From tiny apartment balconies, rooftop decks, compact courtyards or narrow paved walkways, there are many creative ways to create a lush, serene and functional garden regardless of the size of your outdoor area.
Well planned small gardens can be just as beautiful and functional as sprawling manicured ones. Best of all, they don’t take much financial cost and time to set up and maintain.
If your tiny outdoor area is in need of some TLC, here are our eight top tips to make the most of the space you do have and bring your small garden to life.
Space-saving furnishings
When setting up your small garden for practical use like alfresco dining and drying laundry, opt for space-saving options. Invest in a sturdy foldaway table and set of chairs, a collapsible umbrella and a retractable clothesline, so you can minimise clutter and tuck all these items away when not in use.
Multi-purpose bench seating
If you have the space, consider adding in timber bench seating with hinged lids. This provides the perfect spot to store all those little items, like watering cans, cushions, gardening and BBQ equipment, collapsible chairs, firewood, the esky and alike that can take up precious space in your little garden. You could even incorporate planter boxes into the bench seat design giving you a comfy spot to sit as well as grow your fave lush plants.
Define different areas of your small garden using pavers, steps, hedges, garden beds, gates, water features, decking, screens or fences. Believe it or not, this will help to make the area feel larger and allows you to create multiple outdoor zones with different purposes. Consider adding in a chill-out zone level with benches, a fire pit and/or water feature and then a dining and cooking level with a table setting and a BBQ.
Look around
When planning your mini garden look to use every possible inch of space to grow plants. Look for opportunities to hang plants off an awning, fencing, walls, verandas or the garden trellis. Make the most of blank wall space on your patio, courtyard wall or balcony by adding greenery in the form of wall mounted planters, climbing plants or by hanging a vertical garden. Woolly Pockets are a great green wall modular planter option that is easy to install and maintain, with self-watering versions available.
Go potty
Planter boxes and pots are the perfect solution for small paved courtyards with no garden beds and cramped concrete balconies. Line larger pots and shrubs along your balcony railing for extra privacy. Container gardens are especially good for renters who can easily uproot all their hard work and take their pot plants with them when they move on to a new home.
Create your own little green fragrant oasis in your planters, pots or a raised garden bed by planting easy to grow edibles and herb variety es. Edible plants that thrive in containers and small spaces include lettuce, strawberries, citrus trees, olive trees, bush beans, spinach, mint, chives, rosemary, basil and thyme, just to name a few!
Up the Zen factor
For those without a green thumb or a serious interest in gardening, a minimalist Japanese-style Zen pebble garden could be a good low maintenance way to go. Enhance the tranquil Japanese theming with the addition of a beautiful potted Japanese maple, bamboo screen to provide a wall of green, a Buddha statue, a koi fish pond or a Bonsai tree or two. The great thing about Bonsai trees is they grow very slowly, don’t take up much space and look amazing.
Contact local gardeners
Screen queen
Typically, compact living means close proximity to neighbours and a lack of outdoor privacy. If your courtyard or balcony space has neighbours overlooking or visible foot traffic close by, a natural screen can be the perfect way to go to add greenery and privacy. Plant a line of bamboo, magnolia trees or mother in-law’s tongue along the area you wish to block out prying eyes from. Alternatively put up a garden trellis and plant creeper plants below to make a lush green screen that maximises privacy.
Spring is the perfect time to seed and grow a bountiful garden and as we know, plants need plenty of sunlight to to thrive. There are however, certain flowers and fruit trees that particularly benefit from being planted in the warmer seasons and if you’d like to see your garden in bloom, here are eight of the best flowers, trees, herbs and vegetables to grow this spring:
Lemon & citrus trees
Lemon trees are as versatile in planting methods as they are in culinary aspects. Start a lemon tree off in a small pot that can act to brighten up any sunny living area, or line them along the edges of your garden to create a bright atmosphere on grey days. The trees are relatively low maintenance, requiring moderate sun and warm soil, making them perfect for spring planting.
Eggplants
Begin the planting process when eggplant seedlings are 3 to 4 inches tall, and place them 25 – 30 inches apart in well-prepared beds. Known for their deep purple colour and rounded shape, eggplants thrive in warm climates, with well-drained soil and regular access to water. The longer the summer, the larger the eggplants, and by planting them away from nightshade plants (tomatoes, potatoes), you’ll be giving your eggplant the best chance to grow.
Tropical plants love warmer climates / Source: Village Studio
Oregano
Oregano is a versatile herb, which is likely to come in handy in any type of cuisine. Save yourself a trip to the shops and grow your own! Oregano can be grown in small pots on your windowsills, protecting them from the wind and giving your indoor space a touch of nature. They thrive in warm climates and only need watering when soil is very dry to the touch.
Tomatoes
A staple of any diet, tomatoes are as tasty as they are vibrant. Requiring slightly more attention than other vegetable varieties, tomatoes need to be grown in areas with full-sun, well-drained soil, and access to lots of water. Additionally, use stakes or cages at the time of planting, to allow the plant to grow up from the ground, protecting the fruit and creating a feature point for your garden.
Contact local gardeners
Pig-face (Carpobrotus glaucescens)
The only native Australian flower on this list, pig-face is a creeping succulent often used to cover large patches of soil very quickly. With deep green stalks and bright purple/pink flowers (in summer) it’s hard to find a better alternative to quickly brighten up stretches of flat soil in your garden. They are extremely low-maintenance and can withstand salty air (Oceanside) and strong weather conditions.
Magnolia tree
There’s few things more beautiful than a large flowering magnolia tree on a summer’s day. These trees take commitment and often grow extremely slowly, but if you have the time, they are worth the effort. Their large white flowers are timeless, and add a touch of class and serenity to any indoor space when trimmed. Planted in areas exposed to lots of sun, these trees are likely to bring happiness and beauty for decades.
If you’re looking for classic flowers with a burst of colour, Hydrangeas are for you. When planted in shady areas, with protection from strong wind and hot afternoon sun, they can blossom from late spring and continue into summer. Make sure to keep the soil well drained and you’ll be seeing robust flowers, which bring beauty to any garden, established or non-existent, in no time!
Sunflowers
Probably the most iconic and recognizable flower of all time, sunny sunflowers are bound to draw a crowd. The smiling flowers grow on tall stalks, which can reach 4 meters in height, and are best planted in well-drained, sunny areas of the garden. Growing well into summer, sunflowers are a great way to brighten up any garden, while also doubling as beautiful additions to living spaces. when trimmed and put in vases.
These are just a few of the plants and vegetables that you can plant in springtime. With the weather warming up, what better way to get you outdoors and enjoying nature. Even if you don’t have a green thumb but would still like to enjoy a flourishing garden, let Oneflare help connect you with a skilled and experienced gardener.
Adding kerb appeal to your home need not require a large budget or any major modifications to your house’s façade. There are a lot of quick and easy ways to add to the kerb appeal of your home without breaking the bank! Keep in mind that you are not attempting to create a public display of your artistic sensibilities and creativity but trying to make your home good-looking and welcoming from the street. When adding said kerb appeal, keep it simple and your home will stay looking like a home. If you would like professional help you will find information on the various types of professionals landscapers in your area online and perhaps by word of mouth. However, many of these solutions can be done yourself.
1. Change your front door
The front door is a major focal point of the exterior of your home. A door that catches the eye can make for a house that stays in the mind. A new coat of paint or replacing worn and rusty hardware can provide your door with a new lease of life. Try a bright colour that contrasts from the rest of the exterior of the house. This will liven up the houses façade. If your budget is mighty enough, a new door with a design that is different from the old one will give the exterior of your home a substantial makeover. Veranda furniture that compliments your door will add to the overall appeal of the exterior. If you do not want to buy new chairs and tables, how about repainting what you have to match the door. If you have decided on a bright door colour, be careful not to overdo the contrast to the rest of the façade with the newly painted furniture.
Window boxes can add life and vitality to the walls of a home. However, overdoing the plants is a common mistake. Keep in mind that you are not creating another garden but attempting to add a touch of life to the walls of your house. Try using flowers and colours that compliment what you already have in your front garden.
3. Grow flowering vines
If your home is a traditional one, a climbing vine or two out the front can add a touch of romance. It is recommended to keep the vines light and delicate with plants such as a climbing rose, so that they do not become the homes of nesting rodents or provide the means for someone to climb up the walls of your home. Remember that vines need to be trimmed regularly otherwise they will look unplanned.
4. Build a bench around a tree
Do you have a big tree in your yard? Does the size of it draw the eye upward and distract people from appreciating the rest of the area? If so, why not consider creating a bench around it. This will not only give you convenient sitting space, it will focus attention on the lower part of the tree and to the garden that exists at that level. The bench does not have to be round. Octagonal and pentagonal benches look striking and impressive. Remember to leave enough space between the bench and the tree to accommodate any growth in the girth of the tree.
Contact local landscapers
5. Add outdoor lighting
Adding exterior lighting to the your home can go long way in adding kerb appeal. You can buy outdoor lighting kits from most big hardware stores and if you have basic electric skills you can do the installation yourself. Locate the dark areas of your yard and choose the features of your home that you want to highlight and try to concentrate the lighting on those locations. A well-lit walkway can also be attractive. Be careful not to overdo the light effects as outdoor lighting is meant to add a glow to your home after dark and not to give the appearance of it being daytime.
6. Install a picket fence
Ready to install fencing can be bought at hardware and garden supply stores in various colours and styles. A picket fence could be a great option being traditional fence that never goes out of style. White is the traditional colour of picket fences and works with whatever the colour your house may be. Be aware of the size of the gap between the pickets. If the gaps are too large it can give the appearance of being a broken and old fence. Conversely, if the pickets are too close together, passer-bys may not be able to see your garden, defeating the purpose of adding kerb appeal to your house. For an even better effect, install the fence a few metres back from your property boundary and fill the open space with flower beds.
If you live in an older house window shutters can provide extra character. Stick to traditional designs that match the age of the house. Antique stores are an ideal place to find old shutters in designs that are no longer available. Refurbishing and restoring the antique shutters can also be a rewarding DIY project.
8. Create a welcoming pathway
A brick or stone path leading up to your front door adds depth to your front yard. If you have a pathway that is looking old and worn out, consider resurfacing it with coloured concrete in order to rejuvenate it. Edging your new path with stone or brick pavers offers extra emphasis to the path. This will make the path stand out more from the surrounding grass. Using lamps that are low to the ground will provide soft lighting that will make the path more apparent at night.
9. Makeover the letterbox
How about installing a brand new letterbox? An attractive letterbox can become a secondary focal point of the front yard and can highlight the boundary of your property. Try choosing a design that matches the look of your house.
10. Accessorise
Lanterns, brass knockers, flower pots, and garden ornaments are a quick and cost effective way to add kerb appeal to your home. Be careful not to go overboard with the accessories. Consider the type of neighbourhood you live in; will a big brass knocker fitted on a door with a big brass handle look overdone? Also remember that these outdoor accessories are going to be exposed to the weather. Purchase those that are rust resistant.
Adding kerb appeal to your home can be easy with these few simple solutions. Using only small budget and a minimal amount of time and effort your home can look attractive and sharp from the kerb!
Knowing how to level a lawn yourself can come in handy if you notice that your lawn is not level and it takes away from your enjoyment of your home, detracts from its beauty and can cause water to pool in places or flow towards your home’s foundation. Levelling a lawn that is already laid is not too difficult for the average homeowner to do if you do a little research. Plus, levelling a lawn can make it much easier to do regular lawn maintenance. Levelling your lawn can help it grow better, look more attractive, and enhance your home’s aesthetics and curb appeal and your property’s overall value.
What causes an uneven lawn?
There are several reasons why your lawn could become uneven, such as: Uneven thawing in spring
Drainage issues
Depressions in the soil
The gradual settling of a new lawn
Children and pets playing on the lawn
The thatch in your lawn
Repeatedly mowing the lawn using the same pattern
Not collecting lawn clippings after mowing
Chinch bugs
Moles and other pests
A sprinkler system
How to prepare to level a lawn
The first step to take before beginning to level your lawn is to assess just how bumpy it is. This will determine if you can just step on the bumps to flatten when the ground is damp and soft in spring, use topdressing or a more aggressive method. If the bumps are severe and widespread, you will need to gather some tools. The last step for preparing a lawn to be levelled is to mow it as low as possible.
There are a number of tools and material you will need when you are levelling a lawn. A comprehensive list of them includes:
Hand rake
Landscape rake
Leaf rake
Levelling rake: Used to break up small clumps of dirt, remove stones and create a smooth, level surface.
Push broom
Shovel
Topsoil
Wheelbarrow
Lawnmower
Topdressing
Grass seed
Levelling mix (composed of soil, compost and sand). Levelling mix is a good solution when a lawn has a lot of shallow, widespread, uneven areas.
Water
Sand
How to level a lawn
The best way to level a lawn when fixing widespread shallow indentations is to use a thin layer of topdressing with a levelling mix made of sand, soil and compost and spread it all over the lawn. For small indentations covered with healthy grass, use a shovel to cut and lift the turf patches. Put some soil mix to level the indentation, step on it, water it lightly, compress it and put the grass patch back down. For deeper indentations, use a garden rake to de-thatch the lawn, put some sand, soil and compost in a wheelbarrow and blend them to make a levelling mix. Use the shovel to put scoops of the levelling mix in the low areas. Spread it evenly using a rake to ensure it is a few centimetres thick.
Using a push-broom or a levelling rake, work the levelling mix into the grass thoroughly. If it is done properly, the levelling mix should almost be invisible. Water the grass to help the levelling mix go under the grass and become stable. Monitor the lawn and repeat the process of sprinkling top dressing in the remaining low spots and depressions once the grass has recovered and begun to grow. If your lawn has extremely deep depressions, you can fill them with soil to make the area level, resell the filled areas, and wet them to promote healthy, new grass.
The best way to level a lawn is to do the process in spring while weather conditions are mild. This gives the lawn ample time to recuperate before the summer heat begins to beat down on it. Using fine mason sand or play sand mixed with some topsoil and a bit of compost makes sure the grass is not smothered and killed but drains adequately and gets the nutrients it needs for thick, healthy growth. Avoid over-watering. It can wash the levelling mix away and undo all of the work you have done to make your lawn level. The key is to take your time and do the levelling gradually. This will get rid of the large and small indentations while allowing the grass to grow lush, green and healthy.
Contact local lawn experts
Can sand be used to level a lawn?
Sand can be used to level a lawn, but it must be used carefully and judiciously. It can be used to level low areas or fix areas with thatch build up quickly and easily. The sand can help provide proper drainage, but too much sand can leave the grass dry as the water will flow right through it, and sand does not retain the nutrients grass needs to grow. Some experts recommend using a loamy sand-soil mix made with 70% sand. This mixture is nutrient-rich and creates a good lawn levelling top dressing. Masonry sand is fine enough to easily go through the grass and blend with the topsoil, level the lawn and allow for healthy grass growth.
In most instances, the average homeowner can take the steps necessary to level their lawns themselves. However, in some cases, if you want to make sure your lawn will be levelled and the cause of the unevenness problem properly addressed, you may need to call in a professional. One such instance is when the area of your lawn that is uneven is near where there are water pipes. This could mean that the unevenness is the result of a leaking water pipe, or you may have drainage issues.
Landscaping and lawn care experts have the tools, training, expertise and experience to let you know if the problem with unevenness in your lawn is caused by damaged water or drainage pipes. However, if this is the case, you will have to call a plumber to fix the damaged pipe first. In that case, levelling a lawn requires more than just lawn maintenance. When levelling a lawn that is already laid and there may be plumbing problems, hire a professional.
How to hire a landscaper
Licencing and qualifications
Three of the most important things to look for when hiring a landscaper is to make sure they have the proper licencing, qualifications and experience. In Australia, landscape contractors may need up to 6 years of training and take university taught landscaping related courses like horticulture and landscape construction to become certified in the field. Plus, they must gain experience by working with a licenced landscape contractor performing basic landscaping tasks. Landscapers master must lawn care and know-how to safely handle pesticides, fertilizers, planting, landscaping, garden design, and build fences and other non-habitable structures.
Frangipani trees are not only beautiful, but they also smell absolutely delicious as they start to flower into spectacular shades of red, maroon, pink, orange, yellow and white. Best of all, they’re perfect for a wide variety of hot, dry climates because they’re not vulnerable to fire or drought. They can also grow in difficult soils, such as those with high salt content. If you’d like to grow your own frangipani trees, here are the basics you’ll need to know.
How to get cuttings
Frangipani trees are typically grown from cuttings that can be culled from woody or herbaceous stems, as well as from softwood, hardwood and semi-hardwood sections of the tree. In order to take a cutting, you’ll need to use a tree that is in very good health. Frangipani sap can irritate and burn skin, so use gloves while cutting.
Cuttings taken in winter or the plant’s dormant period will do much better than clippings taken at other times of the year. It should be a healthy adult tree that has plenty of trimmings to spare. Cut a branch that is about 20cm long. Once you have it, leave the cutting in a cool, dry place for at least a week to make sure the end is completely dry. The cutting can’t be in contact with soil, water or anything else or it won’t dry properly.
How to plant the cutting
Once the frangipani cutting is completely dry, it’s time to plant in into a pot. Make sure the pot is filled with free-draining potting mix, or even sand because this type of tree does not like to have its roots in standing water. The pot should be elevated from the ground a little bit so that the airflow extends all the way around the plant. You can plant right into the soil if you like but if you do so make sure the plant gets full sun throughout the day as it will require a minimum of six hours of direct sun daily. Keep the soil warm by using mulch but don’t allow the mulch to cover the cutting itself.
Frangipani trees thrive in well-drained soil with a slight acid content, so try to maintain a pH measuring 6.1 to 6.5. While they grow well in most soils and climates, frangipani trees greatly prefer hot temperatures and don’t thrive in areas where there’s severe frost. If you live in a cold climate, plant your tree in a pot and keep it indoors during the winter.
Source: Shutterstock
Use water sparingly
Frangipanis can’t take much water. While you might want to give the cutting more and more water to make sure it will take root, this will actually hurt the cutting. Water the cutting only once every few weeks — it shouldn’t need more than this. Over the next few weeks, you should begin to see roots developing, and the tree will begin to grow.
Moving the frangipani
Once your frangipani tree has grown roots into the potting mix, it’s a good idea to transplant it into a bigger pot of into a garden if you did not initially plant into a garden. Be careful while transplanting the cuttings, however, as the fragile roots can be easily snapped.
Contact local experts
Maintenance
During cooler months, frangipani trees need to stay dry, but they can be watered regularly during warmer seasons. While your frangipani is growing, enrich the soil with organic fertilisers that have high levels of potassium, phosphorus and nitrogen, and add compost, fire ash and animal manure for maximum benefit. If your frangipani is potted, enrich the soil with a potting mix containing one-third sand, as well as a slow-releasing fertiliser.
Frangipani leaves are susceptible to moulds, rust and fungi. If these occur, apply fungicide sprays containing a solution of white oil and copper. Detergent or white oil mixed with milk powder also helps prevent powder-like mildew and rust. By nourishing the tree, you’ll help prevent disease and infection.
Frangipani trees thrive when they’re pruned, so prune and shape them regularly. If the branches are dense and crowded, prune them to a half or a third of their length. These branches will then sprout extra shoots from the pruned ends. To avoid these extra shoots, prune all the way back to the main trunk. This way, the tree won’t develop any more branches in that area.
If you aren’t an experienced gardener or you need a bit of advice concerning your frangipani trees, call a local nursery or landscape gardener for assistance. By giving your frangipani trees the care and maintenance they need, you and your family will be able to enjoy them for generations.
Placing plants or foliage is a great way to enhance the look of our pools. The presence of plants and flowers has a soothing effect and significantly impacts our positive mindset. We usually use our swimming pool to relax—what better way to relax than swimming in a pool surrounded by flowers and plants.
Studies published in many articles have said that plants reduce stress, improve concentration, increase productivity, and boost your mood. Imagine yourself poolside and looking at your pool and lovely foliage in the background. It will genuinely take your breath away.
Your pool area will become a refuge from all the stress and grind of the outside world. It creates a living space in your pool area that is soothing; many studies also mention how plants can help reduce loneliness and depression.
A large backyard pool surrounded by plants and trees / Source: Cabarita Pools
We are also most likely to use our pools because of the lovely plants and foliage and maximise its usage. Imagine the health benefits of swimming and enjoying the landscape, it will energise you and your family. Remember, increasing exercise, like swimming, lessens the risk of illness and promotes health and well-being.
Autumn is a great time to add those plants and foliage because of the ideal weather condition. So for green thumbs out there, plan ahead and research on plants that are the best fit in your pool area. Try to think of plants that you can use as shade, especially when swimming on a hot day. Look for flowers and their colours to match the look of your pool.
Keep your poolside garden simple
Creating a garden or setting plants in your pool is a great way to enhance its look. It’s important to consider simplicity so that your plants do not overpower your pool. When we have visitors in our house, the focal point should still be our pool, and it should be the first thing they see.
Placing too many plants might shift their attention, and your poolside will just become a regular garden and not a pool area. Look for areas to plant them but retain some open space to have a good view of your pool. A natural look will be the best option, place the plants as if it’s really part of the landscape. Choose plants that are naturally available in your area, for it to have a natural look.
Keep a proper distance between your pool and plants
Placing plants is an excellent idea and will bring a lot of benefits. But it should be done correctly since plants can also cause some problems. It’s essential to place the plants a considerable distance from the pool so that it’s leaves will not go to the pool. These leaves are organic and can quickly decompose and affect the quality of the pool water. They can also clog the filters making it harder for the water pumps. Leaves, if left unchecked, will damage the filtration system of your pool.
Plants should be placed a distance so that it does not cover the entire pool; you still need to see the pool and make sure everyone is safe, especially children. The path going to your pool should also be clear of plants. So you have to make sure no plants are blocking the access to your pool.
A well maintained backyard with a large pool / Source: Cabarita Pools
Make sure your plants are taken care of and well maintained
Plants also need your time and attention, so aside from your regular pool cleaning service, you also have to take care of your plants. Make sure you water your plants regularly so that they don’t witter. You have to make sure that the lawn is well manicured and the bushes trimmed up. Remember that their leaves will fly and land in your pool if you do not trim them, causing water quality problems and the pool’s filtration system.
Contact local pool cleaning experts
You should also check your trees for overgrown branches and trim them, and remove excess leaves. Check your yards for fallen leaves and use a leaf blower and rake to move it away from your pool. Make sure you collect the leaves and dispose of them properly so that they will not go to your pool.
A well managed and maintained garden area is an excellent addition to your pool. It has to be maintained well to maximise its benefits. If you don’t have time for a DIY, you can call professional pool experts to do it. They will be willing to help you with all your pool-related needs.
Are you having trouble keeping the flowers and veggies in your backyard alive during the change of seasons? Building a DIY greenhouse in your backyard is an excellent idea. A DIY greenhouse owner can provide many important benefits, such as light, water and temperature control. You can make your own small greenhouse in your yard and allow your plants to thrive all year round. Keep reading for some easy homemade greenhouse ideas.
What is a greenhouse?
Greenhouses are enclosed structures with a roof and walls of plastic, polyethylene, polycarbonate, or glass panels. They keep plants warm enough to grow all year round despite the temperature outside. You can learn how to build a greenhouse cheaply and keep it at the optimal temperature specific types of plants need to grow. Greenhouses can vary in size from small sheds to large industrial-sized buildings. If you want to learn how to build your own greenhouse, keep reading!.
What to grow in a greenhouse
In greenhouses, you can grow a variety of vegetables, fruits and flowers. You can sow seeds in trays and pots and transplant them outdoors later on. Some of the things people grow in greenhouses in Australia include:
Vegetables: Eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, lettuces, radishes and many other vegetables grow well in greenhouses.
Fruit: Greenhouses are also great for growing strawberries, cherries, grapes, pears, apples, melons and countless other fruits.
Flowers: Roses, lilies, violets, petunias orchids and hibiscus are some quality flowers that do well in greenhouses with proper soil, watering and sunlight.
Greenhouses are great for keeping plants alive during winter / Source: Shutterstock
Preparation for building a DIY greenhouse
There are several important steps you should take in preparation for learning how to build a greenhouse in your backyard. Here are a few key steps for building a small greenhouse either using greenhouse kits or making a homemade greenhouse.
Take note of sun exposure and direction
The orientation and sitting of a greenhouse are significant. Typically greenhouses are oriented north-south to maximize light interception. Be aware of how shadows cast by equipment, gutters and trusses can lead to the crops getting uneven light exposure as that can impact their growth.
Pick a spot with good drainage
Ensure the spot you choose for your greenhouse is level, moist and well-drained. This allows for the cultivation of a wide array of plants and will prevent root rot.
Option to purchase a kit
If you want a high-quality greenhouse, but don’t have the skills or expertise to build one from scratch, you have the option to purchase affordable greenhouse kits. You can use kits to build strong and durable greenhouses quickly.
What tools and materials you will need
The process for how to build a greenhouse out of wood or metal framing in your backyard requires several types of tools and materials.
Contact local builders
Tools
Spirit level: To ensure all flooring, shelves, work areas and roofing is level.
Tape measure: To accurately measure the greenhouse area, framing, flooring, shelving, roofing and wall materials.
Large carpenter’s square: For ensuring right-angle legs are perpendicular to the base, angles from labelled pivot point are accurate. Additionally, this determines roof pitch, plot angles for roofs, and ensures walls are joined together at right angles.
Electric drill-driver: To insert screws in flooring, walls and roof.
Phillips head screwdriver: To insert or remove Phillips head screws.
Shovel or spade: To dig, holes and shallow trenches to make positioning bearers easier.
Framing gun: Used to attach the parts of the frame to each other.
Staple gun: Used to connect plastic sheeting to the frame.
Foil fixers: Place between the staples and the plastic sheeting to prevent tearing.
Materials
Lightweight aluminium, steel, plastic tubing or treated pine: Used to build the framing
Clear polyethylene film, glass, acrylic, polycarbonate, fibreglass or plastic sheeting: Used for the walls and roof
Screws
Treated pine planks, gravel or cement: Used for flooring and shelving
Framing studs
Lengths of wood or metal: Cut to the height of the greenhouse walls.
Sleepers or bearers
Gate/door hinges: To attach the door to the greenhouse structure
Lengths of timber or metal: Laid directly on the ground and used to support the flooring structure
Ensure you choose a location that gives the greenhouse optimal sunlight / Source: Shutterstock
How to build a greenhouse
Cut timber: Cut the timber to be used for the frame and flooring or get precut metal for the frame.
Build and secure the floor frame: Make a rectangle the size of the floor you want using sleepers or bearers on the level area. Fix them together using screws. Attach timber planks to the bearers using bugle screws to complete the floor frame.
Build the front frame: Join the measured and precut lengths of wood or metal together in a rectangular using screws to connect them and hold them in place to make the front frame. Lay out the door frame and fix it to the front frame using the framing gun.
Secure the studs: Put studs 45 centimetres apart and attach them securely to the outside of the frame.
Build back and side frames: Using precut lengths of wood or metal, build the frames for the greenhouse’s back and sidewalls.
Secure plastic sheets to the frames: Wrap plastic sheeting over the frames. Pull it tight to each frame. Use staple gun and foil fixers to attach the plastic sheets to the frames.
Attach the door: Attach the door hinges to the side studs on the front frame using screws. Put a bolt on the door and a bolt pad on the adjacent front frame stud.
Secure frames in place: Attach the front, sides and back to the base frame using screws or framing gun.
Build and attach the roof: Build a roof frame using precut wood or metal. Attach the roof to the frame with screws or framing gun. Connect plastic sheeting or polycarbonate roofing to the roof frame with roofing screws. Make sure it’s smooth and firmly in place and your homemade greenhouse is complete!
If you find that making your own DIY greenhouse is more of a challenge than you though, you can always hire a builder to help get the job done. When finding the right professional for your job, always do prior research on the following before making any decisions:
Indoor plants have become a calling card of the millennial decor, and with good reason. Once extremely popular (the 1970s saw a boom in indoor plant life), this style is suddenly back in vogue. Try it out – you might be pleasantly surprised at the difference in the house after you bring some flora inside.
If you’re looking to hop onto the trend and unsure where to start, here’s some helpful tips on which plantlife might be the best addition to your home.
Benefits of indoor plants
Indoor plant life can add a real boost to your home. A few of the right kinds of plants can add a touch of beauty to any room in the house, especially for extremely urban environments where nature is limited to what springs up between the cracks in the cement. In those cases, you should definitely try to add just the slightest touch of green to your life. Having plants around is also very relaxing. Coming home to see your plants grow is automatically revitalising and helping to take care of them can serve as a calm, soothing release after a long day.
Another bonus? Plants will help clean and purify the air around you – removing pollution. So not only will your house look better, you’ll breathe better in it. You don’t even need a whole garden’s worth of plant life; just one or two will work wonders!
Types of indoor plants
There are a myriad of options when it comes to selecting a type of indoor plant. While considering your options, it’s important you consider how much maintenance and light they require – and if that fits your home and lifestyle.
If you decide to bring a few plants inside your house, there are a few specific species you should try.
Weeping Fig plants are extremely durable. If you’re the forgetful type who might go a few days without watering or caring for your plants, this kind of plant should still be just fine. Weeping Figs also last for quite a long time.
Peace Lily plants are quite beautiful and grow fine in darkened parts of the house; just be sure not to overwater them.
Philodendron, or”Xanadu” plants are compact plants that also do very well in darker areas.
Lady Palm trees grow very slowly but look very beautiful – just ensure that they are placed in rooms without air conditioning.
Dracaena trees are also very elegant, but need to be watered constantly.
Poinsettias aren’t just for Christmas anymore. They do very well as indoor plants and add a nice touch of colour to any apartment.
Orchids add an exotic, gorgeous touch to any home, and they also come in plenty of beautiful varieties.
Caring for your indoor plants
Select plants which go with the overall room decor. Indoor plants are the perfect way to decorate an empty corner, or as a room divider, or as a connecting link between your indoor and outdoor areas.
Tending to your indoor plants
Plants need to adjust to a new environment before they can be permanently left indoors. They can be taken indoors anytime, if you have a year around regulated heating system at home. If not, try to get the plant acclimatised before bringing it indoors fully, in order to avoid damage. Place it on the southern end of the house where it will not get direct sunlight, while also reducing the quantity of food and water afforded it. You can ascertain whether it has adjusted well and take it indoors when it shows signs of new growth.
Plants have growth spurts during the warmer season, and should be taken outdoors to have fertiliser applied. Water soluble fertilisers have an advantage over organic ones as they are odourless. Fish and organic seaweed are perfect fertilisers as they allow the plants to absorb the essential nutrients. For aesthetic value and rapid growth, it is advisable to prune your plants occasionally. To keep away sap sucking pests, you could spray the plant with a special oil meant for the purpose.
Where to place indoor plants to give them adequate light
Exposure to direct sunlight is detrimental to the health of your indoor plants. On the other hand, lack of sufficient light can lead to pale and unhealthy plants, with thin, long, and weak stems; stunted new leaves, and overall stunted growth. They thrive best in well-lit areas with filtered sunlight. When leaves mature naturally, they turn yellow and fall off.
You need to understand the temperature and sunlight needs of your plant in order to position it best in your home. Plants which thrive in darker places are the Rochford holly fern, the Parlor and Kentia palms, aspidistra and sansevieria. Plants like the Devils ivy, Boston ferns, African violets, the Madonna lily, weeping figs and dracaenas, do well in bright spaces.
Water requirements of indoor plants
A plant needs more water during the summer, and less water if it is kept in dimly lit areas. However, it is advisable to check the soil for dampness before adding more water. Leaving water in the saucer can lead to rotting of the plant root. Brown spots on the leaves signal over watering, which is the greatest cause of plant death.
The best plants for your bathroom
The bathroom can be a tricky room in your home to decorate with plants and flowers. The limited amount of light and excessive humidity can be a nightmare for many plant species, but there are actually some that thrive in just these conditions. Here are some plants that you can keep in your bathroom to add some personal style and help keep the air fresh.
Aloe Vera: Just like many other members of the succulent family, aloes do not require too much attention. They can get by just fine with a dash of sunlight and some water once a week or so.
Bamboo: Lucky bamboo, despite the name, is not actually bamboo. It is a tough indoor plant that will thrive in either water, soil or crystal soil. If its green colour begins to fade or dull, simply make sure your bamboo gets an extra dose of sun.
Chain of hearts: Aptly named, this is one house plant you will love! Its heart-shaped leaves look especially stunning when this plant is displayed as a hanging arrangement. This plant also only needs to be watered moderately during the warmer summer months.
Dieffenbachia: You may know this plant better as dumb cane. It has broad, oval-shaped leaves and can do very well without much light at all. On the other hand, this cream and green beauty will need some extra water to help it flourish.
Ferns: Ferns are known to enjoy rainforest type settings. This means loads of moisture in the air and indirect sunlight.
Figs: With their glossy leaves, figs can handle moderate light but will need some extra water in the summer.
Orchids: Nothing quite compares to the beauty of an orchid. Whether in bloom or not, they will give your bathroom a real touch of class. They do very well with a medium amount of light. You can ease off on the watering during the winter months, but summer calls for a regular watering routine.
Spider Plant: This plant is part of the lily family and does very well without much care at all. It will need an adequate amount of light and looks especially stunning when displayed in hanging form.
Who wouldn’t love to have a maidenhair fern in their living room or their kitchen? With its delicate, lacy appearance and soothing green hues, a maidenhair fern is a resilient plant that can make an ideal addition to your house.
As the name suggests, a maidenhair fern is a type of fern that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. There are many varieties of maidenhair ferns and some varieties, like the \”Fragrans,\” thrive better indoors as they cannot tolerate excessive sunlight. Similarly, other varieties, like the Valley Mist and Rough Maidenhair, are commonly grown outdoors.
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Caring for maidenhair ferns
Location: If you are growing an indoor maidenhair fern, choose a spot that is not prone to temperature fluctuations, like the bathroom. At the same time, make sure that the position remains fixed as maidenhair ferns are very sensitive to changes in moisture, temperature, etc. Indoor ferns can be grown in pots, hanging baskets, or terrariums. Finally, never place them in a dark spot, and protect them from temperature extremes.
If you are interested in growing outdoor ferns, select a spot that is partially shaded since these ferns require only moderate sunlight and an appropriate level of moisture.
Sunlight: They require adequare, yet moderate sunlight. Place them in a well-lit spot but out of direct exposure if outdoors
Water: You will need to water your maidenhair fern regularly as they thrive under high moisture conditions. They also require regular application of liquid fertilisers for proper growth and development. If you are worried that you might forget to water your maidenhair fern regularly, invest in a self-watering pot. These pots have a reservoir of water, which is released into the plant at regular intervals.
Pests: Maidenhair ferns are also prone to infections in the form of pests. Therefore, make sure that you use a protective spray like Confidor, but always use the spray outdoors where there is decent ventilation.
Repotting: Typically, these ferns need to be repotted once in two years. In the meantime, if the ferns become too large, repot and divide them into two or three parts. To ensure regular growth, use high quality potting mixture with adequate levels of sand and peat. While potting, be careful not to insert the crown of the fern inside the soil as this would arrest further growth. Finally, prune dead ends with a simple pair of scissors every now and then.
Maintaining a lawn involves a lot of work, and one of the most important tools that will help you in keeping your lawn neat and trim is a lawnmower. Buying a lawnmower is a decision that should be made with a lot of thought given to the types of lawn mowers available, the area occupied by your lawn and your budget.
Different types of lawnmowers
Manual mower:
Manual mowers are not powered and depend on human effort to carry them ahead. Although they do require a sufficient amount of energy, recent improvements in design have rendered manual lawn mowers easier to operate. They are best suited for small, flat areas that need to be mowed. Some of the pros of buying a manual lawn mower are that they are environmentally friendly and inexpensive.
Electric lawn mowers
Electric lawnmowers are powered by electricity, which is supplied through a power cord. They’re relatively lightweight and small, so they’re ideal for those who don’t fancy the idea of pushing a heavy, monster-sized mower. Electric lawnmowers are also better for the environment, as they don’t produce emissions or fumes, so there’s no pollution. In addition, they’re quieter than petrol-powered motors, so you’re cutting down on noise pollution as well. They are incredibly convenient; all you have to do is make sure that there’s a power outlet nearby and then plug the power cord in. You don’t have to keep petrol on hand, and there is no danger of running out of fuel.
On the downside, there is the inconvenience of having to use a power cord. You need to keep it out of the way while you are moving; otherwise, you could cut right through it with the mower blades. Using a cord may also limit how far you can push your mower. If you have several power outlets located outside, this sound not be a problem, but you will probably have to change outlets a few times if you’re mowing the entire lawn. In addition, electric mowers operate more slowly than petrol ones, as they have a smaller cutting diameter. You are also a bit more limited in setting cutting heights.
Cordless electric lawn mowers are the best option if you do not want the hassle of having to attach a long extension cord every time you need to mow your lawn. Powered by batteries, cordless electric lawn mowers are increasing in popularity, as modern technology allows for batteries to produce power that is sufficient to effectively mow a medium-sized lawn. However, this battery generated power is still not adequate enough to effectively mow long grass.
Petrol lawnmowers
Petrol lawnmowers are fueled by the exact same type of petrol that you get at the service station. They are ideal for larger lawns because you don’t have to worry about accessibility to a power outlet. They use a wide cutting diameter, so you will be able to cut the grass faster. They also handle thick, dense areas of grass remarkably well.
On the downside, you will need to have enough petrol on hand to run the mower, and you’ll also need a place to store the extra petrol. In addition, petrol mowers do produce petrol fumes and emissions, so they’re not an environmentally-friendly choice. Added to that, they’re pretty noisy, and they also tend to be significantly heavier to push than electric mowers. As for maintenance, if you’re using a two-stroke mower, you will need to pour some oil into the petrol before you start; otherwise, four-stroke mowers do just fine without the oil.
Tips for mowing the lawn
The right technique of mowing the lawn is essential to ensure its proper upkeep. An experienced gardener be able to provide expert guidance on how to properly maintain your lawn. However, below we have provided you with some starting tips to make your lawn look beautiful
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Check the height
The recommended height of your grass depends on the breed. If you are unsure, try using the internet to research the optimal length of your grass. Cutting the grass too short can result in opportunities for weeds to grow. Leaving the grass too long can result in damage to your lawnmower blades when you do decide to cut your grass. Furthermore, getting the correct grass length for your grass breed makes your lawn look aesthetically appealing. A basic formula is cutting back one-third the length of the grass blade when mowing.
Add finishing touches
The finishing touches, after mowing, will result in your lawn looking tidier and healthier. Edging and trimming are an essential finishing touch. Edgers help to neatly trim the edge of your lawn, making it look neater when lined up against the pathway or driveway. Trimmers, meanwhile, are more versatile and can be used anywhere to shorten the grass.
Understand basic mowing techniques
The grass will be healthier if the same patch of lawn is not mowed over again repeatedly. Even throughout the same mowing session and every time you mow, try to mow in a different direction. This will help prevent the grass from becoming coarse and dry
Practice safety
Before starting a mowing session check to see if there are any hazards on the lawn. Walk over the lawn and check for objects such as toys that may have been left on your lawn. These objects will get caught in your mower. Wearing protective gear, particularly on your hands and over your eyes will also keep you safe. Always wear close-toed shoes when mowing. If you are susceptible to pollen allergies, take suitable precautions.
Your grass will look healthier when it is mown using these tips / Source: Ken McKay Homes
Help the environment
Instead of using a gas mower, try using an electric or a push mower. In doing this you can cut down your environmental footprint and you will also make less noise. We recommend that the mown grass clippings should be left where they are clipped as they are a form of natural fertiliser and improve the health of your grass.
Mow dry grass
It is best to mow lawns when the grass is dry. Mowing wet grass can increase the chances of your lawn catching diseases. Mowing on wet grass also increases the risk of accidents occurring. Fortunately, it is easier to mow dry grass as the blades do not slip off of the grass. Mowing dry grass will make the cut smoother and cleaner.
When you are deciding to build a house or any other structure; the most important question that comes to the mind is, what type of grass should I install? There are many kinds of grass that you can use, like sod grass or artificial turf.
To decide which is the best option for you, you should consider whether to go for sod or artificial turf. The qualities of the two must be known and especially the characteristic that makes them different from each other.
Qualities of artificial turf
The artificial turf is not synthetic grass that has a texture that is identical to the natural grass. It is made of man-made or synthetic fibres which are most famously used in sports arenas. It was first seen in a stadium in Huston, Texas.
When installing a lawn you have a choice between artificial or natural turf / Source: Protek Design
1. The height is always the same
As this grass is synthetically made; the height always remains the same. The length of it depends on the demand of the customer. It is the same from the time of making, throughout the installation process and even afterwards. It never changes in height.
2. The grass can be moved easily
Unlike other grass types which can’t be moved from one place to the other; artificial turf can be lifted or removed easily. The easy removal makes artificial turn ideal for maintenance of either the turf or the ground on which the turf is laid. Then it can be put back on without any hindrances.
3. Colour is consistent
As the artificial grass is not disturbed by natural elements in nature like air, water and sunlight; the polyethylene grass never changes in colour. It remains the same throughout the lifetime. You have the choice of selecting any tints and shades of green, and the manufacturer can make it for you
4. Low maintenance
Artificial turf requires little maintenance and isn’t reliant on water, air or sunlight to grow. All you need to maintain synthetic grass is sweeping away the debris on it with the help of different kinds of rakes.
Attributes of sod grass
The first choice and most popular real grass option is the sod grass. It is actually a grass but manufactured and then installed on the ground. Sod grass has amazing abilities to grow because it has all the attributes of the typical grass but is enhanced.
1. Appearance is Identical
All of the sod grass that is manufactured is of the same appearance. If you grow the grass by seed, the grass may grow unevenly or not at all through seeds. An advantage of all varieties of sod grass is that they are identical.
2. The texture is the same
The different types of sod that you can purchase have a wide range of textures and colours. They range from full dark green to lighter shades. But the type that you will order will have the same texture and colour of all the bulk order. The density of the grass can be thick to less dense.
3. Appropriate quantity of fertilizers
All types of sod grass need a specific amount of fertilizer. The application of fertilizer is necessary when the soil is to be prepared for the installation. Immediately after the establishment, the sod needs it also. But quarterly or yearly fertilizer is needed for the rest of the sod’s lifetime.
4. Equal Growth Rate
When the sod is mowed; it re-grows at the same rate. It is essential to mow it properly with sharp blades and cutting at the appropriate height. The only reason for the disruption in the height is if the grass has a disease. If you’re not a green thumb, consider hiring a lawn mowing service to get your grass looking cut and clean.
There are other factors that you have to consider when selecting between the artificial turf and sod grass. Both the grasses indeed have some qualities that make you confused. Ultimately, the decision is yours! You should consider basing it on your ability to maintain the grass and your vision for your lawn.
1. Sturdiness over time
The sod grass is sturdier than artificial grass. If one blade of artificial grass is broken or pulls out of the base, it can’t be repaired, and the whole turf has to be replaced. Replacing and repairing sod grass is easier, but the rates can vary.
2. Impact on the environment
A small area of sod grass has the ability to generate a high amount of oxygen. It can also keep the environment cooler as compared to areas where other kinds of grass are seeded. The artificial turf is produced by using human-made materials which need more energy and resources.
How much will you need to budget?
You must think that sod grass needs more money than artificial grass. But that’s not the case; sod grass needs ordinary soil to be installed. The ground for artificial turf has to be made accordingly, which can cost you more than the other.
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Which will last longer?
Although both sod and artificial turf will last long is depends on how well you maintain your grass. Without it, neither if the two can survive. Sod grass has the capability to repair itself; therefore, it can last longer than the artificial turf.
Wrap up
Turf and sod both have their pros and cons. Choice of one over the other mostly depends on the purpose of use. The location, along with personal preference, also influences the decision. At specific areas or climates, turf would be better suited than sod and vice versa. Deliberation on the features of both would help make a better and more suitable choice.
