A neighbour perpetually ran a pump in an effort to preserve his garden from the ocean’s onslaught.

“That can’t possibly work,” says Marcyn Ward, of Down to Earth Landscapes. “Yet it’s the way most people think. They think that they’re able to pump and put things in pipes and defeat the power of the ocean.”

For the last 30 years, the company has worked with the architectural design of private gardens. When they were called to rid the tidal waters from the island home’s yard, they responded with a series of swales and berms, contouring the land to control the flow of ground and surface water.

Rather than ridding the yard of water, the company’s workers modified the yard to include a stream that carried surface water past decorative stones.

“There’s a much broader way of looking at landscape and looking for miles around you

and seeing how you sit in the landscape, how you sit in terms of elevation,” explains Ward. “We allow water to move as it naturally does through the sub-grade and we build the land on top of that high-water mark.”

Some garden problems may be related to irrigation, according to Ward.

“Some very experienced landscape architects are actually quite challenged with controlling site water. Often you’ll see many, many very expensive gardens that are soggy on the surface.”

If water sits on top of a lawn, many gardeners make the mistake of aerating and adding sand to dry the surface. They usually achieve the opposite effect, says Ward.

“They’ve built little holes full of sand, and water always moves to the area of least resistance.”

Specializing in high-end residential landscape design and maintenance, the North Vancouver company places an emphasis on examining each site in the context of its geography.

“You can’t fight your site conditions,” says Ward. “You either have to change them or work with them, and working with them is much smarter.”

Consulting an expert before any major work can save backyard gardeners from shoddy lawns, rotten roots and heartache, according to Ward.

“We rip out gardens all the time done by people who didn’t carefully consider what’s happening underground and with the environment around them.”

Other considerations, such as the shade cast by your own home and nearby trees and architecture, should also be considered in terms of the plants you’d like to grow, according to Ward.

Most shade plants will survive in filtered light but not full sun,she says.

While many landscapers can be skilled at manicuring trees and lawns, they often fail to consider what’s happening below the surface, according to Ward.

“Generally, about 80 per cent of the work we do is below ground,” she says.

“The actual planting, lawn, and irrigation system, etcetera, is just the icing on the cake. Many companies just focus on the icing on the cake, but really good quality landscape starts

from way down.”

While some landscaping problems necessitate clever solutions, sandy, indigenous soils are “the easiest thing in the world,” to work with, according to Ward.

“Organics and the fine particulate matter in organic soils will always migrate, with rain and time, down through sand,” she says.

Boulder landscape designer Bill Melvin to host Earth Day workshop in Broomfield, CO.

Take the time to look at the drought and watering restrictions as an opportunity or catalyst for change.

Boulder, CO (PRWEB) April 20, 2013

Ecoscape Environmental Design, a landscaping company from Boulder, CO, will host an educational workshop on xeriscaping on Sunday, April 21st in Broomfield in celebration of Earth Day.

The workshop, which will take place at 3pm this Sunday at 16151 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield, CO, is intended to educate audiences of varying skill sets on the topics of xeriscape gardens, edible gardens, and even fruits and vegetables.

“We’ve designed the workshop material for homeowners looking to transform their lawn to xeriscape gardens, install a vegetable garden, or incorporate fruits, berries, and herbs into their landscapes,” Ecoscape Environmental Design owner and Boulder landscape designer Bill Melvin said. “We will also cover more advanced material for the avid gardener looking for new species to integrate into their land, the curious gardener wanting to know what type of fruits can grow well in this climate, and even the beginning gardener who will find fascination in colorful photos of what is possible in our semi-arid environment.”

Workshop: Xeriscaping in our Arid West

Date: Sun. April 21, 2013

Location: 16151 Lowell Blvd, Broomfield, CO 80023

Time: 3-4pm

For more info, contact Ecoscape at 303.447.2282

For Melvin, Earth Day is something he has celebrated since he was just a kid.

“Ever since I was a kid I thought it was so wonderful to have one day out of the year where people actually pay tribute to this cosmic ecosystem we call home,” he said. “For many, thankfully, Earth Day is acknowledged every day of the year, but April 22 is a great opportunity to bring community together for conscious recognition of how vital the livings systems all around us are.”

With recent changes to water laws in Boulder County that will now allow residents to use roof water catchment of rain water and snow melt, Melvin will show people how to lower their water bills in his presentation of “Xeriscaping in our Arid West.”

“Take the time to look at the drought and watering restrictions as an opportunity or catalyst for change. There are so many little ways you can proactively save water. It is a wonderful time to tear up that lawn you are tired of caring for and watering excessively,” Melvin said. “In a semi-arid desert, isn’t it just silly that engineers design developed land to shed water into the sewer? Why not capture it and use it?”

Gray water can now be utilized for flushing of toilets and sub surface drip irrigation, Melvin said. These changes are not very feasible for many as the city requires separately plumbed lines for the gray water making the investment cost prohibitive to most.

“In the not too distant future, I believe we will see big changes to Colorado water laws,” Melvin said. “It was after all not too long ago that the mayor of Denver was advising people to catch their shower water for use in their landscapes.”

Call the Ecoscape Environmental Design office at 303.447.2282 to learn more about the Earth Day Workshops. Learn more about Ecoscape’s landscaping design and maintenance services at http://www.ecoscapedesign.com

PDF


Print

It’s been a long, long winter. But warmer weather will arrive eventually and then things will start to pop — maybe even bloom. Garden shops are eager to roll out the floral carpet for the growing season. Use this guide of garden centers’ descriptions and locations to get started. Please note that season openings and hours vary and change. Check websites or call for the most up-to-date information.

Abrahamson Nurseries. All three garden centers — in Stillwater, Scandia and St. Croix Falls — offer plenty of things in bloom as well as gardening supplies and accessories. Be sure to check out the garden-themed gifts while there. Delivery and landscape services are available at each site. (2100 Tower Drive, Stillwater; 651-433-2140;

20021 St. Croix Trail N., Scandia; 651-433-2431; 1257 State Road 35, St. Croix Falls, Wis.; 715-483-3040; abrahamsonnurseries.com)

Bergmann’s Greenhouses and Farm Market. A destination in the St. Croix River Valley for scoring lush bedding plants and overflowing floral hanging baskets for gifts. (12239 62nd St. N., Stillwater; 651-439-9577)

Country Sun Farm in Stillwater. In 35 years, this family-owned institution has blossomed into greenhouses and a retail garden center where visitors can stock up on a colorful variety of flowers and plants. (11211 N. 60th St., Lake Elmo; 651-439-4156; countrysunfarm.net)

Camrose Hill Shop. From elegant roses to colorful wildflowers, floral designer Cindie Sinclair’s love affair with nature and country living come across in her garden-fresh-style bouquets. Former farm fields have been turned into sprawling gardens for a place to take a stroll and smell the roses. Events also are offered on the property. (233 S. Second St., Stillwater; 651-351-9631; camrosehillflowers.com)

Dege Garden Center. For more than 100 years, fans have

come from all over for Dege’s large selection of flower and vegetable seeds. During the season, George Dege, or “Mr. Lawn,” passes along his extensive gardening knowledge Saturday mornings on a national call-in talk show on 1220 AM Radio. (831 N. Century Ave., St. Paul; 651-739-5296; degegardencenter.com)

Fleur de Lis. This quaint florist shop on Cathedral Hill has something to suit a variety of styles. Potted plants and floral arrangements come in themes ranging from tropical to country living. The gift shop with pottery and jewelry from local artists also stands out. (516 Selby Ave., St. Paul; 651-292-9562; fleurfresh.com)

Funkie Gardens. Nursery near William O’Brien State Park is a place to enjoy nature’s bounty while stocking up on the center’s unique offerings, such as Martagon lilies and lady’s slipper orchids. More than 300 perennials and 400 hosta varieties offered. (19713 Quinnell Ave., Marine on St. Croix; 651-433-4599; funkiegardens.com)

Garden Safari Gifts. Among the unique offerings at the Como Zoo and Marjorie McNeely Conservatory at Como Park’s gift shop are bonsais and bonsai supplies. Garden-themed gifts, such as outdoor nightlights and nature-inspired jewelry, also are part of the stockpile. (1225 Estabrook Drive, St. Paul; 651-487-8222; comozooconservatory.org)

Gray Gardens. Visitors come to this garden and landscape center on Victorian grounds for decorating ideas both indoors and out. The home store features shrubs and flowers as well as an elaborate selection of garden gifts and accessories, plus gazebos, fountains and statuary. (366 Water St., Excelsior; 952-474-9150; graygardens.net)

Hermes Floral Greenhouses. For three generations, this family-run institution has grown flowers and plants to sell at its floral, garden and gift shop. Bouquets range from classic to contemporary, simple to lavish. (1639 W. Larpenteur Ave., St. Paul; 651-646-7135; hermesfloral.com)

Highland Nursery. More than 60 years

since opening in Highland Village, this St. Paul family-owned nursery now on West Seventh Street has blossomed into a lush selection of herbs, heirloom vegetables and unique plants. Statuary and other garden accents also are available. While strolling the grounds, be sure to check out the elaborate Bur Oak tree sculpture paying a tribute to John Smith and Elizabeth Ryan Smith, who homesteaded the site in 1850. (1742 W. Seventh St., St. Paul; 651-698-1708; thehighlandnursery.com)

Humble Acres. Owner Diane Reszka grows on three acres of western Wisconsin countryside, and her store emphasizes unique perennials friendly to Midwest climates as can be seen in the more than 400 varieties, including native species, rain garden plants and butterfly flowers. (433 East Cove Road, Hudson, Wis.; 612-290-5004; humbleacres.com)

Leitner’s. Deck out your patio and garden with finds from this St. Paul institution, especially known for its custom potting plants and more than 100 varieties of herbs. The center recently expanded its Asian and heirloom vegetables. Fruiting plants and original garden art also are available. (945 Randolph Ave., St. Paul; 651-291-2655; leitnersstpaul.com)

Lilydale Garden Center. This garden design and installation spot is a favorite stop for garden-style arrangements. Fans also like it for the wide variety of flowering shrubs and tropical houseplants as well as fruiting and ornamental shade trees. The gift shop includes botanical and garden accessories, ranging from soaps to wind chimes. Purchases come with complimentary gift-wrapping. (941 Sibley Memorial Highway, St. Paul; 651-457-6040; lilydalegardencenter.com)

Mother Earth Gardens. Organic, sustainable and local are key philosophies at this independently owned spot where a variety of seeds, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials and native trees can be found. The gift store offers a selection of eco-friendly, local and handmade gifts plus garden decor. Besides the Longfellow spot, Mother Earth Gardens plans to open a second site in Northeast Minneapolis (2318 N.E. Lowry Ave.) by month’s end. (3738 42nd Ave. S., Mpls.; 612-724-2296; motherearthgarden.com)

My Sister’s Garden. This western Wisconsin spot features a wide variety of annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables, plants and gift items. Especially known for its perennials and design, it also offers gardening workshops and floral and landscaping services. (850 Kelly Road off Highway 12, Hudson, Wis..; 715-386-4111; mysistersgarden.com)

Petunia’s. Flying pig statues are part of the shop’s eclectic assortment of vintage and contemporary home and garden accessories. Upholstered furniture, throw pillows, French country decor, garden statuary, Chinese lanterns and benches are part of the mix. (421 Third St., Excelsior; 952-474-0461; petuniasonthird.com)

Savory’s Gardens. For about 70 years, Savory’s has flourished, growing into a mail-order business specializing in hostas. On-site sales are offered during the growing season. Besides hostas, look for other perennials at the garden store. More than three dozen new flower varieties will be offered in 2013. The store opens May 1 and the display garden on June 1. (5300 Whiting Ave., Edina; 952-941-8755; savorysgardens.com)

Sam Kedem Nursery. Smell the roses as well as ornamental shrubs, fruit and shade trees at this nursery that emphasizes certified organic, locally grown fruits and vegetables. The spot is popular for its pick- your-own fruit offerings and a garden-themed gift shop featuring flower baskets, homemade jam and more. (12414 191st St. E., Hastings; 651-437-7516; kedemroses.com)

Squire House Gardens. A nursery and display garden are located in a charming renovated 1875 home along the St. Croix River Valley. Among the garden center’s specialties are offering perennials and woody plants tough enough to survive extreme Midwest climates. Annuals, herbs, trees and shrubs are available. The gift shop, with every-thing from jewelry to skin-care products and home decor to garden tools, is a must-see. Landscape design services are available. (3390 St. Croix Trail S., Afton; 651-436-8080; squirehousegardens.com)

Tangletown Gardens. This eclectic spot is a place for gardeners and others alike. Growers will have plenty to choose from, including a large assortment of heirloom vegetables, aquatic plants and more than 3,000 perennial varieties. The shop carries gardening tools, outdoor accessories, artisan jewelry and gifts. During the growing season, regulars also come for the daily farmers’ market and to buy CSA shares from Tangletown’s own farm. If that weren’t enough, Tangletown also offers landscape services. (5353 Nicollet Ave. S., Mpls.; 612-822-4769; tangletowngardens.com)

Terrace Horticultural Books. Green-thumb enthusiast Kent Petterson collects one of the largest stocks of books on planting and gardening for others to thumb through. Rare books, seed and plant catalogs and periodicals have made even Martha Stewart a fan. Be sure to check out the display gardens and try to time your visit during one of the “tea at the terrace” receptions held several times a day. (503 St. Clair Ave., St. Paul; 651-222-5536)

Twiggs Home Garden. This Linden Hills shop is a destination for both landscapers and home interior designers looking for inspiration and decorating ideas both indoors and out. Along with flowers and plants, the shop offers a mix of classic and contemporary garden gadgets and furniture. Home accessories, botanicals, jewelry and other gift items are sourced locally and from around the world. The neighborhood spot also hosts workshops. (4301 Uptown Ave. S.; Mpls.; 612-823-8944; shoptwiggs.com)

Twin City Nursery. Just look for the trademark concrete polar bear statues stationed outside — yes, they’re for sale — and you’re there. The beloved family-owned nursery in White Bear Lake also features a large variety of seeds, annuals, evergreen perennials, ornamental shrubs, pines, firs and spruces. (4941 Long Ave., White Bear Lake; 651-429-0144; twincitynursery.com)

Two Oaks. The retail arm of Prairie Restorations landscape and design features native plants that include grasses, trees and shrubs, not to mention flowers and seed mixes. Nature-related gift items, such as books and pottery from local artists, are offered. Prairie Restorations plans to expand its Native Plant Center in Princeton to include a larger retail area. (Hawkinson Business Park, 21120 Ozark Court N., Scandia, 651-433-1437; and 31646 128th St., Princeton, 763-389-4342; prairieresto.com)

Whispering Gardens. What started as a small greenhouse has grown to include a full-service garden featuring perennials, annuals, trees and shrubs from this family-owned operation. Hanging baskets, unique hostas and tomato varieties are top sellers. The gift store is a one-stop shop for everything from garden art to cabin gifts and jewelry to botanicals. While there, be sure to check out the 1.5-acre landscaped perennial garden popular for special events. (11180 70th St. S., Cottage Grove; 651-459-8080 whisperinggardens.com)

LARGER GARDEN SUPPLY CENTERS

Bachman’s Floral, Home Garden centers: The 128-year-old local, family-owned enterprise is famous for those purple trucks and for boasting some of the largest garden centers around. The centers offer everything: annuals, perennials, garden accessories, patio furniture, gift items and more.

Those looking at landscaping also might like the Lyndale location’s new Hardscape Center, which includes a large selection of pavers, mulches and boulders.

Bachman’s Lyndale (flagship location), 6010 Lyndale Ave. S., Mpls.; 612-861-7600

Maplewood, 2600 White Bear Ave.; 651-770-0531

Apple Valley, 7955 W. 150th St.; 952-431-2242

Plymouth, 10050 Sixth Ave. N.; 763-541-1188

Eden Prairie, 770 Prairie Center Drive; 952-941-7700

Fridley, 8200 University Ave. N.E.; 763-786-8200

Gertens: With the motto “Buy from the grower,” this third-generation family-owned establishment has grown into a sprawling business. The supermarket-size garden center is known for its large selection of roses, not to mention other annuals and perennials. A “grill zone,” gift shop, water garden and outdoor living space are among themed areas that take up more than 40,000 square feet of retail space. A huge landscape supply yard and year-round seminars and clinics also attract visitors. (5500 Blaine Ave., Inver Grove Heights; 651-450-1501; gertens.com)

Linder’s Garden Center: For three generations, families have come from all over to this popular shopping stop for all things in bloom. The third-generation, family-owned St. Paul spot — with main store, greenhouses and outdoor display gardens — carries bedding plants, perennials, annuals, shrubs, gardening supplies and more. Landscape services and seminars are available. (270 W. Larpenteur Ave., St. Paul; 651-488-1927; linders.com)

Nancy Ngo can be reached at 651-228-5172. Follow her at twitter.com/nancyngotc and pinterest.com/nancyngotc.