April Dowling
Garden Guides Editorial Policies
Garden Guides uses a knowledgeable team of editors, writers, and experts to create all our content. We dive deep into the ever-evolving conversations surrounding gardening and landscaping, striving to deliver the most current and helpful tips, strengthened by expert insight and tutorials from our talented team.
As we cover many fields of expertise, we make it a priority to ensure every beat remains fresh and comprehensive. Additional information on our editorial process available here.
Stories By April Dowling
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How To Remove Graffiti From Concrete
How to Remove Graffiti From Concrete. Although some consider graffiti a form of art and self-expression, it becomes a crime when applied to private property without the property owner's permission. Vandals use art materials, such as permanent ink and spray paint, to draw symbols, pictures and words on buildings, bridges and various masonry surfaces. Concrete's smooth, porous texture provides an ideal surface for graffiti. Graffiti quickly penetrates concrete and becomes harder to wash off with passing time. Quickly remove graffiti marks from concrete using the right supplies.
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How To Kill Greenbrier Vines
How to Kill Greenbrier Vines. Distinguished by their leathery, heart-shaped leaves and sharp, thorny stems, Greenbrier vines grow along forests, woodlands, ponds and streams. Greenbrier vines generally take the form of shrubbery, but also climb trees and reach 30 feet in height. Although Greenbrier vines supply essential shelter and food supply for wildlife, these woody vines pierce skin and tear clothing when accessed. Greenbrier vines also rapidly develop and form extensive overgrowth that becomes difficult to control. Fortunately, you can kill Greenbrier vines.
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How To Get Rid Of Dead Ivy On The Wall
How to Get Rid of Dead Ivy on the Wall. No matter the structure, ivy climbs it and spreads. Ivy growth is especially common on brick walls, as their grooves and rough texturing provide convenient handles for ivy roots to grip. Since ivy roots are so strong, they generally remain attached to walls long after the ivy plant itself is dead. These roots eventually present challenges as they penetrate and widen crevices in walls. Dead ivy also provides shelter for insects and other pests. Promptly removing dead ivy from walls prevents damage and restores their appearance.
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How To Clean Concrete Floors Before Painting
How to Clean Concrete Floors Before Painting. Although predominately thought of as dull and gray, concrete floors are becoming trendier and more appealing to homeowners. Painting concrete floors gives them a personalized touch and enhances their beauty. Paint is capable of transforming boring, traditional concrete floors into colorful design features that complement any décor style. Like walls, concrete floors require cleaning before they are painted to remove grease, dirt and grime buildup, which obstruct paint's bond to concrete. Thoroughly clean concrete floors before painting using a heavy-duty cleaning solution.
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How To Prevent Algae Growth On A Brick Patio
How to Prevent Algae Growth on a Brick Patio. Brick patios are recognized for their durability, ease of maintenance and aesthetic appeal. However, in damp, shaded locations, brick patios can flourish with algae growth. Lack of sunlight from overhanging trees and dense vegetation encourage algae growth on brick patios. Algae ruin the appearance of brick patios, causing landscapes and gardens to appear dingy and neglected. Their slippery texture also makes patios dangerous to walk on. However, certain techniques can effectively rid algae from brick patios and prevent future growth.
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