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Gung Hoe Gardener: Making Mulch


By Neely Bower


May 6, 2015:  There are many materials that can be used for mulch. My favorite source of mulch is my tree company, which will deliver a large pile of tree chips for free.

However, there are a few problems with this method. The chips are larger and take longer to break down, you have to clean out branches and debris from them, and they could carry disease if you don't get them from a reputable arborist. One year I put the free chips in a garden bed that was on a slight hill, and after a big rain storm they all floated off the bed into the grass. So be careful where you put them; they are perfect for pathways, not garden beds. Contrary to what some people believe, these chips do not take nutrients away from the soil.

The most popular mulch comes from a bag; I prefer shredded to chunk. However, you can use newspaper, cardboard, or leaf mold. If you really want to kill something, put down a thick layer of newspaper (front section of the New York Times), wet thoroughly with a hose, and cover it with bagged mulch--guaranteed to kill what is underneath.

Mulch is used for moisture retention, weed control, and beauty. You can put it down anytime of the year, but it's best before plants have emerged and growing is best. That means we are a little late here in Bronxville. No problem--you just have to work around the new growth and put it down no more than two to three inches deep. Make sure not to put the mulch too close to the base of a plant; the roots need air to breathe.

Promise me you will never use dyed mulch on your yard, especially red. (I checked those bags and they do not tell you what is in the dye.) Have you ever seen red soil except in Sedona, Arizona, or the Grand Canyon?

Pictured here:  Lovely cushions of phlox incorrectly mulched.

Photo by N. Bower

Home & Garden Directory

Architects, Landscape Architects, General Contractors

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Architects

Brian O'Keefe Architecture ("BOKA")

Brian O'Keefe Architecture ("BOKA"), which is owned by Bronxville resident Brian O'Keefe, was established in 1993. Their work draws upon the client's desired aesthetic, traditions of that style and reinterpreting them to create a project that is well suited to its location and context, and fits well with the client's lifestyle and today's needs. They do renovations, additions, and new construction projects of varying sizes. 
 
BOKA also works as an architectural consultant for several well-known New York and Los Angeles based interior designers.
  
Office: 212.957.9790 /
Cel: 917-402-6774
Fax: 212.245.0157 
445 West 162nd St New York, NY 10032 
 
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Dordevic Architecture + Construction

Dordevic Architecture + Construction is a specialized design firm whose core values are grounded in timeless modern design with a thoughtful approach to understanding program and function. Our expertise ranges from luxury residential to retail and commercial. We provide clients with a full range of architecture, construction and renovation services since great spaces are the result of a collaborative effort between thoughtful designers and skilled craftsmen.
 
19 Pondfield Road, No. 156
Bronxville, NY 10708
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617.821.2491
386.774.9000
386.774.9002
 

Landscape Architects

Renee Byers Landscape Architect P.C.

Longtime Bronxville resident, Renee Byers, FASLA, offers landscape architectural design services for primary and secondary residences throughout New York, Connecticut and beyond. She and her studio team are widely recognized for their work that combines landscape artistry with technical problem-solving to create beautiful and functional outdoor environments. They are adept at working with any architectural style, challenging topography and love creating site-specific, personal gardens that evolve with the families who live in them.
Email:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
203-489-0800
Cell: 914-318-5794

Hackett Landscape Design, Inc.

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Fax/Phone: (914) 337-6049

NYC Phone: (212) 768-4242

General Contractors

Gerry Hickey Construction
 
Venetian Plaster, Interior Plaster, Replication of interior textures, Molding Repairs, Exterior stucco work, Home Remodeling

29 West Devonia Avenue
Mount Vernon, NY 10552
914.906.5984

Gutilla Contracting

Guttilla Contracting was built on taking pride in what it does and making home owner's dreams come true.  Serving Bronxville for over 35 years, it is fully licensed and insured in Westchester and Dutchess County and the state of Connecticut.  See their website for a complete list of services.
 
66 Palmer Avenue Suite 49A
Bronxville N.Y. 10708
Office:  914-693-2132
Fax: 914-693-2133
Decorators & Interior Design

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Decorators & Interior Design

Chapin Interiors

Chapin Interiors works closely with clients to blend furniture, fabrics and accessories in a creative mix that makes each newly designed interior as sophisticated, comfortable and unique. 

914-361-1157

228 Main Street, New London, N. H. 03257

www.chapininteriors.com

Decorating Den Interiors
 
Marni Sugerman makes the whole process of interior design stress-free for her clients.  Decorating Den offers personalized service, on-of-a-kind design, and specialize in project planning. 
 
They work with clients  from the ground up to create a custom plan just for them.  Best of all, they work behind the scenes so their clients don't have to - coordinating everything from measuring, product ordering, and finally to installation to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
 
Whether you want to decorate one area or the whole space, they can help you create something that is well-made, functional and elegant.
 
Marni has 25 years of experience designing gorgeous spaces that can be enjoyed for many years to come. Whether your style is traditional or modern, contemporary or luxurious, ensure your home reflects your taste by seeking the help of a professional interior decorator.
 
Marni Sugerman
2097a Boston Post Road
Larchmont, N.Y. 10538
914-829-5100
 
Gld Interiors
 
After an almost 20 year career working at Christie's Auction House with furniture and decoration from around the globe, Ginette Dean founded her interior design firm, Gld Interiors.  She is equal parts project manager, renovation therapist and experienced multidisciplinary interior designer. Her goal is to partner with clients to create the unique, timeless home where your family will build lasting memories. 
 
Her interiors reflect her love of mixing the old and new and high and  low to create spaces that are personal and livable. While she has built houses from the ground up, her experience lies mainly in flipping and renovation old homes.  Maintaining their character, while modernizing for function is always her goal.  Whether you are looking to renovate one room or your whole home, Gld Interiors is able to help.
 
Gld Interiors
845 James St., Pelham, N.Y. 10803
646-942-2236
 
Helen Grubel
 
Helen Grubel is a full time Interior Designer who understands that decorating & renovations can be very stressful, whether a small or large project.  She see the importance of taking some that stress off her clients & making the whole experience pleasant and yes, sometimes fun!
 
Cellphone:  914- 912-3930
Helengrubelinteriordesign.com
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Nicole Interior Designs, Inc.

Nicole Interior Designs is a one-stop full service interior design boutique serving Westchester for over 20 years. They carry a wide selection of custom fabrics, furnishings, window treatments and finishes. 

www.nicoleinteriors.com

Patricia O'Shaughnessy Design

Patricia O'Shaughnessy Design is a full service, residential interior decorating firm. 

www.PattiOhome.com

 
Flowers, Plants, and Tree Services

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Florists

Lulevere/Tryforos

The Tryforos family has roots in the floral industry since the late 1800's and is privileged to be serving Bronxville since 1963.  They deliver and send flowers worldwide.

M-F: 9am-6pm
Sat.: 9am-5pm

73 Pondfield Road
Bronxville, NY 10708
914.337.2525
www.tryforosflorist.comTree Services

Tree Services
 
Bartlett Tree Experts
 
2240 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford, N.Y. 10523
914-592-4520
Cell: 914-760-4460
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Technical Help

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Computer, Network & Internet Services

Gerry McLoughlin
914-337-7084
www.GerryMcL.com

Computer Tutor @ PCI

914-337-1700
www.computertutorpci.com

Geeks on Wheels

Dylan Hall
Harrison, New York 914-562-1800
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www.geeks-on-wheels.net

The Computer Nerds, Inc.

PO Box 31
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-779-7952
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www.thecomputernerdsinc.com

The Dream Foundry, Inc.
Creative Services & Custom Web Development

763-390-9299
http://www.thedreamfoundry.com
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Painting, Wallcovering, and Rug Care
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Steve Pag Wallcovering LLC
Steve has been serving Bronxville for over 40 years in the home improvement business.  Steve is now offering wallpaper installations only.  Steve is a graduate of the US School of Professional Paperhanging (1980) and has an expertise in installing all types of wallpaper including:  grass-cloth, murals and fabrics. Steve holds himself to the highest standards and makes sure expectations are met by his customers.
 
Steve Pagliaroli
38 Brookside Circle
Bronxville, N.Y. 10708
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Call or text: 914-447-7841
 
Rug Renovating
Rug Renovating is your one-stop shop for all your fine rug and home furnishing care needs.  As the largest rug restoration and refinishing company in the country, we specialize in expert rug cleaning, repair, and restoration, as well as stain removal, fiber protection, and carpet and furniture cleaning.  Family-owned and operated since 1896, our master craftspeople can clean and repair nearly any type of rug.  Proudly serving the NY, NJ and Ct. metropolitan areas, we help families preserve the beauty and longevity of their homes.
 
Rug Renovating
973- 675-8313
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Raytone Cleaning & Restoration, Inc.
Carpets/ Upholstery/Area Rugs and other fine fabrics.  Tile & grout/LVT cleaning.  24 HR Emergency Water Damage Restoration
No Excuses, No Gimmicks, Just 100% Clean
 
128 West Lincoln Avenue, Mt. Vernon, NY 10550
914-776-2269  Office
914-776-5534  Fax
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USA Carpet Cleaning
USA Carpet Cleaning was founded in 1991 in Cold Spring, N.Y.  A family-owned and operated business, known for its commitment to quality service at a fair price.
 
With over 30 years of experience, we have established ourselves as a leader in the floor & upholstery cleaning industry, consistently exceeding expectations and earning the trust of residential and commercial customers in Bronxville and throughout Westchester, Putnam Rockland and Fairfield Counties.
 
Using state-of-the-art, truck-mounted steam cleaning technology, we deliver deep, effective cleaning with exceptional results for the following:
 
-Wall to wall carpet, area rugs, upholstery, tile and grout, car & boat interiors and more.........
-We are Pet Odor removal specialists!
-24 HR. water remediation service.
 
Call us to discuss your cleaning needs and ask for Sharon!  Mention that you saw us in My Hometown Bronxville and receive 10% OFF all services.
 
USA Carpet Cleaning, Inc.
P.O. Box 118
Buchanan, N.Y. 10511
914- 788-1824
 

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