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	<title>Godfrey DIY blog</title>
	<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog</link>
	<description></description>
	<pubDate>Thu, 03 Apr 2008 15:31:02 +0000</pubDate>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=2.3.1</generator>
	<language>en</language>
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		<title>Slouchpod Interactive XT Gaming Chair</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/slouchpod-interactive-xt-gaming-chair/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/slouchpod-interactive-xt-gaming-chair/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:45:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[New Godfrey DIY Products]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/?p=14</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Slouchpod Interactive XT is an amazing Gaming and Multimedia chair that features built-in speakers, sub-woofer and a multi-media control panel to provide an enhanced experience for gamers, movie fans, and users of MP3 players. Ultra-comfortable, and with built-in speakers and sub-woofer the Slouchpod Interactive XT is compatible with MP3 Players, Games Consoles and other portable [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float:left;padding:10px;" src="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gallery/art14-1.gif" alt="Slouchpod gaming chair" /><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gifts-gadgets/slouchpod-interactive-xt-gaming-chair-black/item13013770.html">Slouchpod Interactive XT</a> is an amazing Gaming and Multimedia chair that features built-in speakers, sub-woofer and a multi-media control panel to provide an enhanced experience for gamers, movie fans, and users of MP3 players. Ultra-comfortable, and with built-in speakers and sub-woofer the Slouchpod Interactive XT is compatible with MP3 Players, Games Consoles and other portable music and video devices:</p>
<p>If you’re in to movies, the Slouch Pod is a great way to enjoy them.  With the built-in sub-woofer you’ll <em>feel</em> the audio like you’re at the cinema – but in super- comfort!  For games, the Slouch Pod is compatible with<br />
<img style="float:right;padding:10px;" src="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gallery/art14-2.gif" width="150" /><br />
* Xbox 360<br />
* Playstation<br />
* Gamecube * PSP * Nintendo DS<br />
* Wii</p>
<p><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gifts-gadgets/slouchpod-interactive-xt-gaming-chair-black/item13013770.html">Buy Slouchpod gaming chair! </a></p>
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		<title>Graham &#038; Brown Feature Wallcoverings make a feature in your room</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/graham-brown-feature-wallcoverings-make-a-feature-in-your-room/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/graham-brown-feature-wallcoverings-make-a-feature-in-your-room/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:45:34 +0000</pubDate>
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		<category><![CDATA[DIY Guides]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/?p=13</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Wallcoverings have been making a new impact on interior design in the past couple of years, mainly due to their use on focal point walls.
When used on a single wall, such as a chimney breast or in an alcove, bright and vivid patterns are now making impactful design statements. Graham &#38; Brown’s Feature Wallcoverings range [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img style="float:left;padding:5px;" src="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gallery/art13-1.gif" width="150" />Wallcoverings have been making a new impact on interior design in the past couple of years, mainly due to their use on focal point walls.</p>
<p>When used on a single wall, such as a chimney breast or in an alcove, bright and vivid patterns are now making impactful design statements. Graham &amp; Brown’s Feature Wallcoverings range has some exquisite designs, and are available online or in store at Godfrey.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/graham-and-brown-feature-wall/drama-carmen-brown/item02020230.html">Graham &amp; Brown Drama &#8216;Carmen Brown&#8217; Wallpaper</a> - £ 14.99</p>
<p><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/graham-and-brown-feature-wall/drama-traviata-aqua/item02020250.html">Drama Traviata Aqua Wallpaper</a> - £ 14.99</p>
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		<title>Smoothing Over Textured Wallpaper</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/smoothing-over-textured-wallpaper/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/smoothing-over-textured-wallpaper/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:45:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[DIY Guides]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/?p=12</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There is a refreshingly simple, cost effective way to rid your home of the dreaded woodchip and anaglypta with Polycell’s &#8220;SmoothOver your Textured Wallpaper&#8221;.
For how many years have you looked in dismay at your woodchip or anaglypta, desperately wanting to get rid of it but fearing the big and messy task that lies ahead? Knowing [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There is a refreshingly simple, cost effective way to rid your home of the dreaded woodchip and anaglypta with Polycell’s &#8220;SmoothOver your Textured Wallpaper&#8221;.</p>
<p>For how many years have you looked in dismay at your woodchip or anaglypta, desperately wanting to get rid of it but fearing the big and messy task that lies ahead? Knowing that even if you can get the notoriously difficult wall covering to come off, you’re likely to be faced with uneven, cracked surfaces in need of professional plastering.</p>
<p>You are not alone - despite consumers citing textured wallpaper as one of their absolute pet hates, there are still 67 million UK walls covered with either woodchip or anaglypta.</p>
<p>There is a solution! Finally however, there is a refreshingly simple, cost effective way to rid your home of the dreaded woodchip and anaglypta with Polycell’s “SmoothOver your Textured Wallpaper”.</p>
<p>This revolutionary new product can help to transform your home, dragging it from the ‘70s into the noughties, creating super smooth walls ready to paint in whatever colour tickles your fancy.<br />
<img style="float:right;padding:10px;" src="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gallery/art11-1.gif" width="150" /></p>
<p><strong>How to use Polycell SmoothOver your Textured Wallpaper:</strong></p>
<p><strong>Before You Start </strong><br />
1. Make sure the wallpaper is clean, dry, well adhered to the wall and in sound condition. Any loose wallpaper should be either removed or glued back with an appropriate wallpaper adhesive and left to dry before applying the product</p>
<p>2. Remove any nails and screws or touch in  with gloss paint to avoid corrosion</p>
<p>How to Use</p>
<p>1. Start by stirring the Polycell Smoothover to a creamy consistency. Then load the Polycell SmartSmoother with product. It&#8217;s best to work with approximately 2cm depth of product across the full width of the blade.</p>
<p>2. Apply the Polycell Smoothover to the wallpaper*, smoothing the product across the surface to just fill the texture. You&#8217;ll get best result if you apply the product in a smooth arc, maintaining even pressure as you smooth. Work away from the edges and focus on small area at a time (0.5m2). Small bubbles may appear during application but these should be left as they will disappear on drying.</p>
<p>3. Allow the first coat for 3 to 4 hours before applying a second coat  (maximum thickness 2mm)</p>
<p>Finishing Off<br />
1. Don&#8217;t worry about small irregularities or tramlines as these can be removed by light sanding when the product is dry which takes about 24 hours, depending on conditions (do not use an electric sander).</p>
<p>2. Wash tools in warm soapy water immediately after use. Once dry, your walls are now ready to paint.</p>
<p>*Polycell Smoothover For Textured Wallpapers is not recommended for use over papers applied to cement surfaces such as concrete or over Woodchip paper applied directly to non plastered plasterboard. Wallpapers coated with very absorbing paints, such as white wash, are also less suitable.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/decorating-preparation/smoothing-products/smoothover-5lt-textured-wallpaper/item03121980.html">Smoothover 5lt Textured Wallpaper</a> - £24.99</p>
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		<title>Bold is Beautiful: Interior decorating using Dulux Feature Wall</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/bold-is-beautiful-interior-decorating-using-dulux-feature-wall/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/bold-is-beautiful-interior-decorating-using-dulux-feature-wall/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:45:11 +0000</pubDate>
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		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/?p=11</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Can it be that bold colour in interiors is making a comeback? We think so.

Intense, dramatic, yet sophisticated colour schemes are becoming more and more popular, as we reach out for ways to slice through the neutral haze in our homes. Whilst muted greys and restful beiges are still necessary to provide subtle backdrops that [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Can it be that bold colour in interiors is making a comeback? We think so.</p>
<p><img style="float:right;padding:10px;" src="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gallery/art10-1.gif" width="150" /></p>
<p>Intense, dramatic, yet sophisticated colour schemes are becoming more and more popular, as we reach out for ways to slice through the neutral haze in our homes. Whilst muted greys and restful beiges are still necessary to provide subtle backdrops that allow us to create harmony within our homes, we now want to show off that element of daring within us.</p>
<p>For this reason, Dulux have launched a range that meets the need for achieving that fashionable edge to counter-balance an otherwise fairly safe scheme. <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/featurewall/cat205.html">Dulux Feature Walls</a> is a range of six colours that can only be described as indulgent, opulent and intense.</p>
<p><img style="float:left;padding:10px;" src="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gallery/art10-2.gif" width="150" /></p>
<p>Dulux Feature Walls can be used to add depth to alcoves and fire-surrounds, inject interest into architecturally featureless rooms and to give structure to any space by creating a stunning focal point. As most of us find it difficult to co-ordinate colours, we often default to using the standard creams or beige combinations, in order to avoid making a decorating faux-pas. Helpfully, Dulux have specifically selected six creams to partner these Feature Wall colours, which takes the guesswork out of putting a successful scheme together, whilst still allowing you to create a room your friends will envy.</p>
<p><img style="float:right;padding:10px;" src="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/gallery/art10-3.gif" width="150" /></p>
<p>Feature Walls is available in  <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/featurewall/dulux-125l-feature-wall-intense-truffle/item01035460.html">Intense Truffle,  </a><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/featurewall/dulux-125l-feature-wall-raspberry-diva/item01035490.html">Raspberry Diva,  </a><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/featurewall/dulux-125l-feature-wall-redcurrant-glory/item01035500.html">Redcurrant Glory,  </a><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/featurewall/dulux-125l-feature-wall-overtly-olive/item01035480.html">Overtly Olive,  </a><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/featurewall/dulux-125l-feature-wall-teal-tension/item01035510.html">Teal Tension and  </a><a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/featurewall/dulux-125l-feature-wall-mulberry-burst/item01035470.html">Mulberry Burst</a>.    Dulux Feature Walls is available from Godfrey, along with the <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/dulux-paints/light-and-space/cat206.html">co-ordinating creams</a> that will give your living room the designer touch.</p>
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		<title>Look after your hardwood garden furniture and enjoy its natural beauty</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/look-after-your-hardwood-garden-furniture-and-enjoy-its-natural-beauty/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/look-after-your-hardwood-garden-furniture-and-enjoy-its-natural-beauty/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:44:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/?p=10</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Hardwood is a beautiful material for the construction of garden furniture. As a natural product, it will require much protection from the elements in order to maximise its life and maintain its attractive appearance. We suggest that you take care of your furniture in accordance with these guidelines:





&#160;


1 - Preservative Protection &#38; Teak Oil
Regularly apply [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Hardwood is a beautiful material for the construction of garden furniture. As a natural product, it will require much protection from the elements in order to maximise its life and maintain its attractive appearance. We suggest that you take care of your furniture in accordance with these guidelines:</p>
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<h2>1 - Preservative Protection &amp; Teak Oil</h2>
<p>Regularly apply (at least twice in a season) an appropriate preservative to the timber. We endorse the range of products manufactured by Cuprinol , in particular <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/hardwood-garden-furniture-care/cuprinol-hardwood-garden-furniture-oil-500ml/item03120240.html">Cuprinol Hardwood Garden Furniture Oil </a></p>
<h2>2 - Physical Protection</h2>
<p><strong>In the Summer:</strong><br />
Cover the suite whenever possible in order to minimise the exposure to sunlight and rain. We sell a range of covers to suit our garden furniture. Our staff will be very happy to advise you.</p>
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<p><strong>In the Winter:</strong><br />
Don&#8217;t leave it in the garden - store your suite in a garage or shed. It is not designed be exposed to winter weather no more than your indoor furniture is! Many chairs fold down for easy storage, and any rigid components can be carefully disassembled.</p>
<p>Whilst vinyl covers offer ideal protection during the summer they should not be regarded as an alternative to storing in a shed or garage. This is because these vinyl covers will encourage condensation which will be very harmful to the timber by causing mould or even rot.</p>
<p>Following the above guidlelines should ensure that you can enjoy your hardwood garden furniture for many seasons.</p>
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		<title>Water Saving in the garden this Summer with Godfrey</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/water-saving-in-the-garden-this-summer-with-godfrey/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/water-saving-in-the-garden-this-summer-with-godfrey/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:44:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
		
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/?p=9</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[1. Mulch the soil
The sun and wind dry out soil by evaporating moisture from the surface. Gardeners can dramatically reduce this waste by adding a 5cm (2in) mulch layer of bark chips which also shades the soil and keeps it cooler. Levington Water Saving Decorative Bark is perfect for this purpose.
2. Buy a water butt
Connect [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>1. Mulch the soil</h2>
<p>The sun and wind dry out soil by evaporating moisture from the surface. Gardeners can dramatically reduce this waste by adding a 5cm (2in) mulch layer of bark chips which also shades the soil and keeps it cooler. <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/water-saving/water-saving-decorative-bark-60l/item43191040.html">Levington Water Saving Decorative Bark</a> is perfect for this purpose.</p>
<h2>2. Buy a water butt</h2>
<p>Connect your <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/water-saving/harcostar-water-butt-114l/item43007170.html">water butt</a> to the rainwater down pipe from the roof. If you already have a water butt and it doesn&#8217;t have sufficient capacity for your garden&#8217;s needs then buy another and connect the two using a <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/water-saving/harcostar-water-butt-linking-kit/item43007220.html">Harcostar Linking kit</a>.</p>
<h2>3. Water garden plants thoroughly</h2>
<p>Just wetting the top inch of soil encourages plants to produce surface roots. Instead, a thorough soaking once a fortnight is better than daily dribbles.</p>
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<h2>4. Get water straight to the roots</h2>
<p>Sink plastic pots or tubes alongside precious plants so that the water you give them goes straight to the roots.</p>
<h2>5. Enrich the soil when planting</h2>
<p>Improve the water-holding capacity of soil by digging in organic matter when you are planting new trees, shrubs or other plants. <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/compost/murphy-7multi-purpose-compost/item43004360.html">Levington Multi-Purpose Compost</a> is ideal.</p>
<h2>6. Add water-holding gel to compost and soil</h2>
<p>Before planting, add water-holding crystals to ordinary composts and garden soil. It saves time and saves watering. We recommend <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/water-saving/miracle-gro-moisture-control-gel/item43025900.html">Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Gel</a> because it can absorb 400 times its own weight in water, ready to release it to plant roots whenever required.</p>
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<h2>7. Ban weeds</h2>
<p>They steal water and soil nutrients. You will see them die in days if you wet the leaves with <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/weedkiller/weedol-2-fast-acting-weedkiller-6-sachet/item43024590.html">Weedol 2</a> or the ready-to-use <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/weedkiller/weedol-1l-ready-to-use/item43003600.html">Weedol 2 Gun!</a></p>
<h2>8. Hanging Baskets</h2>
<p>To best utilise the limited water available for hanging baskets and patio pots plant them in <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/compost/miracle-gro-moisture-control-compost-56l/item43191020.html">Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Compost</a> that absorbs twice as much water as ordinary composts.</p>
<h2>9. Water early morning or evening</h2>
<p>Sun and wind speed evaporation from the soil surface.</p>
<h2>10. Use bath water</h2>
<p>If things get desperate you can use bath water, but only on plants growing in garden soil rather than those in containers. Add a tablespoon of <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/plant-food/miracle-gro-ericaceous-plant-food-1kg/item43003340.html">Miracle-Gro Ericaceous Plant Food</a> to every 5 gallons of this &#8216;grey&#8217; water to help neutralise soap alkalines.</p>
<h2>11. Feed in moderation</h2>
<p>In drought conditions use a soluble plant food such as <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/plant-food/miracle-gro-plant-food-2kg/item43003400.html">Miracle-Gro All Purpose Plant Food</a> that is applied in liquid form and use at half strength. Add a teaspoonful to each gallon instead of the usual tablespoonful. A healthy, moderately fed plant will utilise water more efficiently than an underfed plant.</p>
<h2>12. Don&#8217;t waste water on sick plants</h2>
<p>Pull up weak or dying plants and save precious water for the survivors.</p>
<p>Always read the label. Use pesticides safely. Weedol 2 and Weedol Gun! contains diquat. Weedol, Levington and Miracle-Gro are Trade Marks of The Scotts Company or its affiliates.</p>
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		<title>Your Guide to a Better lawn</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/your-guide-to-a-better-lawn/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/your-guide-to-a-better-lawn/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:44:18 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[Easy hints and tips to ensure your lawn is the envy of the neighbourhood.





Cut to 4cm in Spring


1. Cut it regularly
Cut as often as you are able, ideally once a week. But don’t give the grass a close shave. That just weakens the plants and provides light and space for weeds to pop up.
For a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3>Easy hints and tips to ensure your lawn is the envy of the neighbourhood.</h3>
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<td class="captions_sml" align="center">Cut to 4cm in Spring</td>
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<h2>1. Cut it regularly</h2>
<p>Cut as often as you are able, ideally once a week. But don’t give the grass a close shave. That just weakens the plants and provides light and space for weeds to pop up.</p>
<p>For a hard-wearing lawn cut the grass to around 4cm (1 ½&#8221;) in spring and reduce this to 3cm (1&#8243;) in summer.</p>
<h2>2. Spring into Action</h2>
<p>Apply a lawn food in spring for a thicker, greener lawn and you’ll be amazed at the results. It takes about five minutes to treat the average sized lawn of 100m2. We recommend you apply <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/lawncare/lawn-food/evergreen-complete-lawn-care-360m2/item43191010.html">EverGreen &#8220;I want Complete lawn care&#8221;</a> in the spring to give triple-action benefits. One application in April or May gives fast-acting and long-lasting greener grass whilst controlling a wide range of broad-leaved weeds and any unsightly patches of moss.</p>
<h2>3. Be ready for Summer</h2>
<p>By June the lawn will need another feed to strengthen it ready for summer activities. Weeds may have sprung up in the lawn and will be fighting the grass for available moisture, food and space. A further treatment with <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/lawncare/lawn-food/evergreen-complete-lawn-care-360m2/item43191010.html">EverGreen &#8220;I want Complete lawn care&#8221;</a> will both feed and green the grass for the summer and see off many invasive weeds such as dandelions, daisies and white clover. If fine leaved weeds such as yellow suckling clover, black medick and lesser trefoil are spreading in your lawn then you will need to apply Verdone Extra to these weeds. This special lawn weedkiller contains three active ingredients to see off most lawn weeds with just one application a year.</p>
<h2>4. Trim the edges</h2>
<p>After mowing the grass, trim around the edges of the lawn to provide a sharp contrast against the soil of your flower borders. We recommend <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/garden-tools/yeoman-border-shear/item43190340.html">long-handled lawn shears</a> so that you can do the job standing up. Alternatively you can fit <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/lawncare/gard-edge-16m-x-015m/item43026180.html">Gard Edge edging strips</a> around the lawn to reduce the sideways creep of the grass into the borders.</p>
<h2>5. Water Occasionally</h2>
<p>If a summer drought threatens, water the lawn thoroughly before hose-pipe bans prevent any extra watering. Water deeply or not at all. If you use a <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/watering/sprinklers/cat126.html">sprinkler</a> check that the grass receives at least an inch of moisture so that it gets down to the grass roots. If you just wet the surface you encourage shallow roots that will be more vulnerable to drought. You will find that water pressure is higher early in the morning, rather than in the evening when most other people will be watering their gardens.</p>
<h2>6. Spreading Lawn Treatments</h2>
<p>On larger lawns you can spread <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/lawncare/lawn-food/evergreen-complete-lawn-care-360m2/item43191010.html">EverGreen &#8220;I want Complete lawn care&#8221;</a> using a  <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/lawncare/lawn-food/evergreen-easy-speader/item43004590.html">Scotts EvenGreen Easy Spreader</a> for easy and accurate application of granules. It’s adjustable for most lawn treatments and durable for years of easy lawn care.</p>
<h2>7. Autumn Treat</h2>
<p>To help your lawn recover from the hard wear of summer and to prepare it for the rigours of winter, apply <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/lawncare/lawn-food/evergreen-autumn-lawnfood-400m2/item43004520.html">EverGreen Autumn Lawnfood</a> during September or October. This will encourage strong growth of the lawn helping it to thicken and knit together during the cooler autumn months ready to spring into action next spring.</p>
<p>Always read the label. Use pesticides safely. EverGreen “I want Complete lawn care” contains MCPA, mecoprop-P and ferrous sulphate. Verdone Extra contains fluroxypyr, clopyralid and MCPA. EverGreen “I want Complete Autumn lawn care” contains ferrous sulphate.</p>
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		<title>Get Tough on Weeds</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/get-tough-on-weeds/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/get-tough-on-weeds/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:44:06 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[1.Keep paths and patios clean
Gravel paths and drives are often subject to grass and weed attack. But you can keep these areas weed-free with just one application of Pathclear Season Long, applied when the weeds are beginning to appear. Choose a dry day when rain is not expected in April when weeds are small and [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>1.Keep paths and patios clean</h2>
<p>Gravel paths and drives are often subject to grass and weed attack. But you can keep these areas weed-free with just one application of <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/weedkiller/pathclear-6-sachet/item43024560.html">Pathclear Season Long</a>, applied when the weeds are beginning to appear. Choose a dry day when rain is not expected in April when weeds are small and actively growing. This magical weedkiller not only kills the weeds that are present but it also prevents new weeds from germinating for up to 3 months and under ideal condition may be controlled for up to 6 months.</p>
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<h2>2. Control weeds between plants</h2>
<p>Weeds between shrubs, perennials, vegetables and fruit are an unsightly nuisance. But they can be controlled quickly and easily with either <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/weedkiller/weedol-2-fast-acting-weedkiller-6-sachet/item43024590.html">Weedol 2</a> or the ready-to-use <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/weedkiller/weedol-1l-ready-to-use/item43003600.html">Weedol 2 Gun!</a></p>
<p>These products can be used around all plants without harming the soil - in fact seeds or plants can be sown once the liquid has dried. And they are also rainproof in 10 minutes so light showers won’t affect it working. Just spray the weeds you want dead and watch them wilt and die in just a few days. Just remember to keep the liquid off wanted plants - it will kill your precious bedding plants just as easily as grasses and annual weeds such as groundsel, chickweed, annual meadowgrass and dead nettle.</p>
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<h2>3. Control weeds on the lawn</h2>
<p>You need a selective weedkiller that kills the weeds without harming the grass. Verdone Extra Ready to Use kills weeds, not lawns! Just point and spray the weeds and they will gradually curl up and die. One treatment gives season-long control of even difficult weeds, including common mouse-ear, black meddick and lesser trefoil. For best results we recommend you treat the weeds between mowings. Wait 4 days after mowing so there is good leaf are to absorb the weedkiller and wait another 4 days after treatment so the weedkiller is totally absorbed down to the roots.</p>
<h2>4. Kill the tough weeds</h2>
<p>Deep rooted weeds such as ground elder, bindweed and couch grass are a big problem that any amount of digging just won’t shift completely. That’s when you need the power of Roundup to kill the weed and kill the root. Because Roundup is systemic it needs to have a few hours on the leaf so that the glyphosate weedkiller can be completely absorbed. It is best to choose a warm dry day when no rain is expected. Spray the leaves of the weeds thoroughly on a day that is not windy as drifts on to the foliage of your wanted shrubs and trees could be fatal. Leave the weeds undisturbed for at least a fortnight so the weedkiller has time to move to the end of the root system. After this time it’s safe to clear away the top growth and tidy up the area.</p>
<p>Always read the label. Use pesticides safely. Pathclear® Season Long and Pathclear Gun!™ Season-Long contain glyphosate, oxidiazon and diflufenican. Verdone® Extra and Verdone® Extra RTU contain floroxypyr, clopyralid and MCPA. The Roundup family of weedkillers contain glyphosate. Weedol® 2 and Weedol 2 Gun!™ contain diquat.</p>
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		<title>Patio Gardening Tips</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/patio-gardening-tips/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/patio-gardening-tips/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:43:37 +0000</pubDate>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/?p=6</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Patio Gardening Tips
A beautiful flower filled patio is an essential part of most homes. But plants in pots, tubs and hanging baskets rely on you completely to provide all their needs in terms of water, nutrients and care. Here are some hints and tips to make your job much easier and to guarantee you a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Patio Gardening Tips</h2>
<p>A beautiful flower filled patio is an essential part of most homes. But plants in pots, tubs and hanging baskets rely on you completely to provide all their needs in terms of water, nutrients and care. Here are some hints and tips to make your job much easier and to guarantee you a patio display to be proud of.</p>
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<h2>1. Perk up plants in existing pots</h2>
<p>Apply a slow release plant food early in spring. They provide vital nutrients so that your established plants will soon be growing strongly and overflowing with flowers. <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/plant-food/miracle-gro-controlled-release-plant-food-tablets/item43189470.html">Miracle-Gro Controlled Release Plant Food Tablets</a> are ideal as they go on feeding the whole summer through!</p>
<h2>2. Plant up fresh pots of bedding plants</h2>
<p>For a real sizzling display, plant up tubs full of flowering plants. Empty your pots of last year’s compost and scrub out the inside. Line absorbent terracotta pots with sheets of plastic to reduce water loss through the porous sides. Now fill your containers with fresh potting compost that is rich in nutrients. For best results we recommend <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/compost/miracle-gro-56l-all-purpose-compost/item43189420.html">Miracle-Gro All Purpose Compost</a>. This contains many more nutrients and special wetting agents to absorb more water. As a planting idea pick your favourite bush fuchsia for a centre piece and surround the edges with trailing ivy-leaved geraniums or petunias.</p>
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<h2>3. Plant up hanging baskets</h2>
<p>Hanging baskets need regular watering to thrive and depend on you completely for their care. To make your job as easy as possible, there is <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/compost/miracle-gro-moisture-control-compost-56l/item43191020.html">Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Compost</a>. It contains enough nutrients to feed your hanging basket plants for the rest of the season and is specially improved so that it holds twice as much water as ordinary multi-purpose composts.</p>
<p>Line the basket with either moss or a special liner and then add a layer of compost. Make holes through the side of the basket and position the roots of some trailing plants onto the compost layer. Wrapping the roots in a cone of newspaper will help to protect the delicate root system while it’s pushed through the holes. Add another layer of compost and add more trailing plants around the edge of the basket. Plant the centre of the basket with an upright plant to give height and stature. Water the basket thoroughly and protect from frost until the middle of May.</p>
<h2>4. Use a water retaining gel</h2>
<p>If you prefer to plant up in your favourite compost you can still add some water retaining crystals to ordinary growing compost so that it absorbs more water and releases it to plant roots whenever required. <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/water-saving/miracle-gro-moisture-control-gel/item43025900.html">Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Gel</a> can be quickly mixed into ordinary composts before you plant up this year’s bedding plants, or dug into the compost of permanently planted shrubs and trees growing in pots around the patio. The gel crystals absorb four hundred times their own weight in water thereby reducing how many times the compost needs to be watered and the effort of watering. The benefit that plants receive is that they have a reservoir of water to draw on, whenever the roots need it.</p>
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<h2>5. Watch out for greenfly and blackfly</h2>
<p>Aphids come in all manner of colours and are most often seen on new stems and especially on the underside of leaves. The <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/pest-control/fly-killers-and-traps/bug-clear-800ml-gun/item43003290.html">BugClear Gun!</a> will see off these sap-sucking pests quickly and easily.</p>
<h2>6. Feed as easy as water</h2>
<p>Miracle-Gro have introduced a new watering and feeding system this year called Liquafeed. Just connect to your hosepipe and you can either water or feed your patio and garden in minutes. There’s no mixing and no measuring. Simply screw a bottle of <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/growing/plant-food/miracle-gro-liquafeed/item43191030.html">Miracle-Gro Liquafeed Plant Food</a> into the sprayer and away you go.</p>
<p>Always read the label. Use pesticides safely. BugClear Gun! contains bifentrin. Levington, Miracle-Gro and BugClear Gun! are trade marks of The Scotts Company or its affiliates.</p>
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		<title>Fleas: the unwelcome tropical visitor that hitches a ride to your home</title>
		<link>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/fleas-the-unwelcome-tropical-visitor-that-hitches-a-ride-to-your-home/</link>
		<comments>http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/blog/fleas-the-unwelcome-tropical-visitor-that-hitches-a-ride-to-your-home/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:43:12 +0000</pubDate>
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		<description><![CDATA[The common flea has survived all nature has to throw at it for 100 million years so it’s unlikely that the problem will simply go away.





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The creepy facts are that fleas can jump 150 times their own length and can live for 100 days without a blood meal.
In its 2-3 month life span the female [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The common flea has survived all nature has to throw at it for 100 million years so it’s unlikely that the problem will simply go away.</p>
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<p>The creepy facts are that fleas can jump 150 times their own length and can live for 100 days without a blood meal.</p>
<p>In its 2-3 month life span the female flea can lay 2000 eggs so if you see one flea it’s likely there are 100 others looming nearby.</p>
<p>It will soon be the time of year when fleas enter the home looking for warmth. Of course, pet owners are particularly vulnerable with the insects hitching lift indoors on the family cat or dog.</p>
<p>The cat and dog flea is a tropical insect and cannot tolerate freezing temperatures for long periods but is well adapted for indoor living.</p>
<p>But help is on hand from Godfrey with their STV range of poison free pest control products.</p>
<p>Try the <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/pest-control/flea-killers/flea-killer/item43189010.html">STV flea killer</a> that mimics warm-blooded hosts to attract fleas from carpet and bedding over a 10-metre radius.</p>
<p>Fleas are trapped on the special adhesive disc, which should be replenished every 2-4 weeks.  <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/pest-control/flea-killers/flea-killer-refill-disks-triple-pack/item43189020.html">Replacement discs</a> and <a href="http://www.godfrey-diy.co.uk/pest-control/flea-killers/flea-killer-spare-lamp-twin-pack/item43189030.html">replacement lamps</a> are readily available from  Godfrey</p>
<p>This easy to use poison free flea control from STV constantly monitors infestations and is used as an effective control in many commercial pet areas including kennels and catteries.</p>
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