Tips of the Trade
Tips of the Trade
Soil
When filling your new garden bed, or when topping up existing beds, always order slightly more than the raw cubic measurement to allow for settling of the soil.
When planting natives make sure they sit above natural ground level, as this can help prevent root diseases.
Mulch
Decorative mulches can improve the look of your garden. However, before you select your ideal mulch, it is worth taking some time to improve the quality of your soil. We recommend applying compost or soil enhancer first. This will improve the soil condition and also help with water retention. Then add your choice of surface cover. It pays to remember that larger mulch will not blow as readily.
Turf
When laying new turf always lay a bed of good soil first. This will make it easier for new grass roots to grow down and reach the water and nutrient they need. It is always a good idea to check the soil pH before laying new turf. A pH around 6-6.5 is best.
Driveways
Limestone Rubble or Coastal Stone can be an attractive alternative to gravel and results in a cleaner footprint, due to its' lighter colour. The way a product compacts and drains should also be considered, depending on the situation.
Pebbles, Stones and Rocks
Pebbles are an expensive product, so it is important to get the most out of your purchase. When using pebbles as a decorative ground cover always allow at least 2.5 times the diameter of the pebble you are using for the depth of pebble cover, e.g. for 20mm pebbles have a depth of 50mm. If you have an area to fill that is quite deep, use a cheaper product to fill most of that depth, like blue metal, metal dust or river sand. Ask about our Stone Fines if you are using River stone. Laying products like these down first can also help to minimise weeds in the future.
Mixing different pebble colours or sizes together can give your garden a bigger impact. Using different types of rock or stone in your pebbled area can also provide a feature.
Water
Water your gardens and lawns heavily once or twice a week to encourage your plants to grow deep root systems. This helps them to become more drought resistant.
Quantities
If you're planning your own outdoor project and need to work out how much you need or what transport to organise, you can use our handy product calculator guide
Building and Construction
We are always happy to provide help where we can when it comes to projects. We think DIY construction can be serious stuff, so if it is a big job we also have a list of contractors and designers that can help.