Gates

Just about every design I create for my clients involves the very essential "gate"! It designates back yard from front yard and sometimes it keeps some potential wanderers from trespassing.

If the client is a dog owner, it keeps their pets in and other neighbourhood pets out. Also, if there is a pool, it fulfills the bylaw requirements of a closed off area surrounding the pool.


What I have come to notice in recent years is that many people are looking for something much more than just a simple gate... something that will set them apart from their neighbour's gate.












What ever the purpose of the gate, the style is important as it states a point of entry to either your front yard or back yard and sometimes even your driveway (as in the picture at the below).








So if you are completing a fence project this year, or looking to replace an old and failing gate, remember that this will be your chance to add a personal flare to your yard. Make a statement by creating a unique gate.

Could it be Spring???

Well it seems that the weather has finally changed towards the gardener's favour! I am checking the forecasts here in Toronto and there is no calling for below freezing weather any time soon.

That should be good news for Spring bulbs, cherry blossoms and many other things that will bud over the next few weeks!

Almost patio weather, but not quite pool side summer sun just yet...
(In this photo: Pool side sunning/seating area for two, set on beautiful Owensound Square-cut flagstone.)

Time for this Gardener to come out of Hibernation!

Snowshoes...

Well folks, March is here and the snow does not seem to be letting up! Last year at this time we were facing an early Spring thaw and it was business as usual for those of us that do landscape design work.

This snow keeps up and I may have to include snowshoes as a tool of my trade!

Unfortunately, this year we have about12 inches
of snow currently on the ground only after things melted from the previous snow events and was replaced by new snow! Now? More snow on the way...

As I am sure this is a great thing for most people that love skiing and other winter activities. Ski resorts and winter lodges will certainly profit from the upcoming March break. Hopefully most landscape contractors did not base their snow removal contracts on the previous two years of winter we have had... otherwise you will see a few guys going bankrupt!

Now... in my industry where people like me do design work for residential properties, the snow is a major hindrance to landscape designing! I find myself having to cancel consultations and sit patiently waiting for Mother Nature to decide when she is ready for it to stop snowing. It prevents me from measuring up yards and seeing the entire property palate that I have to work with.

(photo source: www.cottagenews.ca Post:February 9, 2008)

The only thing I can say is... I might just be investing in snowshoes and asking clients to dig up old photos of their yards so I can go about my business! When you can't win against Nature, you have to overcome and adapt!