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	<title>Fataltraction.com &#187; Gardening</title>
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	<link>http://www.fataltraction.com</link>
	<description>Home Improvement,  Interior Design And Gardening Blogs</description>
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		<title>Buying Used Chainsaws</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-used-chainsaws.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-used-chainsaws.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 07 Apr 2010 02:23:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Buying Used Chainsaws]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=468</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Is it worth buying a used chainsaw?  That depends!  You need to understand a few points about buying used chainsaws.  First heed the old “buyer beware” warning.  Generally there is no return of a used chainsaw.  So be cautious, if you go to a yard sale and the seller can’t [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-used-chainsaws.htm">Buying Used Chainsaws</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Is it worth buying a used chainsaw?  That depends!  You need to understand a few points about buying used chainsaws.  First heed the old “buyer beware” warning.  Generally there is no return of a used chainsaw.  So be cautious, if you go to a yard sale and the seller can’t or won’t show you that the saw works, at least that it runs, don’t even consider buying it, unless you just want it for parts.</p>
<p>If you are looking for a used chainsaw we will give you some ideas of where to look.  Try the classified section of your newspaper, message boards at supermarkets and other retail outlets.  Got to yard, farm and estate sales, these venues often publish a list of items being offered.</p>
<p>Use word of mouth, let your relatives and friends know you are in the market for a used chainsaw.  One of them may know of a neighbor, friend or relative who is looking to sell a chainsaw.</p>
<p>Type “used chainsaws” into your search engine.  You should get dozens of hits.  Make sure you check the shipping charges.  Auctions, both live and online, are another option for you.  The one drawback here is there is usually an “as is” policy at most of these sites.  However your online search should yield a few factory reconditioned chainsaws and these can often be had for about half of the original price, even with shipping charges that should save you some money.<br />
<span id="more-468"></span><br />
If you shop carefully and check out any prospective chainsaw it is possible to get a good deal and save some money, you just need to be aware of what you are getting.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-used-chainsaws.htm">Buying Used Chainsaws</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<title>Buying Seeds For Your Garden On The Net</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-seeds-for-your-garden-on-the-net.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-seeds-for-your-garden-on-the-net.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 04 Apr 2010 04:57:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Buying Seeds For Your Garden On The Net]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=461</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many people like the challenge of raising plants and flowers from seeds. While it can be easier to stop by the local gardening center and purchase plants that are already growing, many gardeners truly enjoy the prospect and challenge of raising plants and vegetables for their gardens from seeds.
Perhaps you are a person who is [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-seeds-for-your-garden-on-the-net.htm">Buying Seeds For Your Garden On The Net</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Many people like the challenge of raising plants and flowers from seeds. While it can be easier to stop by the local gardening center and purchase plants that are already growing, many gardeners truly enjoy the prospect and challenge of raising plants and vegetables for their gardens from seeds.</p>
<p>Perhaps you are a person who is interested in growing flowers and vegetables for your own garden spaces from seeds. If that is the case, you may be wondering what resources are available to you through which you can order seeds for garden plants, seeds for flowering plants and vegetables for your gardens.</p>
<p>As with so many things in the 21st century, the Internet and World Wide Web is proving to be a truly wonderful resource for people who are interested in growing their own plants from seed. At this point in time, there is a wide array of different types of websites through which consumers such as you can actually purchase seeds for your own gardens, including seeds for flowering and for vegetable plants.<br />
<span id="more-461"></span><br />
There are now some more generalized websites on the Net through which you can by all types of seeds. For example, there are sites that are in business to offer men and women seeds at discounted prices. At the other end of the spectrum, there are website operations that have been established to provide people with some more high end (and more expensive) products.</p>
<p>Because many people have become interested in more specific types of gardening &#8212; for example, organic gardening &#8212; there are now websites that cater to some of these more specialized areas of gardening. For example, if you are interested in organic vegetable gardening, you will want to consider stopping by one or another of the sites that deal specifically in the selling or organic vegetable seeds.</p>
<p>By way of another example, there are some people who are interested in crafting and creating beautiful flower gardens. To this end, there are innumerable websites on the Net that deal with the selling of seeds for people interested in growing flowers. Indeed, there are sites that are committed specifically to selling seeds for specific kinds of flowers.</p>
<p>Finally, there are information resources on the Net that can provide you with authoritative information on a wide array of different issues dealing with gardening. In both the short and the long term, you can learn a great deal about gardening practices from these useful websites.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-seeds-for-your-garden-on-the-net.htm">Buying Seeds For Your Garden On The Net</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<item>
		<title>BUYING OR BUILDING A WATER FOUNTAIN: THINGS TO CONSIDER</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-or-building-a-water-fountain-things-to-consider.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-or-building-a-water-fountain-things-to-consider.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 01 Apr 2010 04:19:56 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[aerators]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[floating fountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fountain pumps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fountec]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kasco]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoor fountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pond fountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pond lights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[protec]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[solar fountain pumps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[water wonders]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[waterfall pumps]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[waterfalls]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=452</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A great deal about fountains has changed over the last decade. Now there are really high class ones made of copper, stainless steel, bronze, concrete, and stone,  and some fairly nice ones made of resin and fiberglass. There are several things to consider, though. As a pump wholesaler, I speak with fountain owners all [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-or-building-a-water-fountain-things-to-consider.htm">BUYING OR BUILDING A WATER FOUNTAIN: THINGS TO CONSIDER</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A great deal about fountains has changed over the last decade. Now there are really high class ones made of copper, stainless steel, bronze, concrete, and stone,  and some fairly nice ones made of resin and fiberglass. There are several things to consider, though. As a pump wholesaler, I speak with fountain owners all the time and also look at lots of samples of<br />
fountains at trade shows and in magazines. Before purchasing a fountain, there are quite a few questions to ask. What looks good in a store might not look good at your home or business.</p>
<p>Bronze and Stainless Steel Fountains</p>
<p>These are at the high end of fountains, and can retail for ten to twenty thousand dollars. They are plain classy. But will one of these fit in where you want to put it? Do you have the right yard or business or location for such a classic kind of display? Also, do you like the aging process (the verdigris patina) that bronze undergoes? Can you afford one of these? If you answered yes to these questions, a bronze or stainless steel<br />
fountain might be right for you. It will last your lifetime, your kids’ lifetimes, their kids’ lifetimes, etc. And they are durable enough to be moved from house to house.</p>
<p>Copper Fountains</p>
<p>Like bronze<br />
fountains, these too tend to be classy, especially the name brand ones like Water Wonders, which mix copper with glass and slate. These make especially nice Wall fountainswall fountains. There are certain things to think about, though. Are you locating the fountain in a room with good acoustics? Some rooms make the pump noise really echo, especially small rooms with walls that are close together. Do you know someone or can you hire an electrician to hide the cord in the wall? These fountains are a bit too expensive to buy if you’re going to let the cord run outside the wall for everyone to see. Finally, it is a good idea to go listen to them run at a store before purchasing. Some of them make little water noise and some make a lot. To increase water sound you might have to turn up the pump to the point of there being slight splash.</p>
<p>Concrete Fountains</p>
<p>These still provide the most bang for the buck, primarily because concrete is so inexpensive. In fact, a huge part of the cost of concrete fountains is in transporting them to stores for sale and in the labor of painting them. The concrete itself is the least expensive part of the fountains’ manufacture.  Most concrete companies (though not all) reinforce their fountains with steel. This makes them strong but also means the concrete must be sealed. If not painted (as most fountains from Mexico are not), then they do need to have a clear sealant put on them. Otherwise the water will seep through to the steel, which will rust. Eventually, the fountain is likely to crack. One final word of advice on concrete, beware of “cute.” Cute<br />
fountains (mama dogs with baby dogs, boys peeing) sometimes don’t look so cute over time. Ask yourself if you’ll still think the fountain is cute years later. Remember, concrete fountains can last hundreds of years. And they are difficult to move so pick something that will stay put. The traditional Italian 3-tier fountain is always a safe bet.</p>
<p>Resin and Fiberglass<br />
Fountains</p>
<p>The quality of these has gotten a lot better, and they have the clear advantage of being more easily handled than concrete ones. Some do look like concrete and stone, though they tend to look much more realistic at first glance than they do after a week has passed. Then it is pretty clear that they are faux. These are also a lot easier on employees who work in  tores, as they don’t have to worry as much about their backs. We would sell these at our store but just don’t like their looks as well as the real thing.<br />
<span id="more-452"></span><br />
Stone Fountains</p>
<p>These look incredibly good or mediocre. The handcrafted stone fountains out of Mexico and many of the large ones out of China are beautiful. But there are also mass-produced stone<br />
fountains, which use crushed stone mixed with resin. These just don’t look like real stone to us even though they are.</p>
<p>Making Your Own<br />
Water Fountain</p>
<p>There are lots of ways to make your own<br />
fountains. The easiest way, perhaps, is to place a pump in a small tub or on some liner. Then place a wire or plastic grate on top of the tub or the liner, and layer pebbles, rocks, etc. over the wire or plastic grate. Your pump and plumbing will be hidden! No one will no where your water is coming from. You can then connect black PVC piping to the pump (black sprinkler pipe is incredibly inexpensive yet professional looking) and let the water rise up seemingly out of rocks in your yard. You won’t have to worry much about pets as the water source is covered with stones. Likewise, you won’t have to worry about kids drowning. You can also build a little<br />
waterfall over such a pit if you want, just throwing in boulders to hide your electric and tubing, etc. Some people use bamboo for spouts. You can also drill holes through slate (we’ve found it’s really easy if you soak the slate for a day first). Slate is so porous, however, you ought to seal it once you’re done drilling. You can also find rocks in nature that already have holes in them.</p>
<p>How Big of a Pump do I need?</p>
<p>Basically, if you buy a<br />
fountain at a store you should have instructions on the best size pump for that particular piece of garden art. If you are making your own fountain, here is a rule of thumb: for every inch of width you need to pump 100 gallons per hour. But note that a100 gallon per hour pump is not pumping the same volume at one foot head (elevation above the pump), two feet head, three feet, and so forth. If you are making your own<br />
fountain, it is likely you will have to guess which size to buy, and you might be wrong the first time you build one. Most pumps are adjustable but often can be adjusted down only a bit. However, magnetic-driven pumps, the most common kind, are inexpensive and durable.</p>
<p>http://www.fountainmountain.com</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-or-building-a-water-fountain-things-to-consider.htm">BUYING OR BUILDING A WATER FOUNTAIN: THINGS TO CONSIDER</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Buying Chainsaws Online</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-online.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-online.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 29 Mar 2010 06:29:44 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Buying Chainsaws Online]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=446</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[You want to buy a chainsaw online and don’t know how to go about it.  Are the shipping charges worth it or should you go to your local hardware, home improvement or garden supply store. First you should read all you can on line about chainsaws.  Find out the pros and cons of [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-online.htm">Buying Chainsaws Online</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>You want to buy a chainsaw online and don’t know how to go about it.  Are the shipping charges worth it or should you go to your local hardware, home improvement or garden supply store. First you should read all you can on line about chainsaws.  Find out the pros and cons of both gas and electric chainsaws.  Check the ads or the stores in your area for prices, services and return policy.</p>
<p>Then go on line and look at prices and return policy.  When you buy a chainsaw on line you usually are expected to take or send your chainsaw to a local authorized service center.  Look for specials like a spare chain or free shipping.  Compare the cost at your local stores to the online cost including shipping.<br />
<span id="more-446"></span><br />
Choose the one that costs the least amount whether from a local physical store or an online virtual store. Some retailers that have both stores and websites allow you to order on line and then pick up your item at your local store.  Shopping on line lets you shop from just about anywhere in the world and have it delivered to your door.</p>
<p>Also shopping online allows you to go to sites that compare prices from several online stores so that you can get the best possible deals on your chainsaw.  Most online stores require a credit card although some will accept checks.  Shipping for a chainsaw or any other item  on line can save you time, money and cause you less stress since you don’t have to drive to the store, stand in line and then drive home.  You should definitely consider shopping on line for your chainsaw.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-online.htm">Buying Chainsaws Online</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Buying Chainsaws From Auction Sites</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-from-auction-sites.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-from-auction-sites.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 26 Mar 2010 05:24:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Buying Chainsaws]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=440</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One source for affordable chainsaws can be on line auction sites.  Often you can save quite a lot of money shopping the auction sites for a chainsaw. First, try to know what you are looking for.  Research the brand and what the retail price is.  Decide whether you want a gasoline or [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-from-auction-sites.htm">Buying Chainsaws From Auction Sites</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One source for affordable chainsaws can be on line auction sites.  Often you can save quite a lot of money shopping the auction sites for a chainsaw. First, try to know what you are looking for.  Research the brand and what the retail price is.  Decide whether you want a gasoline or electric chainsaw and what size chainsaw you want or need.  At the same time you need to be flexible.  If you are looking for Brand A, but a comparable saw from Brand C is on an auction site for less money, grab it.<br />
<span id="more-440"></span><br />
You can really get bargains at these sites but there are a few things you need to watch.  You may find a new in the box chainsaw and the starting bid is low, however it can quickly rise well above the retail price.  People get caught up in the bidding and will just keep raising the ante in the quest to win.</p>
<p>Even if you win a bid at or close to the retail price, you still have to pay shipping and there is also almost always a no return policy.  If however you are not satisfied with your purchase and think you can prove they buyer deceived you, you can file a complaint with the site and they will attempt to resolve the situation.</p>
<p>At least one of these sites has sellers that run “stores” on that site and some of them will allow you to return items that are unsatisfactory. We bought a factory reconditioned saw with full factory warranty at slightly below retail price.  Recently we found a similar offer for a gasoline chainsaw on one of these auction sites.  Keep your head, compare prices at the auction sites with retail prices and stick to what you budgeted for a chainsaw.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/buying-chainsaws-from-auction-sites.htm">Buying Chainsaws From Auction Sites</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<item>
		<title>Building A Garden Fence</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/building-a-garden-fence.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/building-a-garden-fence.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 21 Mar 2010 08:39:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[contractors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fence]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gates]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=434</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[They are privacy and shelter are two important things in the garden. The latter is often a problem in gardens which are exposed to cold prevailing winds. Both these points are important not only for the gardener himself, but also for the plants in his garden.
Young growth can be severely damaged by cold winds and [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/building-a-garden-fence.htm">Building A Garden Fence</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>They are privacy and shelter are two important things in the garden. The latter is often a problem in gardens which are exposed to cold prevailing winds. Both these points are important not only for the gardener himself, but also for the plants in his garden.</p>
<p>Young growth can be severely damaged by cold winds and frequent buffeting will cause a great deal of root disturbance. Although privacy and shelter can be provided by trees and shrubs, fences also have an important part to play.</p>
<p>The choice of fencing must never be undertaken lightly, for serious consideration must be given to its appearance and construction.</p>
<p>Strength is very important. A fence is only as strong as its supports. Most fences are supplied with strong posts, usually 4-6in (10-15cm) square. Sometimes concrete posts are supplied; these are extremely strong. Strength of timber also depends on the prevention of rot, and unless cedar wood is used (except for posts), all timber should be treated with a suitable preservative. Creosote can be used, although it should be allowed to soak into the timber for several weeks before plants are trained against it. Unless this is done, there is the danger of stem and leaf scorch and its use is not generally recommended where plants are to be grown against or near a fence. A safer treatment consists of the use of copper naphthenate preservatives such as the green, horticultural grades of Cuprinol or Solignum.<br />
<span id="more-434"></span><br />
Types of fencing</p>
<p>The most popular types are purchased as units or panels. Usually they are from 5-6ft (1.5-1.8m) in length with heights varying from about 3-6ft ( 90cm-1.8m). A solid or close boarded fence is, as its name implies, a design which consists of upright or horizontal strips of wood, some 6in (15cm) wide and 1in (2-2.5cm) thick. The strips are nailed to two or more supporting rails at the rear of the panel. These provide complete privacy and wind protection.</p>
<p>Weather board fencing consists of wedge-shaped strips of wood, (1 in 2cm) in thickness at one edge, tapering to 0.5 in (1cm) at the other. Each strip overlaps the next by about 1 in(2cm). The advantage of this design is that it is virtually peep proof.</p>
<p>Trellis fencing is suited as a support for climbing and trailing plants. It is not a strong design but can be used to good effect for covering unsightly walls or as an additional part of a fence design. It usually consists of laths of wood 1 by 3/4in ( 2.5 by 1.5cm) thick, fastened across each other vertically and horizontally to form 6-8in (15-20cm) squares. The laths are attached to a more substantial framing of 1 or 1in (2.5 or 3cm) square timber.</p>
<p>One of the latest advances in fence production is the sale of kits which are so accurately machined and complete that even an unskilled person can erect panels without any trouble. With these kits have come new ideas in design, and many can be made up into contemporary designs. This is especially useful where bold effects are required in the construction of patios. Many ultra-modern properties are being built and this advance in fence appearance will be welcomed by their owners.</p>
<p>Fencing can also be provided in the form of chain link or mesh netting. The best quality is heavily galvanized to withstand the rigors of the weather.</p>
<p>A more recent innovation is the plastic coating of chain link over the galvanized wire. Standard colors of dark green, black, white, yellow and light green can be obtained.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/building-a-garden-fence.htm">Building A Garden Fence</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<title>Build a Rain Garden</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/build-a-rain-garden.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/build-a-rain-garden.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 16 Mar 2010 06:07:13 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[rain garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sustainable]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[water pollution]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=425</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Build a Rain Garden
There&#8217;s a new garden in town. It is (mostly) easy to install, looks good
year-round, requires almost no maintenance and has a terrifically upbeat impact
on the environment. No wonder rain gardens are such a great new gardening trend!
Storm water runoff can be a big problem in summer during heavy thunderstorms.
As the water rushes [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/build-a-rain-garden.htm">Build a Rain Garden</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Build a Rain Garden</h2>
<p>There&#8217;s a new garden in town. It is (mostly) easy to install, looks good<br />
year-round, requires almost no maintenance and has a terrifically upbeat impact<br />
on the environment. No wonder rain gardens are such a great new gardening trend!</p>
<p>Storm water runoff can be a big problem in summer during heavy thunderstorms.<br />
As the water rushes across roofs and driveways, it picks up oil and other<br />
pollutants. Municipal storm water treatment plants often can’t handle the<br />
deluge of water, and in many locations the untreated water ends up in natural<br />
waterways. The EPA estimates <em>as much as 70 percent of the pollution in our<br />
streams, rivers, and lakes is carried there by storm water!</em> By taking<br />
responsibility for the rainwater that falls on your own roof and driveway, you&#8217;ll<br />
be helping to protect our rivers, streams and lakes from stormwater pollution.</p>
<p>To reduce the excess water runoff, many towns are encouraging businesses and<br />
homeowners to install rain gardens in their yards. Rain gardens are specially<br />
constructed gardens located in low areas of a yard where storm water can collect.<br />
The idea is to have the water naturally funnel to this garden. The rain garden<br />
collects water runoff and stores and filters it until it can be slowly<br />
absorbed by the soil. Rather than rushing off into a storm sewer or a local<br />
waterway, the rainwater can collect in a garden where it will be naturally<br />
filtered by plants and soil.</p>
<h1>Installing a rain garden is easy.</h1>
<p>You simply dig a shallow depression in your yard and plant it with native<br />
grasses and wildflowers; things that are easy to grow and maintain in your area.</p>
<p>What makes a garden a rain garden? First, the garden will be designed with a low<br />
spot in the middle to collect and absorb rain water and snow melt. This depression<br />
can range from a few inches in a small garden, to an excavated trough that&#8217;s<br />
several feet deep. Second, rain gardens are usually located where they&#8217;ll catch<br />
the runoff from impermeable surfaces like sidewalks and driveways, or from gutters<br />
and roof valleys. Third, rain gardens are usually planted with native wildflowers<br />
and grasses that will thrive in tough growing conditions. Finally, rain gardens<br />
are designed to channel heavy rains to another rain garden or to another part of<br />
the garden.<br />
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<p>Your rain garden should be located at least 10 feet from the house. The garden’s<br />
size and location depends on the yard. The ideal situation would<br />
be to locate the garden in a natural depression. You also can funnel water<br />
from downspouts on gutters into the garden. The soil should be well drained<br />
so the water doesn’t sit in the garden for more than two days. A special<br />
“rain garden” soil mix of 50 to 60 percent sand, 20 to 30 percent topsoil,<br />
and 20 to 30 percent compost is recommended. You can dig this mixture into<br />
the soil to depth of 2 feet before planting.</p>
<p>Once you&#8217;ve identified the new garden&#8217;s location, remove the sod and dig a<br />
shallow depression approximately 6-inches deep. Slope the sides gradually from the<br />
outside edge to the deepest area. Use the soil that you remove to build up a<br />
slightly raised area on the lowest side of the garden. This berm will help contain<br />
the stormwater and allow it to percolate slowly through the rain garden.</p>
<p>If your rain garden is no more than about 6-inches deep, stormwater will usually<br />
be absorbed within a one- to seven-day period. Because mosquitoes require seven<br />
to 10 days to lay and hatch their eggs, this will help you avoid mosquito problems.</p>
<p>Your downspout or sump pump outlet should be directed toward your rain garden<br />
depression. This can be accomplished by a natural slope, by digging a shallow<br />
swale, or by piping the runoff directly to the garden through a buried 4&#8243; diameter plastic drain tile.</p>
<h1>Plant Selection.. The final touch.</h1>
<p>The most difficult part of building a rain garden (if it can even be called that)<br />
can be plant selection. Plants need to be tough enough to withstand periodic flooding,<br />
yet attractive enough to look good in the garden. Deep-rooted, low-care native<br />
plants, such as asters, and tough non-natives, such as daylilies, are best. If<br />
properly designed, the rain garden can consist of a blend of attractive shrubs,<br />
perennials, trees, and ground covers. Planting strips of grass around the<br />
garden and using mulch also can help filter the water.</p>
<p>New plants should be watered every other day for the first two weeks or so.<br />
Once they are well established, your garden should thrive without additional watering.<br />
Fertilizers will not be necessary, and only minimal weeding will be needed after<br />
the first summer of growth.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/build-a-rain-garden.htm">Build a Rain Garden</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<title>British Gardens during the Roman Years</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/british-gardens-during-the-roman-years.htm</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 12 Mar 2010 07:09:25 +0000</pubDate>
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				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[British]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fountain]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[garden architecture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gardens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wall fountains]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[water]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=419</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[To get a good picture of Romano-British gardens of antiquity, we must consider their prototypes in Italy. Horticulture in primitive Italy, as in other countries, was at its beginning merely intended for practical purposes. Gradually the Latin word hortus, applied in the days of republican simplicity to a field of vegetables, was stretched, at the [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/british-gardens-during-the-roman-years.htm">British Gardens during the Roman Years</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>To get a good picture of Romano-British gardens of antiquity, we must consider their prototypes in Italy. Horticulture in primitive Italy, as in other countries, was at its beginning merely intended for practical purposes. Gradually the Latin word hortus, applied in the days of republican simplicity to a field of vegetables, was stretched, at the time of the luxurious emperors, to denote pleasure gardens of the utmost magnificence. In this latter period, the source of every new form of Roman art, including garden architecture, was Greece, which in its turn had received inspiration from Egypt, Persia, and Assyria.</p>
<p>Egyptian gardens are the earliest of which definite records still exist. Pictures and inscriptions, dating far back into the centuries before Christ, show that most Egyptian dwellings were built around a series of courtyards containing vegetation both useful and ornamental. Originally, a row of trees along the inner wall of the building shaded it and the enclosed quadrangle. Later, the tree trunks gave place to solid columns, and the overhanging branches to projecting rafters, which resulted in a general effect foreshadowing the Greek peristyle (columned porch or colonnade) and monastic cloisters.<br />
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Religious significance was attached to almost every feature in pre-Christian gardens, and tree worship was observed in all ancient countries. Among the favorites were the pine, the emblem of Cybele, the oak of Jupiter, the laurel of Apollo, the myrtle of Venus, the poplar of Hercules, and the olive of Minerva. The cypress was also grown in many places. Yew, although common, was not much esteemed; instead, juniper and rosemary were often employed for topiary work.   Box, too, was frequently clipped, and then, as now, considered the best shrub for edgings.</p>
<p>The rose, the lily, and the violet were among the most distinguished flowers of antiquity, but the narcissus, anemone, gladiolus, iris, poppy, amaranth, immortelle, verbena, periwinkle, and crocus were also cultivated and admired. Many flowerless plants like basil, sweet marjoram, and thyme were grown for their fragrance, while the acanthus was welcome on account of its beautiful foliage. Ivy covered the walls or was trained to form garlands between trees and columns.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/british-gardens-during-the-roman-years.htm">British Gardens during the Roman Years</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<title>Bring The Smell Of Nature Into Your Home With These Fragrant Flowers</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/bring-the-smell-of-nature-into-your-home-with-these-fragrant-flowers.htm</link>
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		<pubDate>Sun, 07 Mar 2010 08:32:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flower garden]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[flowers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fresh cut flowers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gardening equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[growing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=413</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A lot of money is spent in this country to reproduce fragrances for perfumes and air fresheners. The majority of these manufactured fragrances have alcohol and other additives that can actually irritate the membranes in your nose. Nature has done it the best and these are some of the most heavenly fragrances you’ll ever smell.
1) [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/bring-the-smell-of-nature-into-your-home-with-these-fragrant-flowers.htm">Bring The Smell Of Nature Into Your Home With These Fragrant Flowers</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A lot of money is spent in this country to reproduce fragrances for perfumes and air fresheners. The majority of these manufactured fragrances have alcohol and other additives that can actually irritate the membranes in your nose. Nature has done it the best and these are some of the most heavenly fragrances you’ll ever smell.</p>
<p>1) Hyacinth! This highly fragrant flower is actually a member of the lily family. Lily’s tend to grow much larger than the hyacinth but if you look closely at this flower you will see that the clusters of these blooms are tubular in shape just like the lily. Hyacinths have been a popular garden flower since the 17 hundreds because of the brilliance of there color (of every shade) and because of the incredible fragrance they have. Whether you have them planted out doors or in a pot in your home, this beautiful flower will brighten up any space and give off a constant heavenly fragrance, but, it is not overpowering. I just can’t imagine a perfume that smells any better than this. And men, instead of giving her some fresh cut flowers, try giving her a hyacinth plant. It will last longer and she can replant it again next year if she wants to put it in a garden.</p>
<p>2) The most fragrant flowers are the pure white Casa Blanca and the dark pink Stargazer lily. They are absolutely beautiful, but beware; the fragrance they give off is so strong, that, one bouquet of lilies can fill up an entire room. Don’t place them where you are going to sit for any length of time unless, that is what you want. They don’t do well in direct sunlight or drafts so place them in a more diffused lit area. If you replace the water every couple of days and add flower food plus a new snip of the ends, you’ll have a long lasting, beautiful fragrant arrangement.<br />
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3) Tuber roses are not actually roses. Like the hyacinth, a tuber rose has a stem with clusters of flowers that are all white. Once again, the smell is fantastic. I once picked off one little petal from the cluster and put it in my car. A few hours later I return to my vehicle and was pleasantly surprised at how wonderful it smelled. My children noticed it as well. It was the perfect natural air freshener.</p>
<p>4) Gardenias! These flowers that bloom on trees have a very short life after they are cut, but for the little time you have them in your home is worth it. Generally gardenias are made into a corsage for special occasions, but if you don’t want to do that, you can place the flower in a low dish of water and then just leave them alone to do their work.</p>
<p>5) There are some roses that have been bred for their fragrance such as the peach colored Oceana rose or the Sterling Silver rose (which is actually purple). Each of these have a light perfume to them. Any of the purple roses have a wonderful smell.</p>
<p>You can order any of these flowers from your local florist. If they don’t have them on hand you can ask them to order some for you. In most cases, if you place an order before noon, you should be able to pick them up later in the afternoon.</p>
<p>Rather than putting chemicals in the air, you may want to get some flowers now and again and enjoy nature’s perfume.</p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/bring-the-smell-of-nature-into-your-home-with-these-fragrant-flowers.htm">Bring The Smell Of Nature Into Your Home With These Fragrant Flowers</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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		<title>Boost Yield by Adding CO2 to Your Hydroponic Garden</title>
		<link>http://www.fataltraction.com/boost-yield-by-adding-co2-to-your-hydroponic-garden.htm</link>
		<comments>http://www.fataltraction.com/boost-yield-by-adding-co2-to-your-hydroponic-garden.htm#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 27 Feb 2010 18:14:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[boost hydroponic yield]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[carbon dioxide systems]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CO2 injectors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hydroponic growing]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.fataltraction.com/?p=401</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Low carbon dioxide (CO2) measures will limit your plant&#8217;s capacity to create energy through photosynthesis.  Crops can process a great deal more CO2 than is normally found in the surroundings.  One of the best ways to boost growth is to enhance the quantity of CO2 available to your crops with a CO2 system [...]<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/boost-yield-by-adding-co2-to-your-hydroponic-garden.htm">Boost Yield by Adding CO2 to Your Hydroponic Garden</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Low carbon dioxide (CO2) measures will limit your plant&#8217;s capacity to create energy through photosynthesis.  Crops can process a great deal more CO2 than is normally found in the surroundings.  One of the best ways to boost growth is to enhance the quantity of CO2 available to your crops with a CO2 system in your hydroponic garden.</p>
<p>How to increase your hydroponic garden&#8217;s carbon dioxide levels</p>
<p>Choosing a CO2 injector is the least pricy way to add CO2 to your hydroponic system&#8217;s climate. These commonly consist of a release,  Regulator, and a gauge to determine the amount of CO2 being inserted into the air.  Some of the more involved carbon dioxide injectors also include a timer to run the scheduling of the CO2 discharge.  CO2 refills are usually distributed independently and can be found at medical or eatery supply shops.</p>
<p>If you want to use your hydroponic garden for a lengthy time or for a number of crops, it may be cheaper to invest in a long-term CO2 production  olution. Carbon dioxide generators manufacture carbon dioxide through the heating of propane, natural gas, or any other carbon-based fuel base. They are appreciably more costly than the basic CO2 injector system, but you will eliminate the expense and effort of obtaining CO2 refills. Over a lengthy enough period of time, the investment in CO2 production ends up to be more economical than purchasing an injector and many refills.<br />
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For large-scale nurserymen (or those with extra funds to tinker around with), a CO2 gauge with regulator can mechanically maintain your hydroponic setup&#8217;s carbon dioxide levels at a selected point. These arrangements can be very pricy, 100s to thousands of dollars, but are a fine extra if you can find the money for it. There is normally an automatic CO2 dial connected<br />
to a regulator that is then associated to a CO2 producer to guarantee that the system continually is set at the user&#8217;s fixed CO2 amount. Some dials are marketed separately and are compatible with many varieties of regulators, allowing greater versatility when planning your system.</p>
<p>Whichever system is best for you, it is important to always consider your carbon dioxide system when initially desiging your hydroponic garden. Many gardeners will overlook this one part of their system and reduce their crop&#8217;s production before a single seed is even sprouted. Remember, a lack of any key facet required for photosynthesis will limit the plant&#8217;s development to the point of that deficit. If any one needed aspect is omitted, the full growing process will be impacted.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.fataltraction.com/boost-yield-by-adding-co2-to-your-hydroponic-garden.htm">Boost Yield by Adding CO2 to Your Hydroponic Garden</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.fataltraction.com">Fataltraction.com</a></p>
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