Latest news with #Black-eyedSusans
Daily Record
02-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Record
Gardeners urged to plant these 5 flowers to stop weeds from taking over
An infestation of weeds in your garden is one downside to the warm weather - experts recommend planting these flowers to put them off your lawn There's nothing more frustrating than battling a weed invasion in your garden. Luckily, experts suggest planting certain flowers to deter them from your lawn. As summer approaches, you might be spotting an array of unsightly growths appearing on your lawn. The combination of warmer weather and sunlight allows invasive plants to proliferate rapidly. Common UK weeds include dandelion, chickweed and the dreaded prickly milk thistle, which can be notoriously difficult to eliminate. Weeds do more than just spoil the appearance of your lawn; they can cause significant damage to neighbouring plants. This is because they drain nutrients from the soil, leaving little for the plants in your garden. They can also harbour troublesome insects, such as aphids, caterpillars and mealybugs, reports the Mirror. But before reaching for weed killer, Homes and Gardens suggests turning to these plants instead. Not only are they visually stunning, these perennial plants bloom year after year, saving you effort. Black-eyed Susans These vibrant yellow flowers feature jet black stigmas that naturally attract attention – hence their name. These unique flowers will not only add interest to your garden, but also help ward off weeds. This is due to their tendency to grow in dense patches, leaving little space for unwanted plants to infiltrate. They're best planted in spring as they require at least six hours of sunlight daily. Coneflowers These charming dusky pink coneflowers hail from North America and boast remarkable resilience. Their robust nature makes them perfect for withstanding the often erratic British climate. Thriving in both full and partial sunlight, these flowers require watering just twice a week. Katie Sunderlage, operations manager at the Holland Group, told Home and Gardens: "Once settled into your yard, you will find coneflowers remarkably low-maintenance." Verbenas Proudly bearing purple blossoms throughout the summer season, Verbenas are not only beautiful but practical. They offer generous ground coverage, which helpfully thwarts weeds from flourishing. For optimal growth, plant your Verbenas where they can bask in full or partial sun, ensuring that the soil has good drainage. They're also quite drought-tolerant, so there's no need for concern during the occasional heatwave. Blazing star Living up to their fiery name with vibrant electric purple petals, Blazing stars make their striking appearance in late summer. They're excellent at keeping weeds at bay as they naturally grow in dense clusters, and fortunately, cultivating them is relatively straightforward – all they ask for is direct sunlight. Blue grama This grass which is native to the American Midwest excels at weed prevention. Best suited to warmer environs, Blue grama is an ideal choice for those residing in Southern England or along the coast. Once established, it demands very little in terms of watering. Annual weeds in the UK generally start growing in early spring, around April. This is because soil temperatures rise, causing the weeds to begin to grow. They generally bloom in the summer before fully dying in winter.
Daily Mirror
01-05-2025
- Climate
- Daily Mirror
Gardeners urged to plant 5 flowers that stop weeds from taking over
These are five gorgeous flowers that do well in British gardens and which will prevent unwanted weed growth - even better they will grow back year after year so you only have to plant them once There are few things more infuriating than dealing with an infestation of weeds in your garden. Fortunately, experts recommend planting these flowers to put them off your lawn. With summer around the corner, you're probably noticing all sorts of unsightly growth cropping up on your lawn. Warmer weather and sunlight means that invasive plants are able to reproduce like wildfire. Common UK weeds include dandelion, chickweed and the dreaded prickly milk thistle. The worst part is that they can be incredibly hard to get rid of. More than just ruin the look of your lawn, weeds are known to cause huge damage to surrounding plants. This is because they leech nutrients from the soil, leaving little for the plants growing in your garden. They can also harbour problem insects, like aphids, caterpillars and mealybugs. But before you turn to a weed killer, Homes and Gardens recommend turning to these plants instead. Not only do they look gorgeous, these perennial plants blossom year and after year, saving you the hard work. Black-eyed Susans These bright yellow flowers have jet black stigmas that automatically draw the eye – hence the name. These unusual flowers will not only add intrigue to your garden, but also help stave off weeds. This is because they tend to grow in thick patches, which leaves little room for unwanted plants to worm their way in. They're best planted in spring as they require at least six hours of sunlight a day. Coneflowers These dusky pink delights are native to North America and are incredibly hardy. This means they're well suited to survive Britain's unpredictable weather. They prefer full or partial sun and need to be water twice a week. Katie Sunderlage, operations manager at the Holland Group, told Home and Gardens: 'Once settled into your yard, you will find coneflowers remarkably low-maintenance.' Verbenas These tall plants will produce purple flowers all summer long. Even better, they provide a high amount of ground cover, preventing weeds from taking hold. They should be planted in full or partial sun and in well-draining soil. It's also drought tolerant, which means you don't have to worry about it surviving a heat wave. Blazing star With their electric purple petals, these flowers look just like their name. They typically bloom in late summer and are great weed blockers as they tend to grow in clusters. Even better, they're relatively easy to grow – all they need is direct sunlight. Blue grama Native to the American Midwest, this grass is brilliant at preventing weeds. Of course, since it prefers warmer temperatures, it's a better option for those living in the south or coastal areas of the UK. Once planted, it needs very little watering.
Time Business News
24-04-2025
- General
- Time Business News
Ultimate Guide to Inexpensive Landscaping Solutions
Landscaping your yard can be a rewarding way to enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. However, many homeowners face the challenge of creating a stunning landscape on a tight budget. Fortunately, with careful planning and some creative solutions, achieving a beautiful yard doesn't have to cost a fortune. This ultimate guide to inexpensive landscaping solutions will provide you with practical tips and ideas for transforming your outdoor space without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for inexpensive landscapers near me or reliable sod installation companies near me, this guide covers it all. 1. Understanding Your Budget and Setting Realistic Expectations The first step in any landscaping project, whether big or small, is to determine your budget. Understanding what you can afford will help you narrow down your options and set realistic expectations for the project. Start by listing the areas of your yard that you want to improve, such as: Lawn care (e.g., sod installation or lawn maintenance) Garden beds (e.g., flower or vegetable gardens) Hardscaping (e.g., patios, paths, or retaining walls) Water features (e.g., fountains or ponds) By defining your priorities, you can allocate your budget more effectively, ensuring that you invest your money where it will make the most impact. 2. Choose Native Plants for Cost-Effective Landscaping One of the easiest ways to create a low-maintenance, budget-friendly landscape is by incorporating native plants. Native plants are adapted to the local climate, soil, and pests, making them much easier to care for than non-native varieties. They also require less water, fertilizers, and pesticides, which helps reduce ongoing maintenance costs. For homeowners in areas like Texas, for example, you can opt for drought-tolerant species such as Bluebonnets, Black-eyed Susans, or Indian Paintbrush. These plants not only add color and texture to your landscape but also attract local wildlife, such as butterflies and bees. Native plants are also often more affordable to purchase since they're readily available at local nurseries. When planning your landscape design, consider grouping plants with similar water and sunlight needs together. This practice, known as plant grouping, helps reduce water waste and ensures that each plant thrives in its optimal environment. 3. DIY Landscaping Projects to Save Money A great way to cut costs is by taking on DIY landscaping projects. Many landscaping tasks don't require professional help and can be completed with some time, effort, and basic tools. Here are some simple DIY ideas for your yard: Mulching : Covering garden beds with mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. It's an affordable and easy project you can do yourself. : Covering garden beds with mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil health. It's an affordable and easy project you can do yourself. Planting Flowers and Shrubs : Planting flower beds and shrubs is an inexpensive way to add color and interest to your yard. You can even start plants from seeds to save on initial costs. : Planting flower beds and shrubs is an inexpensive way to add color and interest to your yard. You can even start plants from seeds to save on initial costs. Building a Raised Garden Bed : Raised garden beds are simple to construct using inexpensive materials like reclaimed wood or concrete blocks. They can be a great way to grow vegetables and flowers in small spaces. : Raised garden beds are simple to construct using inexpensive materials like reclaimed wood or concrete blocks. They can be a great way to grow vegetables and flowers in small spaces. Laying Gravel Paths: Creating a simple gravel path is an affordable alternative to installing a more expensive paved path. You can even add some decorative stepping stones or wood borders for extra style. 4. Inexpensive Sod Installation Options One of the best ways to quickly enhance the look of your yard is by installing sod. While sod installation can be a bit pricier than planting seeds, it provides an instant lush lawn. If you're on a tight budget, you may want to search for 'sod installation companies near me' that offer affordable pricing. Here are some tips to keep the cost of sod installation low: Install It Yourself : If you're handy and have the time, sod installation can be a DIY project. You can save money by purchasing sod from a local nursery or sod farm and laying it yourself. Just be sure to measure your lawn carefully to avoid ordering more sod than you need. : If you're handy and have the time, sod installation can be a DIY project. You can save money by purchasing sod from a local nursery or sod farm and laying it yourself. Just be sure to measure your lawn carefully to avoid ordering more sod than you need. Choose the Right Type of Sod : Some sod varieties, like Bermuda grass or Zoysia , are more affordable than others. By choosing the right grass variety for your region and climate, you can reduce both the initial cost of installation and the ongoing maintenance costs. : Some sod varieties, like or , are more affordable than others. By choosing the right grass variety for your region and climate, you can reduce both the initial cost of installation and the ongoing maintenance costs. Install Sod in Sections : If you have a large lawn, consider installing the sod in sections over time. This way, you can spread out the cost and still achieve the look of a lush, green lawn. : If you have a large lawn, consider installing the sod in sections over time. This way, you can spread out the cost and still achieve the look of a lush, green lawn. Prepare the Soil Properly: Preparing the soil before laying sod is essential for successful establishment. Proper soil preparation ensures the roots can take hold, reducing the chances of needing to replace sod later. If you prepare the soil yourself, you can save money on labor costs. 5. Look for Inexpensive Landscaping Services If you're not up for DIY landscaping, you can still achieve a beautiful yard by hiring inexpensive landscapers near me. When searching for affordable landscapers, it's essential to focus on getting value for your money. Here's how you can find cost-effective landscaping services: Get Multiple Quotes : When looking for a landscaper, get quotes from multiple companies to compare prices. Be sure to ask about their experience, references, and any potential hidden costs. Having several estimates will give you a better idea of the fair market price for your project. : When looking for a landscaper, get quotes from multiple companies to compare prices. Be sure to ask about their experience, references, and any potential hidden costs. Having several estimates will give you a better idea of the fair market price for your project. Choose Services Wisely : You don't have to hire a landscaper to take care of every detail. For example, you might opt to have a professional landscaper install your sod while handling smaller tasks, like planting flowers or mulching, on your own. : You don't have to hire a landscaper to take care of every detail. For example, you might opt to have a professional landscaper install your sod while handling smaller tasks, like planting flowers or mulching, on your own. Off-Season Deals : Many landscapers offer discounts during off-peak seasons, such as winter or early spring. If you can wait for the right time, you may be able to score significant savings on landscaping services. : Many landscapers offer discounts during off-peak seasons, such as winter or early spring. If you can wait for the right time, you may be able to score significant savings on landscaping services. Negotiate: Don't be afraid to negotiate with landscaping companies. If they provide a quote that's higher than expected, ask if there are ways to reduce the price. For example, you might be able to lower costs by opting for fewer materials or a simpler design. 6. Hardscaping on a Budget Hardscaping elements like patios, walkways, and retaining walls can add elegance and functionality to your yard. However, hardscaping can be one of the most expensive aspects of landscaping. Fortunately, there are ways to keep hardscaping costs in check: Use Recycled or Reclaimed Materials : Instead of purchasing brand-new pavers or bricks, consider using recycled or reclaimed materials. You can often find affordable stone, bricks, and tiles from demolition projects or second-hand building material stores. These materials can add character and charm to your landscape while keeping costs low. : Instead of purchasing brand-new pavers or bricks, consider using recycled or reclaimed materials. You can often find affordable stone, bricks, and tiles from demolition projects or second-hand building material stores. These materials can add character and charm to your landscape while keeping costs low. DIY Hardscaping Projects : Many hardscaping tasks, like laying gravel or installing simple stone pathways, can be completed on your own. If you're willing to put in the time and effort, DIY hardscaping can significantly reduce the cost of your project. : Many hardscaping tasks, like laying gravel or installing simple stone pathways, can be completed on your own. If you're willing to put in the time and effort, DIY hardscaping can significantly reduce the cost of your project. Focus on Small Features: Instead of installing large-scale hardscaping features like an elaborate outdoor kitchen or pool, focus on smaller, more affordable projects such as simple seating areas, fire pits, or garden paths. 7. Maintaining Your Landscape for Longevity To keep your landscaping looking great for years to come, it's essential to maintain it regularly. While proper maintenance helps keep your landscape healthy and beautiful, it can also save you money in the long run by preventing the need for costly repairs or replacements. Here are some low-cost maintenance tips: Regular Watering : Water your plants and lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water loss through evaporation. Watering deeply but infrequently will encourage your plants to grow stronger and more drought-resistant. : Water your plants and lawn early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce water loss through evaporation. Watering deeply but infrequently will encourage your plants to grow stronger and more drought-resistant. Pruning and Deadheading : Keep your plants looking fresh by regularly pruning dead or damaged stems and deadheading spent flowers. This will encourage new growth and improve the overall appearance of your yard. : Keep your plants looking fresh by regularly pruning dead or damaged stems and deadheading spent flowers. This will encourage new growth and improve the overall appearance of your yard. Weeding : Weeding your garden beds regularly will prevent weeds from taking over and stealing nutrients from your plants. Consider using organic mulch to suppress weed growth naturally. : Weeding your garden beds regularly will prevent weeds from taking over and stealing nutrients from your plants. Consider using organic mulch to suppress weed growth naturally. Aerating the Lawn: Aerating your lawn once a year helps improve soil health and ensures that water and nutrients can reach the roots. Aeration is a relatively inexpensive process and can be done with a manual aerator or rented equipment. Conclusion Achieving a beautiful landscape doesn't have to be expensive. By choosing native plants, incorporating DIY projects, and being strategic about where you spend your money, you can create a stunning outdoor space on a budget. Whether you're looking for inexpensive landscapers near me or affordable sod installation companies near me, there are plenty of ways to enhance your yard without breaking the bank. With careful planning, creativity, and some effort, your dream landscape is within reach. So, roll up your sleeves, and start transforming your yard today! TIME BUSINESS NEWS
