapidly. During the spring, a lawn mow is only necessary about every two to three weeks. But during the summer, it’s a weekly task. That’s why it’s important for families to know some kids’ lawn mower safety tips.

    Basic Lawn Mower Maintenance

    While keeping children safe is a top priority, you’ve got to maintain your lawn equipment for it to deliver its best performance. So, try to keep its workload down to a minimum. You can partially accomplish this by avoiding the five most messy trees. Raking up organic debris, such as branches and leaves will help to lighten the load and these make for part of a wonderful composting recipe. Use those leaves, branches, twigs, and more to combine with some household throwaways, like coffee grounds and food scraps.

    Sure, you may know how to mow your yard so it looks like a professional baseball outfield, but do you know how to mow it safely? Even if you’ve been mowing injury-free for decades, we have some safety tips that you may have never thought of, tips to help you continue mowing injury-free for decades to come. —Family Handyman

    Also, you need to maintain your lawn mower with just a bit of basic maintenance. So, be sure to replace the air filter, spark plug, and gas filter, especially if it’s been stored away for the past several months. It’s a good idea to totally drain the gas at least once per year. Check the oil, clean out the undercarriage thoroughly, and sharpen the blades. All of these easy to do basic lawn mower maintenance will help keep that machine humming along and extend its usable lifespan. If you aren’t proficient with this type of work, you can always go to a local small lawn machine service shop and have it tuned up for you. While this might cost $50 to $75, it’s worthwhile if it prevents you from having to buy a new machine.

    Kids’ Lawn Mower Safety Tips

    Every spring, we drag our lawn mowers out, fire them up, and cut the grass. It’s something routine and we don’t stop to think about how truly dangerous these machines are to us, other adults, pets, and children. You might have experienced a rock hitting your leg, inflicting immediate, stinging pain, after it was thrown by the mower blades. Or, have faced the disappointment of finding a ding in your car door from pebble fired from the blades.

    Those are small instances but it can be much worse. About 17,000 children are injured in lawn mower incidents every year, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Injuries include cuts, lacerations, burns, broken bones, amputations, and most unfortunately, death. This is why it is so important to know the following kids’ lawn mower safety tips:

    • Keep young children inside. One of the simplest and most convenient ways to keep children safe from lawn mowers is to keep them inside your home. There’s just no good reason to allow children younger than 7 to 8 years of age outside while you’re mowing. This will help avoid injuries from flying debris or accidentally run over.
    • Pick up all the lawn debris. Speaking of flying debris, it’s not fun and makes the lawn care all the more tedious and arduous, but picking up all lawn debris is necessary. The less loose debris, the less chance of an accident. The average lawn mower can catapult a small rock or piece of mulch at speeds of up to or over 200 miles per hour.
    • Always safely store the mower. When the machine is running, it’s at its most dangerous, right? Well, that’s not entirely true. After you mow the lawn, the engine and exhaust remain painfully hot. In fact, most will be about 240 degrees for 1o to 15 minutes after use. That’s hot enough to inflict 2nd and 3rd degree burns.
    • Don’t allow kids to lap ride. There’s a reason riding mowers only have one seat and not two seats — they are made to be operated and rode by just one person — not two people. Never allow lap riding because it’s too big a risk for serious injury to occur.
    • Avoid delegating chores too soon. Some children, especially boys, will be eager to take on the chore of mowing the lawn. While this initiative is laudable, it’s a recipe for disaster, particularly for children age 12 years or younger.

    If it’s time to update your landscaping, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are a full-service, professional landscape design company and serve all of Sarasota, including near Bayfront Drive, around Rolling Green Golf Club, along Longboat Club Road, and elsewhere.

  • Pool Screen Enclosure Birdcage Pros and Cons

    Pool Screen Enclosure Birdcage Pros and Cons

    A swimming pool screen enclosure, sometimes referred to as a “birdcage,” is quite popular here in Sarasota and throughout the state of Florida. Unlike our neighbors to the north, the Sunshine State enjoys many days of warmth and pools can be used for most of the year. Even during the ultra mild winter months, pools equipped with heating systems are used regularly. If you are considering having your swimming pool resurfaced or want to install a pool, you probably wonder about the screen enclosure birdcage pros and cons.

    Cost to Build a Swimming Pool Enclosure

    So, you’ve thought about installing a pool screen enclosure but are unsure whether it’s the right choice. While outside troubleshooting your pool pump, it struck you the pool just might need an enclosure. However, you need to know the cost and what’s more, the pros and cons of such a feature. Well, the cost ranges greatly, from just a couple of thousands of dollars up to approximately $14,000. But, keep in mind it depends on the size, type, and other factors.

    There are many reasons to build a swimming pool enclosure. You may need added safety or security to keep your young children or pets away from the pool. You may want the protection from bugs and insects, or you might prefer a pool enclosure over a pool cover for keeping the pool clean while still being able to swim in it. There is a broad range of prices for a pool enclosure depending on what style and features you choose. —Home Advisor

    The truth of the matter is, you can have your pool enclosed for an affordable cost. If you decide to go with something simple, it won’t be as expensive but will provide all the same benefits. Basically, the more elaborate it is, the more you’ll pay. It comes down to materials, labor, and design. There are several options from which to choose, which provide different aesthetics and function to the enclosure.

    Pool Screen Enclosure Birdcage Pros and Cons

    If you’re on the fence about installing a pool screen enclosure, you are definitely not the only one. Homeowners often wonder why they should and why the should not have their swimming pool enclosed. They wonder what it will be like to actually live with a screen pool enclosure. That’s perfectly understandable because it is something that will change the way you interact with your pool (and in a good way). Here are the top pool screen enclosure birdcage pros and cons:

    • Better security. Because the pool is enclosed, it makes your outdoor living area more secure, along with your home. It’s easy to lock to help dissuade intruders and provides you with a little more peace of mind knowing it’s there.
    • More swim time. The majority of homeowners who install a pool screen enclosure also opt for a pool heating system. It makes the perfect combination, giving your family and guests significantly more swim time, particularly when the weather turns chilly.
    • Less maintenance. Those pesky leaves that blow from your neighbor’s trees day in and day out won’t make it into your pool anymore. You’ll spend much less time skimming the surface, having to scoop out all leaves every couple of days.
    • Sunlight protection. A pool screen enclosure will provide you with more UV sunlight protection. While many people love being able to soak up the sun and lay out sunbathing, it’s just not healthy for your skin. It will help mitigate those harsh UV rays.
    • Insect and pest repellent. When you have a pool screen enclosure, you have a ready-made, always available, insect and pest repellent. The birdcage will keep mosquitoes, bees, wasps, and other pests away from your pool and your home.
    • Withstands strong winds. Pool screen enclosures are built strong, strong enough to withstand heavy winds. So, if a big storm does roll through the area, the birdcage will survive the inclement weather system.

    Those are the benefits of installing a pool screen enclosure but it does have some drawbacks. It will slightly limit your landscaping options because of its size. Also, because it provides sunlight protection, that means cooler water temperatures. That’s welcome news in the middle of the summer but it will be a factor when the weather begins to cool. Installing a pool heater will certainly solve this dilemma.

    If it’s time to update your landscape or install a new swimming pool, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are a full-service, professional landscape design company and serve all of Sarasota, including near Bayfront Drive, around Rolling Green Golf Club, along Longboat Club Road, and elsewhere.

  • New Deck Cost Estimates and Considerations

    New Deck Cost Estimates and Considerations

    New deck cost estimates will vary greatly depending on your preferred materials, size, and features. When you build a deck, there’s more to it than simply selecting the wood or composite. You’ve got to think about use, size, layout, and much more. Then, there are several deck customizations available and these will factor into cost, as well as time to completion. So, let’s take a look at some basic new deck cost estimates and considerations.

    New Deck Installation Considerations

    When most homeowners first think about adding a deck, they typically imagine the finished product’s look. That depiction often includes what type of deck surface material they want most. For instance, it could be redwood, cedar, polyethylene, polypropylene, tigerwood, teak, bamboo, or PVC. Some homeowners like the look and feel of pinewood lumber decks and opt for this as the surface material. But the surface material is only one component of many.

    The end result: your own private oasis, mere feet from the fridge. The process? Nearly as easy, provided you envision your plans for using this newfound entertaining/relaxing/al-fresco-everything living space. You’ll want to be able to tell your top rails from your balusters for sure, but it’s also time to consider some bigger questions, like how much space do you need to pull out the dining chairs? Does your town require architectural plans before permits? And what about a hot tub? —Trex.com

    The first consideration should be the understructure materials. That is, the foundation of a deck and some of the most used understructure materials are pressure treated lumber, steel, and concrete and/or block. Pressure treated wood and steel both share the benefit of being resistant to rot and to insects, as does concrete. Of course, costs will differ for these understructure materials, so it’s very important to choose one that best fits your budget.

    New Deck Cost Estimates

    Speaking of budget, it’s also important to think about future costs. Remember, the materials and installation costs aren’t the only expenses you’ll incur. There will be maintenance costs involved to keep your deck in good condition for the duration of its life. Here are some new deck cost estimates to factor into your calculations when budgeting to build a new outdoor living amenity for your home:

    • Permits. Depending on the build and your type of residence, you might or might not need a building permit to install a new deck. Sarasota County generally does not require a building permit for “decks and patios directly on grade and without footings. (Any material, 1 and 2 family residences only).”
    • Property taxes. Although you might not need to get a building permit, a deck will add to the value of your home, which will be reflected in your increased property taxes. You can contact the local tax assessor to learn what to expect in regards to adding a deck to your house and its potential impact on your property taxes.
    • Materials. Now, one of the largest expenses will be the materials you choose for the understructure, the surface, and any additions, such as railing. On average the cost per square foot for the most popular materials are as follows: polyethylene $7.82, polypropylene $8.86, PVC, $7.50, redwood $7.75, tigerwood $20, cedar $3.75, and bamboo $3 to $4.
    • Additional costs. It’s likely you’ll also incur additional costs. For instance, deck lights range in price from $8 to $30 each. Post lighting is considerably more expensive, ranging in price from $30 to in excess of $100 apiece. Then, there are other things, such as an umbrella, railings, fire pit, grill, and more.
    • Maintenance costs. If you do chose a wood surface over composite, the wood will need to be restained occasionally, as well as resealed and waterproofed. Stain averages $30 per gallon and seal and waterproof combination mixtures range in price from $10 to $25 per gallon.

    The average deck build installation cost is $6,916 for an area of under 200 square feet, about $35 per square foot. Cost factors include size, geographic location, materials, and whether it is done do-it-yourself or professionally installed.

    But upfront and small ongoing maintenance costs are all worthwhile. A new deck will add value to your property and will be a great enjoyment for outdoor living and entertaining. Plus, when it comes time for resale, you’ll recoup some of your costs. Combine this with the enjoyment and use and it’s no wonder why so many homeowners add this great outdoor living amenity feature to their properties.

    If it’s time to update your landscape or add more features, like a new deck, just go ahead and contact us. We are a full-service, professional landscape design company and serve all of Sarasota, including near Bayfront Drive, around Rolling Green Golf Club, along Longboat Club Road, and elsewhere.

  • DIY Landscape Lighting: Illuminating Your Outdoor Space

    DIY Landscape Lighting: Illuminating Your Outdoor Space

    DIY landscape lighting not only provides function, but can make your outdoor space substantially more beautiful. If you’ve already pulled-out all the stops to make your yard look top-rate with spectacular hardscaping and softscaping, it’s time to put the last piece of the puzzle into place–landscape lights.

    Outdoor light transforms a yard, patio, deck or garden from ordinary to extraordinary. Not only does landscape light make your exterior accessible during the evening, it sets-off key features that dazzle the eye.

    And the good news is, the majority of exterior lighting is energy efficient. There is a wide variety of low voltage outdoor lighting fixtures on the market. Not only does that lower the long term cost, it also provides a great deal of fixtures from which to choose.

    Smart Outdoor Landscape Lighting

    When you are ready to install outdoor lighting, keep in mind not only where but how the fixtures will work. That means choosing hardware that will not only get the job done, but hardware that will help to create a sense of artistry. Whether it’s an ethereal moonlight beam created by garden lighting, or an illuminated walkway set-off with path lights, a combination of function and style give a home more curb appeal and help to up its resale value.

    Make outdoor gathering spaces usable after dark by installing lighting around your deck, patio, or porch. Smart outdoor lighting will also boost the curb appeal of your home. —Better Homes and Gardens

    And this is accomplished by careful planning–taking an extensive view of the long-term goal. For instance, using a classic insider’s trick of continuing indoor flooring to the outside facade. This can be done in-part through well-positioned landscape lighting. Another great design idea is to use light to create a sense of warmth with patio furniture for outdoor dining and just relaxing with family and friends.

    Landscape lighting doesn’t have to be expensive, but it’s very easy to overspend. Most homeowners who opt to take on this type of project often don’t know how to budget for their project. What’s more, it can be difficult to stick to a design concept, particularly when professional skills are needed to install specialized hardware.

    DIY Landscape Lighting Tips

    Because there are many landscape lighting design concepts, like installing a water feature or illuminating a pathway, it’s best to consult a professional to keep costs from spiraling out of control and preventing injuries. Here are some tips the American Lighting Association recommends following when installing landscape lighting:

    • Opt for professional help. Electrical wiring is no less dangerous outside than inside a home. Outdoor lighting can be very difficult to adjust and/or move if necessary. PLus, you need to match all the elements together to not only make it safe, but functional. After all, poorly placed and poorly illuminated lights simply will not provide the effect you’re looking for around the exterior of your home.
    • Determine what features you’d most like to highlight and what hardware works best. It’s not only choosing what features you’d like to set-off with landscape lighting, but what hardware will work best. (Here again, it’s best to work with a professional to achieve the results you most desire.)
    • Purchase an appropriate-sized transformer. Even when using low voltage landscape lighting, power needs can be substantial in large outdoor spaces. If you’re not familiar with this technology or believe you don’t possess the necessary skills, simply hire an experienced landscape designer.
    • Plan ahead if installing your lighting in stages. If you are going to do your project in stages, set the infrastructure during the initial phase. This will allow you to continue without having to uninstall and reinstall hardware.

    Lastly, try to blend your landscaping lighting fixtures in with the outside decor. While this will require a bit of expert ingenuity, it will make your outdoor space look all-the-more spectacular.

  • Use these Yard Cat Repellents to Protect Your Landscaping

    Use these Yard Cat Repellents to Protect Your Landscaping

    Yard cat repellents — what does and doesn’t work? The fact of the matter is, cats are unpredictable. The all-too-familiar felis catus or domestic cat, shares many behaviors with its wild cousins. Cats are a product of domesticated wildcats (and their big cousins). The largest being panthera tigris or tiger, panthera leo or lion, the second, panthera onca or jaguar, the third and panthera pardus or leopard, being the smallest of the big four. All share many of the same traits, which makes keeping cats out of your garden or landscape a challenge. But, this doesn’t mean you can’t keep felines from wreaking havoc. You can use certain methods to create cat repellents for your property.

    Why Cats are Attracted to Yards

    Cats are known as curious creatures. And, these four-legged furry felines certainly live up to their reputation. By their very nature, cats love to explore. Although cats are said to have nine lives, your landscaping might not enjoy the same durability. Cats are attracted to gardens and landscape features for a variety of reasons. One such attraction is the presence of prey items, such as rodents. Squirrels, mice and more prove too tempting to ignore. Another attraction are trees. Even the most messy trees in a yard are great for climbing.

    Cats can benefit homes by keeping away rodents and insects, but many people do not like cats in their yard. If you want to keep cats out of your yard, there are many humane ways that do not harm them or involve removing them from the neighborhood. Keep in mind that what might work for one cat, might not work for another, so be willing to try more than one solution. And, if you know the cat’s owner or caretaker, ask them for advice and assistance in keeping their cats close to home. —SPCA

    Flowering plants are likewise a big attraction. Some cats like to nibble on certain plants. And, if this isn’t enough, koi fish in a pond are a prime motivator. Then, there’s the presence of other cats. Unlike lions, which live in prides, most large cats (jaguars, leopards, cougars and more) live solitary lives. So, when a cat picks up a scent of another feline, it can lead directly to your yard. To keep neighborhood and even feral cats at bay, you’ll have to use different techniques.

    Effective Yard Cat Repellents for Your Landscape

    While it’s difficult enough to make your dog and yard coexist, it’s not much easier to cat-proof your garden, landscaping or outdoor space. To be the most effective, you’ll have to employ a variety of methods. After all, cats are well-known to be independent and individual personalities. That means what works to keep one cat away might not work with another. Here are a few yard cat repellents you can try out:

    • Chicken wire galore. Before you start conjuring ugly images in your mind, we’re not talking about installing chicken wire as a barrier fence (though that is a good cat repellent option). Place chicken wire right on top of the soil before planting. Cats do not relish walking on this tactile surface, making it an effective, preventative measure. Best of all, you can cut small holes using wire cutters to plant flowers, vegetables and more.
    • Motion-detecting sprinklers. Aside from jaguars, most cats do not like water. This is probably due to the fact their fur isn’t water-resistant. So, cats avoid getting wet because they’ll feel waterlogged. Use this to your advantage by installing motion-detecting sprinklers. The trick here is to find the sweet spots where the devices are the most effective. When honed, trespassing felines will receive a short burst of water.
    • Ultrasonic devices. Sticking with technology, you can also use ultrasonic devices. If you’ve ever had a kitten or cat in your household, you know startling noises make felines jump and scatter quickly away. Best of all, you won’t hear any noise because the range isn’t audible to humans.
    • Non-toxic scents. Speaking of the difference between animals and humans, scent is another weapon in your arsenal against cat intruders. Humans have approximately 5 million scent receptors, while dogs have between 100 and 300 million. Cats have about 80 million scent receptors. So, non-toxic scents, such as cayenne pepper, black pepper, coffee grounds, and orange peels, all work well.
    • Catnip plants. Another alternative is to create an attractive, dedicated space. By growing catnip and catmint (nepeta cataria, which is a hardy mint family perennial herb), you’ll create a temptation diversion. Simply grow this in one area of your yard and garden in another space. Catnip and catmint serve as a good deterrent.

    If it’s time to update your landscaping, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are a full-service, professional landscape design company and serve all of Sarasota, including near Bayfront Drive, around Rolling Green Golf Club, along Longboat Club Road, and elsewhere.

  • Pool Remodeling Basics: What You Should Know

    Pool Remodeling Basics: What You Should Know

    Pool remodeling is a major construction project and can be a very costly one. So, it’s important to know some key facts about pool remodeling before jumping in with both feet. Before you can cool off during those hot summer days or laze about along the glimmering water, pool remodeling takes a good deal of commitment. It certainly won’t be done overnight.

    The good news is, after a pool remodeling job has been completed, it will make your inground amenity look entirely new again. And the majority of pools have a limited plaster coating shelf life.

    But the plaster coating isn’t the only material that can wear to lead to a pool remodeling. There are other elements which can warrant pool remodeling. Pools are endure a lot of stress, which comes in many forms. The weather elements are one thing that can affect a pool, particularly the water quality, as rainwater is harmful to a pool.

    Pool Remodeling Basics

    The basics of pool remodeling are preparation, materials and approach. It’s a good idea to avoid the area during pool remodeling as well as keep pets out of the yard. Children, of course, shouldn’t be allowed anywhere near a pool remodel as dangers abound. It’s a good idea to clear the area of outdoor furniture, pull up and/or cover plants and protect windows with drop cloths or plastic. Sooner or later, no matter how well you maintain your pool, you’ll have to resurface it. While this isn’t a welcome proposition, it certainly is necessary. If you don’t resurface your pool, the damage will certainly worsen and cost much more to repair.

    Finding Pool Remodeling Contractors

    Start with the Better Business Bureau when looking for a pool contractor to do your amenity remodel. Check out potential pool remodeling contractors’ licenses with the state. Additionally, references from family, friends, neighbors and co-workers are a good source. Check out past customers to find out their experience.

    Resurfacing a pool is something that no one likes to do, but it is a necessity to maintaining your pool. There are several reasons to resurface your pool. The main reason that you need to have your pool resurfaced is so that it does not leak. The pool finish gets pitted and scarred over time, due to the chemical wear and tear, as well as the elements. You may notice that your pool is chalking, and this is a good indicator that the pool finish needs to be resurfaced. —Charlotte County Florida Weekly

    Being licensed, insured and bonded are absolute must-haves for any pool remodeling firm. Narrow down a list of three possibilities, then interview each one. Ask them if they actually do the work or sub it out. Trust your gut and be sure to read and understand the contract before you sign on the dotted line.

    Pool Remodeling Options

    There are six types of pool remodeling options. Each has its pros and cons. It depends on the area in which you live and the look you are going for. Of course, prices will vary among these pool remodeling options.

    • Pebble Tec. Coming in a wide variety of colors, Pebble Tec is very durable and stain resistant, which means less cost to maintain. It consists of pebbles bonded together with an adhesive.
    • Pebble Sheen. Similar to Pebble Tec, Pebble Sheen is more aesthetic. It has all the qualities of Pebble Tec but also includes a mosaic. The mosaic is a great “centerpiece” in the middle of the pool on its floor.
    • Ultra Poz. An alternative to plaster which is more durable, Ultra Poz is chemical resistant and looks great without going overboard.
    • Tile. Purists who can’t do without tile are among many pool owners. Tile is a great pool remodeling option because there’s no limit to what can be done.
    • Plaster. The most commonly used material in older pools is plaster. And it gets the job done nicely in pool remodeling. Of all the pool remodeling options, this material is the least durable.
      Water features or decking. The last consideration is taking a pool remodeling job outside the physical structure. Adding a deck and/or water features is one way to put a fresh, functional look on a pool.

    As with any other home improvement project, pool remodeling can be as extravagant as a homeowner wants it to be. Another good bit of advice is to maintain an open line of communication with your pool remodeling contractor before and during the project.

  • Using and Choosing a Leaf Blower

    Using and Choosing a Leaf Blower

    It’s the time of year when every week or two, you have to put on an old tee shirt, step into a pair of comfortable worn out pants, and make your way to retrieve lawn mower, line trimmer, lawn bags, and a leaf blower.

    What many people make the mistake of believing is if they buy a blower or blower-vacuum combination, they’ll never have to do anything else again. What’s more, the amount of time needed to cleanup lawn trimmings and leaves will be dramatically reduced. While it’s true that leaf blowers/vacs are great tools to making cleanup more efficient, they do not have a miracle button to press that magically does the job.

    It’s also true that these landscaping tools will help to put the finishing touch on your lawn work, be that cleaning up fallen leaves, to blowing away grass clippings after mowing your lawn. The bigger the machine is, the more power and features it will have, generally speaking, which means that it will be a more versatile tool which will lend a helping hand in more ways than one. The key is to use your leaf blower in the way it was intended to get the most out of it.

    Using a Leaf Blower the Right Way

    Okay, so you’re probably thinking that using a leaf blower is no more difficult than just picking it up, starting it up or turning it on, and then point and shoot. However, anyone that’s used a leaf blower at least one time knows that it’s quite possible, probable, or even nearly inescapable, that painting one’s self in a corner is a reality. In other words, people pick up their blower and/or vacuum, start it and then blow leaves in one direction only to have to try and keep from blowing the ever growing pile away from itself. Wind is another factor that can cause leaves to be carried from one end of the yard to another.

    Leaf blowers are versatile machines. They can take the raking out of autumn cleanup, and also double as driveway sweepers or snow clearers. Some models vacuum; others bag mulch, clean gutters, or spray trees…their power serves a purpose: Blowers are the easiest way to quickly gather big messes of leaves into manageable piles. —This Old House

    To make yourself more productive and get those leaves up in a faster manner, start by placing a tarp in the center of your lawn, pinned down at all four corners with a stake or held down with rocks or bricks. Then, start at the left corner nearest your home and move to the center, blowing the leaves onto the tarp. Do yourself a big, huge, monumental favor and do not fuss over every single leaf because that’s extremely counterproductive and it will cost you a lot of frustration and time. Once you’ve gotten the first corner space cleaned up, cinch-up the tarp and empty it into a composting pile or into a trash bin.

    Then, go to the other corner nearest your home and repeat the process. Do the same for the corners nearest the street, toward the center. While this will leave some leaves sprinkled across the lawn, those will be very easy to rake into a small pile and dispose of in the same manner as the other four piles.

    Choosing a Leaf Blower

    Having the right machine on-hand means choosing a leaf blower that truly fits your needs. Size and scale are quite important, meaning that if you have an average sized yard, you don’t need an industrial sized model. Most all blower-vacs will require some form of hearing protection, even the electric can be loud enough to cause your ears to hurt. There are a number of models and their versatility, as well, as power source, will be the deciding factors:

    • Electric blowers. These come in corded models and cordless models. If you choose a corded model, ensure that you have an extension cord that’s long enough to reach beyond the borders of your yard. Cordless models will be more convenient because of their mobility, but will have less power and battery drain will be in-play.
    • Gas blowers. These are among the most powerful, also the most noisiest, and will emit fumes. These models typically take a mix of gas and two-stroke oil, which means you’ll need a gas can and bottles of the right oil. Because these have an engine, you’ll have to keep the air filter clean and occasionally replace the oil filter and spark plug.
    • Combination blowers, vacuums, mulchers. These models are quite versatile but not necessarily as powerful as their gas cousins. In addition, you’ll find that these can easily clog when vacuuming and the mulching might be slow and tedious.