garden how-to

There is no escaping technology and today it has found its way into your garden as well. There are several kinds of accessories that you could use in your garden to make it an even more interesting experience. A bio-ethanol burner can easily be turned into a lighting source for your outdoor area. There are several versions that you can use, an open grate fire place, an enclosed square table and the like. All of these ensure a safe means of light in your garden and adds that touch of uniqueness.

You could also consider investing in an all-weather wicker furniture set. Here is a set of furniture, available in a range of shades and with that wicker finish that you love so much. You do not have to worry about it being in the sun or the rain because it is covered with a resin that allows it to handle the elements no matter how harsh they are. The best thing about such all-weather wicker furniture is that they come in a range of designs and so you never have to worry about not finding something to suit your décor.

For those who love to spend their spring and summer outdoors, a Terazzo table would be an excellent addition to your backyard. This is a stone table which can be opted for in similar seating arrangements as well. These stone tables are all-weather and you never have to worry about them being damaged out in the sun or snow. It is great for those early evening dinners or for those summer barbecues when the whole family gets together. Having one around also gives children another place to head to with their board games.

Solar garden lights are becoming increasingly popular among people who would like to have their outdoors nice and bright without the hassle of drawing power from the main grid lines. Once you install solar panels to the top of your home, you can be assured of a night’s worth of power with your solar garden lights. These come in different varieties to suit any place they are put in. You have different ones’ for the patio, the lawn, shrubs, water bodies etc. All of these can easily be installed and require minimum maintenance.

And for all those folks who love a good barbecue, the 4 burner gas barbecue, would be a perfect addition to your garden. Since it is based on gas, you do not have any worry of excessive smoke, over burning and the like. Having 4 burners will give you the advantage of controlling the heat. For a barbecue person, this could not be more important. 

Keeping pests and other unwanted insects away from your garden can be quite a challenge if you do not have access to the right type of information about them. There are a variety of techniques and tools available to keep your garden protected from these unwanted guests.

Keeping pests out of your garden is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing process and must be done regularly to keep the flora and the beauty of your garden protected and intact. Environmentally safe electronic pest control devices can be a great option to exercise for keeping garden pests away. These machines employ a combination of sound and vibration techniques to make sure that rodents and other unwanted pests stay away. There are no triggers, hooks or sharp stakes used here. It is safe for use even when there are children around.

Ultra sonic pest control devices can keep ants, mice, rats, moles, wasps and spiders away. They work on the principle that most animals have a vastly different hearing range than humans. These devices emit sound waves that cause so much discomfort to these pests that they just won’t be able to survive in the surroundings. These sound waves are beyond the hearing capability of humans and are hence safe for you and your children.

The ultra sonic pest control devices are in the market for long and have proven to be highly effective in solving garden pest problems without much of a hassle. Fortunately, the sound that are so annoying to the pests will not harm your pets which means you can use it in your garden without cause to worry.

Pest Stop products are popular and regularly used by most homeowners to keep their garden free from unwanted pests and rodents. You are sure to find a variety of rodent repellers, mole repellers, ultraviolet insect killers and even dog and cat repellants. All the devices are weather proof and have low power consumption.

If you research the market properly, it is possible to get the best combination of garden pest repellant products that are harmful to the unwanted pests but do no harm to humans including toddlers and infants. Most of them are safe for many types of pets too. It is important to buy pest stop products from reputable manufacturers to make sure that they are safe and follow the mandatory rules applicable for such appliances.

Finding it difficult to grow exotic plants naturally in your garden? Well, the next best option available is to fake it. There are many garden owners faced with the same predicament but have found fakes to be the ideal solution for overcoming the problem.

Topiary balls can be an attractive option to consider when it comes to decorating your garden. Artificial topiaries can make attractive decorative items at parties. You can make your own topiary with materials that are easily available. It is easy to make and will live much longer than a topiary made from a living plant.

There are many fake topiary plants to choose from including outdoor and indoor topiaries. It is an ancient form of art which can be easily replicated in your home or even as a commercial venture because the demand for these plants is large. Artificial topiaries are used in various decorative arrangements for garden parties for welcoming guests and to lend more colour and foliage.

Artificial topiary is in great demand especially the silk topiaries. They provide a great decoration option and can fit into multiple designs and landscapes. You can choose among the bay leaf topiary, ivy topiary and of course the silk topiary which requires virtually zero maintenance. They are available in the latest designing trends.

Artificial topiary plants can also be used in home and office interiors to eliminate that drab, monotonous look and infuse an element of greenery and freshness. It is the ideal way to make use of the greenery without having to undergo the trouble of maintaining these plants. The artificial plants feature soft natural looks and bring the warmth and pleasant look of the outdoors into your homes. Decorating with topiary plants is one of the easiest ways to spruce up the look of your drawing room or conference hall.

There are many people who love greenery but don’t really mind using fakes as long as they look completely natural. Beautiful blooms that look as good as, if not better than, originals are available nowadays and at prices that are wholly affordable. Ivy topiaries that are tall and have thin stems with wispy tops can dramatically alter the looks of your place. They are not like your usual stiff and stuffy artificial, they look naturally green and lively.

The only difference between real and artificial topiary is only the smell factor. They don’t smell like fresh herbs but there is no denying the fact they look so very real and more importantly they will last for years to come.

Are you looking to bring a little structure to your garden this spring? There are many ways of sprucing up the look of your private garden but it must be done with a lot of care and detailed planning.

You can start off with a wooden garden arch to add a touch of rustic charm to your garden. They can also be used to create a pathway between two areas of your garden you want to demarcate. Garden arches made of top quality timber will give you a feature that will last for years to come.

Garden swing seats of various shapes and designs are also great garden accessories to give your garden that dramatic change in looks. You must remember that buying hand crafted seats or swing seats takes time and consideration so don’t rush into the job. You must have a closer look at the shape for it is important to feel absolutely comfortable and relaxed. After all that is the reason why you are looking to invest in exclusive garden furniture.

Another great way to make your garden look graceful and attractive is to add a garden pergola. They can be a useful way to add structure to your garden. More often than not, these pergolas capture the attention of visitors for their beauty and style. It can be a natural focus point of your garden and can be used either as a decorative material for screens or to support climbing plants.

There are other ways of bringing a little structure to your garden this spring. A wooden planter will not only help you create a bed to grow your favourite plants but will also enhance the looks of your garden space significantly. They can fit in any corner and comes in a variety of sizes and shapes. Most of them are made of pressure treated wood and are hence durable and fit to endure rough climes and conditions.

You can protect the wood by lining the inside of the planters with plastic and securing it in place with small nails. Don’t forget to make provisions for adequate drainage before filling it with soil and compost.

A garden arbour is another fantastic way to enhance the aesthetic appearance of your garden. Arbors can draw immediate and admiring attention from visitors to your place. They allow creepers and vines to gradually wrap around them, creating a look that can improve the look of your garden by several notches.

You can consult landscaping or gardening experts to get more input if you want to bring a little structure to your garden this spring. 

UK Water Features offers more than just water features with a wide range of garden ornaments, barbecues, garden furniture, garden lighting, wild bird feed and electronic pest control products.  

Every Friday we run a simple competition on our Twitter page where our customers and friends can all take part. This past Friday we asked everyone 'what there all time favourite gardening tip was'. We received some excellent tips and ideas from hundreds of people.

With Spring right around the corner, many of us will start planting within the next few weeks so we thought it would be a great idea to put some of your gardening tips to share with everyone. 

When it comes to gardening, we want to get it right. Here are 10 top gardening tips from our followers on Twitter. 

1. It is a good idea to place bird feeders in your garden and keep them stocked up on fresh bird feed throughout the season. Providing bird with fresh clean water is also a advised. Having birds in the garden will help reduce the number of insects and slugs who will sabotage your crops. 
2. If you are into vegetable growing it is advised to never put your 'show leeks' out until June. The reason for this as we all live in the United Kingdom where weather is slightly unpredictable and we may see a late freeze during the Spring season. 
3. When growing vegetable it is advised to move plant plots and planters from year to year to make best use of natural nutrients provided by the surrounding soil. 
4. In preparation for growing this season, a top tip is to place your small seed pots on a quick was cycle in the dishwasher in order to disinfect the pots. 
5. Try to not fuss too much about your growing strategy. Leaving things to grow with out preening too much increases your success rate more than being to controlling. 
6. The use of egg shells to deter slug's, simply placing them in the soil will protect your plants and vegetables. 
7. Placing some old carpet with pre cut holes on top of a flowerbed and then covering it with soil. Planting on top of this helps to reduce weeds & retain moisture.
8. Another top tip for vegetable growers is to grow your carrots inside of containers. This will reduce the chance of your crop being attacked by fly's and other insects. 
9. Give Summer-flowering clematis a hard prune. It sounds a little drastic, however the plant will put on rapid new growth during the Spring season. 
10. Take advantage of the discount stores, it is possible to have a beautiful garden even on a limited budget. Online garden centres are able to offer lower prices on garden accessories than your local or standard stores. 

There we have it, 10 selected top gardening tips from our loyal followers on Twitter. Come and join in on the conversation this Friday where we will have a new question and a new prize up for grabs.

UK Water Features has everything you need for your garden in one online gardening store. Stocking a large range of gardening accessories, planters, greenhouses and much more. 

With winter on its way out and spring slowly making its way in, this is now the right time to get that gardening equipment you had stashed away and prepare your garden for the burst of color that this season brings. This is the time you get rid of all your winter plants that have run its course. It is time to prep those garden beds, put in new flowering plants and a fresh batch of nice summery vegetables. Along with prepping your garden up for the show of colors that will soon happen, you can also change the way it looks. Introduce elements that are aesthetic while being functional.

For those home gardens that are constantly low on space, you could think of bringing in a 4- tier greenhouse. It will stand perfectly against the wall and will serve as the perfect place to start germinating those plants. It comes with an easily removable cover and four shelves, giving you the space and flexibility you will need to tend to the plants. Assembling a stand like this does not need an expert and in fact requires no tools as well. It’s the ideal place to start growing your vegetable garden.

If you live in a fenced home, you will understand how unsightly the fences can get when you have a beautiful green garden in front of it. If you would like to cover than up, you could think of investing in bamboo screening panels that are usually available in a 6X6 standard size that can easily open up in one of your fence walls. All you have to do is attach these panels to your existing fence and you will have a great background on which to show off those creepers. Almost instantly you will have a perfect setting for a garden.

Another element that will be of great use in a garden cramped space or not, is garden planters. You could choose a few of the classic 34” trough wood styled versions which come with stain resistant woodwork. This works well in a garden where water is of course a constant. The heavy frame will keep things in check and you can easily put it together from the box without the worry of something falling apart. These are perfect for flowering plants and for a range of vegetables you might want to grow.

And finally, to bring in a bit of nature, do introduce a bird bath in your garden. There is nothing like waking up to the sound of grateful chirping birds that have come down for a drink or a bath. 

UK Water Features offers more than just water features with a wide range of garden ornaments, barbecues, garden furniture, garden lighting, wild bird feed and electronic pest control products.  

If the time has come for you to revamp the look of your garden, then you should consider including a water feature or two in your landscaping. There are several reasons for this – the first that it adds a look of serenity to your garden. Throw in a few lights, some water based plants and the sound of a flowing fountain and you can easily transport yourself to some serene location in a forest resort. It provides a calming effect, something that every stressed family looks out for. Why wait for just that hot shower in the bathroom, when you can have water features all around your home and your garden.

One of the most common of water based features for outdoor landscaping is that of a garden fountain. Depending on the size of the garden you have and the amount of space you are allotting for it, you can discuss things with your landscaping artist and have a fountain installed. One way of enhancing a garden fountain is by installing it in the midst of a rock garden. You can have it flow down the stones adding to sound effects that it produces and making it look better. Bring in a few gold fish and you have your very own slice of heaven in the garden.

Another way of introducing a garden fountain is by creating an infinity pool of sorts. You can have the water cascade down a wall, go down into a pool and then go back up to make for a constant motion. For a more Zen like feel, you could introduce a bronze statue of Buddha at the base of your fountain or in the center. Enhance the feeling when guests are around with some ambient sound and lighting.

There are several advantages to introducing a garden fountain. For one, it can keep children very happy, especially when you decide to have a garden picnic for them. It also serves as a calm and quiet spot to enjoy dinner with a loved one at the end of a tiring week. If you meditate early in the day, then this would serve as a perfect calm spot for you to try out.

Flowing water release ions that actually work at calming tense nerves. It is the reason why people feel calm after a hot bath or when they walk past of the waves at the beach. This very same effect can be brought into your garden, saving you the hassle of actually going all the way to the beach on crowded weekend. 

UK Water Features offers more than just water features with a wide range of garden ornaments, barbecues, garden furniture, garden lighting, wild bird feed and electronic pest control products.  

If you have purchased a water feature from here is our step by set guide to making sure you avoid potential damage due to the harsh winter we are about to face (again!):

All Solar Powered Water Features:

• If your feature is solar powered (no wires) we suggest removing all the water from the item, giving it a good clean using just warm water a cleaning cloth and maybe a few squirts of Fountain Grime and Lime Cleaner.
• Carefully remove the solar panel/pump and clean in warm water.
• Once clean and dry the solar powered water feature and solar pump can be stored in a garage or shed. Please remember that even in a shed though it can drop below freezing so it maybe also worth wrapping the water feature in a sheet or even bubble wrap to add further protection.

By following these simple steps come March 2012 and the start of spring you will be able to enjoy your feature for years to come.

All Mains Powered Water Features:

• Mains powered water features will more than likely form part of an integral garden design so taking these inside over the winter can prove tricky.
• As soon as the weather begins to change and the temperature gets towards freezing this is the time to make sure your water feature is prepared for the winter.
• Never allow ice to form in any part of the water feature.
• Start by emptying the water out of the feature. With smaller features is quite simple but with some of the larger water features it may involve two people to carefully lift the feature.  All the water needs to be removed. A little tip would be to place a towel inside the base of the feature to mop up excess water which struggles to find its way out.
• Once the water feature is empty it can then be covered with a fountain protection cover. These covers come in three sizes (Small Cover, Medium Cover and Large Cover) and can be placed over the top of the fountain with a simple draw string at the base.
• By following these simple steps your feature will be ready for when the sun makes its next appearance in the spring and your garden can be enjoyed again.

UK Water Features has a whole host of products to protect garden water features from Winter Protection Covers, to Algae Stopper and Fountain Grime and Lime.

As well know, last winter was a little bit of a disaster weather wise. Here in the UK we tend to have some bitterly cold winters that will not only affect your daily commute to and from work every day but the harsh temperatures will take a tole on your lovely garden water features should they be left unprotected throughout the winter season.  Your outdoor water features will be in harms way throughout the season if they are left outside in the freezing temperatures. In order for you to avoid expensive repairs when it comes round to spring there are several very important steps that need to be taken in order to prevent any damage to your features. Of course, it isn't always necessary to shut down your water features for winter, as they often compliment a snowy backyard like no other. However, please not that if your water feature is a habitat to fish, you will want to invest in a pond de-icer. Pond de-icers not only keep your fish warm and alive, but also ensure your water does not freeze. Frozen water inside of water feature is something that needs to be avoided at all costs. Frozen water may lead to cracks in the feature as once the water has frozen it will expand. Due to the limited room inside the feature including pumps and pipes the frozen and expanding water will need to escape from somewhere, creating a crack. 

Remember, most pond fish won't be able to digest their food past 12.8 degrees Celsius. If you live in an area that experiences hard freezes, you should definitely consider moving your water features indoors. Sometimes this option is a little too drastic, or is simply just too much trouble. If that is the case then I would suggest that you drain the water feature completely and store it in a dry place over the winter period. A good storage spot would be in a shed or garage. Of course, some things are just too large and bulky to manoeuvre inside a home, so if you have no other options and are concerned your water will experience a hard freeze, you should drain the water from your fountain, ensuring the pipes do not freeze. If you feel it's necessary, purchase a large, durable blanket to protect your investment or better still a fountain water protection cover from the harsh weather. 

With the horrible weather we had last winter, it may be a good idea to invest early in some rock salt to grit your pathways and driveways with. By investing early you will be prepared and avoid the troubles of shortages that were evident last winter. Amongst the shortages last winter was snow shovels and sledges.

Just remember, you have invested a significant amount of money in your garden features so why not take the little extra time to protect them over the winter. Come spring, the last thing that you want is to turn your water features back on in excitement only to find that there is a crack and water is now leaking and is essentially un-usable till fixed. 

UK Water Features has a huge range of garden summer essentials ranging from garden lighting, garden buildings, bbq's and water features. 

Everyone knows that the best time of the year to host an outdoor party or family get together is in the summer. Well with summer rapidly coming to an end now would be a great time to get one or two together and what better way to have an outdoor party than in a peaceful, tranquil and relaxing atmosphere in your garden. 

To ensure that you host the best possible party for your friends and family then follow these simple tips to success. 

No matter what everyone likes to feel special. You can create a unique layout to your gathering by adding personal seating cards for all of your outdoor guests. Purchase card-stock at any local stationary store and use your printer or write each persons name on a card or hand write the names for that completely custom and personal look. Fold each card in half with names out and place one at every seat. 

Make sure you have some comfortable outdoor seating. You don't want your guests shuffling around all night trying to get comfy. There are many out door garden and patio furniture sets that are available that are both beautiful and affordable. 

With almost all outdoor entertaining there will be some unwanted guests in the form of pesky bugs. Keep your outdoor area pest-free with several bug repellant candles. Place the candles in strategic areas to boost the repellant and keep your party bug free. These candles not only repel bug they will also give your party a relaxing candle lit atmosphere and your guests will love the ambience while enjoying the party. Citronella candles come in a variety of shapes, sizes and different, decorative holders. You can group regular candles in different areas of the outdoors with the citronella candles to create candle light for your entire party lighting solutions.

Lighting up your garden is not only suitable for outdoor entertaining. Yes it certainly does help to have your garden lit for your guests however throughout the year lighting up your garden with some simple garden lights really adds to the effect of your garden. Even if you are simply trying to highlight a garden feature or water feature on display. Some simple ideas are to drape the lights all around your outdoor area and throughout any trees, plants or shrubs, even overhead. Exterior light strands and rope lighting have become very popular as well as affordable. 

Music is always a welcome addition to any outdoor gathering. Play it low as just a background enhancement. You don’t want guests to have to talk over the music or have the neighbours complaining. 

Keep plenty of ice on hand for drinks and for dishes that need to be kept chilled. Put a large serving dish full of ice out and sit the smaller dish with food on top of the ice. This keeps food cooler for longer.

If you are planning on having a BBQ with your guests, plan ahead. You don't want to have to make your guests sit around half an hour between courses while the food cooks. Make sure you know what is cooking, when it needs to be cooked and how long it will take to cook to ensure that you have all the prepared food ready to go on the BBQ. A gas barbecue will cook the food a little quicker than a charcoal bbq or even a masonry bbq. However, if you are wanting your food to have the traditional charcoal taste, then extra preparation will be needed as the food may take a little longer to cook. 

Keeping a storage box handy with your outdoor entertaining in mind is a simple solution. This box can hold all of your BBQ grill accessories and your outdoor dishes. Plastic dinnerware and glasses can be chosen to match any décor or theme and are much more personal than paper. This cuts down on garbage and keeps you from damaging the good china from chipping and breaking. Just wash and store for next time. 

Just follow some or all of these simple tips for successful outdoor entertaining. Remember the extra planning and preparation that you put in is crucial in order to create a fabulous, outdoor party that your guests will remember for a long time to come.

If you are struggling to get power to a certain part of the garden or want to remain green and eco-friendly then a solar powered garden water feature must be top of your shopping list.
Solar water features can be up and running within several minutes enabling you to instantly enjoy the benefits of a water feature in your garden.
The Falmouth 2 Tier  constantly recycles water from the hidden reservoir.

Stage 1: Carefully remove all the items from the packaging, take particular care when removing the solar panel from the box. Try and recycle as much of the packaging as you can, keeping the green ethos going.

Stage 2: Lay the components on the floor and follow the basic instructions screwing first the main pillar into the base. Be careful not to over tighten. Follow the same again for the top section.

Stage 3: The solar panel is already built into the top section of the fountain so all you need to do here is remove the protective film from the solar panel and connect the pump underneath the solar panel. Before turning the solar panel around into the sunlight fill the top bowl with water, enough to fully submerse the pump and keep the birds happy!

On a bright day the fountain will start to work straight away enabling you to enjoy the soothing sound of trickling water.
In the box you also get the choice of changing the head on the solar fountain.

For added effect at night the fountain comes complete with two glass tea-light holders, place your favourite candles in here or fill with seed for wild birds.
Adding Algae Stopper  will help reduce the build-up of algae and keep the fountain looking clean.

The Falmouth 2 Tier Birdbath Fountain Solar Water Feature is made by Smart Solar, market leaders in the field of utilising the suns natural power to create wonderful water features and attractive garden solar lights. 

Winter Care:

During the winter we would always recommended draining the fountain and covering with a winter protection cover. Unlike mains powered features solar fountains can be easily taken indoors during extreme weather conditions.

We wanted to show you how easy it is to install one of our self-contained water features. It seemed to make sense to install our best seller from Kelkay; the Friendship Fountain looks fantastic in both the traditional and more contemporary garden. Even when not running the fountain adds a real feel of style and design and can be enjoyed from all angles.
The below installation guide is pretty much the same for all the water features we sell so should prove to be a useful guide when installing your garden water feature.

Stage 1: Once the fountain arrives carefully remove all the items from the packaging. Check every bit of polystyrene as sometimes you may find spare parts (bulbs, covers) hiding away. Try and recycle as much of the packaging as you can.

Stage 2: The top two parts to the fountain twist and click into place. Take care when doing this not to over tighten and damage the fountain.
Remove the black plastic caps covering the glass bulbs (These are just to protect the glass during transit).

Stage 3: Once built you can now connect the pump and the electrics to the water feature. Attach the top of the pump to the clear PVC pipe which hands down inside the fountain. The pump can be adjusted with the regulator on the side. We recommend starting with the flow regulator fully open and then adjusting down if required.

A ‘female’ connector off shoots from the pump and this is where you need to plug the lights into. Once plugged in you need to tighten the screw cap enabling a water tight seal. All these cables can then be placed into the back of the fountain and hidden away. (These are fine to get wet so no need to worry). All that comes out of the back of the Friendship Fountain is a single cable which will then run to your transformer and plug socket.

Stage 4: Your fountain is now ready to be connected to be filled with water and plugged in.
When filling the fountain we always suggest using either a hose pipe or a larger watering can. I think you will be surprised as to how much water the fountains hold! Be careful not to overfill, you need to make sure the pump is fully submerged in water and that you do not fill above the access door to the rear of the feature.

Once filled the fountain can be plugged in and tested. We would always suggest testing the fountain before burying any cables in the garden.
The male end running from the fountain simply plugs into the transformer block and like the lights have a black screw cap which needs tightening.

And now time for the big switch on…

Hints and Tips about the Electrical Installation:
The low voltage transformer used with this water feature is rain proof however it should be placed in a free draining position. Ideally we always recommended that it is kept in a shed or outbuilding or inside a weather proof box. This will prolong the life of the transformer.
When the fountain is switched on the transformer may get hot, this is normal.
If connecting your water feature to a mains outlet outside it must be waterproof. We recommend the use of a residual current device (RCD) circuit breaker when connecting the fountain to an electrics supply.
Caring for your new fountain:
Your water feature maybe the final touch to a re-vamped garden and we would like to make sure that you have years of pleasure from it.
• Always make sure the fountain has sufficient water in to ensure the pump is fully submersed.
• Clean and top the water up on a regular basis
• We recommended using Algae Stopper to keep the water clean and clear.
• To clean the fountain you can use Fountain Grime and Lime
• Always turn the power off to the fountain before maintain the pump.
• Never allow the pump to run dry and this will cause damage and invalidate the warranty.

How to look after your fountain when the temperature drops:
Winter are getting colder and colder and like most garden items your fountain will need protecting from the elements.
During winter never allow ice to form in the bowls as the force of the ice forming will crack the bowls. Drain all the bowls out and pour the water out from the main reservoir inside the fountain. (A tip here if you are struggling to get all the water out, place a towel inside the back and this will soak up excess water). Once drained apply a winter protection cover or for total protection and prolong the life of the paint finish, drain the fountain, cover and store indoors.

The pump should be removed from the fountain and stored in a dry area.

We hope that if you already have a water feature or are looking to purchase one that this guide has proved useful and you will enjoy your fountain for many years to come.

Trouble Shooting
We are here to help if you have any questions either before buying a garden water feature or after.
A few useful hints and tips and be found below.
The water pump seems to have stopped pumping?
• Check the power is correctly connected.
• Check that there is sufficient water inside the reservoir.
• Check the pump and tubing for any form of obstruction.
• Remove the cover on the side of the pump (the flow adjuster) which will reveal the pump impeller, gently turn the rotor to check that it is not broken or jammed.
The pump is working but the flow doesn’t seem to be enough?
• Make sure the flow regulator on the pump is turned up
• Ensure the pump is fully submersed in water
The pump has started to make a slight rattling noise, what do I need to do?
• Turn off the power supply and check the rota assembly by removing the pump cover and rotor plate front.
• Grip the impellor and gently take out the rotor assembly from the pump. This can then be rinsed with the pump housing to remove any debris or grit.
• If during this process you find any breakage or surface damage is found on the rotor assembly please contact our customer care team.
What guarantee comes with the fountain?
• All our water features come with a 12 month guarantee valid from the date of purchase.

So you have noticed something green in your pond or water feature, expanding to the sides, and maybe even a discolouring of the water. What is it? It is a common underwater plant species called algae. Contrary to beliefs, algae is beneficial to ponds, as it provides a food source for fish. However, algae poses several problems, too. One thing is for sure though, algae is not the prettiest of things to look at and in many cases most people tend to reduce or completely remove algae from their ponds or water features. There needs to be a happy medium to the amount of algae build up you allow though as you do not want algae to overtake your feature.

How does algae build up?

For algae to grow it needs light. So especially at this time of year where we are blessed with a large amount of daylight algae is something that we need to look out for. Another contributing factor to the growth of algae is warm water and ‘nitrates’ (which build up from not doing regular water changes). With the warm weather that we are having right now your water in your features is bound to warm up which will cause algae to grow quickly. Also if phosphates are present, they will promote algae growth. Further natural factors that cause algae in your garden pond and force you to control algae growth in summer are rain, pollen count, rotten foliage and the excrements of pond fish. These all create an abundance of nutrients in the water that is ideal environment for the growth of algae.

Replacing depleted oxygen in your pond is a great way to reduce or even prevent algae build up. Simply adding an aeration device, such as a Solar Oxygenator will provide added oxygen to the water and help prevent algae build up. When the algae die and is being decomposed, the added oxygen provided by the device allows the decomposition process to occur properly and also provide oxygen for the fish.

The aeration device works by splashing the water in the air, this is not only adding valuable oxygen, it is also helping to vent gases such as carbon dioxide which is being produced in large amounts from the decomposition process. It is now possible to get solar oxygenators that operate both day and night. This obviously gives you the benefit of having your system running through the night.

UK Water Features has a huge range of garden summer essentials ranging from garden lighting, garden buildings, bbq's and water features. 

As the summer weather finally starts to shine upon us we are all thinking about making the most out of this very temperamental weather and with the weather forecast set to be a good one for the next week now would be a good time to enjoy the weather on our back gardens. As some of may well be a little limited on space back there here are a few little tips that can enhance your garden and make the most of the space that you have got.  Irregardless of what sized garden we have it is so easy to make the most out of the outdoor space that we do have with a few simple additions a little maneuverering and a little playing around.

Let's get started. I know we are all thinking "Let's have a BBQ!" well it certainly is set to be a lovely weekend for one. However if

your garden is in fact limited on space then remember that to host a great BBQ for a few friends and family there is no real need to have a huge BBQ. A simple BBQ like a flat bed2 burner is ample for a small party. Get out of the mind set of thinking that the 'bigger the better' and opt for the smaller BBQ that will fit nicely in a corner somewhere.

For those with smaller gardens, there really is no need to panic and start thinking that there is just not enough room to fit everything that you want. Well ask yourself this Do you need a full fledged patio set with a massive umbrella? In most cases you probably don't. The good thing is there is certainly room for some seating. After all a seating are in your back garden is essential. Think a little on the smaller side and add garden furniture that has enough seating for your family and maybe a friend or two. The Illinois Round Sunburst Teak Table & 4 Chairs is a fantastic little garden furniture set that will not take up too much room in the garden, giving you more room to play with.

Now if your small garden isn’t quite big enough a large flower bed or decorated area, it is still possible to brighten it up with some strategically placed garden accessories such as garden gnomes, birdbaths or even a small water feature. It is even possible to brighten your garden up with some strategically placed potted planters or some beautiful hanging baskets that are off the garden floor preventing any unwanted clutter.  

With the summer not quite hitting the highs right now, the evenings are still a little on the chilly side. So if you are planning on  entertaining outdoors or if you are fond of the lazy summer evenings on the back garden then it is certainly a good idea to consider a chiminea or firepit. These can be placed in around or near a small garden furniture set. Many of the newer models are a lot more versatile so they can be moved around the garden when needed. Once finished simply place them back in a corner in you garden for another day. Keep in mind though, many of the designs are very decorative and offer a lot unique ad traditional look/feel to your garden, so you don't want to store it away somewhere where no one can see it.

Your garden may be small, but you need to tell yourself this "If I move this over there this will create a little more room here for this". When creating room inyour garden and making the most out of your space it really is as simple as trail and error. Move things around and play with the space that you have got.

If you are like many garden pond owners you may notice that there seems to be an abundance of disgusting green algae present in your pond. This is certainly not an attractive look and most definitely takes away from the physical beauty that your garden pond once provided. The simple fact that there has not been enough regular maintenance to keep your pond from turning into a big bowl of pea soup. Garden ponds are a natural habitat for various species of wildlife, therefore they need to be treated similar to how you maintain an aquarium. Garden ponds by a rule of thumb should be treated and cleaned at least once a week in order for them to remain algae free and give your pond the look you originally intended.

In a few simple steps you can keep your pond clean and algae free, keeping up regular maintenance of the pond will reduce the amount of time and effort needed to keep it clean.

The first step in my opinion is probably the messiest. You need to physically get in your pond and vacuum it all out using a pond vacuum cleaner. By doing this task it will remove allot of the fish waste that would normally build up in the bottom of your pond and cause algae problems. Another good habit to get into while you are in the pond is to grab yourself a strong wire brush and scrub the side of the rocks clean.

This will help reduce the algae build up on the sides of the pond. The second step to cleaning you garden pond is as simple as keeping your fish count to a minimum. The obvious fact is that the fewer fish swimming around in the pond means less fish waste which algae uses to feed on. Sorry, a little disgusting but true. Another rule of thumb is not feed your fish more than once per day, it is not needed. Plus the more you feed them the dirtier the pond will become making your cleaning task that much harder. The third step would be to plant your pond with lots of aquatic plants provide shade and shelter for your fish which prevents algae growth. The final step in the process is an obvious one; use a pond cleaning net to remove all leaves, twigs and other debris from the pond. Simply fishing out the debris from the pond will help prevent algae growth as over time this debris will rot and cause bacteria to grow. It is a good idea to completely drain out the pond at least once a year, preferably in the spring. Hose it down, completely scrub it clean and re-fill with fresh clean water.

Some extra tips to help reduce the amount of algae build up in your pond and maintain the fresh and clean look in your garden. Algae stopper is a must have product if you are thinking of buying or already have a water feature in your garden. Kills Algae & bacteria and stops slime build up. Simply adding a garden ornament like a garden heron to the side of your pond is a perfect way to scare away the real thing from your fish and also add a sense of true British nature to your garden. 

UK Water Features has over 3500 products online, including over 1000 water features. 

Unfortunately, a large part of caring for our gardens means taking care of pests. Many pests can be very destructive or even fatal towards your plants. There are also pests which we consider to be a menace such as ants, cats, squirrels and moles. No matter which they tend to hinder our overall enjoyment of our gardens.  It is necessary to take the appropriate action as soon as possible to reduce the amount of damage that these pests may have caused, or prepare a head of time to prevent any damage being initially done.

Where possible the most economically friendly way of disposing of pests is the natural way or any chemical free agent.  Every pest has a predator of sort. For example there are always smaller insect who have a larger predator to control your pest problems. So a good idea would be to welcome wildlife into your garden help fend off those pesky plant munching insects.  If you do happen to notice any slugs, snails or caterpillars then a good pest control would simply be to remove them and dispose of them in an appropriate manor.

There are several non-chemical methods to reduce or eliminate your pest control problems. Slug pellets that are formulated with non-toxic ingredients that will essentially cause he least harm to other creatures are always a popular option. Traps, sticky traps are a great way to catch the pesky wasps and whiteflies.  They are easy to set up, simply hang them in a greenhouse for example next to the plants which tend to be suspect to pest invasions, such as fruit plants. A strange, yet not new technique to reduce the pest issues are the use of egg shells. It may be new concept for some, basically the scratchy surfaces slow down the slugs and snails. Further methods include Nematodes, pesticides, companion planting and barrier methods which consist of laying horticultural fencing over the crops that are susceptible to pests.

There are further methods to reduce or prevent unwanted pest activity in your garden. By simply adding animal chasers you will be able to alarm unwanted animals from your garden. Bird spikes are a popular option. You have probably frequently seen bird spikes in use around town or city centres above CCTV cameras. What they do is prevent the birds from landing and perching on an area you wish to preserve.  Solar security lights are also a great addition to any garden wishing to reduce unwanted animals from their gardens and provide that little added security to your home. By startling an animal with motion activated lights they will be less likely to stick around. 

All in all there are many options available to help prevent unwanted animals and pests from your garden. It is important to take note of this tip, identify your perpetrators as early as possible and take the appropriate action to prevent any damage to your garden. Once things are in place, sit back and enjoy with the peace of mind that everything is safe. 

UK Water Features has a wide range of indoor water features, outdoor water features, solar water features, pond pumps, aggregates, garden lighting, pest control and garden ornaments.  

Creating a wetland area in your garden is a brilliant solution to dealing with waterlogged soil. Instead of abandoning these boggy areas of your garden, plant a wetland are and enjoy the many beautifully coloured birds and butterflies that it attracts. Many plants thrive in wetland conditions, including grasses, hostas, marsh marigolds, petunias, irises and lillies. It is advisable to use a diverse selection of plants in order to attract the widest variety of wildlife to your wetland garden. So long as the plants have similar flooding needs they may be planted together in a wetland area.

If you desire a wetland garden but have no naturally boggy areas, you can create such a garden by digging a wide, sloping, shallow hole and lining it with a pond liner, alternatively use a preformed pond. Punch holes in the plastic to prevent stagnation, and then refill with the dirt removed when you dug the hole. Saturate the dirt with water and maintain saturation by using soaking hoses. You may then plant your wetland garden as you wish, using plants with similar flooding requirements.

It is also possible to maintain a wetland garden without constant flooding if you select plants such as cardinal flower, bulrushes, jewelweed, as these plants require alternating wet and dry periods to thrive. In summary, a wetland area is a simple and lovely addition to any garden.

UK Water features offer a range of pond pumps, liners and accessories

A self-contained water feature is a simple way to add peace, tranquillity, and interest to your garden or patio. These recirculating water features set up in minutes, require little ongoing maintenance and incur low operating expenses. It is possible to purchase a self-contained water feature that operates on solar power exclusively. Many of these solar water features are sold with battery backup for use on overcast days. Maintenance of a self-contained water feature consists of using algae and limescale cleaners as needed. Both of these items are commercially available at reasonable cost.

Water features are a lovely addition to any garden or patio. Self-contained water features offer the same effect as more labour-intensive landscaped water features. The simplicity of self-contained water features makes them an excellent choice for busy individuals who wish to have an area of tranquillity within their garden. Additionally, self-contained water features are simple to set up and to take down. This makes them ideal for those who rent their dwelling, as self-contained water features are easily portable. In the event of freezing weather, it is simple to drain and cover a self-contained water feature to protect it from damage.

In summary, the simplicity of self-contained water features cannot be overstated. They are quick and easy to set up and to take down and simple to maintain, making them an ideal addition to any garden or patio.

UK Water features are a leading water features offering a large range of solar, self contained, indoor and fountain products

It does not matter if you are working with a stretch of ground around your country home or a small area within your walled off garden area, the choices you make on how your garden appears should only matter to you and nobody else.

If you like the idea of having a little bit of green space to relax in on the weekends but you are also practical and know that you do not have a great deal of time or money to spend you should consider using materials that are durable and require low maintenance. This can be achieved by using stepping stones or a paved walkway. By creating a permanent path, such as with gravel, within your garden you remove a portion of ground that requires extensive maintenance and at the same time implies sophistication in the execution. Another option is simple decking which can be added around even the lowest profile areas of a home.

A flagstone walkway, pebbles or even short paved path can lead you away from your home and pull you into the private space you are seeking. Items such as these are not only low maintenance but also low profile. There is nothing to be knocked over and broken by your neighbour’s dog. There is nothing that requires watering or can fall victim to pest of all types.

UK Water Features - For a range of water features, aggregates and garden buildings.

For those who have a home garden and would like to attract different types of wildlife, a great way to do this is with a pre-formed pond. Water is essential for every different forms of life, and it will help your garden get the water it needs and grow. There are many different beautiful flowers and plants that will grow around ponds throughout the different seasons in the year. Also, many different animals in the natural habitat will come to use the pond, and this can provide for enjoyable viewing and entertainment.

Many animals will gather at water to drink, and animals like fox, rabbits, and even squirrels will come to drink from a garden pond. Not only will the pond attract larger animals that need to hydrate, but it will also attract smaller species that live in water, such as minnows, frogs, and birds. Birds will swim in ponds and you can place seed out get as many species as possible, and many different traveling birds like ducks will come and go. The size of your pond will determine the different animals that you will have visiting.

Using a pre-formed pond to attract various kinds of wildlife to your garden is very easy to do, you just want to make sure that you have the space in your garden, and the time to enjoy it.

UKwaterfeatures.com is the leading supplier of garden products, buildings, pond supplies and aggregates in the UK.

Adding paved areas to your garden area will enhance its appearance and reduce maintenance. The paved area will not need to be weeded and watered, just swept as needed. If the paved area installation is well done, you will not need to repair or replace it for twenty or thirty years.

The size of your garden and how you want to use it will guide your decisions. Do you want a paved path meandering through the garden, a paved patio area for entertaining or perhaps, you would like to pave the whole area, very low maintenance, and add large container gardens for color.

Once you have decided on the use, you will find paving materials and aggregates in many different colours and shapes available in concrete, cobbles, brick and natural stone. Concrete is the least expensive choice; stone the best choice for a natural look.

Material chosen; plan your design. A small garden with a pond or fountain as a focal point, small areas devoted to greenery and flowers and a patio covering the rest of the space, with perhaps a garden table and chairs and some pots filled with seasonal flowers placed about, would be lovely.

A large garden could be divided into different areas; an entertaining area, children play area, lawn and flower gardens and a kitchen garden, all with a unifying theme, are a few suggestions.

Many people enjoy the exercise and fresh air that an outdoor garden affords. And the rewards for such efforts are the peaceful greens of foliage and the myriad pleasing colours of flowers. But whether you have acres of garden or a tiny cottage patch of flowers, there are always those pesky weeds with which to contend. Rock aggregates are the perfect way to keep weeds down and accent your favourite garden plants at the same time.

While there are many types of mulches available on the market, rock aggregates are becoming more and more popular with gardeners these days. Small stones, pebbles, gravel for walkways and larger stones are available, as well, for accent pieces in and around the garden pond. Every colour of rock is available to enhance the colour of the plants you have chosen for your plantings. Rock aggregates can also be used as paving stones as edging for flower beds or as paving stones for pathways. And crushed rock and crushed glass of many colours will add a touch of class to your outdoor garden scheme. Unlike mulch, rock aggregate materials do not need to be replaced as often, and do not biodegrade as quickly as mulch.

Nothing beats rock aggregate for a low maintenance garden as a mulch, path or basis for a garden pond.

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Winter is here, but that doesn't mean your garden has to suffer. In addition to caring for your plants and maintaining the landscape, you can add any number of festive touches to make your garden a true winter wonderland in time for the holiday season.

For example, you can't go wrong with Christmas imagery. Sledges and bright lights make wonderful decorations that can be arranged around your plants or plant posts without harming the health of your garden. If you have anything sturdy and durable, a little red ribbon won't hurt their survival.

You could also try planting something new, something festive. Berried bushes can make a delightful addition to larger gardens, especially holly - holly leaves won't lose their colour even in the dead of winter, making a beautiful contrast to snowy lawns.

If you feel like planning ahead for the years to come, think about re-planting your very own Christmas tree. The average evergreen can add eight to ten inches per year. Just make sure local weather conditions are conductive to their growth.

As long as you take care of your plants, maintain good gardening habits - and don't let neglect working outside just because it gets cold! - There’s no reason why your garden can't shine just as well in winter months as the height of summer.

When decorating your home for the holidays it is important to always keep safety at the forefront. The holidays are a wonderful time filled with family and friends but no holiday is fun if you are in the hospital with a broken arm. That is why it is wise to never try to do all the decorating by yourself. Always have a second person there to steady a ladder when climbing onto the roof to attach the Christmas lights or when you are on that step stool putting that star on top of the tree.

Another important safety tip to remember is to never overload your outlets. With all the LED christmas tree lights and outdoor Christmas lights you will be putting up, it would be a good idea to invest in a quality power outlet strip to avoid potential fire hazards from having too many things plugged in. Always remember to turn all the Christmas lights off when leaving the house for extended periods of time or when you go to sleep.

Outside Christmas lights are pretty to look at but can easily become too hot and start a fire. Always make sure when you are putting out your Christmas decorations not to block hallways. In case of an emergency it is important to have a clear exit path. If you follow these important safety tips you are sure to have a great holiday season.

With the coming of cold weather, we all wonder what Mother Nature has in store for us come spring. There are several things we can do to keep the plants we cared for over the past year to come up healthy as warm weather approaches.

First, start by raking up the leaves around your plants and pulling out the weeds, as this will give you a head start as your plants pop through the dirt come spring. Dig up tender bulbs and store them over the winter.

Get rid of dead plants and trim perennials leaving about a one inch stem above ground to prevent rot and to keep away insects. Add a two inch layer of mulch to keep roots warm and to protect them from sudden temperature changes allowing water to flow, keeping the roots hydrated and prevent tissue damage. Cover plants and shrubs with a cloth fabric to prevent damage from an overnight frost. Do not use plastic, as it restricts air flow. Remove covering during the day to give them needed sunlight and fresh air. If some of your plantings are in small containers, bring them indoors storing them in a basement or garage for the duration of the winter. Larger container plants could be dug up and re-potted, then put back in the warmer weather.

Check out our vast array of water features and outdoor christmas lights in our online store

In the winter of 2009, it was one of the coldest to hit the UK for decades and the cold winter snap not only made commuting to work and going to the shops difficult but for some people it made it impossible. Even simple things like going to take the rubbish out proved too much as the snow on the drive ways and paths made it treacherous on foot. Some good samaritans did help out the vulnerable people but often found themselves short on tools such as snow shovels and rock salt (which even the UK government seemed to have trouble in getting their hands on).

This year at UK Water Features we have more winter provisions from rock salt to help to grit your paths and driveways, to snow shovels and even sledges to have fun if the snow comes again. So don't wait until the snow and cold front hits, order now and avoid the panic buying of last year and be ready for when the snow hits this winter!

Your garden has been beautiful and bountiful all summer, and the last vegetables are now being placed on your table or into your freezer. To recreate or add to this splendour, the time has come to prepare your garden for the winter. As you collect the last of your harvest, pull all vegetation from your garden. This can be added to your compost pile, but make sure that it does not contain any seeds. Collect the leaves as they fall, to also add to your compost pile.

 After the vegetation is pulled, I like to lightly till the soil. This allows me to break up any roots and reduces to new growth of weeds in the spring. Till in organic compost, to create a richer soil. Cover the area with an additional layer of compost. Clean all of your gardening tools. After cleaning them, wipe a light coat of oil on them to preserve them and to prevent rust. Clean all your pots and other containers with warm sudsy water. Rinse and dry them well before storing them. Clean any type of fountain or water feature that you may have. Drain and store it according to its directions. Make sure that your garden hoses are drained and detached from the outdoor spigots. You don't want to have to replace either the hose or the spigot in the spring due to it freezing and bursting. Get comfortable, pull out the seed catalogues, and get ready for spring.

As we start getting less daylight we also start getting cooler evenings. We tend to stay closer to the comfort of our homes. Keep enjoying your gardens by putting your potted plants and flowers close to your patio and bring lighting closer. If you have solar lights bring them closer into your patio or sitting area.

If you have a window you often are looking out, please bring some plants and lights closer for viewing so you may still enjoy what you have grown throughout the summer.

Embrace the sight and sounds of your bird baths, water falls or any other running water by putting a small solar spot light under them. For your sound effects, purchase an in expensive baby monitor. You will be surprised at how relaxing and comforting it is to see and hear the happenings of your own yard under different outdoor garden lighting.

As winter does draw closer be sure to remove any motorised parts from your bird baths or water falls so as not to damage them by any frost or below freezing weather if you are not using a heating system in them.

Get pleasure out of what you have harvested for as long as you possibly can.

Early evenings don't stop the fragrance that you get from you hard summer days work.

September doesn't have to mean that time spent in the garden is over. Hardy plants can continue to grow and look beautiful even during fall months; so go ahead and make some great changes to that place in your home that sometimes gets little attention.

If you do spend a lot of time in your garden during the spring and summer months then now is the right time to put some finishing touches on some of the things that help you to make that time spent even more pleasurable, and don't forget that the predicted hot September can create wonderful memories in the garden.

Outdoor furniture is one of the best investments that anyone can make to prepare this outdoor space for comfort and beauty. When planning for the purchase of that outdoor furniture, make sure that you choose for durability. Since you are going to be putting your hard earned money into this furniture you will want it to last awhile.

Outdoor furniture and tables can be used year round or can be purchased to fold and put away once the weather no longer calls you outdoors. If you have chosen to put your furniture away for the winter you will have to take it out once the warmth of spring beckons you outside again so be sure to store it for easy access and to keep it clean.

One of the critical aspects of lake management is to ensure that the lake has a proper amount of oxygenation. Oxygen is vital in promoting the healthy growth of beneficial organisms and to retard the growth of detrimental organisms. Oxygenation promotes the growth of aerobic bacteria, which clean up the bottom of the lake by eating the sludge which forms at the bottom of most lakes. Optimal oxygen levels also promote the growth of larger lake inhabitants like fish and arthropods. Many harmful organisms, such as anaerobic bacteria and harmful algae thrive in an oxygen depleted environment and overgrowth of these organisms can cause the lake to become overgrown and become foul smelling.

The best and easiest way to increase oxygenation in a lake is through an aeration mechanism. The simplest, yet a very effective way to aerate a lake is to provide a stream of air bubbles to flow through the lake water. Any simple compressor that provides airflow through an air hose will deliver a large amount of aeration to your lake. Installing a fountain or waterfall feature will also increase the oxygen content of the water in the lake, while providing visual and auditory stimuli for the public to enjoy.

When setting up landscaping around your home it is essential not to forget the importance of some form of water. Many people may settle for a small fish pond or even a hot tub. Although, when it comes to water and landscaping, nothing beats the H2X Momentum Swim Spa. It is eye catching and does way more than an ordinary spa.

While the H2X Momentum has therapy settings that allow you to enjoy stationary muscle therapy far better than the ordinary spa, it has other features as well. The H2X has an aquatic exercise system with varying levels of resistance to tune it to your perfect underwater workout. It even has dual temperature settings for the therapy and the spa sides to enhance your workout or your comfort. The spa and swim sides are also tactfully separated by an acrylic wall that allows for multiple activities to get going on at once without any other users noticing. The H2X Momentum Swim Spa is perfectly set up for the ultimate comfort of all users. It even features special LED lighting systems and stainless steel spouts to enhance the comfortable feeling of the spa's atmosphere.

The H2x Momentum is also a breeze to take care of, it is very low maintenance. As well as being, the most low energy using swim spa on the market, over the long run it could pay for itself in savings. If these features sound great to you, head down to us at our showroom to schedule a private swim test. You will not be disappointed.

Everyone knows that listening to a fountain can be soothing at the end of a stressful day. But there are true health benefits to be found in bubbling water. Hydrotherapy in its purest form, a fountain relieves stress by gently engaging the brain so that negative thoughts drift away. A fountain can even help those who suffer from insomnia by distracting their minds so that they can fall asleep more easily.

Fountains also add moisture to the air, which can be especially beneficial when they are used indoors. Unlike noisy humidifiers, fountains give off a natural, soothing sound that relaxes the senses as it eases water into the air. Moist air is good for the skin as well as the lungs, making a person look and feel youthful and relaxed.

Fountains also help purify indoor air because the negative ions in moving water attract dust. This will help people who suffer from dust allergies. Negative ions are also thought to energize the human body. Our homes are filled with devices that give off draining positive ions. Enriching the air with negative ions from running water will encourage the body to increase serotonin, proven to ease stress and depression.

So put up a water fountain today and being to enjoy better health right away.

Having a garden is a great hobby. It looks great and it passes the time. However, the soil around your home may not be the best, or you may simply want to save money. Have you ever considered artificial plants? It's not as bad as it sounds. First of all, there are some really neat looking artificial plants that are virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. You can choose to use all artificial plants or just add them to your existing garden to supplement the look. Also, if you're tired of having your hard work destroyed by footsteps, even your own, consider putting some paving around your garden. Laying cement is easy work if you know how to do it. Otherwise, have a contractor do it. Tell him exactly where you want it, what look you are going for, and he will know how much you need and be able to charge you fairly.

Working in your garden sometimes requires stooping down and bending over to avoid crushing your plants. Having a walkway installed solves this problem. It's also a great way to show off your hard work to guests, as they will be able to tour your garden by walking all around the vicinity of it, admiring it without risking damaging or killing any of the plants. As far as artificial plants go, they are as varied as the types of seeds that you can buy for your garden. Have a perky sunflower all year long, or a patch of daisies. The choices are endless.

Summer is almost upon us, and that means time for BBQs and get togethers with friends and family. Getting your property ready to host the party of the century is easy with some simple touch lights to put along your paths and driveway, a decent charcoal or gas powered barbecue pit, and an outdoor heater for those cool summer nights when the party just won't stop. Gas is the cleanest way to cook and control the flame, and is relatively inexpensive. Forget about hibachis; they're too small. To host a kicking party, you want a mammoth grill that can handle steaks, burgers, hot dogs, kebabs, and veggies, too.

For more professional lighting, look into having some spotlights installed in your garden and around the bushes and driveways of your property. These will keep the party going late without disturbing the neighbours.

If you have a pool or Jacuzzi, you may want to install lights in the vicinity of that as well, if you haven't already. When it gets cold, your guests can go for the hot tub or stand by the heater. Heaters come in a variety of prices, so you won't kill your budget. If you deck out your place with lights, you'll probably want some energy efficient light bulbs to keep your electricity bill low this summer. Having fun can be cheap and exciting with some cool summer gear like I've just mentioned. Happy shopping, and happy summer!