tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-86225897530831863382024-03-19T03:48:28.769-05:00Abundant DesignAbundant Design, LLC provides Des Moines and Central Iowa with Edible & Sustainable Landscaping, Regenerative Land Use Consulting, Permaculture Design and Installation services.Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.comBlogger295125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-78690614683839117622024-03-18T14:33:00.002-05:002024-03-18T14:46:36.386-05:00Grow with Us! #hiring <p>It will officially be Spring soon! Site consultations, designs and tree pruning & grafting is ongoing and soon bigger installations will begin.</p><p></p><div>Are you motivated, hard-working, and seeking to join an award-winning landscaping company?</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-knVm4hxfn5w/X1fxjiT8G-I/AAAAAAAAEcc/gPsfeunF2WkRDyw4R792faXZQEQpo0eMACPcBGAYYCw/s2048/crew2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1405" data-original-width="2048" height="275" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-knVm4hxfn5w/X1fxjiT8G-I/AAAAAAAAEcc/gPsfeunF2WkRDyw4R792faXZQEQpo0eMACPcBGAYYCw/w400-h275/crew2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pergola build at the east side Healing Gardens & Food Forest<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Abundant Design is a small, but growing, permaculture based landscape design & install business located in central Iowa. We help people build resiliency through edible landscapes and gardens, establish wildlife habitat and conservation practices. We help provide experiences with nature and enjoyment of Creation in customer backyards, properties and communities. </p><p>Abundant Design is looking for motivated individuals to help bring these projects to life.</p><p>Positions involve lots of digging, planting of native and edible plants, shrubs and trees; moving compost, rock and mulch; some hardscapes, walls and other builds.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiam7mj61RJR0IUjTxeNAzx1Pi3VfcpK3v9x31qhA3TS3POVQkAckUpg3hUHXSAJn5ANxD-O6tonj3upLFoEtAmjj1cePs5kRjXeEGI6jspIPU7X9Tio4yfwzaE6YTcVVpSoYLHoV07jxueIek6WoJgRjadwY5BcTi1v8zdX7Kbw-Pqst8LZiSVb1NY=s2048"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiam7mj61RJR0IUjTxeNAzx1Pi3VfcpK3v9x31qhA3TS3POVQkAckUpg3hUHXSAJn5ANxD-O6tonj3upLFoEtAmjj1cePs5kRjXeEGI6jspIPU7X9Tio4yfwzaE6YTcVVpSoYLHoV07jxueIek6WoJgRjadwY5BcTi1v8zdX7Kbw-Pqst8LZiSVb1NY=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07CF0jyux7M/X1fxkbrkh8I/AAAAAAAAEcg/7FCOtWN59_EOSRRcqyYfh60M7GiKtjoFQCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/crew1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1301" data-original-width="2048" height="203" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07CF0jyux7M/X1fxkbrkh8I/AAAAAAAAEcg/7FCOtWN59_EOSRRcqyYfh60M7GiKtjoFQCPcBGAYYCw/w320-h203/crew1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh rain garden installs</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Seasonal Installers & Laborers</b></p><p>Perform landscaping and light construction for properties as directed. Tasks may include, but not limited to - shoveling rock, sand, mulch and other materials on the job site; moving boulders; trenching by hand or with a machine; operating a laser level for grading; plantings ranging in size from large balled and burlapped (B&B) trees to delicate transplants</p><p></p><ul><li>Must be physically able to work hard outside in various conditions</li><li>Must be able to communicate clearly and follow instructions</li><li>Must be respectful of customers and their property </li><li>Must be able to get to and from job sites</li><li>Must be at least 16 years of age</li><li>Knowledge of, or experience in gardening, landscaping, horticulture, a plus</li><li>Experience operating power tools, equipment and small machinery, a plus</li></ul><p>Great summer experience for students in conservation, natural resources, regenerative agriculture, and sustainability fields, or anyone interested in the same. </p><p>Pay ~$15-20/hr, depending on experience.</p><p></p><p style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; font-family: "Times New Roman"; letter-spacing: normal; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; orphans: 2; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-decoration-thickness: initial; text-transform: none; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U94dJUZev50/X1pOb3W6u4I/AAAAAAAAEgM/xPRb6q7dGM87Lnf9SEA_F7ZbGVBow2pmwCPcBGAYYCw/s2048/IMG_20190628_112509547_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U94dJUZev50/X1pOb3W6u4I/AAAAAAAAEgM/xPRb6q7dGM87Lnf9SEA_F7ZbGVBow2pmwCPcBGAYYCw/w400-h300/IMG_20190628_112509547_HDR.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mulching a new multi-species orchard on a southern Iowa homestead</td></tr></tbody></table><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>Full-Time Assistant & Crew Leader</b></p><p>Perform and lead team members in landscaping and light construction for properties as directed. Tasks may include, but not limited to - shoveling rock, sand, mulch and other materials on the job site; moving boulders; trenching by hand or with a machine; operating a laser level for grading; light grading with mini-skid steer, hauling materials; plantings ranging in size from large balled and burlapped (B&B) trees to delicate transplants</p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.permaculturevoices.com/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="875" data-original-width="625" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4UJU9D1ZE7I/X1fJQ0CeilI/AAAAAAAAEbw/och8nxw9pxcb1N2PYiigD3P7-omExuXOACPcBGAYYCw/s320/BCPCfront.jpg" /></a></p><li>Must be physically able to work hard outside in various conditions</li><li>Must be able to communicate clearly and follow instructions</li><li>Must be respectful of customers and their property </li><li>Must be able to get to and from job sites around the Des Moines metro </li><li>Knowledge of/experience in permaculture, gardening, horticulture, biology/ecology, and regional ecosystems </li><li>Experience operating tools, power tools and small machinery safely and efficiently</li><li>Interest in permaculture, conservation, regenerative agriculture and sustainability</li><li>Experience in permaculture, conservation, native plants and/or regenerative agriculture - Preferred</li><li>BS/BA/AA Degree in natural sciences, Permaculture Designer's Certificate, or Stormwater Best Management Practices training - Preferred</li></ul><p></p><p>Primarily working and training side by side with me through the early Spring, then independently or as a crew leader through the busy summer season. <b>Additional training opportunities possible.</b></p><p>Compensation commensurate with experience. </p><p>To apply for these positions, email your Resume/CV/Work Experience and references to <a href="mailto:AbundantDesign@hotmail.com">Abundant Design</a>.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-78209397163021075662024-03-12T16:35:00.000-05:002024-03-12T16:35:19.556-05:00Secluded Woodland Oasis & Gardens<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">After their new addition was built, these Urbandale homeowners saw it as their chance to include some new outdoor elements they wanted instead of just repairing the construction damage.</div><div><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLy5AAcsFEprbChUoYCk0Pnicz0NpEwVl4ThlBvE_bMsQ6Sj0hROlwfiqQAqfM8nP8ME9Wv2tp0oNAoK2epGM-5yHOZzQcAyYM1W6-3sTqHdX1ukl9BHQJqttX0ux1utIU1bZ2t8xZfFdXJZpnEA8u8hDVCLbMcgoS6iDiuGe7snsrem_7Q9WFyhv4SYw/s3780/A%20Patio%20Benchwall%20Firepit%20DryStream.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2835" data-original-width="3780" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLy5AAcsFEprbChUoYCk0Pnicz0NpEwVl4ThlBvE_bMsQ6Sj0hROlwfiqQAqfM8nP8ME9Wv2tp0oNAoK2epGM-5yHOZzQcAyYM1W6-3sTqHdX1ukl9BHQJqttX0ux1utIU1bZ2t8xZfFdXJZpnEA8u8hDVCLbMcgoS6iDiuGe7snsrem_7Q9WFyhv4SYw/w475-h356/A%20Patio%20Benchwall%20Firepit%20DryStream.png" width="475" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patio, bench wall, garden beds and stream behind</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div>It included a patio with bench walls and a firepit, vegetable and herb gardens. A dry stream directs stormwater runoff to a pair of rain gardens.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOSZKqTwkMOCgoAa6X3pPo0f4FULEROZMJTy-fMcXguKPZkAjrGh7FRH6R2XnK1xdy_urqYMsgrvl6AoWL-xu9aVDeqC20AnKUKErgCy8-ZrmC4FxSe2_uhAMz2vo9qx0Lri22rX-gptHkj7yCTFtqkdjbfehfdz9ZTvhZtX6IHc2FhnPSvYsoVOJ0wM/s4096/a%20Rain%20Garden%20Basin%20Prep.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeOSZKqTwkMOCgoAa6X3pPo0f4FULEROZMJTy-fMcXguKPZkAjrGh7FRH6R2XnK1xdy_urqYMsgrvl6AoWL-xu9aVDeqC20AnKUKErgCy8-ZrmC4FxSe2_uhAMz2vo9qx0Lri22rX-gptHkj7yCTFtqkdjbfehfdz9ZTvhZtX6IHc2FhnPSvYsoVOJ0wM/s320/a%20Rain%20Garden%20Basin%20Prep.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upper <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/search/label/Rain%20Garden">rain garden</a> basin ready for planting</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiGZlkyLLwgRCnd_M73S1xXZY4Pa8L6RLmfZVlN7vlCrP0OHYCfq7mHQMh3WFJM0FaDeMUDfi-tCaJdU6Uwh1lOFDtrnDI5_DVk0gex928n-OUxhKiNJ_7pcx01nmOOK1zu0nFMjEOzS_zrAwiwyB2LwS3B54fkevpEwXns-B5W64_y1SAK8Lu7GK7yw/s4096/a%20Rain%20Garden%20Pallet%20Bridge%20Dry%20Stream.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiGZlkyLLwgRCnd_M73S1xXZY4Pa8L6RLmfZVlN7vlCrP0OHYCfq7mHQMh3WFJM0FaDeMUDfi-tCaJdU6Uwh1lOFDtrnDI5_DVk0gex928n-OUxhKiNJ_7pcx01nmOOK1zu0nFMjEOzS_zrAwiwyB2LwS3B54fkevpEwXns-B5W64_y1SAK8Lu7GK7yw/s320/a%20Rain%20Garden%20Pallet%20Bridge%20Dry%20Stream.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bridge set over the rain garden outlet<br />to access the existing woodland paths</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><div>In the production area, herb beds run along the access path at ground level and are just at the edge of the available sunshine. The raised vegetable beds benefit from being a bit farther away from the house's shadow, and being elevated helps to get more sun on them too. Trellises were also added for some vertical growing space. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi43Bx5aU8eCxRv64VIwZtJReTWg8mMqU4hY10aHP9WHovlSLhyYp2yYxPTueQsEG2c8n3neK_FIsxhqbdYLlS-qzcjqqPPYmkD9W1273Q2GcRN6eB_O2u2Mm3ETLcstHCRLXymdjq54amyyDsaKjvd_GhOr0QLHs2y8fByH-RhAercOC5AHWHxeSuOuHQ/s4096/a%20RaisedGardenBed%20Trellis%20Herb%20Path%20RainBarrel.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi43Bx5aU8eCxRv64VIwZtJReTWg8mMqU4hY10aHP9WHovlSLhyYp2yYxPTueQsEG2c8n3neK_FIsxhqbdYLlS-qzcjqqPPYmkD9W1273Q2GcRN6eB_O2u2Mm3ETLcstHCRLXymdjq54amyyDsaKjvd_GhOr0QLHs2y8fByH-RhAercOC5AHWHxeSuOuHQ/w400-h300/a%20RaisedGardenBed%20Trellis%20Herb%20Path%20RainBarrel.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The block used on these beds is durable, looks great<br />and compliments the patio and bench walls!</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div>The garden beds were going in near an existing Hackberry tree and I was concerned about tree roots invading and stealing water and nutrients from them. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: medium;"><i><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2024/01/gardens-vs-tree-roots.html">See how we addressed the Tree Root issue HERE!</a></i></span></b></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkqW1T2-mzuUjvyNIUa3OjtTTL8sSztD32WLwKMK7n4UAluik85sNz5HF8RVq_HWZHPlY2KgCHY9nF3N57mqNdOJn0FVoKwOzXLhcXmWciyonYFrewdTlwOFH8p0Awbb1dM8AGRSzaoVqg_WTyvTmYv_wDb-nQi6zq2dBzA6ABEmGtauVhdwIp1Eh7H7I/s4096/a%20RainBarrel%20Chip%20Paver%20Path%20Garden.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkqW1T2-mzuUjvyNIUa3OjtTTL8sSztD32WLwKMK7n4UAluik85sNz5HF8RVq_HWZHPlY2KgCHY9nF3N57mqNdOJn0FVoKwOzXLhcXmWciyonYFrewdTlwOFH8p0Awbb1dM8AGRSzaoVqg_WTyvTmYv_wDb-nQi6zq2dBzA6ABEmGtauVhdwIp1Eh7H7I/s320/a%20RainBarrel%20Chip%20Paver%20Path%20Garden.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Rain Barrel catches rain for use in the gardens</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The rain barrel overflows into the downspout drain that connects to the lower rain garden basin behind the raised beds. Shade loving plants were predominantly used throughout the rain garden plantings - columbine, woodland phlox, sedges and wild geranium. A few pockets got more sun, so we could try for some more color using part sun and native savannah plants - cardinal flower and bee balm.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKTr0LRil6u8d58hpogn-GVWETVnVEoXVyzxyzGLU4IZj-UZ8kIhlQSMvm93XqvW17dE8MQzZeDLewn3PSkIiyVherxiGRdxpg0RsAzKY3sUDvDrhAPq84vdGw3_nHEWu_HCWRNySTGZ4wOYIeHBJxExbyglgl3W6AHFHOUc-Cu03aVcv0Ret5P_64JE/s4096/a%20Shade%20RainGarden%20VegetableGarden.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidKTr0LRil6u8d58hpogn-GVWETVnVEoXVyzxyzGLU4IZj-UZ8kIhlQSMvm93XqvW17dE8MQzZeDLewn3PSkIiyVherxiGRdxpg0RsAzKY3sUDvDrhAPq84vdGw3_nHEWu_HCWRNySTGZ4wOYIeHBJxExbyglgl3W6AHFHOUc-Cu03aVcv0Ret5P_64JE/s320/a%20Shade%20RainGarden%20VegetableGarden.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Thanks to <b><a href="https://beemerlandscaping.com/page/Fire-Pit-Outdoor-Fireplaces" target="_blank">Beemer Landscaping</a> </b>on the hardscaping assist!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmVkQ6Xjj05kcSrtahRTp0QWGVjZlFHygDQyqQ-9bZUoWtko0pPtCxkvf97iyC617mBbh3BmrJr_PxUDl7x09CMVM7ebp-AXB-4BYBc-owBjTwgIsuI4_lFdhNI4pK1QD_5RcKUFkx8WwsfnxAOpRQerpMQl6NrIsfSgduacMYswNrYxtZGfSJQ4n-kE/s4096/a%20DryStream%20to%20RainGarden.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVmVkQ6Xjj05kcSrtahRTp0QWGVjZlFHygDQyqQ-9bZUoWtko0pPtCxkvf97iyC617mBbh3BmrJr_PxUDl7x09CMVM7ebp-AXB-4BYBc-owBjTwgIsuI4_lFdhNI4pK1QD_5RcKUFkx8WwsfnxAOpRQerpMQl6NrIsfSgduacMYswNrYxtZGfSJQ4n-kE/s320/a%20DryStream%20to%20RainGarden.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We also cut and removed lots of <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2018/08/invasive-species.html" target="_blank">invasive honeysuckle</a> filling several dump trailers worth.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Reusing saved materials was high on the list of customer desires. The patio stone was selected to match pavers leftover from a previous landscaping project. These existing pavers were incorporated into the access path to the side yard, gardens and rain barrel.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ56pwCyonmAgkhvQnyw-2Xh92-i015DNggyF3aTh0Mwjb0V8ELSaHvZVqXrqu2ZiUP0TKc9Gy_dlW3KywWoemRONVRtmdn-3sy9oe5EafM9CKe3tciGqB8dHHxn3Ti64YsFAfm6YmcjLRLfX0cgf_RpRMFpOC-pjO5myCI7uFo6Ga0AW1ZmZya_zgdz0/s4096/a%20PaverPath%20TrapRock%20Upcycle%20Garden.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ56pwCyonmAgkhvQnyw-2Xh92-i015DNggyF3aTh0Mwjb0V8ELSaHvZVqXrqu2ZiUP0TKc9Gy_dlW3KywWoemRONVRtmdn-3sy9oe5EafM9CKe3tciGqB8dHHxn3Ti64YsFAfm6YmcjLRLfX0cgf_RpRMFpOC-pjO5myCI7uFo6Ga0AW1ZmZya_zgdz0/s320/a%20PaverPath%20TrapRock%20Upcycle%20Garden.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leftover pavers and stone from a previous<br />project we used for edging and steppers</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Several pallets of assorted limestone served as edging along the access path above, and a walking path expansion loop through the side yard along a new planting bed and retaining wall.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47JMAilv4LrnqaTryIInlna47cxPJuPW4QBp6pkHImJsI596ggX6EpcDBTY4e5wxLyp9mREGm6l8XydQKtDN-VIuoWX-r3KAcBlsM6WKwD1wdmaLGKRbW02U7A5SdNJQ90pcGDxZR1UsOjm7ynqxzzHhr45cY8KqYtZbSxqVTh9nZgWpoc8DDIAY75Hg/s4096/a%20Trailer%20Gravel%20TrapRock%20Guys.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47JMAilv4LrnqaTryIInlna47cxPJuPW4QBp6pkHImJsI596ggX6EpcDBTY4e5wxLyp9mREGm6l8XydQKtDN-VIuoWX-r3KAcBlsM6WKwD1wdmaLGKRbW02U7A5SdNJQ90pcGDxZR1UsOjm7ynqxzzHhr45cY8KqYtZbSxqVTh9nZgWpoc8DDIAY75Hg/s320/a%20Trailer%20Gravel%20TrapRock%20Guys.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark trap rock contrasts well against pale limestone,<br />but it's dusty!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9jro5-wNBv_IxV0UEIDvums9QDraGbuGY17kvxu5TwxAZaJLaoT-CvmWUGM-aqGcwwrNoYkwX5H8UWwHAgUE7F-A39iQVhh3k48wDt8Kf0CAJ3_jbi3PHO6c1nrahNf1VIgFaPreTkstVsB-4IMOS3RIV4-HMQExxqZH78qe67uHLbnCkk1gU1bMHcw/s4096/a%20Limestone%20Retaining%20Wall.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD9jro5-wNBv_IxV0UEIDvums9QDraGbuGY17kvxu5TwxAZaJLaoT-CvmWUGM-aqGcwwrNoYkwX5H8UWwHAgUE7F-A39iQVhh3k48wDt8Kf0CAJ3_jbi3PHO6c1nrahNf1VIgFaPreTkstVsB-4IMOS3RIV4-HMQExxqZH78qe67uHLbnCkk1gU1bMHcw/w240-h320/a%20Limestone%20Retaining%20Wall.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJtTmIiZe1jZ2A3a4qEq6ty-219CJnW-3RqyPYY9pn3_OYjJ-bmBZmUUl_VknzDJwX3szsJyMorhFWqGEXOK5AmikHvGDevzzSc4HneKN3BsShnsMO8XVS09BXVgMcf_jDO4JYUUxhv1RuIQnXt5vUaJa_Pl4kPv2SQ2KiFK1GY5JGTx783DHVuEVQZ0/s4096/a%20Wooded%20Path%20Rock%20Edging.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYJtTmIiZe1jZ2A3a4qEq6ty-219CJnW-3RqyPYY9pn3_OYjJ-bmBZmUUl_VknzDJwX3szsJyMorhFWqGEXOK5AmikHvGDevzzSc4HneKN3BsShnsMO8XVS09BXVgMcf_jDO4JYUUxhv1RuIQnXt5vUaJa_Pl4kPv2SQ2KiFK1GY5JGTx783DHVuEVQZ0/s320/a%20Wooded%20Path%20Rock%20Edging.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>The construction access was cleared of wood chips last fall. After the temporary driveway was used for a needed tree removal, it was dormant seeded this Winter with a customized woodland sedge and wildflower mix. Timing was perfect with 4" of snow falling that night.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBliQ_j7Na6nLgdrLEppOl5t2K4bwKWHJiZ-KPaexkO3oO35FG2uhfWjGLr50Z_73ShOWuHYr9Q3DtqLxyM4RH0zD4EZOiphIzxH4b3JkgRyjDcr-Tuh9qUtK5i6B4ilW2g1HlhC6U8K24WAgLxuhlsvIajekXl4YdjCg7-jvblTsTHsEyoUMyQFNpUHc/s3382/Dormant%20Seeding%20Native%20Plant%20Mix%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3382" data-original-width="2537" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBliQ_j7Na6nLgdrLEppOl5t2K4bwKWHJiZ-KPaexkO3oO35FG2uhfWjGLr50Z_73ShOWuHYr9Q3DtqLxyM4RH0zD4EZOiphIzxH4b3JkgRyjDcr-Tuh9qUtK5i6B4ilW2g1HlhC6U8K24WAgLxuhlsvIajekXl4YdjCg7-jvblTsTHsEyoUMyQFNpUHc/s320/Dormant%20Seeding%20Native%20Plant%20Mix%202.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAP18rGp4Wm69SygimT_E2cIBWE3U8V_g1pYoViPPQk2B6dc3PbJ1rrpH1VthAy710ey8AbpN_-tGHdcEo7RGBEyXTk2-yvg73shc0fBS1nVboFpk7J0pyXDD-KfrFvYK-0IZnoevMQAVBofuLyFrlTACVKKKEWXWcD3i7uC2CjDh3zMFFfg3FSErSaHw/s3113/4in%20PostSeeding.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3113" data-original-width="2335" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAP18rGp4Wm69SygimT_E2cIBWE3U8V_g1pYoViPPQk2B6dc3PbJ1rrpH1VthAy710ey8AbpN_-tGHdcEo7RGBEyXTk2-yvg73shc0fBS1nVboFpk7J0pyXDD-KfrFvYK-0IZnoevMQAVBofuLyFrlTACVKKKEWXWcD3i7uC2CjDh3zMFFfg3FSErSaHw/s320/4in%20PostSeeding.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>We love how it has turned out so far, and excited for fresh growth and blooms this season!</p><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG3SztM_j3VmUW8IjDmMCz-yrjeIBQAUxox6pWo9_tJ2KxpIPuij2LXrgXKCYIkTEUgTQSEgXwMUR8FtWW-yxM5HaIjlLmnJU4CirfswBqCmC7AaO6UejNRkwlQNEKdPmIeAm378cyF_AeYZDNELhn2EzYAgCqt6sv7InyGJWrUa_hUK_02EzTMgb189Y/s4096/a%20RainGarden%20BenchWall%20Patio.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG3SztM_j3VmUW8IjDmMCz-yrjeIBQAUxox6pWo9_tJ2KxpIPuij2LXrgXKCYIkTEUgTQSEgXwMUR8FtWW-yxM5HaIjlLmnJU4CirfswBqCmC7AaO6UejNRkwlQNEKdPmIeAm378cyF_AeYZDNELhn2EzYAgCqt6sv7InyGJWrUa_hUK_02EzTMgb189Y/w480-h640/a%20RainGarden%20BenchWall%20Patio.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-60452827887542992932024-03-07T15:24:00.000-06:002024-03-07T15:24:11.440-06:00"Creating an Edible Landscape" @ The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDTlMFi6iunrNvXumaTacK28nNMCJ2IyKsv7i83woQj-7r8jfpwccJyUW0aASSGoNbH78onSEweGZ0r_ADRezZd19l9VfPkVz6iUL4gh7Y1h0lgHnhSSt-FITqFW_Qp6skXGcJjTMUtyENmVS6nS9MR2VeRlBs0_z-JMqVqcnW3xtpL4KKEzCiRHPrP8/s1267/Greater%20DSM%20Botanical%20Center.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="595" data-original-width="1267" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPDTlMFi6iunrNvXumaTacK28nNMCJ2IyKsv7i83woQj-7r8jfpwccJyUW0aASSGoNbH78onSEweGZ0r_ADRezZd19l9VfPkVz6iUL4gh7Y1h0lgHnhSSt-FITqFW_Qp6skXGcJjTMUtyENmVS6nS9MR2VeRlBs0_z-JMqVqcnW3xtpL4KKEzCiRHPrP8/w541-h254/Greater%20DSM%20Botanical%20Center.jpg" width="541" /></a></div><p>This Saturday head down to the <a href="http://dmbotanicalgarden.com" target="_blank">Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden </a>for their Learning on Saturday series.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTOXiRDFTsMBfx7ZDrelXkah4JaB2ENpelz1sTRBYLxEwXbytx0e_psR14mIXch2Hgq5Pwwc2s5nE7PYtxsHIwkAe0FteBeZkGyV475CPtTsQqn5aCZyyvyyNt7iI4DN_JrM5XBd6WYAeOvSAfwgj8zPZalASCTxGaEkZExOjoUIL6wXxdZNjic0qem4/s4096/IMG_20220706_103818234.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXTOXiRDFTsMBfx7ZDrelXkah4JaB2ENpelz1sTRBYLxEwXbytx0e_psR14mIXch2Hgq5Pwwc2s5nE7PYtxsHIwkAe0FteBeZkGyV475CPtTsQqn5aCZyyvyyNt7iI4DN_JrM5XBd6WYAeOvSAfwgj8zPZalASCTxGaEkZExOjoUIL6wXxdZNjic0qem4/w326-h245/IMG_20220706_103818234.jpg" width="326" /></a></div><div><br /></div>We'll be presenting this week's topic -<div><br /><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Creating an Edible Landscape</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Learn all about edible plants that you can incorporate into your landscape in Iowa!</i></p><p style="text-align: center;">10:30 – 11:30 AM</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;">Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden</p><p style="text-align: center;">909 Robert D. Ray Drive (<a href="https://dmbotanicalgarden.com/visit/directions/">Directions</a>*)</p><p style="text-align: center;">Des Moines, Iowa 50309-2897</p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p>Get tickets here - <a href="https://dmbotanicalgarden.com/programs/adult-education/learnonsaturdays/">Learn on Saturdays – Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden (dmbotanicalgarden.com)</a></p><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQGB3sFHMD3bWMJJHg9LfKP5L8w9tgyNWg6f9P9rUnxTXKToCqh_Eznt9ysEQydSxm_Fo46WQU5qxi26J0lx1Wf9a_i96v12QSh3UwHlJidI_7JJDlMxupeHCSpihRKh7ED2UrzPUtJyWmvxMwuvePHLEjJusK-kFBjiBvXTez63NHTMEPzKDe1mDPng/s4096/IMG_20230526_154140119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiQGB3sFHMD3bWMJJHg9LfKP5L8w9tgyNWg6f9P9rUnxTXKToCqh_Eznt9ysEQydSxm_Fo46WQU5qxi26J0lx1Wf9a_i96v12QSh3UwHlJidI_7JJDlMxupeHCSpihRKh7ED2UrzPUtJyWmvxMwuvePHLEjJusK-kFBjiBvXTez63NHTMEPzKDe1mDPng/w400-h300/IMG_20230526_154140119.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">*GPS can be a little tricky- try this route</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNs_UCeaLytt9IQswC4nEFBPWIZXyERqKMUN3qXE7VmycBCjFxb3PgthnvO3-qH4WE9nKKS2jGkG8laRo8SrHWH_9F1xMnTPDRoLTFYFvo-sz2Wdu8OW1xKC3TSemJ_u_RjDToGYtJEN4klvUyBlNhp4SCohOdKTsypBBbE6ogg8QidvYLdhEGqbWyx4/s810/Screenshot%202024-03-07%20151037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="810" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYNs_UCeaLytt9IQswC4nEFBPWIZXyERqKMUN3qXE7VmycBCjFxb3PgthnvO3-qH4WE9nKKS2jGkG8laRo8SrHWH_9F1xMnTPDRoLTFYFvo-sz2Wdu8OW1xKC3TSemJ_u_RjDToGYtJEN4klvUyBlNhp4SCohOdKTsypBBbE6ogg8QidvYLdhEGqbWyx4/s320/Screenshot%202024-03-07%20151037.jpg" width="320" /></a></div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-46942957250141417772024-02-27T12:00:00.001-06:002024-02-27T12:00:00.144-06:00Rough Year for Monarchs<p style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wIQnds1KDbwlrQvS0m9ozKsjWAlJfsbptNKO7PTy0LLhxAymwSXIMBGWpsi_cJvf01KX3x-fnLF052hArN5c3S3vgTVqn21B3Amm1Llh0RCctZ-ZnTbUU8q961-0CBwOjeFZ5vWR1VzXu-qn_CnhtI-XAtniLkqA2WftCGEuAYWvSiqkAzBRScG1pyY/s4096/Monarch%20Echinacea.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8wIQnds1KDbwlrQvS0m9ozKsjWAlJfsbptNKO7PTy0LLhxAymwSXIMBGWpsi_cJvf01KX3x-fnLF052hArN5c3S3vgTVqn21B3Amm1Llh0RCctZ-ZnTbUU8q961-0CBwOjeFZ5vWR1VzXu-qn_CnhtI-XAtniLkqA2WftCGEuAYWvSiqkAzBRScG1pyY/s320/Monarch%20Echinacea.jpg" width="240" /></a></p><div style="text-align: left;">The numbers out of Mexico aren't good, and I'm not talking about the border crisis.</div><p></p><p>Overwintering Monarch Butterfly totals from Mexico have just been released. Nine colonies of monarchs were found and covered an area of just over 2 acres (0.90 hectares on the graph below). Nearly all of the monarch butterflies in the world are overwintering in a space that is-</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Less than two Football Fields! </i></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i>Or ten average suburban yards!</i></b></p><p>These numbers are down nearly 60% from the previous winter, and the second lowest number ever counted – the lowest was during the 2013–2014 season. </p><p>The graph below is similar to the one we have shared before and shows the general overall decline, but this year's numbers were a shock to those who follow monarch butterfly news. </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOfCEtm76aGjTwlOB_pXV26sLYz0cSkKJp1e6c6sAdqMywz1POqO7bDzCElo1KktOzIX-rg9iKRX6A2ZVVZTBO5JqTodVitgDkF4mQUpnvUuFkehyphenhyphenv39-coN2ywnSpXoTdRRnAhkh3OMbnxOrw0cEgu0TTFGkQxcv8-7HIRfhl-JBRhgTJvSk64kKP30/s2117/monarch-population-figure-monarchwatch-2024.png"><img border="0" data-original-height="1461" data-original-width="2117" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuOfCEtm76aGjTwlOB_pXV26sLYz0cSkKJp1e6c6sAdqMywz1POqO7bDzCElo1KktOzIX-rg9iKRX6A2ZVVZTBO5JqTodVitgDkF4mQUpnvUuFkehyphenhyphenv39-coN2ywnSpXoTdRRnAhkh3OMbnxOrw0cEgu0TTFGkQxcv8-7HIRfhl-JBRhgTJvSk64kKP30/w479-h313/monarch-population-figure-monarchwatch-2024.png" width="479" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We've talked about the plight of Monarchs before <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2015/03/monarch-watch-now-is-critical.html" style="text-align: center;"><i><b>Monarch Watch</b></i></a>, and our overall love of <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/search?q=pollinator">pollinators</a>. Loss of habitat is one of the major causes of their decline (as with most species), but this year was even worse because of the drought.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div><br /></div><div>"Chip" Taylor, Founding Director of Monarch Watch says that "Monarch numbers are at a near all-time low because of drought conditions last fall that extended from Oklahoma deep into central Mexico. Droughts reduce flowering and therefore nectar production, and monarchs need the sugars in nectar to fuel the migration and to develop the fat reserves that get them through the winter." </div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dztiQ7yAZI9YqrGzco6_URe61fg2b_TV3uv5e04yXExdzIFT71DL8VLwkBBre2-WTThG50J875jpS8muzpAVA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Common milkweed can go crazy in a landscape, but</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>it has nice big leaves for feeding monarch caterpillars.</i></div><div><p>"To recover, monarchs will need an abundance of milkweeds and nectar sources. We need to get more milkweed and nectar plants in the ground, and we all need to contribute to this effort." says Kristen Baum, Director of Monarch Watch.</p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;">What can you do to help?</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEBCHaToSWEPbT9VA_TWXBC6_l9l-OIW8koA8lP-rPKaUL8kH4bz0sp7RLwGaPxS2YgR6ky3dGdB8wMSpm1Gxy1nf7p_iikzZbb_sS3iBo20Q7h-SazDsZVt3QLcBygHfTeHutmPZrhnpjbeae3SFzcz0fCw4GETeeQr5Sng3BpDqnNKP7UVVuAsOAbI/s4096/IMG_20180826_143311444_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCEBCHaToSWEPbT9VA_TWXBC6_l9l-OIW8koA8lP-rPKaUL8kH4bz0sp7RLwGaPxS2YgR6ky3dGdB8wMSpm1Gxy1nf7p_iikzZbb_sS3iBo20Q7h-SazDsZVt3QLcBygHfTeHutmPZrhnpjbeae3SFzcz0fCw4GETeeQr5Sng3BpDqnNKP7UVVuAsOAbI/s320/IMG_20180826_143311444_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIH6PTOgwU-wU4kCyEyrsVEegs0lTxD3M5QTEgLUmONDMSb031NRBl8CuwGC6yEIm04ady5r4sBvyiFUyR-PUuCE_BiaX-QwqSsTBvhHe6hhxzFPJbddqbcVE4giB-SJzzoiUp1wCSGHfARVgAmOXPSniXDy359CAjgaOTRmGTwe3c0GKRmPu5atNxoA/s4096/IMG_20180828_173859682.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHIH6PTOgwU-wU4kCyEyrsVEegs0lTxD3M5QTEgLUmONDMSb031NRBl8CuwGC6yEIm04ady5r4sBvyiFUyR-PUuCE_BiaX-QwqSsTBvhHe6hhxzFPJbddqbcVE4giB-SJzzoiUp1wCSGHfARVgAmOXPSniXDy359CAjgaOTRmGTwe3c0GKRmPu5atNxoA/s320/IMG_20180828_173859682.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><p>1. Plant a pollinator-friendly garden using native flowers (for nectar), and especially milkweed, the only source of food for monarch larvae</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="abundantdesign@hotmail.com?subject=Pollinator Project&amp;body=I would like to help Monarch Butterflies on my property. Please send me more details!"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">We can <i>Help You</i>, Help Them! Contact Us!</span></b></a></p><p>2. Provide water sources and basking areas</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://georgiawildlife.com/out-my-backdoor-do-butterfly-boxes-work" target="_blank"><i>Do Butterfly Houses Work?</i></a></p><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlM8U3E2T2p3iNDVj9C92amQxbfTDGiEtXebWRjuRAhYOpuCrlHBnjuKdNeUBWlbOnW_DI89g8Uq5I2LgAFIUY-EPGGTYCdEI1KEmHzoKHNrEfhHWmBUswXVCPoC0kLuHT6yf4CxrhboECvoCDAtK9PZT_GeEf-JWB-1tCdcpYWnsi80RI1BNJU9Wd6k/s4320/IMG_20160903_175044456.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4320" data-original-width="2432" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKlM8U3E2T2p3iNDVj9C92amQxbfTDGiEtXebWRjuRAhYOpuCrlHBnjuKdNeUBWlbOnW_DI89g8Uq5I2LgAFIUY-EPGGTYCdEI1KEmHzoKHNrEfhHWmBUswXVCPoC0kLuHT6yf4CxrhboECvoCDAtK9PZT_GeEf-JWB-1tCdcpYWnsi80RI1BNJU9Wd6k/s320/IMG_20160903_175044456.jpg" width="180" /></a>3. Avoid using insecticides and other pesticides, and fertilize with natural compost</p><p><br /></p><p>4. Support pollinator conservation actions in your hometown, like <b><i><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2015/04/plantgrowfly-pollinator-program.html" style="text-align: center;">Plant.Grow.Fly</a>,</i></b> and get kids involved!</p><p><br /></p><p>5. Talk to your friends, family and neighbors about pollinators and how they can help out, too. </p><p><br /></p><p>6. Like and Share this article, and others like it, on social media.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><i style="text-align: center;">If you would like some milkweed seeds you can stop by the office and we will have some packets of common, butterfly and swamp milkweed to share while supplies last. These will need planted ASAP</i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">nothing is going to get better. </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: medium;">It’s not.” - Dr Seuss</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></i></div><p></p></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-52915810756606206692024-02-20T17:22:00.000-06:002024-02-20T17:22:15.086-06:00Tap Those Trees - with Video<p>Each year at the end of winter and beginning of spring, there are a few weeks of magic that happens. Tree sap starts to flow, bringing life from the roots back into the branches. Farmers across the northern US and Canada collect sap from their maple trees as they have for over two hundred years. </p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kxxBhhfIxaAHv2hf7I7nmccBHSmqvuvWC3-7RMVp7SU0FGmS42MCRSDJ0CNiEkc4iSFk5gh2ELP4E5xba1uGvQwLbECuh1dUiDXr0SAsriB_3sNPWeWv-8oxMc5gzAClC3HuRf9-sZF8W9zOlsaYr3puVsP2rNnCZ7VtUOK2xj3sV0uX2vpdJuS3Dio/s482/Spile%20SyrupTapper.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="377" data-original-width="482" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kxxBhhfIxaAHv2hf7I7nmccBHSmqvuvWC3-7RMVp7SU0FGmS42MCRSDJ0CNiEkc4iSFk5gh2ELP4E5xba1uGvQwLbECuh1dUiDXr0SAsriB_3sNPWeWv-8oxMc5gzAClC3HuRf9-sZF8W9zOlsaYr3puVsP2rNnCZ7VtUOK2xj3sV0uX2vpdJuS3Dio/w320-h249/Spile%20SyrupTapper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p>The sap is collected and usually taken to their "Sugar Shack." There, this barely sweet, clear sap is boiled down using time-honored methods passed down from generation to generation to produce the sweet, dark maple syrup we use on pancakes, waffles and more.</p><p>You can also take part in this historical tradition right in your own backyard (or a friendly neighbors)!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFKi6Nipk0SmIksSG4_dubT1MiAUAH5ml9hVVptXgMyjYhMXzDR47DmRnlK-QJ6qB_V5xMInal-eE6OEha_o1I0bDgjLhKTJYcVzUN_nu3Nus5Yw28HLD5L88O98uPGMThE_Eqc6U41hKqnUbVR9vLc6SDPsTNbS13_E7I9C9GS43KUd6tbuiy0v_-Q8/s942/Forecast.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="143" data-original-width="942" height="85" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYFKi6Nipk0SmIksSG4_dubT1MiAUAH5ml9hVVptXgMyjYhMXzDR47DmRnlK-QJ6qB_V5xMInal-eE6OEha_o1I0bDgjLhKTJYcVzUN_nu3Nus5Yw28HLD5L88O98uPGMThE_Eqc6U41hKqnUbVR9vLc6SDPsTNbS13_E7I9C9GS43KUd6tbuiy0v_-Q8/w562-h85/Forecast.jpg" width="562" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><b><i>This week's <a href="http://www.wunderground.com" target="_blank">forecast </a>looks great!</i></b></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYkIgjSlPgwHURHPs0Vd1ryYei4RiEr5qf5CTIlbNOb-qrERsg_StwgQSH2o_rCmGij4d1UDkoIntnm9ioNW5DXGVmYBzs4WPtypb5-iKnJNCYsYVWITjgmuXXQzdyChQYw-dN32u1-OLQSBop6H9WOy6EO5s7nz2gJgBcsAAmfKVlhbJujBGcetJZss/s4320/Fall%20Maple.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4320" data-original-width="2432" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyYkIgjSlPgwHURHPs0Vd1ryYei4RiEr5qf5CTIlbNOb-qrERsg_StwgQSH2o_rCmGij4d1UDkoIntnm9ioNW5DXGVmYBzs4WPtypb5-iKnJNCYsYVWITjgmuXXQzdyChQYw-dN32u1-OLQSBop6H9WOy6EO5s7nz2gJgBcsAAmfKVlhbJujBGcetJZss/w207-h368/Fall%20Maple.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>Sugar maples are best, with typically higher sugar content in the sap, but I had a garden design customer tell me he got over 40 gallons from a large silver maple in his yard! I think our tree is probably an Autumn Blaze hybrid maple from the looks of the fall foliage and how common they are in the suburbs.<div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7aX1Fppwx1E8AJHxaCBrUGZ8guz1ANop1OgHSEM09hGLsjJIWZGy2-YRQVQktJrQpsKahZ_hRmv-mQW6s7TuaLxGiqCAA0sfFjpOi7CPztLlvMHKoqLQssrx-48Z7ODyjkh7tzT1wXoHBDyfuof7PBULTnoK6cD3NYC6fGjACdXKhZL7DUfoOIkds4Cc/s2048/IMG_20160312_093720910.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1153" data-original-width="2048" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7aX1Fppwx1E8AJHxaCBrUGZ8guz1ANop1OgHSEM09hGLsjJIWZGy2-YRQVQktJrQpsKahZ_hRmv-mQW6s7TuaLxGiqCAA0sfFjpOi7CPztLlvMHKoqLQssrx-48Z7ODyjkh7tzT1wXoHBDyfuof7PBULTnoK6cD3NYC6fGjACdXKhZL7DUfoOIkds4Cc/w295-h175/IMG_20160312_093720910.jpg" width="295" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Maple Tapping Display at the<br />2016 <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2016/03/best-in-show.html">Home & Outdoor Living Show</a><br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>You can also tap Birch, Black Walnut and I've even heard of Butternut trees for uniquely flavored syrup.<div><p><a href="https://amzn.to/42K4ujb" target="_blank">Buy your Spiles, or Tree Taps, just like mine - HERE</a></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://amzn.to/42K4ujb" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="890" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEa4m8d5nvhrJQIqiCurz46THTU6jwYnneQ_or5wM-o6uVMCGqJ2JiW_AebW3XW4Eo6vmW67hZwlTii5fHwjMdo-En-SUOpi4RJ7TdttRyiq4EnDYlue8-bNUS6BEGZiuBlpsbJIyurS8w70MfDtuz_Fs6shQmkaA_vTKNEsk4fK6QaII6WKDveZgG7NA/w512-h206/Spiles%20CloseUps.jpg" width="512" /></a></span></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: left;"><i><a href="https://amzn.to/42K4ujb" target="_blank">These Hook Spouts are especially designed to hold pails with holes smaller than ¾ inch. The hook slides on behind the washer.</a></i></p><p style="text-align: left;"></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li><i><a href="https://amzn.to/42K4ujb" target="_blank">For use with sap pails. Hook to hang bucket & specially cut drip-edge</a></i></li><li><i><a href="https://amzn.to/42K4ujb" target="_blank">High quality construction. Durable and reusable for year after year</a></i></li><li><i><a href="https://amzn.to/42K4ujb" target="_blank">Use a 5/16" drill bit to drill a hole into your tree and simply hammer this tap into place</a></i></li><li><i><a href="https://amzn.to/42K4ujb" target="_blank">Can be cleaned by boiling in water each season</a></i></li></ul></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p>This video from our backyard tree demonstrates a simple "how-to" tapping method for you-</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="320" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aOdvWX_bgJM" width="385" youtube-src-id="aOdvWX_bgJM"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p><a href="https://youtu.be/aOdvWX_bgJM">https://youtu.be/aOdvWX_bgJM</a></p></div><p>From the Northern Midwest to New England and into Canada, the sap is boiled down into Maple Syrup. This is often done in large pans over an open flame outside, as boiling sap into syrup produces a lot of steam. And it takes a lot of fuel. Sap is continuously added as the water is boiled off, carefully making sure it doesn't boil over or burn the pan. It typically takes around 40 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup.</p><p>If you have access to enough trees and want to try making some syrup yourself, here is a great guide from the University of Maine Extension Service.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/7036e/" target="_blank"><b>How to Tap Maple Trees and Make Maple Syrup</b> (link)</a> </p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenSBSefgIA-JRNwH3ow2k6vJhRXFmW8Bp6kMNrfGFnvSLWqi9GGJ2tp9JGOjtrB5mZGGSpE0QJSs6jfvh1lxGPKuIWY28a2O_u6dIdyBlwPcVY_f5cSnyrD6L89LkM0VINIzI_nMXlecbqQrGbzvsRR3TcpC5MLEb8eUcosJcvnpu1OH4aOlUJP5Afpc/s4096/IMG_20230215_085527634.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyphenhyphenSBSefgIA-JRNwH3ow2k6vJhRXFmW8Bp6kMNrfGFnvSLWqi9GGJ2tp9JGOjtrB5mZGGSpE0QJSs6jfvh1lxGPKuIWY28a2O_u6dIdyBlwPcVY_f5cSnyrD6L89LkM0VINIzI_nMXlecbqQrGbzvsRR3TcpC5MLEb8eUcosJcvnpu1OH4aOlUJP5Afpc/s320/IMG_20230215_085527634.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>We just drink the sap since we don't have many trees and its high in minerals, other nutrients, enzymes, antioxidants, and more—an incredible, all-natural beverage with less than 2% sugar!<p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.chelseagreen.com/2022/tree-sap-drink/#:~:text=Sounds%20sticky%2C%20but%20you%20might,incredible%2C%20all%2Dnatural%20beverage." target="_blank"><b>You can learn more about Drinking Maple </b></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.chelseagreen.com/2022/tree-sap-drink/#:~:text=Sounds%20sticky%2C%20but%20you%20might,incredible%2C%20all%2Dnatural%20beverage." target="_blank"><b>(and other sap) at Chelsea Green </b>(link)</a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p>If you want to experience it in person the Indian Creek Nature Center near Cedar Rapids is having a Maple Syrup Festival on March 23 & 24 this year.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://indiancreeknaturecenter.org/gallery/maple-syrup-festival/" target="_blank"><b>41st Annual Maple Syrup Festival</b> (link)</a></p><p><br /></p><p>Enjoy the tastes of the season!</p><p></p></div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-47155191725678112772024-02-09T13:45:00.001-06:002024-02-09T13:45:32.615-06:00Parking Pad to Garden Transformation<p style="text-align: center;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRNk4Wq9NOiC4i68RETp3p7KU1J53u9FUg4giY7MIE87qnNowi7a_7SvlwqFpOxqc21wKAcqK6EFd6VStZ-Ph_8DSjn6gUbKD_NnFXyEkTL0Cfg77RkAczxQtBqxUu8V6KndKzv1t1rIYuMhqbYdJsZq7iV0f6ji9IyJDT4BfSiN-v7inbbYGWnzmlnX4/s4096/IMG_20210623_173238695.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRNk4Wq9NOiC4i68RETp3p7KU1J53u9FUg4giY7MIE87qnNowi7a_7SvlwqFpOxqc21wKAcqK6EFd6VStZ-Ph_8DSjn6gUbKD_NnFXyEkTL0Cfg77RkAczxQtBqxUu8V6KndKzv1t1rIYuMhqbYdJsZq7iV0f6ji9IyJDT4BfSiN-v7inbbYGWnzmlnX4/w400-h300/IMG_20210623_173238695.jpg" title="After Patio Edible Garden Retreat Sunset" width="400" /></a></div></div><p></p><p>These new homeowners had an idea for their backyard, and it didn't include the existing gravel parking lot.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6z7PXuTq4LkXa24-RA6_YfrZ0ozjcowKjt8ctHvNbrfI2o26CdfkwlNlah9HzM9XSR5YGCGSQ_D8Id27gTCEM4uq9jnh46S_Ed5VlKZ9i99Y9c2ZnkBgDohljzhCESzMhxADgft0p5U65b2Ym0mDKG-vFWjwXXwn5upyT7eL_ZsPWUybavJwN-sSiLg/s4096/Before%20Gravel%20Parking%20S.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6z7PXuTq4LkXa24-RA6_YfrZ0ozjcowKjt8ctHvNbrfI2o26CdfkwlNlah9HzM9XSR5YGCGSQ_D8Id27gTCEM4uq9jnh46S_Ed5VlKZ9i99Y9c2ZnkBgDohljzhCESzMhxADgft0p5U65b2Ym0mDKG-vFWjwXXwn5upyT7eL_ZsPWUybavJwN-sSiLg/w233-h175/Before%20Gravel%20Parking%20S.jpg" width="233" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWsV4dCuTt9irn0GTU82LBnY8SKjyqtoaj0Ur_58T5ShB1E0zYIjkUV8eMPj3NGv02td0pYCGKFVLC-8m-_gKArUttgsRzkeYgtQYqaHArdFeSbEWBKAA0UBGy14FcMB7gGlg3j4T_Fdr-YKcDtmygqypjSbgDm5IIvh4tYUPh4bmvudMCwcsr7_6HeY/s4096/Before%20Gravel%20Parking%20N.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAWsV4dCuTt9irn0GTU82LBnY8SKjyqtoaj0Ur_58T5ShB1E0zYIjkUV8eMPj3NGv02td0pYCGKFVLC-8m-_gKArUttgsRzkeYgtQYqaHArdFeSbEWBKAA0UBGy14FcMB7gGlg3j4T_Fdr-YKcDtmygqypjSbgDm5IIvh4tYUPh4bmvudMCwcsr7_6HeY/w233-h176/Before%20Gravel%20Parking%20N.jpg" width="233" /></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They also had significant yard damage from a geothermal system, that was not repaired the way they had expected.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwaWO8ZJJhz794uUMS90wfeBpbr8V3oR9V7sbl8Wt-_qAPaH5UrYwV3c2-N4qr8jnPTSaB9V46_rveE9sh4-WQRtQ4dZrAtiS6couvSpv0Lyr_o_bTT0WKI0zBCA_OZenmZSF1v3IISdaNy-QMWk2gKMIPjZDJDgq5YT1SsxT95ehyphenhyphenkhLvPVW1SIxMV8o/s4096/Side%20Yard%20Before%20Lawn%202.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwaWO8ZJJhz794uUMS90wfeBpbr8V3oR9V7sbl8Wt-_qAPaH5UrYwV3c2-N4qr8jnPTSaB9V46_rveE9sh4-WQRtQ4dZrAtiS6couvSpv0Lyr_o_bTT0WKI0zBCA_OZenmZSF1v3IISdaNy-QMWk2gKMIPjZDJDgq5YT1SsxT95ehyphenhyphenkhLvPVW1SIxMV8o/w235-h177/Side%20Yard%20Before%20Lawn%202.jpg" width="235" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFVx8pKRB3wj3XjgTj8ilbScNsJQg_wBBDO37cdKCGTootkkgNGfY2RNoQilOEdVn7vFcSz3nGtVRwNDhSZy3-ryOShPK3FbRosdzIHQiCAdmun5ZBUN8PbFwQfaRZ8jk3r4LEDC-2UT78HArYOQ02R0I2Yzf6IFvB8-KLoGzFYwJqfk58R7e0gspkBM/s4096/Side%20Yard%20Geothermal%20Scar.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGFVx8pKRB3wj3XjgTj8ilbScNsJQg_wBBDO37cdKCGTootkkgNGfY2RNoQilOEdVn7vFcSz3nGtVRwNDhSZy3-ryOShPK3FbRosdzIHQiCAdmun5ZBUN8PbFwQfaRZ8jk3r4LEDC-2UT78HArYOQ02R0I2Yzf6IFvB8-KLoGzFYwJqfk58R7e0gspkBM/w235-h177/Side%20Yard%20Geothermal%20Scar.jpg" width="235" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The goal was for a natural, relaxing space filled with as many edible and ecological benefiting elements as possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We began with three main goals- a garden, a patio and a fence. Garden beds were high on the priority list for clean growing fresh produce! A relaxing patio for their firepit, surrounded by a natural environment using some of their existing plants and lots of new natives. A future fence was planned to separate the new space from alley noise and traffic.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><span> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKk3nM9kdsVBRoRWVLFNtsdy0mZXNm-N270t77qeIdNhNnBrAOoLzgTYTorbTq0UQq3ic1dmVeWSriv1f4s85do7B3mrJXu0nRwYVcFfG0K4rUlWgEEfr91u_cPWB0ErLlgvjWzC9h1hnKp5v7FK4JELlUJ9cAF3uNdJZcPf-wI-vJXcCFj8izPTTrls/s4096/Landscape%20Plan.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKk3nM9kdsVBRoRWVLFNtsdy0mZXNm-N270t77qeIdNhNnBrAOoLzgTYTorbTq0UQq3ic1dmVeWSriv1f4s85do7B3mrJXu0nRwYVcFfG0K4rUlWgEEfr91u_cPWB0ErLlgvjWzC9h1hnKp5v7FK4JELlUJ9cAF3uNdJZcPf-wI-vJXcCFj8izPTTrls/w415-h312/Landscape%20Plan.jpg" width="415" /></a><div><div><div><br /></div><div>Many edible plants were hoped for both in the garden area and even around the yard. We put in as many perennial and edible plants as practical for this space. Rhubarb, asparagus, berries and even an apple tree.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Initial site work involved removing the gravel and breaking up the compaction of years of traffic. We left a circle of the existing pad for the base of the new paver patio.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidu5fItoVf7rX_CsYfsjScV3DZxEiyJLod408ZBA9S6XXq0gkG8cvzhBTUhOjmwfD_DvrQ1oTYPSCNcYwnX1kadPi5sLJPTPxD98dOwW6Ail2kPJjtGkub4mtJglMjIo0_eLBpniXi1REUkbuNnIBKaedC8SUVYiRlkWd4wC8uuoiRWfuxhrSn70OQ-K4/s4096/In%20Process%20Decompacting%20Parking.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidu5fItoVf7rX_CsYfsjScV3DZxEiyJLod408ZBA9S6XXq0gkG8cvzhBTUhOjmwfD_DvrQ1oTYPSCNcYwnX1kadPi5sLJPTPxD98dOwW6Ail2kPJjtGkub4mtJglMjIo0_eLBpniXi1REUkbuNnIBKaedC8SUVYiRlkWd4wC8uuoiRWfuxhrSn70OQ-K4/w241-h180/In%20Process%20Decompacting%20Parking.jpg" width="241" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WviSpEkAkkc0jaPjJZr5Tiu8oKvmY1AkkATuj0aOrGbbPaCFadtD-NDBFe7o2tKmcoQisC65qg8AjFxujSYZQUEElmqctmbTDEWg-6W3Cnpk61h7XLnE5FWsXBvXLEdUNqrv8JCd21jxIEknvnw9pyS8IHj3s9f0y3F9hEdgfBH2prAXYIBdRgsXKlE/s4096/In%20Process%20Grading.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WviSpEkAkkc0jaPjJZr5Tiu8oKvmY1AkkATuj0aOrGbbPaCFadtD-NDBFe7o2tKmcoQisC65qg8AjFxujSYZQUEElmqctmbTDEWg-6W3Cnpk61h7XLnE5FWsXBvXLEdUNqrv8JCd21jxIEknvnw9pyS8IHj3s9f0y3F9hEdgfBH2prAXYIBdRgsXKlE/w240-h180/In%20Process%20Grading.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEmf1FdKuhfUg890nVM8sQhzq5H16v4ay8CQr0pUaUzovV-hQ4-kO7sBU5p-pZhO4ChfI9WBRwFPW21hJro5TlZgLHeWhiAl6dFXBPBnrnpwuVcXjWEPjpNNCbLcUO8WcGoQr4xP9qKf66GkSuaSt7w7H8JhX2rI_MUWHfckN-Mfuwr-uTeCrvqPXEsQ/s4096/IMG_20210623_115505080_HDR.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHEmf1FdKuhfUg890nVM8sQhzq5H16v4ay8CQr0pUaUzovV-hQ4-kO7sBU5p-pZhO4ChfI9WBRwFPW21hJro5TlZgLHeWhiAl6dFXBPBnrnpwuVcXjWEPjpNNCbLcUO8WcGoQr4xP9qKf66GkSuaSt7w7H8JhX2rI_MUWHfckN-Mfuwr-uTeCrvqPXEsQ/s320/IMG_20210623_115505080_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>A keyhole style bed maximizes growing space on a smaller overall footprint. </div><div><br /></div><div>Raised frame beds allowed us to bring in a fresh mix of clean soil to grow in.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zEZexmgbEMPw0k6R4qfCpWbNFxKkNsjM8VZVO_QPjT4nAvMbEKw4_SuYx-kMlcyLkG2moDR_QUtvvCMykHicVolPGTeA6It5TDtkbVZKH7mhBmm9P70KCFLU8eVLq6QZIJl_a1hkhJERKM2VENIyjUcvrQj-Jrh-PYZBSzxa1VAQg077UwjG9nvAYDw/s4096/In%20Process%20Garden.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7zEZexmgbEMPw0k6R4qfCpWbNFxKkNsjM8VZVO_QPjT4nAvMbEKw4_SuYx-kMlcyLkG2moDR_QUtvvCMykHicVolPGTeA6It5TDtkbVZKH7mhBmm9P70KCFLU8eVLq6QZIJl_a1hkhJERKM2VENIyjUcvrQj-Jrh-PYZBSzxa1VAQg077UwjG9nvAYDw/w250-h188/In%20Process%20Garden.jpg" width="250" /></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We added compost to the remaining planting areas to add organic matter, build soil structure and workability, as well as encourage soil life.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGm03hJ1RCzfN7QdhcD4XHL_EwuH8DSB95AOxIi-Zvbz7xFuFm1jPyUUb_faEJ_-W979N845wNhoO9gut4TUNioW5ehLYYyyLEGSKyl80mHNoeERkEyAwtOavwW0h8S-a60_boj373mLZhyAj7IMjBGH43-GUJ5HGhnT8OvNX3Dj1Ar5rgYqBWFWvpmgY/s4096/Planting%20Area%20Prep%20Garden.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGm03hJ1RCzfN7QdhcD4XHL_EwuH8DSB95AOxIi-Zvbz7xFuFm1jPyUUb_faEJ_-W979N845wNhoO9gut4TUNioW5ehLYYyyLEGSKyl80mHNoeERkEyAwtOavwW0h8S-a60_boj373mLZhyAj7IMjBGH43-GUJ5HGhnT8OvNX3Dj1Ar5rgYqBWFWvpmgY/w400-h300/Planting%20Area%20Prep%20Garden.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With a limited space and south facing wall, this was a perfect space to espalier an apple tree. The downspout from the garage allowed us to capture rainwater for use right by the garden.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWJuHt-Z3maJ7L12obWnOP-65izv7I6IBnlKkQiZPtzd-yV9CNTXMbFcRTW9T_ml16yBGgYcUlGdI_dujjJzwad5TVW2uShowupA9c3ZYXYiUJFfIU3bm0K9e3HJV95mKp67Sk0kpyOs3L_Vw9VCr2VDGN6KNBnH20bZ87Rvh-dyXUJXBY36edVTGij0/s4096/Apple%20Trellis%20Espalier.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigWJuHt-Z3maJ7L12obWnOP-65izv7I6IBnlKkQiZPtzd-yV9CNTXMbFcRTW9T_ml16yBGgYcUlGdI_dujjJzwad5TVW2uShowupA9c3ZYXYiUJFfIU3bm0K9e3HJV95mKp67Sk0kpyOs3L_Vw9VCr2VDGN6KNBnH20bZ87Rvh-dyXUJXBY36edVTGij0/w299-h223/Apple%20Trellis%20Espalier.jpg" width="299" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzo7c9__NEL2Ui8vf655XB-ulzEKRgN3S4mxixDZyj_0YkY6MXUVr6Gj7AgU8BtfgjJc3OXi-y7uu0ghrBYeWAVJ2pGDfpH05MxWua5vrrT-heHJLm6-5iDwESzw3MD6wuEsEP3vAaZtCs3wXSp0ygGdwzIadf9YmINXMLsrhKkfqaBix6lR34YjHX2kM/s4096/Rain%20Barrel%20Wood.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzo7c9__NEL2Ui8vf655XB-ulzEKRgN3S4mxixDZyj_0YkY6MXUVr6Gj7AgU8BtfgjJc3OXi-y7uu0ghrBYeWAVJ2pGDfpH05MxWua5vrrT-heHJLm6-5iDwESzw3MD6wuEsEP3vAaZtCs3wXSp0ygGdwzIadf9YmINXMLsrhKkfqaBix6lR34YjHX2kM/w169-h223/Rain%20Barrel%20Wood.jpg" width="169" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Companion plants were included in this tree guild -</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i><span> Yarrow to attract beneficial insects</span><br /></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><i><span> Clover for nitrogen fixing action</span><br /></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><span><i><span> Chives to protect the trunk from rabbits</span><br /></i></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span><span><span><span><i> Other herbs for their antimicrobial benefits</i></span><br /></span></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A decorative Japanese Maple was the focal point for the back corner with an Asian palette, a Serviceberry up front for a native edible shrub and multiple species of native woodland and savanna plants along the neighboring garage. Bee Balm is great addition against the patio as it repels mosquitoes and feeds beneficial pollinators, and dwarf varieties soften the edge from lower to higher plantings. Narrow evergreens will frame the future access gate and provide shades of green in the winter.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOigdJoHz6wAu5TevuyXLKbgzyo3zKOIISI9aQfi4otAX8U0kK8C6ohnCZMwzehnCmJMu_AFLpsmj9nRYqyYITRIcP5APeqNfi9fm0PMFrCpRwpZ96UNxxVHOJbsVgSly5IlFXDaZkTpu0eib9OqqTZB1f4tLTSkH6C8heIXMUZeFK_yE-o4hjFk9WsRE/s4096/IMG_20210623_115515016.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOigdJoHz6wAu5TevuyXLKbgzyo3zKOIISI9aQfi4otAX8U0kK8C6ohnCZMwzehnCmJMu_AFLpsmj9nRYqyYITRIcP5APeqNfi9fm0PMFrCpRwpZ96UNxxVHOJbsVgSly5IlFXDaZkTpu0eib9OqqTZB1f4tLTSkH6C8heIXMUZeFK_yE-o4hjFk9WsRE/w400-h300/IMG_20210623_115515016.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Great work on the patio from <a href="https://beemerlandscaping.com/page/Paver-Patio-Hardscapes" target="_blank">Ben's crew at Beemer Landscaping</a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>We had just completed another project where a large amount of sod was removed. So, after leveling the damage to the side yard we were able to upcycle it here instead of only reseeding.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PyzDp98ZKOuKEfLr56-49wpKqIaCFbYepx1ryDQmIrUdtO-_ydhQkdj7YOWingF4E5J4kArqzehK4wof0T08K3jekm0xgoCA2DtvJxrb97o9bdqbgpgy5J0OlvUn8wzBwPQAcTAOUvdG8XzYW98q5_ZjLJyBa2QH5ZGclXsgOQXXQcvEur9qC3dEhA4/s4096/IMG_20210603_160818264.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PyzDp98ZKOuKEfLr56-49wpKqIaCFbYepx1ryDQmIrUdtO-_ydhQkdj7YOWingF4E5J4kArqzehK4wof0T08K3jekm0xgoCA2DtvJxrb97o9bdqbgpgy5J0OlvUn8wzBwPQAcTAOUvdG8XzYW98q5_ZjLJyBa2QH5ZGclXsgOQXXQcvEur9qC3dEhA4/w298-h223/IMG_20210603_160818264.jpg" width="298" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhvtt11LO17WZhDoy4JWh82i1dqSPc3sakQiUhlxL2JMKQW96crWOQflSn2oz5BErLd9EVfR0g89xrhNY0EI2ta_APxJ76IiqK-kMTOSfkY4J6Dqu910yfZ7kIu0zbS_ZvB_JzjrGMuIERLMdRJp6TDoVihMgvdjoRVtjrzPglUjPB-xE_eWZ-C7JMRlk/s4096/IMG_20210604_123957222.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhvtt11LO17WZhDoy4JWh82i1dqSPc3sakQiUhlxL2JMKQW96crWOQflSn2oz5BErLd9EVfR0g89xrhNY0EI2ta_APxJ76IiqK-kMTOSfkY4J6Dqu910yfZ7kIu0zbS_ZvB_JzjrGMuIERLMdRJp6TDoVihMgvdjoRVtjrzPglUjPB-xE_eWZ-C7JMRlk/w167-h223/IMG_20210604_123957222.jpg" width="167" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>The stepper path was re-laid through the damaged lawn area, using the existing pieces and we were able to match extras we needed. The path was also extended from the back sidewalk to the patio area and gate. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkGks5F5VGfytRK3ODyPhn8J_GvW0-ecvYcExGdeqg6O__hO10oSadGgupx4bZZ33vFznPpjVDkc1ae6IpEk7KoKFxfqPg1vf9h-WXV2iIWUmpza11hEtDguO1_I1l4XkFSS8Y7SmdriQUPfFVfRNZtx82Py0GKaj-bXMPuPGS-5iAEMx_uUS1n0Vl-k/s4096/Yard%20Path%20Repaired.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHkGks5F5VGfytRK3ODyPhn8J_GvW0-ecvYcExGdeqg6O__hO10oSadGgupx4bZZ33vFznPpjVDkc1ae6IpEk7KoKFxfqPg1vf9h-WXV2iIWUmpza11hEtDguO1_I1l4XkFSS8Y7SmdriQUPfFVfRNZtx82Py0GKaj-bXMPuPGS-5iAEMx_uUS1n0Vl-k/w233-h175/Yard%20Path%20Repaired.jpg" width="233" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2iYrBzuGUctEmLyHrTOoqepcoUyBNR89nwtYGqVwYYCjSo573wNURpE1mUNWU9izd-DRisMmj8ffDgKoX_dORL9-vgLdA97YnzNniZZCV__sD9adnghWuM3gRJ1z12gmUGgpXdBFKdv-Ru9w5LOyYg6F4GNY27triU-xwfdCmwHVmodpkXCR7SmqAFNo/s4096/Patio%20Steppers%20Sunset.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2iYrBzuGUctEmLyHrTOoqepcoUyBNR89nwtYGqVwYYCjSo573wNURpE1mUNWU9izd-DRisMmj8ffDgKoX_dORL9-vgLdA97YnzNniZZCV__sD9adnghWuM3gRJ1z12gmUGgpXdBFKdv-Ru9w5LOyYg6F4GNY27triU-xwfdCmwHVmodpkXCR7SmqAFNo/w234-h176/Patio%20Steppers%20Sunset.jpg" width="234" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Finally, everything was mulched and finished. A few weeks of garden care during their vacation, and then an additional Redbud tree for more afternoon shade. It was all ready for the privacy fence install.</div><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEkRnGyr42gE6dICMzqCLBN09TP-f_G4m-IlIyPW7XEcTmpdRa6IHghqkK5vA3Xl4k62dbK_YCJfn2WdP7WBSufRBcUaGX4T21I8GnELMMORwIWQBRYFG4_bO4ZubNb0AzjthvVWUsUaJwwz5NejSXCfddYstVTw6GZnHBAaygt6pW-TBxrQHr8VlmFs/s4096/After%20Patio%20Edible%20Garden%20Retreat%202.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUEkRnGyr42gE6dICMzqCLBN09TP-f_G4m-IlIyPW7XEcTmpdRa6IHghqkK5vA3Xl4k62dbK_YCJfn2WdP7WBSufRBcUaGX4T21I8GnELMMORwIWQBRYFG4_bO4ZubNb0AzjthvVWUsUaJwwz5NejSXCfddYstVTw6GZnHBAaygt6pW-TBxrQHr8VlmFs/w403-h302/After%20Patio%20Edible%20Garden%20Retreat%202.jpg" width="403" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Paver patio backed by a Japanese maple<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2Sq9klkmwoUXbmzQNfG-9WCjOpSh-ZTg-2sLaCbGEl7MiUi7GekfaCYqMunjfETjYhPRpX6Jx-Jp0vqaXnMyBZ0SaS4I9nIxeItW5R-1A4jX5gzOD6mJBKmLXBsOmcYrA_6qJYQ6jRw70s7CpEaXZLBtkdu0Xd6egeFCMhtUojIQYUv-IMd0pqP4QpY/s4096/Garden%20Patio%20After.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2Sq9klkmwoUXbmzQNfG-9WCjOpSh-ZTg-2sLaCbGEl7MiUi7GekfaCYqMunjfETjYhPRpX6Jx-Jp0vqaXnMyBZ0SaS4I9nIxeItW5R-1A4jX5gzOD6mJBKmLXBsOmcYrA_6qJYQ6jRw70s7CpEaXZLBtkdu0Xd6egeFCMhtUojIQYUv-IMd0pqP4QpY/w400-h300/Garden%20Patio%20After.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raised bed garden behind the existing hedge</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfNZuspzVKonrDyfG4_xmXgor5iCtTSv565hC0SqSiWzgVPBTe1GPECrfm9PNKz1hjsBtzBo09IAkUWPEBeFgDovC1O4yuQzDdVTHUObArvJTq6regh7S1d23bR4oIehqOSop42GViivN9rviuSh4WUZV5EovqtohXfHJWYs4tel_iE2u7NwmZKb5wXY/s4096/Prairie%20Garden%20Patio%20After.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwfNZuspzVKonrDyfG4_xmXgor5iCtTSv565hC0SqSiWzgVPBTe1GPECrfm9PNKz1hjsBtzBo09IAkUWPEBeFgDovC1O4yuQzDdVTHUObArvJTq6regh7S1d23bR4oIehqOSop42GViivN9rviuSh4WUZV5EovqtohXfHJWYs4tel_iE2u7NwmZKb5wXY/w400-h300/Prairie%20Garden%20Patio%20After.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pollinator friendly prairie natives benefit the garden too</td><td class="tr-caption"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: center;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><div>A little taste of Eden in the heart of our city. If you like this project or our others, we'd love it if you <span style="text-align: center;">shared it with your friends!</span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">This visitor couldn't wait for us to be done :)</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27hzE4yqV3H8hvHBoxmesXrNg8CCsKwYuexGr5gnfomPfCHU2UfPmodfwCeFXRLbiGjc36vCaLdBZJTVfyIgGLzrPcFpuKL9MkP9MW6Y6kK4nGZfuv6ebZbJCGo9LzJ-f_BpJEHMVS24K9Mgn28eVfX190xRenEeM3Aj_CBNTgtdCz30pOGLDuPfFjWg/s4096/Tiger%20Swallowtail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh27hzE4yqV3H8hvHBoxmesXrNg8CCsKwYuexGr5gnfomPfCHU2UfPmodfwCeFXRLbiGjc36vCaLdBZJTVfyIgGLzrPcFpuKL9MkP9MW6Y6kK4nGZfuv6ebZbJCGo9LzJ-f_BpJEHMVS24K9Mgn28eVfX190xRenEeM3Aj_CBNTgtdCz30pOGLDuPfFjWg/s320/Tiger%20Swallowtail.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swallowtail butterfly getting a drink</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-50725247308520113982024-01-12T06:30:00.008-06:002024-03-13T12:57:41.366-05:00Gardens vs Tree Roots<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXeEbS72RJYY6kyzhE8dZKOdmiQEUGUBTm6X5xu2ZWITsByG7C5Sh030aIQjlIhJPKzP_FpMhYkAh-gue2rfrxFdaiQa3Ly91MWWVzs4_260OYKDoLjHZZIEQwUMZh1hEUa_zme4oZv9sNQls3DEao-w5Zm_NZUe54Qh6T-dbHcFUDFZQ5ke4uTNtjFOY/s4096/IMG_20230526_154140119.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXeEbS72RJYY6kyzhE8dZKOdmiQEUGUBTm6X5xu2ZWITsByG7C5Sh030aIQjlIhJPKzP_FpMhYkAh-gue2rfrxFdaiQa3Ly91MWWVzs4_260OYKDoLjHZZIEQwUMZh1hEUa_zme4oZv9sNQls3DEao-w5Zm_NZUe54Qh6T-dbHcFUDFZQ5ke4uTNtjFOY/w400-h300/IMG_20230526_154140119.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Durable block wall raised beds with... <i>Under Armor !?!?</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p>These garden beds, installed this summer, were going in near an existing Hackberry tree. Although near the current drip line, the footprint was small, and the installation shouldn't damage its roots any more than the other construction traffic. </p><p>However, future growth would mean that the root system would be expanding. I was concerned about these tree roots invading the raised beds and stealing water and nutrients from the plants growing there. </p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PGwxDT-9ipXxEFBPvvFFrYq6B0CD0cocqRE832brymEWS8qQXJK3t5vSdISBqp3omdhsMktIwJwlAVBIW6sut_HeJKrEN6daG9ZAVb02eh4eR5SeJkHMeOlgs2cSBTkS4A5H-xpqCi8I-E30ARyE1BBpAMWI5AvWUtencoP6CJqskWdDKU_YexIe-ho/s4096/IMG_20200603_134820119_HDR.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9PGwxDT-9ipXxEFBPvvFFrYq6B0CD0cocqRE832brymEWS8qQXJK3t5vSdISBqp3omdhsMktIwJwlAVBIW6sut_HeJKrEN6daG9ZAVb02eh4eR5SeJkHMeOlgs2cSBTkS4A5H-xpqCi8I-E30ARyE1BBpAMWI5AvWUtencoP6CJqskWdDKU_YexIe-ho/w231-h308/IMG_20200603_134820119_HDR.jpg" width="231" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original SPROUT Garden</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>At the old <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2021/02/drake-university-food-forest-and-sprout.html" target="_blank">Sprout Garden</a> location, nearby Oak trees had nearly filled the existing raised beds with roots. The tending gardeners said yields had gone down over the years, but guessed it was due to diminishing soil quality and fertility over the years. <p>When we reclaimed the wood to use in the new project, we found that the remaining soil was almost a solid "loaf" of tree roots!</p><p><br /></p><p>I've have also dealt with them in my own garden as well. Maple trees love to send out exploring feeder roots!</p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div>To address this potential problem, we wanted to create an air gap to encourage air pruning of the tree roots instead of letting them invade the growing bed. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_aWetj-D-c7PTlQ-3yYxhggxOhURf6SBJnzEVO4Vx1F1RMmv4RaocdHVuC7tqu1qGzw7Bvw9rGuDvQ_zHidsqMWvZfVWblPyKidU8jCHrlyBPg7WdOtxlH4Gc_OHZPgIelokZ9MrDF9yWe3vKngxRTnpaoqHtHQOMyjeSI99mCjiAirZxEgPWcXDfyQ/s542/Screenshot%202023-10-03%20112258.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="542" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0_aWetj-D-c7PTlQ-3yYxhggxOhURf6SBJnzEVO4Vx1F1RMmv4RaocdHVuC7tqu1qGzw7Bvw9rGuDvQ_zHidsqMWvZfVWblPyKidU8jCHrlyBPg7WdOtxlH4Gc_OHZPgIelokZ9MrDF9yWe3vKngxRTnpaoqHtHQOMyjeSI99mCjiAirZxEgPWcXDfyQ/w400-h271/Screenshot%202023-10-03%20112258.png" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The gap would be filled with river rock to maintain larger airspaces to discourage invading roots yet support the growing mix above. Starting at the bottom -</div><div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>We added heavy fabric to keep the rock separated from the existing soil.</li><li>Then we added a 2-4" layer of river rock, to keep air pockets open.</li><li>Before filling the beds with soil, another layer of fabric was added.</li></ol></div><div>If the growing mix was allowed to settle into the rock it would eliminate the desired airspace.</div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7vJI_GpWI7ns_9Oqd7vInVsQOqIdJoMzMtZrYvhUPdfoU6jwJ7j8dDR1CLc8PmuQ1TwPVxQO7JVU4s279B2eZs4GHiHh5Cwqg30oaIfu8IPjtNeSDyTPJ1AGCfmmcxaHvbrVoJpirqJpgZHN_9i4OCoeazBa-I0Llc6DYBsfKZ92K2T1KCrycHZAY-0/s4096/IMG_20230519_125535216.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-7vJI_GpWI7ns_9Oqd7vInVsQOqIdJoMzMtZrYvhUPdfoU6jwJ7j8dDR1CLc8PmuQ1TwPVxQO7JVU4s279B2eZs4GHiHh5Cwqg30oaIfu8IPjtNeSDyTPJ1AGCfmmcxaHvbrVoJpirqJpgZHN_9i4OCoeazBa-I0Llc6DYBsfKZ92K2T1KCrycHZAY-0/s320/IMG_20230519_125535216.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivspyHnHEqkn4nJWm9e8azycmrO9IGfN3OCMRLDMgBwH__jVOgLmVYhAh1mBvGldIpJm430b3kKJI0vLaUXcqHgymElUnSqg_u5WA7V4GQ4t4-fPWQY6Yz401jLMyTCDbO3pJVH8PJLFzYeByW9RS4pP4rRjlml4GGGGt7ihVxjKWIswQLp5k0_Bvlck/s4096/IMG_20230519_125555725_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivspyHnHEqkn4nJWm9e8azycmrO9IGfN3OCMRLDMgBwH__jVOgLmVYhAh1mBvGldIpJm430b3kKJI0vLaUXcqHgymElUnSqg_u5WA7V4GQ4t4-fPWQY6Yz401jLMyTCDbO3pJVH8PJLFzYeByW9RS4pP4rRjlml4GGGGt7ihVxjKWIswQLp5k0_Bvlck/s320/IMG_20230519_125555725_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>The vegetable beds are situated just outside the house's shadow most of the year, and being elevated helps to get more sun on them too. </div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjtiDt2Z5qamsZFDKammiXpCsZ9xaLG6cWrKvlCxh1296NIREdTlOEnSdmnzfQ70iVCzTnTXFdlD8f_V_I3Vs_BoPkbNIO5qCTiOFReBNLbz5s2R48NCdE9cuQgFZYOKtbpoGUo8HtUCUs6aJ0MyoWBMx0u92oipLIblHSG_w-be8MQtKdAXLH50fEpA8/s4096/IMG_20230526_152935544.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjtiDt2Z5qamsZFDKammiXpCsZ9xaLG6cWrKvlCxh1296NIREdTlOEnSdmnzfQ70iVCzTnTXFdlD8f_V_I3Vs_BoPkbNIO5qCTiOFReBNLbz5s2R48NCdE9cuQgFZYOKtbpoGUo8HtUCUs6aJ0MyoWBMx0u92oipLIblHSG_w-be8MQtKdAXLH50fEpA8/w400-h300/IMG_20230526_152935544.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Trellises were added for some vertical growing space.</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><b><i><span style="font-size: medium;">More to updates to come on <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2024/03/secluded-woodland-oasis-gardens.html">this project</a>!</span></i></b></div><div><br /></div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-77505493508551257582024-01-04T15:55:00.000-06:002024-01-04T15:55:09.278-06:00No Mow - New ConstructionAnother large project was started in the previous season incorporating stormwater best management practices into a full native planting that includes basically the entire property. <div><br /></div><div>The home was built for a gentleman that wanted to be very responsible and not contribute to <i>ANY </i><a href="https://raincampaign.org/funding-resources/" target="_blank">stormwater runoff, erosion and flooding</a>.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Q87wxai8npAqez397CgrcdfdHfEj4f9IxFyIuDQXY8Jv6rYb_ISz5S_OjZOIpsKIXJTlkcf25YF4KoVEI2MqOxNFTTSy0Cs3GMX76h9E2_yiZ7vY_VAHp9HvzVwrps72goOU2MviACHCOc-C5QOE3Rhbd4WoWab3KsU2XMrxZ83T76rROZcGC6in/s4096/IMG_20220812_082916688.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Q87wxai8npAqez397CgrcdfdHfEj4f9IxFyIuDQXY8Jv6rYb_ISz5S_OjZOIpsKIXJTlkcf25YF4KoVEI2MqOxNFTTSy0Cs3GMX76h9E2_yiZ7vY_VAHp9HvzVwrps72goOU2MviACHCOc-C5QOE3Rhbd4WoWab3KsU2XMrxZ83T76rROZcGC6in/w400-h300/IMG_20220812_082916688.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div>Woodland & savanna styled plantings in the front incorporated a walking path, some native shrubs and smaller trees. Several invasive burning bushes were taken out. A rain garden captures the front down spouts as well as most of the driveway runoff.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExYugLh-ycsoYps2aNgFiMHYuyR2xWacJJYwWOUWWEnsn2UTlop0zqto5qwc8VT9PYyogjusYqW76huE8VyJOwNXuRj_DLMi2oFQHtslMmScg7NS2Az7VSsPlKJ3Ab01WjOkPDhH0jpxVvCkTT5hY6GRCibhtW4oQXTjgo1RgPPK8nokqQwrcvqu9/s4096/IMG_20220725_141316976.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjExYugLh-ycsoYps2aNgFiMHYuyR2xWacJJYwWOUWWEnsn2UTlop0zqto5qwc8VT9PYyogjusYqW76huE8VyJOwNXuRj_DLMi2oFQHtslMmScg7NS2Az7VSsPlKJ3Ab01WjOkPDhH0jpxVvCkTT5hY6GRCibhtW4oQXTjgo1RgPPK8nokqQwrcvqu9/s320/IMG_20220725_141316976.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front yard #Before</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMhSt6lppDoxLDafTY3b4mvWWpCt8uMWz3Cr21M7Kaj1ceyTioNu3HoP94GZTzQBUi0SAjvKZEymdPgoC63gKYAtADN1PZlPFVBV-EXnPXHM-0IywsNJXjjLZwroDgXN4BBxzRyUl1OVBXQDKjy7AHZ0O2WVkFIlGyszY4lV1R5szMxOU7Dbfi7Ss/s4096/IMG_20220804_135229030_HDR.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMhSt6lppDoxLDafTY3b4mvWWpCt8uMWz3Cr21M7Kaj1ceyTioNu3HoP94GZTzQBUi0SAjvKZEymdPgoC63gKYAtADN1PZlPFVBV-EXnPXHM-0IywsNJXjjLZwroDgXN4BBxzRyUl1OVBXQDKjy7AHZ0O2WVkFIlGyszY4lV1R5szMxOU7Dbfi7Ss/s320/IMG_20220804_135229030_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zVIfZ75dg5NfUpQX0BoGMOJSc_s45jVLbUDeptK0vqEL5fJQV1KxAaR05S86Ql49iSaeqefin6dolha9iN83G78IRtvJ7WuYVwvTRm5WxMtlKx06LNN-efUDztawNg1DOOL-dqaxvxcPwKOMdmMVAMNOlZ0c6MsRXWf3e3g8_VEKKyiRfmVBd7Pd/s4096/IMG_20220804_135133601_HDR.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6zVIfZ75dg5NfUpQX0BoGMOJSc_s45jVLbUDeptK0vqEL5fJQV1KxAaR05S86Ql49iSaeqefin6dolha9iN83G78IRtvJ7WuYVwvTRm5WxMtlKx06LNN-efUDztawNg1DOOL-dqaxvxcPwKOMdmMVAMNOlZ0c6MsRXWf3e3g8_VEKKyiRfmVBd7Pd/s320/IMG_20220804_135133601_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDzk2VbjHkUPhVSPlOMJ_lTHVa7SbV8m8UL3sdGkPCsQp6PgVZgH-j2So9CpyNjbTmQ8Csp_xw3o5TuXUaSCeqwghgJSSpGlIkkNo3JLWra75GRFQvDohj0uYBaHU2sBhCSr8yY_2BaRbOMTe6eIIyVVGUFDqzYCQYFjZzm-UBlPphbiWIibWgeLg/s4096/IMG_20220816_091339513.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrDzk2VbjHkUPhVSPlOMJ_lTHVa7SbV8m8UL3sdGkPCsQp6PgVZgH-j2So9CpyNjbTmQ8Csp_xw3o5TuXUaSCeqwghgJSSpGlIkkNo3JLWra75GRFQvDohj0uYBaHU2sBhCSr8yY_2BaRbOMTe6eIIyVVGUFDqzYCQYFjZzm-UBlPphbiWIibWgeLg/w400-h300/IMG_20220816_091339513.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Front yard - planted and mulched</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>The front Rain Garden was full after a storm in the night but had drained by early afternoon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbdbH_zzs9t4_kGSFu7H3oa2C4JIQ6Nd6SjK6qvHov2z5so_oxyBsaP1wBDn4NnW3HCfpvOzY8Eb5aNK5ElYNSz5Y25VIwN9T0mHElmvnEio17JMNSmgZCUYJNywZKk7lXyB48QafH9s6K9g2UnYbWt0aSd6bFTuZQ8_aWf7i5BaauS5FNYoix5GP5KA/s640/-New%20RG%20full.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbbdbH_zzs9t4_kGSFu7H3oa2C4JIQ6Nd6SjK6qvHov2z5so_oxyBsaP1wBDn4NnW3HCfpvOzY8Eb5aNK5ElYNSz5Y25VIwN9T0mHElmvnEio17JMNSmgZCUYJNywZKk7lXyB48QafH9s6K9g2UnYbWt0aSd6bFTuZQ8_aWf7i5BaauS5FNYoix5GP5KA/s320/-New%20RG%20full.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8qvfzg3zFd_xMA76fsdh3qOmfsHQXikt9tq_O1yz3L4ocVE4550i5Twqg5TNQSRHLQVXaOKZQt5PN4o8ykLDCpi8A4CnQY-JR4lXB03U79tUFyUb-j8PruJze7EVxh9l3U7Cj8Bl8e8sTZJUFevGyRYh_DtIYJJfDtOckrN0AFIil2NxAnyMbXbZLTdU/s800/-New%20RG%20empty.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8qvfzg3zFd_xMA76fsdh3qOmfsHQXikt9tq_O1yz3L4ocVE4550i5Twqg5TNQSRHLQVXaOKZQt5PN4o8ykLDCpi8A4CnQY-JR4lXB03U79tUFyUb-j8PruJze7EVxh9l3U7Cj8Bl8e8sTZJUFevGyRYh_DtIYJJfDtOckrN0AFIil2NxAnyMbXbZLTdU/s320/-New%20RG%20empty.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Prairie party out back!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiC02bcK3NwCH_kJBXOSbXiOemhj6xfP-Xykx-5ROLzXawPh1ukl8E7aTGeEHKxeZSXR2YYWekdpjqTMXtNdyLhl-PuJc5pEJA_Ui7th55lTuqG7dQigIVEwoiCJcn-4tR7eGPPsuWlnvwtmWuJDVAKr5OQPt6HxcoJokMMNSKZ0eT8xTWsuE-lAFe/s4096/IMG_20220804_135101724.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiC02bcK3NwCH_kJBXOSbXiOemhj6xfP-Xykx-5ROLzXawPh1ukl8E7aTGeEHKxeZSXR2YYWekdpjqTMXtNdyLhl-PuJc5pEJA_Ui7th55lTuqG7dQigIVEwoiCJcn-4tR7eGPPsuWlnvwtmWuJDVAKr5OQPt6HxcoJokMMNSKZ0eT8xTWsuE-lAFe/w320-h240/IMG_20220804_135101724.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>To get the back yard looking good, designed plantings of established plants and a large rain garden up closer to the house and deck. </div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1nY3f1nNgT8FpDuSSxRhggZT-sU_kkBjQz4shnoe8kNBnc6AnTrgcJTd3m4Rcfhex0Nu1UXgwNISTXdeoVugOpo3L7ai2cstE7_WUZ--PsgCRL_FEHzZ10F8BC0p8pBVuSa4U9kPg2mDqrENMRMZrS_z2Ri4tBzhMLs0Re4ZWZo3gj5pNAk9eNTSs/s4096/IMG_20220805_123208016.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1nY3f1nNgT8FpDuSSxRhggZT-sU_kkBjQz4shnoe8kNBnc6AnTrgcJTd3m4Rcfhex0Nu1UXgwNISTXdeoVugOpo3L7ai2cstE7_WUZ--PsgCRL_FEHzZ10F8BC0p8pBVuSa4U9kPg2mDqrENMRMZrS_z2Ri4tBzhMLs0Re4ZWZo3gj5pNAk9eNTSs/s320/IMG_20220805_123208016.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The deck provides prime viewing of the eventual prairie habitat, as well as access to the paths through it.</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9p6DpO-1B4gMAd4Ur7uLg0vaDhESezdsa3EWQBitpBKgeCAx3KoH1nuSKh41lyyaw8H2Av-DllKBtzPBkNoyuvHjkdW7Id2mhC9zdrsB6jSEDjjVj4sJ-0f8ql-PCH_3yEiSwdttzuUe4Mkvmw9Hv92uZLLIDjda2pf-yITxoz7VgMCzZFY4d15pLrns/s4096/IMG_20220819_120738542.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9p6DpO-1B4gMAd4Ur7uLg0vaDhESezdsa3EWQBitpBKgeCAx3KoH1nuSKh41lyyaw8H2Av-DllKBtzPBkNoyuvHjkdW7Id2mhC9zdrsB6jSEDjjVj4sJ-0f8ql-PCH_3yEiSwdttzuUe4Mkvmw9Hv92uZLLIDjda2pf-yITxoz7VgMCzZFY4d15pLrns/w400-h300/IMG_20220819_120738542.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Prairie with rain garden view from the deck</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div>Further back targeted native seedings were planned to reduce the initial budget. To accomplish this, 8000 square feet of yard was <a href="https://www.prairiemoon.com/blog/site-prep" target="_blank">tilled and "Solarized"</a> for several weeks to kill the grass and shallow weed seed bank.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfA-WoGiY9QTHngDBDR02Gmq8ugkZrx6DdcXpmAHfmWF-YXL1UFdblOEgqd3VqsPruTD64E1PLLSf4VOliCPSII9b_kL7y7VKU-QjWVX2G2dB27iAoZiW_bZcINcmUZjcjvJtKlaLenKQV6Lt8CSi9EJ-MtzyZsBqGgU0lTn10C-kDCyx1VsFzRCnD/s4096/IMG_20220803_145026694_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfA-WoGiY9QTHngDBDR02Gmq8ugkZrx6DdcXpmAHfmWF-YXL1UFdblOEgqd3VqsPruTD64E1PLLSf4VOliCPSII9b_kL7y7VKU-QjWVX2G2dB27iAoZiW_bZcINcmUZjcjvJtKlaLenKQV6Lt8CSi9EJ-MtzyZsBqGgU0lTn10C-kDCyx1VsFzRCnD/s320/IMG_20220803_145026694_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Solarizing 8000sf of yard</td></tr></tbody></table><br />Around September, we removed the plastic sheeting and planted an oat <a href="https://practicalfarmers.org/programs/cover-crops/" target="_blank">cover crop </a>to hold soil and keep weeds at bay. Prior to the cover crop seeding, we pulled and <i><a href="https://amzn.to/47jNLUx" target="_blank">flamed </a></i>the remaining weeds that took advantage of tears in the plastic caused by curious deer.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXu-jpjbmRhjuUZ26TUECau33eESDcsV-rVAp4cfTm4Pm8qVdxupqtr3Z8fGOkCba_jfSv-Dgq9Vkh8kWrqyqraxhLYrESZglxooZ5AmrZjT63Ks9tuNJByVvuIMLF_aS0m-BMphfy1HlX-e6CEPVWY-BcZ2tZSy0SH6By0_ICfcwQMAhpEMTudNgs/s4096/IMG_20220811_171537969_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXu-jpjbmRhjuUZ26TUECau33eESDcsV-rVAp4cfTm4Pm8qVdxupqtr3Z8fGOkCba_jfSv-Dgq9Vkh8kWrqyqraxhLYrESZglxooZ5AmrZjT63Ks9tuNJByVvuIMLF_aS0m-BMphfy1HlX-e6CEPVWY-BcZ2tZSy0SH6By0_ICfcwQMAhpEMTudNgs/w400-h300/IMG_20220811_171537969_HDR.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>We left a ~6' strip of mowed turf lawn on the South edge to be good neighbors. We put in some sod around the areas damaged by the construction and existing lawn behind. The neighbors to the North were fine with the savanna and prairie plantings coming up to their fence. They had somewhat similar plans for their backyard. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoi6IQZ9jOjPK0iyA3DCdMmJ6_QhwnOOIU4y0RrwSorqCFsZxNU_Hk65htrJGXBgKIlCJpmGfSaMtpaAw84lGGdEpBBAm2pMsDeyv4RXMHhEVqDrs3go_N_d4SbRRorQBIJiYn-jRdNPf3usBxuw4URTz78t6o2oqyAsSbXNCdmVdgmRW4uLtxKm7s/s4096/IMG_20220815_121105302.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoi6IQZ9jOjPK0iyA3DCdMmJ6_QhwnOOIU4y0RrwSorqCFsZxNU_Hk65htrJGXBgKIlCJpmGfSaMtpaAw84lGGdEpBBAm2pMsDeyv4RXMHhEVqDrs3go_N_d4SbRRorQBIJiYn-jRdNPf3usBxuw4URTz78t6o2oqyAsSbXNCdmVdgmRW4uLtxKm7s/w179-h238/IMG_20220815_121105302.jpg" width="179" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzD6Rwdv6UVId8wsCHniHLbeFVRky_rmYhNRRjxIP5CRDUMCWinpoCjZ-hWHc0sOaEU9Q_KeZtf5qJCTbQM--iB3FS0rnd4qXKAp5Rvm4kMR8-krT41Y_fupppsSWI1GUdc1hnB1tO9tU7wgr9BZcpTH3Z0T-j9AK5HTzJNhA56Y48Jr7pi9oagaOP/s4096/IMG_20220816_085934682.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzD6Rwdv6UVId8wsCHniHLbeFVRky_rmYhNRRjxIP5CRDUMCWinpoCjZ-hWHc0sOaEU9Q_KeZtf5qJCTbQM--iB3FS0rnd4qXKAp5Rvm4kMR8-krT41Y_fupppsSWI1GUdc1hnB1tO9tU7wgr9BZcpTH3Z0T-j9AK5HTzJNhA56Y48Jr7pi9oagaOP/w320-h240/IMG_20220816_085934682.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The entire foundation area was edged with river rock for ease of maintenance and access.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguiekKaXIccQh-ImIawPpIWKi-Suv1IJuVzXTga7MbxInBXlMh7kA0-xptN7H_8F6nymr2VoveShd3ovSIMiAS_9KVz6oyLFPQXe10V_vQIfhIw9gKrMpQZ9xhitEVsVR9_7Go6je-c1C1l4kI8zGf7t3A5b6W00vQpcItQQc3MAyLfvvUaMRonFmwSOs/s4096/IMG_20220819_120812175.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguiekKaXIccQh-ImIawPpIWKi-Suv1IJuVzXTga7MbxInBXlMh7kA0-xptN7H_8F6nymr2VoveShd3ovSIMiAS_9KVz6oyLFPQXe10V_vQIfhIw9gKrMpQZ9xhitEVsVR9_7Go6je-c1C1l4kI8zGf7t3A5b6W00vQpcItQQc3MAyLfvvUaMRonFmwSOs/w400-h300/IMG_20220819_120812175.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>This last season we returned for maintenance help and vacation weeding. The homeowner was doing a great job <a href="https://www.prairiemoon.com/blog/are-you-mowing-your-1st-year-prairie" target="_blank">keeping the seeding mowed</a> to a height where the perennials can grow roots, yet aggressive annual weeds were kept from going to seed. These steps are very important when establishing a new native planting from seed.</div><div><br /></div><div>The nearer plantings really grew this last summer!</div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMdQhqLXu3yHT6qAUhn4iQXQWfys5t8X1mHA8c5RJlSiN6VYPe4Yn8cbcZR4z6kIwqAuvCV0tSnmJwRaFTFlOLjji-ZIH9WfjmvGSDgUj4zO7r5pJ5ZjfLgxiHFWm3z73FhCgfBl4uRp8zUk-TtMpMIVBy4ZLnNxE5O3nXJylUD7XpeKoe3hULonFw7U/s4096/IMG_20230808_115559493_HDR.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpMdQhqLXu3yHT6qAUhn4iQXQWfys5t8X1mHA8c5RJlSiN6VYPe4Yn8cbcZR4z6kIwqAuvCV0tSnmJwRaFTFlOLjji-ZIH9WfjmvGSDgUj4zO7r5pJ5ZjfLgxiHFWm3z73FhCgfBl4uRp8zUk-TtMpMIVBy4ZLnNxE5O3nXJylUD7XpeKoe3hULonFw7U/w300-h400/IMG_20230808_115559493_HDR.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJlRZO10CQ1UkDqfSN6PhU-Cn2ZbFWMtZhol8YmA7cNQpLgUsN0RXqs-XaL_O35u7SjpkhEuG4OoR61pU1vhXrJJV1MDmtYwQmhOIIcPzZsjipNZclw7JU1rYw3gpIniMcZlY2G8xnKvA2GJg_r5Nelrjm2oVR61NeAl-ffu5yvn7B2G7pin7BVG0_uI/s4096/IMG_20230808_120112075.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyJlRZO10CQ1UkDqfSN6PhU-Cn2ZbFWMtZhol8YmA7cNQpLgUsN0RXqs-XaL_O35u7SjpkhEuG4OoR61pU1vhXrJJV1MDmtYwQmhOIIcPzZsjipNZclw7JU1rYw3gpIniMcZlY2G8xnKvA2GJg_r5Nelrjm2oVR61NeAl-ffu5yvn7B2G7pin7BVG0_uI/w300-h400/IMG_20230808_120112075.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMah2hWVGtXjHbqGAHF_uW2hmGOPbnf9EqwZXiR8dqVo8xYqA3icU_Soym6DsM5cC30vpPwK7taLMnAa4NUDR7Z6790V0YxQ_J5FqDU_UMJpZQGs0scY3ydqGTb-fc9AFlJAQhA5y1m2kdVG5Gc_S1nFawWt3VN4Gn88ZYQ5s-tyjGA0id92W58Pg5U0/s4096/IMG_20230808_121120840.jpg" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinMah2hWVGtXjHbqGAHF_uW2hmGOPbnf9EqwZXiR8dqVo8xYqA3icU_Soym6DsM5cC30vpPwK7taLMnAa4NUDR7Z6790V0YxQ_J5FqDU_UMJpZQGs0scY3ydqGTb-fc9AFlJAQhA5y1m2kdVG5Gc_S1nFawWt3VN4Gn88ZYQ5s-tyjGA0id92W58Pg5U0/w300-h400/IMG_20230808_121120840.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We are excited to continue watching this project grow and grow!</div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-63207928150305629202023-12-14T11:08:00.005-06:002023-12-14T13:22:49.632-06:00Abundant Design Holiday Gifts<div class="separator"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrBSpEhOUDKrknCduH5DTRoBc-jREH7wS5I8o4ajO_QaILJIUbS6MkBzjDOyiwrLx3EOSs0tnsfvQxNyeBSq7BAEHJxHTPu8aBAVjUv2HVvwkWJRxpQkika24-XvcKc3ot4qCAVo2L_3heQIdnyjjxYLstYKVgm9eOn8srEhHQ2XRQUhQCmFxQ42ULfQ/s2048/IMG_20181225_215621116~2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1036" data-original-width="2048" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIrBSpEhOUDKrknCduH5DTRoBc-jREH7wS5I8o4ajO_QaILJIUbS6MkBzjDOyiwrLx3EOSs0tnsfvQxNyeBSq7BAEHJxHTPu8aBAVjUv2HVvwkWJRxpQkika24-XvcKc3ot4qCAVo2L_3heQIdnyjjxYLstYKVgm9eOn8srEhHQ2XRQUhQCmFxQ42ULfQ/s320/IMG_20181225_215621116~2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<p>This year you might considering an alternative gift. We'd like to offer some ideas and options that are earth-friendly and fun!</p><p>These gifts will be available for pickup mid to late spring, but you can get a printable certificate for gifting. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxAnJQv6uVI21qlgyjGfxmAhlabJ4VW-dYp0FBGtjjpKkanPqHfzIcAutPhPD3yDCaWzz36sCH51X0ofApo9QsNT-YgRmqLcuVBUiEiwkq7EG4nUciEODD0bcM31GrA9vJhb3dT1Lh9dlBR2DllWhNjMrBvRURau1IhCrMxWtO3NxzmPW6e07H2EMqIQ/s2048/DSCN1750.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxAnJQv6uVI21qlgyjGfxmAhlabJ4VW-dYp0FBGtjjpKkanPqHfzIcAutPhPD3yDCaWzz36sCH51X0ofApo9QsNT-YgRmqLcuVBUiEiwkq7EG4nUciEODD0bcM31GrA9vJhb3dT1Lh9dlBR2DllWhNjMrBvRURau1IhCrMxWtO3NxzmPW6e07H2EMqIQ/w200-h150/DSCN1750.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjip7-R00jdIQ6iBE_6v73k_KGXHOIA9EVLxLPH4rGFRb_o5b7v4LXmAHi8M_LdpcGLG6toXyrAhstJytub724O_jG5xZzQ94VRQmI18dQJTflHJj3qkJP76Nci70v1AO1iiVN9HtdeGV0fB3vnkOTGdXjwjuVOtUmNmfdgNpcGH6_N39p5o1zpc9vmR_c/s2048/IMG_20160710_130317561.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1153" data-original-width="2048" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjip7-R00jdIQ6iBE_6v73k_KGXHOIA9EVLxLPH4rGFRb_o5b7v4LXmAHi8M_LdpcGLG6toXyrAhstJytub724O_jG5xZzQ94VRQmI18dQJTflHJj3qkJP76Nci70v1AO1iiVN9HtdeGV0fB3vnkOTGdXjwjuVOtUmNmfdgNpcGH6_N39p5o1zpc9vmR_c/w261-h148/IMG_20160710_130317561.jpg" width="261" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pollinator Plug 6-Pack $30</h2><p style="text-align: left;">6 pack of native plugs, wildflowers only <a href="mailto:abundantdesign@hotmail.com?subject=Gift: 6-Pack of Wildflowers!&body=I would like to order a Pollinator 6 pack. Please sedn me details!">Order a 6-Pack</a></p>
<blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p>- 6 larger potted plants for $60</p></blockquote></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Pocket Prairie Starter $45</h2><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH-TDDFl6J97oyO579u_ep6iVBTA3G6aRjMaRU0kcNhvsx2VkIsJOSgC0stHEi-s_EUxKc3D7y7nh4PcSIIptKpxnwvn17_k2naEkgQJ7u05nFd95VZ7sDnjP4LHbOUWymZpYRB4-HEp2XsfztAI9__0c1wnyo_vGeNQ0CRpTGNp1olY55qZFYGeqdpw/s4096/IMG_20230722_164513417.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimH-TDDFl6J97oyO579u_ep6iVBTA3G6aRjMaRU0kcNhvsx2VkIsJOSgC0stHEi-s_EUxKc3D7y7nh4PcSIIptKpxnwvn17_k2naEkgQJ7u05nFd95VZ7sDnjP4LHbOUWymZpYRB4-HEp2XsfztAI9__0c1wnyo_vGeNQ0CRpTGNp1olY55qZFYGeqdpw/w229-h305/IMG_20230722_164513417.jpg" width="229" /></a></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"></blockquote><blockquote>15 Native prairie plugs, include wildflowers and grasses for diversity. These plants are suitable for a 4' x 8' or similar sized planting area and include shorter species for the front and taller growers for the back.<br /></blockquote><p> <a href="mailto:abundantdesign@hotmail.com?subject=Gift: Pocket Prairie!&body=I would like to order a Pocket Prairie. Please send me more details.">Order a Pocket Prairie</a> </p>
<blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: left;">- 15 larger potted plants $150</p></blockquote></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><p style="text-align: left;"></p></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: left;"></p></blockquote></blockquote><p></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><p style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1056" data-original-width="744" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkaxe9I33slbekXGLb8-XWSMf6DYiIpxpLmGfk0lQ1kyNDGlFuyVuNvLOFNb8Kneisw0XtjpwGhsPhxhudTEQn_5LdLXGAB3N-2ikt0dKZYn4UhJSr96c73lVMd3qAnsWDyIlGOjn9VkCvNTyqlF4Bx0ND-vlLMjzDKLZ4sPQZLAUNkAE-FNbNIrErDf8/w233-h331/fruittree.jpg" style="font-weight: 700;" width="233" /></p></div><h2 style="text-align: left;">Tree Guild To-Go $50</h2><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>perennial & productive </i></p><p>Newly grafted fruit tree along with companion plants; 2 chive plugs, 2 white clover plugs/seed packet, comfrey root cutting</p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: left;"> <a href="mailto:abundantdesign@hotmail.com?subject=Gift: Tree Guild To-Go!&body=I would like to order a Tree Guild To-Go. Please send me a details.">Order a Tree Guild To-Go</a></p>
</blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p>- Upgrade to 4-6' potted tree <b>+</b>$50</p><p>- Add strawberries, 5 large crowns <b>+</b>$5</p><p><i></i></p></blockquote><p> </p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p><i>-Newly grafted fruit tree only for $25</i></p></blockquote><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p>These Holiday Deals will go through the end of the year. Installation is also available for next season.</p><p>Sometimes the butterflies, bees and hummingbirds can hardly wait for our plants to get in the ground!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJiLpZxIhVkoULRQQmxiDj1cnycjJo-jbCnw8sitBwS93vkYTb864mWroC52oC63IKGBhMn6jOzKy2oGaz7lExu1OFHa1I4G8AT-KcDchDryXWZ_Isfojw4MnceAO0aO9DwvhnS_OEk0ks0EBssU6xnyESEV3E7R00OjUm9b3R3fz8JlOoQarsvhhOh0/s2048/IMG_20180706_151502165.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1153" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuJiLpZxIhVkoULRQQmxiDj1cnycjJo-jbCnw8sitBwS93vkYTb864mWroC52oC63IKGBhMn6jOzKy2oGaz7lExu1OFHa1I4G8AT-KcDchDryXWZ_Isfojw4MnceAO0aO9DwvhnS_OEk0ks0EBssU6xnyESEV3E7R00OjUm9b3R3fz8JlOoQarsvhhOh0/w131-h190/IMG_20180706_151502165.jpg" width="131" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6i5asXjWJwgholtqQHjPSzNGLJzu63HAYivzzndtmTBNczIvvbcDejWWOPKzvMyOjahVUrzeYuFspEjQkEWXmpCwJvoGHEeSjndCSkR7cJrv7FLPzFMc9ZUbrI3PR2ZBcTx8HSzAeUMs-7HjhQ2DeI0SXhQdfhYgSwkTl7sGoyAkdYWg1APUAM38txRE/s2048/butterfly%20ankle.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="2048" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6i5asXjWJwgholtqQHjPSzNGLJzu63HAYivzzndtmTBNczIvvbcDejWWOPKzvMyOjahVUrzeYuFspEjQkEWXmpCwJvoGHEeSjndCSkR7cJrv7FLPzFMc9ZUbrI3PR2ZBcTx8HSzAeUMs-7HjhQ2DeI0SXhQdfhYgSwkTl7sGoyAkdYWg1APUAM38txRE/w270-h187/butterfly%20ankle.jpg" width="270" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">🦋 Butterflies showing some love 💕</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-15419531490101728642023-11-21T14:00:00.039-06:002023-11-21T14:02:44.023-06:00Rain Garden Design & Installation Video<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Learn how a Des Moines couple took advantage of one of Central Iowa's stormwater rebate programs to install a rain garden on their property!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJItts4JNJcuYfQmcq0iQDWvWY7HEcwR9uTTiO-8-JJWMPWMFsHwBiUQC1blOnn6ao4DPHclamnKygV3bu7ls3AOtpwI_YAU73of8wuu2aLAKL1PnCjbbLAXz91WLV6LQgAdk6iBJTG2_xydSJBI2_imM0dXXUdZcOfd0KTOfhM0D7lYVzfi4bIcAWQV0/s941/CustomerAfter.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="941" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJItts4JNJcuYfQmcq0iQDWvWY7HEcwR9uTTiO-8-JJWMPWMFsHwBiUQC1blOnn6ao4DPHclamnKygV3bu7ls3AOtpwI_YAU73of8wuu2aLAKL1PnCjbbLAXz91WLV6LQgAdk6iBJTG2_xydSJBI2_imM0dXXUdZcOfd0KTOfhM0D7lYVzfi4bIcAWQV0/w400-h239/CustomerAfter.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Here is a new video collaboration we did with <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i><a href="https://raincampaign.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">The Rain Campaign</span></a> </i></span>this summer-<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="400" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mzjl39KgbYc" width="480" youtube-src-id="mzjl39KgbYc"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This rain garden was part of the <a href="https://easterlake.org/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #2b00fe;"><i>Easter Lake Watershed</i></span></a> cost share program. Runoff from the driveway and part of the roof, as well as from part of the neighbor's driveway is collected in these basins. These basins filter and sink the rain into the ground instead of contributing to the storm surge and pollution.</div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFeALuTQF_uVfbzSGYy91bHhpwRxptkJ4D0HFB_4XDUG5ayCY_0h4d8vMJwNi0jgglA-j3Ag5M9JtpwYkzkOqKBcfANnq1TDTD8xo_3OW0y9xxtYLNDeo5KFhrwbFy_FjPVzTPKJp4pMTLSGyH7zW_4Ogf2kVSux5AA-A2vU2TOlbrwiSSsoedq4U8T4/s772/IMG%20before%202023-08-13.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="584" data-original-width="772" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFeALuTQF_uVfbzSGYy91bHhpwRxptkJ4D0HFB_4XDUG5ayCY_0h4d8vMJwNi0jgglA-j3Ag5M9JtpwYkzkOqKBcfANnq1TDTD8xo_3OW0y9xxtYLNDeo5KFhrwbFy_FjPVzTPKJp4pMTLSGyH7zW_4Ogf2kVSux5AA-A2vU2TOlbrwiSSsoedq4U8T4/w200-h151/IMG%20before%202023-08-13.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Patchy lawn #Before</td></tr></tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8F2z3HaIJ9HZ2gSHlLJG03hLNd35DfM10jGP74EZFhvQKID9F80kmL-nRTlvVDqA5z5jxwkJsfb5TtG4Z0s9BiMZqNml8GNRkd493IEzRlAUS3vroX4ETT1_zkQOWF08hLHgjAcLFLVu8ONDUacF-0kVsU1tmXssiVCuLo4Wrpu6gMsefmK-x3Ubgg5o/s3150/!RG%20Drawing23_Kirpalani%20split%20earthworks.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2400" data-original-width="3150" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8F2z3HaIJ9HZ2gSHlLJG03hLNd35DfM10jGP74EZFhvQKID9F80kmL-nRTlvVDqA5z5jxwkJsfb5TtG4Z0s9BiMZqNml8GNRkd493IEzRlAUS3vroX4ETT1_zkQOWF08hLHgjAcLFLVu8ONDUacF-0kVsU1tmXssiVCuLo4Wrpu6gMsefmK-x3Ubgg5o/s320/!RG%20Drawing23_Kirpalani%20split%20earthworks.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reworked sizing for split basins</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgff-Edtu1sdrKsv0GAlPImsOuAX7N3WL5swZxiUH67UrMZVOPAUA-uWntR_-932M1CATGWrXwLNBDnxOkm_B8CIF-T4DaFs1PF-eXCzXT0JgPUxQRqQ1wnHdbm6iK6BFrgwAX9hjGPjrU87CDBvC2XNDpnd-EA2E__pWAbu6m9q4qWJlp2-SDxDATD6Z0/s1087/DesignInstall.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="1087" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgff-Edtu1sdrKsv0GAlPImsOuAX7N3WL5swZxiUH67UrMZVOPAUA-uWntR_-932M1CATGWrXwLNBDnxOkm_B8CIF-T4DaFs1PF-eXCzXT0JgPUxQRqQ1wnHdbm6iK6BFrgwAX9hjGPjrU87CDBvC2XNDpnd-EA2E__pWAbu6m9q4qWJlp2-SDxDATD6Z0/s320/DesignInstall.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laying out plants</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE-4kQEeSee5blQssrTaUKnFeFDQQnOpJPQCcKTnuATqIEHbbHhQR4-ZNPjmfmjfTrfXEBI249VEXROrQB6WHNF3IoqmV_YvppMpM5CrNSu9y66xHPlSDdzuB_ORda1-AUd81hBW0FnzCvxE5YRgnqG1cP7QBZrJPUI7Uq4KFkzXF_RA-BXKd12puq6nE/s2985/IMG_20230915_125243122_crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2985" data-original-width="2882" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE-4kQEeSee5blQssrTaUKnFeFDQQnOpJPQCcKTnuATqIEHbbHhQR4-ZNPjmfmjfTrfXEBI249VEXROrQB6WHNF3IoqmV_YvppMpM5CrNSu9y66xHPlSDdzuB_ORda1-AUd81hBW0FnzCvxE5YRgnqG1cP7QBZrJPUI7Uq4KFkzXF_RA-BXKd12puq6nE/w386-h400/IMG_20230915_125243122_crop.jpg" width="386" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh Rain Garden Install #After</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><div><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2021/10/soil-quality-restoration.html" target="_blank">Soil Quality Restoration (SQR)</a> was done on the remaining turfgrass later, and additional native plantings are planned for next season.</div><div><br /></div><span style="font-size: medium;"><div style="text-align: center;">Abundant Design can help with all your stormwater needs, link for more info-</div></span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/p/water-managment.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: large;"><b>Rain Water Management</b></span></a></div><div><br /></div></div><div><br /></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-91994692340041038842023-11-01T17:09:00.002-05:002023-11-01T22:47:48.698-05:00Invasive SpeciesThe words "Invasive Species" can bring up a lot of feelings and even arguments... <div> <div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><i>"My yard, my choice!" to "Kill 'em all! ...with RoundUp!"</i></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Different people may even have different meanings when they say it. For example, some people consider aggressive native plants to be invasive. They can spread readily by rhizomes and self seeding. Most Goldenrod species definitely need to be managed in manicured landscapes, removing flower heads before they go to seed, and dividing clumps that are encroaching into areas they aren't wanted. However Goldenrod is also an important Fall food source for pollinators.</div><div><br /></div><div>When I use the term Invasive Species it is meant for aggressive, non-natives that disrupt natural ecosystems by out competing native species. Invasives can reproduce rapidly or sometimes have life cycle differences that give them an advantage over native species.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/p/contact-us.html">Need help with Invasive Species Removal? Contact Us!</a></b></span></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTFIGF9sVFb4wvTcku4bScuog0alkFqAqujV6nIZGTfkUjiZ_BxGGsysdHZsZpwufKD5lOzmIto1DI6UvjXJVKzCD3t-L4u5ZjY3bZJkuT06GW4e_i85DCG0BCNcdR9e6CcGLjdOQgMQzQsrU5Ozopi5o8FMtdp28l9t-aHIitfKlzw2jKSWFJune7EU/s4096/IMG_20220630_160050914.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTFIGF9sVFb4wvTcku4bScuog0alkFqAqujV6nIZGTfkUjiZ_BxGGsysdHZsZpwufKD5lOzmIto1DI6UvjXJVKzCD3t-L4u5ZjY3bZJkuT06GW4e_i85DCG0BCNcdR9e6CcGLjdOQgMQzQsrU5Ozopi5o8FMtdp28l9t-aHIitfKlzw2jKSWFJune7EU/w150-h200/IMG_20220630_160050914.jpg" width="150" /></a>Most people are familiar with Bush Honeysuckle (Amur & Tartarian), one of the worst offenders across the Midwest. Its lifecycle helps it outcompete native shrubs because it keeps it leaves longer in the fall getting just a little more energy and time to grow. It forms dense, shrubby, understory colonies that eliminate native woody and herbaceous plants. The berries are not edible for people, but birds readily eat them distributing seed everywhere. Look for seedlings under trees and overhead utility wires and by fences. Initially introduced as an ornamental, its planting was even formerly encouraged along fence rows to prevent erosion and for wildlife habitat. </div><div><div><br /></div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp76q_rc6UFDbq69ezMzT6J8X5omyS279FtipQIishogPpI6hnQs7ExncKFo7juvNDuhfLUJySmLQcJjpIrD1uxa9zScZ_K_EGGYO4hZpga4rn8Z7BTnrByDbzQXALCt2feM0dajGB3wx7vtEaqCd5Mi5OZdPoqINK5jr3G6gUQ84rb_YEPBaomCfl1fs/s4096/IMG_20230518_101000976.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp76q_rc6UFDbq69ezMzT6J8X5omyS279FtipQIishogPpI6hnQs7ExncKFo7juvNDuhfLUJySmLQcJjpIrD1uxa9zScZ_K_EGGYO4hZpga4rn8Z7BTnrByDbzQXALCt2feM0dajGB3wx7vtEaqCd5Mi5OZdPoqINK5jr3G6gUQ84rb_YEPBaomCfl1fs/s320/IMG_20230518_101000976.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Trevor displays his honeysuckle trophy</span></td></tr></tbody></table> <br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiDOOhfnFFgOealAQqOvqbglY-Iim03Qk11zgnUf1GCealssKVinbqOebhz29-pTaAk6whAnuOHoeHnyZt2YPCuROuE8GL77ay7ws4En7qsRVrY1l97B2s69uRbEEu44Hsh5RMtudhF2lt5Ty8lDyKOOZxcdtsDIwOEZzjbPQ8GNCZo6KZ6AzZ3cEjWc/s4096/IMG_20220630_155836672_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCiDOOhfnFFgOealAQqOvqbglY-Iim03Qk11zgnUf1GCealssKVinbqOebhz29-pTaAk6whAnuOHoeHnyZt2YPCuROuE8GL77ay7ws4En7qsRVrY1l97B2s69uRbEEu44Hsh5RMtudhF2lt5Ty8lDyKOOZxcdtsDIwOEZzjbPQ8GNCZo6KZ6AzZ3cEjWc/w400-h300/IMG_20220630_155836672_HDR.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">I </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">love </i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">using the stump bucket to remove invasive honeysuckle!<br /></span></span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div></div><div>Another plant widely used for erosion control along highways and in agricultural grassed waterways was <a href="https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/reed-canary-grass-invasive-species-profile" target="_blank">Reed Canary Grass</a>. It lays flat and conveys water quickly, however it is hard to manage and no longer recommended by conservation agencies. Lying flat under the snow it provides little winter wildlife cover and forms dense stands that reduce biodiversity.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Japanese Barberry is another invasive species widely used as an ornamental. Tough as nails, but even sharper, these "bullet-proof plants" are often seen in new construction with Spirea and Boxwoods. Like the Honeysuckle, Barberry lifecycle allows it to leaf out in the Spring earlier than native plants shading them out. The small berries can be eaten by birds which spreads their seed. They can also spread by rhizomes and their roots can interfere with the growth of other plants.</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qoweNnhb2COKloSrovMGr7nzLUwEgQK7UTxtOpuxABQt1T-7UDnXV5Ar00SMaAhpWw9DIXeLuOD4O7axiVwcqoMX8vBB8pAm8GBMX_Ycxy-wcM-k6xi3j8C5qrbEjaqwixoi-g9iC7i7jF3zyFINTOyJ4aGv11kXpFQJ_3Pcdqr2c6-CSitMDgU_xhk/s2048/InvasiveBarberry.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qoweNnhb2COKloSrovMGr7nzLUwEgQK7UTxtOpuxABQt1T-7UDnXV5Ar00SMaAhpWw9DIXeLuOD4O7axiVwcqoMX8vBB8pAm8GBMX_Ycxy-wcM-k6xi3j8C5qrbEjaqwixoi-g9iC7i7jF3zyFINTOyJ4aGv11kXpFQJ_3Pcdqr2c6-CSitMDgU_xhk/s320/InvasiveBarberry.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Barberry is a nasty one, with painful and irritating thorns</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_gN8RCnLxo1PqvEsfDWaFf2-4HzHfRnPXEo0vt_2AOC77lMk9Awwl5a2pT5fozXmdVvAag6NJ1VWYxQukibHwuwS_R1wE8_0Mj_7Kw5kVoJMKiPKXlRJt_1G6DkzTBHc_oBYUitIsVRWBsK8RCD7C-3TeVBGQCP3-5cTEVWpAF4G_zYQYQDBLX2CsrM/s4096/IMG_20230118_140537862.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_gN8RCnLxo1PqvEsfDWaFf2-4HzHfRnPXEo0vt_2AOC77lMk9Awwl5a2pT5fozXmdVvAag6NJ1VWYxQukibHwuwS_R1wE8_0Mj_7Kw5kVoJMKiPKXlRJt_1G6DkzTBHc_oBYUitIsVRWBsK8RCD7C-3TeVBGQCP3-5cTEVWpAF4G_zYQYQDBLX2CsrM/s320/IMG_20230118_140537862.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Barberry at Browns Woods in West Des Moines</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>One of the most beautiful, and highly invasive, ornamental shrubs is Burning Bush or Winged Euonymus. I love the color, and we had a nice row along our home when we moved in.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOOUHl_d0n1eQlxjWyLsrQtkt4hEtRTVXnplPfLVcoW0Pfe9I4KxNSB6BuazU9lJywPaxKQQgmBiTmObSj9Xi40wf-90cAqw6z6SN4fYDDdz58DGs6pvknTi31jxoUPE3cDzi-uunsjU24a-Y4U9FTDSPIENQzmzIseWD9uQQwwcuEhPgWfyYqy5-tg9M/s960/Burning%20Bush.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOOUHl_d0n1eQlxjWyLsrQtkt4hEtRTVXnplPfLVcoW0Pfe9I4KxNSB6BuazU9lJywPaxKQQgmBiTmObSj9Xi40wf-90cAqw6z6SN4fYDDdz58DGs6pvknTi31jxoUPE3cDzi-uunsjU24a-Y4U9FTDSPIENQzmzIseWD9uQQwwcuEhPgWfyYqy5-tg9M/s320/Burning%20Bush.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Brilliant, but Invasive, Burning Bush</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Easily propagated, hardy and beautiful, it is a staple of the landscaping industry. I eventually removed ours with machinery, but seedlings and remaining roots continued to resprout for some time. This makes established colonies of exotic burning bush very hard to eradicate. The photos below were also taken in the Fall at Browns Woods. You can notice many of the surrounding plants are dormant, while the burning bush is just starting to change color and drop its leaves (giving it a life cycle advantage).</div></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mNR6iKUPmsI/W4l-EyLHHsI/AAAAAAAADIg/f_gcyznd0GIXbdigxy7LXv1lQFlaq0f2QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171123_155816739.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="901" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mNR6iKUPmsI/W4l-EyLHHsI/AAAAAAAADIg/f_gcyznd0GIXbdigxy7LXv1lQFlaq0f2QCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20171123_155816739.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3bQLNQhN6L4/W4l-EcuMw6I/AAAAAAAADIc/fLhRtDR_ewkrQIdYjx2zi5kkkGnwi5zzACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171123_155746039.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="901" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3bQLNQhN6L4/W4l-EcuMw6I/AAAAAAAADIc/fLhRtDR_ewkrQIdYjx2zi5kkkGnwi5zzACLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20171123_155746039.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>A US Native Burning Bush, the Eastern Wahoo, is unfortunately lesser known so most nurseries and greenhouses only carry the exotic variety.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Here's a recent episode of the Small Farm Sustainability Podcast from Iowa State University</div><div> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" height="150" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" oallowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" src="//html5-player.libsyn.com/embed/episode/id/28025010/height/150/theme/custom/thumbnail/yes/direction/backward/render-playlist/no/custom-color/b0aa7e/" style="border: none;" title="Libsyn Player" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="100%"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;">Here is even more information on Invasive Species from ISU Extension and Outreach</span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/invasives"><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Invasive Species in Iowa | Natural Resource Stewardship (iastate.edu)</b></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">We also found some bittersweet on our walk in the woods...</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HXzpQrgs2kw/W4l-pvI8l6I/AAAAAAAADI8/3W24Hj5XrBYxL1tFqygi-Bvw9GKiSOy7QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_20171123_162753752.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="901" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HXzpQrgs2kw/W4l-pvI8l6I/AAAAAAAADI8/3W24Hj5XrBYxL1tFqygi-Bvw9GKiSOy7QCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_20171123_162753752.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">More info here <a href="https://extension.illinois.edu/sites/default/files/oriental_vs_american_bittersweet.pdf" target="_blank">American vs Oriental Bittersweet</a></div></div></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Use of invasive species in landscaping contributes to their spread into natural areas. Avoiding these species is the first step to help control their invasion. When it comes to invasive species, the old adage is right...</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMYq9EntwHkV1d56BohlM4p1IOlnO3fcUgSecRDtKkBms0-2jqqRhgE59m9cDVkQhwsU6xQLIJS3qnBYHavE6djq30j65J7te9P6qhgktY3yYNboS1rllCtkVHucWkFZa4sd3WCmIY0YYyyLRUwXnzf4aeoMvX7hjwvl6D6B652vAbOPfv2EaBKnpVkc/s3264/IMG_20230519_102708430.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMYq9EntwHkV1d56BohlM4p1IOlnO3fcUgSecRDtKkBms0-2jqqRhgE59m9cDVkQhwsU6xQLIJS3qnBYHavE6djq30j65J7te9P6qhgktY3yYNboS1rllCtkVHucWkFZa4sd3WCmIY0YYyyLRUwXnzf4aeoMvX7hjwvl6D6B652vAbOPfv2EaBKnpVkc/s320/IMG_20230519_102708430.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">That's a pile! Invasive Honeysuckle<br /><br /></span></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/p/contact-us.html">Need help with Invasive Species Removal? Contact Us!</a></b></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-45226447929585265032023-07-05T23:01:00.000-05:002023-07-05T23:01:10.701-05:00Keeping Rootstocks in Check<p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNll7JrvZH9S4Nc7_ZTg7r0SAmmf0GfMiSs7RVtjAQ10oU1rb796bsd2qw2tnLaEqqjZgE_UhPvQLpfoGDuX5gZhSlZh3pCWFmsSEWjiyAQejXgkhR1dPCNuNeEooT90q3_oWSKgX9jRs01vE3riTf798dV58g3eN7QrdOBHy7-DUxzFdLZCizHBY6W8/s1920/Snapshot.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNll7JrvZH9S4Nc7_ZTg7r0SAmmf0GfMiSs7RVtjAQ10oU1rb796bsd2qw2tnLaEqqjZgE_UhPvQLpfoGDuX5gZhSlZh3pCWFmsSEWjiyAQejXgkhR1dPCNuNeEooT90q3_oWSKgX9jRs01vE3riTf798dV58g3eN7QrdOBHy7-DUxzFdLZCizHBY6W8/s320/Snapshot.bmp" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suckers growing from the rootstock</td></tr></tbody></table></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77SZcrA4GtAtjmuqDSN_ZdADzl5KdlxN7zin2orTURGy-EE96BpeHJNDZKBtyST-XEUXrjARy375cAZ3rN9y9dvFzqcSbI8-msTRWO36ZgK1z8nE2PkSRDWEXmgObSXQRrpiSQCxST27iQAF8zBnQlh4Pv9_kQ_ZdTfUvK86ZYHU44CVMM-7m-m9U8o8/s604/ApplePicking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="453" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj77SZcrA4GtAtjmuqDSN_ZdADzl5KdlxN7zin2orTURGy-EE96BpeHJNDZKBtyST-XEUXrjARy375cAZ3rN9y9dvFzqcSbI8-msTRWO36ZgK1z8nE2PkSRDWEXmgObSXQRrpiSQCxST27iQAF8zBnQlh4Pv9_kQ_ZdTfUvK86ZYHU44CVMM-7m-m9U8o8/s320/ApplePicking.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Grafted fruit trees are wonderful additions to the landscape.<br /><p></p><p>Grafting lets us know which variety of fruit we are growing, assuring we get our favorite flavors and other qualities. This top part is known as the <i><u>Scion </u></i>wood and is grafted onto a known rootstock.</p><p>The <i><u>Rootstock</u> </i>is the part of the tree that will grow in the ground, and also chosen for its characteristics. Rootstocks can be seedling grown for economics but are typically cloned with reproducibly known qualities. These may be chosen for size, disease resistance or performance in a specific soil type.</p><div style="text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2017/02/grafting-fruit-trees.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Graft your own fruit tree!</span></b></a></i></div><p>While trees are young, "root suckers" and other branches on aggressive rootstocks have an easier time growing as the graft scar takes some time to heal completely. This reduces nutrient and water transfer, hindering the scion's ability to grow until it heals completely. These branches and suckers can sometimes grow rapidly and overtake the slower grafted portion. If left unchecked this can eventually cause the grafted part to atrophy and die, losing your chosen variety.</p><p>In the video we'll visit the <a href="https://sproutgarden.wp.drake.edu/food-forest/" target="_blank">Food Forest at Drake University</a> to demonstrate sucker pruning on a young grafted American Persimmon tree.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="333" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pRRbYWu-3Ag" width="400" youtube-src-id="pRRbYWu-3Ag"></iframe></div><p>Branching and suckering of the rootstock is one way to lose your grafted variety from trees and you will be left with lesser quality fruit, if any fruit at all. Removing these vigorous suckers is necessary for the long-term health and productivity of the tree.</p><p><br /></p>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-27970380670007986412023-05-19T07:00:00.005-05:002023-05-24T00:06:24.995-05:00New Planting Care Guide<p>Our customers want to take the best care of their projects once we finish an installation. We often share care and watering tips with them on site, but sometimes they are at work, on vacation or away for any number of reasons. Also, many prefer to have the directions written out for them as it can be easy to forget, or stressful wondering if you forgot something important. </p><p>Here are our suggestions for taking the best care of your new plantings.</p>
<p></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Watering</b></h2><p></p>
<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApr-USzEsjleuatqoFGCylE0GxWffE5K1tB4_-8WnPAWdQiNtTTqb6yM7zK17HCoeKS1QrxkzEtvOsBJbNJDD09M5YjkrhiRCoqJFH_o7siRXDFuJ2m6LgOptostMKUikc0E5ItLvKJtmbpMZQNmarDtx6SlTfW2TQGwj9Rh9rLw8XuBWTrv8I4ch/s723/-3756424351561199317.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="407" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiApr-USzEsjleuatqoFGCylE0GxWffE5K1tB4_-8WnPAWdQiNtTTqb6yM7zK17HCoeKS1QrxkzEtvOsBJbNJDD09M5YjkrhiRCoqJFH_o7siRXDFuJ2m6LgOptostMKUikc0E5ItLvKJtmbpMZQNmarDtx6SlTfW2TQGwj9Rh9rLw8XuBWTrv8I4ch/w224-h398/-3756424351561199317.jpg" width="224" /></a></div><h3 style="text-align: left;">Trees-</h3><p></p><p>Over the next few weeks and months water and observe as necessary until the tree is fully established. </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Water daily for 1-2 weeks; then 2-3 days for 3-12 weeks; then weekly until established</li><li>Apply 1-1.5 gallons per inch of trunk caliper* at each watering</li><ul><li>For fruit trees, stay closer to 1gal/inch especially if in heavier or clay soils unless you see signs of drying</li></ul></ul><p></p><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><p style="text-align: left;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*Caliper refers to the diameter of the trunk 6" above the ground (or 12" high if larger than 4" caliper)</span></i></p></blockquote><p>A smaller tree will take nearly a full growing season to become fully established. A 2" tree may require two years to become fully established on its own while a 3" tree may need three years. The larger the tree, the bigger the shock so continue to be diligent in keeping an eye on things even long after the initial planting.</p><p>Although not always accurate, you can guess the reason for stress by where you see wilting leaves - Wilting higher in the tree can indicate not enough water and if wilting or browning occurs lower in the tree it may signal too much water. Adjust your watering plan accordingly.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Shrubs-</h3><p>Over the next few weeks and months water and observe as necessary until the plant is fully established. </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Water daily for 1-2 weeks; then 2-3 days for 3-12 weeks; then weekly until established</li><li>Apply 1/4 to 1+ gallon at each watering depending on container size (#1-5)</li></ul><p></p><p></p>Typically a smaller plant will take nearly a full growing season to become fully established. The larger the shrub, the bigger the shock so continue to be diligent in keeping an eye on things even long after the initial planting.<div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Perennials-</h3><p>Over the next few weeks and months they will need watered as necessary until the plant is fully established. </p><p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Water daily for 1-2 weeks; then 2-3 days for 3-12 weeks; then weekly until established</li><li>Apply 1/4 to 1/2 gallon at each watering depending on plant/container size</li></ul><p></p><p>Typically perennials will take a growing season to become fully established. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SyWN0ZkQT9GHe9gHKuuvWmqNbtE1-8nkERpJKkUL-4-Gioqy9Nz9U1gTQGPIX7V6h9wrGI6uamejQAzn4rXNcs-np1h1hicaEHIOSapBYXyUokA3_Hm8TyuEC6VLT_9KvidLhrZPGhU2irEEpuK_jGzwhreiRZYxaDQTdzuu5QWb0cEvGOW7SC4I/s2549/tripod%20sprinklers.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="2549" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6SyWN0ZkQT9GHe9gHKuuvWmqNbtE1-8nkERpJKkUL-4-Gioqy9Nz9U1gTQGPIX7V6h9wrGI6uamejQAzn4rXNcs-np1h1hicaEHIOSapBYXyUokA3_Hm8TyuEC6VLT_9KvidLhrZPGhU2irEEpuK_jGzwhreiRZYxaDQTdzuu5QWb0cEvGOW7SC4I/w534-h260/tripod%20sprinklers.jpg" width="534" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sprinklers can help cover large areas</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="text-align: center;"></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">These Tripod Sprinklers are great!</span></div><div><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=abundesiiowa-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00LORGP7U&asins=B00LORGP7U&linkId=f2723792a420be1f973d27cd49abf4d9&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div>Along with these instructions, watch for indicators that help determine if you need to adjust watering. Especially hot or windy conditions will require more watering. Rainy weather will allow you to reduce the amount of watering, or even skip a day.</div><div><br /><p></p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Mulching</b></h2><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJwl2tcv3CizLUU8DUbxsJqAy67oNNckoBM0dzcFCz1dZOwj06BiKoBKMqfTKTSLiRpBKPf1xASqAGk-eKXmRJiiJPHfqPh4sWhV1XWbHk2jwcf5AH96OCirCFFtOs3Hn_qwxSOGo3fZSZlYtrnydKpkVMyn4zPn6d7c3qApjCIPwGeYi62Dw2B3z/s4096/IMG_20190627_135210440_HDR.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilJwl2tcv3CizLUU8DUbxsJqAy67oNNckoBM0dzcFCz1dZOwj06BiKoBKMqfTKTSLiRpBKPf1xASqAGk-eKXmRJiiJPHfqPh4sWhV1XWbHk2jwcf5AH96OCirCFFtOs3Hn_qwxSOGo3fZSZlYtrnydKpkVMyn4zPn6d7c3qApjCIPwGeYi62Dw2B3z/s320/IMG_20190627_135210440_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Mulch, including rock, helps keep the soil cool and retain moisture. Organic mulches, such as wood chips, will break down overtime building the organic matter and quality of your soil. Our projects are usually mulched during installation. However you may wish to refresh the mulch after a couple years.<p></p><p>Too much mulch or piling mulch against a trunk can be a problem. Leave a few inches between your mulch and the trunk to prevent fungal infection. Mulch deeper than 4" can also keep water from reaching the soil and roots during lighter rains, as well as other problems.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><i>Avoid the "Mulch Volcano" and think of using more of a flattened mulch donut.</i></p><p></p><b><br /></b><p></p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;"><b>Protection</b></h2><p>Pests like rabbits and deer can really do a number on young plantings. Even if a plant is described as resistant, r<i>abbits and deer don't read books!</i> A wire cage or tree guard may be warranted. <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2014/11/protecting-plants-from-rabbits-and-more.html" target="_blank">During the winter, protection can be even more important</a> as many typical foods are dormant or under snow, causing deer and rabbits to eat things they wouldn't normally eat. Male deer will also rub their antlers on younger trees during the fall rut. This can damage the bark on unprotected trees allowing pests or disease in, or even break off a young tree entirely.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lBUHhsV-lQ-SbvlPo7BZh33e_pzw_lCc0q4jAUw4B0W0tAw0XnVAg_mtHkYaafwzZ7z5YpFLtYsCDyagjLSd7W0qEB3QpC2-DmFD-7dML1N9MLhoS8oCSTytUbx-t_XPaRUBvQ2uDEJyLLR3LeeTtmPRcJOAI_eUdXwBr7-zcx2x3BMt0x11S3ZQ/s4096/IMG_20190614_165518930.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9lBUHhsV-lQ-SbvlPo7BZh33e_pzw_lCc0q4jAUw4B0W0tAw0XnVAg_mtHkYaafwzZ7z5YpFLtYsCDyagjLSd7W0qEB3QpC2-DmFD-7dML1N9MLhoS8oCSTytUbx-t_XPaRUBvQ2uDEJyLLR3LeeTtmPRcJOAI_eUdXwBr7-zcx2x3BMt0x11S3ZQ/w400-h300/IMG_20190614_165518930.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p>With the right care your new plants will be off to a great start providing years of enjoyment. Whether it's a new shade tree for the patio, new berry bushes by the garden or a whole food forest, you can give your project the best chance of success with these simple tips! </p><p style="text-align: center;">Best wishes on your new project!</p><p><br /></p></div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-16804584568669319272023-05-18T23:23:00.003-05:002023-05-18T23:23:40.984-05:00New Video! Wheelbarrow?<p>Yes, there is a new YouTube video we just posted!</p><p>Well, it isn't that exciting, but it will help if you have to haul your <a href="https://amzn.to/42HIsNg" target="_blank">wheelbarrow </a>over to a friend or family member's house. Or maybe you are the new kid on a landscaping crew and want to show the guys you know a couple tricks.</p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dpV9Y12WcEo" width="320" youtube-src-id="dpV9Y12WcEo"></iframe></div><br /><p></p><p>I hope to be putting more content out as we document more of what we are doing.</p><p><br /></p>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-38331122188704132552023-05-02T06:10:00.002-05:002023-05-03T20:16:33.989-05:00Creeping Charlie - Killer Recipes<div class="separator">Creeping Charlie, or ground ivy, is one of those weeds that just won't quit. It was brought over from Europe by settlers that thought it would make a nice ground cover for shaded areas. And that it does well, thriving in moist and shady locations! </div><p>However, Creeping Charlie also grows well in sunny locations and can be an unwelcome invader to grass lawns. It spreads by both seed and vining stems which root about anywhere it comes in contact with the ground. These vining stems can even hitch a ride under lawn mower decks that move from yard to yard.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQjhSkiox2pMNnYv54BQLmt5gIfrpyvPAkHAKZvplROWjfdBHJlmeCdUrKeR4vOpJOA_ww80o45I11GzRSgT1UfVyoPRNnzAQR9zQt-ynVpHVnmbgWkRvkxUxH95evigWtdrZ9kVdHvgj5lGIB7jWv3Hj2RvA4AgrW4qunYboIurDgXO9HTrEQ1NWB/s4096/IMG_20230421_122111829.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQjhSkiox2pMNnYv54BQLmt5gIfrpyvPAkHAKZvplROWjfdBHJlmeCdUrKeR4vOpJOA_ww80o45I11GzRSgT1UfVyoPRNnzAQR9zQt-ynVpHVnmbgWkRvkxUxH95evigWtdrZ9kVdHvgj5lGIB7jWv3Hj2RvA4AgrW4qunYboIurDgXO9HTrEQ1NWB/s320/IMG_20230421_122111829.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creeping Charlie running stem with roots</td></tr></tbody></table></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The leaves are rounded with scalloped edges and have a somewhat strong smell when cut or crushed. Many people think it smells minty and pleasant. It can be used to make teas, added to salads or cooked in soups. Although I will likely pass, I don't like it much. I do <i>sort of</i> wish I had saved and <u>potted</u> a little bit when I removed it from our yard.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Unlike a lot of my posts about plants, this recipe is for controlling them in your lawn, specifically Creeping Charlie!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> More foraging info for those interested can be found here- <div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.ediblewildfood.com/creeping-charlie.aspx">Creeping Charlie: Glechoma hederacea (ediblewildfood.com)</a></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtDEFHclk8anADluQ56p97RV1Y-sKub30b0b6Jg9Q7mjMT_VfdmlAxedqLsJv4zGDgqZnZKJsCpBIrGO1OLUFyg3FcmCpbi6n3qaYS70BhdwjdNnccXNCDQtq6Ns2L4sOde-nCAyPRr0-YCo8N6gnmNT_dOyWCJe8nxSVeNnvmCRyzt5PwVsaceCj/s4096/IMG_20230421_122006630.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUtDEFHclk8anADluQ56p97RV1Y-sKub30b0b6Jg9Q7mjMT_VfdmlAxedqLsJv4zGDgqZnZKJsCpBIrGO1OLUFyg3FcmCpbi6n3qaYS70BhdwjdNnccXNCDQtq6Ns2L4sOde-nCAyPRr0-YCo8N6gnmNT_dOyWCJe8nxSVeNnvmCRyzt5PwVsaceCj/w400-h300/IMG_20230421_122006630.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Creeping Charlie blooming with its small, bluish funnel-shaped blossoms</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div>Enter <b>Boron</b><div><br /></div><div>Boron is a necessary micronutrient for plant growth, helping with sugar transport, cell division and seed development. Without enough boron in the soil, plants may appear healthy but will not flower or fruit. The balance of too little or too much between plants and boron is a delicate one, and heavy boron soil concentration can be toxic to plants. Luckily for those who have a this weed problem in their lawn</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: medium;">Creeping Charlie is very susceptible to too much Boron.</span></i></div><div><div><br /></div><div><div>This recipe for controlling it originally came from Iowa State university. They removed the article initially, as many people were killing their lawns permanently. It has been republished here, with plenty of warnings.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/1997/8-22-1997/borax.html">Borax on Ground Ivy: Boon or Bane?</a> by Richard Jauron</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Horticulture and Home Pest News, and Iowa State University Extension and Outreach</div><div><br /></div><div>I've added some steps to help increase effectiveness, and reduce the risk of killing your grass with Boron toxicity. First you'll need to rake out as much creeping charlie as you can. Aggressively go after the running stems as they will try to regrow. A <a href="https://amzn.to/3nkEwTm" target="_blank">stiff tined garden rake</a> works very well for this part.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDsjGkhefcjh8wvpBGic7X07eDEI1kHNijBjoXfRt6CSJS2W9kVKxlu0wVTMk1uOiWDJdZEhSUwnA76cKIDEj3rPaaF3DDWx1csolqkSSr0rpp4oSM6ZZXMz2beZc7_VP_hxYNql-v8Y_SmO0IQqrhwq4Pd88bFxZYHmcbBsw__yiYEk2ZrIlZ8Fx/s4096/IMG_20230421_122507910.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihDsjGkhefcjh8wvpBGic7X07eDEI1kHNijBjoXfRt6CSJS2W9kVKxlu0wVTMk1uOiWDJdZEhSUwnA76cKIDEj3rPaaF3DDWx1csolqkSSr0rpp4oSM6ZZXMz2beZc7_VP_hxYNql-v8Y_SmO0IQqrhwq4Pd88bFxZYHmcbBsw__yiYEk2ZrIlZ8Fx/w238-h318/IMG_20230421_122507910.jpg" width="238" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHArnvqrzMPoZv0pFiewS_nUiUs8pjrbhKfl-C2pSuli6PdKkhlxY56NdU7XTU2SdTl7loYy97oegoO2F8R9srAH3QU-pNSMUvXq63vILTJjXk4xQfXAf5gpCcgqTTklypdAZnDUyrbFQZ_gnQqd-iejMlNy8zjJ_2GdKE-Tz1oRjshEgKChMLxjD/s4096/IMG_20230421_122603598_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGHArnvqrzMPoZv0pFiewS_nUiUs8pjrbhKfl-C2pSuli6PdKkhlxY56NdU7XTU2SdTl7loYy97oegoO2F8R9srAH3QU-pNSMUvXq63vILTJjXk4xQfXAf5gpCcgqTTklypdAZnDUyrbFQZ_gnQqd-iejMlNy8zjJ_2GdKE-Tz1oRjshEgKChMLxjD/s320/IMG_20230421_122603598_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Next, I recommend starting with just half strength (5oz Borax) of ISU's recipe below</div></div></div></div><div><br /></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><b>Recipe for Borax control of ground ivy on bluegrass</b></div><div><i> (Caution: apply over recommended area to avoid toxicity symptoms)</i></div><div>Treats 1,000 sq. feet:</div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><div style="text-align: left;">10 oz. <a href="https://amzn.to/3AFHX9Z" target="_blank">Twenty Mule Team Borax</a> </div></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><div style="text-align: left;">Dissolve in 4 oz. warm water to help dissolve the borax</div></div></blockquote><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px; text-align: left;"><div><div style="text-align: left;"><div>D<span style="text-align: center;">ilute this premix in 2.5 gal. water</span></div></div></div></blockquote></blockquote><div><p style="text-align: center;"> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=abundesiiowa-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B018HUUK40&asins=B018HUUK40&linkId=84c23621646b97a41cf030537da03cae&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><span style="text-align: center;">
</span><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=abundesiiowa-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07B4DCP7X&asins=B07B4DCP7X&linkId=6bf24fa14e223df245ca98d04ae4b1af&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=false" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p></div><div>If the Creeping Charlie returns to your lawn, you'll need to rake the rhizomes out again. It should definitely be less this time, and then use a 2nd half strength application.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>If it happens to come back again, it should at least be in sporadic patches and way more manageable with patience and a bit of maintenance raking.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq74n81v0QZEJalxVxgS1_rweEEkohVHC1U9MgwGwPm3qo4y8zLBqKHWsDV41wYSuEvOiuk1z7Sox8STi5nlBhQZbRRJ5_npnaHBX-AtQ3QcPqHMCRzETtERf8K-aOK8hIaQTT0ZmeMtgcCkmNbruEyCpBsOi3x11MpasVHNgI9lpaVeiUuQ0u-b1M/s320/IMG_20230421_122537736_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Recent articles claim long term control with Borax is limited, but my anecdotal experience says it really helps get ahead of it and you can keep it under control with a little diligence.</div><div><br /></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-39628030462378580132023-03-03T09:35:00.000-06:002023-03-03T09:35:42.028-06:00Backyard Retreat & Woodland Adventures<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItsXrnNkV6nu7QAtlr9PGOGe9rsd9HhMS3yNRfjNvBPGOjtzrtPp26njCWweOupf2ZBJS0SoH4UUjQe0oLJCS6hlvj6_CCOUrlRQMxMlcb2oOrr2tKCn3aX1M8_Xy9IL_JN7J_YLDirNUwYr-aP4VH3o4QITvc4W97Qi7uafOsFHKwO5tTUmsmKhU/s4096/IMG_20220726_092400724.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgItsXrnNkV6nu7QAtlr9PGOGe9rsd9HhMS3yNRfjNvBPGOjtzrtPp26njCWweOupf2ZBJS0SoH4UUjQe0oLJCS6hlvj6_CCOUrlRQMxMlcb2oOrr2tKCn3aX1M8_Xy9IL_JN7J_YLDirNUwYr-aP4VH3o4QITvc4W97Qi7uafOsFHKwO5tTUmsmKhU/w400-h300/IMG_20220726_092400724.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dry play yard, decorative and functional stream <br />with a woodland adventure area behind</td></tr></tbody></table><p>Wet + Shade + High Traffic</p><p>These things never lend themselves to a healthy lawn... A lawn is definitely something the homeowners wanted out of this project for their kids' soccer and football games. But in addition to the lawn, they wanted a space for creative play, keeping or expanding the existing vegetable gardens, increasing the numbers of edible berries and plants, all while doing it in a natural and earth-friendly sort of way.</p><p><br /></p><p>Before pics-</p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSOJFoBbb6SzvaqHEWyKHKm4_4Xzdjn08dKzJZoJuqyrsJ6rqW2ncFHcRHxHWQpZHEDAjGRZUHSCy7TQzFIcqiIVB99q-LoTxoMW5v8gcLod_FX3i535aiWNYpPmdGeGzHNcR7Iz0lz2jZA7onQ8Jc6H_VVg-k9G9zugKidvi7PM8OmoDW5ZnqADM/s4096/IMG_20211102_170919960.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGSOJFoBbb6SzvaqHEWyKHKm4_4Xzdjn08dKzJZoJuqyrsJ6rqW2ncFHcRHxHWQpZHEDAjGRZUHSCy7TQzFIcqiIVB99q-LoTxoMW5v8gcLod_FX3i535aiWNYpPmdGeGzHNcR7Iz0lz2jZA7onQ8Jc6H_VVg-k9G9zugKidvi7PM8OmoDW5ZnqADM/w320-h240/IMG_20211102_170919960.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heavy shade, traffic and excessive moisture<br />make turf grass struggle to thrive</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyiXBz_fuvCGOby4Pq8bEDUbKHHDIiuphrvekHOa2Pr56EKBJ61ITrFLBC7HPasHSxA54i5Xz_C6BUhuRAqDidnjSDeXd4p6lAQpCN77okXZY_Qbhbr9aKB2rPqptAuOjiw1KnXS2OVtB1RhGwJW1AQY0STfg42fLsTwfB4WT5gXFmGMsHHYzU54Nl/s4096/IMG_20211102_170914122.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyiXBz_fuvCGOby4Pq8bEDUbKHHDIiuphrvekHOa2Pr56EKBJ61ITrFLBC7HPasHSxA54i5Xz_C6BUhuRAqDidnjSDeXd4p6lAQpCN77okXZY_Qbhbr9aKB2rPqptAuOjiw1KnXS2OVtB1RhGwJW1AQY0STfg42fLsTwfB4WT5gXFmGMsHHYzU54Nl/w320-h240/IMG_20211102_170914122.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption">Deeper shade and low growing branches<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukOhuG-8KIk5iUmGp1ZCCQ0xVl9mP2lJ5Tgi1NATy3WfA5Fu0pdifRYb8dXF1LbQ87stP2BRNyY4tuYmahp1RIS9voPsUX0iGdj2P6bSEqLnRWJQKj2axGG6Xxa0-10tUXYTaeogegWHq0Wkdya4rtqfIDBzC2RrVE0sWgM5O-Yxw9HuM_xvrVyXp/s4096/IMG_20211102_170859559.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukOhuG-8KIk5iUmGp1ZCCQ0xVl9mP2lJ5Tgi1NATy3WfA5Fu0pdifRYb8dXF1LbQ87stP2BRNyY4tuYmahp1RIS9voPsUX0iGdj2P6bSEqLnRWJQKj2axGG6Xxa0-10tUXYTaeogegWHq0Wkdya4rtqfIDBzC2RrVE0sWgM5O-Yxw9HuM_xvrVyXp/w320-h240/IMG_20211102_170859559.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Garden space, with bland spirea along the house</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUF_gifxFKMHPYaPr6dDVUZOrkDaC2Ha1AMm3Kbla_WxGKT49z1RLxVfE8z6HAsO7wztz_8hggbrFpRN3fg0DauIbeGv_sUiWPPdnn6ufbWk-3LBviB7NNSnsQ0-1PUlSy2JhL3XKW0Okh6ZBNN25Sk0wDd-kQlRuR5uZxDGgZdAXa_DjqO8UJbmi0/s4096/IMG_20211102_170940090.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUF_gifxFKMHPYaPr6dDVUZOrkDaC2Ha1AMm3Kbla_WxGKT49z1RLxVfE8z6HAsO7wztz_8hggbrFpRN3fg0DauIbeGv_sUiWPPdnn6ufbWk-3LBviB7NNSnsQ0-1PUlSy2JhL3XKW0Okh6ZBNN25Sk0wDd-kQlRuR5uZxDGgZdAXa_DjqO8UJbmi0/w320-h240/IMG_20211102_170940090.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>These bushes on the back window were lanky and just not very interesting, they were hoping for something better, maybe even edible. The blueberries they already had were doing great! We decided on a trio of 'Regent' Serviceberry for variety, a hardy native that also produces delicious berries.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvV1xGEf-Bwum8NT58gT9qfeBAfYS4sI6zSvh0_8RyYgshZDjVjZ0tdudEVpNKoIFnQD9y3UnQ5P7lZ6tXnrLA3mel2QqcvO86Tw2fpO3QfgaP59-cZWQeiKa5wummV4mAjvXEEMcELKvPu6cNnMkM9cCQEfCsgTPGKS0judbaXUvESdL2lWvVYLPE/s4096/IMG_20211102_171107508.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvV1xGEf-Bwum8NT58gT9qfeBAfYS4sI6zSvh0_8RyYgshZDjVjZ0tdudEVpNKoIFnQD9y3UnQ5P7lZ6tXnrLA3mel2QqcvO86Tw2fpO3QfgaP59-cZWQeiKa5wummV4mAjvXEEMcELKvPu6cNnMkM9cCQEfCsgTPGKS0judbaXUvESdL2lWvVYLPE/w320-h240/IMG_20211102_171107508.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>This area was also in heavy shade from a maple tree with an expansive canopy. Grass had always struggled along this access area in and out of the backyard, too. Maybe we could use the 'problem as the solution' and just take the turf grass out of the equation for this part of the yard?</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Solutions- </div><div><br /></div><div>The shade was hindering the lawn from drying out, but the cause of the initial wetness was downspouts pouring into the yard, shallow slope preventing proper drainage and a large amount of runoff from a neighboring hillside.</div><div><br /></div><div>We could reroute the runoff from both uphill and the downspouts, utilize the<b> <a href="http://raincampaign.org" target="_blank">city rebate program</a> </b>and create multiple spaces for adventurous play, pollinator habitat and a natural feeling space that felt more like a nature park than the suburbs. </div><div><br /></div>Many shrubs had volunteered along the back property line, including dogwood, mulberry and highly invasive honeysuckle. We removed most of these, except a few pagoda dogwood that happened fit where they were.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYeS9qSPRlpjGbs951bKwl13snCK0fy0eY97MM-G16LO43OwCjMuLwkHwlStsy3V8Vo8dh2nzTWLIWKJFrWjpuhcvHjWD9r66xq4ZEH1PwRbkBp2k0_Py-qpYyOjahr9Z872UqlWPCq03nIxbnEreZZnzveD6Jm2yjHFnyiWVIKYqbKoitgiq_y9o6/s4096/IMG_20220630_155836672_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYeS9qSPRlpjGbs951bKwl13snCK0fy0eY97MM-G16LO43OwCjMuLwkHwlStsy3V8Vo8dh2nzTWLIWKJFrWjpuhcvHjWD9r66xq4ZEH1PwRbkBp2k0_Py-qpYyOjahr9Z872UqlWPCq03nIxbnEreZZnzveD6Jm2yjHFnyiWVIKYqbKoitgiq_y9o6/s320/IMG_20220630_155836672_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I <i>love </i>using the stump bucket to remove honeysuckle!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7D5XTygDuUoijTtZuPua7uQX8962bqaWRjbO3k0QcL3ukr8TmxwE6QhdoXAHaRRVEtE0_t5QItVlZ7_kXdyM7Ljk14F8VsJw9QuvRfWoeKhVfZ2RrNc5uERs6ApHImT-Qkywo2DPkus8qFzJdzhk9j3tVt2QU2hkbHhthDpiUKeEPubMrD6ChzWYP/s4096/IMG_20220705_163110778.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7D5XTygDuUoijTtZuPua7uQX8962bqaWRjbO3k0QcL3ukr8TmxwE6QhdoXAHaRRVEtE0_t5QItVlZ7_kXdyM7Ljk14F8VsJw9QuvRfWoeKhVfZ2RrNc5uERs6ApHImT-Qkywo2DPkus8qFzJdzhk9j3tVt2QU2hkbHhthDpiUKeEPubMrD6ChzWYP/w400-h300/IMG_20220705_163110778.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div>We raised the canopy on the evergreens to open up the feel, leaving some climbing rungs for tree borne adventures. You can also see the grading for the swale that will push water to the rain garden and away from the lawn.</div><div><br /></div><div><span style="text-align: center;">A designated walkway - the "jungle path" as the kids called it - was made using a darker shade of mulch, which will allow traffic in the area but keep the new plantings from being trampled.</span></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnSFOKT9hfl_eJUmDDh46pTgEJnmevQZPRR70XdwMv-DXPyZR2UCY0kVCfEXq5cKTHpLqgXQSaPxYryt44cKt7ssI9TgtsYsL-Nyfgcojt0eSmPImHUAoj0mfEzECZRmn4XqGHqJx7TlDh1mUfIHig5tpRqXmKQQfZKq1a33zkd4THxInMF9DOWd6/s4096/IMG_20220715_175638378.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitnSFOKT9hfl_eJUmDDh46pTgEJnmevQZPRR70XdwMv-DXPyZR2UCY0kVCfEXq5cKTHpLqgXQSaPxYryt44cKt7ssI9TgtsYsL-Nyfgcojt0eSmPImHUAoj0mfEzECZRmn4XqGHqJx7TlDh1mUfIHig5tpRqXmKQQfZKq1a33zkd4THxInMF9DOWd6/s320/IMG_20220715_175638378.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tripod sprinklers kept the newly installed plants and sod<br />hydrated during the long, hot and dry peak of summer.</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNwivx8BGome9-a3zqmX1FVjvObyJqeo3t56kzlTSmOs64FqdIHJrZC5pVHwbf8ZWVD-mU5m-N_ROd9ZA1_jcQklJdBJBHZYeLDUXpPI0dAcyClq7O3OyiZBH1mrEiLx2v9n18ASAonzNan1hY8NXfNdafiqOlHDaG_5tXCI_B1wn2cKRfb4XVTBM/s4096/IMG_20220721_145115939.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDNwivx8BGome9-a3zqmX1FVjvObyJqeo3t56kzlTSmOs64FqdIHJrZC5pVHwbf8ZWVD-mU5m-N_ROd9ZA1_jcQklJdBJBHZYeLDUXpPI0dAcyClq7O3OyiZBH1mrEiLx2v9n18ASAonzNan1hY8NXfNdafiqOlHDaG_5tXCI_B1wn2cKRfb4XVTBM/s320/IMG_20220721_145115939.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stream installed, fescue sod going in for the final touch</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSd9vopzEYu8F2K41UJu0buZMmJxJSiHbZDi81ECTTz7PS3ZTKlrw1NP6l_kfbODYbGapY7CY4KQ1V4iC7JnrHxwmXgtASyeHjWEcsiT53BV5X1N-HdLQx9SgP0_ZmQpidqNK_3_i5UiOB4le9nlscEomK56J9eNQBZ0zsuxTIJ6gIZ-WY36Ow2Pyq/s4096/IMG_20220726_092326983.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSd9vopzEYu8F2K41UJu0buZMmJxJSiHbZDi81ECTTz7PS3ZTKlrw1NP6l_kfbODYbGapY7CY4KQ1V4iC7JnrHxwmXgtASyeHjWEcsiT53BV5X1N-HdLQx9SgP0_ZmQpidqNK_3_i5UiOB4le9nlscEomK56J9eNQBZ0zsuxTIJ6gIZ-WY36Ow2Pyq/w400-h300/IMG_20220726_092326983.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A rain garden captures the runoff and sinks it into the ground <br />instead of flooding the neighbors and storm sewer system</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Remember the shady access way where grass struggled? We created a woodland garden with a limestone path for access. We were lucky and could use mostly reclaimed limestone steppers found under the volunteer shrubs. The nearby downspouts were routed to this space where native shade loving plants won't mind the extra moisture - including ferns, sedges and wild geranium. A couple gooseberry shrubs won't mind the shade either and provide a seasonal snack for adventurous young explorers.<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J6gbWb7wFo6DhkngnLySF9aGDE_jSWTHq9RYBcdLkOMmBfX04wNpykSRYn8FzPz8eMLGZv0OcNmSWhaTrXcgSXBks9A1Fr72EeEIOY8BeGRaZ6KVqY-VxnXdoRSj6aODonbdvsJDoXvkW8384zJlKDzlAN_OaxV9TEbw1QGPo9w5i53rkzIYCeSh/s4096/IMG_20220718_133214086.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7J6gbWb7wFo6DhkngnLySF9aGDE_jSWTHq9RYBcdLkOMmBfX04wNpykSRYn8FzPz8eMLGZv0OcNmSWhaTrXcgSXBks9A1Fr72EeEIOY8BeGRaZ6KVqY-VxnXdoRSj6aODonbdvsJDoXvkW8384zJlKDzlAN_OaxV9TEbw1QGPo9w5i53rkzIYCeSh/w400-h300/IMG_20220718_133214086.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Shade tolerant access path planting</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p>In addition, the front planting island around the flagpole was overgrown with a massive burning bush (also invasive), volunteer mulberries and plastic edging that had seen better days (no before picture). Tumbled granite added an updated and durable edge to this bed. All of the existing vegetation was removed and replaced with Midwest native plants, like an Aronia bush and New Jersey Tea tree. Butterfly milkweed, rudbeckia and echinacea were among the flowering forbs, with switchgrass for height and textural contrast in the center and fronted by lower growing clumps of prairie dropseed.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOf8-OK-YC4ePZRYR7eYiHm_iRAfXyuJn5pIzPF-dwp32nhceVk8ciVRrt8Lh9hRKUh-DVF9OVBol-_7MWE2jtzEFoBjEG_SjNEtIztyIIREYVHcdB7DdWHlp-7onDoAaF1nbgZSW1SgyEciHwWpxZNQfgc6Bb-sHIYzLycuenCFDt3qsu_gtAYwJx/s4096/IMG_20220718_083519285.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOf8-OK-YC4ePZRYR7eYiHm_iRAfXyuJn5pIzPF-dwp32nhceVk8ciVRrt8Lh9hRKUh-DVF9OVBol-_7MWE2jtzEFoBjEG_SjNEtIztyIIREYVHcdB7DdWHlp-7onDoAaF1nbgZSW1SgyEciHwWpxZNQfgc6Bb-sHIYzLycuenCFDt3qsu_gtAYwJx/s320/IMG_20220718_083519285.jpg" width="320" /></a></p><p><br /></p><p>The shade on this project was very welcome during this summer's heat!</p>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-22895080189747411972023-02-16T06:30:00.004-06:002023-02-16T06:30:00.172-06:00Best of Houzz 2023<p>Thrilled to share that Abundant Design is a <a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/abundantdesignllc" target="_blank">Best of Houzz 2023</a> winner!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.houzz.com/pro/abundantdesignllc/abundant-design-llc" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="2160" data-original-width="2160" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5UlW4Q7BBHMbpey6OcIe8ywyTtmjT9-sBMnmLLvKX0Kac-PQqXttscwxIyeLsPgvwcJmebMl_DIHp7DTEGJ4vRat2tmRbz1f09BlAcpN7sb7Gm6Dn3CsTXzSpxCdZSnkkCiNul5W8N_MCKnhp1L-3z93FrVB3_9z8lUoXLs7475B1sKPWJkzRn4jX/s320/Houzz23Serve.png" width="320" /></a></div><p style="text-align: center;">We’re so proud of all the team has accomplished and honored to be recognized for the hard work we put in on behalf of our clients.</p><p><br /></p>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-12027733151598580432023-02-07T07:00:00.001-06:002023-02-07T07:00:00.177-06:00Epic Permaculture Backyard Retreat p2<p>Not many projects bring in so many elements onto one property. This was an ambitious project and one that checks a lot of boxes by integrating stormwater management and permaculture guilds with traditional landscaping elements!</p><blockquote><p style="text-align: center;">Permaculture design provides a wonderful toolbox to integrate all of these elements into one cohesive design.</p></blockquote><p>Part 2 of this project summary will focus on the productive parts of the backyard.</p><p></p><p>From the deck you can see many of the elements in the backyard-</p><p></p><p></p><ul><ul><li>Fruit guilds </li><ul><li>trees and berry bushes with productive and/or beneficial perennial plants</li></ul><li>Annual garden, compost bin & herb spiral</li><ul><li>rain barrel (for the best water) right by the garden</li></ul><li>Patio & firepit</li><li>Waterfall</li></ul></ul><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAauZsDooZIKF68CyL-nnvaFJKu5edae0JMzkJR9sjS5OLu_bc-aU1WLUoEDus4kBzdycG9U8nU5P_3WVGfG-T6ti1EmfovymbGHrjEpIVhAF-wn8twJuORvXyPL_zRvjZRfM-uTXZH4xCLYPbUozT2OBEfBTl8pOw8t81cJFYqW7oOXi3DLk2cEfH/s4096/IMG_20220708_135208275_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAauZsDooZIKF68CyL-nnvaFJKu5edae0JMzkJR9sjS5OLu_bc-aU1WLUoEDus4kBzdycG9U8nU5P_3WVGfG-T6ti1EmfovymbGHrjEpIVhAF-wn8twJuORvXyPL_zRvjZRfM-uTXZH4xCLYPbUozT2OBEfBTl8pOw8t81cJFYqW7oOXi3DLk2cEfH/w400-h300/IMG_20220708_135208275_HDR.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overlooking this new productive and relaxing backyard space<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The site had a very challenging slope that was difficult and dangerous to mow, with poor soil quality, erosion and soggy areas. We finished this amazing residential project last season.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><i><a href="http://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2022/11/epic-backyard-permaculture-retreat-p1.html" target="_blank">If you missed Part 1, read that <u>here</u></a></i></b></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPY9vglYaOODVMgDRM4EeqAim0OiYdufFiLSGtWWJ8_SDSAor2uPajuPsQx6Ss13LJS-A9AtVYzHHc7xqaOIfFD1MDbuM6vZczhXBOrPS-bu98cPzHwDOi1wrAjLtRrVnA2jWKQAm9hYpzFZwCTZyvkqx4OAyXcebzg2uTeZz8QFgUxv_gkbeRozR/s4096/IMG_20220708_120126252.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPY9vglYaOODVMgDRM4EeqAim0OiYdufFiLSGtWWJ8_SDSAor2uPajuPsQx6Ss13LJS-A9AtVYzHHc7xqaOIfFD1MDbuM6vZczhXBOrPS-bu98cPzHwDOi1wrAjLtRrVnA2jWKQAm9hYpzFZwCTZyvkqx4OAyXcebzg2uTeZz8QFgUxv_gkbeRozR/s320/IMG_20220708_120126252.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enhanced rain garden and dry stream bed.</td></tr></tbody></table><p>This water feature is a feast for all the senses and could provide a drink for pollinators and beneficial insects like dragonflies. The surrounding prairie planting provides habitat and attracts pollinating insects necessary for fruit and vegetable production.</p><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='475' height='288' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxItEP_l3YzLGrkeJ-_jSrNRVYJ7EKNfyLBPW4f85zCHcFg3cCvoEMdNOIiAJGeBiC8bAbg5X3Kez2si1nKVw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div>Pondless waterfall with prairie planting behind</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Moving down the slope, the stream separates the lawn from the peach and bramble guild. Bee balm and thyme are companion planting powerhouses; they attract pollinators, are a beneficial part of foraging bees' diet and have antimicrobial properties that may help prevent diseases in vulnerable fruit trees. The yarrow in the understory also attracts predatory insects, like lacewings and syrphid flies, that keep pest species in check.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07TGOOpbxNYA88_fLkAIqnyAEijx6I5dlzaTDgSvRxGEHS589V9teh27lrJB0E7R65-uuHBKJXYAv_jAW3NVZq3k1mSqz1BT2FLlbAIH4gfmqMf3sRL2F-b8rLlndxg-aTDh3fhfiF6QnZ0toE6XZelj3x81A1mp8sf4rmCLnaxKooNaYRnys57G0/s4096/IMG_20220711_152029158.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj07TGOOpbxNYA88_fLkAIqnyAEijx6I5dlzaTDgSvRxGEHS589V9teh27lrJB0E7R65-uuHBKJXYAv_jAW3NVZq3k1mSqz1BT2FLlbAIH4gfmqMf3sRL2F-b8rLlndxg-aTDh3fhfiF6QnZ0toE6XZelj3x81A1mp8sf4rmCLnaxKooNaYRnys57G0/w400-h300/IMG_20220711_152029158.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peach trees with black berries, raspberries and other<br />companion plantings.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjph_Sb4SxMKp6GMrip4W_cgTA2Afz59r96aZ-p2pyeVMY38alhQ25O45c8Lw5u6afViuv3ne6hWcfvHJACXKRLSHozvONvzu3Wr33Ds_kryHo2XS-pvPBGjkQjIv4zt94I6Ax1y3Mk8DBuGmOrZft1YpC8nFcgezfbc0s0FCaHABb5KjQdE0zA9lt1/s4096/IMG_20220628_104521012_HDR.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjph_Sb4SxMKp6GMrip4W_cgTA2Afz59r96aZ-p2pyeVMY38alhQ25O45c8Lw5u6afViuv3ne6hWcfvHJACXKRLSHozvONvzu3Wr33Ds_kryHo2XS-pvPBGjkQjIv4zt94I6Ax1y3Mk8DBuGmOrZft1YpC8nFcgezfbc0s0FCaHABb5KjQdE0zA9lt1/s320/IMG_20220628_104521012_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Constructing the herb spiral-<br /> also high on the customer wish list</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNe9mJl7L4Im4yT9_7z0g_cfCmaMZrpYe0cGzjTWty5pmM4j3mbvDYBd0pMu33L9Wkb6ohQD7iBfK4EiGde2ceYIhtvXLScD25aoYbVbwAaDSXqvDfCuftQqQEORkx4zD0UiHAcrh24FcavgK5lAe0dbV0qTzGnOEMG5mbGHrEkynvqmztyUKpIFo/s4096/IMG_20220708_135325892_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyNe9mJl7L4Im4yT9_7z0g_cfCmaMZrpYe0cGzjTWty5pmM4j3mbvDYBd0pMu33L9Wkb6ohQD7iBfK4EiGde2ceYIhtvXLScD25aoYbVbwAaDSXqvDfCuftQqQEORkx4zD0UiHAcrh24FcavgK5lAe0dbV0qTzGnOEMG5mbGHrEkynvqmztyUKpIFo/s320/IMG_20220708_135325892_HDR.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Herb spiral with historical salvaged bricks, rain garden<br />overflow stream in the background.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />Herb spirals are often found in permaculture gardens and something the customer really wanted to include. A spiral pattern is one that repeats in nature and depending on the herb spiral's size can induce microclimates that can be targeted with herbs that appreciate them. Herbs are generally quite resilient and do well in these raised systems which can be too dry for typical vegetables. We positioned this one near the edge of the lawn for easy access and near the annual vegetable garden.</div><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCyvsFFL7m0xtmWnzArA8JeHHeQknA-EaAcpFHTdfkKDuwUEYX_AIM8DC1havI8Ov07fMoBiXoIlR6W34-PBTG29sORr3MUeFqDa9fNby2lriHIojCQtxxwgMgr3e6odbYh_b8EgnSQiOBZ2HigQgd4dyHCHBYCpiQ_RntQxSnF99qYf4bgY6s5Js/s4096/IMG_20220706_103818234.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoCyvsFFL7m0xtmWnzArA8JeHHeQknA-EaAcpFHTdfkKDuwUEYX_AIM8DC1havI8Ov07fMoBiXoIlR6W34-PBTG29sORr3MUeFqDa9fNby2lriHIojCQtxxwgMgr3e6odbYh_b8EgnSQiOBZ2HigQgd4dyHCHBYCpiQ_RntQxSnF99qYf4bgY6s5Js/w400-h300/IMG_20220706_103818234.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking across the raised keyhole garden beds<br />as the sod was being finished. With the amount of<br />earth sculpting, sod was needed for the small lawn.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9p2JX-74NaBJTFBBjQ36wPmwuZUrrwimPr9ZhH0OZ5ZGXWQ3YfJTKs7qB8dNxrTLst_jYdMg2JoxOpt4EIMHXUonFKPEyW2MhhgaeOgZeyzPgrNafZdBrizo1VbYnX2n-SNdLuoCtXWG9vgbc7-EddI-d1g2TKHzlh--7_vxphq4eMVPWVRRkOEs/s4096/IMG_20211118_101540346.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE9p2JX-74NaBJTFBBjQ36wPmwuZUrrwimPr9ZhH0OZ5ZGXWQ3YfJTKs7qB8dNxrTLst_jYdMg2JoxOpt4EIMHXUonFKPEyW2MhhgaeOgZeyzPgrNafZdBrizo1VbYnX2n-SNdLuoCtXWG9vgbc7-EddI-d1g2TKHzlh--7_vxphq4eMVPWVRRkOEs/w200-h150/IMG_20211118_101540346.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before - Garden space</td></tr></tbody></table>The vegetable garden was originally located where the new patio is. It was moved to open up the center of the yard while still keep it accessible. It also allowed us to move all of the gardening space together. The "keyhole garden bed" was rebuilt trying to salvage as many plants as possible.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUeCSTLhNKIkEV3QITF8FisUjD-vfgcqlT4tU5aewlqkMhYQEudoDp26g-86HUWUvar1ztUdHzVm4URWA5vPlm24kV87zTx84V8uYLsH3kPY4YTTvPAs5brJj5aesOE71tGESHCVqPnj5gJTVrtjafU4sho4OwQIv39fp-b3ZzZCybLlSE_rrFVxX/s4096/IMG_20220711_154745556.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUeCSTLhNKIkEV3QITF8FisUjD-vfgcqlT4tU5aewlqkMhYQEudoDp26g-86HUWUvar1ztUdHzVm4URWA5vPlm24kV87zTx84V8uYLsH3kPY4YTTvPAs5brJj5aesOE71tGESHCVqPnj5gJTVrtjafU4sho4OwQIv39fp-b3ZzZCybLlSE_rrFVxX/s320/IMG_20220711_154745556.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Keyhole garden beds with composter behind.<br />A rain barrel is on a stand behind the stairs.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>The composters were moved from the shed/rain garden area here where garden and kitchen waste are easily added; and finished compost will be handy to amend the soil in the garden. </div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjkT3_n6DCbcRdZHLMf2JNiy1HXekG5odNSpMlXljk7Qai3oHFp-Qjbhke5DAJY-7FNRz5zvobgXtb_3HyxN5bzMuu2VQGXwuqsB2soT4i_83hm0gQTW9CSzAUqm52kOpr_EFI4yTcyyjCngWz8VZtqPl4lFHyx-H2MJsIyY7p6Vj2-UPJyQhn5xqc" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="821" data-original-width="1082" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgjkT3_n6DCbcRdZHLMf2JNiy1HXekG5odNSpMlXljk7Qai3oHFp-Qjbhke5DAJY-7FNRz5zvobgXtb_3HyxN5bzMuu2VQGXwuqsB2soT4i_83hm0gQTW9CSzAUqm52kOpr_EFI4yTcyyjCngWz8VZtqPl4lFHyx-H2MJsIyY7p6Vj2-UPJyQhn5xqc" width="316" /></a></div><br /></div><div>We also moved a rain barrel from the other side so that rainwater from the downspout is captured under the deck right near the garden for use.</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyF_LagyJWrSdq388GrU0nL6cL32OfieBk3jPcFr2z6DFyk8OJjVW16zkdLJxQJt8ff8x7LpW-SRV2rTozD9az7U2yq76G2q4QUAjQb7uvyaWvRXxAQN9ofbVbdqUZ-0JjGmfQ74IcUzXEgXAuEcLdnPI6G8OLEN81WWKk76AsTEcFq3G71cvmHW1v/s4096/IMG_20220711_154544889.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyF_LagyJWrSdq388GrU0nL6cL32OfieBk3jPcFr2z6DFyk8OJjVW16zkdLJxQJt8ff8x7LpW-SRV2rTozD9az7U2yq76G2q4QUAjQb7uvyaWvRXxAQN9ofbVbdqUZ-0JjGmfQ74IcUzXEgXAuEcLdnPI6G8OLEN81WWKk76AsTEcFq3G71cvmHW1v/s320/IMG_20220711_154544889.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Native pollinator beds were already established, we just added the <br />planting space on the hardest to mow areas - between the tree guilds.<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeN16Iv6yZtFdR_C2PYw9EymtFAfs1GpHFmzHgIKXGJ3ciSqJYkeigW8yeyjF-lMEP0Wj5sXobYPZxVRc1XC-r5Vo2QWIEnoWOV-JFRAHuz9WvTtvi0Q7ARZ65tnHzcZO6jHTsovRAavTLq0O7Nkxln8hqz2lRi4pZNezzLReoTssnvyfTDl6uFPo/s4096/IMG_20220711_151923840.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSeN16Iv6yZtFdR_C2PYw9EymtFAfs1GpHFmzHgIKXGJ3ciSqJYkeigW8yeyjF-lMEP0Wj5sXobYPZxVRc1XC-r5Vo2QWIEnoWOV-JFRAHuz9WvTtvi0Q7ARZ65tnHzcZO6jHTsovRAavTLq0O7Nkxln8hqz2lRi4pZNezzLReoTssnvyfTDl6uFPo/s320/IMG_20220711_151923840.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apple guild view from below<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: center;">The apple guild </span><span style="text-align: center;">includes rhubarb, gooseberries and currants. Strawberries were used as a productive ground cover, along with pockets of clover for nitrogen fixation. The tree spacing allows a good deal of sun through for fruit production but does provide shade in the afternoons which strawberries appreciate. The swale on contour captures runoff from above </span><span style="text-align: center;">hydrating</span><span style="text-align: center;"> the plants below.</span><span style="text-align: center;"> The access </span><span style="text-align: center;">paths (dark mulch) also follow the contour to prevent </span><span style="text-align: center;">erosion and make them easier to navigate.</span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBfawKlVVMn43Rnpcbecd2_3uhsMpmMJWRQa4hzvGxVTLRfS8FH7xlvs2Ng59m-dUDFB-qpcR3nlKX86Rft_EXzmZNrKQiKZJiZWBiqrxa5oBy_KCS634yEEGm5uDHzUfawtXLNclbetPo1YAqhGhTFYy1er-kDwVyRqgqhnPw8CIwVpD-5WvhtLn/s4096/IMG_20220708_135203502.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBfawKlVVMn43Rnpcbecd2_3uhsMpmMJWRQa4hzvGxVTLRfS8FH7xlvs2Ng59m-dUDFB-qpcR3nlKX86Rft_EXzmZNrKQiKZJiZWBiqrxa5oBy_KCS634yEEGm5uDHzUfawtXLNclbetPo1YAqhGhTFYy1er-kDwVyRqgqhnPw8CIwVpD-5WvhtLn/w400-h300/IMG_20220708_135203502.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Apple guild, view from the deck -<br />you can just see the compost bins and garden at the bottom</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><div><p>Now for the understory plants to fill in! I'm really looking forward to revisiting this yard as it develops.</p><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">#fruitguilds #raingarden #prairie #pollinator #herbspiral #keyholebed #compost</div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-24830739712476199122022-11-29T19:56:00.001-06:002023-07-10T22:19:31.810-05:00Epic Backyard Permaculture Retreat p1<p>Not many projects bring in so many elements onto one property. This was an ambitious project and one that checks a lot of boxes by integrating stormwater management and permaculture guilds with traditional landscaping elements!</p><blockquote><p style="text-align: center;">Permaculture design provides a wonderful toolbox to integrate all of these elements into one cohesive design.</p></blockquote><p>In the first part of this project summary, we'll focus on the slope and stormwater issues.</p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAauZsDooZIKF68CyL-nnvaFJKu5edae0JMzkJR9sjS5OLu_bc-aU1WLUoEDus4kBzdycG9U8nU5P_3WVGfG-T6ti1EmfovymbGHrjEpIVhAF-wn8twJuORvXyPL_zRvjZRfM-uTXZH4xCLYPbUozT2OBEfBTl8pOw8t81cJFYqW7oOXi3DLk2cEfH/s4096/IMG_20220708_135208275_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAauZsDooZIKF68CyL-nnvaFJKu5edae0JMzkJR9sjS5OLu_bc-aU1WLUoEDus4kBzdycG9U8nU5P_3WVGfG-T6ti1EmfovymbGHrjEpIVhAF-wn8twJuORvXyPL_zRvjZRfM-uTXZH4xCLYPbUozT2OBEfBTl8pOw8t81cJFYqW7oOXi3DLk2cEfH/w400-h300/IMG_20220708_135208275_HDR.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Overlooking this new productive and relaxing backyard space</td></tr></tbody></table><p>The site had a very challenging slope that was difficult to enjoy and dangerous to mow. Also, poor soil quality and grading caused erosion issues and soggy areas in the yard. Discussions started last fall, and we were able to finish this amazing residential project earlier this year.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPY9vglYaOODVMgDRM4EeqAim0OiYdufFiLSGtWWJ8_SDSAor2uPajuPsQx6Ss13LJS-A9AtVYzHHc7xqaOIfFD1MDbuM6vZczhXBOrPS-bu98cPzHwDOi1wrAjLtRrVnA2jWKQAm9hYpzFZwCTZyvkqx4OAyXcebzg2uTeZz8QFgUxv_gkbeRozR/s4096/IMG_20220708_120126252.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicPY9vglYaOODVMgDRM4EeqAim0OiYdufFiLSGtWWJ8_SDSAor2uPajuPsQx6Ss13LJS-A9AtVYzHHc7xqaOIfFD1MDbuM6vZczhXBOrPS-bu98cPzHwDOi1wrAjLtRrVnA2jWKQAm9hYpzFZwCTZyvkqx4OAyXcebzg2uTeZz8QFgUxv_gkbeRozR/s320/IMG_20220708_120126252.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enhanced rain garden near the top of the watershed captures runoff from <br />the homeowners' roof as well as the problematic runoff from the neighboring<br />yard which is captured and routed by the dry stream.</td></tr></tbody></table> <br />A water feature was a must have, with the sound of flowing water the space becomes a feast for all the senses. Although actually separate from the stormwater solution, the waterfall is situated to appear as part of the stream system that includes the rain garden and final swale. Bordering the patio, it muffles traffic noise and provides visual and audible appeal.<div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='400' height='333' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzlv1jqjqwFWyz6MWfsl4btGWro9Kz4W1j6ViRc_4johnwIGsNZ2MpN0E8J1aVPuVhHKoKZ9iJoA9y4fjOcWA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Pondless waterfall with prairie planting behind</div><div><br /></div><div>Moving down the slope, the stream separates the lawn from the surrounding plantings.</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBfawKlVVMn43Rnpcbecd2_3uhsMpmMJWRQa4hzvGxVTLRfS8FH7xlvs2Ng59m-dUDFB-qpcR3nlKX86Rft_EXzmZNrKQiKZJiZWBiqrxa5oBy_KCS634yEEGm5uDHzUfawtXLNclbetPo1YAqhGhTFYy1er-kDwVyRqgqhnPw8CIwVpD-5WvhtLn/s4096/IMG_20220708_135203502.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIBfawKlVVMn43Rnpcbecd2_3uhsMpmMJWRQa4hzvGxVTLRfS8FH7xlvs2Ng59m-dUDFB-qpcR3nlKX86Rft_EXzmZNrKQiKZJiZWBiqrxa5oBy_KCS634yEEGm5uDHzUfawtXLNclbetPo1YAqhGhTFYy1er-kDwVyRqgqhnPw8CIwVpD-5WvhtLn/w400-h300/IMG_20220708_135203502.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The swale running along the center path above the apple guild<br />and last-minute addition of footbridge on the top right</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: center;">The apple guild </span><span style="text-align: center;">includes this swale on contour, which captures runoff from above </span><span style="text-align: center;">hydrating</span><span style="text-align: center;"> the plants below; </span><span style="text-align: center;">and will </span><span style="text-align: center;">also</span><span style="text-align: center;"> </span><span style="text-align: center;">act as a pathway for excess runoff during major rain events. The access </span><span style="text-align: center;">paths (dark mulch) also follow the contour preventing </span><span style="text-align: center;">erosion. Also keeping them on contour makes them easier to navigate.</span></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0v5I2RiqJdJs2aXax4alqVeOI7U9uaw2nPxaxe9GS3-NdnGf_7VW0gANYSJ0u-TL6MQyZ6fCEV58GXEWRWi-paOn8GSV2gM50PvzXUOpbGzMrXmPSBmy3TqV7Z43dCXIUoTUvqh5oH-B9Dxbza18UiB07ib7mfwQY-w4tYvOoHUXSGl_jiSoJP27w/s4096/IMG_20220708_135129774.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0v5I2RiqJdJs2aXax4alqVeOI7U9uaw2nPxaxe9GS3-NdnGf_7VW0gANYSJ0u-TL6MQyZ6fCEV58GXEWRWi-paOn8GSV2gM50PvzXUOpbGzMrXmPSBmy3TqV7Z43dCXIUoTUvqh5oH-B9Dxbza18UiB07ib7mfwQY-w4tYvOoHUXSGl_jiSoJP27w/w400-h300/IMG_20220708_135129774.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Final spillway for the rain garden, stream and swale system<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p>The other side of the house was even steeper and more dangerous to mow. It got a native planting makeover with more pollinator habitat and less mowing on the steep grade. Boulder retaining walls with limestone stairs make accessing the backyard easy from this side, too.</p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRdP38rBW5ghzzP-vfTecOuDBiCgfPhAqZa7OilETECj-xihrTInSOfdc2UxhWI2nvjqNF2onc5ydvP5irxv5ek9gH-M3-0zEr2PQ7HtpPNwNNgsm1bDRjBDgOE0RRNCGsiAOvwzQ6YvmxoZItPi7x_2gywC9tMsfcmfTCTJoimSHSInz_Xk8gE2v/s1192/boulder%20stairs%20natives.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="701" data-original-width="1192" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnRdP38rBW5ghzzP-vfTecOuDBiCgfPhAqZa7OilETECj-xihrTInSOfdc2UxhWI2nvjqNF2onc5ydvP5irxv5ek9gH-M3-0zEr2PQ7HtpPNwNNgsm1bDRjBDgOE0RRNCGsiAOvwzQ6YvmxoZItPi7x_2gywC9tMsfcmfTCTJoimSHSInz_Xk8gE2v/w400-h235/boulder%20stairs%20natives.png" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">#fruitguilds #raingarden #prairie #pollinator</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Stay tuned for <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2022/11/epic-backyard-permaculture-retreat-p1.html">Part 2</a>!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-54752810801104385132022-10-25T04:00:00.001-05:002022-10-25T04:00:00.158-05:00How Much Rain Did We Get? <p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYhPDmSOTA7Jska3wpZrLZOwFf0t2gJbUNz75iYE-e_sy87eeTRYAw44mXyp1Nwds1Sr2CCwXp_1_0Su3FPFzSbWB-FwStb5GMBfqqKhu16jlzSms0o_tazDKCALy9Yqau_N6f9NPmvCG9yTRxKe8wsdzSdhnLWfDfuAtpcvBO8vK6sB_q_GEOK2S/s4096/IMG_20220902_085641380.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnYhPDmSOTA7Jska3wpZrLZOwFf0t2gJbUNz75iYE-e_sy87eeTRYAw44mXyp1Nwds1Sr2CCwXp_1_0Su3FPFzSbWB-FwStb5GMBfqqKhu16jlzSms0o_tazDKCALy9Yqau_N6f9NPmvCG9yTRxKe8wsdzSdhnLWfDfuAtpcvBO8vK6sB_q_GEOK2S/s320/IMG_20220902_085641380.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>I've determined that recent rainfall accumulation is a difficult thing to find on the internet. <p></p><p>It might be too dark or far to see your rain gauge from the house, or you didn't notice the crack in it before... (or you might not want to go check it with your PJs on and sneak back to bed!) </p><p>Many otherwise great weather apps are filled with current conditions and 7/10-day forecasts. Unfortunately, this isn't helpful when trying to determine watering schedules or if a site is going to be too muddy for work.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iweathernet.com/total-rainfall-map-24-hours-to-72-hours" target="_blank"><b>This website has been great!</b></a></p><p style="text-align: center;">You can zoom in to your home or jobsite location and select rainfall totals for up to three days back.</p><p>The site uses Doppler radar technology to provide very accurate estimates of accumulated precipitation. Their maps will display on almost all smartphones, tablets and computers. I've had great comparisons with my own and customers' rain gauges.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iweathernet.com/total-rainfall-map-24-hours-to-72-hours"><b>https://www.iweathernet.com/total-rainfall-map-24-hours-to-72-hours<o:p></o:p></b></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.iweathernet.com/total-rainfall-map-24-hours-to-72-hours" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" data-original-height="1287" data-original-width="760" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfuCVGlAk_PF2Qczd8PnxzVMUF58aW6h6nvAcR1houvDTxZi8fGGAax4R0GW0w5NY8UpY5hHnqi-ynB4-LfpTmTDf3iKBKzCI5NNpXhN7zqLmc52w1PtNl7t81Z3yhfW8uTWr8Ca42llS_MvWy0P5apY8RTHMXo-unpp7cgbjuYkFgJv1_zLlb4HBm/w378-h640/Screenshot_20220902-074134.png" width="378" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-1015232857914141682022-10-24T14:57:00.001-05:002022-10-24T15:28:08.603-05:00Backyard Food Forest - Polk City<p>We do a fair amount of landscaping focusing on a specific problem such as erosion, pollinator gardens or stormwater management. But...</p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>Permaculture is our passion!</b></p><p style="text-align: left;">Permaculture is an ethics-based design science rooted in observation of natural ecosystems and mimicking those in productive landscapes. F<span style="text-align: center;">ood forests and diverse backyard orchards are a big part of that, while also offering opportunities for stormwater management, pollinator habitat and valuing and protecting resources, like topsoil and water.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNE5qfwZa_HktpA78S9qEv7cZHLoAK9rV8auSYrS35xX8lWlkfL1Te40Ldoeqjh20J6fd4cZY8-zMvzyJ9OL_01fl7B81I1Xxi8Bq2nKqjEXazXj7SSoGRKpzgRye5jxd-PPiZ9Pik9BOtr8lAoo0YAAYo8iGfi_6b9jE5n5UkXuYO_JyEjq_L6q4T=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhNE5qfwZa_HktpA78S9qEv7cZHLoAK9rV8auSYrS35xX8lWlkfL1Te40Ldoeqjh20J6fd4cZY8-zMvzyJ9OL_01fl7B81I1Xxi8Bq2nKqjEXazXj7SSoGRKpzgRye5jxd-PPiZ9Pik9BOtr8lAoo0YAAYo8iGfi_6b9jE5n5UkXuYO_JyEjq_L6q4T=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mixed orchard with productive & beneficial understory</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><div>This project was one of our bigger residential installs last year and included a small orchard. <div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPSdV1ZBIbDltiFDrHhM65U0makYkS7zSAcREPe_xKYlB3n4f57MLJBnxKqFIdhdTKy4P4-IzxU4ewlZAXf2EU805k2owILg_po97LVpFgtgOQ9gHEpQnLjjmwbY_c6a9AE2lGLUtl7MhhstMXEVMthdxjLVElrslyBnEr9BhYr_BGxUsb-Xrq4byE=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiPSdV1ZBIbDltiFDrHhM65U0makYkS7zSAcREPe_xKYlB3n4f57MLJBnxKqFIdhdTKy4P4-IzxU4ewlZAXf2EU805k2owILg_po97LVpFgtgOQ9gHEpQnLjjmwbY_c6a9AE2lGLUtl7MhhstMXEVMthdxjLVElrslyBnEr9BhYr_BGxUsb-Xrq4byE=s320" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lot of wood chips were spread,<br />many hands make light work</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgENoYDJ96aQc36bXQHLf_-oDMr-gq0xFLlmfucWhjTyy1qr73ffcR6jTIAbL6VM_4odaR2E401V71Kf1gRGSLJxYS1gqiml2UizbF5dyecIoQ7Qs-yO4460q_J6dwBo0ry9VWeDS67lTXu-Q4_0GfjRBPeFaTiTxsxY9UXze5tLtgqw88O3nQ11b_p=s4096" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgENoYDJ96aQc36bXQHLf_-oDMr-gq0xFLlmfucWhjTyy1qr73ffcR6jTIAbL6VM_4odaR2E401V71Kf1gRGSLJxYS1gqiml2UizbF5dyecIoQ7Qs-yO4460q_J6dwBo0ry9VWeDS67lTXu-Q4_0GfjRBPeFaTiTxsxY9UXze5tLtgqw88O3nQ11b_p=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Young Hazel and Aronia hedge <br />behind the pollinator garden loop</td></tr></tbody></table><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgENoYDJ96aQc36bXQHLf_-oDMr-gq0xFLlmfucWhjTyy1qr73ffcR6jTIAbL6VM_4odaR2E401V71Kf1gRGSLJxYS1gqiml2UizbF5dyecIoQ7Qs-yO4460q_J6dwBo0ry9VWeDS67lTXu-Q4_0GfjRBPeFaTiTxsxY9UXze5tLtgqw88O3nQ11b_p=s4096" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgENoYDJ96aQc36bXQHLf_-oDMr-gq0xFLlmfucWhjTyy1qr73ffcR6jTIAbL6VM_4odaR2E401V71Kf1gRGSLJxYS1gqiml2UizbF5dyecIoQ7Qs-yO4460q_J6dwBo0ry9VWeDS67lTXu-Q4_0GfjRBPeFaTiTxsxY9UXze5tLtgqw88O3nQ11b_p=s4096" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><br /></a></p>A bird friendly pollinator garden was located near the house for visibility, and near enough to support the mixed orchard plantings. A native hedge provides privacy and habitat, with hazelnuts and aronia - the latter a nutritional powerhouse with great fall color as well. <p></p><p><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnHbJWWnoGOfIxFJzBD7VGCezLdFeGaDHM3U0QhCgmI1vCqg3o8_lv7LE3P48BHdsP2SVHHsZ2K1Aexy-ANKnAxNtpsoTW40h9IBUW3L0H2pkLbUHAco9r8BcERjR2HJ2AwPSUr03vFMMJNTOabCwNHWFQC4DNaYgkfNlVidjMruyISFwTpR9FHr4H=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnHbJWWnoGOfIxFJzBD7VGCezLdFeGaDHM3U0QhCgmI1vCqg3o8_lv7LE3P48BHdsP2SVHHsZ2K1Aexy-ANKnAxNtpsoTW40h9IBUW3L0H2pkLbUHAco9r8BcERjR2HJ2AwPSUr03vFMMJNTOabCwNHWFQC4DNaYgkfNlVidjMruyISFwTpR9FHr4H=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcfd5FgvRGJSJ0-UX8w3mkhqpIXud-QyA6es33GR4R-TjNv20SeR-ul07HsFUPoN8Hw7XL6S31r8H4be8a2KG1P_24xVUu6n_F44NPSAykEeIZ0IapCPfpMaFmIG4YOv1vgZXlFS9Qo1taecEc_8wTFFw_hlWGnNI294_XwT_mX96X_9EQn2xDNfAH=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjcfd5FgvRGJSJ0-UX8w3mkhqpIXud-QyA6es33GR4R-TjNv20SeR-ul07HsFUPoN8Hw7XL6S31r8H4be8a2KG1P_24xVUu6n_F44NPSAykEeIZ0IapCPfpMaFmIG4YOv1vgZXlFS9Qo1taecEc_8wTFFw_hlWGnNI294_XwT_mX96X_9EQn2xDNfAH=s320" width="240" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">River birch, dogwoods and grasses</td></tr></tbody></table>On the other side, a strawberry patch was included expanding the garden, and privacy was enhanced in this perennial wet spot with native trees and prairie plants.<p></p><p><br /></p><p></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8_JGQ0cegHvC905uZqKvzn5siqudz5OlTn6DrJdRPMpI0BzV0cdhiWBflErXhTiBcKe5On2iKSIpEIuj8lrkFjHwutpxUnhqAhB1zBUy8UGb1GlJNPva-B4ziLNdwqMhI4KLypDkOoKrDtqLSFb9GSxjRB8kabPlM54tcUV7OgeKO8ftgAyIOzYd5=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEi8_JGQ0cegHvC905uZqKvzn5siqudz5OlTn6DrJdRPMpI0BzV0cdhiWBflErXhTiBcKe5On2iKSIpEIuj8lrkFjHwutpxUnhqAhB1zBUy8UGb1GlJNPva-B4ziLNdwqMhI4KLypDkOoKrDtqLSFb9GSxjRB8kabPlM54tcUV7OgeKO8ftgAyIOzYd5=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before - wet<br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><br /></p><p></p></div><div><br /></div><div>We even got a first-hand look at the standing water there during the install!</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63nHe9Kk6nSEYmQmR3j2euwRJ3DBL2qOJLTzF49WEj7jSe-I8YSH7HDFeIuQhM-9jm9XAviGi619eoyUVu5QJ5WUS7wTfjFN-EbqbfKz6OTI5Dm-Zq0_UvTGJanxcLYLvYeI5AtenEpr8QZWI97djhGo6Eop9ohy7Bfo3WurO5Is9aPAydwJgceD5/s2470/IMG_20210611_122809160~2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1853" data-original-width="2470" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh63nHe9Kk6nSEYmQmR3j2euwRJ3DBL2qOJLTzF49WEj7jSe-I8YSH7HDFeIuQhM-9jm9XAviGi619eoyUVu5QJ5WUS7wTfjFN-EbqbfKz6OTI5Dm-Zq0_UvTGJanxcLYLvYeI5AtenEpr8QZWI97djhGo6Eop9ohy7Bfo3WurO5Is9aPAydwJgceD5/s320/IMG_20210611_122809160~2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Dash Cam" screenshot</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDLnGsjPF3kX840-Pd7fLM-EZhBR2jBmgQJoBH6mUtd3UIfnu7C1yH08zekkEm9TZfXwSPYlf_wJtp9P2nzyzD0B6tDGEvDqmNJ2tGRo3sMh37MD1FHB15fALwsYP6MEdrbsE1_wVXW97KVDlbTfHHMrzOkp6RwKbwtUcANqiCE2I_WhgRNn7-1TQ/s4096/IMG_20210611_124626579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQDLnGsjPF3kX840-Pd7fLM-EZhBR2jBmgQJoBH6mUtd3UIfnu7C1yH08zekkEm9TZfXwSPYlf_wJtp9P2nzyzD0B6tDGEvDqmNJ2tGRo3sMh37MD1FHB15fALwsYP6MEdrbsE1_wVXW97KVDlbTfHHMrzOkp6RwKbwtUcANqiCE2I_WhgRNn7-1TQ/s320/IMG_20210611_124626579.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Standing water, potted plants waiting to go in</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFpv0ODwY7vfiW_3Mk1X5SrNo5Kay6Q8ldTXd7am86AMn_C9gvvTHBngJr1c08Yi4as0crnabLoAiUzSEkSPO2_61eHPG2T_mrAjMo6H1bUnnmsENh4ropr4r2vPgMrg0bdqukn3oezhguyb5co7_ZO_h5heVp9v41hXDwDimfROorE4ALy6oajlH5=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgFpv0ODwY7vfiW_3Mk1X5SrNo5Kay6Q8ldTXd7am86AMn_C9gvvTHBngJr1c08Yi4as0crnabLoAiUzSEkSPO2_61eHPG2T_mrAjMo6H1bUnnmsENh4ropr4r2vPgMrg0bdqukn3oezhguyb5co7_ZO_h5heVp9v41hXDwDimfROorE4ALy6oajlH5=w200-h150" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before - struggling grass</td></tr></tbody></table>In the narrow woodland along the back the grass was thin, hard to maintain and also required lots of trimming around the trees.<p></p><p>We added in native understory plantings like columbine, woodland phlox and ferns, as well as some raspberries and blackberries. A wood chip nature path provides access and recreation.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgYVibcTstLAbgdACtsQ-tRuMFBM-wafIhN-1Us8QE1xptWsWaj0Rreu3gzm5GADTQDmQ848wgaKrJreMaw6hGdvsZuP6DmCNOUY_Gyx6GDmWSvdNlH488T0vipCSlZkwqPu63evIfnByoo3jwhDQOH8z4LXA0R1DEsuwJJ34W7f_liTzAM682y5XlK=s4096" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgYVibcTstLAbgdACtsQ-tRuMFBM-wafIhN-1Us8QE1xptWsWaj0Rreu3gzm5GADTQDmQ848wgaKrJreMaw6hGdvsZuP6DmCNOUY_Gyx6GDmWSvdNlH488T0vipCSlZkwqPu63evIfnByoo3jwhDQOH8z4LXA0R1DEsuwJJ34W7f_liTzAM682y5XlK=w400-h300" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From the orchard into "the woods" on the mulch path</td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>I am excited to share more projects, including permaculture inspired yards from this season, in upcoming posts!</p><p>For now, I'll leave you an image from a past presentation with Bill Mollison's definition of Permaculture. Bill Mollison is the co-founder, along with David Holmgren, of the Permaculture movement.<br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4ddRqiUud_rSa7swDc6mjKwGOQ50Wcy-n4ZRnPTbxcx32D8MAs_jDeesEZgPcFcLyDCaUI8dDuOBk_m7nprQd9kxqQHSPIP2CGL-bkCWucraztfgWCweQzAntvSGwXHa56E1VXoEspfVBywODuEX2IB4zI-c2Gh5HsASHqZnycF1k10glMwzSusb/s627/PC_Definition.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="627" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu4ddRqiUud_rSa7swDc6mjKwGOQ50Wcy-n4ZRnPTbxcx32D8MAs_jDeesEZgPcFcLyDCaUI8dDuOBk_m7nprQd9kxqQHSPIP2CGL-bkCWucraztfgWCweQzAntvSGwXHa56E1VXoEspfVBywODuEX2IB4zI-c2Gh5HsASHqZnycF1k10glMwzSusb/w400-h300/PC_Definition.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-32922755094039331842022-09-09T19:26:00.001-05:002022-09-09T19:26:37.932-05:00Dappled Shade Refuge<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2n0L3uNCCthgAbSpo5wBdQQGK7qsa3nt-3lh8r5QMKRBKJlEoSUwy2lOkaoLG3EuIqXAMuEy5-dlWaeKNer_Kbyb0OUjhHeGaRN6jDgDind5kYd3fU42MBkCnBsfgsaZoyRCFHf5XI8AswC-oRN7mlfWvdlXkESOswrDSYaDEGMiF9PUAEE1LWBU/s4096/IMG_20220721_121601995~2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK2n0L3uNCCthgAbSpo5wBdQQGK7qsa3nt-3lh8r5QMKRBKJlEoSUwy2lOkaoLG3EuIqXAMuEy5-dlWaeKNer_Kbyb0OUjhHeGaRN6jDgDind5kYd3fU42MBkCnBsfgsaZoyRCFHf5XI8AswC-oRN7mlfWvdlXkESOswrDSYaDEGMiF9PUAEE1LWBU/w400-h300/IMG_20220721_121601995~2.jpg" width="440" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A whole new look</td></tr></tbody></table><p>These Urbandale homeowners really wanted their backyard to be a relaxing, usable space that felt natural and serene. With a rambunctious young dog, and a large Ash tree shading most of the yard, grass was really a struggle to grow here, and they were beyond frustrated with the mud.</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0tOb2R5kMDqvFoRa7JrwZgHFnbG2QmwALkxt_Ws4jNmZME0iF_NmKFELdZ7U4eOb5Z0bBv9FomeJuqIyrvTOjPfYSbhQZaiuyG-HEVE5JFjIEBfT7bKft3UvfCpFHxLAqxCTcSYq-8ax_uDSLOEP6ZEt_EAvtt_xgLB_BHI4oyG-xB1xo9wD4Hij/s4096/IMG_20190327_144334632_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn0tOb2R5kMDqvFoRa7JrwZgHFnbG2QmwALkxt_Ws4jNmZME0iF_NmKFELdZ7U4eOb5Z0bBv9FomeJuqIyrvTOjPfYSbhQZaiuyG-HEVE5JFjIEBfT7bKft3UvfCpFHxLAqxCTcSYq-8ax_uDSLOEP6ZEt_EAvtt_xgLB_BHI4oyG-xB1xo9wD4Hij/s320/IMG_20190327_144334632_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before pics</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>The fence was also really in disrepair and with more dogs next door, they needed something better for a safety barrier and peace of mind. You can also see the downspout pipe temporarily helping with the mud and drainage issues. Several neighboring yards had rainwater runoff directed along the rear property line as well.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3o2IxIzjmKQQOgEryddNBcopG2G_AsByww5YP-Cic06MyeZr08us9Phe93uPb0o9_7jJhM9wfYfelsUIzJacCGo9f68x_VRCBEyr3C5YYOlsg0x0EvIwdoomSjXUgYUATsRJax46nKijyqFH6UhXzTIEl8I9NhyzjWOHJPz6g3X2VWNqTwkYeLJ0/s4096/IMG_20190327_144453574.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-3o2IxIzjmKQQOgEryddNBcopG2G_AsByww5YP-Cic06MyeZr08us9Phe93uPb0o9_7jJhM9wfYfelsUIzJacCGo9f68x_VRCBEyr3C5YYOlsg0x0EvIwdoomSjXUgYUATsRJax46nKijyqFH6UhXzTIEl8I9NhyzjWOHJPz6g3X2VWNqTwkYeLJ0/s320/IMG_20190327_144453574.jpg" width="216" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiot6rmpbBwW5r1SeeBvMgcZnaN1E9LNZ6O07iZlGd-gnZvipfbm5L17SOlJ9MpK0S_XHDUr6935PuZJKuIqsejtoYb3xjHIHn64YspFVWIqdv4W9HmIhWF1qlraWQJN9vKpuk4j_BRQx8bX1hi2EmXNYWwpo9-1z5XNTdW8SSuXPBzh38YSWV2-d2_/s4096/IMG_20190327_144526852_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiot6rmpbBwW5r1SeeBvMgcZnaN1E9LNZ6O07iZlGd-gnZvipfbm5L17SOlJ9MpK0S_XHDUr6935PuZJKuIqsejtoYb3xjHIHn64YspFVWIqdv4W9HmIhWF1qlraWQJN9vKpuk4j_BRQx8bX1hi2EmXNYWwpo9-1z5XNTdW8SSuXPBzh38YSWV2-d2_/s320/IMG_20190327_144526852_HDR.jpg" width="216" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Our solution was to use a dry stream bed to direct water through the low spot, keeping the water in a designated place. Functional, yet decorative, stone and boulders armored the channel. Native plants were used along the stream and in the terminal rain garden to mimic the natural appearance of an intermittent stream and vernal pond. <div><br /></div><div>Although shaded, this area does get some sun, so our palette was limited but not terribly so. Turtlehead, purple coneflower, blazingstar and sedges were included. The rain garden will hold and sink most rains, keeping stormwater runoff from other yards and the sewer system or local streams.<div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvA49AgbsrRVR4OW-urmEZqqHRMMw43jtth3PCAc2f-2-yxEaVJrD45RhpsW8d-phN2O6Uw-pY8VWc-n48DfD4MkIISGMxhj2SG-9HEpgFCvUCuIiT0VmsgvLG7jWodZciDmRNOez9MoIbvuuiYpHcqXWQCEzInrMdDVWzGSEInFv3LN3PY_7t4xl/s4096/IMG_20220719_150335781_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvA49AgbsrRVR4OW-urmEZqqHRMMw43jtth3PCAc2f-2-yxEaVJrD45RhpsW8d-phN2O6Uw-pY8VWc-n48DfD4MkIISGMxhj2SG-9HEpgFCvUCuIiT0VmsgvLG7jWodZciDmRNOez9MoIbvuuiYpHcqXWQCEzInrMdDVWzGSEInFv3LN3PY_7t4xl/w400-h300/IMG_20220719_150335781_HDR.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plants waiting to go in</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div>You can see the new cedar privacy fence going in at this stage too. It matches the one on the other side that we put in several years ago. Cedar is naturally decay resistant and smells great!</div><div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWb0usA7kl2fhHLJMZyHbocswajgCBsD6DGW16oixxyi-wtiGzxTIaPQb-mn_t8ywvsF8W4FELnfgNzMjJ6KjOLcnz7iicWbJb-7zsh7oqS6iG5Yu_FA9kMkzaFT34mwspZ1Lqkbx4oCNWAfoxPrUKyAxN6RzquSc31jmmIKv08XjswWjkADIsYUqx/s4096/IMG_20220720_165341751.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4096" data-original-width="3072" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWb0usA7kl2fhHLJMZyHbocswajgCBsD6DGW16oixxyi-wtiGzxTIaPQb-mn_t8ywvsF8W4FELnfgNzMjJ6KjOLcnz7iicWbJb-7zsh7oqS6iG5Yu_FA9kMkzaFT34mwspZ1Lqkbx4oCNWAfoxPrUKyAxN6RzquSc31jmmIKv08XjswWjkADIsYUqx/w300-h400/IMG_20220720_165341751.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plantings allow the stream to meander, yet keep the turf edge <br />straight for ease of care</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><br /></div><div>Finally, the remaining yard was sodded with fescue for quick coverage with a more shade tolerant turfgrass. We also over seeded with an additional fescue/bluegrass seed blend for resiliency. <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2019/08/a-more-natural-lawn.html"><span style="color: #2b00fe;">Overseeding each Fall</span></a> with a blend of fescues, some perennial ryegrass, and one that also includes new shade tolerant bluegrass varieties, like <i>Sabre III™</i>, will help maintain this lawn long term.</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJt99HSgbaM_Bqa8VCrGgi-sLZowDLKgsVss1470t4SfENHroFFq2agniyTDQXRQo78bkIluYEpt7wSopuQ5F5W-jMNITvXf_Y8QnrjghyeHPdVtKqyKOW5D1j41eUIPW_jpGOPQWG7Idv0i4ZKGzKv43a40T__anpVBi48uN0PKhKH2cqHg7Q8aVi/s4096/IMG_20220721_104629169.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJt99HSgbaM_Bqa8VCrGgi-sLZowDLKgsVss1470t4SfENHroFFq2agniyTDQXRQo78bkIluYEpt7wSopuQ5F5W-jMNITvXf_Y8QnrjghyeHPdVtKqyKOW5D1j41eUIPW_jpGOPQWG7Idv0i4ZKGzKv43a40T__anpVBi48uN0PKhKH2cqHg7Q8aVi/w400-h300/IMG_20220721_104629169.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2022/06/its-sunday.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: medium;"><i>Better lawn care? Do you know about Sunday?</i></span></b></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Native woodland plants were used in the shadier foundation plantings to tie the space together with the woodland edge theme. Plants included woodland phlox, wild ginger, columbine and ferns. Corners were softened to make mowing quick and easy.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTxdLSZKbzwOwp8kLiO4kKORv0CLDDJDPJ7nvGQf6GS0ADIle6xMyCDaz-jNrwgsKXbZ6BieyeZ-_OH6GsZyObyosBoICvArrEwTJIdcxwEpyByH6ZMzf5s7cTqke4PRd6OsYuVBTfdMVFjSX8WMtQyw5zZZ_iwHt0D4GcIC77rCnCl82wk821UYT/s4096/IMG_20220721_121454517.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmTxdLSZKbzwOwp8kLiO4kKORv0CLDDJDPJ7nvGQf6GS0ADIle6xMyCDaz-jNrwgsKXbZ6BieyeZ-_OH6GsZyObyosBoICvArrEwTJIdcxwEpyByH6ZMzf5s7cTqke4PRd6OsYuVBTfdMVFjSX8WMtQyw5zZZ_iwHt0D4GcIC77rCnCl82wk821UYT/w400-h300/IMG_20220721_121454517.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_ieqMdwOLAWXPGlBQaSvcu79OLGiOdxvJis2LD70cgAcMowE-hRN4kN7FAc3upqOyOcBfTu6aKB2bLnuGlE7urr7AZ9fkba0lPJSeprbbwnaE615jNKVa8uGpfLH_avdAx3Ra-fKvw5He6MK-yAVyudgfp0DQVrEoblVukj0scaA2qBaSQ51k8KD/s4096/IMG_20220721_121721510~2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj_ieqMdwOLAWXPGlBQaSvcu79OLGiOdxvJis2LD70cgAcMowE-hRN4kN7FAc3upqOyOcBfTu6aKB2bLnuGlE7urr7AZ9fkba0lPJSeprbbwnaE615jNKVa8uGpfLH_avdAx3Ra-fKvw5He6MK-yAVyudgfp0DQVrEoblVukj0scaA2qBaSQ51k8KD/w400-h300/IMG_20220721_121721510~2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQt-6zSbu8k1w61MBolQFbBV52E2yDeWlhuKyu48LG-D_1ZCUBW4wwej_xDHbaWrRJof0_I1kUw6DGo-y9xdlNMqkLblNWPgDGq79f8IW9CnIlhXEQCkBr1MHA3P0k0UpxcM_ZLqrg2kZtOlm7W9ToAnrjXDMl7DXfxaUq4AesLDJdolRZOE2AABhO/s4096/IMG_20220721_121610489~2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQt-6zSbu8k1w61MBolQFbBV52E2yDeWlhuKyu48LG-D_1ZCUBW4wwej_xDHbaWrRJof0_I1kUw6DGo-y9xdlNMqkLblNWPgDGq79f8IW9CnIlhXEQCkBr1MHA3P0k0UpxcM_ZLqrg2kZtOlm7W9ToAnrjXDMl7DXfxaUq4AesLDJdolRZOE2AABhO/w400-h300/IMG_20220721_121610489~2.jpg" width="440" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stream close-up with echinacea color popping </td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2020/03/raincampaign-is-live.html" target="_blank">Interested in more information about Rain Gardens or other Stormwater Best Management Practices and even Cost Sharing Opportunities? </a></b></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: medium;"><b><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2020/03/raincampaign-is-live.html" target="_blank">Check out the Rain Campaign!</a></b></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="color: #2b00fe; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3yBbnyoCI9MnLJvRoYfqLqIzjjaP_or-TI2cQEBYAPSGSh9r6b1ifvQnSX7BU9hnDxv34PhcK7wOmTK0-nTnshWhHXmoU4_wsGKZHUPoAx6_mXg7gLQXbt-oUV2CKEy8ZxK5CE7JtEZDBKIgPxvGkK2mK_RulWt-MkhAKLuQP3lkQUGs9QSuPEB7w/s4096/IMG_20220721_121540263.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3yBbnyoCI9MnLJvRoYfqLqIzjjaP_or-TI2cQEBYAPSGSh9r6b1ifvQnSX7BU9hnDxv34PhcK7wOmTK0-nTnshWhHXmoU4_wsGKZHUPoAx6_mXg7gLQXbt-oUV2CKEy8ZxK5CE7JtEZDBKIgPxvGkK2mK_RulWt-MkhAKLuQP3lkQUGs9QSuPEB7w/w320-h240/IMG_20220721_121540263.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another angle<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnrLIUjW2tEm1H-WSDswmIdr6vSP-h4QWQ76cwQUcXEmSZF55tig_3RBJf12U2KZOLqkI4XLVTmEC9QtYDOL2e4Lv2vRmUHBp5gecRWWkH0same7naP8oVckl7sIxoOeVh_EaIj5ub9aY2YeOaNRepW8oD5gEdqvWyck-p6jEpcnjgItxiu970mR7/s4096/IMG_20220721_121654528~2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGnrLIUjW2tEm1H-WSDswmIdr6vSP-h4QWQ76cwQUcXEmSZF55tig_3RBJf12U2KZOLqkI4XLVTmEC9QtYDOL2e4Lv2vRmUHBp5gecRWWkH0same7naP8oVckl7sIxoOeVh_EaIj5ub9aY2YeOaNRepW8oD5gEdqvWyck-p6jEpcnjgItxiu970mR7/w400-h300/IMG_20220721_121654528~2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rain Garden in the corner, dappled shade<br /></td></tr></tbody></table></div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-384248900759559972022-06-04T23:30:00.003-05:002024-02-29T11:46:21.004-06:00It's Sunday!<p>I've long been an advocate for <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2019/06/a-regenerative-future-podcast.html" target="_blank">healthier people</a>, <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2019/07/urban-steward-of-year.html" target="_blank">cleaner water</a> and protecting <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2017/10/building-soil-for-health-climate-profit.html" target="_blank">our soil</a>!</p><p>That's why I'm super excited to partner with and share <i>Sunday</i>, a newer lawn care company that helps empower everyone to grow better, healthier, greener spaces today, and for generations to come. </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxqovKl08LecHeG5Xy2hIEmooTeqIZJieba1M1vVe2E0d338U4arBpoYGY6czZUKl2VQn2GRtgiX2gxB6KSAiXbs29dMG3lZMD1X19lwNfimrzBG726RJ8ZTtUz0ICjYXNrD-J7mze0hXT3UUTTg_r3ZSqUQ0yNOK8DxcgUUej9TwRELR0QbWzxjOq/s1800/logo_reversed_photo.jpeg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1800" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxqovKl08LecHeG5Xy2hIEmooTeqIZJieba1M1vVe2E0d338U4arBpoYGY6czZUKl2VQn2GRtgiX2gxB6KSAiXbs29dMG3lZMD1X19lwNfimrzBG726RJ8ZTtUz0ICjYXNrD-J7mze0hXT3UUTTg_r3ZSqUQ0yNOK8DxcgUUej9TwRELR0QbWzxjOq/w400-h200/logo_reversed_photo.jpeg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Sunday </i>is dedicated to changing the world one yard at a time!</td></tr></tbody></table><div><br /></div><div>Each <i>Sunday </i>product is created to support the entire lawn ecosystem - by working with nature, not against it, and using leading-edge science to get back to how nature is supposed to work.</div><div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/DJ-gFpAer24" width="400" youtube-src-id="DJ-gFpAer24"></iframe></div><p><i>Sunday </i>lawn care products use better, <a href="https://getsunday.com/our-ingredients" target="_blank">simpler ingredients</a> (with names you can pronounce) to boost active grass growth and cultivate rich, living soil for a healthy, more self sustaining lawn.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8TY_p6ONRfyDs0GAABGZFYzpPV2VhX_bsJSokKqEQuruvtP_931mi_37KD4nPQiCf0PXA1w26HE5yIfaC9Wx0zuecINustyo59zm2RPGFpegrGo3eqpLDk2emI-CEFTu5oHr9NBJPYHhSpuIXGvEuD2M6AsIJMysD8GCE2nyqKQfM-B4o2sgIl3sM/s1600/_A7R1398.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8TY_p6ONRfyDs0GAABGZFYzpPV2VhX_bsJSokKqEQuruvtP_931mi_37KD4nPQiCf0PXA1w26HE5yIfaC9Wx0zuecINustyo59zm2RPGFpegrGo3eqpLDk2emI-CEFTu5oHr9NBJPYHhSpuIXGvEuD2M6AsIJMysD8GCE2nyqKQfM-B4o2sgIl3sM/w400-h266/_A7R1398.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><i>Sunday </i>also has effective and easy to use products for weed and pest control that use carefully selected ingredients with your family in mind.</div><div><br /><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Go to <a href="http://getsunday.com">getsunday.com</a> now, use code</span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">ADESIGN20</span></b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">and you'll get 20% off your cart!</span></p><p><br /></p></div></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-74785896203783188122022-05-01T21:40:00.000-05:002023-01-04T14:15:13.636-06:00Slope fix, No retaining wall<div class="separator">This project started with a call from the homeowner who had a dangerous slope to mow with potential for erosion issues. Although the last few years were very busy, we were able to fit this mid-summer project in when we happened to be working nearby.</div><p>The homeowner wanted something to hold the bank stable, without a retaining wall and pollinator friendly if possible. But not something too <i>wild </i>looking...</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpfipeNwgCU4ZXTO5B7VoBZU2i6GjWOroLuzO9vr_8CHoZjxbO_ADyM3soZtheN26M1E1xRhfCL2kWTLYei-mTG7xmHNlCPbpq5Oi9OYguQ-ZQC8BQ9IL8FNvoG8dlOacjqhGYSMlqhCnJM4YngtA-MeUB_V9-1D8EPuvVPprv6J6Lywnk9PBLZOk/s4096/after%20prairie.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4096" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWpfipeNwgCU4ZXTO5B7VoBZU2i6GjWOroLuzO9vr_8CHoZjxbO_ADyM3soZtheN26M1E1xRhfCL2kWTLYei-mTG7xmHNlCPbpq5Oi9OYguQ-ZQC8BQ9IL8FNvoG8dlOacjqhGYSMlqhCnJM4YngtA-MeUB_V9-1D8EPuvVPprv6J6Lywnk9PBLZOk/w400-h300/after%20prairie.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Little Bluestem to the rescue! This hardy native grass has a nice blue-green color in summer and will spread to hold the bank in place. It grows to about three feet tall with a fibrous root system. A selection of native wildflowers, lower diversity for a 'tidy' appearance, will give the bees and butterflies something to enjoy as well.</p><p>For this one, we stripped the existing sod, evened out the grade across the slope, added in prairie grasses & wildflowers, mulched and also tried a new trick (<a href="https://amzn.to/3jEJLYh" target="_blank">similar to these products at Amazon <i>affiliate link</i></a>) to hold the mulch in place until the plants fill in. </p><p>This new little patch of 'prairie' with Little Bluestem's fall colors of copper to crimson, and wildflower blooms will give this space year long interest to the homeowners and passing traffic on this somewhat busy intersection (<i>which made for an interesting installation</i>).</p><div style="text-align: center;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-v9qyeUKPVxjXGqfGZQxA1iAicfdSKM3CENDsv-CspfbMwV_Opr8T8yA7XqculzqsKjBex6_hnstKXtB9C5lRKKxfEwLvLSQ9S2BLmTuoVDqCAU2fT_ibws8ZqmF_PCD3VzO26UBEtIZsux9NW0ZqM2wP6hawIXa_-8KRBUbUDgQvy4PztNnLEtru/s817/before%20slope.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="418" data-original-width="817" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-v9qyeUKPVxjXGqfGZQxA1iAicfdSKM3CENDsv-CspfbMwV_Opr8T8yA7XqculzqsKjBex6_hnstKXtB9C5lRKKxfEwLvLSQ9S2BLmTuoVDqCAU2fT_ibws8ZqmF_PCD3VzO26UBEtIZsux9NW0ZqM2wP6hawIXa_-8KRBUbUDgQvy4PztNnLEtru/s320/before%20slope.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before - not too bad on this end, but...</td></tr></tbody></table><br /></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6pUt1YnBz5cDMJelZYSDwlkV5iS5ESGqmLhS1hqGSVJoAi6WTEXudhPgdJGCXmYYqkIqNI6hs3mTjb0lK0sb0cKQNNueKRehVfrgi8eA4eg0VnIBGTZSk0jevtX0Y5JEDNs8cjjJJmSqHLj_2rv8iyOmEVlrh2HF3AvyuSdkODLaCYNzG1BC9khty/s644/Before%20StreetCapture.JPG" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="461" data-original-width="644" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6pUt1YnBz5cDMJelZYSDwlkV5iS5ESGqmLhS1hqGSVJoAi6WTEXudhPgdJGCXmYYqkIqNI6hs3mTjb0lK0sb0cKQNNueKRehVfrgi8eA4eg0VnIBGTZSk0jevtX0Y5JEDNs8cjjJJmSqHLj_2rv8iyOmEVlrh2HF3AvyuSdkODLaCYNzG1BC9khty/s320/Before%20StreetCapture.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I wouldn't want to mow that either!</td></tr></tbody></table><p><br /></p><br />Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8622589753083186338.post-40314831198788428032022-04-25T07:00:00.002-05:002022-04-26T07:52:04.711-05:00Save Money, Secure Food, Start a Garden<p>This is a great year to start that garden you've always thought about!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkOJHq2lowd0iL-CmARAWAsvLnfJSLV4Jlmh-NwCj_4nNLzcmC0ws3ukx7A4QeDTTIvcWR-o-uVIe7Sblpb9luuI40io2fJhi9FadM0wYtqChs4F1iy-4UqYbtyC9pYBgVCZnbSIdWDcprcjrTN_tHQtwwQ5k57NE__mDsB-JNr_FjEd3ssDM_Lb0/s2048/Security%20Garden.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1361" data-original-width="2048" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvkOJHq2lowd0iL-CmARAWAsvLnfJSLV4Jlmh-NwCj_4nNLzcmC0ws3ukx7A4QeDTTIvcWR-o-uVIe7Sblpb9luuI40io2fJhi9FadM0wYtqChs4F1iy-4UqYbtyC9pYBgVCZnbSIdWDcprcjrTN_tHQtwwQ5k57NE__mDsB-JNr_FjEd3ssDM_Lb0/w400-h266/Security%20Garden.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bill Mollison, co-founder of Permaculture</td></tr></tbody></table><p>With <a href="https://news.yahoo.com/elon-musk-believes-us-government-094756015.html" target="_blank">rising inflation</a>, due to a multitude of issues - supply chain problems, lost productivity during the pandemic catching up, and efforts to stimulate a lagging economy - growing a garden can help reduce food costs.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><script src="https://video.foxbusiness.com/v/embed.js?id=6304795224001&w=466&h=263" type="text/javascript"></script><noscript>Watch the latest video at <a href="https://www.foxbusiness.com">foxbusiness.com</a></noscript><br /></p>
<p>Sure, brand new stylish <a href="http://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/p/traditional-gardens-either-raised-or-in.html" target="_blank">cedar raised beds</a> will cost a lot to get started, especially with current lumber prices. Wood scraps can also be found if you know where to look, or build one out of used pallets. Look for the "HT" stamp which means Heat-Treated for durability instead of chemically treated. The gardens built with these may not last as long, but they will get you started and can be replaced easily after a few seasons.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoz-T70zTvlhs5cgZaWHrx10BoXhgQv52RCOHDAYAG7FJ7ibJZD9XbhGdPUCvpY-6EYdpQeyONHV4l6huypPFKl0y9BSF-5uztd7eiNLJCbuiIKVWX9q_JRVQeYAk6gfZLVVL4xRsg-dSZ1PQcbvYjUS3DjcPnkQwzdMpj7tIO7k6EE-Kle7XK7yx7/s2048/IMG_20180402_190129434.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1153" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoz-T70zTvlhs5cgZaWHrx10BoXhgQv52RCOHDAYAG7FJ7ibJZD9XbhGdPUCvpY-6EYdpQeyONHV4l6huypPFKl0y9BSF-5uztd7eiNLJCbuiIKVWX9q_JRVQeYAk6gfZLVVL4xRsg-dSZ1PQcbvYjUS3DjcPnkQwzdMpj7tIO7k6EE-Kle7XK7yx7/w400-h225/IMG_20180402_190129434.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizW5CEjHGpO4w4zzStkfQiStj8el5Us8BZS14ts_i4VqH6zPeakh74OmGpojmKDxp4-v99AxMTaE7YltzlTurvVafJv01zy-cLPCy79sON7lvWn2xNfaxgcwzXygeJTmHu3ZIPYusWfXVnnTgW4Ee0qx6dVnORzDN5zYLJfSEP4p0FkdNlgxEVwCn-/s2048/IMG_20160514_125844346.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1153" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizW5CEjHGpO4w4zzStkfQiStj8el5Us8BZS14ts_i4VqH6zPeakh74OmGpojmKDxp4-v99AxMTaE7YltzlTurvVafJv01zy-cLPCy79sON7lvWn2xNfaxgcwzXygeJTmHu3ZIPYusWfXVnnTgW4Ee0qx6dVnORzDN5zYLJfSEP4p0FkdNlgxEVwCn-/w400-h225/IMG_20160514_125844346.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>But also skipping that step and adding new in ground garden, or adding soil on <a href="http://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2016/08/why-not-landscape-fabric.html" target="_blank">top of cardboard</a> can be a great lower cost option.<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ekpO_2VPLaU/V7narW2g4RI/AAAAAAAACFI/T2khzSHR5nQZhhWiV3RGulkoSNGl0G0dgCLcB/s1436/LasagnaBed.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="1436" height="130" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ekpO_2VPLaU/V7narW2g4RI/AAAAAAAACFI/T2khzSHR5nQZhhWiV3RGulkoSNGl0G0dgCLcB/w400-h130/LasagnaBed.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3aGP-HFgMX0gbVPi2hDWYQ1HRnCghyNJCsiOQ69dT7H7olzCgWJygjXs2oXGZXSXTHRpCB5PUx7X-NMiz3OisUX_MJVO15QL9T1gHdkWFDWhHnVpaNIpkFmPhdafu7xwtm7iaDb-xeS04eXgIuqFotBw3QnzWUOQQHEb1kfPqQL5b1DIENHOgJY0/s854/cropped.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="854" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX3aGP-HFgMX0gbVPi2hDWYQ1HRnCghyNJCsiOQ69dT7H7olzCgWJygjXs2oXGZXSXTHRpCB5PUx7X-NMiz3OisUX_MJVO15QL9T1gHdkWFDWhHnVpaNIpkFmPhdafu7xwtm7iaDb-xeS04eXgIuqFotBw3QnzWUOQQHEb1kfPqQL5b1DIENHOgJY0/s320/cropped.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lasagna Beds in Beaverdale</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEias3V0DnJ8cdbXr4Mh783Kl_hd1S4jkCX8VJhhlSF6zmtLA4uni0gsB6Z2FYd4J1ccnQPstQfxB2v7SIqOpSfpcaQ1Nd7Wxnb0u4GNhyyUj19Y99LoOvp-PiRVnjlRCtWtg2l2SxDc26NgS8q6R8haDxiKAPletZR1Xabjhlu9l_TVKoUMxZ5i6iSf/s2048/IMG_20190520_123139723_HDR.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEias3V0DnJ8cdbXr4Mh783Kl_hd1S4jkCX8VJhhlSF6zmtLA4uni0gsB6Z2FYd4J1ccnQPstQfxB2v7SIqOpSfpcaQ1Nd7Wxnb0u4GNhyyUj19Y99LoOvp-PiRVnjlRCtWtg2l2SxDc26NgS8q6R8haDxiKAPletZR1Xabjhlu9l_TVKoUMxZ5i6iSf/s320/IMG_20190520_123139723_HDR.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div>Upcycled garage doors used in raised beds</div><div>at the <a href="https://dmacc.edu/urban/sustainable/Pages/Food-Forest.aspx" target="_blank">DMACC Urban Food Forest</a></div></td></tr></tbody></table><p>Increasingly <a href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/food-shortages/" target="_blank">bare shelves</a>, with a seemingly random rotation of available products, eggs and chicken (even before the <a href="https://www.npr.org/2022/04/06/1091061758/bird-flu-outbreak" target="_blank">bird flu</a>) to fresh fruit and vegetables, are causing some to think of new/old ways to get through temporary, but increasingly longer, grocery shortages. This can definitely can be alleviated with some homegrown produce, <a href="https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=359824719523537&id=100064880342908" target="_blank">neighborhood veggie swaps</a> and farmers market items.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8NXfj_MeI_QC0vh6gxIKHiUp8VLnYyfoSPRWEvjD09W4YypXXilkwcST_-IwNkaCULIc3IbRktBmvjJsEebq2cwCHztVeUrQhM9hhVjRtBnJN4wLt6Nx6-0TQiTQU1vHReX2aotNVCyeYP9U0s3GnkKJncRBM5xnmvb_lXeQ1YnzryLjAbqUp0BZ/s2048/Tomato.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1153" data-original-width="2048" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8NXfj_MeI_QC0vh6gxIKHiUp8VLnYyfoSPRWEvjD09W4YypXXilkwcST_-IwNkaCULIc3IbRktBmvjJsEebq2cwCHztVeUrQhM9hhVjRtBnJN4wLt6Nx6-0TQiTQU1vHReX2aotNVCyeYP9U0s3GnkKJncRBM5xnmvb_lXeQ1YnzryLjAbqUp0BZ/w400-h225/Tomato.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p>Also, with a stressed food supply, every calorie you grow and consume, is one less calorie this system has to provide. The more people do this, the more pressure it takes off the food system and supply chains - our friends the farmers, truck drivers and retail workers. Even if you live in an apartment a few herbs or tomatoes growing on a sunny deck or patio makes a difference.</p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: 700;">A few dollars in seeds can yield many, many times that in food savings!</span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPC94DAeIJo7CHRF4W64BqtiQT-tPvQdJfr85b8xo7ScEXjduDQZxqWUvxjZicmO2qHLrL_L-TirGqrpeRoDaV79q79fPz1qKVu3X-hakUBPOJ75XzEedYFaxlpibu_oWMsF3p05oktXyXEddYVknqsviF2c9H7ZqXmHaDWLVW5KmsBawzLKl74edJ/s2048/IMG_20160310_201523748_HDR_crop.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1769" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPC94DAeIJo7CHRF4W64BqtiQT-tPvQdJfr85b8xo7ScEXjduDQZxqWUvxjZicmO2qHLrL_L-TirGqrpeRoDaV79q79fPz1qKVu3X-hakUBPOJ75XzEedYFaxlpibu_oWMsF3p05oktXyXEddYVknqsviF2c9H7ZqXmHaDWLVW5KmsBawzLKl74edJ/s320/IMG_20160310_201523748_HDR_crop.jpg" width="276" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKJJccTY7bcK3srP_FfHj8haj33Cwh1eEq5aOwPX-yAmUam7AF9_jVbT6C6gNAzOe5WzCKm00bP553ekIRwBlaPSUiToATFEOPnNR5NwYVxjv_TzOYdxsXf9EllsLIT0cQCQfXysKZfJBNNnGJOy6qyshTJcBhIvDZvEUSB5yO7pUioCq5T7vqXfT/s1003/KeepHensRaiseEggs.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1003" data-original-width="722" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpKJJccTY7bcK3srP_FfHj8haj33Cwh1eEq5aOwPX-yAmUam7AF9_jVbT6C6gNAzOe5WzCKm00bP553ekIRwBlaPSUiToATFEOPnNR5NwYVxjv_TzOYdxsXf9EllsLIT0cQCQfXysKZfJBNNnGJOy6qyshTJcBhIvDZvEUSB5yO7pUioCq5T7vqXfT/s320/KeepHensRaiseEggs.png" width="230" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXUU5mRmb1h49PrTdcqL9_3mG4_5Ffx0KOn7gPcSzQ-Jv36TEdDEQ0FD1TOHB9sDbNtXchPih11LeXj5lB04K4u94hd43EhGCZVKknkeWWvmOMXfY4UPSotqjPzC55GqQPyLQSxv7QBGh4sLLD9jorY0VlNTjvGF6K3PvCr-oOWCSGSMNTG7FSkx8i/s2048/IMG_20151107_165205550.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1153" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXUU5mRmb1h49PrTdcqL9_3mG4_5Ffx0KOn7gPcSzQ-Jv36TEdDEQ0FD1TOHB9sDbNtXchPih11LeXj5lB04K4u94hd43EhGCZVKknkeWWvmOMXfY4UPSotqjPzC55GqQPyLQSxv7QBGh4sLLD9jorY0VlNTjvGF6K3PvCr-oOWCSGSMNTG7FSkx8i/s320/IMG_20151107_165205550.jpg" width="180" /></a></div><p>You can take pride in what you've helped provide, get the <a href="https://qz.com/993258/dirt-has-a-microbiome-and-it-may-double-as-an-antidepressant/" target="_blank">health benefits of soil</a> & <a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2016/10/the-power-of-healing-gardens.html">being outside</a> with dirt on your hands, and you may even pick up a <a href="https://www.thenationshealth.org/content/47/5/17" target="_blank">new hobby</a>!</p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvKtMXyeWVahR0RF4TdffASVwDQjKKre6sJxQmO2EaV3VRU1oXPPtYUEtS3LiJsN5ab4gwm5pkWDRqMtZYGlZuNYonwCf78z4ghCyNmnhp7WcSbEFIcQXYER7VFiLk_9tMPQHlaA0M1EYmz2699C3AMkAySbWOD8lhO_oEF8xYHDc4lI6DAtAKKLj/s2048/IMG_20161008_173019077c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1147" data-original-width="2048" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvKtMXyeWVahR0RF4TdffASVwDQjKKre6sJxQmO2EaV3VRU1oXPPtYUEtS3LiJsN5ab4gwm5pkWDRqMtZYGlZuNYonwCf78z4ghCyNmnhp7WcSbEFIcQXYER7VFiLk_9tMPQHlaA0M1EYmz2699C3AMkAySbWOD8lhO_oEF8xYHDc4lI6DAtAKKLj/w400-h224/IMG_20161008_173019077c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://abundantdesigniowa.blogspot.com/2016/10/raised-beds-of-steel-with-hugelkultur.html">Raised beds in Windsor Heights</a></td></tr></tbody></table><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dyax-L4WsAEZg1j.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Dyax-L4WsAEZg1j.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://twitter.com/geofflawton_/status/1091755644166787077" target="_blank">Geoff Lawton Online</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p><br /></p></div>Abundant Design, LLChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04243654199483899148noreply@blogger.com0