Basic differences, comparison, pros and cons of irrigation systems in Toronto.

The irrigation system offered by Captain Handy realizes the watering of plants in two main ways: overhead irrigation system and drip irrigation.

The entire plot is divided into watering zones. Each zone can have one of the two watering methods and its own schedule, which is necessary for optimal watering of the plants that grow in that zone.

The irrigation system can be automatic or semi-automatic:

A semi-automatic irrigation system is controlled by taps installed on each irrigation zone. The taps are manually operated and a person is needed to follow the watering schedule of the zones and to open the tap at a designated time and close the tap after a designated time.

When the faucet is opened, the water pressure in the mainline drops, and the pump turns on. It maintains the water pressure in the pipes. This pressure is used to actuate all the actuators needed for irrigation. Sprinkler rods are lifted from the ground, nozzles are turned to the desired sector, water is filtered, and pressure reducers are actuated.

A semi-automatic system does not use electronics, weather sensors, or electrically controlled valves. This undoubtedly leads to lower cost of the entire irrigation system and increased reliability, as there are fewer components that can fail.

The main disadvantage of this semi-automatic system, however, is the human factor. A person must be present at all times to monitor the filling of the storage tanks, pump operation, pressure in the system, weather conditions, and watering schedules. At the same time do not forget to open taps in time and, just as importantly, close them in time, because overwatering for plants is as harmful as lack of moisture.

The automatic system is equipped with an electronic control unit – the auto irrigation controller.  Electrically controlled valves and various sensors.

The automatic system is more expensive than the semi-automatic is its main disadvantage. An automatic irrigation controller takes care of all routine functions, which are the responsibility of man in the case of a semi-automatic system. The automatic opens and closes the valves. The controller monitors the moisture and temperature of the soil; if it rains, watering is reduced or canceled altogether.

Тhe irrigation schedule is automatically adjusted to seasonal variations in average daily temperature. Therefore, human involvement is kept to a minimum. Usually, it is only necessary to make small adjustments to the irrigation schedule 2-3 times per season.

Failure-free operation of irrigation systems

Equally important is trouble-free operation. The Captain Handy irrigation controllers pay a lot of attention to this. The fact is that the irrigation system is an engineering system that serves the benefit of man, but sometimes it can cause harm. The irrigation system usually stores a large amount of water in storage tanks of 3000-5000 liters, or water is supplied from the water utility. A powerful pump is used, which creates a lot of pressure and has a fairly decent capacity.

Let’s consider a hypothetical situation: one night in a corner of the site for some reason there is a depressurization or burst the main pipe. The main pipe is usually installed with 32-40 mm pipe, the flow rate of which can be up to 4-5m³ water per hour. The pressure in this pipe is 5 atm. What will happen in a semi-automatic system: the pump will work continuously and unsuccessfully, trying to create pressure in the main. After about an hour, the entire 5,000 liter supply of water from the storage tanks, or an even larger volume if a central water supply line is used, will be poured out under pressure into a single point of the garden plot.

The consequences of this event can be very disastrous not only for the plants and landscape but also for the capital structures located near the accident point. A man may not have time to react in such a short time. The automatic system will not allow the accident to happen. The controller sees a sudden pressure drop and if it happens when there is no irrigation, the pump is blocked and an alarm is sent to the dispatcher.

Another situation that a less experienced semi-automatic irrigation system user may not even feel is that the filters are partially clogged. During irrigation, the pump can not create enough pressure for normal and quality irrigation of the area. The controller sees this and sends a message to the dispatcher.

Another situation is when the containers run out of water during irrigation. A person probably won’t notice it right away, but the dispenser will work quickly and reliably.

The best time to water is in the late evening, at night, or early morning hours of 4-6 am. No one will want to turn on the taps at that time, and the dispenser does not mind it here either.

The advantages of an automatic system are many, but there is another disadvantage worth mentioning, which is overall reliability. Electronics can fail, yes they can. No one is immune to that. Sometimes everything breaks down: computers, phones, televisions any household, and even industrial electronics. The automatic system is not deprived of this flaw either.

In this case, there is a way out: the automatic system can be switched to the semi-automatic mode for the period of repair. The pump can be switched on and off manually, independent of the controller. The solenoid valves can also easily be unlocked and the water can be supplied to the zone bypassing the electrical signal from the controller.

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Lighting in landscape design

A house in Oakville, in addition to being a place of permanent or seasonal residence, also provides an excellent opportunity for self-fulfillment. And the easiest way to do this is to devote yourself to improving the surrounding landscape.

The work will be not only planting plants and breakdown of beds, but also to give the garden a special charm. If during the day for this atmosphere will be responsible for the flowers and decorative elements, then in the evening it will be the responsibility of the landscape lighting in Oakville. This is a fairly large area of work in the design of the homestead. The arrangement of lighting has its own subtleties and requires a serious approach to the implementation of ideas.

How lighting is created in landscape design

High-quality garden lighting can provide only a multilevel system of wisely grouped correctly directed lighting elements. They will have to simultaneously perform both the main functional task of illuminating the territory, and decorate its space with their glow.

The layout of the lighting fixtures is usually created during the final phase of the landscape design process. Presenting landscape lighting fixtures should accentuate the best views from windows, mark the private areas and represent the front. Then determine the adequacy of the points of placement of lighting structures and pre-estimate how powerful should be in their lamps. This will also decide:

• the number and type of lighting fixtures landscape lighting, which will need to purchase;
• color solution of the dome;
• the direction of the light flux.

Landscape details that need to be illuminated

Be sure to illuminate all the obstacles on the site, whether they are natural or man-made. First of all, is arranged lighting ponds in the landscape design. It requires a special approach. If you make a perimetric backlighting, then even the puddle will seem  inordinately deep, almost a dark abyss.

But the location of light sources at the bottom or directly on the surface of the water object, will produce just the opposite effect, and instead of a black frightening abyss on the site will appear mysterious pond, for example.

It is good to hide decorative landscape lighting fixtures in the crowns of plants. Shrubs and trees gain volume, and the site is enriched with a luminous object of ornate shape.

Alpine hill – a great place to turn the imagination. Lighting such an element in the landscape design can be made as a single floor lamp, installed on top, and several flat lights, stacked in the base. Either solution will certainly enrich the composition and advantageously present its most successful elements.

You can resort to a non-standard option for landscape lighting and let the alpine slide with a glowing serpentine, garland. If there is no need to accentuate any details of the object, it is better to remove the lamps from it. In this case, such representatives of landscape lighting as directional lights will be good. Surrounded by them the rockery will look natural.

Flowerbeds and flower beds can be illuminated in a non-standard way, using as a lamp an old wide vase of glass. Inside the container is laid bulbs, working on solar energy. The vase is placed in the center of the bed, turning it upside down and slightly digging. The soft light of the solar lamps will be quite enough to emphasize the beauty of the blooming plants.

But paths are illuminated not only for decorative purposes. It is also relevant aspect of safety, so you need to make an adequate selection of lighting designs. They must match the architectural design of the walkways.

Types of landscape lighting Oalville

Before we begin to deal with the variety of ways to organize lighting in landscape design, it should be noted that the lighting can be presented as:

• general;
• accent lighting.

By properly balancing the flooding general light and accent lighting, you can achieve a high artistry of the decorated area.

Creating a light design project, you need to highlight the main objects and background elements of the overall picture, to designate focal points, and then form between all of this smooth transitions.

Ways to light your landscape

To make the homestead territory in the evening hours is not less attractive than during the day, you need to light it competently. In fact, the development of a lighting project is a set of certain techniques. This is a combination of different levels of landscape lighting schemes and lamps.

So, the site should be:

1. general lighting.
2. floral lighting.
3. Architectural lighting.
4. backlighting of water bodies.

General lighting

Its task is to emphasize the layout of the territory, to show the location of major objects, access roads, grounds, gazebos, buildings, etc. Landscape lighting in Oakville is provided here by fixtures such as:

• lanterns;
• floodlights;
• decorative pillars;
• pendant lamps;
• bollards.

Flora illumination

In any landscape, there are green spaces that can be highlighted with a stream of directional light. This is a great way to turn flowerbeds, rockeries, rock gardens, alpinaries, trees and shrubs into art objects. With skillful landscape lighting, they will play with new colors.

What height, power, type of light supply to choose lighting fixtures will depend on the size and shape of the plants, the texture of their trunks, light-absorbing capacity of leaves and their seasonal variability.

Architectural Lighting

“Designing architectural lighting in landscape design, necessarily take into account the shape, proportions and design of the house, especially the transition of some architectural forms into other, the color scheme of facade finish”.

This method of lighting in landscape design is designed to emphasize the beauty of the architecture of buildings. The emphasis is placed on the individual fragments of houses, the texture of the walls, the originality of the roof. Preference is given to elegant with good design, lighting structures, which are installed on the canopies of buildings, their walls or buried in the ground. For greater efficiency, you can try combinations of lights.

Backlighting a structure allows a home to remain attractive in the evening hours. Designing architectural lighting in landscape design, be sure to take into account the shape, proportions and construction of the house, the features of the transition of some architectural forms into other, the color solution of the facade. This will help determine the point of installation of lamps and the angle of filing them light streams.

The task is complex, so it makes sense to resort to the services of professionals. They have knowledge of the latest technologies in landscape lighting and practical skills that will allow to realize any fantasy regarding the arrangement of the night garden. 

Artistic highlighting of objects, except for the professional approach, also requires a specific lighting equipment. In landscape lighting modern fixtures can reproduce the entire light patterns on the walls of buildings, create dynamic lighting and original tracking light. Here you need to play with the intensity and color spectrum of the outgoing beams, as well as the direction of their filing. Designers use three basic home lighting schemes.

Flood lighting

Its task is to illuminate the building as a whole. The reception is relevant for lighting large-scale constructions, usually non-residential type. The object is vividly shown in the dark by powerful landscape lighting fixtures: floodlights mounted on the ground or nearby buildings, and street lamps.

Their rays clearly show the shape of the object and all the original details of its finish. The presence of floodlighting is mandatory in the landscape design of church sites, palaces of culture, museums, as well as in places where at night there is a lot of life. 

Local illumination

Their beams illuminate only the most expressive parts of the facade decor and emphasize the peculiarities of the building structure. It’s a great way to highlight balconies, balustrades, cornices and friezes. To achieve the effect a group of spotlights is used, giving a directional light flux. They are installed directly on the facade of the illuminated object.

Concealed lighting

A relatively new trend in landscape lighting. The task of the lights is not to illuminate the walls, but to create a unique light pattern on them. You can not only follow the architectural relief of the structure, but also create arbitrary decorative compositions.

Backlighting of water reservoirs

Illuminated water objects will certainly become an accent zone of any territory. With the right approach to choosing for this type of landscape lighting Oakville fixtures, streams, waterfalls, ponds, lakes, pools and fountains will look like real works of art.

Conclusion

There are many options for lighting in landscape design in Oakville. The leading criteria for choosing its scheme are financial opportunities and the vision of the object by the customer. The right solution – a pledge of comfort in the garden and park area at night and its round-the-clock decorativeness. Trust the arrangement of the landscape specialist and believe me, the result will be worth the effort and money!

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Often, in order to decorate the yard, owners resort to the services of professionals. Of course, an experienced landscape designer knows the techniques that can turn any site into a sample of elegance and good taste. However, a simple landscaping design in Toronto can provide your own forces. This requires inspiration, patience and imagination.

Issues of registration of garden plots, suburban plots, adjacent territory are always of concern to their owners. A plot of land requires a lot of attention and effort. Here you always want something to improve, add, redo, radically change … To help comes a simple landscaping design – the art that allows you to transform the untended, overgrown area in a well-maintained and harmonious garden.

Simple landscaping design takes into account many factors: the topography, soil, climatic conditions. No less important is the expression of preferences, style and lifestyle of the owners of the territory. In the arrangement of land plots used two approaches: preserving the original natural beauty or create a radically new image. As a rule, designers choose the golden mean, ennobling the natural base of spectacular landscapes.

Stages of a simple landscaping design

A memorable, picturesque, yet simple landscaping design requires preparation:

• Initially, the site is divided into zones, in which the garden, vegetable garden, flowerbeds, recreation area, area for children, household area.
• In the second stage, a graphic drawing with the designation of paths, landscaping and landscaping elements is made. At the same time, a landscaping plan is developed – an integral part of the landscape design. After all, the territory of the future site – a continuation of the country house or cottage, on which lawns, decorative ponds, orchards with fruit trees and shrubs are harmoniously arranged. The selection of plants is made taking into account the climatic conditions and lightness of the territory.
• The next step is to equip the territory with an artificial pond. The source of moisture will fit harmoniously into the environment, will bring romance, will allow the growth of many types of moisture-loving plants (water lilies, lilies). Rest area, gazebo near the pond is an ideal solution to restore strength. According to feng shui the pond should be placed in the lowest place of the site or where there is less vegetation. This will not allow the negative energy of these places to come to the surface.
• Decorative lawn and rock garden decoration is a fresh solution that will serve as a decoration for any area. After all, the lawn is the perfect backdrop for a flower garden – it performs the function of maintaining a certain level of humidity, absorbs noise. As a rule, the mixture for ordinary lawns contains hardy, hardy varieties of grass (meadow-grass, red fescue). Care for it is not difficult, it requires regular mowing every seven to ten days, the necessary irrigation. When creating a stone garden, it is required to take into account the combination of stones with other materials – plants, water, decoration of the house. Decorative lighting will give the compositions a spectacular appearance at any time of day.
• If deadlines are running short, you can use a quick landscaping option – planting large trees. This complex procedure requires preliminary preparation of the root system of trees and takes place with the participation of specialists.
• It is important not to forget that any simple landscaping design needs modern automated irrigation systems, which is taken into account in the design.

Little tricks and simple solutions for simple landscaping design

Specialists often use methods that add zest to the simplest solutions, charge the space of the garden plot with positive energy, contribute to a full-fledged rest. These methods for simple landscaping design can apply and you on your site! Today, at the peak of popularity techniques that can be used in the design or improvement of the territory of the finished garden:

• A sense of naturalness and harmony in the garden can be achieved through winding paths. They seem to have no beginning and no end! This way you can visually extend the boundaries of the plot. Another technique – the path skirts the real objects (lanterns, decorative elements), adding a naturalness and harmony to the landscape.
• Charming rockery or alpine hill, which mimics the landscape of the mountain slopes, it is not difficult to create their own hands. Alpine garden is located on a hilly or uneven terrain. Material for the hill – the stones and flowers, you can pick up according to the general idea. The principle of the combination of plants is to ensure that the flowering all season with the periodic change of colors. Often unpretentious, frost-resistant plants are preferred.
• Achieve a sense of volume and fullness of the garden plot will help the following technique. On the bank of the pond should be placed vertical stone height of about two-thirds of human height. At the foot of the stone is important to plant any flowing plant. In front of this stone or in the pond is set another, similar in outline, vertical stone, about five times smaller than the first. The composition of twin stones attracts attention, induces quiet contemplation, philosophical reflections. If there is no pond on the site, a similar technique can be used, creating a small composition of stones.

You can also order a simple landscaping design service from us in Toronto and throughout the GTA!

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Construction landscaping and garden construction

Construction landscaping is a measure for the improvement of the land to create a zone of comfortable living and recreation. It is a rational transformation of the territory: the proper distribution of buildings, recreation areas, landscaping. Landscape architecture and construction – a complex multi-step work, including the implementation of pre-project analysis of the territory, the creation of sketch design, approval of the master plan, its implementation on the territory.

What garden construction includes

Construction landscaping includes:

• Preparation of the site for construction
• laying of drainage systems
• reconstruction of natural ponds
• modeling of paths and squares
• planting of trees and bushes
• laying out garden lighting
• lawn and flower beds
• establishment of rockeries and alpine rocks
• construction of auto irrigation systems

Features and scope the construction landscaping are determined on the basis of a master plan, which takes into account how extensive changes to be carried out.

At what stages do you order the service construction landscaping

Ordering the services of a landscape designer is needed at the stage of:

1. site acquisition
2. construction planning
3. Right after construction

Before you buy land for construction consulting a designer is necessary, as not every site is suitable for the implementation of the wishes of the client to improve it. A specialist will help to avoid mistakes when buying, which are sometimes very difficult to correct.

Consultation with a specialist before starting work will help to develop a site for construction, so you can implement ideas for landscaping.

However, even after the construction is not too late to take advantage of the advice of a landscape designer who will help create a plan of improvement and landscaping of the site.

Construction landscaping techniques

Landscape design creates with the use of computer programs, allowing you to see in three dimensions the final result of site planning. The design involves a combination of traditional and modern technologies in construction landscaping.

The device garden paths

Paths – the basis of the improvement of the entire plot. The material used to cover paths is limited only by the imagination of customers. In addition to traditional paving tiles are used:

• clinker brick
• wooden elements
• natural stone
• bulk items
• polymeric coating
• concrete slabs

The choice of material for road and construction landscaping depends on the functional load. Particular attention – driveways, places of frequent walking. But do not forget about the material for the foundation of paths: it is also worth choosing based on the functional load of the latter. Geotextile is widely used as a basic base when creating garden paths.

Geosynthetics saves the cost of sand, prevents deformation of the terrain, the subsidence of the path under heavy loads, controls moisture and the work of the drainage system.

Arrangement of water compositions

The high level of development of design technologies allows you to create a variety of objects of landscape and garden construction, as well as to equip natural or artificial ponds. These can be ponds with standing water (pond, swamp, marsh) or flowing (stream, fountain, cascade, waterfall). A small waterfall or pond on the site give the dynamics of the landscape.

The stages of creating water reservoirs are as follows:

• preparation of the pit
• laying of communications and drainage system
• waterproofing
• decorating
• filling with water

To ensure that the water in the pond was always transparent, set the purification system.

Small architectural forms

These objects of mass use (street lamps, flowerpots), decorative objects (sculptures, gazebos, fountains) and platforms for outdoor activities (sandpits, swings, slides). Small decorative forms include garden furniture, fences.

It is impossible to imagine a garden plot without the objects of the construction landscaping, they fill the space, creating a characteristic style.

Stages of construction landscaping

The improvement of the site – a painstaking long work, which requires effort and enthusiasm. Landscaping is not the privilege of wealthy people: even a family with average income can improve their plot.

Stages of construction landscaping Toronto:

• project creation
• site planning according to the ready project
• civil engineering works
• planting

From the project depends on how the homestead will look like after the work is completed. At this stage, choose a style of design (regular, landscape, oriental), make a plan of communications, alternation of buildings with the green area. At the planning stage it is necessary to provide drains for water removal after rain.

Engineering and construction work involves the laying of underground utilities, structures, geodetic support of construction landscaping, construction of buildings, decorative ornamentation of the territory. This is a practical implementation of the created plan.

The final stage – landscaping: arrangement of flower beds, lawns, planting large trees.

How much time will it take to improve the garden plot? It depends on the volume of the order. On average, the implementation of the entire complex of works together with landscaping takes 2 – 5 months.

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Landscape design is a unique and distinctive discipline at the intersection of architecture, biology and aesthetics. By ennobling the space around his home, a person solves utilitarian problems and creates a unique corner for unity with nature. By utilitarian goals we mean the agricultural and ornamental gardening, organizing home comfort, comparable with the comfort of a city apartment, but away from the noise and dust of the metropolis.

Clearly to trace trends in landscape design in 2023, it is difficult enough, at least because there are many areas in the world, representatives of which differently assess the existing trends and set priorities. The proposed trends – just one of the possible views on the ways of development of the art of decoration of territories in the beginning of the year. Here are the trends noted by experts:

Landscape design trends 2023

• Gone are the strict geometric plot planning, symmetrically arranged arbors and flowerbeds, straight paths crossing at a 90-degree angle.
• In planting priority is given to “meadow lawns“, strengthened fashion for decorative perennial grasses such as: cortaderia (pampas grass), miscanthus, blue fescue, setaria Italian, barley mane. They combine unpretentiousness and attractive appearance with a long flowering period. Meadow grasses are used universally – for zoning areas, decorating flower beds and flower beds, design of recreation areas.
• Symmetrically planted conifers, hedges of the same living thus are losing their popularity. Intentionally disorderly groups of bushes and trees or even “neglected” British gardens that grow “by themselves” since time immemorial, like in Baskerville Manor, are trending. Customers are not even embarrassed by the fact that the cost of planting plants in such an intricate and troublesome format is much higher, that it is more difficult to care for them.
• In the place of flat as a tabletop plots with refined alpine rockeries and rockeries comes large-scale geoplasty, carried out with the help of heavy earthmoving equipment. Hills, ravines, large boulders, and other elements of the natural landscape appear on plots. Such projects require designers especially careful calculations, especially in areas with difficult soils and in areas with capricious weather and an abundance of precipitation.
• The natural landscape involves the creation of water features on it, both static (ponds, ornamental swamps) and dynamic (streams, waterfalls). Fluctuating in the breeze water surface or romantically murmuring brook – excellent means of relaxation. Plot with its own hydrosystem should be sufficiently extensive and have a constant source of water. You must exclude waterlogging and control the population of insects, for which standing water is a breeding ground.
• The desire for naturalism is expressed in the rejection of concrete, asphalt and lined with square tiles in favor of ecological decking, backfill with fine crushed stone, expanded clay or mulch. Step paths made of treated stones or stylized rounded tiles are popular.
• Homeowners seem to be gradually taking over the fashion for stationary and portable barbecue stoves in the form of lodges and mini-castles, in the manner of those popular in the southern United States. Among them are coal-fired, wood-fired, gas-fired and electric. The crude quadrangular box mangal on legs is yesterday’s day.

Landscaping and Coronavirus

The coronavirus pandemic also brought original new trends to landscape design in 2021. Self-isolation mode has increased the number of people working remotely from home. Many site owners have decided to set up a summer office in the lap of nature – in a gazebo, a barn, or even a specially equipped cabin in a tree. Why not brighten up the quarantine weekdays with the memories of childhood games in the secret “headquarters”?

A number of customers had a desire to make the area more closed off from outsiders. This manifested itself in the planting of dense vegetation around the perimeter of the plots.

In general, many experts have observed a tendency of owners of country properties to spend more time on recreation, rather than laborious work in an orchard or vegetable greenhouse. The emphasis is on unity with nature and the desire to escape from the cares and complexities of the world around them.

Clever solutions

It’s the 21st century, and it’s no surprise that the latest electronic technology is driving many of the landscape design trends of 2023.  Computer programs and smartphone apps can remotely coordinate automatic garden watering, site lighting, and lawn and greenhouse heating. Artificial soil heating allows not only to extend the beauty until frost and get an early harvest, but also to control the temperature in greenhouses throughout the winter.

    Much attention is paid by designers to the light dynamics of areas. Synchronized and controlled by the application diode lights can change the color and intensity of illumination, the direction of the light flux, creating a unique picture of the garden at night. Modern lighting systems require minimal power consumption, most often they autonomously operate on solar panels.

    Another likely “chip” of the year is a system of fogging, combined with the original LED lighting.

    Among the newest technologies recommended by the designers are renewable energy sources – solar panels and wind turbines. A powerful solar panel is quite expensive, but it will make the country house independent of external power supply.

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Pool landscaping in Toronto

Placing a pool in the backyard is fashionable, as the pool in the landscape design in Toronto will not only become a decoration, but also add to its functionality. This article will talk about the types and device of pools, the way they are placed, as well as the decor and style.

A properly designed and decorated pool has two main functions:

• It is a place for recreation;
• It is a decoration of the landscape.

The main task in the placement of the landscape pool, so it was as close to the natural surroundings. To do this body of water in a certain way decorate, so it was combined with the whole site. Absolutely any site is suitable for the arrangement of the pool, especially if the basis is a ready-made bowl.

Types of pools in backyard landscaping

There are landscape pools of the following types, which depend on the stages of assembly and installation:

• inflatable;
• pool made of plastic;
• prefabricated;
• stationary;
• indoor pool.

Developing a home landscape design project with a pool, style experts prefer stationary models, as their functionality is wider (connecting devices for water purification, water heating, as well as hydromassage functions).

Stationary pool can be installed by applying the following methods:

• Prepare an excavation according to the size and dig a ready-made polypropylene bowl there, fixing it on concrete. Then heat insulate it.
• Bottom and sides of the bowl are concreted and covered with tiles.

The advantage of such pools for landscaping is that their shape has no restrictions, in addition, they are durable and can serve 10 years or more. Such a design will not rise above the surface and will not be visible, so it will not damage the appearance of the site.

Of the disadvantages can be distinguished:

• the duration of installation work;
• installation is impossible without prior preparation;
• cost pool landscaping.

Prefabricated frame pool can be in the form of a circle, rectangle, square, oval or figure eight. This type is durable, as it has excellent rigidity.

How to choose the perfect location for a swimming pool in the landscape?

• Many backyard owners who have a sunny backyard will find it a good choice to have a pool to refresh themselves during a hot, summer day.
• The surface should be chosen open and flat.
• It is not recommended to install the pool close to trees, shrubs and other plants, as everything that will fall from them will fall into the water and thus clog it. In addition, the crowns of trees will create unnecessary shade, preventing the water from heating to the desired temperature.
• If the site is uneven, you need to level it by creating a slight slope in order to organize the water drainage.
• It is important when choosing a location for the pool to determine where the groundwater runs. They must run deep to avoid rising water levels and damage to the bowl.
• The closer the pool will be located to the house, the easier it will be to connect to it communications, which will save a lot of money.

Stages of pool construction works

1. Determine your purpose. If the structure is intended for decorative purposes, it can not be too deep. If it is used in the future for swimming and recreation, you need to dig a deeper foundation pit (1.5 to 2 meters). If there are small children in the family, the best option would be to divide the pool into 2 halves: a shallow children’s area and a deep adult.
2. Formation of the pit begins after determining all the dimensions of the future place for swimming. The excavation should be deeper by half a meter than the height of the bowl. This is necessary to equip the “cushion”, which consists of a mixture of crushed stone and sand (about 20 cm). The layer is tamped and on it lay a grid of metal and pour the concrete mortar.
3. Bottom and side walls are lined with geotextile and fixed with styrofoam plates. Then insulate it with polyethylene film. 4.
4. When the base is ready, you need to bring it sewer and water mains, as well as to think and build a system of filtration, purification and water heating. If desired, you can make electricity to provide the pool light.
5. Since the bowl is quite heavy, it is better to install it, using a crane.
6. After installing the bowl, connect the lines of communication to it, fix on the pipes and lines protective sleeves.
7. All the voids formed between the pit and the bowls are filled with concrete mix, pouring it, leisurely, in portions of 20 cm. At the same time as the concrete is gradually poured into the bowl of water, so that the concrete does not deform the plastic later. All layers of concrete mortar must be well dried.
8. Upon completion of the concrete pouring and drying of the top layer is necessary to make sprinkling of joints with sand.

Decorating around pool

After installation is complete, proceed to the most enjoyable stage – landscaping pool. The areas around it are lined with natural stone, small or large pebbles, tiles. Around the edges are placed plants in large pots or vases, planted in flowerbeds.

A new popular trend in backyard landscape design is the landscaped pool. Its main task is to introduce aesthetics, beauty in the landscape of the whole area. It differs in that it does not stand out from nature, as if imitating a natural body of water. To achieve this, the edge of the pool is decorated with pebbles, large stones, mosaic. Along the edges are placed plants that are well tolerant of moisture.

You can equip the “coastal zone” with decking made of decking boards, arrange around deckchairs, umbrellas and tables, and build a gazebo. The decking should be elevated above the reservoir, and a wide wooden staircase should be laid to the water. Boards are first treated with a special composition that protects against moisture. If there is no possibility to equip a wooden deck, then as an alternative a concrete surface will do.

It is important to pay attention to lighting. It can be done “at a minimum” or be placed throughout the composition and create a special atmosphere in the homestead territory. Well-designed landscape design with a swimming pool can bring a lot of positive emotions.

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Mulching – types of mulch and features

Growing all kinds of crops in the garden and vegetable garden it is important to protect them from diseases and pests. Mulch is an excellent solution to this issue. Figuring out what mulching is, it is a layer of organic or industrial materials with which the gardener covers the soil, where berry bushes, trees or vegetables grow, also mulch in Toronto can be used for decorative purposes. More details about the types and methods of mulching will be discussed below.

What is mulch and what is it for?

The gardener must necessarily know how and with what to mulch the soil, because this is the way to a quality and rich harvest.

This special technology allows you to protect plants from weeds and diseases. As a mulch can act as a variety of materials, the structure of which allows you to use them to cover the soil. In addition to the fact that mulch is often used for decorative purposes, it can also provide:

• Protecting the roots, thanks to the preservation of the right indicator of moisture and acidity in the soil;
• Maintaining the temperature in the soil, as well as the nutrient environment;
• Care during sudden drops in temperature;
• protection against weeds.

    A useful feature of properly selected mulch is also the fact that it does not harden and thus does not form a hard crust, allowing plants to develop.

It is worth noting that mulch, depending on the material selected for this procedure, can be organic and inorganic. We will tell you about each option, so that the gardener can decide for himself, from what he wants to make mulch for his plot.

Types of organic mulch

Organic mulch, as its name makes clear, is the use of materials of organic origin. Usually it is what remains after standard agro-technical activities. Let us describe in detail the most popular and widely used options.

Wood chips for garden

Wood chips for garden are excellent for mulching garden shrubs, for example, currants or raspberries, as well as those places in the garden, which are rarely subject to recultivation and other treatments. The fact is that such mulch finally decomposes in about a year and a half to two years. This should be taken into account, so as not to encounter problems when working out the plot in the future.

If it was decided to make mulch wood chips for garden, it should be understood that such material can develop a lack of nitrogen in the soil, because wood in the process of decomposition absorbs this substance from the soil. Avoid nitrogen starvation can be quite simple way. You need to fertilize the soil with fertilizer before laying the material.

    Please note: sawdust, which has been stored in the corner of the garden for a long time, most likely has time to “sour”, because in the depths of the heap there is certainly a lack of oxygen. Such material is categorically not suitable for mulching beds, because it will not only not bring the plants benefits, but also can cause harm. In this case, the sawdust must be pre-spread in a thin layer and give them a good drying.

A mulch of sawdust and wood chips for sale is excellent in the fight against slugs. The latter prefer smooth and well-moistened surfaces, in connection with which wood material will not be attractive to them.

Straw mulch

Straw mulching is a very common option.  It is recommended to lay this material with a layer of about 15 centimeters thick. It should be understood that such mulch will not interfere with the further development of plants, because very soon the straw will settle down at least 7-8 cm.

Soil under garlic, blackberries, strawberries, and basil can also be covered with this material.

Pine bark mulch

Make mulch with your own hands from the bark is not difficult at all, the main thing is to have access to conifers.  Bark can repel water, which is the reason for its long decomposition. It is best to use bark for garden trees and shrubs.

    Bark taken from coniferous tree species should not be used for tomato mulching purposes. The fact is that aromatic volatile elements, which are emitted by such a material, will be detrimental to tomatoes.

Among other things, the bark looks very attractive as mulch. Many gardeners prefer to use its decorative properties, mulching flowerbeds. Such plot development will not only be useful, but also beautiful. Modern designers are increasingly advised to use pine bark mulch in the design of the garden.

Pine needles

Mulching with pine needles is very liked by strawberries, blueberries and eggplants. Despite the fact that some gardeners refuse such material, as they believe that the needles oxidize the soil, yet it has been proven by experience that covering the bed with a 7-cm layer of pine needles will only have a positive effect on the plants. Even if you mulch the same beds two years in a row, the acidity of the soil will not change much. Mulching strawberries with needles should be carried out in autumn.

It is worth remembering again about the decorative properties of mulch. Pine needles are often mulched flowers in flowerbeds, using the material as a decoration. Additionally, colorful pine needles and crushed pine cones can be used.

Fallen leaves

Mulching the soil in the fall is also often carried out with fallen leaves. Almost any leaves will do, but some gardeners prefer the leaves of individual plantings, for example, a walnut tree.

It should be understood that the leaves in the process of decomposition turn into a very valuable organic fertilizer. They contain potassium, calcium, phosphorus, nitrogen, etc. Such elements work very well to improve the quality of growth and development of crops.

    An interesting experience was conducted in one of the forestry units. Employees removed natural forest litter from fallen leaves in a certain area and repeated this for several years. As a result, the growth of stands in the forest was reduced by about 20%. It took twice as long to bring the forest floor back to its original state and thereby restore the growth of new trees.

Fallen leaves can be used to mulch cabbage, beans, peppers, tomatoes and eggplants. It is important to do this after the soil has had a chance to warm up.

The foliage material can also be used in flower beds. In case of strong frosts this product will perfectly protect the root system, and as soon as the first spring heat comes, the bulbs will not be able to sprout quickly, thus they will be safe from possible repeated frosts.

Moss

This material is suitable only for areas with non-acidic soil, because moss can increase the level of acidity.

It is forbidden to use moss as a mulch for strawberries and strawberries, because these berry plants will simply rot under it. But for blueberries, raspberries, radishes and potatoes, moss will be an excellent mulch.

Such material can also mulch roses, azaleas and some other flowers without fear. Many gardeners also cover pears and apples with this mulch. Moss tends to collect excess moisture from the soil, thus protecting trees from overwatering, but in a period of drought, the same moisture will give back. In addition, the discussed material is an excellent antiseptic.

Inorganic mulch

Mulching with inorganic materials consists in covering a site with rocks or products of industrial production. Such mulch protects the soil well, but, of course, does not perform the additional function of fertilizer.

In general, inorganic mulch can be classified as follows:

• Film (more often black, but sometimes colored), cardboard and paper;
• Stones – pebbles, gravel, gravel, etc;
• expanded clay.

The second and third types from the list are often used for decorative purposes, as they perfectly decorate landscape and garden compositions. Today you can find stones of different colors on sale, which allows you to realize any design fantasy.

As for the film, it is good at retaining moisture in the soil. But at the same time, this material can be used only once, as by the next year it will already be unusable. Those who decide to use the film for mulching, should be aware of a number of points, which they will probably have to deal with:

• Watering. You need to think about how the plants will be moistened – by dripping or through holes in the cover;
• Slugs. They can collect under the foil, so this too will need to be dealt with;
• Heat. You should be aware of the ability of film-covered plants to tolerate overheating, which is enhanced by the greenhouse effect under the film.

    You can extend the life of the film by covering it additionally with a thin layer of straw or hay.

The film is often used as mulch in alpinaries. It does not allow weeds to sprout. But in order not to spoil the aesthetic appearance of the compositions, decorative stones are placed on top of it.

Today textile materials (geotextiles), which are made on the basis of polypropylene fiber, are very popular among gardeners. Such a material is cheap, but of high quality. It is able to absorb the sun’s rays and does not allow weeds to sprout on the site.

Film for mulching

Such a film should be laid on the bed, and at the edges to fix with staples made from thick, strong wire. You can also use for its fixing ordinary boards or the soil itself, which should be poured on the edges.

In order to make the planting of vegetable crops, you will need to make small notches in the form of a cross or slits directly in the place of planting. Next, you need to dig a hole and plant the plant itself. Through the slits should be abundantly watered the bed.

If the film mulch was covered with plants-perennials, such as strawberries, then at the end of the season it is not necessary to remove the film from the bed at all. Such inorganic mulch can stay there as long as the strawberries will grow, which is about 3-4 years. But it is necessary not to forget to make fertilizers in the soil, because the film does not decompose, and therefore, as a fertilizer can not work. It is best to introduce humus into the soil before mulching of this kind.

    Despite the fact that the film helps to retain moisture in the soil for a long time, it is still necessary to water the area periodically. Natural moisture in the form of rains or fog in this case is excluded, so about watering should always be remembered.

Conclusion

To summarize, it is worth once again noting the importance and usefulness of such an event as mulching in Toronto. Each gardener can choose the material to cover the site to his taste. This will noticeably simplify the care of plants, as well as significantly increase yields.

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Small patio – main features

The patio is a space that will help you enjoy the countryside outdoors. It is a modern corner of tranquility in the backyard of your property. The tendency to create patios came to us from the Mediterranean countries. They are especially popular in Spain, but they are just as popular in Canada.

What are the advantages of creating a patio on the plot?

• Such an open space in the countryside will become a good recreation area without serious financial investments.
• Patio will remind you that a country house is needed first and foremost for recreation, not for endless planting and subsequent maintenance.
• Patio will be the center of family and friendly gatherings, a real island of relaxation together.
• If you combine the patio area with the creation of a fire source, in addition to relaxing, it will also become an area for family meals and dinners.

Where should you start if you’re thinking about creating a patio? In this article, we will give you 8 basic recommendations that will help you go from idea to implementation.

1. Choosing a location

Choosing a place for a patio should start with determining its function. Will it be a place for guests and gatherings until late at night? Then you need a large space, a source of fire, lighting and a large seating area.

Or is it a quiet little corner, hidden from prying eyes for two? In that case it could be a small area with some additional fencing.

Or maybe it’s a place for a family dinner by the fire. Then the size of the patio area will depend on the number of family members and the nature of the pastime.

Or maybe it’s a place to hang out with friends and watch soccer or baseball games? You can install a projector, put comfortable chairs and a barbecue.

2. Choosing the shape of the patio

There are 2 basic concepts for a patio area: as an extension of the house or as a separate area from the house on its own.

If you choose the first option, it should be related to the house stylistically. Often patios are made in the backyard, hidden from view, but there are exceptions.

If a patio extension of the house is chosen, a square or rectangular shape will blend with most homes. It blends well with most suburban homes and doesn’t complicate the creation of this area.

But that doesn’t mean it’s the only solution.

The patio can be multi-level, two-story, unusual irregular shape and with quirky curves. If you have chosen a non-standard solution, it is better to think about this concept together with the designer.

In the case of the second solution, you can make a patio at a significant distance from the main structures. An independent patio area can be built on the shore of a real or artificial pond, in a green garden, surrounded by green trees and shrubs.

3. Making a marking and preparing the base

The most important condition is to choose a level site.

Once you have chosen a suitable place on the site, make its markings. After marking the area, we proceed to the leveling of the surface of this area and prepare the base.

The base of the future patio can serve:

• gravel + sand

This is a soft type of foundation. It will cost less than concrete and is not inferior to it. It will be the best choice for the patio area.

• concrete

This is a hard type foundation. It requires more labor and financial costs. It is used for problematic soils on the site, as well as for areas with high loads. The latter certainly does not apply to the patio area.

Then a cement-sand mixture is laid on the base, on which the tiles themselves are then laid.

4. Choosing the shape of the tiles

The shape of the tiles will directly depend on the chosen shape and area of the future patio area.

If the shape of the future patio is radiused, you can choose a circular shape of tiles, so you simplify the process of laying and minimize the trimming of the material. This doesn’t mean that you can’t choose a straight shape in this case, just that there will be more trimming. It will not be superfluous to add edging to visually give the circular area completeness.

If the future space will be rectangular or square, then the shape we choose is straight. If the patio area is expected to be large, then you can choose a large form of detail tiles. On a small area, a classic shape and similar shapes with small detail sizes look good.

5. Determining the type of patio

Patios can be open or enclosed.

An outdoor patio would be a good solution if the property already has a terrace or pergola with a roof and protection from the wind. In that case, you can make the patio open and in case of bad weather, take shelter in other structures.

An enclosed patio is the right choice if it is the only such structure for recreation on the site.

In that case, it is better to protect yourself from possible bad weather and think through barriers against wind and rain. It is not necessary to make them completely closed, air-permeable solutions will also do. Better to be puzzled about the design of the roof, or the device of the canopy to protect the recreation area from drips of rain or the scorching afternoon sun.

6. Create a source of heat

By creating a fire bowl in this area, you can spend not only warm summer days there, but also cozy, wrapped in a plaid in the fall and spring.

If this area was glazed, you can continue to use it even in winter.

The fire bowl can be done with the same tiles as the main area.

This way, it fits in well with the overall patio concept.

An outdoor fireplace will also add warmth and coziness to the space.

It is important to remember that an outdoor fireplace is a large stationary source of heat, so it is suitable only for large patios. In the case of small and medium-sized patios, it is better to be limited to a fire bowl.

The second point when choosing a fireplace: it will be the heart of the entire patio. So first think about the fireplace area, and then around it line up the rest of the filling of this area.

7. Installing the lighting

If a roof has been designed, this greatly simplifies the issue of lighting.

You can install sconces, pendant lights, and other electrical lighting options.

If you have chosen a patio area without a roof, this does not mean that you have to sit in the dark.

Wireless, self-contained sources will serve as lighting in such a case. Lights, lights, garlands, working on batteries and batteries will be a good alternative.

Also no one canceled the fire as a source of light: candle lights can brighten up your evening with a warm glow.

Special street lights can be installed along the contour of the patio and along the approach paths. Soft light directed upwards will give coziness and allow you to comfortably walk along the paths in the dark.

8. Consider the landscaping

By planting a green hedge, shrubs or small trees, you can make the patio area even more cozy and picturesque.

In the case of an outdoor patio, you can put up trellis walls and see them with climbing plants. Grapes, clematis, creeper, climbing rose, etc. will do the trick.

By planting an evergreen hedge, you can create additional protection from the wind and prying eyes.

On an enclosed patio, you can put plants in tubs or hang flower pots.

The final and nicest touch is to choose the right furniture and trim for the patio. For enclosed patios, furniture made of natural solid wood is well suited. Garden furniture for outdoor areas can be chosen from artificial or natural rattan.

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Let’s say at once: to fashionable trends in landscape design should be treated with caution.

Sometimes it takes years before the garden acquires the look that the designer depicted in the sketches. But even if it only takes a few weeks or months to decorate an area, it’s worth asking yourself whether the design will go out of style by next year and how much time, effort and money will have to be spent to update it.

That’s why we at Captain Handy recommend not chasing fashionable new products in landscape design in 2021, but choosing something that will be in trend for a long time to come. That’s what we’ll talk about.

Naturalness

The main landscape design trend in 2021 is closeness to nature, and this trend won’t go out of fashion for a long time. People are tired of the fast pace of life and want to enjoy peace and tranquility in the park and on their property. Designers suggest abandoning the “framing of nature”.

Losing relevance perfectly trimmed trees and shrubs of complex pretentious forms, an abundance of wrought iron fences, partitions, etc., displacement of greenery by paths, stones, pergolas and other elements. Modern trends in landscape design – adding meadow lawns and wildflowers, the rejection of strict geometric shapes in the planning of paths and flower beds, chaotic seeding (of course, the chaos should be created wisely), replacement of artificial fences and partitions with hedges.

The general rule: the more the presence of wildlife in the garden is felt, the better.

Lighting in landscape design

Fashionable landscape design should include lighting that:

• Does not draw attention to itself, but complements the plants in a harmonious way;
• adjustable point: by changing the brightness and hue for individual lamps, you can visually highlight some parts of the garden, to create an interesting light pattern;
• quickly adjusted if necessary: a good choice would be portable solar-powered lights.

Since naturalness and simplicity are in fashion, preference should be given to lighting fixtures with a concise modern design, without fussy elements.

Furniture in landscape design

A new trend in landscape design in 2021 is garden furniture that resembles home furniture as much as possible. In essence, the site should become an extension of the interior.

“Furniture” trends in landscape design:

• Moisture-resistant upholstery. It is good, if it creates the feeling that you have a regular upholstered furniture in front of you.
• Laconic design, rounded shapes, a minimum of decor.
• Restrained natural colors: muted green, blue, sand, beige, etc.
• Rough texture. Matte, rough surfaces instead of glossy and smooth.

Of course, garden furniture should be unpretentious in maintenance and very reliable. Practicality, not luxury, comes first.

Vertical gardening

About the new trend in landscape design – replacing metal and wooden fences and partitions with hedges – we spoke above. In addition, you can:

• Decorate walls with pots with plants;
• create green screens;
• make cascades from hanging planters;
• Braid roofs, walls of gazebos, terraces, etc. with climbing plants.

Vertical gardening helps to create volume and is especially successful in the design of a small area.

Water features

The splash and murmur of the water relaxes and soothes, increases the feeling of unity with nature, so it is desirable to add water features even in areas where there is little free space. Do not necessarily break a big pond – enough small fountain, brook, miniature waterfall or even a small bathtub for birds.

Remember that water objects can be dynamic (waterfalls, cascades, fountains) and static (decorative wetlands, ponds). In fashionable trends in landscape design fit both options: the design of the site take into account the purpose of the different zones and the wishes of the customer.

Functionality

New in landscape design is the functionality of the garden. First, you can organize a small vegetable garden, even if only aromatic herbs will grow there. Herbs, vegetables, fruits, grown on their own land, now are very highly valued. Secondly, in fashion plants and flowers that not only decorate the area, but also perform other functions: for example, help to create a shady corner for relaxing, attracting bees and butterflies, etc.

Note: The list of landscape design trends for 2021 includes the most eco-friendly garden care possible. Recommend to your friends to give up toxic chemicals, use natural fertilizers, etc. Try to choose plants that are resistant to the climate of the region and do not require complex expensive care.

Not everyone has time for regular pruning, weeding and other work, which is why low-maintenance gardens are trending.

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Comfortable rest on a picturesque site will please any wealthy person. But the beauty and convenience will not appear on their own. You will have to spend time, make efforts for landscaping and arrangement of the territory to get a beautiful, functional homestead. If you do not have the necessary knowledge, it is better to invite professionals who will do a full service landscaping in Toronto.

With what to start landscaping?

Works on the full landscaping of the territory of a private house, start with finding the most shady and sunny places.  In addition, the orientation in the space of the territory, all this is reflected in the draft landscape design. The project plan not only takes into account the weather conditions of the region, but also takes the soil analysis and even prepare the wind rose.

Explore the topography, while taking notes, photographs to plan the necessary changes to all the rises and falls in the area.

Then determine the basic type, acidity, fertility of the soil, it depends on the possible set of plants on the site. Check the moisture content of the soil, the height of the location of groundwater, which will allow to make the correct drainage system.

After this, begin preparations for full service landscaping:

• Before starting landscaping, the topography is corrected;
• The soil is fed with mineral fertilizers, organics if necessary;
• Clay soil must be lightened, sand and peat mixture, straw manure or decomposed sawdust are added;
• Organize drainage and water supply;
• It is desirable to buy grasses that can grow under trees;
• Hedges, flowerbeds should be formed so that they fit the adopted style, so as not to violate the theme of the landscape.

Warning. At higher elevations, the soil will quickly evaporate moisture, the plants will not have enough of it. In lowlands, on the contrary, the moisture will accumulate, so the roots can rot.

Types of full service landscaping company

When the topography will be prepared, it is necessary to perform zoning, that is – to determine the places where certain plants will be located.

Usually the area near the house is divided into 3 zones (types):

• Front yard;
• back yard;
• Intermediate.

Back yard landscaping

If the site is near a residential house, planted with cultures of the choice of the owner, you can use your imagination, but you need to harmoniously connect the plants on the borders of paths, flower beds and flower beds. Climbing plants are planted near arches, pillars, frame the facade of the house. You can place them along the fences, buildings, they will create shade in the gazebo that in the complex and will represent the full service landscaping.

All services landscaping will be boring without plants in vases.  They luxuriously descend from hanging baskets or vases they can even be installed on the canopy.

Practical! You can create small compositions from flowers in pots. They will be so convenient to take care of them, modern containers equipped with small wheels allow you to plant your favorite plants and quickly change the landscape if necessary.

Intermediate landscaping

The perimeter is often fenced with a fence or “hedge”, they can reliably separate the homestead from the outside space. This is done using shrubs or wicker plants, sometimes densely planted low trees.

Front yard landscaping

This work involves visually noticeable places. These include recreational areas, the place near the entrance, in front of the windows of the house. In this type of landscaping, a properly formed lawn is very important. It is combined with a rockery or an alpine hill.

It depends on where the lawn is located, which grasses are the best to choose. If it will grow in the shade, it is necessary to choose the seeds of grasses well developing without direct sunlight. Ordinary plants will not work, the lawn will get uneven, will grow for a long time.

 There are lawn grasses that can withstand physical stress or drought. Be sure to prepare a reliable irrigation and drainage system. Full service landscaping can’t do without a lawn.

Effectively look “windows” – a kind of openings in the concreted or paved areas. Here you can plant perennials with tracery beautiful foliage.  Near curbs, paths place trimmed boxwood, openwork roses.

Rarely can you find a completely flat area, for this reason you need to think in advance how to eliminate the disadvantages of the available relief, for this reason are good full service landscaping company. On the flattest places it is better to erect a residential building, outbuildings.

If there is a small high hill, it is easy to make an alpine hill. In the lowlands it is better to plant water-loving plants, place a fountain or make a pond. The ravine “cut” your homestead, you can turn it into a real or dry stream, and across it in a convenient place to throw a bridge.

Also, if you do not want to think about all the wisdom of combinations and landscaping systems, then you should contact the company “Captain Handy”. Captain Handy is a full service landscaping company near me in GTA.

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