![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IZtgwprugCTW6rZfud7Qw5dmJ2qoRXmqzN2xAmCUBS8XmBegxcU4sqHmdh7wvr437JxtdLLoqGjtLrWGp4_rbPHdII_qjLYnXuLQjnmB_8I7ZW3fkpV2anv8HpUFo9Uzm_m7TT_R1EVzVTfdrw\")
Austin, Texas is definitely one of those cities that sticks with you no matter the length of time you spend there. From the eclectic collection of shops, amazing food down every main street and back ally, or the legendary Texas hospitality and charm, Austin really lives up to the hype of its tongue in cheek […]
\n","content":"\nAustin, Texas is definitely one of those cities that sticks with you no matter the length of time you spend there. From the eclectic collection of shops, amazing food down every main street and back ally, or the legendary Texas hospitality and charm, Austin really lives up to the hype of its tongue in cheek motto ‘Keep Austin Weird’ in more ways than are obvious to the casual observer. Being a center for creative design and out of the box thinking, Austinites have embraced the idea of getting innovative when it comes to the way they view landscaping and water management. One of these ways is with the healthy use of Rain Gardens. Although the use of rain gardens, bioswales, and other forms of using the landscape to manage rainwater have gained in popularity in the past years, it is good to know the basic fundamentals of what makes for a successful rain garden that can withstand the extremes of the Central Texas climate.
A Solid Foundation. Let’s start by defining what exactly is a rain garden. There are lots of terms and descriptors used to categorize these very similar landscape applications, but they all differ from each other in one way or another. A rain garden is perhaps the simplest of them all. A rain garden is purely an area of planting that you install in a low spot in your landscape. Rain gardens should be designed to hold water for only a brief period of time after a storm, with water quickly infiltrating back into the ground.
\n\n\n\nUnlike a pond or wetland, rain gardens should not generally be more than a foot deep at any given point and should not use any sort of liner. The actual depth and size of your rain garden will vary depending upon how much rainfall you need to collect from your roof or other impervious surfaces.
\n\n\n\nBelow are examples of a rain garden in a dry state versus a wet state.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/_MSsZiTdiwZFgSLW5TcZA8NOJgtdX0HB7Y-xxrKmVxgUIx8PUk5_DBG3dOT6DPtDc3ml6HjVqiooQ65lOUtP4OjHj85P3HKmAPDAHT9CWS-eZPY3MKHvV-JjYwTifhsfWEfePS40DRs8GNGJ8Q\")
Small plantings packing a BIG punch. The benefits of rain gardens are multifold. Firstly, they help prevent pollution from runoff water. The water that falls off our roofs, down the street, or across a parking lot isn’t pure rainwater; it collects pollutants as it flows, especially excess nitrogen and phosphorus from lawn fertilizers. These pollutants can harm rivers and ponds by causing algae blooms and fish kill. The deep roots of native plants readily absorb these nutrients, protecting groundwater quality. During heavy to moderate rain events, this storm surge can cause damaging erosion, sediment buildup, and bring a number of other harms to freshwater ecosystems, negatively impacting freshwater mussels and other aquatic life.
\n\n\n\nRain gardens can also play a part to protect Austin properties from floods. A mature stand of rain garden plants will take up excess water that might normally puddle in your yard, leading to water damage issues in your home. When you get rid of standing water, you also reduce mosquito breeding problems around your home.
\n\n\n\nRain gardens create habitats for wildlife. The traditional Austin front yard is turf grass, a monoculture that does little to nurture wildlife, but a mixed planting of native Texas flowers and grasses will draw butterflies, bees, beneficial insects, and birds. Rain gardens also help conserve water. Once established the native plants that thrive in the rain garden won’t need supplemental irrigation, as they are deep-rooted and have evolved to survive periods of drought between rains.
\n\n\n\nGetting s
If you’re planning to divert your roof gutters into your rain garden, you won’t want to install the feature too far away from your home, but you must place it at least ten feet away from your home. Underground utilities and tree roots may also influence the placement of the rain garden.
\n\n\n\nBe sure to check for these two things before you begin to dig.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/2Esyi2eVKRoMKak2UnqoBo4JPdg5DkL4jJUDn8ivE8u9SaQkRaCMvZceYQm97QzCHvIKNEpkUXrPgEUx61iuKp4jt6i6Lkmf3basdfESz35HM-fhBzwH4IlS1mn7ys2BHpWVGxYxsh3ArH6npg\")
Choosing the Right Plants. In order to properly design a rain garden, only use perennial plants. This is because a rain garden functions as a water remediation (cleaning) feature and greatly depends on the deep roots of perennial plants. When considering plants, look at their soil moisture requirements and plan accordingly. While your rain garden should favor plants that can tolerate occasional flooding, this does not mean you are limited to only wetland species or that they are necessarily the best fit for a rain garden. In places like Austin, where rain may be seasonal or intermittent, drought tolerance should be a greater consideration than tolerance of flooding. Luckily, Austin native plants with deep roots that are useful for driving water back into the earth are often drought tolerant as well—making them an excellent choice for rain gardens.
\n\n\n\nHere are a few good choices of plants for each zone of a rain garden that are well suited to Austin:
\n\n\n\nAdd Some Height. Although a rain garden is not the place to grow a large shade tree, you can add a small ornamental tree or shrub to act as a focal point in the landscape. A Texas redbud tree has beautiful pink-red flowers in the spring and will reach a mature height of 15-20 feet. A cypress or cedar elm specimen can work in a larger landscape, and will greatly increase the water absorption ability of your rain garden. Trees also lend much-needed shade along a street or sidewalk when rain gardens are used in those settings.
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Create a long life for your g
Rain gardens need to be kept free of weeds, both for plant health and aesthetic value. The best time to weed is right after a strong Austin rain event when the soil becomes soft and weed roots release their hold more easily. Additionally, by adding a three-inch layer of mulch on top of the soil surface weed growth will be further suppressed. Use a fine hardwood mulch, as it’s less likely to float away after a heavy rain.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/GAC1IlHN4g6UVu3tqj_NNysGh0QYYz_hfzfhXHhqicwfYyPkgEBP_auAm0HOQogjouBH3a-eLhAzAln7NJ85nc74CW0yNytgWgFTO0CPDvFnQcEQJ35mjPJ6mUQ3SrkPTvhVxaP_1i7kO5LA9A\")
Top Photo: Source
\n\n\n\nHave questions about lawn care? Please visit our Austin, TX lawn care page by clicking here.
\n","title":"How to Design a Rain Garden in Austin, Texas","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.6,"src":"/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/1789c/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.jpg","srcSet":"/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/107df/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.jpg 320w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/293e9/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.jpg 500w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/f2cbb/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.jpg 800w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/1789c/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.jpg 960w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/c26c2/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/1dd6e/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/67b76/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.webp 320w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/8df11/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.webp 500w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/98a65/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.webp 800w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/1dd6e/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.webp 960w,\n/static/34ff10423e0fac92880e54d6c9860aa7/3cc96/carlos-delgado-732806-unsplash-e1550710438919.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Design a Rain Garden in Austin, Texas | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"e6e2bb3c-02a5-5a14-bdff-acff445ad27f","slug":"gardening-without-a-garden-10-ideas-for-your-patio-or-balcony","path":"/home-garden/gardening-without-a-garden-10-ideas-for-your-patio-or-balcony/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"}],"date":"February 19th, 2019","excerpt":"There is no doubt that vegetables and fruits grown in a garden is 100% better than the same vegetables and fruits purchased at the supermarket. But, many people believe they need a home in the country, with a big yard to plant food. This is not true. Plants do not know where they are planted. […]
\n","content":"\nThere is no doubt that vegetables and fruits grown in a garden is 100% better than the same vegetables and fruits purchased at the supermarket. But, many people believe they need a home in the country, with a big yard to plant food. This is not true. Plants do not know where they are planted. As long as there are sunshine and rain, they will deliver delicious food.
\n\n\n\nIn order to have a successful garden in a small area, you need a plan. Measure the area that
\n\n\n\nyour garden will have. Be sure you leave walking space so you can tend to the plants.
![\"\"](\"https://i2.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/pierre-chatel-innocenti-1141208-unsplash.jpg?fit=819%2C1024&ssl=1\")
It can be difficult to know what to plant. Can your plants survive the climate where you live? What is the best soil to buy? What do plant illnesses look like? While your seed vendor can give you a lot of information, he cannot see your garden.
There are many free apps online that are just for you. They can answer many of the questions you have when you see something unexpected. Gardening Companion is a great app and it ranks among the highest by novice gardeners.
\n\n\n\nKnow how much water the plants need. For example, carrots are a great vegetable to plant this time of year. You must make sure the plants stay moist so the roots will not dry out. Know what you are expected to do for your plant. Your app will remind you when it is time to water if you set it up.
\n\n\n\nPests can ruin your crop, especially when you are new to gardening and miss the signs. However, there are certain flowers and herbs that will repel insects. Consider planting a couple of pots of Marigolds. Try adding some Lemongrass, Rosemary, and Basil to your herb section. These plants have a scent that repels insects.
\n\n\n\nStand a 4-foot ladder on your patio or balcony. Place wooden planks on each rung with wider planks at the bottom. This is a great way to take advantage of your vertical space. Some of your plants like pole beans and tomatoes will need a trellis because the plant needs to grow up instead of out. The best way to use these is to place the pots beside the wall. Push the trellis into the plant. As the plant grows it will climb the trellis.
Place herb plants in small pots in a tray. Place gravel in the bottom of the tray so they can drain. Use hanging pots that can be taken inside if need be.
\n\n\n\nMany plants will tolerate sun well. Your seed vendor will help you select the right seeds. However, if you need at least partial shade, consider putting up an awning. If this is not an option, erect a beach umbrella or two. If your garden is on the balcony, be sure you secure the umbrellas well.
\n\n\n\nIf you want to keep your plants as healthy and natural as possible, you can collect rainwater to water the plants. In most places, this is perfectly legal. However, some places have rules against it. Simply place an open barrel or large pot on the patio to collect the rain.
\n\n\n\nYou will need several clay pots that are 8” to 10”. These are for your vegetables and fruits. You will need a few hanging pots for herbs, strawberries, and smaller plants. Then you need potting soils and handheld gardening tools. You will need high-quality and fresh seeds by experts in the field. Click here: https://www.myseedneeds.com/blogs/seed-needs/growing-lemon-mint
\n\n\n\nMany people are surprised at how much produce they grow from a few plants. Spinach, tomatoes, squash, and many other plants, produce plants for a while. Have a plan of what to do with them. Canning, drying, and freezing is good options.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/oQpmlRXkirK9dpmWlOyt4C-KLUolWWRCskd6U3XeEjdbrfqdynqurf0G57uoXtG3ogV1MDPaOboxDFKpnuIlbO7tk5ErAiM_nCGEjQjL3mdTgmAc60qcZb1MDqcXZ4xErKkhnWiz\")
There are many plants that you can grow now. This is just a sample list. We encourage you to expand this list to include your preferences.
As you can see, planting a garden on your patio or balcony is a great way to enjoy nature while feeding your family healthy foods. You can change the plants with each season. Life will be delicious at your house!
\n\n\n\nHave questions about lawn care? Visit our lawn care page by clicking here.
\n","title":"Gardening Without A Garden: 10 Ideas For Your Patio or Balcony","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5005861664712778,"src":"/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/1789c/vegetables-790022_1280.jpg","srcSet":"/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/107df/vegetables-790022_1280.jpg 320w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/293e9/vegetables-790022_1280.jpg 500w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/f2cbb/vegetables-790022_1280.jpg 800w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/1789c/vegetables-790022_1280.jpg 960w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/356ef/vegetables-790022_1280.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/1dd6e/vegetables-790022_1280.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/67b76/vegetables-790022_1280.webp 320w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/8df11/vegetables-790022_1280.webp 500w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/98a65/vegetables-790022_1280.webp 800w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/1dd6e/vegetables-790022_1280.webp 960w,\n/static/e5752b6318dc112ee78cbd60171a8d0e/93f70/vegetables-790022_1280.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Gardening Without A Garden: 10 Ideas For Your Patio or Balcony | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"3d9b1b54-1afd-5b8f-b87f-5c9f0087f10a","slug":"pflugerville-tx-homeowners-how-to-identify-and-eradicate-these-6-common-weeds","path":"/lawn-care/tx/pflugerville/pflugerville-tx-homeowners-how-to-identify-and-eradicate-these-6-common-weeds/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"0638df1c-d93c-5225-8843-460dd87eaa41","name":"Pflugerville","count":1,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/pflugerville/"},{"id":"0f9826dc-fc31-550e-9967-1b3bf51f2bdb","name":"Texas","count":72,"path":"/category/lawn-care/tx/"}],"date":"February 13th, 2019","excerpt":"Living in Pflugerville, Texas certainly has many benefits. Being a suburb of Austin offers Pflugerville residents big city amenities and attractions close to home while still enjoying the charm of a small Texas town. However, a problem that plagues both big city and small town alike are common landscape weeds. Homeowners often find that if […]
\n","content":"\nLiving in Pflugerville, Texas certainly has many benefits. Being a suburb of Austin offers Pflugerville residents big city amenities and attractions close to home while still enjoying the charm of a small Texas town. However, a problem that plagues both big city and small town alike are common landscape weeds. Homeowners often find that if a certain garden weed problem is not dealt with quickly and efficiently the once small issue becomes an all-out ordeal to correct.
Let’s take a look at some of the most common weeds that plague central Texas homeowners like those in Pflugerville and discuss ways to properly identify and eradicate the culprits before they cause more chaos to your home and landscape.
A Plant Out of Place.
Weeds are known by everyone but are not always easily recognized. Let’s start by defining what exactly is a garden weed. Simply put a weed is just any plant that is ‘out of place’. While this definition could include desirable plants that have overgrown their intended boundaries, most commonly it is used to cover any plant that…
What’s in a Name?
In Texas, there are two main types of weeds: broadleaf and grassy. Both of these can be difficult to treat as there are also subcategories: annual and perennial. The perennials are the most difficult to get rid of since they live the longest and keep returning year after year. Left unchecked, the annual varieties will continue to reproduce and spread across your property year after year as well. Additionally, there are often several common names for the same weed so photographic identification is most helpful.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/dYH47_LhsxA6pRDosaZ0Yh8bfVmXsRRrqs77-meWU9H0NivpuN2ZywlPHIUd2ZzOhicYfnd-vt6Xh4VogxayJsZTJ3nQv3DyFjPlwqcupEGo6bn8ULJAMtAREkiYf3yLHETkjej1BuZTbWEA5g\")
It is in fact, a Texas wildflower, but grown in the wrong setting can be a troublesome weed. A winter annual that blooms in early spring, Henbit is very plentiful in Central Texas. Henbit’s leaves are rounded with notched edges. They grow every inch or so on a square stem. The stems are weak so the longer the weed grows, the less stable its foundation is. It has purple flowers that grow at the very top of the plant.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/odbWuyHSmDgLUwq4WpTvzVjhuOi-wM9SJuzIRXmesGIDacg1aLgUuTmXMJPcCgn-5OEBQMQBvhtKzRi5H9ESXPBeGDrPjS4UfgWdLobu5S4b_qIuOIBeZ9ujksNMjnfPxVlS3Lof5_VYp9vI1g\")
Iconic due to its seed-head, the dandelion is easily recognizable. Coming from the French name dent de lion (lion’s tooth), the flower has a unique look. Children and adults alike enjoy blowing the seeds, so they take root in a lot of lawns. The leaves grow close to the ground in a star-shaped pattern. In bloom, the flower is yellow. You will usually see them in spring to early summer. They are a biennial or perennial bloom.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/MBZtuJSNYr3d7wBmKh00vsMnrZOJWhplZ46IHz2xQYFgOQ_0hhjwnwVjs0du1-1B-bnm1SL4VWve9QVkOSLWB0LVEOCseIMHJGLqalsuWXAWITem1kfuUXqDBITLcB3L9xQBYf4si-0BTtjnkQ\")
Thistle has a rapid growth rate and it can get very tall. If you don’t deal with it, it will grow several feet high and about a foot wide, taking up a bit of space in your lawn. When it’s young, it resembles a dandelion except that it’s purplish in color and the leaves have long spines on them. They also have hairy, jagged edges. Butterflies and other insects love this woolly biennial or perennial and will often eat from it.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/BJgv1pl632m8SJD1h1HDcfwJ_YC5KOE36abJzx1DfemU3Toe6W2tZ2Qg_s5lUE4zQvtsOTJKFnQ5-HeDUHf8sse5lYtSdBgHgGNg4gSCk4nDK6B6Ro4J1x2vn3VtJ2pjrPG-hU5WYZM2lGZiSg\")
Chickweed is an annual broadleaf and it germinates in the fall. It grows during the winter, produces seed and dies by early summer. It’s actually an herb and is named as such because it is a favorite food of chickens. Chickweed grows to about 8 inches high and the plant can mat together to about 16 inches. The leaves have smooth edges and are no more than 1 inch long. They also always grow in pairs, directly opposite each other on the stem. The stem has hairs covering the entire length. The flowers are small, about 1/8 inch across, and white with five petals, giving them a star shape.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/DW_UJerhvBYNX83cmVS4LyZS9lIwwUl_mG8rlmy6q_dVNrsGrxozjWnGn70zXmVdkV3Jvf6eGItNHdh6JTyFNDPVzjNGInCQMxOxtaJiYcuI6jmhTo56GU3xYOQSc1LZW1q2_JkKe0HENTv6AA\")
Purslane tends to appear after the soil warms in late spring or early summer. It’s common in rich, fertile soil, often showing up in garden beds that have been freshly turned over. The succulent stems and leaves stay close to the ground. The tiny flowers at the stem tips quickly give way to seedpods. Purslane seeds can persist in soil for years, making them a perennial. It is heat and drought tolerant. The colors of round the stems are tinted red. The leaves are paddle-shaped, flat and alternately arranged.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/wimV98YUYR9v7Nab3hVZkZAHlZqhI2h10VjL-z6aNwnZs0lNrvWIXNvWy_fKW3EXv23VgDBapYHQrbR7EC8h60QHjFZUz_V1ioqavC3oW0MOc1QjavZibCsurV6SQ9SvaqgHM7_6POmnNiCM4g\")
This grass will quickly take over in poor soils that have been left unattended too long. They have a branched base with stems usually displaying red coloration. The leaf blades are flat, and both leaves and sheaths are covered with soft hairs. Seedheads are open and drooping. It will grow rapidly from seed, maturing within 2 months to 2 ft. tall.
\n\n\n\nNow that we’ve identified a few of the most common weedy plants that grow in Pflugerville, Texas let’s talk about the wide option of eradication strategies available to homeowners.
There are many effective organic herbicides on the market and are widely available especially at the home improvement stores and nurseries around Pflugerville and Austin. Look for applications that allow you to control the distribution of the herbicide so that you do not unintentionally damage or kill your desirable plants that may be near the bunch of weeds.
\n\n\n\nFor stubborn weeds use a mixture of white vinegar and orange oil as an organic herbicide.
\n\n\n\n1. In a large bucket mix 1 gallon 10-20% white vinegar with 2 ounces of orange oil or cleanser containing d-limonene (available at garden centers and some large retailers) and 2 ounces of liquid dishwashing detergent. Stir well to combine.
2. Funnel the weed killer into a plastic spray bottle. Shake it well as you use it, as the orange oil will tend to separate. Drench all surfaces of the weed with the solution during the hottest part of a sunny day. The weed will show signs of distress or die completely within two to four days. Repeat after 2 days and reapply after rain.
3. For year-long protection, give perennial weeds, such as dandelions, a good shot of the mixture in the spring before they have the chance to set seeds. Pick seed heads off and destroy them as they appear throughout the growing season. Don’t add them to your compost heap. Spray perennials with the herbicide in the fall to fully utilize the weed’s life cycle and send the material to the stems and roots to aid in killing the plants.
4. Tightly stored in a glass jar, this weed killing mixture will last indefinitely.
\n\n\n\nAnother benefit of living in the suburb of a large city means that homeowners in Pflugerville have easy access to a wide selection of highly specialized and qualified lawn care specialists that can come to your site and directly assess the issues your lawn presents.
\n\n\n\nHave more questions about lawn care? Visit our WikiLawn Lawn Care of Pflugerville, TX page.
\n\n\n\nTop Photo: Flickr // Jamie Beveridge
\n","title":"Pflugerville, TX Homeowners: How to identify and eradicate these 6 common weeds","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5003663003663004,"src":"/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/1789c/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.jpg","srcSet":"/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/107df/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.jpg 320w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/293e9/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.jpg 500w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/f2cbb/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.jpg 800w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/1789c/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.jpg 960w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/d2f4e/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.jpg 2048w","srcWebp":"/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/1dd6e/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/67b76/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.webp 320w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/8df11/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.webp 500w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/98a65/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.webp 800w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/1dd6e/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.webp 960w,\n/static/35a371036c5c76f0028bfdfc361936c2/8952c/lawn-weeds-pflugerville.webp 2048w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Pflugerville, TX Homeowners: How to identify and eradicate these 6 common weeds | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"854e8d74-58ed-5216-8d94-56a59594746c","slug":"10-best-vines-to-grow-in-your-garden","path":"/gardening-tips/10-best-vines-to-grow-in-your-garden/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"9d2e17fb-2d94-54d0-842f-ab7f7fc9f750","name":"Gardening Tips","count":3,"path":"/category/gardening-tips/"},{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"February 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Thunbergia (Black-eyed Susan) Known for its bright yellow flowers, Black-eyed Susan is an easy to grow vine. It prefers a moist but well-drained soil under bright sunlight. Black-eyed Susan can be easily trained to twine up fences, walls, pergolas, and privacy screens in a garden, deck or backyard. This lovely vine can grow up to […]
\n","content":"Known for its bright yellow flowers, Black-eyed Susan is an easy to grow vine. It prefers a moist but well-drained soil under bright sunlight. Black-eyed Susan can be easily trained to twine up fences, walls, pergolas, and privacy screens in a garden, deck or backyard. This lovely vine can grow up to 5 feet and produces attractive flowers in early or mid-fall. Some varieties also bear orange, white, blue and violet flowers.
\nPopular varieties include Thunbergia alata (yellow, orange and white flowers) and Thunbergia grandiflora (violet flowers).
\nClematis are one of the widely planted and the best vines to grow in gardens. They are popular for their attractive flowers that come in many different shades of red, pink, yellow, blue, purple and white. Clematis are usually easy to grow in a warm and sunny spot but they can tolerate spells of cold when protected from chilling winds and frost. The spring bloomers can be trained to twine up trellis and pergolas. The vine can grow up to 15 feet or more. A large number of varieties varying in size, growing habit and color of flowers are available for gardeners and horticulturists.
\nParthenocissus is a small genus of climbing vines from the family of grapes. These fast-growing plants are the best vines to grow against a wall, fence, or almost any other structure in your garden that you want to cover or hide. These clinging vines can easily attach themselves to almost any surface with abundant and beautiful foliage. Most species of Parthenocissus benefit from bright sunlight and a well-drained soil. Popular species include Parthenocissus quinquefolia (also know as Virgina Creeper) and Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Boston Ivy).
\n","title":"10 Best Vines to Grow in Your Garden","featured_media":null,"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Vines to Grow in Your Garden | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"8e0c94a4-7bcd-578e-b74f-717201a67a81","slug":"how-to-design-a-luxe-outdoor-shower-space","path":"/home-garden/how-to-design-a-luxe-outdoor-shower-space/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"}],"date":"January 24th, 2019","excerpt":"Outdoor showers are the pinnacle of a luxury that can easily be added to homes. Installing an outdoor shower can be made purely for function, relaxation, or both. Consider these elements in how to design a luxe outdoor shower space: Showerheads Choosing the right shower head for an outdoor shower can be vital to the […]
\n","content":"\nOutdoor showers are the pinnacle of a luxury that can easily be added to homes. Installing an outdoor shower can be made purely for function, relaxation, or both. Consider these elements in how to design a luxe outdoor shower space:
\n\n\n\nChoosing the right shower head for an outdoor shower can be vital to the curation of an upscale experience at home. Incorporate the ultimate in gratification with a showerhead that will mimic a gentle rainstorm from overhead. There are many options that include rain-like properties in a wide variety of finishes in order to perfectly match any luxe outdoor shower area. If you really want to create an unforgettable outdoor shower experience, consider adding a waterfall element in order to relax even more.
\n\n\n\nOne of the most important things when choosing to design an outdoor shower is involving elements of privacy into the space. Some homeowners may already live in a secluded area where privacy isn’t needed but most homes will need some variation of privacy for an outdoor shower. Consider using different privacy options like natural wood walls or placing the outdoor shower near a dense row of hedges. Consider how you will use the space, If you only plan to use your outdoor shower after swimming then you probably don’t need much privacy as you’ll still be in a swimsuit. Additional privacy composes an outdoor space as a relaxing retreat, cultivating a feeling of exclusivity that is central to an epicurean experience.
\n\n\n\nTying in natural elements into an outdoor shower is easy given the location of the space. Consider the natural areas of your yard when choosing the location of your outside shower to ensure that it will not only be comfortable but flows with the pre existing elements of your space. Such options include building a shower area around the trunk of a mature tree or even incorporating potted plants or bamboo to create a natural barrier for even more extra privacy. One current design trend to consider is to make a statement with a living garden wall to give your shower a luscious touch.
\n\n\n\nMany outdoor showers feature concrete footing with a drain but that option can quickly pool areas of water making for a less than ideal experience. Consider raising the footing of your outdoor shower by building up a base made of wood, stone, or flat rocks. Not only do these elements add a luxury look to a shower design, it will also allow for bare feet to feel comfortable and at ease while using an outdoor shower. A raised platform will also help in draining water and keeping toes out of pools of muddy water. Make sure to plan for platforms that are safe when wet in order to keep slips at a minimum.
Homeowners who live on lakes, rivers, or the ocean would appreciate a shower that is available year round for washing off sandy feet. Consider insulating your outdoor shower fixture in order to be able to use it all throughout the winter to keep feet clean after a morning walk on the beach. Installing an outdoor shower that is attached to the exterior of the home will help in keeping pipes warm with little insulation needed. Keeping sand and dirt outside is an added bonus of creating a luxe outdoor shower space.
\n\n\n\nThe best outdoor showers are all about the extra features. Consider including a natural seating option, like a wood bench or cedar stool in order to relax and really enjoy the time spent in an outdoor shower. If you want to create the ultimate lavish experience, consider adding extra items like built in body sprays that will help to massage muscles and provide a full body shower calm down. Make sure to also include ample areas for soft, fresh towels nearby your outdoor shower to finish off the ultimate in a luxe outdoor shower experience.
\n\n\n\nThere are many different design options to include when trying to create an elegant outdoor shower experience. Consider adding natural elements of privacy as well as using plants (try using native plants for low maintenance) in order to finish off the overall feel of an outdoor shower. An elevated platform, luxe showerhead, and insulating your shower are important for year round use. Finish off your outdoor shower with plenty of extras to provide a luxurious outdoor shower experience.
\n\n\n\nHave any questions about lawn care? Visit our lawn care page for all things related to your yard!
\n","title":"How to Design a Luxe Outdoor Shower Space","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":0.7994389901823282,"src":"/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/3d26e/wooden-luxe-shower-space.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/107df/wooden-luxe-shower-space.jpg 320w,\n/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/293e9/wooden-luxe-shower-space.jpg 500w,\n/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/3d26e/wooden-luxe-shower-space.jpg 570w","srcWebp":"/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/f1f15/wooden-luxe-shower-space.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/67b76/wooden-luxe-shower-space.webp 320w,\n/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/8df11/wooden-luxe-shower-space.webp 500w,\n/static/5ec6243a3c64fccc0c778d5b6f498c22/f1f15/wooden-luxe-shower-space.webp 570w","sizes":"(max-width: 570px) 100vw, 570px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Design a Luxe Outdoor Shower Space | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"cbdb6945-52ef-5a57-a3fb-89c398f6455c","slug":"orlando-parents-teaching-children-the-beauty-of-gardening","path":"/lawn-care/fl/orlando/orlando-parents-teaching-children-the-beauty-of-gardening/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Emaley Baxter is an expert landscaper who loves writing in her free time. She enjoys research and exploring the great outdoors.","name":"Emaley Baxter","id":"c006aa66-4cfc-59dc-b3ce-5c07b0f83ff0","path":"/author/emaleybaxter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/889dbc1c9ea88d564723019ac6c9b47b?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"57f1b1d9-6347-5707-b4b6-65e6dd1b393d","name":"Florida","count":46,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"a47ebc3c-cc0b-5c7a-9e60-90ac2de0ec2d","name":"Orlando","count":10,"path":"/category/lawn-care/fl/orlando/"}],"date":"January 24th, 2019","excerpt":"As anyone who loves to spend the day in the garden knows one of the greatest senses of accomplishment can be leading a friend or loved one to find their own personal joy in the art and science of home gardening. This, of course, extends to the children and young adults in our lives. But […]
\n","content":"\nAs anyone who loves to spend the day in the garden knows one of the greatest senses of accomplishment can be leading a friend or loved one to find their own personal joy in the art and science of home gardening. This, of course, extends to the children and young adults in our lives. But with so many distractions in today’s modern life how can we best instill our love and passion that comes along with gardening?
Fortunately, the Orlando, Florida climate allows for a year-round growing season of all kinds of engaging plants that provide outdoor visual interest as well as introducing youngsters to the beauty and gratification that comes with gardening.
\n\n\n\nGet them started early. Young children often want to do everything the adults are doing. Help start their love of the outdoors and all things growing early by bringing them out with you when you garden. Infants and young children will love being in the fresh air and enjoy the sensory stimulation that comes with the outdoors. Let them play in the soil alongside you as you prepare your planting beds or help get them exploring the vibrant colors and smells of the summer blooms and foliage.
![\"\"](\"https://i1.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/liana-mikah-665127-unsplash.jpg?fit=683%2C1024&ssl=1\")
Learn more than gardening. Creating special tasks for your young ones can help keep them engaged when doing tedious tasks in the garden. Making a game of something as simple as digging holes for new plants or picking off the spent flower heads can teach valuable lessons in fine motor skills as well as the rewards of perseverance.
\n\n\n\nCitrus & Fruit Trees. Florida is known as the Citrus State for good reason. Why not bring the delicious reward of growing your own sweet treat right on your patio? Choose from the numerous varieties available at your local garden center and pick out a non-porous pot with plenty of drainage holes in the bottom to get started. At home, place your new tree in a sunny spot that you and your children can easily watch for signs of growth. Soon enough your family will be enjoying the benefits of homegrown citrus trees, from the glossy evergreen foliage, intoxicating floral fragrance of the delicate white blooms, and the ultimate payoff: letting your little ones do the picking of fresh fruit from your tree.
\n\n\n\nVegetables- A Kid’s New Best Friend. It may be cliche, but getting your kids to eat a full serving of their vegetables might be more common than an Orlando snowstorm in July. However, a vegetable hand-picked from your own garden tastes better than anything you can buy in a store. Coupled with the excitement of planting, watching grow, and the excitement of harvesting, kids are sure to have a new appreciation for their veggies. And here in Florida home gardeners can grow a variety of vegetables all year long. Home gardens are a convenient source for healthy foods and will encourage you and your family to eat more fresh vegetables too. The choices are endless, with vegetables of all sizes, colors, and shapes. If you think that the Florida summer heat and humidity
A Small Handful of Big Flowers. As adults, we often think of our landscapes and gardens as carefully curated pieces of living art. We place a high value on perfectly formed blooms or the intricate patterning on a delicate stem of foliage. But for children, rows, and rows of beautiful blooms are a tempting treat almost too exciting to resist. If you have little ones that are eager to garden but you fear possible damage to your formal landscape consider creating a designated area for your kids to be able to explore nature in their own backyard. Choose from a few of these Orlando kid-friendly choices and watch your littles’ engagement with nature skyrocket.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://i0.wp.com/www.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/stanislav-stajer-73392-unsplash.jpg?fit=1024%2C680&ssl=1\")
Sunflowers are probably the most traditional seeds to give kids. They germinate so easily, you can have kids start the seeds indoors to see how fast they sprout, then move seedlings out to the garden. Kids will stay engaged with the growing process as they grow big and tall. When the season is over, they can harvest the seeds for themselves or watch as the birds come to eat them up! There are so many varieties to pick, from mammoth stalks that grow more than 10 feet high to miniature puffy teddy-bear cultivars. Hit the seed aisle at the garden center to pick your favorite.
These tough succulents are multitaskers when it comes to having a plant that both adults and kids will love. Super trendy succulents are easy to find in most garden centers and since they propagate by leaf dropping or small cuttings of stems they are a great, inexpensive, way to teach kids about plant growth habits. Being one of the more forgiving plants out there, Hens and Chicks succulent are almost impossible to kill. They love lots of sun or light shade and can be planted in the ground or in a pot. Just be sure to not over water. Kids might even want to get creative and make use of these plants in their miniature or fairy gardens.
An often overlooked plant that does well in the central Florida area is the Lamb’s Ear. It gets its descriptive name from the iconic lamb’s ear shape and ultra soft, woolly mint green leaves. Adding these low growing plants along a planting bed border will bring an underused color to your planting bed and also offers little fingers a chance to touch the unique leaves. Plus, they bloom from early summer to mid-fall so you can enjoy them for many months.
\n\n\n\nHave any questions about gardening or lawn care? Visit our Orlando page for more information!
\n\n\n\nTop Photo by Kyle Ellefson on Unsplash
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