Apr 29, 2012


How to create my very own vertical garden?

Vertical gardens or living walls are a great option for anyone who don’t have a lot of space or have an ugly wall or window they want to cover up and give you an edible garden even indoors. It’s a great alternative for apartment living.

Vertical garden can offer you a fresh supply of herbs and vegetables while taking up minimal space.

1-     Location: south facing wall or fence works for the best, most plants need at least 4 hours of sunlight a day.

2-     Watering: a dependable water source is very important and a simplest watering system with bowls placed above the plants to catch water and filter it downwards or an simple drip irrigation system helps

3-     Select your plants: know your plants, you can start with easy herbs and veggies like mint, basil, oregano, chilies, lettuces and grow from there.

4-     Selecting your containers and framework: that will support the soil and roots of the plants. The framework/container can be made of wood( garden trellises, old pallets), metal (chain link fence) or even plastic (hanging shoe organizers, PET plastic bottles)

5-     Soil: choose a light weight soil or peat moss in some cases to fill the vertical garden. It should be able to drain water well but keep moist enough for the plant life.

Last but not least… Maintenance… water it and keep your eyes open for diseases and bugs.
And have fun!





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Wood pallets ideas:
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Apr 20, 2012




Swim Lessons @ Harry Myers & Gloria Williams

Learn a skill that will last a lifetime. Classes operate Mon-Thurs for two weeks.

Mommy & Me: Blow Bubbles, Splash, Learn Water Safety with your baby
Pool Pals: Introduction to the water, arm & leg techniques
Advanced Pool Pals: Going underwater, improved arm & leg techniques
Level 1: Fundamental swimming skills
Level 2: Improved swimming skills and recoveries
Level 3: Front & back strokes, rotary breathing



Summer Softball League

TAAF/USSSA slow pitch summer leagues are getting started soon. You're guranteed an 8 game season plus the top 4 teams will have a final night of playoff
to determine division winners. The registration deadline for summer league is May 21st so beat the rush and register early. Season begins the week of June 4th.

Co-Ed Recreational (Mon)

Men's D (Wed)


2012 Founders Day Festival Kid's Activities

Get ready for some fun in this years Founder's Day Kids Zone. In the Kids Zone you will find multiple bounce houses, a 26' foot Coconut Tree Climb, big inflatable slides, and games like Hooley Ball! Kids Zone is Free and fun, fun, fun!


V.I.P. - Volunteers In Parks

Sat, April 21, 9 am @ Harry Myers Park E. Pavilion (815 E. Washington)

Litter pick up
Painting trash cans
Trimming trees & shrubs
Cleaning pavilions and grills
Staining fences
Cleaning bridge
and much more



Rockwall Parks & Recreation

108 E. Washington
Rockwall, TX 75087

972.771.7740


Apr 13, 2012


Top Design Tips for Your Deck Project



Provided By Handy American

Stretch your living space out into the backyard with a deck. An ideal spot for relaxing, dining al fresco and enjoying the warmth of the season, a deck project adds a lot of value to your home and lifestyle. The perfect deck design contains certain essential elements that come together in a customized space.

Tip 1 – Build Around What You Have

While it is possible to alter the grading in your yard (most often with heavy machinery and a big budget), you’re better off to design a deck that works with and compliments the existing lay of the land. Some minor excavation is usually required, but you can avoid major changes and end up with a more flowing landscape.

Tip 2 – Minimal Spaces

There is a general rule for deck and patio sizing that will provide enough room to be comfortable in and still allow you to appreciate your surroundings. In a seating area you will need to design for 10 feet by 10 feet at a minimum. That size will hold a standard sized patio set while still providing for traffic space around the table. For every area (or room) you should have at least that space.

Tip 3 – Counter Drainage Issues With Solutions

If there are drainage problems or potential issues building a deck provides a good time to apply solutions. At the very least, be sure not to add to any drainage issues. Consider laying landscape fabric and a layer of “A” gravel to help with water flow under your deck.

Tip 4 – Find Out Your Outdoor Personality

Not everyone enjoys the same atmosphere outside their home and your deck design should incorporate that. If you enjoy the order of a Japanese garden or the diversity of a more relaxed layout the best style of deck will reflect that. Play off the natural elements found in the surrounding area and watch the deck become a pat of your backyard instead of something that stands alone.

Tip 5 – Always Design for Traffic Flow

Not just a location to sit back and relax on, your deck often serves as a pathway into the backyard or onto the lawn. In your mind go over the paths of traffic and make sure the deck you build will cater to these. Add railings for better stability or wider steps to make traveling up and down easier.

Tip 6 – Cooking Outside is Heating Up

Consider the benefits of preparing meals outside. Not only does grilling save on cooling costs by keeping the heat out of the kitchen, it also allows you to create delicious taste sensations in your own backyard. Install an outdoor kitchen complete with built in stainless steel bbq, warming trays and even sinks with plumbing. The entire culinary experience tastes better on a well designed deck.

Tip 7 – Keep It Shady

Always be sure to provide a decent amount of shade on your deck. If that’s not possible from a construction and location standpoint, plan to purchase an awning, gazebo or large patio umbrella. Mature trees can provide only a dappled shade. Keeping sun off part of the deck or for a certain time of day will also protect the decking material from fading and drying.

Deck design is a matter of considering your priorities and the lay of the existing property. Be sure to include essential elements like shade, good traffic flow, an outdoor kitchen and plenty of room. Take the time to think about the design and you’re sure to end up with the ideal outdoor living space for your family.