for high traffic area, how should I start to bring a bak yard back to life?
Answers:
I have two dogs and had a huge husky who loved to either lift his leg on plants or scruff up the grass. I created a secret garden using wrought iron trellises. It is my dog free envioronment complete with a courtyard fountain, flowering bushes and a little table and chair set.
I planted St Augistine grass because it heals itself from the dogs scruffing and peeing. I also used little wrought iron fencing that I bought at the salvage yard and the Big Lots to put around gardens and beds that I didn't want the dogs to get in.
I divided up the yard into outdoor rooms connected with pathways made of stone, but you can use degenerated gravel, mulch, or beach pebbles. (Tried those first, however, the dogs didn't see the value of having a specified path and they were all over the yard in short order.) One outside room has a inexpensive all weather wicker couch and chair set, one is for sunning and contains two chaise loungers and one is for eating and has the BBQ grill, dining set, bakers rack and prep island.
Although we're on almost an acre, the useable portion of our yard is quite small, so I had to be space efficient to meet both the needs of the fur children and to be able to entertain and enjoy the yard. Most of the plants I put in are dog friendly and blooming (oleander, sweet pea bushes, rose of sharon, butterfly bushes, orchids, geraniums, bottlebrush), but I do grow veggies and herbs in containers. Most of the outdoor furniture I have back there came from salvage or thrift stores because it stays outside (except the cushions) year round. Hope you have some ideas of what you can do.
Other answers:
My primary focus is in home repair/remodeling. I have 25 plus years experience in various trades and applications, as a self employed, but non licensed contractor. I also have 40 plus years in theatrical involvement, as well as various other skills, knowledge, and experience.
House painting, flooring, minor elect. and plumbing, drywall, Decking, etc. etc.
Beyond that I'll look for work in the trades also.
I'm also seeking decent housing.
I have decent references, even local to GR.
Consider e mailing me if you have home related needs that need tending to. Any quality answers will be responded to. Thank you.
Rev. Steven
My primary focus is in home repair/remodeling. I have 25 plus years experience in various trades and applications, as a self employed, but non licensed contractor. I also have 40 plus years in theatrical involvement, as well as various other skills, knowledge, and experience.
House painting, flooring, minor elect. and plumbing, drywall, Decking, etc. etc.
Beyond that I'll look for work in the trades also.
I'm also seeking decent housing.
I have decent references, even local to GR.
Consider e mailing me if you have home related needs that need tending to. Any quality answers will be responded to. Thank you.
Rev. Steven
Well my parents have done this plenty of times before when I was growing up. (Looking back I think we had the absolute worst luck with yards!!) I remember clear as day what they did b/c they would always make us kids help out lol! Obviously start with a clean yard. No trash or junk...get rid of it all! :o) Then mow the the yard down real low. Be sure to get all the knooks and crannies. Go around afterward by hand taking out weeds by hand. It might take awhile but it saves a bundle on pesticides which is safer and it's a great stress releiver too. Afterward plant a ton of grass seed. I remember my dad use to be really picky about that, but he always ended up with a nice thick beautiful yard. Stay off the seed until you see it's safe to walk on. When mowing thereafter leave the cut grass on the yard so it re-roots itself or rake it up and stomp it into the ground around the bases of trees, fences, sidewalks, etc...Here's a trick that a lot of people have trouble with. Ant problems? Vinegar and water spray. Spray the little critters and they die almost instantly. Spray the nest too. Slug/snail problems? Sprinkle salt on them. Wait about 2 minutes and cleap up the yuckie mess. Good luck!
good im glad your doing something! from your other questions and answers it sounds like u need to get a life! this is a good start!