Fill Your Garden Wagon
April 11, 2011
April 14, 15 and 16 head over to River Farms in Northern Virginia. Plants, shrubs, garden supplies, art and more at the Annual Spring Garden market hosted by the American Horticultural Society. Call 703-768-5700 or www.ahs.org for more information. While you are there, allow time to visit their gardens and the Estate house.
Not Just Another Pretty Face
April 9, 2011
The landscape industry generally focuses on the sensual aspects of trees and plants. We rarely think about the environmental benefits of plants. Yes, looking at plants can increase positive feelings and reduce fear and anger.
But, another important feature to consider is properly selected and placed plantings:
- Absorb sound waves and can significantly reduce unwanted “noise pollution”
- Trap and filter dust and other pollutants out of rainwater.
- Help remove low levels of chemicals such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde from indoor environments.
- Reduce soil erosion, filter pollutants and reduce downstream flooding
Now, that’s what I call a day’s work.
Feel Better, Look Younger
April 4, 2011
Give the outdoor gym a chance this spring. And there are no initiation fees to pay!
- You can burn as many calories in 45 minutes of gardening as in 30 minutes of aerobics.
- Women 50+ who garden at least once a week had higher bone density scans than those who walked, jogged or swam.
- One hour of weeding burns 300 calories.
- A manual push mower burns 500 calories an hour (the same rate as playing tennis).
