tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9040174805038972562024-02-06T18:44:08.179-08:00GardenDesigns+morePam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.comBlogger140125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-57639333417115890812013-04-13T15:37:00.001-07:002013-05-19T17:05:38.620-07:00The Sky is falling …<p> </p> <p>Or so it seems with White Wisteria in full bloom!</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinimg.com/550x/61/c4/89/61c489d4910542a99101b11665ea5a1c.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>At long last, Spring is here.</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-33517746713575822852013-04-01T06:10:00.001-07:002013-04-01T06:11:16.084-07:00Really?<p> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-is0.pinimg.com/550x/ef/c7/5e/efc75eedd8585fdd8ad5d6ef6296cba2.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://media-cache-is0.pinimg.com/550x/ef/c7/5e/efc75eedd8585fdd8ad5d6ef6296cba2.jpg">Source</a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center">Need I say more?  Happy April Fools Day!</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-33287498524893466352013-03-29T09:53:00.001-07:002013-05-19T17:11:22.872-07:002013 Perennial Plant of the Year<p> </p> <p align="left"><strong>Polygonatum odoratum ‘Variegatum’</strong> or Variegated Solomon’s Seal has been named the 2013 Perennial Plant of the year by the Perennial Plant Association. </p> <p align="center"><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinimg.com/550x/bd/08/0d/bd080d6df095c64f1b4ee5b71b72c773.jpg" width="253" height="374" /></p> <p><strong><em></em></strong></p> <p>This shade-loving ground cover was picked for it’s hardiness in a wide planting zone range (Zones 4 to 8) .  Growing 18 to 24-inches tall and wide, the plant spreads by underground rhizomes to form “colonies” or mass plantings.  Solomon’s Seal is an excellent choice for the shady to partly sunny woodland garden as its variegated foliage can be used to lighten up a dark or shady spot in the garden.  The plant is known better for its arching evergreen leaves that are lush and variegated than for its hanging white flowers that bloom in Spring.  </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ak1.pinimg.com/550x/29/ae/a2/29aea2393dfd9e75314f87d16583f991.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><font size="2"><em>Spanish Bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica) is an excellent companion plant for Variegated Solomon’s Seal!  And you all know that I am a HUGE fan of planting bulbs in with groundcovers.  I do it all the time in my practice - it gives more seasonal interest to a mass of groundcover.</em></font></p> <p align="center"><font size="2"></font></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p>You’ll want to plant Solomon’s Seal in a shady spot that is moist but well-drained.  Variegated Solomon’s Seal is an excellent low-growing ground cover that will colonize but not spread all over the garden.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-is0.pinimg.com/550x/36/14/47/3614470d6bc3aba8ecc177c99bd29168.jpg" width="429" height="636" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Each year, Perennial Plant Award <a href="http://web.extension.illinois.edu/cfiv/homeowners/130128.html#">winners</a> are chosen by the members of the Perennial Plant Association for the plant's beauty, durability, suitability to a wide range of climate types, low maintenance, multiple seasonal interest, and easy growing nature.</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-77284368226065828572013-03-23T11:44:00.001-07:002013-05-19T17:15:34.980-07:00Weekly Garden Fix<p> </p> <p>It’s cold and rainy in South eastern North Carolina today.  So let’s pretend we are here …</p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinimg.com/550x/a7/94/b4/a794b4fa3d5e84152f984e4e05fa9f03.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.paolalenti.it/en/"><em>Source</em></a></p> <p> </p> <p>I love the modern lounge chairs in the foreground and the way they contrast with the cottage style brick architecture.  The formal paths in the midground combine with the regular cadence set by the round forms of the large shrubs direct your eye to the gate by the large tree.  The flat surfaces of the deck, the chairs, the pool and lawn are very peaceful and restful.  This is where I’d like to be on a cold, rainy day like today.  </p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-92154227441841910612013-03-16T18:42:00.001-07:002013-05-19T17:21:51.327-07:00Turn Gardening Upside Down with Sky Planters<strong></strong> <div style="text-align: left" dir="ltr" align="center" trbidi="on"> <br /><strong>Sky planters </strong>are all the rage these days.  <br /> <br /><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinimg.com/550x/c2/6f/1e/c26f1ea5530356ee29680b50a15acd7b.jpg" /> <br /> <br />These hanging pots from <a href="http://www.boskke.com/shop/">Boskke</a> have literally turned gardening upside down.  I like the idea of growing herbs in the kitchen where they can be easily accessed for cooking! <br /> <br /></div> <img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/550x/8e/e1/fa/8ee1fae6ad2d0cbf100d442758e2dd93.jpg" width="529" height="352" /> <br /> <br />The planters are made from ceramic pottery or recycled plastic and can be used indoors or outdoors.  <br /> <br /><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/550x/0e/86/c8/0e86c808893d3df4f269b98134c775e5.jpg" width="387" height="542" /> <br /> <br />Each pot contains a locking disk that holds the soil and plant roots in place.  They also have a unique reservoir system that conserves water (by up to 80%) and a personal timer that gradually hydrates the plants’ roots.  How about this one for a nice centerpiece? <br /> <br /><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-is0.pinimg.com/550x/b4/ab/73/b4ab7349421dda8d11232e14ff8bc4a3.jpg" width="490" height="780" /> <br /> <br />What will they<em> think</em> of next?  Shop for Sky planters <a href="http://www.boskke.com/shop/">Here</a>. <br /> <br /> <div style="text-align: center"><iframe height="200" marginheight="0" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6696091.1025;sz=200x200;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802463973;pid=sku6194184;usg=AFHzDLs2omwYFegXTgttmOA1C9JpmBDhqg;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.samsclub.com%252Fsams%252Fnikon-d3100-14-2mp-digital-slr-camera%252Fprod2090591.ip%253Fpid%253D_DoubleClick_Affiliates%2526ci_src%253D15781033%2526ci_sku%253Dsku6194184;pubid=617093;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fs7d2.scene7.com%2Fis%2Fimage%2Fsamsclub%2Fs7product%2F0001820825472_A.jpg;width=200;height=200" frameborder="0" width="200" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" bordercolor="#000000"></iframe> <br /></div> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-15801043408224944742013-03-05T07:30:00.000-08:002013-05-19T17:27:55.596-07:00Garden Love<p> </p> <p>A wonderful composition of right angles and rectangles. </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinimg.com/550x/e6/99/e8/e699e896a43aa23b12121535514d5825.jpg" width="419" height="556" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://remodelista.com/architects-designers/firms/arterra-landscape-architects">Arterra Landscape Architects</a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="left">Why does this work for me?  Because it is harmonious and well balanced.  Can you see the similar form, line, color and texture?   When these elements are in agreement, we have unity.  </p> <p align="left">The composition is nicely balanced.  The tall copper planter and tree balance and anchor the horizontal heaviness of the concrete planter perfectly.   I love how the copper fountain serves to bring your eye down the backdrop wall to the top of the planter and continuing down the runnel that bisects and than protrudes beyond the concrete planter.  Your eye then catches the falling water down to the pool level that is beneath the ground plane.  It is all very soothing.  Notice how all of the plants have similar color and form.  They serve to soften the hard lines of the hardscape elements and bring your eye down as well.</p> <p align="left">What a wonderful spot to hang out next to on a warm summer’s day.  The sound of the water would drown out any unpleasant sounds from the surrounding area.  Just being near the water would provide a cooling and tranquil effect.  A true garden oasis.</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-8004148735954589302013-03-03T07:27:00.002-08:002013-03-03T13:09:47.325-08:00Want a stunning groundcover? It’s a Breeze!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="color: #8000ff; font-family: Palatino Linotype; font-size: medium;"><em>Lomandra longifolia</em></span>, otherwise known as <span style="color: #ff8000; font-family: Palatino Linotype; font-size: medium;">Breeze grass</span> is quickly becoming my new favorite plant!<br />
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<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Wj4_ZtoZ3rs/S1HHkE6Od4I/AAAAAAAABmg/UITLY91pwQE/s1600-h/Lomandra_Lime_Wave%5B4%5D.jpg"><img alt="Lomandra_Lime_Wave" border="0" height="330" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_Wj4_ZtoZ3rs/S1HHkmyU-MI/AAAAAAAABmk/q5llX5SQ3L4/Lomandra_Lime_Wave_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Lomandra_Lime_Wave" width="312" /></a> <span style="font-family: Calibri;">Lomandra longifolia ‘Lime Wave’</span><br />
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This plant is tough and looks beautiful all year long due to its fine texture and evergreen habit. It blooms small flowers in Spring.<br />
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This little beauty hails from down under, <span style="color: #0080ff; font-family: Palatino Linotype; font-size: medium;">Australia</span>, and is an extremely versatile plant, growing in both sandy and wet soil conditions! Once established, it tolerates drought beautifully! <br />
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Growing best in full sun to part shade, Breeze grass offers a great alternative to shrubs and ground covers. It has a medium growth rate and grows 2 to 3-feet tall x 2-feet wide. Breeze grass grows in US hardiness zones 7 through 11 and once established, requires very little care! Sorry yankees – this plant likes it in the <em>warmer</em> plant zones. <br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Am93jscfGK4/T7FwwV-YECI/AAAAAAAABzs/_3LMiAr0nmI/s1600-h/Lomandra_Tankika2%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Lomandra_Tankika2" border="0" height="373" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-LuFO73qZUCE/T7FwxEP5MTI/AAAAAAAABz0/T76eFBRxhXI/Lomandra_Tankika2_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Lomandra_Tankika2" width="463" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> You know a plant is tough when it can hold up in seriously hot, windy and dry conditions</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> such as a traffic island!</span><br />
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Not only will it look good en masse, but I also envision it as beautiful solitary specimans, in pots, or as excellent border plants. Deer tolerant, Breeze grass is an extremely <em><span style="color: #ff80c0; font-family: Palatino Linotype; font-size: medium;"><strong>low maintenance</strong></span></em> plant. Who could ask for anything more? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN6LcxQYqGVcZfYWUsETCoLAsa96_gl7BuN24L-FSzoEgxlcFgU8XBIqALKMamHBDxXO8mQJwVrIV-2_K42ZbvSoQQSo5hDBhIwbLhV-nYBkJ1ta4cmJ4tw02922TWYtP1d-wGapKO4_LG/s1600-h/lom_hys%5B5%5D.jpg"><img alt="lom_hys" border="0" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK229PkoTUPKn_bCzTUXNBBC2oyZxcrUHlxTv4tuahj1-E5gwtuGgcK4eq2XJGaDAp7n4PeBHNk3KJMWt_HP2lfQH5ZntDaJcyan0hbaZjr1Iuz8ntfy3HHtfmzDyXkb65sHrxFG45s3pN/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="lom_hys" width="362" /></a> </div>
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This is <em>definitely</em> a plant US Southern gardeners will be seeing a lot more of! Enjoy! </div>
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It’s my new favorite! What’s yours?</div>
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Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-69005336873549908222013-03-02T07:55:00.000-08:002013-05-19T17:38:35.456-07:00Grow Your Own Lunch<p> </p> <p>Instead of choosing this …</p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinimg.com/550x/46/e8/5d/46e85dca6e1703b3c43ee7ef029d1a33.jpg" width="346" height="303" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Why not choose this …</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://myhangingbaskets.com/images/hanging%20lettuce%20basket.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://myhangingbaskets.com/basket_of_goodies_for_the_chef.htm"><font size="2"><em>My Hanging Baskets</em></font></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="left">How terrific is this?  You see, you don’t need a lot of space to grow edibles.  Only a little imagination.</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-18118035156580998832013-02-27T17:43:00.000-08:002013-03-02T07:43:21.709-08:00Concave Space<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Now <span style="color: #9b00d3;">THIS</span> is a gardener’s garden. And what a perfect concave space to view the garden from! It is our nature to want to sit in a protected and enclosed space with our backs against a wall looking out - able to survey all that is before us. It is especially appealing when this concave space is elevated.<br />
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<a href="http://www.secretgardens.com.au/"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Secret Gardens of Sydney</em></span></a></div>
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Apart from the concave vantage point, this garden space is so harmonious and full of energy. The plantings are vertical and stretching in nature. I can just imagine the sounds of the foliage rustling in the breeze!</div>
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<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="200" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6696091.1011;sz=200x200;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802463973;pid=133227;usg=AFHzDLtIivDBfvng0LdmnLgDNwfBt6jYqQ;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.samsclub.com%252Fsams%252Fgrand-rio-outdoor-indoor-dining-set-9-pc%252F124345.ip%253Fpid%253D_DoubleClick_Affiliates%2526ci_src%253D15781033%2526ci_sku%253D133227;pubid=617093;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fs7d2.scene7.com%2Fis%2Fimage%2Fsamsclub%2Fs7product%2F0089443800114_A.jpg;width=200;height=200" vspace="0" width="200"></iframe><br /></div>
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Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-68276818394116443242013-02-24T07:45:00.001-08:002013-05-19T18:34:16.372-07:002013 Top Outdoor Living Design Trends<p> </p> <p>Increasingly, American homeowners want more enjoyment and livability from their outdoor spaces.  It is about time.</p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://cdn.houseandhome.com/sites/houseandhome.com/files/imagecache/photo/top-images/galleries/12/5-April2009-VirginiaMacdonald.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://houseandhome.com/design/built-barbecue"><font size="2"><em>Source</em></font></a></p> <p> </p> <p>According to a recent survey of its members, the <a href="http://www.asla.org/">American Society of Landscape Architects</a> (“ASLA”) has identified home owners’ top outdoor living design trends for 2013.  At the top of the list are outdoor rooms for entertaining and recreational activities.  No surprise here – we have seen this trend over the past decade.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/550x/2e/9f/fd/2e9ffdfe36ca340ae622bc400af74d8e.jpg" width="428" height="565" /></p> <p> </p> <p>Homeowners want outdoor kitchens …</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://www.secretgardens.com.au/wordpress/wp-content/gallery/willoughby-garden/willoughby9.jpg" width="569" height="381" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.secretgardens.com.au/"><em><font size="2">Secret Gardens of Sydney</font></em></a></p> <p>and entertainment areas. </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-is0.pinimg.com/550x/32/2b/12/322b129f19faec289b28986bbe557fa5.jpg" width="439" height="524" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.secretgardens.com.au/"><em><font size="2">Secret Gardens of Sydney</font></em></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p>Firepits and fireplaces have also grown in popularity among homeowners,  followed by grilling spaces and seating/dining areas. </p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ak1.pinimg.com/550x/b7/1f/6a/b71f6a10fe6939ce56c8a863e7d7df67.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/550x/b7/1f/6a/b71f6a10fe6939ce56c8a863e7d7df67.jpg"><font size="2"><em>Lauren Leonard Interiors</em></font></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://www.shadesofgreenla.com/images/stc-3big.jpg" width="514" height="385" /></p> <p align="center"> </p> <img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://www.shadesofgreenla.com/images/stc-1big.jpg" width="297" height="393" /> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1789524/list#"><em><font size="2">Source</font></em></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Homeowners still want all kinds of water features including fountains, waterfalls, ornamental pools, splash pools, swimming pools and spas.  No surprise there, either.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec1.pinterest.com/550x/86/68/ef/8668ef36c011c156bb47dbc2835f9da4.jpg" width="372" height="489" /></p> <p> </p> <p>And although patios, decking and fencing have been popular for many years, it appears they are still very much in demand by homeowners.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ak1.pinimg.com/550x/1d/0d/8f/1d0d8fb66decd128776c48dc294c9405.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.secretgardens.com.au/"><em><font size="2">Secret Gardens of Sydney</font></em></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Finally, sustainable and low-maintenance gardening is on the rise and becoming more popular every day.  </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec1.pinterest.com/550x/79/1a/e4/791ae4e9440a7b4c8ed7ed2d8826b7ad.jpg" width="449" height="303" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/1789524/list"><font size="2">Source</font></a></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p>American homeowners are finally demanding reduced or no-mow lawns. </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://www.robsteinergardens.com/images/grasses_1.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.robsteinergardens.com/grasses.htm"><em><font size="2">Rob Steiner Gardens</font></em></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Grow your own vegetable gardens are the trend.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/550x/48/b2/cc/48b2cc021cd0c234aa47dcb69ea466d0.jpg" width="382" height="567" /></p> <p> </p> <p>And the demand for drought-tolerant and native plants is at an all time high.   With the costs of water increasingly rising, homeowners want water-wise drip irrigation and permeable paving.  </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/550x/0d/68/0b/0d680b0ed1a888faf8496136ccd7ab2a.jpg" width="461" height="347" /></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p> </p> <p>Cisterns and other rain-water collection systems are now in vogue.  </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ZtRDbMhsQSY/USo1q1PzT4I/AAAAAAAAB9c/QMmAidnQvtc/s1600-h/cistern%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img title="cistern" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: none; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin-left: auto; display: block; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" border="0" alt="cistern" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfuQ2JfzVPDBpLFV36Bkbef74ZS79GsPXTY5fpxorETpvxejGcerWg8Vz8zAKjarLJWHz6Zbf8j7etAywrX-xUakajy03RnhbJDJgemXYPr5e9LCZrGUIvrWoktWJ1SfDA5zXUJZJO6TxR/?imgmax=800" width="326" height="339" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.kerstingarchitecture.com/"><em><font size="2">Kersting Architecture</font></em></a></p> <p> </p> <p>Perhaps, we are finally moving in the right direction!</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="float: none; margin-left: auto; display: block; margin-right: auto" src="http://www.outerspacela.com/files/i66a5sp5mV6Cd59S3oTPcxSV8XjI7laM.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.outerspacela.com/portfolio/Piedmont_Residence/"><font size="2"><em>Source</em></font></a></p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-85548392768069368102013-02-22T05:31:00.001-08:002013-02-22T05:31:11.085-08:00Garden Love<p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/550x/33/ed/8e/33ed8e4ba9ce67963f4f61c15f3c654b.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.clivenichols.com/galleries/features/WollertonOldHall/content/42644_large.html">Clive Nichols Garden Photography</a></p> <p>I love this!  An antique bird bath surrounded by a small square meadow of daisies with a mown grass perimeter.  Brilliant!</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-63253867886578871442013-02-18T07:52:00.001-08:002013-03-03T06:55:31.250-08:00Guerilla Gardening: Are you in?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: lime; font-family: Constantia; font-size: large;"></span><span style="color: yellow; font-family: Constantia; font-size: x-large;"><strong>May 1, 2013</strong></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: lime; font-family: Constantia; font-size: large;"></span> is</div>
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<span style="color: #ffc000; font-size: large;"><em>International Sunflower Guerilla Gardening Day.</em></span> </div>
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To join up, just visit the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/263305487136573/">Facebook</a> page.</div>
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<img src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/550x/54/91/ef/5491ef436bacb54997aaa1a164e0ea0f.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /><br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/guerrillagardening">Source</a></div>
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Throughout the world, on this day Guerilla Gardeners will step forth in their communities and plant Sunflower seeds “in the hope that they will bring beauty and health to our neighborhoods.” What is this day all about you ask? It’s a day to actively take back our urban and neighborhood streets and beautify them with living plants and flowers. It is about becoming a garden activist and taking action against the urban blight surrounding us. <br />
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<img height="355" src="http://media-cache-ec7.pinterest.com/550x/ac/ec/c5/acecc5557a7aed8bd8d4a4dd9704e91a.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="472" /><br />
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The Guerilla Gardening movement’s mission is to make our public spaces greener and more beautiful. Started by <a href="http://www.guerrillagardening.org/events.html">Richard Reynolds</a> in London in 2004, it quickly spread throughout England, Europe and the World. Now, it has grown into an international horticultural movement to beautify and green up our public spaces.<br />
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<img src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/550x/a6/0c/76/a60c7628c511ef2a7e3625ab9ad29e4b.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /><br />
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Guerilla gardening is the term used to describe the unauthorized cultivation of plants or crops on vacant public or private land. It can take place privately or publicly in an effort to engage the community into improving its streets.<br />
Some Guerilla gardeners make seed bombs.<br />
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<img height="340" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/550x/ef/6c/f6/ef6cf685dc97a37528d2b1e462f1ff84.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="452" /><br />
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And spread them throughout their urban streetscapes, wherever beautification or greenery is needed … or not.<br />
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<img height="344" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/550x/ba/e4/13/bae41394ff1deae9a778b9937a1d073b.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="455" /><br />
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Won’t you join the movement? This is something we can all benefit from! Just stop by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/263305487136573/">Here</a>, sign up and create an event in your own community! Then go out and identify an empty patch of dirt, traffic island or planter in your community. Cultivate it, plant it and nurture it for the benefit of all!<br />
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<img height="348" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/550x/54/10/d9/5410d9635fd9b051b8188d0c22295a32.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="463" /><br />
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To purchase wildflower seeds for your area, click on the pic.</div>
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<iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="150" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6675832.1914;sz=180x150;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802463762;pid=JNSN59995;usg=AFHzDLtpL98li1I2jXy7e63x5Jv1y5612A;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.unbeatablesales.com%252Fjnsn59995.html;pubid=617093;price=%2420.51;title=Environmental+Seed+DFM...;merc=unbeatablesales.com;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fsite.unbeatablesale.com%2Fimg378%2Fjnsn59995.gif;width=60;height=85" vspace="0" width="180"></iframe> <iframe bordercolor="#000000" frameborder="0" height="150" hspace="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://ad.doubleclick.net/adi/N7433.148119.BLOGGEREN/B6675832.3070;sz=180x150;ord=[timestamp]?;lid=41000613802463762;pid=JNSN59994;usg=AFHzDLtspnA-Ycb32yI_0nsTkE_SLY98qg;adurl=http%253A%252F%252Fwww.unbeatablesales.com%252Fjnsn59994.html;pubid=617093;price=%2420.51;title=Environmental+Seed+DFM...;merc=unbeatablesales.com;imgsrc=http%3A%2F%2Fsite.unbeatablesale.com%2Fimg378%2Fjnsn59994.gif;width=51;height=85" vspace="0" width="180"></iframe></div>
It is time to reclaim our sterile streetscape!</div>
Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-71127778312836678172013-02-17T13:46:00.001-08:002013-02-17T13:46:09.616-08:00Happy Valentine’s Day<p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/550x/7c/9d/d1/7c9dd1befbcbb4d3c3c6751247fd02ce.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/550x/23/14/6d/23146deedc8dbec57b801725bd520e90.jpg" width="274" height="274" /></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/550x/59/9b/3e/599b3e6f76210b4ccb04f31b5c618672.jpg" width="278" height="363" /></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/550x/95/db/4f/95db4f369c4a1084ef01f38938174fa9.jpg" width="281" height="322" /></p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/550x/3b/3f/67/3b3f6786e55dbb66f1700b117a91b5ba.jpg" width="287" height="421" /></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><img src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/550x/a1/4f/99/a14f99a030c3247308807e279fce67d8.jpg" width="284" height="216" /></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center">I hope yours was all you hoped for!</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-85811572869326588292013-02-10T08:24:00.001-08:002013-02-10T08:24:15.219-08:00Laissez les bons temps rouler! The Colors of Mardi Gras<p> </p> <p>It’s Mardi Gras!  Carnival season!  And Fat Tuesday is just around the corner.  Ever wonder where those fabulous colors of Mardi Gras came from?  </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/550/73/0f/53/730f53801c7aa28f6dd7e29132d0cbf0.jpg" width="504" height="379" /></p> <p> </p> <p>In 1872, the three colors of Mardi Gras were chosen by Rex, the King of Mardi Gras in honor of the visiting Grand Duke Alexis Alexandrovich Romanoff, who suggested the colors.  And where do you suppose he found these color combinations?</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/550/d5/98/86/d59886f344907aab272d7fd21062070a.jpg" width="523" height="430" /></p> <p> </p> <p align="center"><font size="3"><font color="#9b00d3"><strong>Purple Represents Justice.</strong></font> </font></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/550/17/67/ca/1767ca0755904d1dde5e485382b93648.jpg" width="520" height="349" /></p> <p> </p> <h5 align="center"><font size="3"><font color="#29a354">Green Represents Faith.</font> </font></h5> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/550/54/bf/0c/54bf0cac5d9652ef2b5e23ca0056f601.jpg" width="389" height="517" /></p> <p><font size="3"></font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#ccb400"><strong><font size="3">Gold Represents Power</font>.</strong></font></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/550/fa/e3/e6/fae3e647b6b77da9f7f232dc7843f61d.jpg" width="511" height="381" /></p> <p> </p> <p>The colors are found throughout nature.  </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/550/b9/a6/13/b9a61372b2f8f82cef569659b1712db1.jpg" width="264" height="201" /></p> <p align="center">Johnny Jump Ups <em>Viola tricolor</em></p> <p align="center"><em></em></p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec2.pinterest.com/550/df/33/6a/df336a98b55eff67f324466471494e72.jpg" width="443" height="443" /></p> <p align="center">German Iris <em>Iris germanica</em></p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/550/65/71/70/65717035c6b70761cb2deb5bbd4e5ab2.jpg" width="462" height="309" /></p> <p align="center">Crocus <em>Crocus sativus</em></p> <p> </p> <p>On the Color Wheel, purple and yellow are opposite colors making them the perfect complimentary color combination providing the best contrast.  This effect makes them jump out at you.  While yellow is a primary color, purple and green are both secondary colors (a blend of two primary colors).  </p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/550/5a/6f/a2/5a6fa2ba693619b605ef564e1ddcd6b8.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>For more information on New Orleans’ Mardi Gras, go <a href="http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/">HERE</a>.  For more information on color in the garden, go <a href="http://egardens.blogspot.com/2009/01/color-in-garden.html">HERE</a>.  And to all of you who embrace the season, Laissez les bons temps rouler!</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-26515470455023579352013-02-02T11:31:00.001-08:002013-02-02T11:31:00.107-08:00Flower of the Day<p> </p> <p>If you are into daylilys, you will appreciate this …</p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec5.pinterest.com/550/f9/02/33/f9023399eb050ce8827d7b29544cc9e5.jpg" /></p> <p align="center">‘Creature of the Night’ Daylily</p> <p align="left">Flower color is  purple, white/near White with a yellow throat.  Height is 24 to 36-inches.  These little beauties grow in zones 3a to 9b in full sun to part shade.  I love the dark purple color!  I think I’ll get some for my summer garden.  How about you?</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-49499472780409565572013-01-27T17:00:00.000-08:002013-03-03T06:58:18.361-08:00Concrete Planks<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Concrete pavers come in all shapes and sizes these days. They are now even available in a linear, board-like configuration. I love the random openings in this one. <br />
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<a href="http://land8.com/photo/dsc-0457-hi-res?context=album&albumId=2025679%3AAlbum%3A531307"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Source</span></a></div>
These openings are filled with rocks, plants and even water.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://land8.com/photo/dsc-0498-hi-res?context=album&albumId=2025679%3AAlbum%3A531307">Source</a></span></div>
These little beauties are available from <a href="http://www.stepstoneinc.com/narrow-modular-pavers.htm">Stepstone, Inc.</a> They are just perfect for long, linear applications such as paths or boardwalks. People, by nature, love to follow a path and these concrete pavers are so directional.<br />
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<img height="254" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/367887863280738256_4i8ybkVx_c.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="401" /><br />
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I wonder if New York City’s High Line Park had any influence over their creation?<br />
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<img height="365" src="http://www.djc.com/blogs/SeattleScape/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/high-line.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="542" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.djc.com/blogs/SeattleScape/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/high-line.jpg"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Source</span></a></div>
I won’t miss any opportunity to bring up the High Line. It is truly one of my favorite parks! If I lived in New York City, that’s where you’d fine me – strolling, walking, jogging or just sitting and watching the world go by. Yep … who doesn’t like to stroll above the concete jungle amidst <a href="http://www.oudolf.com/piet-oudolf">Piet Oudolf</a>’s amazing plantings? Now that we’ve got these cool new concrete pavers, hopefully we’ll see more of these linear parks in the works!<br />
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Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-19516437452122499702013-01-18T05:27:00.000-08:002013-01-18T05:27:00.068-08:00Old Thing, New Use<p> </p> <p><em><a href="http://inhabitat.com/pop-up-green-park-invades-the-city-of-lima-peru/green-invasion-3/">Invasion Verde</a></em> is a public park and play space in Lima, Peru that utilizes old car tires as street planters.  Created by architects Genaro Alva, Denise Ampuero, Gloria Andrea Rojas and industrial designer Claudia Ampuero, the street garden was completed in 2010 for the “Gran Semana de Lima,” otherwise known as Lima’s Great Week.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec4.pinterest.com/upload/87327680244614674_AeBDWidP_c.jpg" /></p> <p> </p> <p>The public street garden also features mounds of grass with implanted tires that can be used for seating or for climbing on.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiFEkDqTzWfkH2RZcRRTao43DULvBxZmmsq4rvfBck9qyGnFeFkHub9vfah_sk26vFiHxp8_UAlujUfZIGOZt4_mWY5syogV-pB2upfOJbJmQTNW2U2Ra5enmf-9tzEehYqo8Y9gQlIoa/s1600-h/tires%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="tires" border="0" alt="tires" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-HEsssuIAkbI/UPNbUDCmzzI/AAAAAAAAB8w/gO4G0d206QM/tires_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="477" height="714" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p> What other new uses can you think of for old car tires?  </p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-25546702584077787682013-01-08T04:32:00.000-08:002013-01-08T04:32:00.956-08:00Weekly Garden Fix<p>A San Francisco residential garden conceived as “Outdoor Architecture for every day living.”</p> <p>The curved bronze wall with the fountain is very dramatic against the light limestone paving.  I love the drama, but I’d also like to see more seating and/or outdoor living in this space.  </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZUB3oSzRqWI/UOnpMt4ay8I/AAAAAAAAB7c/PTIv1OaFyys/s1600-h/Lutsko1%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lutsko1" border="0" alt="Lutsko1" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-CctLp1WDaL8/UOnpNfdqfII/AAAAAAAAB7k/rltRU2esSis/Lutsko1_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="550" height="379" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.contemporist.com/2010/06/14/sf-residence-landscaping-by-lutsko-associates/"><font size="2"><em>Source</em></font></a></p> <p>The residential garden is composed of a series of three walled/enclosed outdoor spaces.  Each of the garden rooms is different and separated from the other.  There are thresholds through which one must exit and enter.  </p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZyKPjU98upY/UOnpOayHAVI/AAAAAAAAB7s/-cbPM4S2mlI/s1600-h/Lutsko2%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lutsko2" border="0" alt="Lutsko2" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3hc4EqhwnXc/UOnpPHPI8BI/AAAAAAAAB70/WiUam7j33ZU/Lutsko2_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="548" height="379" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.contemporist.com/2010/06/14/sf-residence-landscaping-by-lutsko-associates/"><font size="2"><em>Source</em></font></a></p> <p align="left">The garden is very monochromatic and consists of greenery along with both bronze and transparent walls, and light limestone or gray slate paving materials.</p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fmAy-uQa8TE/UOnpP6b6XfI/AAAAAAAAB78/jKOBbSGWwyo/s1600-h/lutsko5%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="lutsko5" border="0" alt="lutsko5" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-gDQrnvNRG9w/UOnpQiCa8YI/AAAAAAAAB8E/zQDImRJ0y3U/lutsko5_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="547" height="377" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.contemporist.com/2010/06/14/sf-residence-landscaping-by-lutsko-associates/"><font size="2"><em>Source</em></font></a></p> <p>This entrance into the garden is most inviting to me.  The half-open door is beckoning and makes me want to enter the space to see what the wall is concealing.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NGEClhTAGXw/UOnpRMWKezI/AAAAAAAAB8M/eMtW01oJyoM/s1600-h/Lutsko4%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Lutsko4" border="0" alt="Lutsko4" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-9AsDfrlYDh0/UOnpR9LSrqI/AAAAAAAAB8U/whbFv4VW30c/Lutsko4_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="560" height="382" /></a></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://www.contemporist.com/2010/06/14/sf-residence-landscaping-by-lutsko-associates/"><font size="2"><em>Source</em></font></a></p> <p align="left">I think the spaces are very contemporary and intriguing, albeit a bit cold.  I would love to see how the different garden spaces or rooms are used in real life, wouldn’t you?  The garden was designed by <a href="http://www.lutskoassociates.com/">Lutsko Associates</a> for a residence in San Francisco.  </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">I hope you are off to a good start in 2013.  Please stop by here weekly!</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-17953072245572565442013-01-03T16:45:00.000-08:002013-01-04T14:25:08.459-08:00Curb Appeal in Real Estate<p> </p> <p>I was recently interviewed by Jamie Walker for Wrightsville Beach’s <a href="http://www.luminanews.com/article.asp?aid=11345&iid=358&sud=49">Lumina News</a>.  The subject for the article was on how Curb Appeal can help sell a home.  Sometimes, a picture is worth a thousand words.  Here is a “Before” and “After” of a recent project my husband and I worked on in the Wilmington, NC area.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RCslJ4HLGak/UOdWcNr4gOI/AAAAAAAAB6A/IcfCUfnCkCo/s1600-h/0515.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="051" border="0" alt="051" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6Zp-cPxiRUA6vpmJAiF2-WZoI8R3vSfjNpieKjpG80YvWIwu6k96RMpa3iN-QJvrmuAPIEZUkSpRy8WhM2LNGq8xa3Gm7aPBJZoyS14gdLpM0BbXjytIeLd6uHxt8pDdBssJ5XgtAOf2Z/?imgmax=800" width="442" height="343" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="2"><font color="#cccccc">Before (Home Redesign by </font><a href="http://www.kerstingarchitecture.com/"><font color="#cccccc">Kersting Architecture</font></a>)</font></p> <p align="center"> </p> <p align="center"><font size="2"></font></p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WXZiBxCEjsc/UOdWeCU5rbI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/_q7B2XswshQ/s1600-h/HerndonAfter5.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="HerndonAfter" border="0" alt="HerndonAfter" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fTJuLDd8ax4/UOdWehX_2bI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/5zgqDPq-RL4/HerndonAfter_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="439" height="341" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font size="2"><font color="#cccccc">After (Landscape Design by </font><a href="http://www.pamkersting.com/home.asp"><font color="#cccccc">Pam Kersting</font></a><font color="#cccccc">)</font></font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#cccccc" size="2"></font></p> <p align="left">Curb appeal is paramount in selling a home as it offers the first glimpse of the home to prospective buyers.  If the landscape is neat and tidy and well-kept, it is a good bet that a buyer will also find the home that way.</p> <p align="left">When entering a yard, there should be an obvious progression from street to parking to front entrance or from curb to courtyard to front entrance.  Visitors or buyers shouldn’t have to guess where and how to enter a home.   </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-P7NYtRV2mkA/UOdWfaAK95I/AAAAAAAAB6g/sEFIxdXtK9w/s1600-h/15704_0_49.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="15704_0_4" border="0" alt="15704_0_4" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-R8R8AYrKmIs/UOdWf9j_TaI/AAAAAAAAB6o/NdxjKTDga-Q/15704_0_4_thumb4.jpg?imgmax=800" width="441" height="310" /></a></p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">It’s a good idea to highlight the entrance in some way using annuals or some other speciman plant or object of interest or both.  Also, foundation plantings should always be trimmed several inches below windows so as not to obstruct the architectural features of the home.</p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-l1t8EQrCAkw/UOdWg8izAlI/AAAAAAAAB6w/7v1gUbXwLQc/s1600-h/AHBLEntrance211.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="AHBLEntrance2" border="0" alt="AHBLEntrance2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RCQyuW1PQ8s/UOdWhUmzbfI/AAAAAAAAB64/qPyCu-Ohdgk/AHBLEntrance2_thumb7.jpg?imgmax=800" width="452" height="314" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font color="#cccccc" size="2">Landscape Design by </font><a href="http://www.ahbllandarch.com/people.asp"><font color="#cccccc" size="2">Richard Hartlage</font></a> </p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left">Perhaps most importantly, the landscape should never detract from the home.  Rather, it should be a setting for the home where one would not imagine the house without it’s landscape nor the landscape without the house.</p> <p align="left"> </p> <p align="left"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIdji8Ba1YVWppZW1MLtZzOSkN6oSTBFPwlw6fFT7TWmGCHnwFuDuKORCUc-EjMG0FRjxzmmK-9C_cWAIcjmEB9W4Uk7p-xGnPnuNkIwJvW7OPJXkVuLlJtWtu9AimfgdoCGABl5wK0F4E/s1600-h/AHBL-Entrance4.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto; padding-top: 0px" title="AHBL Entrance" border="0" alt="AHBL Entrance" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-obbMV2o5qbg/UOdWivr7W4I/AAAAAAAAB7I/xYNUVG0j4oA/AHBL-Entrance_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="464" height="361" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font color="#cccccc" size="2">Landscape Design by </font><a href="http://www.ahbllandarch.com/people.asp"><font color="#cccccc" size="2">Richard Hartlage</font></a> </p> <p> </p> <p>Remember these few tips the next time you go to put your home on the market, and I guarantee that your home will get lots of showings and be one of the first in its price range to sell!  And when you do decide to sell your <a href="http://www.pamkersting.com">home contact</a> me.  I also am in <a href="http://www.pamkersting.com">real estate</a> and would be happy to refer you to an outstanding agent in your area!</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-67336028507089993992013-01-02T10:20:00.000-08:002013-01-02T13:44:37.590-08:00Recycled Steps<p> </p> <p>In 2013, we must all do what we can to reduce our <a href="http://www.egardens.blogspot.com/2012/09/carbon-footprint.html">Carbon Footprint</a>!  Recycle, reuse – this will be my mantra this year.  I will also try to bring you many ideas on how YOU can also do this in your own gardens.  </p> <p>Here is the lovely <font color="#ff80ff">Helen Mirren</font> showing us a wonderful new use for <font color="#9c85c0"><strong>discarded car tires</strong></font>.  What a great way to navigate a steep slope!  I am seriously considering doing this in one of my clients’ yards.</p> <p> </p> <p><img style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/114771490474659131_BRVWt1oy_c.jpg" /></p> <p align="center"><font color="#ff0000" size="2"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/367887863280624611/">Pinterest</a></font></p> <p>Thoughts?</p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-12722511006255576852012-12-31T10:01:00.001-08:002012-12-31T10:26:44.500-08:00HELLO 2013!<p> </p> <p>Happy New Year to all!</p> <p>The eve of a new year is always a time to reflect on the many blessings we received in the year just ended.</p> <p> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1gm3J2wlhRI/UOHS-YbMFZI/AAAAAAAAB5U/Rzn7zEt3_tg/s1600-h/beachscape%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="beachscape" border="0" alt="beachscape" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EKgsbX8XRWw/UOHS-4NZwgI/AAAAAAAAB5c/1mkjpPSYIXw/beachscape_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="410" height="284" /></a></p> <p align="center"><font color="#9c85c0" size="2">Photo by Laitham Haddad</font></p> <p>I am thankful to you for stopping by my Blog this year.  I look forward to making positive changes here in 2013 and to posting a lot more.   I hope you will stick around and come back and visit me then.</p> <p>So best wishes as you look to tomorrow and a year full of many possibilities ahead!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Gh30m8gpTl8/UOHS_Z6JjTI/AAAAAAAAB5k/DWTknvsgYyI/s1600-h/Color%252520Garden%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Color%20Garden" border="0" alt="Color%20Garden" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0XMPVTt1lM0/UOHTAEOIV2I/AAAAAAAAB5s/dLUdjsBvBc0/Color%252520Garden_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="282" /></a></p> <p>Where will your path take you in the coming year? </p> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-44825888881686522132012-12-28T08:52:00.001-08:002012-12-28T08:58:10.853-08:00Playgrounds for the Ages<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Playgrounds aren’t just for kids anymore! Gone are the playgrounds of yesteryear …<br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jSd_-mT9pRk/UN3OMA-AouI/AAAAAAAAB3I/FPODVD7VGDE/s1600-h/merry-go-rounds%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img alt="merry go rounds" border="0" height="203" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e591kDaIbys/UN3OMz9n7QI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/L25mfq37WJE/merry-go-rounds_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="merry go rounds" width="300" /></a> <br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UfPqgqfPrWs/UN3ONRzvH6I/AAAAAAAAB3Y/Idw6qXTKISE/s1600-h/slide%25255B1%25255D.jpg"><img alt="slide" border="0" height="340" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-E6Vm10ogLX4/UN3ONr7k_NI/AAAAAAAAB3g/w8xz95e6AM0/slide_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="slide" width="234" /></a><br />
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They are <span style="color: red;">OUT</span> with the old. <br />
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Here is what is <span style="background-color: #9b00d3;"></span><span style="color: red;">IN</span><span style="background-color: #9b00d3;"></span> with the new …<br />
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Playgrounds for all ages. The new trend in playground design is the creation of MULTI-generational facilities that will accommodate seniors as well as children and everyone in-between.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwO_weBss6bygr1f8tGfR2oA08bb3sC0hIYWPAdrgORLc_yP77JHILaQjEuR_fEmDuAaiULmDzS3PXdAobyJzXz_anw91BrfVJQcZDSfLR50qIscLOucOkAbmCbXuGznZL1KN8MBdcSr5c/s1600-h/senior-playgrounds%25255B4%25255D.gif"><img alt="senior-playgrounds" border="0" height="264" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bRvIrMdIlw8/UN3OOoh314I/AAAAAAAAB3w/m43buR-ep-k/senior-playgrounds_thumb%25255B2%25255D.gif?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="senior-playgrounds" width="378" /></a><br />
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Fun for all ages!<br />
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<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-zAfd6OSG3Nc/UN3OO_9m3WI/AAAAAAAAB34/wQN7rU60DtI/s1600-h/Playgrounds%252520senior%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Playgrounds senior" border="0" height="276" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fFMgvi1Q7YE/UN3OPRVDkAI/AAAAAAAAB38/ay1PWFumbaI/Playgrounds%252520senior_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Playgrounds senior" width="384" /></a><br />
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Playgrounds today are designed to be <span style="color: red;">ACCESSIBLE</span> to everyone. Double-wide ramps and handrails allow just about any person to enter and play.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GcRoTd1LKNM/UN3OPxnA8eI/AAAAAAAAB4I/Gz-nVrQAPgs/s1600-h/Accessible%252520DoubleWide_Ramp_PopUp%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Accessible DoubleWide_Ramp_PopUp" border="0" height="282" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-bV0HnFqFzoM/UN3OQUO49MI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/5o4RsKYSNBw/Accessible%252520DoubleWide_Ramp_PopUp_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Accessible DoubleWide_Ramp_PopUp" width="361" /></a><br />
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Play equipment is placed at just the right height for use by all!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6h2l2wh4X3vu3nOv6JNE72nLg1Jcwj38ejTzajUGS4Gu2Ru_1dCZqF5wZEpciuwZoTCEO7oKQoongioPsTkpEglLlanG_swz-pvLV8z1rvQdkX2sPwV2N7NBLNqr71x_Icaymc7_zz7s/s1600-h/AccessibleReachPanelChimesPB%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="ReachPanelChimesPB.jpg" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTTOUWwxrSzdD0qURP5nFFJ8GZlKVbFW-cwiUVPjdp3qEUStpSPh_4lzDINTfB4kwiNqvQOkFur8Hr245nKJLbV9DLI6E6PiW03KcK-litTVZ-MsZMxCt3ltw_eY-F41dEpdDm4Rv7MVRx/?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="ReachPanelChimesPB.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
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Playground surfaces are soft and firm allowing everyone, young or old, to have access to the area. <a href="http://www.playlsi.com/">Landscape Structures</a> has developed a PebbleFlex® surfacing system that provides enhanced safety and durability. This material is softer, making for a safer play surface. It comes in a variety of colors and will accommodate custom graphics.<br />
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<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gGpIN4Nv5fg/UN3ORdUVvnI/AAAAAAAAB4k/pnHwRFhpA8M/s1600-h/Playground%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="393" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-5Tv_UEg6ZUE/UN3OR7Hp_LI/AAAAAAAAB4w/tMtOt6T1IWw/Playground_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="" width="503" /></a><br />
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Concrete walks as well as sitting areas are built around the perimeter to allow walking surfaces for mom’s who want a little exercise while keeping a close eye on their children at play.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-VNx5qgd2TzM/UN3OSv7JZMI/AAAAAAAAB44/ALPIZ8E03Wg/s1600-h/Plaground3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Plaground3" border="0" height="402" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-hpmIzAbSk1w/UN3OS5CRRUI/AAAAAAAAB5A/-6kiLRX2xvY/Plaground3_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Plaground3" width="392" /></a><br />
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<span style="color: red;"><span style="color: #666666;">Today’s playgrounds are better than ever and</span> FUN</span> for all ages!</div>
Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-60735908090350514702012-12-27T06:42:00.001-08:002012-12-27T06:56:42.563-08:00Wall Coverings to the Rescue<div style="text-align: left" dir="ltr" trbidi="on"> <br /><img alt="House wrapped in graphics using bus wrapping material." src="http://www.astekwallcovering.com/sites/default/files/styles/anyanyimage/public/anyanyimages/bus_graphics-Layout.jpg" width="595" height="360" /> <br /> <div align="center"><span style="font-size: x-small">Photo by </span><a href="http://www.astekwallcovering.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small"><em>Astek, Inc.</em></span></a></div> When Product developer Eric Chu built his prefab house on a narrow lot in LA, he put it face to face with another identical one.  Both featured vast walls of glass overlooking a motor court, and each other.  What to do about views and privacy?  According to <a href="http://www.dwell.com/magazine">dwell</a> magazine (Dec/Jan 2013), Chu and Architect Whitney Sander brought in <a href="http://www.astekwallcovering.com/">Astek, Inc</a>. to cover the facades with a graphic wall covering using bus wrapping material.  The material only covers 50 percent of the window thereby allowing views from the inside out and preventing views from the outside in.  The mural features a photograph of a Chinese Pistache tree also found on site.</div> Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-80803127527307854412012-12-23T07:58:00.001-08:002013-01-07T06:55:43.355-08:00Emerald is the Pantone Color of the Year<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSArN4izlh8li-gC3_Qa7N0sUlMEE-uzsxA2tRXO79N5P83u0bxIZmPdg6nGgE63JjO783jK3f0n7KBq9QoCtPChnlHdv3Nf2bhCWdfw5yVu82YJy0ScADLdSOntbyOiDgJaFGceumwJC_/s1600-h/Pantone%252520Color%252520of%252520the%252520year%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Pantone Color of the year" border="0" height="62" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bInMOJNTAgw/UNcqFe9AUbI/AAAAAAAAB1s/TK-9sDN76bU/Pantone%252520Color%252520of%252520the%252520year_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Pantone Color of the year" width="528" /></a><br />
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According to the people at Pantone, this emerald green is …<em> <strong><span style="color: #408080;">“Lively. Radiant. Lush … A color of elegance and beauty that enhances our sense of well-being, balance and harmony.”</span></strong></em><br />
The closest green I could find in nature that matches<em> this</em> emerald, was found on the leaves of the Sedum ‘Autumn Joy.’ It appears more as a blue-ish green than a true “emerald” green to me.<br />
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<img height="438" src="http://www.finegardening.com/CMS/uploadedimages/Images/Gardening/Issues_91-100/041102042_maintenance_dividing_xlg.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="531" /><br />
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Pantone’s emerald appears to be a color not readily found in nature.<br />
When I think of Emerald green, some of the plants that come to mind are …<br />
Emerald Green Arborvitae.<br />
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<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-qyicbIFgNNA/UNcqFxw51jI/AAAAAAAAB1w/HvkylZ_9tV8/s1600-h/arborvitaeEmeraldGreen.gif"><img alt="arborvitaeEmeraldGreen" border="0" height="254" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2_xrdmHipXI/UNcqGDqRxoI/AAAAAAAAB10/k7OGDAV4tPE/arborvitaeEmeraldGreen_thumb.gif?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="arborvitaeEmeraldGreen" width="365" /></a><br />
Green peas.<br />
<img src="http://quasarfoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/untitled-107051049.jpg" style="display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /><br />
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And of course, the Irish Shamrock.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2w-CS6-WREw/UNcqGhxXaMI/AAAAAAAAB1A/1lWwLRXxDO8/s1600-h/shamrock2.jpg"><img alt="shamrock" border="0" height="180" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CujkZs5TLBI/UNcqHHxW-iI/AAAAAAAAB1I/puEd7QCOMaM/shamrock_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="shamrock" width="244" /></a><br />
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Let’s just throw the whole Emerald Isle in there too.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-R2vvsCr_0Cw/UNcqHplHIvI/AAAAAAAAB1Q/lZVzw75kv5c/s1600-h/Irish-Countryside2.jpg"><img alt="Irish Countryside" border="0" height="148" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-c9nQbSyDpVQ/UNcqIN0zBPI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/n19MsIT9yPA/Irish-Countryside_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Irish Countryside" width="244" /></a></div>
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And, who can forget the Emerald City from the Wizard of Oz?<br />
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<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-GrqSduZKc0M/UNcsJBL2KwI/AAAAAAAAB14/tQdjhGMbNKQ/s1600-h/emerald-city%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img alt="emerald-city" border="0" height="191" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CyP_rOjweEg/UNcsJrMsjAI/AAAAAAAAB2A/IigCvqw-0O8/emerald-city_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; border-right: 0px; border-top: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="emerald-city" width="286" /></a><br />
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Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-904017480503897256.post-42460327734298852392012-09-05T10:36:00.001-07:002013-01-02T13:50:52.625-08:00Carbon footprint<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I’ve been reading lately about our carbon footprint. Here is what I have learned. <br />
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Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that contributes to global warming. It also defines our carbon footprint. Basically, this is a measure of the impact our activities have on the environment, and especially, climate change. It relates to the amount of greenhouse gases or carbon dioxide that is produced in our day-to-day lives, typically through the burning of fossil fuels for electricity, heating and transportation. Simply put, it is the amount of total carbon dioxide emitted for us to carry out our daily lives.<br />
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The carbon footprint consists of two parts. The primary footprint is a measure of our <em><strong>direct </strong></em>emissions of CO2 from the burning of fossil fuels including domestic energy consumption and transportation (e.g. car and plane). We have <em>direct</em> control of these. <br />
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The secondary footprint is a measure of the <strong><em>indirect</em></strong> CO2 emissions from the whole lifecycle of products we use - those associated with their manufacture and eventual breakdown. To put it very simply – the more we buy, the more emissions will be caused on our behalf.<br />
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Are you aware that your home is typically the largest contributor to your carbon footprint annually? <br />
Why is it important to reduce our carbon footprint? Because carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas that damages the environment and contributes to global warming. It is important for all of us to be aware of this and take steps to reduce our carbon footprint. To see what you can do to reduce your carbon footprint, go <a href="http://www.carbonfootprint.com/minimisecfp.html">Here</a>. <br />
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Finally, if you’re interested, you can also go <a href="http://www.carbonfootprint.com/calculator.aspx">Here</a> to calculate your own carbon footprint.<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-skAAnK8QdVM/UEeNrybmEEI/AAAAAAAAB0A/ggt1tCdr95Y/s1600-h/footprints%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="footprints" border="0" height="314" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gCbL46UA4vA/UEeNsWEuTSI/AAAAAAAAB0I/8yfGYgM4LEg/footprints_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="footprints" width="207" /></a></div>
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Pam Kerstinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10180448328445549120noreply@blogger.com6