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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2009-05-07, Page 25THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, MAY 7, 2009. PAGE 25. Gardening enthusiasts often toil for hours on end to achieve their masterpiece landscape. Whether they hire out for some professional help or handle all of the work themselves, the end desire is a place that can be a sanctuary and welcome retreat. Though it’s hard to improve upon the beauty of Mother Nature, a few finishing touches to the yard can increase the enjoyment factor so much more. Well placed decor items and furniture are a growing trend in outdoor living. WATER FEATURES The great outdoors seems to be enhanced by the delicate sound of water. Water features can include bird baths, whimsical water fountains, or elaborate waterfalls cascading into a pond. A fountain can be as simple as two water buckets and a pump that transfers water between them. Just remember if you are using a feature that has standing water, such as a birdbath, routinely change the water to prevent a breeding ground for mosquito and other larvae. OUTDOOR FURNITURE Gone are the days of the generic patio set and uncomfortable wire chairs. Today’s homeowners want their yards to reflect their personal style and be an extension of inside living spaces. It’s common to find outdoor “rooms” complete with comfortable and attractive outdoor furniture. From chaise lounges to sofas to love seats, these pieces are crafted from wood, metal or rattan and outfitted with weather-resistant fabric on the cushions. Coffee tables and decorative accents complete the picture. DECORATIVE PLANTERS Great gardeners know that a mix of plants and styles can bring variety to a landscape. Plants grown in beds interspersed with movable container plants allow a person to change the look of the yard on a whim. Ornate and decorous planters are part of creating drama in the yard. Skip the plastic, generic planters and look for stone, terra-cotta, ceramic, or even faux materials that look like the real thing. Here’s an interesting idea: Create a bench with planters and a piece of wood. Cut circles in the wood that are slightly smaller than the circumference of the planters. Place the planters on either end directly below the holes and allow the shrubbery or other plants to grow through. Leave the centre for a seating area. Among the more frustrating things lawn enthusiasts must face are the host of critters that can make even the most lush lawns and green gardens look like a minefield in a relatively short period of time. With each critter comes different damage, and different ways of solving the problem and protecting your lawn. SQUIRRELS Squirrels are some of the more common animals homeowners must deal with. While they tend to nest in trees, some squirrels might actually be living in or on the roof of a home. Regardless of where they have established residency, squirrels can be harmful to lawns and gardens. When squirrels gather food, it's not uncommon for them to bury excess food by digging holes in the yard. Squirrels can also damageflowerbeds and strip bark from trees. Sound repellents have proven capable of handling squirrel problems, and such a solution boasts the added benefit of deterring other critters like rabbits and foxes. Scent repellents are also available, while more serious squirrel problems might require the help of a professional pest control agency. MOLES When moles are present around the property, the signs are often obvious in addition to being an eyesore. Moles make molehills, which are not only unsightly but can also weaken the strength and texture of the lawn. The good news about mole infestations is the variety of treatments available to homeowners looking to solve the problem. Sonic repellents and substances that attempt to repel moles with smell are just two of the avenues available to homeowners looking to rid their lawns of pesky moles. FOXES While foxes might not be as widespread a problem as squirrels or moles, that doesn't mean they can't do significant damage when they do appear. Gardens typically pay the steepest price when foxes appear, as the foxes tend to dig up gardens to hide their food. Perhaps the most effective repellent for foxes is a fox-proof fence around the garden. Alternatives to fences include sonic repellents and water sprays. RABBITSLike squirrels, rabbits are common critters around lawns and gardens. Rabbits can be especially problematic thanks to their nature, as they live in packs, meaning homeowners will have to deal with more than just one of them. Rabbits can destroy grass, tree bark, plants, and gardens, particularly vegetable gardens. Sonic repellents can be used, but a fence might be enough of a deterrent. If the problem persists, consult a professional. RABBITS Like squirrels, rabbits are common critters around lawns and gardens. Rabbits can be especially problematic thanks to their nature, as they live in packs, meaning homeowners will have to deal with more than just one of them. Rabbits can destroy grass, tree bark, plants,and gardens, particularly vegetable gardens. Sonic repellents can be used, but a fence might be enough of a deterrent. If the problem persists, consult a professional. Common critters can cause problems for homeowners Ideas to add finishing touch SEAFORTH 1¼Mile North of Seaforth 519-527-0120 EXETER 615 Main St. 519-235-2121 star ting at $1999 .00 Brussels 519-887-9616 Windows Doors Decks Additions Roofing Gerald Exel Carpentry Renovations & New Construction AR renovating Albert Roetcisoender 282 Albert St., Brussels, Ont. Ph. 519-887-9752 MAITLAND MANOR NURSERY 42291 Amberley Road RR 1 Bluevale On Hwy. 86 just east of Bluevale Phone: 519-335-3240 Ron & Jacqueline Knop Here comes trouble Cute and cuddly they may be, but rabbits can cause problems in a garden. (MS photo) STAIRS & RAILINGS INTERIOR TRIM KITCHEN CABINETS 519-357-3889