The Influence of the Norman Conquest on Anglo-Saxon Garden Design
The Influence of the Norman Conquest on Anglo-Saxon Garden Design The Anglo-Saxon way of life was dramatically changed by the arrival of the Normans in the later eleventh century. The Normans were better than the Anglo-Saxons at architecture and horticulture when they came into power. Still, home life, household architecture, and decoration were out of the question until the Normans taken over the rest of the populace. Because of this, castles were cruder structures than monasteries: Monasteries were often significant stone buildings located in the biggest and most fecund valleys, while castles were erected on windy crests where their inhabitants devoted time and space to projects for offense and defense. Gardening, a placid occupation, was impracticable in these unproductive fortifications. The early Anglo-Norman style of architecture is represented in Berkeley Castle, which is perhaps the most untouched sample we have. The keep is thought to date from the time of William the Conqueror. A significant terrace serves as a hindrance to invaders who would attempt to mine the walls of the building. On one of these parapets is a picturesque bowling green covered in grass and enclosed by an aged hedge of yew that has been designed into coarse battlements.
The Benefits of Solar Energy Powered Outdoor Fountains
The Benefits of Solar Energy Powered Outdoor Fountains There are many different energy options you can use for your garden wall fountain. Ecological solar powered fountains, which are now easily available, have replaced older fountains which run on electricity. Solar energy is a great way to run your water fountain, just know that initial expenses will most likely be higher. Terra cotta, copper, porcelain, or bronze are used to make solar powered water fountains. If you are looking for one which fits your decor, the assortment available on the market makes this possible. If you are looking to have your own garden hideaway, these types of fountains are ideal because they are easy to maintain and also have a positive effect on the environment. In addition to its visual charm, indoor wall fountains can also serve to keep your house at a comfortable temperature. Employing the same methods used in air conditioners and swamp coolers, they are a great alternative to cool off your home. You can lower your power bill since they consume less energy.
One way to produce a cooling effect is to fan fresh, dry air across them. You can either take advantage of air from a corner of your living space or turn on your ceiling fan to improve the circulation in the room Regardless of the method you use, be certain the air is flowing over the top of the water in a regular manner. It is normal for fountains and waterfalls to generate cool, fresh air. Merely standing in the vicinity of a large public fountain or waterfall will send a sudden chill through whoever is nearby. Putting your fountain cooling system in a place that is very hot reduces its efficacy. Your fountain will be less efficient if you put it in the sunlight.
Keeping Your Garden Water fountain Tidy
Keeping Your Garden Water fountain Tidy Adequate care and regular upkeep are important to the longevity of water fountains.
Leaves, twigs, and bugs very often find their way into fountains, so it is vital to keep yours free from such debris. Another factor is that water that is exposed to sunlight is vulnerable to growing algae. To avoid this, take vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or sea salt and add directly into the water. There are those who prefer to use bleach, but that is dangerous to any animals that might drink or bathe in the water - so should therefore be avoided. Experts suggest that the typical garden fountain undergoes a thorough scouring every three-four months. Before you can start washing it you must empty out all of the water. Then use a soft rag and mild cleanser to scrub the inside. If there is intricate artwork, you might need to use a toothbrush for those hard-to-reach areas. Any soap residue that remains on your fountain can damage it, so be sure it is all rinsed off.
Calcium and fresh water organisms can get inside the pump, so you should really disassemble it to get it truly clean. To make it less difficult, soak it in vinegar for several hours before cleaning. Neither rain water nor mineral water contain ingredients that will accumulate inside the pump, so use either over tap water if possible.
One final trick for keeping your fountain in top working condition is to check the water level every day and make sure it is full. Permitting the water level to get too low can cause damage to the pump - and you certainly don't want that!