∞Green Roofs Are Going To The Dogs∞

No its not figurative, we literally mean they are going to the dogs. Dog houses that is!

Green Roofs have been spreading world wide as a great way insulate homes, improve water retention, and keep that retained water cleaner. Unfortunately for most of us it means a big investment, and some serious load bearing adjustments. On the smaller scale though, it is easy enough to get the beautiful garden space at far more manageable height and cost. Find a friend or gather the family and make a weekend out of renovating your dogs home into an insulated, eye catching, dream house.

On top of being good for you dog in the hot days of summer, or the child night of fall, a green roof dog house can even provide drinking water that is cleaner then any man made filtering system can provide. Set up your green roof drainage over a bowl or bucket and you've got that chore covered.

Don't have a dog or spouse that would use such an out door retreat, but still want to try your hand at Green Roofing? Try a bird house. Its the same concept, but provides a new look to an old idea. Invite beautiful birds to live near you home, and provide them with a cool and comfortable living space. These bird houses are a great way to get children involved in the green movement, and educate them on gardening, while at the same time having some fun. Take a look here for a quick way to modify your current bird house, or to get some ideas for building your own.

Click Here --> http://gardentherapy.ca/green-roof-birdhouse-tutorial/
Click Here --> http://www.urbangardensweb.com/2010/07/16/are-green-roofs-for-the-birds/

Most commonly in Green Roofs you will see Sedum(Stonecrop). These plants tend to do very well in the small, low moisture space.  However some cascading plants, grasses and annuals will also do well in the green roof setting, depending on the exposure, space, and soil depth. Find what words best for you, the opportunities are endless. Check out your local nurseries and explain the application, most often they will be able to point you in the right direction.

If your not sure were to start though, here are some neat looking sedum to try. (Plants referenced from Eagle Lake Nurseries http://www.eaglelakenurseries.com/index.php)

Tricolor Stone Crop
Sedum spurium "Tricolor"

Perennial - Partial Shade to Full Sun
Zone: 3a
Height: 6"
Spread: 18"

Frosty Morn Stonecrop
Sedum "Frosty Morn"

Perennial - Partial Shade to Full Sun
Zone: 3a
Height: 27"
Spread: 23"

Angelina Stonecrop
Sedum rupestre "Angelina"

Perennial - Partial Shade to Full Sun
Zone: 3a
Height: 6"
Spread: 15"

∞Retaining Your Rain With Style∞

Rain barrels, a simple but fantastic way to reduce your
garden water bill. The concept is easy, water runs from your roof down the spout. Each drop, instead of running down your driveway or in a concentrated sink hole in your lawn, it gathers in a barrel. A wooden lid prevents debris and water breeding bugs from contaminating the water and reduces evaporation. A spigot hear the bottom releases the water into your desired distribution system and voila, you have yourself sustainable and cost reducing water supply.

On the market today however, consumers often face a dilemma when it comes to this simplistic water conservation option. Large, chunky, plastic green bins are most often the first option presented to home owners. Some can see past the un-savory outsides of everyday plastic barrels, but in the evolution from back yard to personal paradise, people won't risk the eye sore even for its eco friendly value. Fear not home owners, there are plenty of alternative and functional Rain barrels to suit any yard, front or back.  Take a look at some of these examples and start the search for your perfect style.

Looking for that rustic old school barrel, and still wanting to go green? Try this true to name barrel version of the water retention system. Keep the beauty, and get that classic wooden beauty.











Enjoy planters and don't want your Rain Barrel to take up any more space then it needs. Try a combination effect. Stylish, modern, and functional, this barrel wont take away from your garden space and can bring color and water to your home.







Ever wanted a waterfall but never cared for the electrical bill or annoying pump sounds. Try this cold stone look for your Rain water collection system. Overflow will trickle down and giving you that picturesk trickle, and offer you flowing water for days to come.


Now that you have selected the perfect Rain Barrel, its time to install it. Don't worry, it can be as easy as it is beautiful and funcitonal. Follow along with the steps in this video, and you will be collecting water before you know it.
Click Here ---> http://youtu.be/OGwp5s0CH8k

Also if you need a bit more information before making your choice, check out this site by healthy landscapces and the University of Rhode Island.
Click Here ---> http://www.uri.edu/ce/healthylandscapes/rainbsources.html

Not sure how to maintain your current barrels, or still need some tips on set up check out EPCOR.
Click Here ---> http://www.epcor.com/efficiency-conservation/outside-your-home/Pages/rain-barrels.aspx