Reflections on the Joys of Gardening

Posted on February 16, 2012 by Glenn

A while back I read a great opinion piece, “The Joy of Quiet” that talked about how “the average American spends at least eight and a half hours a day in front of a screen…in part because the number of hours American adults spent online doubled between 2005 and 2009 (and the number of hours spent in front of a TV screen, often simultaneously, is also steadily increasing).” It went on to site research findings that indicate “that after spending time in quiet rural settings, subjects “exhibit greater attentiveness, stronger memory and generally improved cognition. Their brains become both calmer and sharper.” More than that, empathy, as well as deep thought, depends (as neuroscientists like Antonio Damasio have found) on neural processes that are “inherently slow.”

I am fortunate to work in an industry where I get to spend at least some time contemplating nature, although admittedly, usually from my office window. Today’s post is simply a random collection of quotes I have collected that I hope serve as a gentle reminder of how rejuvenating the act of gardening is and how important it is to stay in touch with nature.

• The best place to find God is in a garden. You can dig for him there. – George Bernard Shaw

• I think this is what hooks one to gardening: it is the closest one can come to being present at creation. – Phyllis Theroux

• When heaven falls to earth it becomes a garden. – Stoufer

• Everything that slows us down and forces patience, everything that sets us back into the slow circles of nature, is a help. Gardening is an instrument of grace. – May Sarton

• A man has made at least a start on discovering the meaning of human life when he plants shade trees under which he knows full well he will never sit. – D. Elton Trueblood

• I do some of my best thinking while pulling weeds. – Martha Smith

• Garden as though you will live forever. – William Kent

• I grow plants for many reasons: to please my eye or to please my soul, to challenge the elements or to challenge my patience, for novelty or for nostalgia, but mostly for the joy in seeing them grow. – David Hobson

• Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower. – Albert Camus

• Grow what you love. The love will keep it growing. – Emilie Barnes

• Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant. – Robert Louis Stevenson

• Working in the garden gives me something beyond the enjoyment of the senses. It gives me a profound feeling of inner peace. – Ruth Stout

• No two gardens are the same. No two days are the same in one garden. - Hugh Johnson

• Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago. – Les Brown

• He who plants a tree, plants a hope. – Lucy Larcom

• Gardening is the art that uses flowers and plants as paint, and the soil and sky as canvas. – Elizabeth Murray

‘Tis the Season for Transplanting Trees and Shrubs in Dallas

Posted on February 9, 2012 by Glenn

This is optimum tree and large shrub planting season in Dallas and Bonick Landscaping does a lot of it this time of year. In spite of the fact that trees and shrubs have an exceptionally high ROI in terms of both enjoyment and property value, the cost can add up which is why it is so important to either know what you are doing or hire someone who does. A few basic considerations:

LOCATION
There are a number of considerations when choosing where to plant trees. The site you choose will help determine the kind of tree you choose. Is it going to be located near a deck, a patio or a house? In the sun or shade? What are the soil conditions? Trees need room to grow root systems underground and branches above ground. It’s important not to plant a tree that will grow too large in a small area. This includes the root system which may invade sewer lines, crack sidewalks or create bumpy lawns when mature. Also, avoid planting trees too close to buildings or under power lines or telephone poles (unless you don’t mind seeing them butchered by the phone company).

CHOOSING A TREE
Why are you planting a tree or trees? Your reason also affects your choice. You may want be planting to increase your privacy, to create a windbreak or a sound barrier, to help shade your home or property or simply to increase your landscape’s beauty and your home’s property values. This information, combined with the desired location and soil conditions will help inform your choice. Some other considerations are fast-growing versus slow-growing trees (fast growing trees are often weaker and subject to storm damage) and various tree vulnerabilities (some trees are prone to particular diseases and insects).

TRANSPLANTING
I am not going to get into even the basics here regarding how to plant a tree (there’s too much to cover and DIYers can find plenty of resource for that on the Internet) except to note that you should always proceed to dig with caution (which again goes back to why it is prudent to hire a professional). Before digging, contact your utility company to mark the location of any underground lines. You could be liable for damage done to such lines.

For over 30 years Bonick Landscaping has served clients with the highest standards looking for out-of-the-ordinary luxury landscape designs and pools by offering the best in service, workmanship and plantings. View our portfolio.

A Warm Winter and Growing Bulbs in Dallas

Posted on February 1, 2012 by Glenn

photo courtesty of Doug Green's Garden

We are having an unseasonably warm winter, even for Dallas, and one of the results has been gardeners have already begun to see some spring bulbs sprouting and have been asking me about it. Some gardeners worry that their plants may die if a sudden cold spell hits (remember the snow we had last February?) The good news is your plants are hardier than you think.

Right now, most of what you are seeing is foliage (rather than buds and blooms) which can withstand cold temperatures. However, if the flowers actually bloom, then there is reason to be concerned if a cold snap is in the forecast. If you are concerned about your bulbs experiencing shock due to frost, you can cover them with a frost blanket. Your other option, of course, is to cut a bouquet and enjoy the blooms in the house. Realistically, the latter may be your best option with daffodils as they can be most affected by a late cold snap. (It’s also a good reason to consider planting early, mid-season and late-blooming daffodils.)

If your plants do develop flower buds and are damaged by the frost, it is normal for emerging buds that have been affected by frost to turn yellow or brown and drop off. This is an indication that the plant is returning to dormancy and may bloom again once the warmer weather returns. If your bulbs have flowered, they could be damaged for the rest of the year but should continue to grow in later years.

Landscaping Under the New Water Restrictions

Posted on January 23, 2012 by Glenn

Dallas is experiencing its fourth drought since 2000. We went into Stage 1 water restrictions on December 12, 2011 and meteorologists are currently predicting that the drought will continue at least through the summer. Nearby areas such as Frisco and Plano are in Stage 3 water restrictions, that mandate watering no more than one time a week.

It seems to me that “the writing is on the wall” in that smart Dallasites will move toward landscaping designs that involve more draught-tolerant plants. Stage 1 water restrictions mandate that watering can be done twice a week but if draught conditions continue, restrictions could become more severe. Either way, many of the lawns and landscapes I see around Dallas simply aren’t “simpatico” with the concept of water conservation.

As a professional landscape designer, I understand the challenges this presents. The palette of draught-tolerant plants simply isn’t as broad, but there is still plenty to choose from. It is important to remember that just because a plant is native to Texas, doesn’t necessarily mean it is draught-tolerant and that the Southwest, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Chili and the Mediterranean all are sources for beautiful plants that come from climates that are similar to ours. Among my personal favorites are native grasses, they are great for adding drama and focus to an environment. Other plants I love that are draught tolerant include rosemary, yuccas, agave and roses.

What can you do in the meantime to optimize the appearance of your landscape while moving toward a more draught-tolerant landscape? Here are some general tips:

Water restrictions mandate that all watering take place between midnight and 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and midnight. Because it stays hot into the evening in Dallas, it is better to water lawns during the early morning hours when temperatures and wind speed are at their lowest. This reduces evaporation and waste.
Cycle soak. This allows the soil to absorb all that is applied, avoiding runoff. The length of the cycle will vary based on the conditions of the landscape, but you want to schedule several short cycles about an hour apart in order to allow the water to absorb to a depth of about 6-8 inches. This is the most important thing that we can all do to save water and improve the health of the plants. We have successfully kept many landscapes alive in Frisco when we were only allowed to water once a week in 100+ degree weather by cycling the water 3-5 times to get a deep soak without runoff. This also helps to promote deep foot growth where the soil stays much cooler.
Raise the lawn mower blade to at least three inches, or to its highest level. A higher cut encourages grass roots to grow deeper, shades the root system and holds soil moisture.
Avoid over fertilizing your lawn. Applying fertilizer increases the need for water. Apply fertilizers which contain slow release, water-insoluble forms of nitrogen.
Install irrigation devices that are water efficient. Micro and drip irrigation and soaker hoses are examples. The most important thing is to make sure that your irrigation system is well-designed and operating properly.

The reality is that the current water restrictions are simply forcing us all to do something we should be doing anyway and that’s reducing the amount of water used in our landscapes though good water management practices. Maintenance becomes even easier when these best practices are combined with draught-tolerant plant choices. Do you have a favorite draught-tolerant plant? How well did your landscape survive last summer’s heat wave and our current draught? We’d love to hear from you.

Why Poinsettias at Christmas?

Posted on December 19, 2011 by Glenn

Ever wonder how poinsettias evolved into the undisputed flower of Christmas? The plant’s association with Christmas also began in Mexico in the 16^th century and centered on a legend of a poor girl who, unable to provide a gift for Jesus’s birthday, picked “weeds” at the side of the road that then blossomed into the beautiful red poinsettia. Beginning in the 17th century, Franciscan friars in Mexico included the plants in their Christmas celebrations. The star-shaped leaf pattern is said to symbolize the Star of Bethlehem, and the red color represents the blood sacrifice through the crucifixion of Jesus.

Poinsettias are native to Mexico and were introduced to the United States in 1825 by Dr. Joel Robert Poinsett, the first U.S. ambassador to Mexico, who dabbled in botany and sent cuttings back to his home in South Carolina. Today, poinsettias represent 85% of holiday season potted plant sales and are the best-selling flowering potted plant in the U.S. even though most are sold in only a six week period!

Three-to-six bloom red poinsettias are the most popular but poinsettias come in several other sizes, shapes and colors. Natural colors for poinsettias can range from creamy white to shades of pink and orange to the traditional red. Also available are marbled bracts of pink and white as well as pink flecks on red. You may see poinsettias in other more exotic colors but these plants are dyed, rather than natural.

Contrary to popular belief, Poinsettias are NOT poisonous. The milky sap from the stem can, however, cause minor skin irritation or mild stomach upset in pets or people.

Christmas Trees: Real or Fake?

Posted on December 8, 2011 by Glenn

Being in the landscaping business, I’m sure you can guess which side of the fence I’m on in this one. I have yet to come across a fake tree that has that wonderful pine scent that immediately evokes images of Christmas. Each year, my surprise is renewed regarding the myths that persist surrounding the “real vs. fake” debate. So, I decided I would dedicate a blog post to a few of the more prevalent myths and “arguments” I hear from folks regarding real and fake trees. (And just for the record, I am not in the Christmas tree business.)

Buy American
One of the best reasons I can think of to buy a real tree is that when you do, you are helping support an American farmer. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, most of the nearly 30 million live Christmas Trees that will be sold this year come from farms. Trees are a crop, planted by farmers to be used specifically as Christmas trees, the same way farmers grow fruits and vegetables for us to eat. Close to half a billion trees are currently growing on tree farms in the U.S. alone. There are 100,000 people employed in America’s Christmas tree industry and nearly 15,000 Christmas Tree farms across the United States. On the other hand, 85% of artificial trees are imported from China.

Go Green
The other argument I hear a lot in the real vs. fake debate is that in some convoluted way, fake plastic trees are more environmentally friendly. This one I don’t get at all. No one is “saving a tree” when they go artificial. While they are growing, real trees provide a habitat for wildlife and generate carbon dioxide. After Christmas, real trees are biodegradable and recyclable; they make great mulch. Fake trees begin life in a factory and last an average of six to nine years before they end up in a landfill.

Be Reasonable
Another issue often raised is that real trees are a fire hazard. When you start examining the statistics on this, the argument falls apart. In reality, Christmas tree fires are rare (that’s one of the reasons they make the news). And nearly 30% of them involve artificial trees. So if you consider that over 35 million real and fake trees are sold every year, the average 240 fires is a miniscule fraction of a percent. Then there’s the weird fact that according to the National Fire Protection Association, 18% of the fires that do occur are intentionally set (ponder that one). Another 20% of Christmas tree fires are caused by a heat source too close to the tree. (I can think of lots of things that put too close to a heat source for a prolonged period of time would catch on fire). With these odds, I’m simply not convinced the label “fire hazard” applies.

At the end of the day, I think what it really gets down to is convenience. Some people think taking a few minutes a day to water the tree and vacuum up random pine needles is a hassle. I personally think it’s no big deal and worth it for the pleasure a live tree brings. Thankfully, I’m in the majority. This year, Americans will purchase between 25 and 30 million live Christmas trees – more than three times the number of fake trees sold every year. Who says the Christmas spirit isn’t “alive” and well – and living?

‘Tis the Season to be Enjoying Outdoor Fireplace and Fire Pits

Posted on December 6, 2011 by Glenn

Fire. It keeps us warm. Allows us to see in the dark. Cooks our food. Is it any wonder that many of the stories about its origins have us stealing it from the Gods? And this time of year when it’s cold outside and the holidays are upon us, what can be more heavenly than a fire in the fireplace? Answer: a fire in an outdoor fireplace or fire pit that allows you to commune with nature in comfort.

Outdoor fireplaces are built similarly to indoor fireplaces except they don’t need a damper (‘natch) and special mortar needs to be used. It also helps for the fireplace to be tall and for the opening to be a bit lower to improve draft.

Even more popular with our clients than fireplaces are fire pits. Fire pits allow for 360-degree (i.e. panoramic) enjoyment – an upscale version of the old-fashioned campfire.

Outdoor fire pit next to outdoor dining area beneath an arbor, shown at night.

A limestone fire pit with a gas fire ring beneath lava rock.

Brick and stone outdoor fireplace shown at night with fire in it.

Outdoor fireplace made of brick and stone.

Outdoor fire pit surrounded by a crushed marble path is situated in a garden.

Fire pit creates a focal point and gathering spot for guests in a garden.

Off-Beat Gift Books for Gardeners

Posted on December 1, 2011 by Glenn

With the holidays approaching, I thought I would to a round-up of a few of the more interesting gardening-related books that have come out this year for anyone looking for gift ideas. It’s a short list and doesn’t contain any practical books on gardening – there are plenty of other sources you can turn to for that. This is just a short list of some of the more interesting and fun plant- and garden-related reads that came out in 2011.

Founding Gardeners: The Revolutionary Generation, Nature, and the Shaping of the American Nation by Andrea Wulf (published March, 2011) is a fascinating look at the founding fathers (George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, James Madison and Benjamin Franklin) from the unique and intimate perspective of their lives as gardeners, plantsmen, and farmers.

Fifty Plants that Changes the Course of History by Bill Laws (published September, 2011). This book details how plants have influenced human behavior and in turn affected the course of history. By chronicling the commercial activity surrounding the discovery and marketing of the foods and beverages we consume and the plants we transform, the author describes how those activities have impacted wars, politics, habits, social behavior and addictions.

Weeds: In Defense of Nature’s Most Unloved Plants by Richard Mabey (published June, 2011). ”A profound and sympathetic meditation on weeds in relation to human beings” (Sunday Times), Weeds shows how useful these unloved plants can be, from serving as the first crops and medicines, to bur-dock inspiring the invention of Velcro, to cow parsley becoming the latest fashionable wedding adornment. Mabey argues that we have caused plants to become weeds through our reckless treatment of the earth, and he delivers a provocative defense of the plants we love to hate.”

Wicked Bugs: The Louse That Conquered Napoleon’s Army & Other Diabolical Insects by Amy Stewart (May, 2011). This is a sequel to Wicked Plants which came out in 2009. Although it may seem to be a bit of a stretch, since gardeners are always dealing with insects, this counts as “garden-related” in my book (no pun intended) and in fact, Stewart provides some tips for gardeners like putting out rolled up newspaper or cardboard tubes at night to trap earwigs and dumping them into soapy water in the morning – ugh. The book is as creepy and as interesting as it sounds.

What’s New for Thanksgiving 2011? Tim Burton’s “B” Boy

Posted on November 23, 2011 by Glenn

I don’t know about you, but I can’t imagine Thanksgiving morning without the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, with all it’s giant balloons, which got me thinking, how did it all get started? Here’s what I found on history.com (the website for the History Channel).

“Originally known as Macy’s Christmas Parade—to signify the launch of the Christmas shopping season—the first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in New York City in 1924. It was launched by Macy’s employees and featured animals from the Central Park Zoo. Today, some 3 million people attend the annual parade and another 44 million watch it on television.

Tony Sarg, a children’s book illustrator and puppeteer, designed the first giant hot air balloons for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 1927. He later created the elaborate mechanically animated window displays that grace the façade of the New York store from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

Snoopy has appeared as a giant balloon in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade more times than any other character in history. As the Flying Ace, Snoopy made his sixth appearance in the 2006 parade.”

What’s your favorite parade balloon? I’m kind of partial to the Buzz Lightyear myself, but am looking forward to one of this year’s new introductions – Tim Burton’s “B” boy balloon…not exactly traditional Thanksgiving imagery!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Our Pools are like Snowflakes

Posted on November 22, 2011 by Glenn

Although we design and build all kinds of outdoor environments, pools are at the top of the list in terms of popularity. Not surprisingly, we build just as many pools in the cooler months as we do in the warmer months. Hint: They make great Christmas gifts. The great thing is, like snowflakes, no two are ever alike.