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Widowmaker Tree Removal: How to Identify and Handle Safely

Tree removal is a dangerous job, especially if you’re not trained and knowledgeable to do so. Aside from the massive and heavy characteristic of trees, another factor that makes tree removal risky is the presence of broken and hanging limbs. These dislodged tree branches are dangerous because they can damage properties and cause injuries and death to people.

Eucalyptus or Gum tree has rightfully earned the nickname widowmaker. This tree is notorious for losing its limbs to preserve its overall wellness when there is a drought or inadequate water supply. As a result, fallen branches cause accidents to people. Broken Gum tree limbs have also caused the deaths of many tree loppers, causing their wives to become widows

Identifying Widowmaker Trees

A wide range of Eucalyptus tree species is native to Australia. This tree can reach a height of 40 metres or higher, which makes the impact of falling tree limbs stronger and more deadly. Another distinctive feature of eucalyptus trees includes its sickle-shaped leaves that are dark green. These leaves are covered in oil glands that release the characteristic menthol, peppermint, or lemon scent.

Aside from Eucalypts, other trees can also be widowmakers when they have broken or suspended branches. These hanging tree limbs can potentially cause deaths when they fall. However, widowmakers may be difficult to detect, especially in thick tree covers. Here are some widowmaker qualities to watch out for:

Safety Around Widowmaker Trees

It is dangerous to go near widowmaker trees. Thus, the best way to deal with them is to avoid them. Here are a few measures on how you can be safe around widowmaker trees.

Safe Widowmaker Tree Removal

Due to the dangers posed by widowmaker trees. It is best to let the professionals handle them. They have the right tools and equipment to remove and prune widowmaker trees. Moreover, they are also trained to deal with these deadly trees in the safest manner possible. Here are some techniques from an arborist on how you can handle widowmaker trees safely:

Secure the area

Part of ensuring safety while removing a widowmaker tree is to make sure that no other people are in the area. Thus, it’s best to restrict the area to avoid collateral damage and to minimise accidents. Moreover, it’s best if only the people who are working on the tree are in the restricted area, and they should be wearing safety gears.

Do a rain check, literally

Check the weather before working on widowmaker trees. It’s risky to even go near them when it’s windy, raining, or snowing since these conditions can hasten the falling of a widowmaker tree or branch.

Wear protective equipment

Keep yourself protected from falling tree branches by wearing protective and safety gears like a hard hat and gloves. 

Scan the canopy

Do a quick check on the canopy to spot widowmaker branches. When you find them, carefully remove them first before working on the whole tree. 

Work in late fall to early winter

Late autumn to early winter is arguably the best time to work around widowmaker trees. During this season, deciduous trees don’t have leaves anymore so it’s easier to remove and prune widowmaker branches because you can easily identify them.

Tree Removal Services in Sydney

Trees Down Under is one of the most reliable tree removal companies in Sydney. No matter how big the tree is or how dangerous and difficult it is to remove, we can handle it. You can trust us to safely deal with all the risks posed by widowmaker trees. Our team of trained arborists possess the right tools and skills to keep everyone safe.

We are fully aware of how unsafe it is to work around widowmaker trees. That’s why here at Trees Down Under, we don’t only aim for quality and efficiency, we also strive for safety through careful and systematic tree removal services. We also offer tree pruning to minimise the risks caused by broken and dislodged tree limbs.
Need emergency tree removal services? Contact us anytime at 0475 463 597, and we’ll respond quickly.

Tree Removal Laws in NSW

There are many reasons why you would want to remove a tree. The tree could be dying, blocking the way for construction, or posing risks of injuries and damage to properties. Although it may be tempting to cut down trees on your property immediately, you must proceed with caution. Thoughtless tree removal in Australia could cost you a significant amount of money for fines. 

The local council of NSW protects trees in the region through tree removal laws stated in the state’s Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and the Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). Thus, before you can cut down trees, you must first obtain a permit and authorisation from the local council. Familiarising yourself with the following laws can also assist you with tree cutting.

Protected Trees

NSW recognises several tree species protected. The cities in NSW consider the significance of trees in terms of:

The local council of NSW are strict when it comes to removing and pruning trees that they listed as significant and protected. You may not even cut down trees found in your yard unless you’ve obtained the permission from the local council. Additionally, the board may also ask you to provide them with compelling reasons why you should remove the tree.

Some tree species listed in NSW’s Register of Significant Trees are:

Exempt Trees

In general, you can remove unprotected trees at your will. However, they should have a height and foliage size of at least 5 metres and a trunk diameter of at least 300 mm. You can remove trees that meet these criteria even without a council permit. 

You are also exempted from obtaining council permit if you’re cutting down tree species that are invasive and considered pests. Moreover, these trees do not need to match the criteria mentioned above for you to remove them. 

Although there are exempt trees, you may still get into trouble if you’re uncertain of the tree species you want to remove. Hence, you may want to read up on the registry of significant trees in NSW or ask the help of professionals to be sure.

10/50 Vegetation Rule

The 10/50 law aims to protect people living within 100 metres of bushland. These areas are prone to catch fire, especially during scorching weathers. Thus, if you live or have a property in bushfire-prone zones, you can clear trees and vegetation that are within 10 to 50 metres from the outermost wall of your home or building. You can do so without asking for permission from the local government. However, there are still conditions.

Your method of cutting trees and vegetation should not alter the profile of the soil underneath. The local council does not permit bulldozing, ploughing, and burning as a form of clearing practice. If your land is on a slope, you are not covered by the 10/50 Vegetation Clearing Rule because of the high erosion in your area. You cannot cut trees in sloping lands because they play a significant role in erosion control. 

Penalties For Removing Significant Trees

If you’ve had a protected tree removed without the approval of the local council, the local court may charge you a maximum fine of $110,000. On the other hand, you may need to pay up to $1.1 million in the Land and Environment Court. 

Tree Removal Solutions in Sydney

You can always do tree removal by yourself. However, nothing beats the work of professional tree fellers. Tree removal experts possess the skills, knowledge, and experience to finish the job safely and efficiently. Moreover, they also have the proper tools and equipment to do the job right and fast.

Our workers here at Trees Down Under have all of these and more. Our team of trained tree fellers maintain the dedication to every work that we do. It is our goal to provide you with quality and safe tree removal services. Aside from that, we also offer garden and landscape services, green waste removal, and mulching. Trees Down Under remains your reliable service provider for your garden and tree needs.

Need emergency tree removal services? Contact us anytime at 0475 463 597, and we’ll be right where you need us to be.

Types of Autumn Trees in NSW

The autumn season is one of the best times to visit NSW. We’re not just talking about the crisp air and fair weather. We’re talking about the trees, shrubs, vines, and vegetation that turn the region almost entirely into bright and vivid colours. That’s the spectacular scenery you picture in your mind when you think of autumn. 

Autumn in NSW falls from March to May. During this period, the foliage of autumn trees and plants turn into shades of red, orange, yellow, pink, purple, and brown. These trees are deciduous trees that lose their leaves every year after they change colours. Several deciduous trees put on a breathtaking autumn display in NSW. Spot the following trees when you stroll around in NSW:

Magnolia

The deciduous species of Magnolia tree is one of the favourites when it comes to autumn sightseeing. Deciduous Magnolia can resist low temperatures and have an attractive form. Its foliage naturally changes colour and sheds in autumn to prepare the blooming of the tree in the following winter season. 

Japanese Maple

The Japanese Maple tree has a vibrant fire-like foliage in the autumn. Each leaf turns into multi-colours with red, yellow, and orange blending together. The Japanese Maple is a small tree that can grow up to 10 to 15 feet tall and 5 to 7 feet wide. Aside from being a stunning attraction in the fall, Japanese Maple is also a pleasant sight in the spring when its pink flowers bloom.

Claret Ash

The Claret Ash is another favourite of autumn-lovers in NSW. The leaves of Claret Ash gives off a wine to a deep purple colour in fall. The tree is fast-growing, especially in the temperate parts of the region like Sydney. Claret Ash is also drought-tolerant and can grow in any soil type. It can reach a height of about 20 metres.

Chinese Pistachio

This small tree has a maximum height of 8 metres. Despite its stature, Chinese Pistachio is a striking deciduous tree in the fall with intense yellow, orange and scarlet canopy, making it a great addition to gardens and street sides. 

Chinese Tallow Tree

Chinese Tallow Tree is one of the best providers of vibrant colours in warmer areas of NSW. The autumn leaves of this tree are yellow, orange and burgundy-coloured. Chinese Tallow tree is tolerant of drought and adaptable to any type of soil. It has a medium height and can grow to around 8 to 10 metres tall. 

Tupelo

Tupelo trees turn bright scarlet in autumn from their dark green foliage. This tree can grow to around 10 metres tall. Tupelo has characteristic dark stems and branches that accentuate the warm hues of red, yellow, orange, and scarlet foliage.

Liquidambar

Another fast-growing autumn tree in NSW is Liquidambars. This large tree can grow about 30 metres in height and 10 metres in width. It is one of the most adaptable deciduous trees. Liquidambar, or sweet gum, turns scarlet, orange, yellow, and crimson in fall. This tree can grow in any kind of soil, but it should have ample space and deep root foundation.

Ginkgo 

The fan-shaped leaves of the Ginkgo tree put on a spectacular scenery in autumn when they turn into bright yellow. This tree is slow-growing and large. It can reach a height of 30 metres and is best planted in loam or clay soils so that it can deeply root and have a strong foundation.

Flowering Cherry

While Cherry Blossoms are best known for their flowers in the spring, this tree is also a famous deciduous tree in autumn. Flowering Cherry offers autumn enthusiasts with a breathtaking display of yellow, orange, and crimson-coloured foliage. 

Where should I head in the Autumn?

Also known as the “colour city,” Orange is one of the most highly recommended places to visit in NSW. Only three hours away from Sydney, this city is worth visiting because of the high volume of deciduous trees that paint the city red, orange, and yellow. Travelling to Orange city is an excellent experience for autumn lovers due to the vivid warm colours provided by the autumn trees lining the main roads of the city.

Garden and Tree Services in Sydney

The lovely colours of deciduous trees are also a sight to behold in Sydney. Several favourite autumn spots are available in the Sydney area like in the Royal Botanic Gardens, Auburn Botanic Garden, Centennial Parklands, and The Rumsey Heritage Rose Garden where autumn trees are abundant.

However, it’s also possible to have that autumn view right in your backyard. Trees Down Under can help you have that magnificent autumn scenery without travelling hours from your home. Our team of dedicated landscapers and tree experts can help you with your tree and garden needs. Moreover, we also provide green waste removal to deal with all the fallen leaves in your yard. 

Trees Down Under is your trusted and reliable company to provide quality garden and tree solutions. Contact us now at 0475 463 597 to get a free quote.

Why Do You Need Possum Banding for Your Trees

Possums are cute furry animals that you do not want inside your house nor in your yard. You won’t even think of having them as pets since Australian laws forbid trapping wildlife. So, how do you deal with these little creatures when they start pestering your peaceful home? Trees Down Under has got your back.

The Problem with Possums

The common brushtail possum is the most prevalent marsupial in Australia. This animal is a common sight even to city-dwellers because of their ability to adapt to natural and human-made environments. This high adaptability has a toll on Australian homeowners. Originally, possums nest in tree hollows in the forest. But, they have found their way into ceilings and hollow spaces of houses and buildings and sought refuge in those areas since. 

Apart from lurking inside the house, possums can also cause significant damages to trees and plants in your yard. This animal mainly eats leaves, fruits, vegetables, and flowers, so they might as well feast on the foliage and produce that your garden and trees have to offer. You would understand the frustration if you ever had such uninvited pests in your place. 

With the National Parks and Wildlife Act, the antics of possums seem unstoppable. The law prohibits killing and endangering possums unless you have a permit to do so. What then can you do to protect your home and trees? The answer is possum banding.

What is Possum Banding?

Possum banding is a measure to keep possums out of your trees’ foliage and out of your house. It also prevents possums from grazing on the healthy leaves and fruits of your trees. 

Possum banding involves limiting possum access from nearby trees, buildings, posts, and other constructions by pruning branches or adding possum band to tree limbs. Isolating your trees from neighbouring structures ensures that possums won’t have any more passageways other than the trunk. Then, you’ll cover the main stem with a possum band made of polycarbonate or colour bond to eliminate the last route to the treetop.

Why you Need Possum Banding for your Trees?

Because of possums’ ability to climb trees and destroy the lush canopy overhead, possum banding is a necessary addition for your trees. Here’s why:

Maintains Healthy Condition of Your Trees

One of the main reasons why you need possum banding for your trees is to keep the healthy condition of trees in your yard. Because possum banding prevents possums from accessing the foliage of your trees and feeding on the leaves, fruits, and flowers, you won’t worry about your trees losing any more leaves.

Prevents Grazing of Other Animals

Possums are not your only enemy to obtain a lush and healthy canopy. There are many grazers and animals out there that climb on trees and feed on the leaves and produce of your trees. Lucky for you, polycarbonate banding around the main stem of your trees can also stop these creatures from overgrazing the foliage of your trees. 

Harmless Way to Get Rid of Possums

Possum banding is the safest solution for animal grazers. The band on tree trunks does not harm any protected species of animals and, thus, abides by the National Parks and Wildlife Act. 

Affordable and Economical

Possum band installation is cheap and economical. You can purchase 20 metres of banding sheet for as low as $396.64. Once it’s installed, the band can last for a long time. Moreover, aside from the occasional pruning, you don’t need to do other actions to keep your trees safe.

Eliminates Entryway of Possums into Your Home

Oftentimes, possums enter the ceiling and recesses of your house through the branches of trees that offer access to your home. Possum banding isolates your trees from nearby structures including your home, thereby preventing possums from entering your premises. 

Conclusion

Possums can be destructive for their size. They climb on the trunk and branches of trees and graze on the foliage and fruits, compromising the trees’ health and appearance. To prevent these animals from pestering your trees, you need to install possum bands.

Trees Down Under is here to save the day. We offer possum band installation services to keep the foliage of your trees safe from possums and other grazing animals. We have a team of tree experts dedicated to keeping your garden and trees healthy and appealing. As one of the most reliable company offering landscaping and tree removal services in Sydney, we always strive to ensure premium quality services for our clients.

Stop your trees from losing any more leaves due to possums. Let us install possum bands for your garden. Call us at 0475 463 597 to get a free quote.

Types of Noxious Weeds Found in NSW and How to Deal with Them

You may find it odd to see plants in your garden that aren’t supposed to be there. Weeds are plants that grow arbitrarily. They aren’t planted nor wanted in any land because they multiply uncontrollably and compete with other plants for water and nutrients. 

The NSW council frowns upon noxious weeds, in particular, because of their invasiveness and ability to spread fast. These plants pose a threat to the economy, community, and the environment. As a result, it is imperative to control these noxious plants throughout NSW before they become unmanageable and disastrous.

Types of Noxious Weeds in NSW

The local council and agricultural experts consider a lot of weeds noxious in NSW. The Minister for Primary Industries regarded these plants as such because they are harmful to agriculture and plants, ecosystems, animals, and humans. Below are the types of noxious weeds based on their class.

Class 1 (State Prohibited Weeds) 

The entire state orders the eradication of noxious weeds that fall under this class and keeping of the state free of the plant. It is essential to notify the local council if ever you spot class 1 noxious weeds so that they can perform measures to control the said weeds.

Some examples of class 1 noxious weeds found in NSW include:

Class 2 (Regionally Prohibited Weeds) 

The parts of the state that prohibits class 2 noxious weeds must eradicate and keep the region free of the plant. Like in Class 1, you should also notify the local council for any discovery of class 2 weeds so that they can regulate them. Some examples of class 2 noxious weeds found in NSW include:

Class 3 (Regionally Controlled Weeds)

The region should fully and continuously suppress and destroy class 3 noxious weeds to reduce and confine the negative impacts of the infestation. Some examples of class 3 noxious weeds found in NSW include:

Class 4 (Locally Controlled Weeds)

The local community must control the growth of these noxious weeds to reduce their numbers, spread, and incidence and to inhibit their proliferation continuously. The locality should also aim to minimise the negative impacts of class 4 weeds on agriculture, community, and environment. Some examples of class 4 noxious weeds found in NSW are:

Class 5 (Restricted Plants)

NSW restricts weeds that haven’t been established in the state yet or only have rare occurrences. The state also prohibits selling weeds that were initially garden or aquarium plants but have the potential to become noxious weeds. The MPI created this class to prevent the introduction and spread of these potential weeds throughout NSW. Examples of class 5 noxious weeds are:

How to Deal with Noxious Weeds. 

Since weeds can grow anywhere, it wouldn’t be surprising to find some in your garden. When these unwanted plants appear in your garden, you need to take measures to control their growth and proliferation immediately. Some ways on how you can deal with them are listed below.

Prevent weed growth

Preventing noxious weeds from growing in your yard is more straightforward and cost-effective than getting rid of existing ones. While it is impossible for you to avoid undesirable plants, you can still use weed killers to intervene during their early stages of development. Applying selective weed killers can hinder the growth and spread of noxious weeds while keeping the desirable plants safe. 

Cover soil with mulch

Mulching is an effective way to inhibit weed growth. Covering the ground with mulch hinders the seeds of noxious weeds from germinating due to lack of sunlight. It also helps nurture the significant plants since mulch allows moisture and nutrient retention as well as temperature moderation. 

Take the weeds out

The best way to get rid of noxious weeds is to pull them out manually. The trick is to pull the entire plant to take out the root so that the weed stops regrowing. You can ensure that you’ve included the roots by pulling from the base and digging the soil using a spade or fork. Watering the soil is also a good idea so that you can easily slip the weeds out. 

Cultivate high-quality plants

High-quality, desirable plants and weed-free crops can outcompete noxious weeds. These plants can hoard all the nutrients, water, and sunlight that the weeds also need, thereby preventing the unwanted plant from flourishing. 

Apply herbicides 

Chemical application of herbicides is a surefire way to kill existing noxious weeds in your yard. It is also an excellent treatment for your garden soil when you remove your old lawn. Just make sure that you read and follow the directions so that you can safely apply the chemical.

Conclusion

Noxious weeds are undesirable plants in your garden because they endanger other plants, animals, and people. Thus, you should remove them immediately if you notice any seed or sprout in your yard so that they don’t thrive. That is, however, an exhausting task. You may also find it frustrating to stop and limit the proliferation of weeds in your garden. More so when you notice your precious plants and lawn die of weed infestation. 

Trees Down Under can help you deal with weed problems in your garden. Throughout our more than 30 years of service in the Sydney area, we have remained to be your number one partner in garden and tree removal services. Our expert gardeners and plant experts have the right tools and expertise to ensure that your yard is free from any noxious weeds. Contact us now at 0475 463 597 to get a free quote.

How to Choose the Right Artificial Turf for Your Lawn

As climate change makes it difficult to sustain a lush garden, many households in Sydney opt for artificial turf. The extreme changing weather creates many brown patches and uneven colours to your greenery. But with synthetic grass, worry less to achieve a green yard all year round.

Installing artificial turf in your yard means less maintenance and no watering. Also, you don’t need to apply fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides to keep a perfect lawn. Beyond that, artificial grass gives you a wide array of options to beautify your home from its types, colours, shades and thickness.

Moreover, high-quality fabricated grass can last for more than 20 years— providing huge savings from costs and maintenance. Setting artificial turf in your lawn is a long-term investment; thus, it’s crucial to choose the best product in making a lush garden for decades.

That said, here are the factors to consider when opting for the right artificial greenery in your lawn:

Usage

As kids and even pets love to play on your lawn, it’s ideal to have a durable artificial turf. The fabricated grass should withstand your daily outdoor activities. If you don’t consider the frequent usage of it, your investment could wear out too quickly.

Quality

Choosing a high-quality artificial turf doesn’t necessarily mean buying the most expensive one. The healthy competition in the marketplace provides plenty of affordable, but quality-grade synthetic greenery. Also, you can check if it’s highly durable and other traits for your personal preference.

Here are some of the traits of a high-quality artificial turf:

Pile Height

The pile height is the blade length usually measured in millimetres from the top of the backing to the turf’s tip. Residential lawns typically use more extended pile height as it is more visually appealing and soft underfoot. However, a very long blade will flatten out over time, making your artificial lawn weathered and flat.

On that, the recommended blade length is 30-37 mm. Such a short length will give you a natural-like lawn that looks fresh yet well-manicured. But it would help if you still swept it now and then, but not as often as you would with longer pile height. 

Density and Weight

When choosing a durable synthetic grass, opt to a denser product that has more fabricated yarns per square foot of turf. As for weight, heavier artificial greenery indicates higher quality. A thicker and heavier artificial grass is expensive. Still, such investment can last for 20 years or more when properly handled and maintained.

Colour

Selecting colours of your synthetic turf is a crucial decision, considering it will furnish your yard for a couple of years. Take a close look on your lawn, and you can see the colour isn’t uniform. With that, you can opt for varying shades of green to make your yard completely natural-looking.

The commonly mixed colours in synthetic grass are olive-green, dark green and lime green. Aside from the different shades of green, you can opt for a product with a few brown flecks. The minimal brownish touch in it can make your lawn look even more natural and full.

Artificial Turf Composition

Inspecting the composition of the synthetic grass can help you choose the right quality product. The C4 materials in fabricated greenery is a recycled polyethylene that is sensitive to temperature and potentially unstable to UV lights. The C4 turf is cheap, but it might end up costing you more visually and financially.

Meanwhile, you can opt for C6 as a high-quality material for your artificial lawn. Such composition means that your synthetic turf is more robust, less sensitive to temperature and softer to touch. 

Infill and Backing

The typically used infills are sand and rubber granules which provide weight and body to the grass while protecting the base of the yarns. However, rubber under extreme heat can produce minimal toxic chemical residue to your yard. On that, the installation company can help you use gravels and other types of infill to suit your changing needs.

Moreover, the backing of your synthetic lawn uses polyurethane or latex. The latex can expand and contract under extreme heat, but poly backed materials do not. Polyurethane-based products are ideal for installing in a scorching area, making sure your artificial lawn won’t expand and contract that might cause ripples and tears.

Non-Allergic Artificial Turf

Some designs of faux lawns deter allergens or hypoallergenic. It’s necessary especially if you’re installing artificial greenery for your children and pets. With that consideration, it’s better to always look for synthetic grass that naturally deters allergens such as pollens and dust.

Warranty

When choosing the right synthetic grass for your lawn, always ask for the warranties of the product. Consider how long it will last and what it covers. Most of the manufacturing companies give a 15-year warranty while products start to wear out after 20 or more years.

See to it that the warranty offers solutions when there are damages in your artificial lawn. You can also look for a product warranty that covers UV stabilisation or colour fade and the general integrity of the fake greenery.

Conclusion

Maintaining a lush natural lawn becomes difficult due to the extreme weather condition. As a result, artificial turf is ideal for making a perfect lawn without worrying from the damaging heat of the sun.  

Moreover, installing synthetic turf is a long-term investment. Thus, it’s crucial to have thorough speculation on what are the factors you should consider before choosing the best product for your lawn. Also, artificial greenery can last longer when you properly maintain and handle it.

At Trees Down Under, we offer the best gardening services in Sydney. Our expert team can remove damaged lawns and install your synthetic turf for an impeccable garden you aspire. We can also guide you from the installation process to finding the right artificial grass for your lawn.

For turf installation, please call us today at 0475 463 597. Trees Down Under will help you keep up the evergreen lawn for your outdoors. We are the perfect answer to your garden.

Is Artificial Turf Right for Your Yard?

A yard with lush grasses is an excellent outdoor spot to play with your kids and pets. As Sydney’s climate is getting warmer, you might see uneven colours and brown patches in your lawn. In effect, artificial turfs become popular as mainstream landscaping options in the city.

Artificial grass has become a realistic and affordable option to replace natural grass in lawns. It’s also more convenient to use when putting greens surrounding your pools, rooftops and decorative borders between patio pavers. 

Moreover, the synthetic turf has a good drainage layer compacted usually with gravel. It has recycled crumb rubber or sand to prevent the stiff breeze from blowing it. Also, it gives you a wide array of options in textures, finishes, colours and blade shapes.

But should you go for it? Before you can decide, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of having artificial grass installed in your property. With that, here are the factors to help you decide if artificial turf is right for your yard:

Lesser Maintenance

If you have a tight schedule, installing artificial turf can save you a lot of time. The artificial grass won’t require you to spend hours in mowing and trimming your yard. On that, you can spend your weekends to bond with your family more.

However, it doesn’t mean that synthetic grass is maintenance-free. You still need to clean and rinse the debris and dirt in it. Also, grooming your lawn is necessary to fluff the grass blades and keep it matted.

Reduced Utility Bills

Is your water bill too high, especially in summer? It’s because one-third of your bill goes to watering your lawn. With the artificial grass, say goodbye to your sprinklers and expensive water bill.

Opting for artificial turf means no mowing, which can cut a chunk from your electric bills. As natural grass requires mowing to maintain, the mower consumes a large amount of electricity. Aside from that, natural grass releases oxygen while mowing it contributes to carbon pollution— the by-product of burning fuels to produce energy.

Prevent Chemical Use

A well-maintained natural grass is somehow applied with fertilisers to boost growth. But with synthetic turf in your yard, you’re preventing the use of fertilisers. Also, you won’t need pesticides and herbicides to keep up a perfect lawn.

Eliminate Allergens in Yard

Artificial turf is ideal if you or someone in your family has allergies. Ryegrass and dust are the primary culprits of hay fevers in the months of spring and summer. Having synthetic grass installed in your yard means minimal dust and weeds— reducing those nasty allergens in your yard.

Durability

It’s no brainer that synthetic lawn won’t die in drought, making it green throughout the year. It’s less vulnerable to weeds, pests, heat, light and moisture than natural grass. Artificial turf is also extremely durable as it is dig-proof for dogs and varmints, withstanding any torture or damages.

Installation and Cost

Another factor in the decision-making of having artificial turf in your yard is how easy to install it. Before rolling out a synthetic turf, you need to prepare the ground, layout the base layer and apply a weed membrane. After that, installation can become very quick and may require you to seek professional service, which is the same with natural grass.

On the other hand, the cost is the most significant factor to consider when you want an artificial lawn. From the installation to the grass carpet itself, it is very pricey. But once you have it in your yard, it’s a long-term investment that can benefit you from less maintenance and cost for 20 years or more.

Safer Surface

Installing artificial turf to your yard is ideal when your kids love to play outdoors. The synthetic grass has a smooth and even surface that prevents your kids and even adults from tripping. Moreover, many versions of the fabricated lawn have increased shock absorption, which protects kids from falls as high as five feet.

Drawbacks of Artificial Turf

Nothing is perfect, and the same goes with artificial turf. When deciding to install the fabricated grass, it’s necessary to know what are the drawbacks of having it in your yard. Here are some of the disadvantages of artificial greenery:

Surface Heat

The biggest downside of artificial turf is it holds more heat than natural grass. With the blazing sun of Australia’s summer, it can melt slowly while radiating heat in its surrounding area. Burning charcoal can also melt the plastic grass, fortunately, it is repairable.

Odour Build-Up

Same with natural grass, you need to clean up messes in artificial greenery. It’s necessary to rinse it with water when there are droppings and other wastes. Otherwise, odours will build up and cling to the infill of the lawn.

Toxic Run-off Concern

The run-off from the crumb rubber infill is still a major concern for many people. Scientific studies have shown a minimal level of toxic residue from the infill can harm your family, pets, or the environment. As of now, many manufacturers are providing alternative infill materials to solve such an issue.

Ends Up in Landfills

The supposed life expectancy of the artificial turf is around 15-25 years. However, improper care and handling of the synthetic lawn can speed up the wear and tear it receives. Such damage might cause it to end up in landfills sooner than you expected. On that, proper handling is vital so you can look forward to using it for decades.

Conclusion

There are many factors to consider before installing artificial turf for your yard. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of fabricated greenery can help in your decision-making. A synthetic lawn can help you reduce costs and maintenance in achieving lush greenery for your home.

Moreover, installing artificial turf depends on whether you like the appearance and aesthetics it brings to your lawns. Despite its minimal drawbacks, proper care and handling can help you enjoy the long-lasting benefits that synthetic turf provides.

Trees Down Under is always here to give the best makeover your garden deserves. Our expert team provides lawn removal and a wide array of options for your turf installation. With more than 30 years of experience in offering the best gardening services in Sydney, we ensure to upgrade your gardens at an affordable rate.

For questions or inquiries, please call us at 0475 463 597 or email us at info@treesdownunder.com.au.

Fun Gardening Activities for Kids

The future of our society relies on the kids of today. At an early age, it’s essential to teach them the significance of sustainable living through gardening. When it’s difficult to grab their interest in gardening, you can create fun activities to spark their curious minds. 

Getting out in the garden is a great way to bond with your kids. Apart from being physically active, gardening teaches kids about sharing, organising, creativity and responsibility. Beyond that, it helps them connect with nature and local wildlife.

As many children are into gadgets, letting your kids play a part in your garden provides a place for them to think, relax and recharge. No matter how big or small your garden is, there are plenty of activities that they can learn while enjoying.

At holidays and weekdays, you can grab your shovel and trowel with your kids. On that, here are the fun garden activities for kids of all ages.

Make a Worm Composting Bin

As early as it is, teach your kids on the importance of composting. If you don’t have ample space in your garden, you can do composting using worm bins. The generated compost from this activity is useful for supplying your plants with the nutrients they need.

Fill half of your container with newspaper strips and moisten it. Opt for red wiggler worms for your bin as earthworms from your outdoors don’t like to live inside the containers. Add food scraps into it, but never include dairy products, oil and meat.

Let kids participate in checking the bin regularly. Ensure that the container is not overly wet and not dry while placing an extra newspaper for bedding. As the castings build up after several months, only scoop the organic material and add it to the soil around your plants.

Planting a Family Tree

It’s beyond amazing to plant trees with kids. Let the kids participate in taking care of and watering the trees in your garden. Such activity will create memories and deep connections between trees and kids as time goes by.

DIY Hydroponics

Kids usually see plants growing on your flower beds and garden. But the non-traditional way of planting like hydroponics can capture kid’s attention and make them excited about gardening. As prefabricated hydroponic units are pricey, you can opt to do-it-your own activity that is ideal for creating active participation for the kids.

Cut the one-fourth top part of a soda bottle and invert the top of the bottle into the bottom. After that, place 2-3 seeds of lettuce in a small square of cotton balls or rockwool diluted with hydroponics solution. Once the lettuce seeds start to germinate, transfer it to your bottle filled with nutrient solution.

Wrap the plastic with aluminium foil or any dark plastic to discourage algae growth. Let your kids help you change the solution every two weeks or so. With such activity, kids will enjoy gardening more than ever.

Creating a Butterfly Garden

Butterflies always amaze everyone with its beauty, especially kids. Encourage children to create a garden consisting of a colourful array of nectar-producing plants. With the right planting materials, your garden will attract butterflies and offer plants to feed the caterpillar stage of their life cycle.

The best way to attract butterflies in your area is by selecting native plants. Also, make sure you planted flowers consisting of colours such as purple, red and yellow that inevitably draws in more butterflies. With this fun activity, it’s an opportunity to teach children about the life cycle of butterflies and understand each stage of growth in great detail.

Build Homemade Bird Feeders

Another fun and exciting activity you can do with kids is feeding the chirping creatures in your garden. Winter is the toughest period of the year for wild birds, so it’s the best time to create a bird feeder. Providing food for birds is an excellent activity for your kids in helping your local wildlife. 

Kids need adult supervision upon creating a bird feeder. First, melt the lard in the saucepan and add the bird seeds. Next, punch a hole in a yoghurt cup, place a long thread in the middle and then put the mixed ingredients in it. 

After putting it in the freezer overnight, the mixture is already set. You can cut away the pot and get ready to tie your bird feeder outdoors. On that, more birds will visit your garden providing a view that kids would enjoy.

Paint Stones for Decoration

Painting stones for your garden is possible for kids of all ages. Any kiddie paint will work fine in this activity. Try creating character figures in stones or applying colours in rocks. As you place the artworks of your kids to decorate the garden, it will make them proud and happy, which encourages them to enjoy and visit the area more often.

Make Your Vegetable Garden

One of the best adventures you want the kids to try is to grow food and vegetables in your garden. With this activity, children will love vegetables more as they understand the difficulty of cultivating it themselves. As children get involved in making a vegetable garden, they will feel the joy of reaping the real rewards of their effort.

Burying Time Capsule in Your Garden

There are many fun activities that kids can enjoy in your garden, but burying a time capsule is the most unique. Let your kids find special toys and objects they want to open in the next decades to come. Creating the time capsule is very special as it will let your kids reminisce good childhood memories once they get older.

Conclusion

Gardening can help kids develop lifelong values. Aside from the idea that gardening is fun, they must learn different things at the same time. Beyond learning and values, it guides kids to preserve and conserve the environment for a brighter future.

At Trees Down Under, we can help you setup and maintain your garden space that your kids will enjoy. Our expert team also offers tree removal and tree pruning services to keep your garden safe for your kids and family. After all the fun activities, we can collect and dispose of your green wastes to keep your outdoors spotless. 

Call us today at 0475 463 597 for a free estimate. Trees Down Under provides garden maintenance to make your dream garden perfectly vibrant and safe. We are the perfect answer to all your garden needs.

How to Properly Plant Flowers in a Flower Bed

The wonders of nature are evident anywhere. In spring, the vast numbers of plants blossom in gardens of many households in Sydney. As you plan to uplift the face of your outdoors, flowers are the best elements to create a vibrant garden that will stop anyone on their tracks upon seeing it.

Planting flowers in your garden promotes an active lifestyle. The multiple sizes and colours of petals never fail to create a relaxing and alluring garden. But incorporating these plants in your garden requires proper planning before the actual planting until its full growth.

Moreover, planting flowers is usually done in a flower bed. Before seeing your flowers bloom, good soil prep is your key to successful gardening. Most importantly, your creativity in matching flowering plants will set the picturesque view you wanted.

On that, this article will guide you on how to plant flowers in a flower bed properly.

Flower Bed Preparation

Before planting flowers, bed preparation is the first step to do. See to it that there are no utility or irrigation lines buried under the location you opt to build your flower bed. You can call your local council to solve this problem.

Here are the steps in preparing your flower beds:

Weeds Removal

If you have an existing flower bed, you don’t need to do this. But when you’re building a new one, it’s necessary to remove the existing vegetation. The common notion of weed removal is by using herbicides. Still, it might remain active in the soil for days after application.

If you’re removing a small number of weeds, it’s ideal to do it manually. Even if you remove these weeds, expect that some of them will grow after planting flowers. On that, you can do the next step, which is digging the soil.

Digging Your Flower Bed

A little moisture on the soil can help you dig it easily. You can use a tiller to turn the ground to a depth of 6-8 inches. If you have a shovel, then you can do a ‘double digging’ to a depth of 18 inches which is better for the plants.

Use Mulch and Weed Barrier 

Once you’ve turned over the bed, add mulch or organic materials into it. Opting for compost can add nutrients and improve the soil structure. Spread a layer of compost two to three inches thick over the bed and mix it with the soil. 

Moreover, avoid extremely fine compost as they tend to break down quickly. Applying thicker mulching such as bark products over your flower bed deter the growth of weeds. But if compost and other mulching materials are not available, you can use woven landscape fabric as the weeds barrier.

Planting Your Flowers

After preparing your soil, you’re ready to plant flowers. See to it that the land has enough moisture, but not too wet. A soil with poor water drainage can induce the rotting of the plant’s roots. Here are some of the considerations you need before planting your flowers:

Visualising Future Growth

Visualising the full growth of your plants is necessary. Flowering plants need ample space to strive and grow ideally. If possible, consider the spread and thickness of mature plants in providing spaces in your beds.

Light Intensity

Flower beds receive sunlight abundantly. Many flowers thrive well in full sun but not all. Do some research if the flowers your planting tolerate full sun to light shade so that you’ll be successful in creating an impeccable garden.

Seasonal Growth Cycle

The seasonal growth cycle of flowering plants is vital to determine when you should plant them. Aside from that, planting the flowers in the right condition and time will help them bloom fully. Combine these three seasonal flowers to create colourful beds at different seasons:

Annuals

Annual flowers grow, produce flowers and seeds, and die in one year. As they last for only one year, it’s best to know when to plant them before buying and planting the seeds. They are usually planted in summer and fall so they can bloom from spring to late summer. 

Planting annuals require a depth of the hole that is at least 6-8 inches while the spacing between each plant is between 4-5 inches. Soil that clumps easily like clayish ones is not good in cultivating annual flowers. Some examples of annuals are petunias, zinnias, coleus and begonias.

With such quick growth, annuals are effective in changing the colours and setting of your flower beds. 

Biennials

Biennial flowers take two years to complete its life cycle. In the first season, they grow from seeds to establish themselves. In the second season, they become larger and produce flowers. Some popular flowers that belong in this category are foxglove, angelica and varieties of evening primrose.

Perennials

The perennial flowers take years to establish and bloom in full beauty. When planting these in flower beds, it’s vital to place them in a spot where it will grow for the following years to come. Examples of perennials include colourful varieties of lavender, lobelia and datura that are useful for decorating your beds.

Follow the Layering Technique

The typical colour scheme in beds is the combination of blue, purple and gold flowers. However, matching the colour and texture will depend significantly on your style and taste. Aside from that, the proper planting focuses mainly on layering your flowers from front to back of your beds.

Use Low Plants at the Front

You don’t want to put flowers at the front covering the view of your entire flower beds. You can opt to plant fescue grass and Angelina flowers that grow low enough in the front row.

Use Middle-Height Plants for Middle Row

The flowers at the middle row need to be taller than plants in the front but shorter than the back row. The ideal plants to use here are salvia varieties including Victoria blue, May Night, Caradonna, Blue Hills and Royal Candles.

Plant the Tallest at the Back Row

The tallest flowering plants serve as the backdrop for your beds. You can plant Blue Star juniper, King’s gold cypress and Emerald n’ Gold euonymus shrubs in the back row. You can also grow particular plants at the back that interest you, but with the consideration that it is the tallest in your flower bed.

Water Deeply and Add Mulch

Proper planting includes the correct watering of your flowers. You can soak the soil around your newly planted flowers. If the flowers don’t receive enough rain, you can add 1 to 2 inches of moisture every week. It’s best to water your bed deeply but less often to avoid waterlogged soil which might cause the rotting of your flower’s roots.

Over time, the flower bed will run out of the needed nutrients for proper growth. On that, it’s essential to add mulch or compost twice a year to your flower beds. Adding a layer of mulch will also help slow down evaporation that will reduce how often you should water your flowers.

Conclusion

Flowers are part of the wonders of nature that never fail to beautify gardens. But planting flowers doesn’t end after you stick the plants on the soil. It requires proper techniques and thorough planning to create the perfect garden you wanted.

Moreover, preparing the soil and beds are essential to successful flower gardening. You also need to consider the shading, seasonal growth cycle and layering techniques as part of proper planting of flowers in your flower beds.

At Trees Down Under, we can guide you in building the best flower bed for your home. When you need to clear vegetation in creating beds, our team has the equipment and skills to remove trees and weeds. Our expert team can also tailor the designs and colours of flowers to uplift the scenery that your garden deserves.

Call us at 0475 463 597 today for a free estimate. We’ll help you maintain colourful and vibrant flower beds and garden. We are the perfect answer to all your garden makeover needs.

The Best Rock Garden Ideas 2020

Creating a perfect garden is not limited to plants. Aside from the greenery, many yards in Sydney incorporate rocks to enhance their outdoors into a whole new level. A rock garden is achievable regardless of location and space you have.

Rocks can withstand high and low temperatures that can look great all year round. Also, you don’t need to live in a desert and mountains to create your rock garden. Moreover, rocks need less maintenance than foliage to keep a picturesque view of your yards.

Rocks and plants are almost present everywhere. Using both elements can help you connect with nature while keeping an impeccable garden. On that, here are the best rock garden ideas in 2020 that you can apply on your own.

Mediterranean Dry Rock Garden

If you’re an avid fan of sweet-smelling flowers, the Mediterranean-style is the best design for your rock garden. You can use different colours of rocks to surround your blossoming flowers. If you’re not fond of flowers, you can opt to use lavender and purple fountain grass to match your rockery.

Desert-Inspired Rock Garden

With the barren and rough appearance that rocks provide, it’s easy to create your desert-like garden. The abundant sunlight in your garden can help succulents and cacti thrive in your yard. Using rusty, brownish coloured rocks can elevate your backyard into a typical desert. 

Zen-style Japanese Garden

Beyond aesthetics, nothing can beat a calming and peaceful garden. Such a garden is possible with the zen style that draws inspiration from nature. The build of this garden usually has few boulders matched with green shrubs and pebbles.

Moreover, the few boulders provide miniature mountains in your rock garden. The style usually has greenery on the sides and middle to brighten the mood of your garden. Most importantly, the serene design is always suitable whether you have a large or small yard.

River Rock Garden

Creating a mini river is another best idea for your rockery. The design requires a specific arrangement of pebbles to create a beautiful stream of water. All you need is to be creative enough to mix and match the rocks to come up with a unique design you’ll admire for your garden.

Rocky Pond Landscapes

If you’re not into arranging pebbles for a mini river, then you can opt to have rocky pond landscapes. The water formation is a perfect centrepiece in a small or larger garden. If you want an innovative idea, you can use the rainwater from your rooftop to supply your pond.

A carefully planned pond can become the favourite spot of anyone who will visit your garden. Aside from the significance of rocks for this one, water plants are also crucial in creating a perfect pond. The type of plants you can opt to will depend on the water’s depth of your pond.

Placing plants in your pond can deter the growth of green algae. Here are some of the pond plants you can choose:

Rock Boulder Formation

Boulder formation adds simple yet great aesthetics to your rocky garden. The simplified setup of this uses three boulders at the centre, which is an alternative replacement for statues. Also, adding smaller rocks are ideal in the spaces surrounding your greenery.

Buddha-Inspired Rock Garden

Such a design is easy to pull off if you have a Buddha statue lying around. If you don’t have one, other large objects can replace the figure as a centrepiece of your rock garden. Bamboo and other large plants are ideal for matching the overall oriental design.

Rock Mulch

Mulching your garden is a technique used to cover the soil with organic materials that can help keep moisture and temperature. Aside from dried leaves and crushed woods as mulch, rocks are ideal for mulching as well.

Covering the surrounding empty spaces of your garden with rocks can help you eliminate weeds. But the use of stones for mulching is more of a design rather than functional for your garden. You can create spiral patterns and other arrangements of these rocks to attain an impeccable flower bed.

Rock Garden on a Low Hill

Of all the sloped rock gardens, the low hill idea is the most common. Building this can help you imitate a natural outcrop or a bedding plane at a relatively lower price. All you need to do is fit the stones and plants in a way that they look great and appealing.

Rocky Entryway

A rocky entryway creates a stunning and magnificent passage for your garden. As if you see a portal to another dimension, the structure needs strong adhesion so that stones won’t fall easily. Also, this top-tier rock garden idea requires more work and a pro’s skill to complete.

Conclusion

Aside from greenery, rocks can offer aesthetics in achieving a perfect garden. The usage of stones can keep your garden lively all year round as it can withstand extreme weather and needs less maintenance than plants. 

Moreover, any rock garden requires thorough planning and skills to create an astonishing output. Thus, an expert’s guidance is necessary. Despite the trends in the rockery, you must apply your tastes for a unique design.

At Trees Down Under, we can help you build your dream rock garden. Our team has the expertise to guide you on the ideal plants, rocks and designs for your outdoors. With more than 30 years of experience in beautifying gardens across Sydney, we can help you meet your vision of a beautiful home garden.

Call us at 0475 463 597 for a free estimate. Trees Down Under will help you build an exceptional rocky garden. We are the perfect answer to all your garden makeover needs.

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