|
 |
Bark Saver
When doing tree pruning work, making an extra undercut with your pruning saw will help keep the bark below heavier branches ... |
|
|
Beware Backflow
When water flows backward through the water supply system, it is called backsiphonage or backflow. When that water is ... |
|
|
Blower Basics
If you dread the tedious task of raking leaves each fall, you'll be amazed at the ease of using a leaf blower. These gasoline ... |
|
|
Choosing a Spreader
Cyclone or rotary spreaders work best with fertilizers. Drop spreaders work best with lime. |
|
|
Clean Cut
Mowing when the grass is wet or with a dull blade can cause the tip of the grass to shred, giving the lawn a brown appearance ... |
|
|
Compost Aeration
The microorganisms in the compost pile function best when the materials are as damp as a wrung-out sponge and have many air ... |
|
|
Compost Materials
Anything that was once alive will naturally decompose. However, some organic wastes should not be composted at home.
DO ... |
|
|
Compost Surface
If the microorganisms have more surface area to feed on, the materials will break down faster. Chopping your garden debris ... |
|
|
Compost Temperature
The most efficient decomposing bacteria thrive in temperatures between 110F and 160F. Thus, the hotter the pile, the faster ... |
|
|
Compost Volume
Compost piles trap heat generated by the activity of millions of microorganisms. A 3-foot by 3-foot by 3-foot compost pile is ... |
|
|
Construction Landscaping
During construction, soil will often be without grass, trees, shrubs, and other plants. Without this protective vegetation, ... |
|
|
Construction vs. Plants
Several types of injury occur during construction. Those covered under other sections are grade changes and soil compaction. ... |
|
|
Cultivating Annuals
Cultivate by hoeing to break up soil crusts and control weeds. Shallow rooted annuals are injured by deep, vigorous ... |
|
|
Deciduous Efficiency
Trees that lose their leaves in the fall (i.e., deciduous) are the most effective at reducing heating and cooling energy ... |
|
|
Deep Root Companions
Deciduous trees with deep taproots are better companions for naturalized plantings than trees with shallow, spreading roots. |
|
|
Easement Access
If the sewer line or drain line for a home you are buying crosses another property, make sure there is a recorded easement ... |
|
|
Exterior Lighting
Exterior lighting is one of the best places to use CFLs (compact fluorescent lamps) because of their long life. If you live in ... |
|
|
Fertilize Regularly
As a rule, you should fertilize at least three times a year; spring, summer and early fall. |
|
|
Fertilizer Facts
It is best to apply fertilizer when the soil is moist and then water lightly. This will help the fertilizer move into the root ... |
|
|
Fertilizer Facts
Before you apply fertilizer and lime you should know your soil nutrient values. Soil tests can be done at most Land Grant ... |
