There are many things to consider before just throwing some plants up on your roof. The structure of your dwelling has to be assessed to make sure it can hold the weight of a green roof. (You also need to be sure that rooftop gardening is approved for your living space — need to check with your HOA? Do this first!)
This is an exciting new trend in landscaping. Maybe Hawaii will be next to implement it into our dwellings?
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Accidentally clipped your sprinkler head with the lawn mower or weed trimmer? Have an old, cracked nozzle that just isn't working? Try the remedy below. There are many brands and styles of sprinklers out there, though for the purpose of this post, we'll look at a simple nozzle repair on a Rainbird sprinkler. Firstly, it's great to have a few of each different type of heads on standby so you don't have to run to the store. Along with knowing your brand, there are also different types of spray heads (360-deg, 90-deg, etc.). Take a look at the types of heads you have now and plan on stocking up. Next, turn off the water to that system (by using your automatic timer control panel or the shut-off valve for a manual system). Whether you have a sprinkler head that pops up or a riser (which sticks up out of the ground), the nozzle will screw off in an anti-clockwise direction. You may need to use a small flathead screwdriver to pop the nozzle up before unscrewing. Under the nozzle will be a long plastic 'screen' that you can check for clogging. Rinse out or replace as necessary — note that cleaning out a dirty screen can often solve your problem. Now it's time to screw in your new nozzle. Check to see that the grooves are pointed in the correct direction for your spray. And that's it. You're ready to turn your system back on and check your work. You can always turn the water back off and adjust the head if necessary, though it's okay to do it while the water is spraying, too. Need further assistance? Contact us for any of your repair needs. Landscape lighting can add quite a punch to your yard. 'Feature lighting' sends rays of light to your most loved areas and highlights your hard work (or your landscaper's hard work!). A garden path, garden steps or a driveway are also areas that you can flank with lights for a more practical use. Solar-powered lighting is a great option that doesn't tax your electric bill and are often easier to install — think wireless! If you're interested in getting a quote for your lighting needs, drop us a line. Photo credit: axsoris.com What is it? Rat lungworm is a parasite that was brought to Hawaii from Southeast Asia by — you guessed it — rats. The parasite can be transferred to slugs/snails when they crawl through rat feces. Flatworms eat slugs and can also be carriers. The Semi-Slug (Parmarion martensi) can be more heavily infected with the parasite. How do humans contract it?By eating raw/under cooked snails and slugs or food that has come into contact with their slime trails. They may be hidden in produce and missed upon initial inspection. The slime trails left behind by infected gastropods also contain high amounts of the parasite. Slime trails are everywhere when you start to take notice of them. Sidewalks, picnic tables, counter tops, produce —makes you want to go wash your hands, right? How do I know if I have been infected? What do I do? Before you consult Dr. Google, know that symptoms are usually flu-like:
If you think there is any possibility that you have contracted this parasite, seek medical help immediately.
If all of this sound really scary, it’s because it is. The best measures you can take to protect yourself, your family, and your pets (yes, animals can be affected as well!) is to be informed and aware of the causes and symptoms. Be vigilant in inspecting and thoroughly washing your produce with soap and water. Wash your hands after working outside and especially before eating. |
AuthorGreg Stout has over 30 years of experience in the landscape and irrigation industry. Born in Illinois, Greg relocated to Hawaii in the 1970's and has been providing quality design and installation work to the people of Maui since 2000 as the owner of Maui Lawn & Landscape, LLC. Archives
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