Allgreen

Hey Rang,

interesting seed pod!....looks like it could be this plant: Asclepias fruticosa

http://en.wikipedia....epias_fruticosa

It is poisonous but livestock need to eat alot to make them ill. If you can remove it by digging it out or maybe a yearly mow will stop it from getting to a point where it will seed? You could also cut it down at the base and paint the fresh cut with concentrated Glyphosate.

Will, on 26 April 2012 - 11:34 PM, said:

Brick, Concrete and galvanised mild steel are probably the longest last depending on how well they are installed initially.

Hi Adam,

The following links might help you with your first question regarding the pine tree health. Have there been any changes in the look of the foliage? Has there been any construction work/ disturbance around the root zones of the trees recently? From the looks of it they are planted VERY close to the house which would have an impact on the amount of nutrients and water the tree can receive.

http://www.savatree.com/pine-tree.html
http://www.hgtv.com/...tree/index.html

In regards to question two. Im suprised you want to keep the pines. I wonder what there doing to the foundations of the house.
I can see what you are trying to do with the 2 extra trees and the hedge, although i think the hedge height might only need to come to the height of the balustrade wall on the veranda. 10' is a very high hedge! esp at the front which from the looks the front yards of the neighbours houses are fairly open like yours is currently. Might be good to check if there any rules about what you can and can't do in the front yard first as some councils are a little strict on this. I also think the two extra trees is going to be over the top for the small space and it might be hard to establish a hedge there. The pines are already going to give you issues. Just a few things to think about / check etc.

Allgreen