Garden

[Mom2Dogs]

@JustJazzmom  Perfect, thanks.  Now I have another project on my list, but I do enjoy working outside, it's my knee that objects....can't wait to buy some of this 'magic' sand.

[Lilysmom]

@Mom2Dogs @JustJazzmom , I have paths all over the yard.  I whipper snip them, I don't weed them.  Doesn't that take you forever?

I would consider larger beach stone for your area.  If your dog wants to lay down there maybe a paver or two.  Put landscape cloth under it so it doesn't migrate into the soil.  LM

[AnnieBelle]

NO!  LOL!  We certainly didn't purchase $750 worth!  I'm sorry - i can't tell you how many bags we used or how far they go - that's my husband's domain!  We usually pick them up at the beginning of the season - and they've been on sale for $2.00 per bag - bringing the cost of each bag under $7.00.  

[Mom2Dogs]

@AnnieBelle ....I don't know if you read thru the responses to my question but if you did, have you had the problems others mentioned?....where I had thought about using the rubber was back corner of the yard...we never walk in there but the dog likes to lay there, and spy on the neighbors....now I am concered she will try to eat the pieces!!

[Mom2Dogs]

@Lilysmom ....not sure what you mean by 'whipper snip'.... I have to weed by hand because the area is old brick, placed side by side and the weeds grow between the bricks...hand plucking is the only way to remove the pesky weeds, that I know of.

[JustJazzmom]

@Mom2Dogs ‘Whipper snip’ might be the Canadian term for our ‘weed whacking’.

[AnnieBelle]

I did read through after i posted.  We have had 3 dogs while having the rubber mulch and a cat who wandered around the garden and loved soaking up the sun - never had a problem with any of them eating it.  They weren't at all interested in it.  We chose the rubber specifically because "natural" mulch near the foundation is an invitation for termites, etc. and we wanted to avoid that problem.  

Some of the beds where the mulch is used are in full sunlight.  I've never seen it melt then stick to the dogs' fur.  We're in PA and do get some high temps - not sure if it would be any different as far as melting in a more southern climate.  I honestly can't see that happening though.

[Mom2Dogs]

@AnnieBelle ,thanks for your response!

[Lilysmom]

@Mom2Dogs @JustJazzmom , yes I mean weed whack them.  Must be Canadian lingo.  We never say weed whacker.

Here are three paths around the backyard.  The easiest to keep is the river rock path.  

I don’t have enough time to weed these.  

Rubber mulch is not in common use here.  I would definitely try it if it was readily available.  I would probably encircle plants with river rock and rubber mulch the rest of the bed to minimize the heat transfer concern about plants.  Always looking for an easier solution.

LM

[JustJazzmom]

@Lilysmom  Your paths coordinate with the outdoor gardens. Very natural looking together.