hWater gardening questions answered

hWater gardening questions answered
Water gardening can seem intimidating to gardeners more accustomed to working with shovels and compost than pumps and liners. "The Water Garden Encyclopedia" seeks to eliminate some of that uneasiness.
The book helps gardeners create everything from simple pot fountains to more elaborate ponds, streams and waterfalls. Author Philip Swindells covers the various steps involved, including choosing a location; constructing, maintaining and repairing a water feature; installing enhancements such as lighting, decks and bridges; and choosing and growing aquatic plants.
Included in the book are instructions for 40 projects ranging from fairly simple container gardens to ambitious undertakings.
"The Water Garden Encyclopedia" is published by Firefly Books Ltd. and priced at $29.95 in paperback or $45 in hardcover.
Chemical etching makestiles less slippery
Q. The tile on my shower floor gets dangerously slippery when it's wet. Is there anything I can put on it to increase the traction?
A. Tile can be chemically etched to improve its slip resistance, according to the Ceramic Tile Institute of America. The process may alter the appearance of the tile slightly.
The institute recommends having the process done professionally to avoid damage to the tile and grout. Nevertheless, it referred me to Slip Guard Systems Inc. in Orange Park, Fla., which sells a kit for do-it-yourselfers. The company advertises that the kit is easy to use and won't damage grout or surrounding materials.
You can find out more by visiting http://slipperytile.com or calling the company at (800) 272-7212. Kits may be ordered by phone and range in price from $10.95 to $40.
Sliding doors
Today's sliding patio doors embrace the best that technology has to offer and can be operated with the touch of a finger. G2