Pond Articles

Plants In Your Garden

2009-06-11T09:22:00.000-07:00

You may have chosen to install a pond in your backyard in order to grow water lilies and other aquatic plants. But even if you put in a pond to raise fish, or simply to enjoy the soothing sights and sounds of a water feature, plants are still an important part of a pond. They help to filter the water, and keep the water oxygenated, which will help fish to thrive. They also help to blend the pond into the landscape, and make it look more natural. A good selection of water lilies and other flowers will add a touch of color to your pond.

Several types of plants can be planted in and around your pond. A good combination of these plants will help to enhance the pond.

Bog plants and marginal plants are planted around the edges of the pond. The bog plants are placed in moist soil around the edge of the pond, and help to blend the pond in with the landscape. Marginal plants are planted in pots which are submerged in the shallow waters of the pond. The primary difference between a bog plant and a marginal plant is that the bog plants are not planted in the water, while marginal plants are.

Some plants will float on the surface of the pond. Plants such as water hyacinth and water lettuce float freely, with their roots hanging into the water below. Plants like water lilies are planted in pots submerged in the deep parts of the pond. The foliage and flowers float above, on the surface of the water. Both kinds of plants help to shade the water, and keep algae from forming. Water lilies also add a bright touch of color to your pond.

Underwater plants are plants that, as the name suggests, grow underwater. These submerged plants help to filter the water and keep it oxygenated for the fish. They also give the fish a place to hide from predators and from the bright sunlight. These plants also provide a source of food for fish.

Whatever your reasons for installing a pond in your backyard, plants are an important part of a complete water garden. They'll make it look a lot nicer, and help the pond's ecosystem to flourish. The proper plants will help to increase your enjoyment of your little backyard oasis.

Written by Tim Sousa of water, gardens, and fountains. Check out his website at: http://www.water-gardens-fountains.com/water-garden-articles/. Source: iSnare

Concrete Fountains May Be Added To Zen Gardens

2009-02-17T16:45:00.000-08:00

A Zen garden is basically a sand garden with rocks, gravel and occasionally other natural elements such as grasses. They usually do not feature concrete water fountains or anything that is manmade. Although that is not to say concrete fountains can't be added for additional impact. A Zen garden is a place to sit and unwind or to meditate.

The most famous Zen garden is the Ryōan-ji Temple located in Kyoto, Japan. The monks of the temple maintain this ancient Zen garden. Concrete water fountains are not found here. The simple design is done in monochromatic shades of brown. The most interesting feature of this Zen garden are the 15 rocks arranged on the surface of white pebbles in such a manner that visitors can see only 14 of them at once, from whichever angle the garden is viewed. According to legend, only when someone attains spiritual enlightenment as a result of deep Zen meditation can he see the last invisible stone with his mind's eye.

The Simplicity of a Zen Garden

The main elements of a Zen garden are always rocks and sand, with the sea symbolized not by water but by sand raked in patterns that suggest rippling water. Plants are much less important (and sometimes nonexistent) in many Zen gardens. Zen gardens are often, but not always, meant to be viewed from a single, seated perspective, and the rocks are often associated with and named after various Chinese mountains. Some Zen gardens employ a concrete-water-way or a small concrete water fountain for additional tranquility.

With this type of design, less is more, and it's essential to keep it simple - even the concrete water fountains should have simple lines. Creating calming, restful, and soulful Zen gardens is a way of introducing nature into our lives and can help balance our hectic urban existence.

Zen Garden Principles and Practices

A symbolic river (and boulders) made from sand suggests rivers and mountains as a place to create a quiet place for contemplation. A concrete water vessel spilling out water may be used to create this illusion.

Zen gardens contain quiet minimalist features with curving flowing lines and shapes with few visual distractions. They allow one to slow the pace, to discard the day's chaos and to calm down. The space becomes a sanctuary. There can be a focal point, a sculpture or concrete water fountain that engages the mind and eyes, which in turn releases the day's tension. This is a Zen meditation technique in action.

The feng shui principles also advocate gently flowing paths around and through the garden, with no dead ends or right angles. Simplicity and harmony are the basic design elements especially in the concrete water fountains.

Taking a Zen Garden One Step Further

By observing nature you can replicate it even with concrete water fountains. The addition of a water feature heightens its restful quality. The flow and murmur of water are known to calm and inspire and have been used that way for thousands of years. Properly designed water features, with plants, frogs, fish, and continually moving water won't be a mosquito-breeding ground. A garden's pond-less waterfall with moving water provides all the benefits of water without large tracts of land, making it ideal for city dwellers. And it is important (that the garden) is harmonious with the neighbors as well as yourself.

Regardless of the type of Zen garden chosen, all the elements that go into making it - color, plants, hard structures, the concrete water garden and ornaments - need to blend comfortably to form a peaceful garden that delights the physical senses with the sound, smell, and sight. To find unique and distinctive concrete water fountains visit http://www.garden-fountains.com.

New HGTV Home Design Software Allows Homeowners to Develop Home Designs, Renovations and Landscape Plans

2008-12-19T00:41:00.000-08:00

Knowville, Tenn., and Calabasas, Calif. (PRWEB) November 13, 2008 -- For the growing number of consumers looking for ways to enhance their living space, there is new software to create custom designs, renovations and landscape plans. HGTV, the number one home improvement television network, and Nova Development today announced the release of two new home design software titles: HGTV Home & Landscape Platinum Suite and HGTV Home Design & Remodeling Suite. The software enables consumers to quickly and easily enhance their home or create a whole new space without any previous design experience.

HGTV's wizard-driven software offers a wide range of easy-to-use features, incorporating some of the latest technologies. Photorealistic rendering provides 3D views that make it possible to conduct virtual walk-around tours. Customization features provide the ability to drag and drop varying styles of countertops, furniture, appliances and materials such as brick, stone and siding. HGTV software even enables consumers to design living spaces using their own digital photos and import digital pictures of home furnishings to create a custom design.

"At HGTV, we are committed to providing the ideas, inspiration and tools our viewers need to transform their living spaces," said Jim Samples, president, HGTV. "These new comprehensive software products are wonderful resources you can use to create thoughtful and polished home and room designs."

HGTV home design software offer tools for diverse projects such as bathroom makeovers and kitchen remodels. Users can even design a home from scratch. Thousands of sample home plans allow users to quickly generate floor plans with details ranging from roofing and plumbing to home networking and theatre systems.

Both products provide hundreds of options to create beautiful outdoor landscapes including gardens, fences and other exterior features. HGTV Home & Landscape Platinum Suite includes more advanced landscaping tools to plan lighting, irrigation and driveways, plus an encyclopedia of 7,500 plants and designs for decks, water features and barbecues.

"The quality and functionality of HGTV's design software makes it a great investment for consumers looking to plan their own home design projects," said Roger Bloxberg, CEO of Nova Development, publisher of the new software titles. "Our goal is to provide consumers with easy-to-use software that produces professional-looking results."

The software also provides additional design assistance with more than 30 HGTV how-to video tips and free technical support.

HGTV Home Design & Remodeling Suite is affordably priced at $49.99. HGTV Home & Landscape Platinum Suite, which also includes a comprehensive collection of landscaping and deck design options, is available for only $99.99.

Both software titles are available at www.homedesignsoftware.tv and through major retailers nationwide. For a limited time, consumers can enter a sweepstakes to win a makeover worth $10,000. To register for the sweepstakes or for more product information, visit www.hgtv.com/software.

HGTV's home design software is compatible with Microsoft Windows XP and Vista and requires 1GB RAM; CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive; a color monitor 1024 x 768 display or higher and an Internet connection for Internet features such as additional home plan templates.

About HGTV: HGTV, America's leader in home and lifestyle programming, is distributed to more than 96 million U.S. households and is one of cable's top-rated networks. HGTV's website, HGTV.com, is the nation's leading online home-and-garden destination which attracts an average of 5 million unique visitors per month. HGTV owns 33 percent of HGTV Canada and provides much of the Canadian network's daily programming. The network's branded programming also can be seen in 120 territories across all seven continents and its selected programming is available to military personnel onboard Navy ships and through American Forces Radio & Television Service (AFRTS), which services more than 1,000 outlets in over 175 countries. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Los Angeles, Nashville, New York and San Francisco, HGTV is wholly owned by Scripps Networks, which also operates Food Network, DIY Network, Fine Living Network and Great American Country.

About Nova Developmen: Based in Southern California, Nova Development is a market leader in personal productivity and home graphics software for both the Windows and Macintosh platforms. Nova Development is the retail publisher of the best-selling Hallmark® Card Studio, the Berlitz® language learning software series, and the Sesame Street® line of early learning titles, among many other products. For more information, visit Nova Development at www.novadevelopment.com.

IntelliTurf Introduces New Business Development Director Robert Rooks

2008-12-19T00:35:00.000-08:00

IntelliTurf, Inc., makes new hire to help manage the company's growth with its popular recyclable putting greens and artificial turf business.

Atlanta (PRWEB) October 24, 2008 -- IntelliTurf, Inc. has named Robert Rooks as director of Business Development. Robert joins the company at a time it is experiencing tremendous growth. With a record number of municipalities limiting the use of water for irrigation and the drought that has occurred around the southeast, more properties owners are realizing the beauty and benefits of artificial turf grasses. The natural look and feel of artificial turf available today allows for an excellent alternative to natural grass.

Mr. Rooks has a long history of building loyal customers and providing excellent assistance through his previous work with Russell Stover's Candies and United Distributors. His most recent occupation, and no doubt, most recognizable, was with Atlanta's premier outfitter, the Fish Hawk in Buckhead. The company offers 100% recyclable golf greens, lawn systems and play areas. IntelliTurf's products help save water when compared to natural grass. "With the current drought conditions, our product is the perfect solution for many businesses and homeowners," says Rooks. "Add the fact that IntelliTurf's products are heavy metal free and recyclable pretty much makes them 'environmentally green'."

Rob feels, "The potential for these products is limitless. These are virtually maintenance free amenities that can only add value to commercial properties as well as homes. IntelliTurf installs attractive, functional products that put smiles on peoples' faces, it makes too much sense."

About IntelliTurf, Inc: IntelliTurf, Inc, a construction and design firm that serves the multi-housing, landscaping, recreation, and golf industries, is an industry leader in synthetic putting greens (http://www.intelliturf.com), lawn systems and play areas. With business roots that date back to 1998, The corporate headquarters are here in Atlanta with franchise locations in Utah and Oklahoma. IntelliTurf has the capability to service projects anywhere in the world and looks to expand its franchise system across the U.S. over the next few years. For more information, please contact us at (404) 386-5881 and on the web at www.IntelliTurf.com.

Winter Landscape Prep Tips For Homeowners

2008-12-19T00:30:00.000-08:00

Now is the best time to protect and prepare your landscape for the colder winter months. One of the main benefits of living in Arizona is that the winter months are generally mild, however, getting ready for cold days will help you preserve your plants and spend more time outside enjoying your backyard.

Tempe, AZ (PRWEB) September 23, 2008 -- Fall is almost here and now is the best time to protect and prepare Arizona outdoor landscapes for the colder winter months. One of the main benefits of living in Arizona is that the winter months are generally mild, however, getting ready for cold days will help homeowners preserve plants and spend more time outside enjoying their backyards.

"We have been helping Arizona clients create and maintain unique landscapes for more than 50 years," said John Waters, Co-Owner of Creative Environments. "Our customers have found these tips to be invaluable in maintaining enjoyable outdoor environments. We pride ourselves on designing adaptable outdoor environments that Arizona residents are able to enjoy year-round, whether it's 110 degrees in summer or 30 degrees in winter."

Creative Environments Design & Landscape offers the following fall and winter landscape preparation tips for Arizona residents:
• Fall is the best time to plant trees, shrubs and grass. Plants need time to grow their roots, especially if they're new. By planting in the fall, plants can grow roots into December or January and then continue growing in the spring before the hot, dry summer season hits.
• Fall is also the best time to plant flowering bulbs like tulips and daffodils. Keep in mind, however, that some perennials need to be protected in the winter. Once it starts getting cold and the tops of the plants die off, cut the stems down to the ground and put a generous layer of fresh mulch around them.
• Overseeding your lawn in the fall will help you improve the look of your lawn year-round. Overseeding is the process of seeding over your existing lawn, helping to get rid of weeds and thicken the appearance of your lawn. By overseeding in the fall, the new grass will have several months to establish a strong root system before summer. Overseeding is easy, but requires diligence and commitment for several weeks!
• It is also a good idea to fertilize in the fall rather than in the spring. By fertilizing now, your trees, shrubs and lawn will absorb all of the vital nutrients necessary to survive the winter and rejuvenate in the spring.
• Lastly, we encourage residents to get the most of their investment. It is important to spend time in your outdoor environment, even when it's cold outside. By warming up your romantic nook, your quiet reading space or your entertainment patio, you will be able to spend more time enjoying it. An outdoor fireplace can provide a warm and cozy atmosphere. Outdoor heaters can also warm up the space - they are a much more practical option, as they are affordable and take up much less space.

To learn more about Creative Environments fall and winter landscape design and preparation services call 480-458-4100 or Request a Landcaping Quote at the website.

About Creative Environments: Creative Environments Design & Landscape, an industry leader since 1950, is the largest and most respected Arizona landscape construction and design company. We continue to win local and national landscaping and remodel awards from industry peers, as well as receive the honor of #1 Landscape Design / Build Company, as voted by the residents of the Phoenix-metro area.

Although unique and functional design is our passion, outstanding customer service is our number one priority. Our talented Design and Construction Consultants will listen to you and then they will use their expertise to develop an integrated and architectural-quality design plan that will create the outdoor living space of your dreams.

With our specialized construction crews and a fully-staffed customer care department, you can rest assured that your entire outdoor living environment will be installed correctly and on time.

Creative Environments can be found online at www.CreativeEnvironments.com.

Pond Building Site Set to Change the Way Hobbyists Get and Share Information

2008-12-19T00:24:00.000-08:00

Pond hobbyists, novices and experts alike won't want to miss the official launch of BuildingMyPond.com. This community-based resource site offers interactive features and a bi-weekly ponding podcast. It also offers a place for anyone interested in developing a backyard paradise to share their experiences and get their questions answered.

Didsbury, AB (PRWEB) November 12, 2008 -- A new community-based site for pond builders has officially launched. The site contains bi-weekly podcasts, interviews with experts, great tips, articles, and it offers a place for anyone to share their knowledge and get their questions answered. Hosted by successful publisher Garth Epp, Building My Pond.com, promises to change the way hobbyists and experts alike get and share information on topics related to developing, building or maintaining a pond or water garden within their landscape.

Building My Pond is a free community-based site that is intended to help educate hobbyists everything there is to know about the topic. At launch the site already includes podcast interviews from well known and accomplished experts within the industry.

Newcomers to the community will definitely want to become a site member and receive the free Introductory Pond Builders Package which includes a How to Build a Pond downloadable book (with images) and 2 interviews with top industry professionals; pond water quality expert and CEO of Pond Alliance Aaron Powers as well as the innovator and creator of American Pond Kits and CEO of Graystone Industries, John Olson.

Visitors will also want to listen to the bi-weekly Smarter Water Garden Advisor Series Podcast interview with experts within the water gardening industry. Along with the current interviews there are also many upcoming episodes that will feature successful and accomplished industry experts.

Posted podcasts include the interview with well known pond builder, Eric Triplet, aka the Pond Digger. Eric has not only won many pond building awards, but has designed and built many high profile projects such as those featured at Walt Disney World Resort Epcot Centers, International Flower and Garden Show in Florida. He has also been featured on two episodes of ABC TV's Extreme Home Makeover.

For those people considering incorporating koi into their pond they won't want to miss the interview with Barbara Johnson, aka The Fish Lady. In the interview she shares her unique story from which she went from the Hollywood film industry into the business of koi. She shares her holistic approach and philosophy of developing and maintaining a healthy thriving koi pond.

It isn't just the podcast that makes Building My Pond the place to go for information on pond building. There are also great tips on how to choose the right location for a pond, how to winter your pond, articles on water gardening, and even money saving tips for hobbyists wishing to build a backyard pond or water garden.

One of the best things about this new site though, is its community-based nature. It is this element that will make Building My Pond.com the place to go for information on topics related to pond building.

When Garth Epp set out to create the ultimate hobbyist site, it wasn't enough to just give like-minded people a place to learn. He also wanted to create a place for anyone interested in the topic to share and collaborate. With BuildingMyPond.com he has done just that.

Site members can post to the pond forums to ask questions, and have those questions answered by more experienced ponders and even some industry experts. There is also a blog feature that allows anyone to create their own ponding journal and share their own experiences, successes and failures.

Experts will also benefit from this community. Industry experts can gain exposure for their own products / services, and share their expertise by taking part in interviews and answering questions for people who just want to know the right way to accomplish a task.

This new site really is expected to become the place to go for anyone interested in ponds. It will be interesting to watch as Garth Epp and his site change the way people communicate on topics related to ponds.

There really is some truth to the adage "the best things in life can be found in your own backyard". For those who want to find that truth, they'll likely want to get started with their own backyard pond, and a great way to accomplish the task is by learning on BuildingMyPond.com.

About BuildingMyPond.com: The web site is the brainchild of successful editor, and publisher, Garth Epp. With a life long intrigue and love of water, Garth began his personal pond education and discovered there was a need for a place for people to go to learn and interact about the subject. It was with this mission and vision that he set out to create a place where hobbyists could learn, share, and collaborate on the topic. For more information please visit http://www.buildingmypond.com. The site if free to join, and offers a place for anyone to share and learn on any topic related to developing, building or maintaining a water feature.

PondWorld.com Makes Pond Filtration Easier with the Addition of Several New Pond Filter Systems

2008-09-18T09:12:00.001-07:00

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) August 12, 2008 -- PondWorld.com bolsters its pond filter line with the addition of 4 new pond filtration systems from Pentair Aquatics that include the UNO, DUO, TRIO filter systems and the Lifegard All-In-One pond filtration system.

All 4 of these pond filters are complete systems that include a pump, biological and mechanical filtration and spray nozzles, with the Lifegard All-In-One system also containing a UV filter to help with planktonic algae control to help insure clear pond water. All systems are intended for submersed applications and are simple plug and play installation meaning place the filter in the desired location and plug it in.

These pump systems can accommodate ponds up to 2500 gallons according to the manufacturer. UNO pond filters are rated for ponds up to 1000 gallons, DUO systems for ponds up to 1700 gallons and TRIO systems for ponds up to 2500 gallons. An add-on cartridge can be also be added to the UNO and DUO to increase its filtration capacity. The Lifegard All-In-One system is rated for ponds from 300 gallons to 1500 gallons.

For more information on these and the other pond filters offered by PondWorld.com, visit www.pondworld.com.

About PondWorld.com: Pond World, LLC, through its website PondWorld.com, is a retailer of pond supplies (http://www.pondworld.com) and lake supplies including water treatments, pumps, filters, maintenance supplies, kits, aerators, fountains and fish and plant supplies. PondWorld.com is focused on being a one-stop shop for all types of pond owners looking to build and maintain a clean and healthy pond or lake.

California Garden Artist Creates Stunning Water Features, Intoxicating Garden Art, and Dazzling Bar Counters with Recycled Wine Bottles

2008-09-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

California Garden Artist Scott Cohen has made headlines in the residential landscape arena with his stunning water features, intoxicating garden art, and dazzling bar counters made from recycled wine bottles. Next up: unique recycled wine bottle bar counters and other works of art for wineries, restaraunts, and bars.

Canoga Park, CA (PRWEB) August 15, 2008 -- There's a new wine bar opening up in the neighborhood and it may be in your own backyard. Many homeowners are enjoying a fresh twist in garden design - one that indulges their passion for outdoor living and their passion for good wine at the same time. By integrating vine-inspired features into their outdoor décor, wine aficionados and winery owners can create the perfect environment for savoring their favorite gifts from nature.

"More homeowners are paying tribute to wine in their outdoor rooms because of what it represents to them," says award winning garden designer, Scott Cohen. "When people open a bottle of wine, they're not just sharing a drink, they're sharing an experience. They're enjoying good company, good conversation, and romance. They're making memories."

Cohen has created a number of outdoor spaces for his wine enthusiast clients with his company, The Green Scene, a Canoga Park-based outdoor design and construction firm. In his gardens, the bottles from favorite vintages offer a charming building material that sparkles like stained glass. Wine bottle waterfalls glisten with multicolored lights. Countertops are inlayed with glass tiles created from the melted bottles of wine and spirits. In one, a grapevine mosaic of green and brown bottle glass weaves its way through shimmering clusters of glass grapes.

Not only are these features a great way for wine lovers to share their hobby, they offer creative opportunities to reuse and recycle as well. "Recycling is a major component of our environmental philosophy and we're always looking for new ways to use old materials," says Cohen. "Those bottles represent good times with friends. Why throw them away when they make a perfect building material?"

Whole bottles can be used somewhat like glass block. Cohen builds outdoor kitchen counters and wine-tasting bars by stacking multiple bottles on top of each other and fusing them together to create sturdy walls of glass that glitter like sunlit jewels.

Bottles can also be melted down for interesting effects. In one project, recently featured on Home and Garden Television, a concrete countertop embedded with crushed recycled glass is adorned with a playful parade of glass tiles in the shape of wine and scotch bottles. Each is an actual bottle melted flat and polished smooth to fit seamlessly into the surface.

"Melting glass is tricky," says Cohen. "If you catch it at just the right moment a bottle will melt but still hold its basic shape. It's the same bottle but now it's flat enough to serve as a unique glass inlay."

Of course, men and women do not live on wine alone and some homeowners prefer to honor other beverages of choice. Cohen has created quite a few gardens for martini fancying clients as well. In one, a custom tile backsplash features a festive gathering of olives that seem to dance above a lively set of martini glasses.

"This client told me straight up (pun intended), that he loves to make martinis," says Cohen. "So we stole a glass from his bar to create a mold for the martini tiles. We cut an olive in half to create a mold for the olives." Beneath the martinis stands an assortment of bottle-shaped tiles in every size and color. Each member of the family had a hand in painting these. The result is a joyful mosaic that sets the tone for high-spirited fun.

While these outdoor rooms are striking at any time of day, a creative use of lighting can make them really come alive at night. Cohen combines low voltage lighting with fiber optics to create features that put on a captivating nighttime show. In one award winning project, he used innovative lighting techniques to add color and motion to a waterfall constructed of stacked glass bottles. Each bottle is outfitted with one or two fiber-optic cables. A hidden sparkler wheel sends soft ripples of glowing color through the water as it pours from the bottles.

Even without the special motion effects, people enjoy playing with light. "Anytime you add light, you also add entertainment value," says Cohen. "When you have counters lit from below, you'll see guests holding their drinks over the various lights and colors to see how they look through different glasses. It can be mesmerizing."

When asked what his favorite project is, Cohen responds with a wink and a smile, "My next project is always my favorite". As an environmentalist artist, he enjoys working with recycled materials and seeks opportunities to work on a grander scale. He is currently seeking high profile projects at wineries, public art displays, restaurants, and bars.

Cohen, an accomplished sculptor and ceramicist, perfects his techniques in his home studio, which is fully outfitted with a potter's wheel, three kilns, slab rollers, a clay extruder, and a wide assortment of casts and molds. His work has been featured in numerous national media including the book Ultimate Outdoor Kitchens by Michelle Kodis and HGTV's recent special, Sizzling Outdoor Kitchens. What's next on his "to do" list? Well, Cohen does have some very interesting custom design ideas up his sleeve for the right winery.

Landscape Garden Artist Scott Cohen Takes Top Award for Pool and Spa Design

2008-09-17T14:14:00.000-07:00

Acclaimed landscape garden artisan Scott Cohen was recently presented with a 2008 Masters of Design Award from Pool and Spa News for a Calabasas, CA backyard design. This is the second time Cohen and his Los Angeles-based outdoor design and construction firm, The Green Scene, have been selected for this top honor.

Canoga Park, CA (PRWEB) August 27, 2008 -- Acclaimed landscape garden artisan Scott Cohen was recently presented with a 2008 Masters of Design Award from Pool and Spa News. This is the second time Cohen and his Los Angeles-based outdoor design and construction firm, The Green Scene, have been selected for this top honor.

The Masters of Design Award recognizes spectacular pool and spa projects that push the boundary of great design. This time Cohen was selected for his work on an exceptional backyard for a Calabasas, California residence.

"I designed and built every aspect of this project including the patio covers, fireplace and decorative iron pavilion. This project tapped into everything I've learned how to do over the past 20 years and required every bit of creativity that I could muster for a project," says Cohen. "I am honored to receive the Masters of Design Award for this backyard resort. My entire team is excited to receive the recognition from our peers and the accolades that come with this coveted award."

The award-winning yard features a sweeping poolscape that takes full advantage of the property's rolling hillside views while showing off the home's elegant Tuscan-inspired architecture. To create this European style retreat, Cohen combined rustic hardscape materials with elegant old-world detailing, including a patio pavilion arrayed with intricate iron scrollwork. The fan-shaped, vanishing edge pool pristinely reflects the arches, columns, and ironwork of the home and yard. Its dramatic shape creates a focal point that draws the viewer's eye toward the center of the house.

During his twenty plus year career, Cohen's innovative work has garnered numerous other awards and has attracted national media attention. In March of this year, Cohen swept the annual Western Pool and Spa Show Design Contest with a total of seven awards in five categories, including first place in the top three categories.

His outdoor creations are frequently featured on Home and Garden Television. This project and many others are featured on a new HGTV show, Get Out, Way Out, and his work has been showcased in a number of other HGTV programs, including Sizzling Outdoor Kitchens, Big Splash, Landscaper's Challenge and Designing for the Sexes.

Cohen provides outdoor design consultation for clients throughout Southern California and by phone nationwide. Many of Cohen's designs are also available through Fetch-A-Sketch (www.fetchasketch.com), an online resource for ready-to-use perspective drawings and construction plans.

Landscape Design Site.com Add More Design Plans Including Pond Plans!

2008-09-17T14:10:00.000-07:00

The Landscape Design Site has redesigned its site to be more visual, picture, and video oriented. With the addition of new pictures and videos directories, the site has become a popular resource for landscaping and garden design ideas.

Carlsbad, NM (PRWEB) September 4, 2008 -- With recent developments and the addition of more landscaping videos, plans, and pictures galleries, The Landscape Design Site.com has almost doubled the information and content available on the site. Since its beginning in 2002, The Landscape Design Site.com has provided the do it yourself community with an extensive well organized source of landscaping and garden design ideas. And it continues to grow and improve with new videos, pictures, and ideas being added every day.

The Landscape Design Site was created by professional landscape designer Steve Boulden of S&S Designed Landscaping to offer his personal knowledge and expertise freely at no charge. In fact, one of the most popular areas within the site is a landscaping ideas gallery where Mr. Boulden has put up pictures of his own design projects along with detailed explanations of each and every concept behind them. A freelance writer who visited the site doing research on landscaping commented that "the enthusiasm for what Steve Boulden does comes out in his writing. It's as though the "new" hasn't worn off yet."

On top of this site's great design explanations and useful tips, it also boasts one of the most extensive collections of free landscaping pictures on the Internet. Recently, an even larger collection of landscaping ideas pictures has been added to the site's already massive library. Now, between both of these galleries, there are thousands of pictures available to help people get ideas for their own landscaping projects.

Within the last month, The Landscape Design Site has seen even further growth as two new, major projects were begun. The first project, which has only just started the developmental process but has a good inventory, is a new Landscaping Videos directory. Similar to the pictures and plans directories, this section of the site will offer visitors useful videos on topics such as gardening, planting ideas, planning, design, and more.

The second of these, which is the most developed so far, is a new directory offering great landscaping and garden plans advice and tips. Within this directory, users will be able to find hundreds of design plans from many different professional designers and contractors.

As it was before, The Landscape Design Site could stand alone as a complete resource for landscaping and garden design ideas. However, with the addition of videos, more landscaping pictures galleries, and new plans, it is sure to appeal to an even larger group of do it yourselfers and home owners.

About The Landscape Design Site: The Landscape Design Site.com is an online do it yourself resource that offers free landscaping ideas, pictures, plans, and advice to do it yourselfers and home owners.

A Fire Pit Beside The Pond

2008-09-17T14:01:00.000-07:00

http://firepit-plans.com is a new site that offers a unique do-it-yourself inspirational plan to building fire pits, the guide offers tips and advice on operating and constructing fire pits in the outdoors, house garden or backyard. The fire pit planner guide is a source of information for any fire pit enthusiast, and can serve as an inspiration for the self construction of a custom made fire pit, that can serve both for cooking and outdoor decorations or any other design purposes.

Limassol, Cyprus (PRWEB) September 10, 2008 -- FirePitPlans.com and its new informational electronic guide "The Fire Pit Planner Guide" are offering a unique perspective on outdoor features to the late summer barbecue enthusiasts and people who enjoy the outdoors. Fire Pit Planner guide's 40 pages of detailed explanations and a multitude of advice and tips, this fire pit plans builder guide can do wonders for those who have used simple barbecues all their lives but aspired for much more. Among the chapters in this guide you can find maintenance tips, building basic advice and ideas, detailed graphic illustrations of fire pit design ideas, safety tips and even some open flame barbecue cooking ideas and tips.

This guide was born out of simple necessity, the idea of providing inspirational graphics and information about constructing fire pits in gardens and backyards to avid barbecue lovers was created because of the flow of on line requests for fire pit plans and fire pit design ideas, these requests came from people who were tired of the same old charcoal barbecue design or the outdoor kitchen unit in their garden.

"The Fire Pit Planner Guide" started as concept site with 3-4 pages of some rough design thoughts about an outdoor stone or brick fire place unit, mostly as a outdoor feature that will compliment the garden and put it into some use during the cold winter months. "At first we just thought about how to tell people that they can build some kind of fire feature elements in their gardens and use it when they have guests in their living room, or just as a nice romantic view" says one of the two creators of the site, "no one had any idea that there were literally hundreds of grill masters out there that really wanted to build their own unique fire pit, and all they asked was a basic idea and fire pit plan to get the basics out of the way, the rest didn't matter to them - they want their own design in their own garden, and that makes sense".

Already making its big break into the fire pit world, the fire pit planner guide has already made some fans around the globe, from Europe and the mid east to Florida and California it seems like the barbecue and DIY enthusiasts are responding with excitement to this new idea, some already sending feedback and ideas back to the creators of the fire pit planner guide, so it can be upgraded and updated in the future.

For more information check out their website at: http://firepit-plans.com/

Sunrooms Make A Great Place To View A Pond!

2008-07-18T10:15:00.000-07:00

Top Ten Things to look for in a Sunroom from Patio Enclosures: Patio Enclosures, Inc., the largest manufacturer and installer of sunrooms in North America highlights the top ten things to look for in a sunroom.

Macedonia, Ohio (PRWEB) July 17, 2008 -– Patio Enclosures, Inc., the largest manufacturer and installer of sunrooms in North America highlights the top ten things to look for in a sunroom.

Perhaps you’ve recently been in a sunroom or have seen one in a magazine or on TV and are thinking about owning one yourself. Great! Just as there are many different types of homes, there are lots of different sunroom styles constructed using different materials and features. Here are ten things to look for when shopping for a new sunroom.

1. Styles of Roofs and Roof Panels - Make sure that the sunroom company offers a wide choice of sunroom roofs to match your existing homes roof. Do they offer a choice of solid insulated roof panels, or structural insulated panel system (SIPS) that are ENERGY STAR® rated. Can the company build a custom wood roof, or provide a glass roof system to match the style of sunroom you desire?

2. Trim Packages – For enhanced features and to better integrate the looks of your sunroom with your home, ask about trim packages that include interior molding, custom wood ceiling finishes, electrical race ways for lighting and cable connections. Blinds and shades can enhance your sunrooms looks, comfort and provide greater privacy.

3. Glass Options - Since a sunroom is typically comprised of 70 to 95 percent glass, glass selection requires careful consideration. Depending on planned use of your sunroom and orientation to the sun, single pane glass maybe sufficient. However if you plan to extend the seasonal use of your sunroom or use the room year round, double-pane insulated glass should be considered. In addition you may want to consider additional glass options like tints and low-e coatings offered by the sunroom company. These options will enhance comfort by reducing heat gain and loss in both warm and cold weather climates, filter harmful UV rays, and minimize glare.

4. Screens - Unless you want to invite bugs and other critters inside when you open a window, these are very important. Ask whether aluminum screens are available. Nylon and fiberglass screens eventually sag, and grasshoppers like can chew through nylon screens. Aluminum screens are easier to see through and stay cleaner. Screen panel frames on steel ball bearing and nylon wheel rollers reduce track wear and eliminate rust and sticking.

5. Door and Window Locks - Maintaining your home’s security is vital so don’t overlook locking systems for your sunroom. Dual-point locking systems with top and bottom throw bolts eliminate the need for dead-bolts or lock assisting systems. Secondary night latches allow doors and windows to be kept in partially open position to permit ventilation while maintaining security. They also provide additional latching point out of reach of smaller children.

6. Three Season vs. Year-round Sunrooms - Seasonal sunrooms are not designed to be heated or air conditioned, and in northern climates, can generally be used from early spring to late fall. In Southern climates, a seasonal sunroom can often be used all year based on your selection of glass options. Year-round enclosures use thermally insulated glass, thermal barriers in the frames and can be heated and air conditioned for year-round use in accordance with local building codes. Strongly consider ENERGY STAR ® rated glass doors and windows, and ENERGY STAR® components such as floors and roof panels to ensure the highest energy-efficiency and maximum comfort in a year-round sunroom.

7. Aluminum vs. Vinyl Sunrooms - This is more a matter of what looks best on your home. If you already have vinyl siding, go with a vinyl sunroom. Both aluminum and structurally reinforced vinyl offer clean, rust-free, low maintenance exteriors that will last for decades.

8. Sunroom View - Select a company that can design and manufacture your sunroom so that it fits your home. To meet required dimensions, many sunroom companies use standard sized-doors and windows and opaque filler materials and knee-walls that obstruct an occupants’ view of the outdoors and detracts from your home. Look for companies that can provide floor-to-ceiling and wall-to-wall glass for a high-quality custom sunroom look. The point of a sunroom is to provide you an outdoor experience but still maintain indoor comfort. This experience is obviously diminished if you can’t see the outdoors.

9. Installation time - The last thing you need are workers tracking through your home for weeks on end. Get a realistic estimate on the time it will take and how soon your new sunroom will be ready to move into. Most established sunroom companies can construct a customized sunroom for you in two to five days depending on the size and complexity of the room after permitting and foundation preparations are complete.

10. ENERGY STAR® Windows and Doors - With energy prices at record highs, this is one option you can’t afford to pass on if you plan to use your sunroom year-round. Find a sunroom company that offers insulated windows and doors, roof panels and flooring that are ENERGY STAR® rated for better comfort and lower energy costs. Depending on how long you own your home, these will pay for themselves.

Hopefully, the advice here will help you shop for a sunroom that will provide you with everything you need to add living space, natural daylight and a relaxing place to enjoy an outdoor environment for as long as you own your home. For more information, visit Patio Enclosures or contact a local sunroom design consultant for a free sunroom design consultation.

About Patio Enclosures, Inc: Patio Enclosures, Inc. has been recognized for several years by Qualified Remodeler Magazine as the Top Performing Sunroom Company in North America. Patio Enclosures, Inc. operates 30 branch locations across the United States and Canada and has more than 750 employee-owners. The company also operates casual living furniture stores in suburban Cleveland and in Pittsburgh. For more information check out their website at: http://www.patioenc.com/

Are Trees Overpowering Your Landscape?

2008-07-16T08:43:00.001-07:00

Pools, ponds, gardens and walkways are just a few of the areas that can be dramatically impacted by overgrown trees. Additionally, structural defects can make trees vulnerable to damage in summer storms. In the press release below, Lou Giroud, ISA Certified Arborist and President of Giroud Tree Service, gives tips your readers can use to make their trees live in harmony and safety with their landscapes.

Huntingdon Valley, PA (PRWEB) July 14, 2008 -- It's summer and time to enjoy your landscape. It's also a time when trees in full leaf can overpower your landscape and pose a safety hazard.

"Trees that looked fine through the winter and spring can suddenly overwhelm your landscape by summer," says Lou Giroud, President of Giroud Tree Service and ISA Certified Arborist. Towering over your pool or patio, trees in full leaf can darken your leisure time. Flowers and other understory plants can struggle from lack of sun. Low hanging branches and encroaching roots can make walkways and driveways an obstacle course. From a safety standpoint, trees with structural weaknesses like cracked limbs or trunks are most likely to break or fall when the next storm hits.

"There are several ways you can help your trees work in harmony with your landscape and reduce the potential for storm damage, explains Mr. Giroud. "The key is to identify the specific goal you want to achieve. Homeowners should contact their Certified Arborist to evaluate the situation and recommend the best action which can include:"

1. Train your trees to live in harmony with your landscape: Thin crowns to allow more light on pools, patios or gardens. Train tree to grow in a better direction by pruning branches growing the wrong way back to lateral branches that are growing in right direction. Eliminate or prune lower branches of trees hanging over driveways and walks Prune roots that are cracking or lifting walks and driveways while ensuring the tree has a sufficient root system to remain stable and healthy.

2. Improve safety: Remove dead, rotted and weakly attached limbs. Thin the crown to reduce wind resistance, weight and the likelihood of breakage. Install Cables or Bolts to secure weakly attached limbs or trees with multiple trunks: Your Arborist needs to select the best hardware and placement for your specific situation.

3. Remove trees that pose a safety hazard or can't be adapted to the space. For trees that are simply in the wrong place, the best solution might be removal and replacement with a tree that is better suited to the location. Trees with conditions that pose a danger to your property such as dead trees, unstable root systems or structural defects that can not be repaired or treated must be removed. These conditions make trees most vulnerable to damage from storms.

A tree's health is fragile and overzealous pruning can be harmful or even fatal." cautions Mr. Giroud. "To protect the safety and health of your trees, your Arborist should never top a tree or in most cases remove more than 30% of a tree's crown. You can ensure your trees live a long, healthy life in harmony with your landscape by hiring an ISA Certified Arborist to monitor and care for your trees."

About Giroud Tree Service: Giroud Tree Service has been dedicated to keeping trees healthy and customers happy since 1974. Serving Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties, the company specializes in property inspections, diagnosis and testing, tree and shrub care, insect and disease control, tick control, deer repellent, brush clearing, fertilizing, and tree and stump removal. Giroud arborists are certified by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and have the knowledge and experience required to successfully diagnose, treat and maintain the health of your trees. The company was awarded Angie's Super Service Award® in 2005, 2006 and 2007, as well as the Consumers' checkbook top rating for quality. The "Giroud Tree work for Charity" program donates free tree care services to parks, historical sites and other non-profit organizations located in the Company's service area. For more information, visit their website at www.giroudtree.com or call them at 215-682-7704.

Backyard Concrete Countertops For Outdoor Space By The Pond

2008-06-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

Concrete countertops, known for their versatility and functionality indoors, are quickly becoming a common staple of outdoor kitchen design. Explore ConcreteNetwork.com's new section on outdoor countertops for a detailed overview of how counters are made, design options, pricing, countertop photos and more.

Yucaipa, CA (PRWEB) June 27, 2008 -- With a season of outdoor entertaining upon us, it's no wonder that families across the country are exploring more ways to update their outdoor living and cooking areas. Growing Internet search trends show that homeowners and designers are focusing their sights on concrete as a material of choice for creating custom outdoor countertops.

The Concrete Network has put together a multitude of articles on why concrete counters are so popular, how to take advantage of their versatility, what color options are available, and insights into how they're designed, created and built. Because of these factors and many more, outdoor countertops made of concrete are proving to be the best choice in outdoor kitchen design.

"People want to have something they can show off, not something that mimics what their friends or neighbors have," explains Terry Stogner of Concrete Interiors in Calif. "Concrete is the only material that allows you to customize just about every aspect of it, including color, shape, thickness, and texture."

Concrete's irresistible appeal can be attributed to its look of distinction, its natural qualities, and superior craftsmanship. Concrete can be formed in any shape or size, and can be colored to match nearly any hue. Intricate edge details, inlays and backsplashes can also be incorporated to create a completely personalized workspace. Concrete is also known to stand up to a range of weather conditions found across the country, from icy to wet conditions and windy to dry climates--concrete is perfect for outdoor entertaining.

With the availability of numerous design options, the task of choosing the perfect counter design can get complicated. Start by researching other concrete countertop installations in magazines or visit an online photo gallery for hundreds of examples.

Established in 1999, The Concrete Network's purpose is to educate consumers, builders, and contractors on popular decorative techniques and applications. These include stamped concrete, stained concrete floors, concrete countertops, polished concrete, and much more. In 2007 The Concrete Network Website had over 11 million visitors researching decorative concrete.

The site excels at connecting buyers with local contractors in their area through its Find a Concrete Contractor service. The service provides visitors with a list of decorative concrete contractors throughout the U.S. and Canada, and is fully searchable by 23 types of decorative concrete work and 202 regional areas throughout North America.

For more information check out there website at www.concretenetworkcom.

Environmental company releases information on controlling algae in ponds

2008-06-25T14:26:00.000-07:00

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) June 24, 2008 -- Natural Environmental Systems has published an authoritative in-depth articles on controlling pond algae on its website http://www.naturalenviro.com/.

The article discusses the common types of algae pond owners encounter along with methods to controlling it including the controversial use of algaecides, which the article notes is simply a "short-term" solution. The bulk of the article, however, focuses on the more natural, long-term approach.

"This time of year, most of our business comes from customers looking for a solution to an algae problem in their pond. Most people have fish or use their pond for recreation and are really trying to avoid chemicals. It is for those people that this article was written," states Casey Coke, Natural Environmental Systems. "We feel like the best customer is an informed customer and there is a lot to know to successfully control algae in ponds."

The article notes that for long term algae control three things must be achieved. The nutrient load of the pond must be reduced and controlled, the water should receive some sort of shade to protect the water from sunlight penetration and the pond should be well oxygenated to prevent stagnation and to fuel beneficial aerobic bacteria.

The full length article is titled Algae Control 101 and can be found in the Articles section of the website and linked to from many of the product pages.

About Natural Environmental Systems, LLC: Natural Environmental Systems is a worldwide supplier of biological products, including Pond Keeper brand pond supplies. The product line consists of multiple pond bacteria products, water conditioners, water clarifiers, pond and lake dyes, phosphate control, barley straw extract, stone and waterfall cleaner and even polished pond stones. The company is also an authorized distributor of GreenClean and GreenClean Pro algaecides, which are fish-safe, non copper-based algae killers. For more information check out their website at: www.naturalenviro.com

New Water Treatments Available

2008-06-23T11:27:00.000-07:00

PondWorld.com has added the Pond Keeper line of pond water treatments to its already lengthy list of reputable water treatment brands.

Dallas, TX (PRWEB) June 16, 2008 -- In its goal to offer the largest selection of the best pond supplies (http://www.pondworld.com) on the Internet, online retailer Pondworld.com has added Pond Keeper to its list of high quality, well respected brands now available on its website.

The Pond Keeper brand (from Natural Environmental Systems, LLC) is a line of natural and safe pond water treatments utilized by small and large ponds to help keep the water healthy and clear. Pond Keeper features an extensive line of pond bacteria additives in both liquid and dry forms, including Pond Keeper Pro, which is a high-count, economical pond bacteria additive for large ponds and lakes. Also included in the Pond Keeper line are water treatments such as a liquid flocculant for improved water clarity, all-in-one water conditioner for fish ponds, phosphate binder for both small and large ponds, barley straw extract, pond and lake dyes, rock and stone cleaner and even decorative polished pond stones in multiple colors.

Pond Keeper products are an excellent addition to Pondworld.com because of some of the uniquely formulated products they add such as dissolvable blocks of pond bacteria for accurate and easy dosing and their 2-in-1 barley straw extract formulation that combines both barley straw extract and beneficial pond bacteria into a single liquid formula.

The addition of different and unique products such as the Pond Keeper line is what separates Pondworld.com from other online pond supply stores and is fueling its growth.

For more information on Pond Keeper products, visit www.pondworld.com or call 866-897-2307.

About PondWorld.com: Pond World, LLC, through its website PondWorld.com, is a retailer of pond and lake supplies including water treatments, pumps, filters, maintenance supplies, kits, aerators, fountains and fish and plant supplies. PondWorld.com is focused on being a one-stop shop for all types of pond owners looking to build and maintain a clean and healthy pond or lake.

What Are The Best Pond Filters?

2008-05-15T10:28:00.000-07:00

Although a natural pond does not require the use of a pond filter a man made pond can only benefit from its use. Pond filters are designed to break down toxins within the water usually caused by decaying organic particles, if a pond filter is not used to remove this physical dirt your pond could be at risk of having poor pond water which could result in health problems for any fish living within the pond.

Depending on the size of your pond and how many fish you have will determine the type and size of the pond filter you need. Once installed the pond filter will keep both the water free from particles that can cause the water to be murky, smelly and even toxic, your fish and pond plants will also benefit from the pond filter as they will be healthier.

Pond filters not only optimise the viewing of your pond by cleaning the water for enhanced viewing of the fish, plants and inhabitants pond filters also conserve water by cleaning and recycling the ponds original water, When the water is pumped back into your pond it keeps the pond water which also helps to reduce the risk of the pond becoming stagnant. There are several different types of pond filters to choose from all of which will produce a noticeable difference to any garden pond.

External Filters: External pond filters are usually the largest type of pond filter available. They are situated outside of the pond but close to it. They are usually filled with large sheets of foam with porous or plastic stone biological media underneath.The biggest advantage of external pond filters is the improvement of the water quality it is also possible to add different filer media to serve other purposes should you have a specific problem with your pond. Having the pond filter outside of the pond makes the unit a lot easier to clean also the external pond filter supports the largest fish load. The only disadvantage is the size and visibility however it is quite easy to disguise the pond filter behind pond plants making it less visible.

Submersed Filters: These pond filters are extremely versatile and are filled with a mixture of filter media for different types of filtration including chemical, mechanical and biological filtration. The advantages of this type of pond filter is not only the cleanliness of the water but the pond filter can also be used for other purposes such as water fountains, pond spitters and many other water based pond feature.

The only disadvantage is this type of pond filter is submersed in the water which may mean that you will need to stand in the pond to retrieve it depending on where it is situated when you decide to clean it.

When purchasing pond filters you will find that pet shops are always happy to help you chooses the right filter to suit your pond, take the time to ask someone in the shop and explain what sort of pond you have it is also wise to have a rough idea of the size and how many fish reside with it to make sure the best pond filter is selected.

Written by Allen Jesson, who also writes for several sites including Seapets, a leading source for Pond Filters and hot dog training tips and training for dogs.

Garden Fountains

2008-05-09T15:05:00.000-07:00

If it's time to give a face lift to your patio or garden why not look to add a new fountain or other type of water feature. Nothing adds distinction to a garden like water. The sound of moving water has been sought after by landscape architects the world over. The serenity that moving water brings is unbelievable. It can be used to add a relaxing theme as well as to max distracting sounds.

Water features have always been an integral part of outdoor gardens for a long time. You just have to look as those magnificent palatial gardens of Europe or the beautifully intricate designs of the Japanese water gardens. No matter how much space you have to work with a garden fountain is an essential addition to any patio or garden.

Any outdoor fountain or other water feature is a great way to tie together all the elements of your outdoor living area. There are so many different choices for adding some kind of water. One of the most popular is the bird bath fountain. It is both stylish and functional - just ask all those birds. Another unique choice is a rain chain. Many have never heard of or seen a rain chain but it can be very attractive and a conversation piece as well. These ornamental pieces provide a path for water to the ground through a series of linked cups or chains. Very artistic, these are a great addition to a garden.

There are a lot of great ideas and types of features to consider - multi-tiered fountains, barrel fountains, cascading waterfalls - the list goes on and on. If you have walls on a patio or around a garden then certainly consider a wall fountain. They can be spectacular. By making the right choice your fountain will become the focal point of your garden area. Even with limited space such as a balcony of a condo or apartment there are water fountains that are perfect.

If your outdoor space is larger, than water features are the perfect way to highlight different areas of the garden. Since outdoor "rooms" have become so popular, having multiple water features allows you to design different moods and themes by matching different styles and varieties of fountains with each area. If you have enough space, you may want to think about a pond, pool or waterfall. While these can be dramatic, they can also be expensive and many times maintenance intensive.

Today there are so many choices in materials that are used in garden fountains. You can choose from stone, masonry, cast iron or copper. All are very durable and can withstand the elements. A newer material in use is a highly durable resin. It's one of my favorites because it is lighter weight than stone or masonry so it's easier to move around. It can be molded in a variety of intricate designs creating spectacular results at lower cost. Most fountains today come with easy installation needing only a power source and water. The solar fountains around today just need sunlight and a source of water and there are ready to go.

If you're looking to reduce stress (and who's not) then the soothing effects of moving water is just what you need. The addition of a garden fountain will add serenity and calmness to make your outdoor patio or garden a truly relaxing retreat to be enjoyed for years to come.

If it's time to give a face lift to your patio or garden why not look to add a new fountain or other type of water feature. Nothing adds distinction to a garden like water. The sound of moving water has been sought after by landscape architects the world over. The serenity that moving water brings is unbelievable. It can be used to add a relaxing theme as well as to max distracting sounds.Water features have always been an integral part of outdoor gardens for a long time....

Written by John Stoner, the owner of Patios and Things a website featuring decorating tips and ideas for the home, patio, deck and garden. Here you'll find more information on all kinds of garden fountains.

Seasong A New Pond

2008-05-05T19:10:00.000-07:00

You've dug the hole in your backyard. You've installed the liner, and all of the pipes and filters are in place. You've filled your new pond with water. But now what? Should you add plants or fish to the new pond? Well, before you do that, you'll need to season the pond. Similar to an indoor aquarium, certain nitrifying bacteria need to be in place to help promote the proper environment for plants and fish to grow and thrive.

These nitrifying bacteria do not exist in a new pond, and need to grow. Instead of simply adding plants and fish to a new pond, you'll need to give the pond time to develop these bacteria, but there are some steps that you can take to help the bacteria develop.

A new filter will keep your water clean, but they are sterile, containing no bacteria. You will need to get some of these nitrifying bacteria growing in your filter These bacteria do not grow if the water is too cold. So, in the spring, when the water starts to warm up, you can add enzymes to your pond to promote the growth of this bacteria. Do not do any backwashing for about a month, to allow the nitrifying bacteria a chance to grow in the filter. After a month, you can backwash as directed. And after the first month, it is important to backwash the filter since the pollutants that encourage the growth of good bacteria also encourage the growth of bad bacteria. If you have a UV filter, keep it turned off for the first month to give the bacteria a chance to build up.

The bacteria need some nutrients to grow. These nutrients can be found in organic waste. So, add a couple of koi or goldfish to your pond. The waste from the fish will give the bacteria what they need to grow. Just be sure not to overpopulate the pond. At this point, a couple of fish are all that is needed. You can add more later, after the bacteria is established. Remember that chlorine can kill the fish, so if your water is chlorinated, be sure to add some de-chlorinator to the water before you add the fish.

Given time, the nitrifying bacteria will build up in your pond, and will promote a healthy environment for the aquatic animals and plants that you choose to stock your pond with. If you follow these steps, and have a bit of patience, a healthy ecosystem will develop in your pond or water garden, giving you years of enjoyment.

Written by Lisa Sousa: Visit http://www.water-gardens-fountains.com for more tips and advice on building and maintaining a water garden, and for water garden supplies.

How To Choose Water Garden Plants

2008-03-21T09:57:00.000-07:00

So the water garden bug has bitten. You’ve dug and leveled and sweated and said words you hope that no one else has heard. Now it’s time for the fun part – picking out your water garden plants!

Plant varieties within these four categories are what you need to eyeball: deep-water, marginals, oxygenators, and floaters. (If you think these words are big words, just be happy we’re not talking about medicine.)

After you’ve diligently planted your new plants in plastic tubs, pans, or clay pots, packing the fertilizer- and chemical-free soil down tightly, load the container down with pea gravel to keep the soil from floating away. (Don’t ask why this works, but it does.) Plunk your plant into the water at the appropriate depth (You’ll read about that in just a minute) and you’re on ready to go!

Plant-dunking should be generally be done during the growing season. For new ponds, wait four or five weeks for the water plants to do their thing before you add your fish. If you just can’t hold your horses, or your fish, for that long, you can jump the gun a couple of weeks, but the idea is to let the plants first get established.

When picking your plants, you’ll no doubt be wowed by water lilies of the tropical persuasion. These aquatic wonders are popular compared to their hardier cousins with knock-out fragrance, big blooms day or night – depending on the variety – and a habit of blooming their little hearts out nearly every day during the growing season. They love their warmth, though, so unless you live in a year-round, warm-weather climate, be prepared to hasten them into a greenhouse or at least muster up some funds to buy them some “grow” lights to tough it out through the winter.

They will definitely bite the dust at freezing temperatures, but give them night-time temps of at least 65F and daytime temps of 75F or warmer, and your love affair with tropicals will only grow that much more torrid.

Hardy water lilies, while not the showboaters that tropicals are, are . . . well, hardier. Their big advantage is that they can stay in the water year ‘round unless it freezes so deeply the rootstock is affected. And being the tough guys they are, you can plant these puppies deeper than the tropicals, some living it up in depths of 8 to 10 feet.

Both hardy and tropical water lilies are real sun worshippers. At least 5 to 10 hours a day is what it takes, along with regular fertilization, to keep these plant pals happy.

Everybody and their brother with a water garden wants a lotus plant. (Sisters, too, no doubt.) These water-lily relatives come in hardy and not-so-hardy strains, so make sure you know what you’re buying. Much bigger than water lilies, lotus have huge, famously splendid blooms that not only will knock your socks off, but make you forget you have feet altogether. Their leaves and seed pods are so breathtaking, they’re a favorite in costly cut-flower arrangements. Big, bold, and beautiful, with water-depth needs of 2-3 feet, these shouters are really better off in big ponds that get plenty of sun.

Marginals (sometimes called “bog” plants by those less high-falutin’) are grass-like plants that strut their stuff in shallow areas no deeper than 6” that border the water garden. They also do well in mud. Cattail, bamboo, rush, papyrus, and many other plants fall into the family of marginals and grow best with a minimum of at least three hours of sun.

Some plants are there but not seen, working stoically under water and without fanfare to fight algae, oxygenate the water, and provide food for fish. (In lieu of these plants, if your pond is small, you can fake it fairly adequately with an aquarium pump.) Easy on the wallet, varieties of these plants can be bought in bunches and like their soil sandy and/or gravelly. Like hardy water lilies, they, too, will warrior it through the winter.

Water hyacinths have become a recent rage, especially for the lazy among us. No soil is required for these beauties. Toss them in the water and they’re “planted.” A water hyacinth ain’t just another pretty face, though; these plants do their part in the war against algae and blanket weeds by keeping sunlight scarce on the water’s surface. But one note of caution: This plant may take over the world if allowed. It’s invasive as all get out, so keep it under control or you (and your neighbors) may wish you’d never laid eyes on it.

A water garden isn't a garden without plants. Take your time, know your climate, and choose wisely. Your rewards will be great in return.

Written by: Brett Fogle, the owner of MacArthur Water Gardens and several pond-related websites including macarthurwatergardens.com and pond-filters-online.com. He also publishes a free monthly newsletter called PondStuff! with a reader circulation of over 9,000 pond owners. To sign up for the free newsletter and receive a complimentary 'New Pond Owners Guide' for joining, just visit MacArthur Water Gardens at www.macarthurwatergardens.com.

Small Pond Basics

2008-03-10T05:57:00.000-07:00

These pools are in easiest to install and range from fifty to six hundred gallons. They come in various sizes and shapes including rectangle, kidney, and square. Purchasing is a matter of convenience, since they can usually be found at local home and garden stores, including Lowe’s or Home Depot… even Wal-mart! Because of using much heavier PVC than a liner, their life expectancy can range from twenty-five to thirty years.

Another fiberglass product that can be used is an old hot tub. The jets can be plugged up, or can be used for filtration. The nice thing about a hot tub, is that it already has a bottom drain installed.

To install your preformed pond, you will need to measure around the tub with a garden hose the dig six inches beyond that point. Place sand in the bottom of the hole (about two inches deep), then place the tub on top of the sand. If you are using a black preformed, you can bury the entire pond, but with a hot tub, only part of it has to be in the ground. In fact, both of my hot tub ponds are buried to the big step with dirt and rocks around it as an elevated pond.

For a one hundred gallon preformed pond, you would need a fifty-gallon per hour pump with a small mechanical filter and small biological filter. These two filters can be connected to use the same pump.

Stocking of a one hundred gallon pond would consist of one water lily, six bog plants, and three bunches of submerged plants. Forty-eight inches of fish could find a wonderful home in this pond!

Pond Filters

2008-03-04T07:08:00.000-08:00

There are several ways to filter you pond, but my favorite is made out of a five gallon bucket.

It is a filter with a grate, poly fiber, and lava rocks. On the top of the buck you need to put water hyacinth, water celery, parrot's feather, or coon's tail.

For more information on these types of filters check out my friends, Robin & Steve's pond page! http://www.citlink.net/~missy/filter.htm

Preformed Waterfalls

2008-02-28T06:20:00.000-08:00

Yes, you can use preformed ponds in a row to make a water feature!

Between my barrel ponds to reduce the amount of water leakage, I used just a small amount of liner to go from one pond to another. Connect the liner on the inside of the barrel liner by using the same glue that you would use to connect PVC pipe.

By using a combination between PVC and Liners there are a gazillion pond, river, and other water features that you can come up with!

Let your imagination run!!!

How do I keep the soil in my container?

2008-02-26T07:35:00.000-08:00

There are actually several ways to do this...

The most common way is to use small rocks, pebbles, or gravel. Make sure there are two or three holes in the bottom of your pot then cover over the holes with a sheet of newspaper. Fill with soil with your plant and then place small rocks over the soil. Then wet the soil to give it some added weight and remove some of the air. Put your plant into the pond very slowly allowing more air to escape slowly. You will still have some soil that comes loose, but most will stay in the pot.

Oxygenators, such as anacharis, hornwart, cabomba, and parrots feather, do not need soil, you can just band them together and place them in the bottom of the pond, but they also do well in baskets with gravel carefully placed around the roots.

What To Do For The Winter

2008-02-23T11:59:00.000-08:00

Ponds during the winter might not be very exciting, but this is the time that you should be deciding where you want to go with the pond this next year. Now is time to search the internet for new water features and new plants that you might be interested in. The more planning that you do now, the more time you have to research!