When designing a garden, focal points are an important concept. A focal point is a feature that draws the eye. This can be anything from a tall tree to a colorful grouping of plants, to a strategically placed statue. Having a focal point (or several) in your landscape or garden gives the whole area a more orderly look.

You can create an eye-catcher by something as simple as planting a tall, colorful plant in the midst of smaller plants in a flower bed. If you already have a naturally imposing feature, such as a large tree, consider placing colorful perennials around it.

Another way to draw the eye is to use bold contrasts. A grouping of bright red or white flowers in the midst of an expanse of green lawn will draw attention. Even a bright color amidst pastels will work.

One of the most popular methods is to use statues and other garden decor, such as fountains, birdbaths or bird feeders. Used as a centerpiece of a design, these are a great way to create a focal point. A driveway or path with brightly colored borders is another popular way to draw attention. Both solid colors and mixed colors can work well here.

A driveway or path with brightly colored borders is another popular way to draw attention. Both solid colors and mixed colors can work well here.

If you are lucky enough to have a naturally good view, use it as a backdrop for a grouping. If you have the sort of yard that lends itself to paths, consider a flower-covered arch trellis as an entry way. Come in and look around; you'll find plenty of good ideas!

Postemergence herbicides target visible weeds. They are used primarily against broadleaf weeds, perennial grasses, and sedges. The chemicals 2-4d, dicamba and mecoprop are broadleaf herbicides. The have been combined in many products that control many broadleaf weeds. Look for these active ingredients in products such as Bayer All in One Weed Killer for Lawns or OrthoWeed-B-Gone.

Guidelines for Using Postemergence Herbicides

When choosing an herbicide, make sure that it will control the weed and that it is recommended for your turf. Before using, read the entire label and follow it precisely. The following tips will help you achieve optimum control in the spring or fall when air temperatures are between 65 and 85 degrees F. In hotter temperatures, turf damage is more likely.

At the time of treatment, soil moisture should be adequate. When drought stressed, weed control is poor and turf damage is more likely.

Mow a couple of days before or a couple of days after application. Mowing lessens the amount of surface area that the herbicide contacts.

Treat weeds when no rain is expected for at least 24 hours.

If it is windy, wait to apply herbicides of any kind. They can and will injure ornamental plants. Best results occur when weeds are young.

For acceptable control, repeat applications, 10-14 days apart, may be required.