Gardens2Grow.com

Landscapers

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 22:06:55 +0000

Building Backyard Ponds - Big Business for Landscapers

As more and more people are starting to search for ways to improve their landscaping beyond the area of simply greener grass with shrubbery and flower beds, building backyard ponds is furnishing landscape companies with a whole new aspect of the business. Homeowners are beginning to ask about the price as well as the benefits of building backyard ponds since some landscapers are making the suggestion to those for whom they are presently providing services. The cost of building backyard ponds will change based on the design as well as the size of this additional attraction, and some homeowners might decide to save some hard earned money by installing it on their own.

Finding a Need and Filling It

Nonetheless, for fancy designs where electric power is needed away from the home, contractors are starting to expand on an additional aspect of the landscapers business. Adding building backyard ponds to their repertoire of enhancements for the outdoors, having the right equipment as well as expertise can create additional revenue.

About the author: Listen to Corbin Newlyn as he shares his insights as an expert author and an avid writer in the field of home and gardening. If you would like to learn more go to Ultra Violet Lights for Ponds advice and at Unique Ponds tips.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/building-backyard-ponds-big-business-for-landscapers-382644.html

Small Garden Design Ideas

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 14:03:16 +0000

The History Of Terracotta Pots

Over recent decades terracotta pots have become increasingly popular with those who wish to create a contemporary garden design. However, unbeknown to many people, terracotta has actually been used architecturally for many centuries.

The pots originate from their use throughout history for sculpture, pottery, bricks and roof shingles. In ancient times, the first clay sculptures were dried (baked) in the sun after being found and were then placed in the ashes of open hearths to harden. Kilns were then used, similar to those that are more traditionally used for pottery today.

The few people who know this information therefore like to use these pots as part of their contemporary garden design because they provide a sense of history and culture.

When people think of terracotta pots they normally think of something that they would normally find in their contemporary garden design. However, terracotta has been used for many centuries around the world for lots of different reasons.

About the author: Global Gardens offer a selection of garden pots to suit everyone's taste. contemporary garden design has all the information you need to purchase pots for your garden.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/the-history-of-terracotta-pots-246731.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
How can I get free design ideas for my small back garden?
My back garden is 5m x 8m and north facing so not much sun. The grass is full of moss and never gets much chance to dry out. I'd like decking or something more exciting than poor quality grass, any ideas on how to make the garden look bigger and better?
- ANSWER:
  Check local garden centres, gardening design books, the internet and you can ask for advice from your gardening groups it just depends what you really want to do with the space you have got
QUESTION:
how can I find out some ideas for a shingle and paving design small garden?
pictures would be ideal
- ANSWER:
  try the jewson website? also if you type into a search engine 'garden design' this should give you lots of places that offer garden designs. Most of them has pictures for inspiration. I done this only a few weeks ago. I cannot remember the websites that i looked at though. good luck
QUESTION:
Does anyone have links to well designed garden ideas?
I'm looking for links to good photographs, or even video links. I'm NOT interested in flower, or the extremely fancy herb gardens.

I'm interested in really practicle gardens that produce fruits, vegtables, berries, and possibly small orchards.

Living and working on my own farm leaves me little to no time to tour the gardens of other people. I'm always looking for good ideas I can incorperate into my own gardens and orchard.

So links with pictures, good drawings, or videos would be very much appreciated!
- ANSWER:
  Just go to the site listed below, they have really great set ups...
  
  I also like the idea of orchards kind of surrounding the garden, it sounds great to me....
  
  My mom just made a bunch of raised beds, and we are going to have a sort of 'island' of berries in on, then in the ones around it will mostly be used for vegtables (we go through more veggies then berries, but whatever is the perfect ratio for you if great!)
QUESTION:
pictures of gardn design ideas?
does any one know any sites that i can look at small back gardens, i love gardening and am always looking for inspiration
- ANSWER:
  Here's some:
  http://www.landscaping-ideas.net/landscaping-picture-idea.html
  
  Before & After pictures:(click arrow to cont. gallery pictures)
  http://www.landscaperi.com/gallery/base0.html
  Slide presentation:(Pics will scroll at the bottom of page without having to click on anything else)
  http://www.landscaperi.com/
  
  Landscaping design:
  http://justgardeners.com/hrsc/articles/art_landscape-design.html (This site contains a gallery of forum users's own pics too.)
  http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=landscape+design&rs=2&fr2=xpl&_adv_prop=image&ei=UTF-8&fr=ush-ans&vf=
  
  This is in a landscape design competition:
  
  Garden design winners
  http://landliving.com/articles/0000000139.aspx
  
  Backyard Gardens:
  http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=backyard+landscaping&rs=4&fr2=xpl&_adv_prop=image&ei=UTF-8&fr=ush-ans&vf=
  http://images.search.yahoo.com/search/images?p=backyard+landscaping+ideas&rs=0&_adv_prop=image&ei=UTF-8&fr=ush-ans&vf=
  Good luck! Hope this helps.
QUESTION:
What's the best way to design a perennial garden?
I have a large space - 26' - along the front of my house. I think I'm going to make the bed about 3 or 4' in width. What's the best way to lay out my garden? Should it be symmetrical or just bunched and more free (like a cottage garden)? I'm thinking of using Delphinium, Echinacea, Daylilies, Oriental Lilies, small shrub roses (2'x3') and then some small ornamental grasses and 2-4" border flowers in the front. I think I'm also going to put a weeping redbud on the left side. Do you have any ideas for how I should do this... I'm at a loss!!!
- ANSWER:
  Whether you design a formal garden (symmetrical) or informal garden (cottage style) is up to you. However, here are a few thing to consider. Mass together perennials of the same type in groups of three or five. Try to have more than one group of each species through the bed. This will help avoid the "one of everything" look. As a general rule, taller perennials (as well as the ornamental grasses) work well towards the back. When they're not in bloom they'll serve as a backdrop for the small plants. Try to plan the perennial bed so that there is something in bloom in a few different areas of the garden from spring to fall.
  
  Good luck and have fun.
  
  Here's an article I wrote for my site http://www.gardenlistings.com
  
  http://www.gardenlistings.com/Perennials.htm

Incoming search terms:

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Vegetable Gardening Layout

Sat, 27 Aug 2011 12:12:36 +0000

Your Vegetable Garden's Layout

As you start planting vegetable gardens it's important to know how the garden will be laid out. The layout of your own garden will depend 00004000 on what vegetable you want to grow, the planting space and if you would like to opt for companion planting. Here are some helpful tips on how to layout your own garden and start planting vegetables.

Sit Down and Plan

Before choosing a layout you need to decide on what type of vegetable you would like to grow and where you would like to plant them. Here are other factors you need to consider for your garden layout:

- Garden Space - Amount of Light in the Space - Drainage System - Soil Amendments - Type of Vegetable - Additional Space (if needed)

You should also think about whether you want to grow one type of vegetable like lettuce and tomatoes or if you want one type of vegetable with different kinds. Researching about the amount of light a certain vegetable needs and the amount of space that each need to be planted are both helpful facts to find out.

Make a list of vegetables you want to plant and find out the plant requirements of each and compare it with the garden space you have. This should give you an idea of where you want to plant certain vegetables in your space.

About the author: Learn about calendula flower, fast growing shrubs and other information at the Gardening Central site.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/hobbies-articles/your-vegetable-gardens-layout-1100681.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
What do I take into consideration when planning the layout of my vegetable garden?

I think that planting some beans next to other vegetables, like squash, will harm the productivity. I remember my parents and grandparents having similar rules when planning,I just don't remember exactly.Please help...
- ANSWER:
  First off you want to think about what you are going to plant and what space is required for them to grow properly. Also you must find out the sun requirements, water requirements, and how often you will need to feed.
  
  The best bet is to go to your local gardening center and speak with the out door garden associate.
QUESTION:
where can I find a "layout" for a vegetable garden that gives dimensions and what to plant?
- ANSWER:
  These may be what you're looking for. The last one even offers software.
  
  www.vegetablegardeners.com/garden-plans.
  www.your-vegetable-gardening-helper.com/vegetable-garden-layout.html
  ourgardengang.tripod.com/vegetablegarden.htm
  www.plangarden.com/design_garden/index.php
QUESTION:
What plants in a vegetable garden need to planted next to each other in order to thrive? Or does it matter?
I was given a plot layout years ago for a vegetable garden but of course I've missed placed it. I remember being told that you can't plant potatoes and onions together. Now I'm worried that I'm going to fail before I even really begin.
- ANSWER:
  just don't plant potatoes and onions together. Otherwise, just try to group plants together that grow similarly. Tomatoes and squash grow about the same, and beans and corn will grow in the same of conditions. As long as you aren't crowding drastically different species together, you'll do just fine. Ideally, melons, squash, beans, should be in the same part of the garden. Greens, lettuce, turnips, brussel sprouts, beets, cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower can be close to each other. Potatoes can have their own individual section as can onions.
QUESTION:
Vegetable gardening in Ontario?
Howdy, I've never had a vegetable garden and i dont know when to start. and when my layout should be.. Really i need a walkthrough because i have no idea what im doing. Can anyone help?
- ANSWER:
  Which Ontario? California, Oregon, Canada???
QUESTION:
Need help planning garden layout?
I'm planning on having a vegetable garden this year, and need to know the best place to plant so each variety gets the best sun/soil combo. I plan to make raised beds, but not sure with what material yet. Cheaper is better. The garden would include herbs, veggies, and root crops, pretty much anything I eat on a regular basis. Potatoes, peppers, onions, lettuce, corn, cucumbers, green beans, pumpkins, watermelon, etc. I have a large area to plant, but tall pine trees surrounding my yard that shade the area inconsistently. I live in Eastern WA, so the summers are super hot and the winters freezing. What crops should I plant next to each other? I heard growing the corn with the beans helps them to stabilize and reduces the need for trellis or stakes. Where should the corn and beans grow? To the North, East, South or West of the main beds? Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  Check out this webpage:
  
  http://www.quick-and-easy-vegetable-garden.com/planning-a-vegetable-garden.html

Plan Garden Layout

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 19:35:56 +0000

Plan Home Cottage Renovation Piping Layouts

No doubt about it, time spent when it comes to home or even cottage plumbing taking the time and effort to plan and measure rough plumbing is overall a good investment in your time, sanity and overall plumbing or heating renovation costs and construction reno budget. Its more than worth your time and effort when it comes to plumbing or heating pipes to plan piping layouts ahead of time and project.

Overall professional plumbers and contractors will state as a basic rule of the trade and of thumb that it is best to take line of sight tact and approaches that is to take the most direct route and avoid obstacles wherever possible. Its as if you take a direction that the crow would fly even though its in your house, cottage or other form of real estate property.

The supply pipes can usually be routed parallel to drywall but without slope. Make it a general rule that wherever and whenever possible to follow the adage to install existing fixtures back to back tied into the soil stack arrangement system. If you have a home that is two stories or more you can work out these plumbing fixtures piggyback style with the new fixtures on the floor below or directly above the current existing setups. However think about it and add the thought to your mental thought patterns that you might just have to totally separate vent pipes to the lower plumbing or heating fixtures.

About the author: Harold Stofman Furnasman Winnipeg CBC Air-Conditioning Furnace-man One Hour Heating CBC

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/plan-home-cottage-renovation-piping-layouts-5043039.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Need help planning garden layout?
I'm planning on having a vegetable garden this year, and need to know the best place to plant so each variety gets the best sun/soil combo. I plan to make raised beds, but not sure with what material yet. Cheaper is better. The garden would include herbs, veggies, and root crops, pretty much anything I eat on a regular basis. Potatoes, peppers, onions, lettuce, corn, cucumbers, green beans, pumpkins, watermelon, etc. I have a large area to plant, but tall pine trees surrounding my yard that shade the area inconsistently. I live in Eastern WA, so the summers are super hot and the winters freezing. What crops should I plant next to each other? I heard growing the corn with the beans helps them to stabilize and reduces the need for trellis or stakes. Where should the corn and beans grow? To the North, East, South or West of the main beds? Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  Check out this webpage:
  
  http://www.quick-and-easy-vegetable-garden.com/planning-a-vegetable-garden.html
QUESTION:
What do I take into consideration when planning the layout of my vegetable garden?

I think that planting some beans next to other vegetables, like squash, will harm the productivity. I remember my parents and grandparents having similar rules when planning,I just don't remember exactly.Please help...
- ANSWER:
  First off you want to think about what you are going to plant and what space is required for them to grow properly. Also you must find out the sun requirements, water requirements, and how often you will need to feed.
  
  The best bet is to go to your local gardening center and speak with the out door garden associate.
QUESTION:
Garden plans / layouts...good sources?
Hi...I'm wanting to do my flower garden a little different this year, and I was wondering where I could find some good layout pictures and ideas? Like a website,or a magazine,or just any ideas you may have. I have a veggie garden too, so any ideas for that are welcome as well
Thanks in advance!
- ANSWER:
  Just google "free garden designs" you will get a big selection to chose from. both flower, veg and mixed garden schemes.
  
  Beulah
QUESTION:
Falkirk council garden problem?
Hello folks, my partner posted a question on my behalf and it doesnt come across clear lol
The problem is i live in an upper four in a block rented from the council and when i viewed and accepted the house i was told my garden was the at the side of the house and we have a back garden too,, my neighbour below has the front garden and a back garden, we have stayed in our flat for 2 years and our neighbour has always cut our grass, which is is good it helps keep it nice, but the thing is since i have stayed here i have always maintained my garden, i cut the grass 4weeks ago and my neighbour came out 4 days after me and cut it again, knowing clearly it didnt need it, but over the past two years her 17 year old son and his friends every summer in the nice weather, play football in the front garden which is situated below my livingroom window and the ball is kicked so hard of the property and our car thats parked out on the street, its is getting so unbearable for us, our daughter is 2 years old and i want to sit outside in the side garden to let her play and i cant incase we get hurt. I have no problems with the boys playing if they would play nicely and respect others. I have spoke to him and his mother and it goes in one ear and out the other, and when she does tell him off he ignores her too. So i reported the problem to my councillor to help me, and he wrote to the council to get a plan of the garden layout sent to us because recently the side garden had been given to the downstairs tenants in the area ! but each house is different, and if the layout said we had the side garden then a layout would be sent to my neighbour too, so therefore i have the right to tell her to stay off my garden. But instead of sending me a plan layout, they sent out the local neighbourhood officer to tell us what belonged to who ! but she didnt come to speak to us first, she spoke to our neighbour downstairs first before coming to us, and this has opened an even bigger can of worms than before. The neighbourhood officer said that we only have the back garden and the neighbour who stays below us has the side garden, i said i felt that was unfair, as when we signed our tenancy they told us that belonged to us, she said it belongs to them because they maintained the garden before we moved into our flat as the previous tenant didnt look after it, and i feel this is all wrong as i have been looking after it for the last 2 years and now they are saying it belongs to my neighbour just because she cut the grass for so many years before we moved into our house. How does the council know that she maintained it. its only her word. I dont know how to sort this, she is a busy body and interferes in everything from what goes into the blue and green wheelie bin to what rubbish is in your bins !!
Can anyone tell me if they feel the side garden should belong to me ? i feel because the previous tenant failed to keep the garden they have took it from me because it was my neighbour who used to look after it. I had plans for my house to buy it a build a driveway through permission obviously.
- ANSWER:
  Move To TEXAS we are free from councils that rob you of your independent spirit and force you to conform
  MY GOD WOMAN where is your rebellious spirit
QUESTION:
Buying garden plans?
Has anyone bought garden plans through mail? It's the kind where you order a garden layout and it comes with the plants, planting instructions and a planting diagram. I was wondering if anyone has tried doing this and how well the garden performed. Thanks!
- ANSWER:
  dont buy it, go to your local plant nursery and ask them when you are looking at plants, they will be more than happy to help you select a good variety of plants,just have fun. gardens are a place to relax.

Incoming search terms:

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ROUGH COTTAGE

Free Garden Layout Software

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 15:58:57 +0000

Model Train Layouts Review - Model Train Layouts Ebook Ideas Tips Answers

Interested In Building Model Train Layouts? Get All the Clever Model Train Surroundings Ideas You will Want... Saving You Time And Money....To Aid You Strategy And Build YOUR Really Personal Model Train Layout ... Download Now!

You have probably observed some amazing model train layouts at train shows and wondered how you can actually learn the exact same skills?

Imagine if you might create your own "amazingly realistic" model train scenery to impress everybody who sees it. Would not it be fantastic if you may take all of the guesswork from planning and building the perfect model railroad... to fit the room you've got available.

About the author: Alice Perikly has been writing articles online for about 2 years now in a printing company. For years, she makes it a point to be of assistance to public on how to succeed in marketing their businesses through their print materials...

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/model-train-layouts-review-model-train-layouts-ebook-ideas-tips-answers-3914349.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Do you use a computer for garden layout? What garden design software do you use?
I'm especially interested in cheap or free garden design software, or a good online garden design site.
I actually prefer to design on paper, but I get a lot of questions from people asking about design software, which I know nothing about. Yet another good reason to be part of Yahoo Answers!
Thanks for your thoughtful responses!
- ANSWER:
  Landscape design is merely an avocation for me and I haven't designed a garden for anyone but myself in a couple years. When I do I've always used bubble sketches and water colors.
  This Christmas however I was given this software.
  http://landscaping-software-review.toptenreviews.com/landscape-deck-patio-designer-review.html
  I've been playing with it using my old plans and photos to compare my original plantings and what the computer thinks they should look like at maturity.
  Evidently the computer is a little more optimistic about my Z4 growing conditions than the plants are.
  I think in your line of work it could be helpful but I'll stick to my sketches.
  
  RScott
QUESTION:
Does anybody know any free home design software?
I'm looking for a programme to design the layout of a house and garden
- ANSWER:
  I have found some of them for free download and I think they don't have a limit of time to use but some of them need you to be sign up.
  These are sites:
  http://www.artifice.com/free/dw_lite.html
  
  http://www.smartdraw.com/specials/homedesign.asp
  
  http://www.topshareware.com/free-3d-home-design-software/downloads/1.htm
  
  http://www.visualsupercomputing.com/
  
  Good luck and have a beautiful home

Garden Plans

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 13:39:39 +0000

Landscape Gardening Entry Garden Plans - 4 Musts For Beginners

This particular article will dwell on the reasons why there is a need to develop landscape gardening entry garden plans.

First Impressions

In most cases, if not all, people would depend on their first impressions in determining their attitude towards something or someone. This is actually also applicable in approaching a building or a house. To make sure that the first impressions of other would be positive, it would be helpful to come up with landscape gardening entry garden plans. In doing so, the walkway, the flowerbed, the driveway, and the grass should be arranged into something that would promote a pleasing response to others.

Welcome, Visitor

In every entryway, sending the proper message is a crucial thing. Thus, the role of landscape gardening entry plans could be realized on this part. Do not worry if the area that you have is too small or is just next to your own driveway. The planning phase of entry landscaping could help a lot on this. In any situation, landscaping the entryways of your home is important since serve as a welcoming gesture to the person who would walk on the area.

Getting Attention

The goals of landscape gardening entry garden plans could be summed up into two points:

About the author: Abhishek is an avid Gardening enthusiast and he has got some great Gardening Secrets up his sleeves! Download his FREE 57 Pages Ebook, "Your Garden - Neighbor's Envy, Owner's Pride!" from his website http://www.Gardening-Master.com/762/index.htm . Only limited Free Copies available.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/landscape-gardening-entry-garden-plans-4-musts-for-beginners-753801.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
Where to Find Garden Plans or Customize Myself Online?
Im looking to do some garden landscaping & in need of some websites that I can maximize every bit of space that I have.

Im start'g on the side yard 1st & have put in my 2 trees & some sod & put in a drip system. But now I need to frame the area around the sod & my trees & in between the 2 (roughly 26'x22').
But not sure where to put the flowers. I intend to use a total of 30+ varieties as this will be my Master Garden.

Is there a website that will let me create this on my own by color? Im only using shades of Blues, Pinks, & Purples and White and a Purple Alyssum as a ground cover.

Or any websites that could/would show me layouts that have been sketched & used to give me some ideas?

Im think'g of mixing a Mediterranean Garden, a Country Garden, & Arizona Native Garden for my Master Garden.
- ANSWER:
  WTF every happend to paper and pencil -
  Draw the thing out - map out your own paths, plants and features - don't limit yourself to what's in a web tool.
  
  + Don't forget to draw the walls and do a vertical plan for climbers, creepers, bamboos and cover - think colour too.
  
  You need books -
  
  Get the pots and features you want and arrange them in the space - real space - work out paths and bushes - then draw it up.
QUESTION:
Where can I find beautiful designs of garden storage shed plans?
I have a client who's looking for some designs for her garden shed. I want to see some remarkable shed plans that I can choose from to show to my client.
- ANSWER:
  Its a really great site. They offer you 12000 shed plans! you can easily choose the best for you.
QUESTION:
Where can I find free and good garden plans for a shade garden?
- ANSWER:
  FREE??!! Yikes ... the only way to do it for free is to find people who have gardens with the same kind of shade as you and get cuttings. Remember that there are different kinds of shade ... Here's some advice from a website:
  
  Different plants require different degrees of shade ranging from dense shade to dappled or partial shade. You need to study and understand what kind of light you have to achieve the optimum conditions for what you want to grow. You need to also consider that a plant which needs full, dense shade to survive the summer in a hot southern state will do just fine in partial shade in a cooler northern location. Instead of trying to change existing conditions, match your plants to the site.
QUESTION:
Where can I find free landscape and garden plans for front and backyards?

What I am asking for is an actualy landscape layout or design that describes which plants go where, ect.
- ANSWER:
  Check around with friends and neighbors. Most perennials need to be divided fairly regularly, I'm sure they'd be more than willing to give you divisions of theirs. Same for ornamental grasses. Maybe you can collect some seeds from their gardens too.
QUESTION:
What are the best raised bed garden plans?
- ANSWER:
  This is a great page. Step by step instructions and lots more.
  
  http://www.thegardenhelper.com/bed~const.html

Backyard Landscaping

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 10:20:05 +0000

Backyard Landscaping Ideas To Make A Difference In Your Home

A home backyard is a special place. It is close to your heart. It is a private place. Unlike a front yard of the house a backyard is free of any artificial and injected rules of design. What I mean is it's ok to do mistakes in a backyard. It's your own playground.

You can experiment a lot in this place. If you are a do-it-yourself kind of person then you must have tried growing a few plants in this place and may be failed a few times. But that's what it makes a backyard so special.

The main function of a backyard is to "relax". So while designing a garden in this areas never compromise on your emotions. Try various alternatives of design, layout, flowerbeds, shrubs, etc. while designing a garden. Always remember that a garden does not always means planting a few plants by boundary and laying out expensive lawn.

There is much more to landscaping than just planting plants. So while designing garden look inside yourself as a person before. the bottom line to success of any space whether interior or exterior is "comfort" of you and your family members.

Why do homes have a backyard? According to my perception it is just provision for you and the family to enjoy the together moments when you don't want to move in the outskirts of the city by traveling a distance. It is a miniature model of the countryside woods you would otherwise visit, when you are on vacation.

So plan accordingly by keeping this in mind. If the backyard is a small space you will have to give a lot of attention to detailing while the execution of the garden. Detailing such as planned spaces, pathways, exterior lighting.

One good idea is to create an island of flowerbeds to attract butterflies, so that it remains a focal attraction and your guests and friends will never forget it. In case of a large backyard small private spaces can be arranged that can be used to create a campfire or a place surrounded by shrubs overlooking the outside surroundings. Such private spaces can be used to do paintings or a place for the kids to play hide and seek. Pathways with width of approx. 3 to 5 feet can be used for circulation and your kids can also use them as bicycle tracks.

These pathways can be easily enhanced using artificial external lighting during night time. A small fishpond with a fountain can create some good and cool atmosphere. Of course what you have read here are not the only possibilities in designing. Actually possibilities are endless, but I have just given you a few starting points that you can go ahead and expand using your own imagination. Just remember what I said earlier always keep YOU in the focus while designing and it will be a great place to relax with your family.

About the author: Want more FREE backyard landscaping ideas? Visit my website http://www.landscapingdatabase.com to learn some great tips on various aspects of landscaping for your home garden.

Source: http://www.isnare.com/?aid=61412&ca=Gardening

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
I need some backyard landscaping designs?
I need some backyard landscaping designs to get ideas for my own yard. Is there a website where I can find these? Or if you can send me the design or your backyard it would be appreciated. I live in arizona and have a fairly big backyard any ideas (ie. what plants, trees rocks, grass, stone walkways etc.) thanks
- ANSWER:
  I was looking for something else and came acrossed a website that offers tips on finding good landscape software. The sidebar to the left on the site shows available software. Here it is. Hope it helps!
  
  www.landscape-america.com/landscape-design-software.html
QUESTION:
Backyard landscaping... how much will it cost to put in some concrete and grass?
I have a 25' X 66' backyard that I'll need to landscape. I think I'll want a concrete patio somewhere around 10' x 12' feet at the sliding glass door. A 1' stuccoed retaining wall about 2' from the back fence, and grass every where else. What do you think it will to do each a) if I have someone do it, and b) if I am patient and do it myself?
- ANSWER:
  I would have the contractor do the cement work, you can do it yourself a little cheaper, but for a pad that size there are a lot of things that can go wrong. At least if the contractor screws it up, he is on the hook to fix it.
  
  The grass part all depends on what type of grass, if you start from seed or go with sod. Seed is definately cheaper ( .00 to 0.00 depending on the type you use) sod is easier, and is fully grown when you buy it. However it will cost alot more than seed.
QUESTION:
What would be some great sites for backyard landscaping ideas?
I have a smaller back yard but we have this Mound that goes up to the back brick wall and underneath the mound is all concrete so I can't dig into it. Its almost the full length of our backyard.

Any thoughts as to what to do with it?
It is concrete underneath but dirt on top.
- ANSWER:
  There are quite a few sites that will give you good ideas for your backyard. Try:
  http://www.myidealgarden.com/ or
  http://www.the-landscape-design-site.com/backyardlandscaping.html
  I found those two had great ideas, but there are a lot more if you want to check. Just Google 'backyard landscape designs' for a big list.
  
  As far as your concrete problem goes, I have an idea, but it depends on where you live. If the conditions are ok, succulents would be a good choice, as the roots are shallow and they require very little care and are very easy to grow. Try this site and see what you think:
  http://www.wildgingerfarm.com/SucculentGarden.htm
QUESTION:
What would it cost to install backyard landscaping?
I would like a rough estimate on installing the following in the backyard of a 50x115 foot lot:

Grass
A few trees/shrubs
BBQ
- ANSWER:
  You can do it for next to nothing if you do it yourself, and buy small plants and wait for them to grow into their spots. If you want big plants now, it'll be about 5-10 times as much outlay for the plant material.
  
  Seeding grass is a fraction of the cost of laying sod. So again, if you need instant gratification, it'll cost more.
  
  Hardscaping is the most expensive - cost depends on what you want.
QUESTION:
Backyard Landscaping Ideas & Custom Patio Design?
Looking for some inspirational landscaping ideas for the backyard.
- ANSWER:
  A good backyard landscaping idea is to use evergreens. They will add a stately nature to the feel of your home while keeping it welcoming and warm. Many people like to use deciduous trees in the yard but a better idea is to use evergreens. Evergreens give the yard the structure and stability it needs for a good backyard landscaping idea and design.
  
  Another good backyard landscaping idea is to use hardscape. This is the use of things like rocks, fences and walls. These can make your yard look very interesting during all of the seasons. You can have climbing plants on it in the summer & spring and trees around it that will look great in winter.

Landscaping Ideas For Front Yard

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 10:05:11 +0000

Landscaping Ideas for your Bungalow

In keeping with small yards, the first bungalow landscaping often included plants that were useful as well as attractive such as dwarf fruit trees. They used currants and blueberries as hedges or border plants and arbors and trellises to support grapes and scarlet runner beans as well as roses. You might try ornamental vegetables like 'Rainbow' chard or a handsome herb like curled parsley. If you are the kind of person that likes things to be kept simple, you will enjoy bungalow landscaping. Bungalow landscaping can be kept as simple as you would like. After all, what you want is for your bungalow to look tidy!

You just purchased a bungalow, and as such you would like to have it landscaped. You have decided that you would like to landscape it yourself. However, your yard is small, so you are not sure how to go about doing bungalow landscaping. Thus, what you need is bungalow landscaping ideas.

About Bungalow Landscaping

The first thing you need to consider is the dimension of your yard. Wherever you have the most room is where you should start with your bungalow landscaping. If you have more room at the front of your house, consider using flowers.

You might prefer flowery bushes to actual flowers, but the reality is that since your bungalow is small you do not want the bushes to get too big, and thus become a problem to maintain. Thus, it is best to keep it simple with flowers.

About the author:

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/gardening-articles/landscaping-ideas-for-your-bungalow-124152.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
front yard landscaping ideas?
I have a house with a huge front yard. I would like to create a relaxing yard with fruit trees and a fountain (since my backyard is pretty small.) I know I have to wall it off. any good ideas or websites with good ideas that anyone would recommend? I want the wall to look good too from both sides. Where can I get good landscaping ideas and how do i know who to hire for this job?
- ANSWER:
  Who to hire for the job ? That is something you have to ask locally. Ask your neighbors, friends, family for recommendations. Then maybe just from driving around if you see work you like you can inquire who did the work. If you want design ideas the the gardenweb forum may give you some help.
  http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/design/
  Then here are some other sites with designs.
  http://www.lotf.com/landscapes/landscapes.htm
  http://www.the-landscape-design-site.com/gardenstyles/
  http://landscaping.about.com/od/galleryoflandscapephotos/ig/landscaping-pictures/
QUESTION:
I need some ideas for landscaping my front yard which is a steep slope.?
I live in Nova Scotia and the soil is basically clay. My property is 1.5 acres with the house sitting on top of a hill 265 feet from the road. The driveway starts on the left and cuts across the slope to the right and ends in a 3 car turnabout beside the house. The yard is divided into an upper left portion,the driveway, then the lower right portion. On the upper left portion of the yard I installed landscape fabric and 4 inch rock to solve the erosion problem. The landscape is essentially a clean slate, no grass,gets full sun. The only thing I did was plant rugosa roses in the berm on the lower right portion of the yard that runs from the turnabout to the road. I will email pics to give you a better idea of what it looks like. I'd like some ideas for plants,where to put sod, flower beds,trees,retaining walls, etc. I did hire a landscape architect but got burnt and lost a lot of money.
- ANSWER:
  Ornamental grasses are attractive, large and low maintenance plants that like full sun. Large rocks look nice and are maintenance free. I would skip the sod, to much work to mow.
QUESTION:
Any ideas for landscaping a shaded slope in my front yard?
I have tall oaks on the side of the street that keep the slope of my front yard in partial shade. It is a pain to mow on that slope. I need ideas on low maintenance landscaping of that shaded slope. What can I plant there to make it look nice. We are on a busy road so lots of people see our front yard.
- ANSWER:
  Terrace it and plant ivy.
QUESTION:
Need ideas for garden beds, planter boxes or whatever might look nice for my front yard.?
I need some ideas for landscaping my front yard. The yard gets full sun,the soil is a poor draining clay and it gets a lot of wind. I have pics posted at http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w173/calista77/100_1036.jpg
and http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w173/calista77/100_0639.jpg to give you a better idea as to what I have to work with. I'm looking for plants that will grow well in my type of soil and that thrive in Nova Scotia, preferrably perennials. The blue rock in picture #1 is necessary for drainage because we live on top of a hill. I really hate the look of the blue rock but nothing can really be done with it. There is a layer of contractor grade landscaping fabric underneath the rock to prevent weeds from cropping up. If anyone has any ideas to cammoflauge the rocks I'm all ears.
- ANSWER:
  Drive around and look at other homes to see what you like. Take pictures from a distance so you see the entire front of the house and also take close ups of the plants. Ask the owner's permission to take photos. Most people are flattered that you think their yard is beautiful, and I've never been denied permission. You can ask the owner for plant names and/or you can go to the nursery with the photos to identify plants that do well in your area.
  
  Here's a website with lots of ideas about designing your own landscaping.
  
  http://free.nursery-plants.info/
  
  Select Landscaping Tips and Design Ideas from the menu on the left.
  
  Good luck and enjoy your new home.
QUESTION:
Looking for a website with landscaping ideas?
I am looking for a website that shows landscaping ideas for "normal" everyday homes , seems like they are all these huge fabulous homes owned by rich people which I am not,lol I own a brick ranch and am looking to re-landscape the front yard. Any ideas would be much appreciated!
- ANSWER:
  Try this place, http://www.landscapingideasonline.com/ I found it when I was looking for some garden gnomes, which I think are awesome to landscape with. I did end up using a couple of the ideas from that website in the placement of the gnomes that I found at www.shadygnomes.com but there are tons of pictures to look though, so get ready and good luck.

Cottage Garden Layout

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 09:27:49 +0000

Plan Home Cottage Renovation Piping Layouts

About the author: Harold Stofman Furnasman Winnipeg CBC Air-Conditioning Furnace-man One Hour Heating CBC

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/plan-home-cottage-renovation-piping-layouts-5043039.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
which are the best lights for a garden path/steps?
I have changed the layout of a terraced cottage garden and added wide sloping steps (timber tread & gravel)
there are three sets of steps form the top, through the middle terrace and to the lowest level. I would like to add solar path lights alongside the steps, and I am wrecked by indecision, the pebble/rock shaped ones here http://www.thesolarcentre.co.uk/products/Solar_Garden_Rock_Light-97-7.html seem the obvious choice. However, I also love the idea of 'lanterns' on the ground along the path http://www.amazon.co.uk/Flickering-Candle-Lanterns-Garden-Lights/dp/B0011BPH4G/ref=sr_1_12?s=outdoors&ie=UTF8&qid=1297114100&sr=1-12 -only worried they will look odd in a cottage garden.
I have only seen 'images' of both samples, so it is difficult to decide. Please help!
@decant fode, thanks, but question above is about 'style'
- ANSWER:
  White or yellow are the best to use in garden.
  It looks fresh and natural
QUESTION:
I am a new gardener (in zone 9/9a)?
I want a specific look for my back yard. Does anyone know what the "English/Wildflower Meadow" sod or carpet roll is? Or is there such a thing?? I thought I saw it featured in a magazine once before.

Also, I want to use some plants to create a pretty cottage garden plan, but so far people are making me think I HAVE to use tropical plants!
http://content5.videojug.com/5d/5d18571b-3a94-c209-0324-ff0008c99cf8/an-introduction-to-cottage-gardens.jpg
http://furryfriendcare.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/cottage-gardens-06.226174529_std.jpg

Any tips and ideas, layout advice would be great. I know some basic gardening skills...this will just be my first real garden.
- ANSWER:
  An English cottage garden is informal, it looks like nature planned it. Check out this site:
  
  http://www.doityourself.com/stry/creatingenglishgarden
QUESTION:
Whats going on? annalyse my subconscious?
I dream about water all the time but my dreams are totally off the wall bizzare...

Dream 1) I'm in a foreign super market, I see my diseased grandmother standing in front of me. She doesn't say anything just stares straight ahead so I pick her up and put her in my trolley. I take her back to this really high up cottage, its dark inside but the layout is like someones living room. Grandmother does to the window points and then goes and sits in a rocking chair. I go to the window and I can see the sea and all of a sudden a huge wave comes towards the window - its absolutely terrifying! Dream ends.

Dream 2) I'm back in the high up cottage from dream 1, my husband walks through the door and I get really angry with him and tell him I'm taking the kids and leaving him for having an affair with my sister. But we have no kids and my sister is happily married as are we. I then storm out the door with the children (who's faces I can't see) I get in a huge land rover and start driving up the mountain. I look out my right window and I see a water park and suddenly my car turns into a log flume but it continues to climb the mountain, and I feel a lot happier -im having fun.

Dream 3) I'm at my parents house (where I grew up) and me, my sisters and my parents are all standing in a line at the bottom of the garden staring at the house. A black horse gallops by behind our line and my dad says "are you ready? Are u ready??! Here it comes!" And this huge wave come crashing over the house towards us and we all just stand t
here - again its terrifying and I normally wake up as it sweeps us away.

Dream 4) re-occuring dream for the last 2 years - I get on a plane, half way through the journey the plane starts to shake, people are falling our, bits are breaking off and then we crash into the sea. Everyone is screaming and there's smoke and debris everywhere, and me and a friend swim to an island and then I wake up
- ANSWER:
  Thanks for your other response under dream interpretation.
  
  I gave Jac the Hat a thumbs up vote because those are good answers. I'm going to add to #4 because recurring dreams deserve extra attention.
  
  So why would your dreaming mind choose an airplane for a setting (rather than a car or a train, for example). Well, one reason is because planes can take off and fly as well as crash. One common interpretation for a plane in a dream is that it represents an idea, because of the expressions we have relating ideas to planes "Will this idea take off", "Will this idea fly?", and also because ideas are up in the air, not grounded (until they are implemented in reality).
  
  Plane=idea may not fit for you, but try other things in your life that can take off, fly and crash. Plane=project may also not fit, because (like the idea) one crash usually does it (i.e. it would tend not to recurr). How about a relationship - that does seem to be able to repeatedly crash (and take-off, and fly). Your use of the words "breaking off", and the turbulence the plane experiences seem to fit that one too. Or, is there anything else in your life that can be described as being able to take off, fly, and crash, and it may also have the attribute of not being grounded. Only you can decide what it is. It would be something that has been in your life (or bothering you, at least) for the last 2 years.
  
  People falling out of the plane are parts of your own personality as casualties. Crashing into the sea (I assume it is a rough sea) - a sea of turmoil, emotionally speaking.
  
  Swimming to an island - represents some isolation. You have one friend (really representing part of yourself) left with you. If that is a friend you know, and you can describe a few of her main characteristics, then the characteristics she has are your survival instincts.
  
  If you have what the plane represents figured out, you are well on your way to doing something about it. For this reason, figuring out the meaning alone might make the recurring dream stop. Whether the recurring dream stops or not, it is good to do something about the crashing issue - that is what your subconcious is "expecting" when it keeps giving you this dream.
  -----------------------
  I feel the need to add: dreams are very very rarely (in my opinion) predictive, or indicative of what has to be, they aren't even necessarily accurate about what really is. Rather, they are expert at telling you how you feel. What you choose to do, and therefore what can or will be, is separate.
QUESTION:
Very weird dreams....any good interpretations?!?
I dream about water all the time but my dreams are totally off the wall bizzare...

Dream 1) I'm in a foreign super market, I see my diseased grandmother standing in front of me. She doesn't say anything just stares straight ahead so I pick her up and put her in my trolley. I take her back to this really high up cottage, its dark inside but the layout is like someones living room. Grandmother does to the window points and then goes and sits in a rocking chair. I go to the window and I can see the sea and all of a sudden a huge wave comes towards the window - its absolutely terrifying! Dream ends.

Dream 2) I'm back in the high up cottage from dream 1, my husband walks through the door and I get really angry with him and tell him I'm taking the kids and leaving him for having an affair with my sister. But we have no kids and my sister is happily married as are we. I then storm out the door with the children (who's faces I can't see) I get in a huge land rover and start driving up the mountain. I look out my right window and I see a water park and suddenly my car turns into a log flume but it continues to climb the mountain, and I feel a lot happier -im having fun.

Dream 3) I'm at my parents house (where I grew up) and me, my sisters and my parents are all standing in a line at the bottom of the garden staring at the house. A black horse gallops by behind our line and my dad says "are you ready? Are u ready??! Here it comes!" And this huge wave come crashing over the house towards us and we all just stand there - again its terrifying and I normally wake up as it sweeps us away.

Dream 4) re-occuring dream for the last 2 years - I get on a plane, half way through the journey the plane starts to shake, people are falling our, bits are breaking off and then we crash into the sea. Everyone is screaming and there's smoke and debris everywhere, and me and a friend swim to an island and then I wake up...

What do all these things mean?? Or am I just going crazy? Lol!
- ANSWER:
  No, you're not going crazy. There is a lot of good stuff there. It might be better to (also) post your dreams separately. If you do post 2, 3 and 4 separately, and give me feedback on this interpretation of just dream 1, I'll take a crack at those others. (I have found that yahoo answers has a limit on the length of a reply post - I can't do justice to all 4 dreams in one answer; even if I add to the answer there is a limit that would cut me short).
  
  Water is a regular theme for dreams here on yahoo answers (and elsewhere, I am sure). It often represents emotions, because we have so many emotional expressions using water, for example 'wave of emotion", "tide of emotion", "flood of emotion", "troubled waters" "sea of tranquility", "feelings that run deep" - not necessarily all applying to your dream, just examples of why water=emotion often.
  
  So, an overwhelming wave of water represents an emotion that is hard to handle, overwhelming. It is difficult for anyone to say from the dream whether it is a specific emotion the wave might represent, or just being emotional in general.
  
  Your diseased grandmother seems unemotional to me - that tends to point to emotion being the right interpretation for the water because dreams often paint contrasts to highlight the issue. I assume that she is diseased in the dream, and I would interpret that as a "dis-ease" (i.e. uneasiness, dreams seem to love puns) that you (not your grandmother) has. She is in your dream because of something in you; the dream is all about you. A grandmother would also tend to represent wisdom (your own wisdom, that you have in yourself), and so this means that the wise part of yourself is trying to teach you something about emotion, pointing to it. Her disease could also mean that the wise part of yourself is the part that is either uneasy, not completely healthy, or both.
  
  The wave coming right through the front window would tend to indicate an emotional issue that is public (back yard would indicate something more private, not visible to others).
  
  If this dream happened some time ago, you may not remember what preceeded it in waking life. But, the emotional issue (or threat) would tend to have come up a day or two before the dream, if you happen to have it dated and remember what was going on then.
  
  Oh - a supermarket often represents choices (because there are so many), so this initial setting could be saying the the many choices you are facing are a backdrop, or introduction, to the emotion issue.
  
  So, what do you think?
  
  You may have to let me know through the contact link on my profile if and when you re-post the other dreams, because I might miss them.

Incoming search terms:

colorado vegetable garden layout
layout of cottage gardens

Backyard Ideas

Fri, 26 Aug 2011 08:08:48 +0000

Backyard Ideas: Convert Your Old Shed Into Your Favorite Getaway

Don't get rid of that eye sore of a shed that has taken over the back corner of your backyard. Stop being embarrassed every time you have guest over because no matter how nice the rest of your yard is, that rust bucket keep screaming "look at me, look at me." Well, it is time you give visitors to your home a good reason to look. In just one weekend you will have created a backyard oasis that not even you will be able to resist. Have I convinced you to give that large piece of garden sculpture a chance at a new life? Good. Now let's get started.

One word of advice, GET AN EARLY START! This is without a doubt a weekend project. The earlier in the day you start, the better time management you will have.

Get rid of the old and make way for the new:
The first thing on the agenda to do is clean out that old shed. Get rid of everything. You need to start with a clean slate. The best way to tackle this task is to find a new home for these items and instead of stock piling everything over to the side, go ahead and place them in their new permanent storage location. This will prevent you from having to do a lot of extra work later on. Besides, when you finish creating your new backyard getaway, you don't want your old storage items blocking your view.

Purchase all the items you will need:
Unfortunately, this project will cost you a little money. But, to your surprise, you can accomplish your goals for under 0 depending on how many of these items you already have.

1) You are going to have to paint the shed in order to breathe new life into it. Buy a gallon of GOOD primer and a gallon of EXCELLENT exterior paint. The qualities of these two items are vital for establishing longevity of your paint job. This is not the area where you want to try a save a few bucks. If you do it right today, your shed will still look like a great backyard getaway and be just as inviting fifteen years from now.

Be careful to purchase paint that the manufacturer has created specifically for the material your shed is made from. If your shed is made from metal, you will need a paint designed to cover metal. If your shed is made from wood, you will need a paint designed to cover wood. No matter what your shed is made from, you will need to purchase exterior paint and not paint created for interior surfaces.

This is the time to choose a bright color to paint your shed. Choose a color that will draw the eye of your guest to the shed. Do not be afraid to use color. Your best option is to pick a color that will contrast against the color of your planting material.

2) Purchase 6 LARGE potted plants. These will be used to create a lush garden appeal as well as draw the eye of the visitor to your shed. Try and purchase plants that are, or will be in a very short amount of time, at least five feet tall (including the pot). They should have a look of maturity, be lush and full in nature, and very healthy. DO NOT purchase trees. They will grow to be too tall and eventually overpower the space. You want to create something that is at eye level. Some suggestions are flowering plants or palms.

About the author: Shirley Kelly is the owner of The Candle Lantern Shop where she sells candles, candle lanterns, incense, oils and more. Shirley has been in the interior design business for more than 10 years. Her passions are interior design and gardening. She enjoys sharing home and garden ideas with others on her blog. To read more of her ideas or to share your own home and garden tips, please visit her Home and Garden Ideas Blog She would love to hear from you.

Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/backyard-ideas-convert-your-old-shed-into-your-favorite-getaway-1063990.html

Frequently Asked Questions

QUESTION:
backyard ideas?
I want a medatrainan feel in my backyard. Im going to spay paint some cool wrought iron stuff I have black and also redo my garden chairs and table over with black spray paint and add new chair pillows in reds and orangs. Any other ideas for plants or thing I can use around the house to recycle. Please not the old toilet trick of planting a plant in it. Thanks for any info on the cheap.
- ANSWER:
  You can take 2 large, Clay flower pots, & butt the small ends tog & connect them with a large bolt/screw; then either plant a plant in the top, or else put a piece of glass or wood over the top, to make a small table.
QUESTION:
What are some good backyard camping ideas for kids ages 12-14?
I am 12 years old and this summer I am going to have a backyard campout with a couple friends, but I don't really know any good ideas of stuff to do or things to eat (besides smores and some other candy/sweet stuff) Please reply with awesome ideas!
- ANSWER:
  Tell ghost stories by taking turns reading some scary ones, play poker with M&Ms, set up a home made TP tent out of tree stakes and blankets, build a club house out of ply wood, watch the stars with a telescope, set out food for possums.....
  
  Boy I wish I was 12 again...
QUESTION:
I need to design/install a motion-sensor sprinkler system to keep my cats in their own backyard. Ideas?
ScareCrow from Contech keeps animals out with a wide spray, too wide, and that would prevent my cats from enjoying their own yard. I just need to route the sprinklers around the perimetry of the wooden privacy fence so when the motion sensor(s) detect them approaching the fence they will get dowsed at about 3 to 4 ft in from the fence and go back into the yard and stay home. I have contacted irrigation companies here in San Antonio but no reply yet on the motion-sensory activated part of what I want, just the sprinkler/irrigation part. I have seen motion sensors that turn on lights, open garage doors, close curtains, but other than ScareCrow I have not seen any information about tripping a sprinkler system. I have even thought about the produce section misting systems that come on intermittently. Any ideas would be very welcome.
- ANSWER:
  Only way I can see of doing this is to get a motion detection light fixture and wire the sprinkler solenoid for that zone to the electrical (light portion) of the detector.
QUESTION:
Need to camoflage a slope in my backyard, any landscaping ideas?
Our backyard has a slope from the fence to about 6 feet out. It's about 4 feet difference. i need some ideas to camoflage the slope. There's not much that can be done as far as leveling without having to replace the entire fence.
- ANSWER:
  Instead of trying to hide it make a feature of it with a fairly steep terrace of flower beds, putting low lying plants at the lower levels in the front and gradually increase plant hight as you get higher up the terrace.
  or a alpine feature with large stones and gravel and some lovely alpine plants
QUESTION:
What would be some great sites for backyard landscaping ideas?
I have a smaller back yard but we have this Mound that goes up to the back brick wall and underneath the mound is all concrete so I can't dig into it. Its almost the full length of our backyard.

Any thoughts as to what to do with it?
It is concrete underneath but dirt on top.
- ANSWER:
  There are quite a few sites that will give you good ideas for your backyard. Try:
  http://www.myidealgarden.com/ or
  http://www.the-landscape-design-site.com/backyardlandscaping.html
  I found those two had great ideas, but there are a lot more if you want to check. Just Google 'backyard landscape designs' for a big list.
  
  As far as your concrete problem goes, I have an idea, but it depends on where you live. If the conditions are ok, succulents would be a good choice, as the roots are shallow and they require very little care and are very easy to grow. Try this site and see what you think:
  http://www.wildgingerfarm.com/SucculentGarden.htm