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Five big backyard excuses for those in a `rut' As a landscape designer, I've seen it all-- from barren wastelands to overgrown, untamed jungles. For most homeowners, it seems that backyards are foreign, intimidating places. Many people feel that they can't make changes so the backyard stays the same, year after year. Here are my five favourite excuses that people use when stuck in a gardening `rut': 1. "If I replace my lawn with gardens, I will have to spend more time in the backyard working." This statement is completely false. The truth is, grass requires more maintenance than any alternative material. A well­planned garden uses less water and requires less weekly attention than the average lawn. The key is to have a garden that works in your location. A little research cultivates years of reward. Get your camera and take some pictures of what grows well in a neighbour's yard. That's always a great place to start. 2. "I have a large tree and nothing grows under it." This really isn't a challenge; it's an opportunity to transform the garden into an inviting spot that draws people into the cooling comfort of a shady tree on a hot day. This can be created simply by working with the roots of the tree instead of trying to compete with them. Plan the garden in the area between the roots and nology such as Black & Decker's new cordless products, the time needed for year work is greatly reduced. These new cordless tools have features, such as handle and height adjustments, that make them surprisingly easy to maintain and comfortable to use. Not only are they ready to work when you are, these lightweight and powerful tools will also help get the job done quickly, so you have more time to enjoy your yard. Remember, gardening is supposed to be a pleasure, not a chore. 5. "My children need a place to play." Perfect. Kids love to garden. Plan the space with your children. Let them help pick plants and design their own section of the yard. Since this is a garden for them to play in, some of plants might not make it ­ but that's okay. A garden is the perfect spot for the entire family to spend the afternoon. If you want to make a change in the way you use your outdoor space, then go for it. What's really stopping you? More information is available online at www.blackanddecker.com, or toll­free 1­800­54­HOW­TO. --Carson Arthur is best known as HGTV's landscaping host from Green Force and Global's Room To Grow. He focuses on creating harmony between urban needs and ecological choices. --www.newscanada.com 3 Home, Lawn & Garden, Tuesday, May 10, 2011 think of them as the framework for designing the space. Using shade­loving plants sometimes isn't enough, as they have to compete with the tree for water and nourishment. Instead, plant shrubs and perennials inside a larger pot in the ground, which gives them the chance to get established. 3. "It's going to be expensive to make big changes." It's true. Landscaping is never cheap if done properly, but there are a few things that should be consid- ered. A well­designed outdoor space holds its value when it comes to resale. Also, no one ever said that you had to make all the changes at once. Have a plan and work towards the yard of your dreams in stages as the funds become available. 4. "I don't have time to look after my outdoor space." Often, having the right tool for the job makes it so much easier. Gardening has never been as simple as it is today. With new tech- EMPIRE LANDSCAPING Empire Landscaping would like to take this opportunity to welcome Paul Pettersen of Appleby Systems to the Halton Hills Business Community. Also thank you Paul for generously donating a gas BBQ and gas fireplace for us to display at the Milton Home Show last month. It was greatly appreciated. Residential · Estates · Commercial The world's fastest growing central vacuum manufacturer! Design and Build · Interlocking Driveways · Walkways · Patios · Complete Backyard Retreats · Natural Stone Steps · Armour Stone · Flagstone · Retaining Walls BAGS BELTS FILTERS VAC SOCKS VAC PANS MUFFLERS MOP HEADS ACCESSORIES HOSE HANGERS See In Store For Details Georgetown Owned and Operated 905-877-2485 Out of Town Call: 1-866-322-4765 Guaranteed Workmanship Visit us at empire-landscaping.ca GARAGE KITS HOSES POWERHEADS PIPE FITTINGS CENTRAL VACUUMS PORTABLE VACUUMS COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL STEAM CLEANERS INSTALLATION & REPAIRS (905)-702-8796 148 Guelph St. (West of Mountianview)