Ornamental Fencing: Steel vs. Aluminum

Think all ornamental fencing is alike? Steel and aluminum fencing may look similar but the benefits of steel far outweigh aluminum. A strong, sturdy fence is necessary when you’re protecting precious possessions—namely your children and pets! Steel provides both strength and security and enhances your property, offering value that can’t be surpassed. The economical appeal of aluminum is often overshadowed by the flimsy nature of the product, leaving homeowners disappointed with their choice.

LONG® FENCE offers the Ambassador Series™ ornamental steel fencing, zinc-galvanized for corrosion protection with a powder-coat finish for beauty that lasts year after year. Industrial drive rivets secure the fence components and all brackets have permanent covers for additional security and aesthetic appeal. Discover the differences for yourself. A LONG® FENCE sales associate can show you samples and demonstrate the quality of our ornamental steel fencing, at no cost and no obligation. Contact us today and get an education!

Container Gardening

It's not too early to start planning for spring on your deck or patio with bright colorful flowers cascading over the edges of your favorite container. Container gardening is perfect for people who like to garden but don’t have the time, or space, or for those who just want the bring the beauty of nature a little closer. There are a few basic rules to keep in mind to achieve success with container gardening.

• Select a variety of containers for balance and interest. Some ideas include wooden barrels, clay pots, glazed ceramic pots, plastic pots, galvanized tubs or buckets, wire pots and even hanging baskets.

• Containers should be large enough to give the plants root space for healthy growth. They should have sufficient drainage holes in the bottom. If your container lacks holes, use drainage material in the bottom such as broken clay pots or Styrofoam peanuts or gravel.

• Commercially prepared potting soil is best as it has been sterilized and contains the proper mix of rich organic material plus material like vermiculite to help it drain yet stay moist. Add a reliable brand of fertilizer when planting to get your seedlings off to a great start.

Things to Consider When Selecting Plants:
• Select flowers of different heights and sizes.
• Consider a variety of growing patterns: Do the plants trail, grow upright or stay small and compact for filler?
• Select blossoms with colors that complement each other.
• Foliage color, size, texture should be noted.
• Determine if you want a formal (symmetrical) look or informal cottage look (asymmetrical).
• Draw a plan before you get started!

Need some ideas? Try these classic favorites!

Trailing Zinnias – Plant one or two in each corner of a box-style planter or along the outer edge of a circular pot.
Trailing Blue Lobelia – Produces masses of tiny dark blue flowers with delicate dark green leaves that create a pleasant foliage contrast. Alternate the lobelia with the zinnias.
Yellow Pot Marigolds – Use as a filler plant. They are easy to grow and the bright color will make a splash when planted front and center with the zinnias and blue lobelia.

We have three types of boards available:
1. Great Deck™ wood with LongLast™ water repellent and Osmose® to protect against rot, decay and termites.
2. Vinyl, a maintenance-free, ultra durable alternative with a slip-resistant surface that is cool to the touch – in grey or tan.
3. Composite, which is a wood/resin combo that looks and feels like wood, but won’t warp, cup or splinter – in cedar, redwood, grey and brown; great for pools and it’s environmentally friendly, too!