SPRING HOME
Featuring Spring Home Improvement and Lawn & Garden
A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO
MANCHESTER NEWSPAPERS
Perfect spring projects Great financing advice Important home safety checks
April 2018
Roof Repairs Grass care 101 How to stop weeds cold Take care of your trees Get rid of pesky spring pests
2 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 3
Home
Improvement
Home improvement projects perfect for spring
T
he rejuvenating spirit of spring makes this beloved season an ideal time for homeowners to take stock of their homes and properties and address any issues that arose during the winter. While some homes make it through winter unscathed, the harsh weather of the year’s coldest season can add several tasks to homeowners’ springtime to-do lists. While some projects are best left to the professionals, others can be tackled even by those homeowners with little or no DIY experience. The following are a handful of projects tailor-made for spring.
n Inspect the gutters
Gutters tend to bear the brunt of harsh winter weather, and come spring gutters are in need of inspection if not repair. Winter winds, snow and heavy rainfall can compromise the effectiveness of gutters, which can easily accumulate debris and detach from homes during winter storms. In addition, gutters sometimes develop leaks over the winter months. As a result, homeowners should conduct a careful inspection of their gutters come the spring, being sure to look for leaks while clearing the gutters of debris and reattaching gutters that might have become detached from the home on windy winter days and nights. When reattaching loose gutters, make sure the downspouts are
n Take stock of roof shingles
Much like its gutters and downspouts, a home’s roof can suffer significant damage over the course of a typical winter. Shingles may be lost to harsh winter winds and storms, so homeowners should examine the roof to determine if any shingles were lost (lost shingles might even be lying around the property) or suffered damage that’s considerable enough to require replacement. Summer can be especially brutal on shingles, especially those that suffered significant damage during the winter. If left unchecked or unaddressed, problems with damaged shingles can quickly escalate into larger issues when spring rains and summer sun inevitably arrive, so homeowners should prioritize fixing or replacing damaged shingles as quickly as possible.
n Check for freeze damage
Frozen temperatures can be hard on humans and homes alike, but unlike humans who can stay inside when temperatures dip below freezing, homes are forced to withstand the elements throughout the winter. External hose faucets are often susceptible to freeze damage. To inspect such faucets, turn
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draining away from the foundation, as gutters that are not draining properly can cause damage to that foundation and possibly lead to flooding.
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the water on and then place a thumb or finger over the opening of the faucet. If your thumb or finger can completely stop the flow of water, the pipe where the water is coming from is likely damaged and will need to be replaced.
n Examine the lawn for low spots
Once a lawn has thawed out, home-
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owners can patrol their properties looking for low spots in the yard or even low spots within spitting distance of the home’s foundation. Such spots increase the likelihood of flooding. Flooding near a home’s foundation increases the risk of potentially costly damage, while low spots on the lawn that go ignored can
See SPRING, pg. 5
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4 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Thank you to all our customers for the last 25 years! • • • •
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 5
Home
Improvement
Home improvement tips learned the hard way
T
is the season for home improvement projects, and weekend warriors will soon be visiting home supply retailers to buy everything from paint to plywood. There are many advantages to making home improvements on your own, including the opportunity to test your mettle at projects big and small. Many a novice DIY-er has learned the ups and downs of home improvement through trial and error. But the following are a handful of lessons first-timers can heed before beginning their maiden voyages into the world of DIY home improvements.
n Measure twice, cut once.
Perhaps this is the best-known mantra of home improvement, yet many still ignore it. Whether you’re anxious to get started or simply because you still cannot convert metric to standard formula, you must take the time to measure twice before cutting. Learning that you’re a hair too short later will prove frustrating and time-consuming and often necessitates a last-minute run to the store for more materials. Always measure multiple times before making cuts.
n Enlist a helper. Having a partner helping with the work is the most efficient way to tackle a project. This person can assist you with heavy lifting or moving things or by holding the ladder or simply passing tools your way. He or she also can manage work while you make another run to the home center for more supplies. Having a helper around also provides companionship during tedious projects. n Lighten the load. You run the
risk of injury, both to yourself and your belongings, if you attempt to move heavy items on your own. When moving heavy items, take steps to lighten your load. For example, empty or remove drawers from desks and dressers before moving them. Rely on sliding pads when moving furniture so items can be slid into place instead of lifted. Always ask a buddy to help move especially heavy items.
look for a paint that blends a primer within to achieve better coverage. And while you are ensuring a proper paint job, remember to use painter’s tape or an edging product to help keep paint off
Spring Continued from page 3 make great breeding grounds for insects, including mosquitoes, when the weather warms up. When low spots are detected, fill them in with compacted soil. Compacted soil can prevent spring rains from flooding a yard or damaging a home’s foundation. Assessing potential property damage is a rite of passage for homeowners in the spring. Though some damage is significant, oftentimes even novice DIY-ers can work their homes and properties back into shape in time to enjoy spring.
n Use the right tools. The right tools make work safer and easier. Think about how much faster you can cut
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See TIPS, pg. 6
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n Prime before painting. Painting
can be a time-consuming task. In an effort to save time, some people will look for painting shortcuts, and these may include skipping the priming portion of painting. Priming helps to cover existing paint color and prevent bleedthrough of stains or darker hues to the next coat of paint. Failure to use a primer could mean having to paint coat after coat, which can become costly and take up a significant amount of time. Always rely on a priming product, or
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6 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Tips Continued from page 5 using the wrong tools for the job can cost you time and increase your risk of injury.
n Turn electricity off at the panel box. Be especially cautious when work-
ing with electricity, turning off the current. This means shutting down the power on the breaker box. A live wire can provide a minor shock or lead to serious injury. Take the extra time to ensure the power is off before working with any exposed wiring.
n Expect the unexpected. Although many renovation projects go off without a hitch, you never know what you might uncover when you embark on repairs or remodels. Homeowners have come across all sorts of hidden problems when doing seemingly minor repairs. Removal of drywall may uncover insect damage in beams or indications of water infiltration. Some people take down old paneling, only to discover it was covering heavily damaged walls beneath. One repair project can run into another when home improvements are being made. Always leave breathing room in your budget and schedule extra time for unforeseen tasks as well.
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According to the U.S. Department of Energy, controlling moisture in a home can make the home more energy-efficient. Controlling moisture improves the effectiveness of air sealing and insulation, decreasing heating and cooling costs and helping to conserve energy as a result. The DOE notes that moisture problems can exist anywhere building components are below grade. This can include basements, crawlspaces and slab-ongrade foundations. Basements are notorious for moisture issues, but such problems can be prevented. Basement water leakage is most often the byproduct of water flowing through holes or cracks in the basement walls. Water also may wick into the cracks and pores of building materials such as masonry blocks, concrete or wood. Homeowners who suspect they have moisture problems in their basements should consult with a professional contractor, as the correct approach to fixing the issue may depend on a host of factors, including local climate, the style of construction and the existing insulation.
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 7
Home
Improvement
How you can finance your home improvement projects Many homeowners recognize that improving and maintaining a property makes a home more livable for its inhabitants and more attractive to prospective buyers when the time comes to erect a 'For Sale' sign in the front yard. But a well-maintained home also provides additional benefits. According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, home improvements not only raise the values of individual homes, but they tend to raise neighborhood standards as well. Home improvements can create jobs and help local communities flourish economically. Maintaining a home can be a costly undertaking. Home improvement projects can be expensive whether homeowners hire professionals or tackle renovation projects on their own. The following are a handful of options homeowners can consider as they look for ways to finance renovation projects. n Paying outright: Paying for the renovations upfront and in full is perhaps the simplest way to finance a project. Homeowners who have the cash to pay for renovations outright won't have to worry about interest rates or balloon payments. n Mortgage refinancing: Some homeowners tap into their home equity to cover home remodeling projects. Refinancing a mortgage means paying off the debt owed and starting over with a completely new loan. Refinancing
comes with various fees and can cost between 3 and 6 percent of the loan's principal. n Home equity loans and lines of credit: Both of these options are commonly referred to as second mortgages. When homeowners apply for home equity loans or lines of credit, they are borrowing against the equity value in their homes. A home equity loan is a term, or closed-end, loan. It is a one-time sum that will be paid off over a set amount of time with a fixed interest rate and the same payment each month. This is a one-time loan from which a person cannot borrow further. A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is like having a credit card. It's possible to borrow a certain amount for the life of the loan, which is a set time specified by the lender. During this time, homeowners can withdraw money as it is needed up
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n Borrow against retirement funds: Some people opt to borrow against a 401(k) plan, IRA or another retirement fund. If the retirement plan allows a loan without penalty, it can be another way to secure funds. Because it
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n Title I property loan: Residents of the United States with limited equity in their homes may qualify for an FHA Title I loan. Banks and other lenders are qualified to make these loans from their own funds, and the FHA will insure the lender against a possible loss. Title I loans can be used for any improvements that will make a home more useful and livable. They cannot be used for renovations deemed luxury expenses.
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to the value of the line of credit. HELOCs typically have a variable interest rate that fluctuates and payments c a n vary depending on the amount of money borrowed and the current interest rates.
is the homeowner's money, there will be no credit check required and less delay in getting the funds. Borrowers should keep in mind that taking a loan against a retirement account will usually result in a lower retirement balance than it would have been had they not borrowed money from the account even after the funds have been repaid. n Credit cards: Credit cards are an option when improvements are not expensive. Individuals with excellent credit ratings may qualify for cards with a no-interest introductory periods of several months or more. These cards can be a good way to pay off moderate improvements in a short amount of time. Many home renovation projects require homeowners to develop a home improvement budget. Homeowners are urged to explore all options and find the least costly loan method and the one that will present the best possibility for avoiding debt.
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8 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Home
Improvement
5 important signs your roof might be wearing down Replacing a roof is a costly venture few homeowners look forward to. According to Remodeling magazine’s 2010-11 “Cost vs. Value” report, the national average cost of a roof replacement is nearly $22,000, a costly endeavor considering the tenuous nature of the economy. What’s more, homeowners who choose more upscale roofing materials can expect to spend almost $40,000 on their roofs. Such costs make it no small wonder that many homeowners fear the dreaded diagnosis that their home needs a new roof. While there’s little homeowners can do to reduce the cost of a roof replacement, there are warning signs homeowners can look for that might indicate a roof replacement is on the horizon. Recognition of these signs can help homeowners be more financially prepared should the day come when the roof needs to be replaced.
1. The presence of algae
If the roof has lots of dark streaks and stains clinging to it, that is likely algae, which can grow on the roof for quite awhile. Algae does not necessarily do any damage to a roof, but it does do some damage to a home’s physical appearance, as algae on the roof is not very pleasing to the eye. Algae is most often found on the roofs of homes located in climates that have warm, humid summers. If algae is a problem on your roof, spray washing with a mixture of water and bleach can effectively remove it.
2. Buckling shingles
Like algae, buckling shingles are another unsightly problem on a roof. But buckling shingles are more than just an eyesore, they actually might indicate significant problems. When shingles buckle, that’s typically because hot air from the attic is forcing the shingles away from the home. Buckling shingles also indicate that the roof is poorly ventilated, which can take years off the roof ’s Should a roof exhibit any signs of decay, life expectancy homeowners should address those issues while driving immediately to avoid further damage.
up home cooling costs along the way.
3. Granule loss
Granule loss is typically a byproduct of normal shingle wear and tear that results from inclement weather, such as hail. Older roofs might experience granule loss, but granule loss can also occur on a new roof if a defective roofing product was used. Any granule loss, even if slight, should be addressed, as the side effects of granule loss include a weakened roof and leaking. If granule loss is not addressed, the consequences could be severe the next time a storm occurs.
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Unlike the warning signs already discussed, mold is not visible on the outside of the home. Instead, homeowners should look in the attic of a home to see if there is any mold growth. If there is, the roof is likely leaking, and the health risks of mold growth in a home are substantial. Mold is not necessarily easy to detect, so a professional inspection might be in order if mold growth is suspected. If a professional determines mold is, in fact, present, then the mold will need to be removed and all options, including a roof replacement, must be considered to keep mold from coming back.
5. Roof rot
Perhaps the most discouraging sign a homeowner can see on his or her roof is roof rot. Roof rot appears when a roof is in considerable decay and, if not addressed, its consequences can stretch far beyond the roof, damaging other parts of the home thanks in large part to water getting through the roof. If roof rot is either not noticed or just ignored, it won’t take long for water to get through the roof and blaze a destructive path through the rest of the home. Homeowners might fear a full roof replacement because of the cost associated with such a project. But if ignored, problems with a roof could eventually prove far more costly than the price of replacing the roof.
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 9
Paint and primer 101
P
ainting is a job that requires preparation and the right equipment. Oftentimes homeowners are unsure about whether they need to use primer before painting or if just paint will do the trick. Although there are no firm rules, there are certain cases where one or the other will be adequate. Consider a room where the walls have been heavily stained, either by moisture infiltration, rust or another factor. Deep-set stains may bleed through regular paint, therefore a primer should be applied to help block and lock-in the stain. When a room had previously been painted in a very dark color, like red or purple, a primer can help c o ve r the color quickly without the need for multiple applications of regular paint. There also are specialized primers that can be used in rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms that often contain a lot of moisture. These primers inhibit the growth of mold and mildew on painted surfaces. Primers also may be used on materials, such as metal or plastic, to help the colored paint stick to the surface of the item. If a room is only to be painted white or tinted slightly with color, then a primer alone can be used. Certain primers seal porous wall surfaces so they do not absorb paint, requiring more coats for coverage. Rooms that are being painted that are already white and free of stains or other surface abnormalities may be painted sufficiently with just a coat of regular paint. If skipping primer, look for a high-quality, thick paint that boasts good coverage in one or two coats. There are new products today that offer primer and paint all in one combination. The jury is still out on the efficacy of these new items, but homeowners can experiment with these paints to see if they work for them. Keep in mind that the cost of a combination product may be more than traditional paint and primer
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10 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Home
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5 important ways to increase home fire safety minutes or seconds to escape. When An average of seven Americans die going over the details of your escape each week as a result of house fires. Most fires occur in residential buildings plan, check windows and doors to ensure all open easily. Know your local between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., emergency number when occupants (911). Never stop to are most likely to gather belongings or be asleep. Your reenter a home after first line of safely outside. defense is fire preparedness. n When renovatHere's five ing, consider using things you can do fire-rated, noncomto increase your bustible products. chance of survivYour choice of insual in a fire: lation, for example, n Install can be vital. Stone smoke alarms wool insulation, like on every story that produced by of your home Roxul, resists temand outside peratures up to sleeping areas. approximately 2,150 Be sure to test F. When directly them monthly, exposed to fire, it clean them every will not off-gas, consix months and tribute to toxic replace batteries smoke or promote in spring and fall. flames. Fire-resistant Having working building materials Be sure to replace smoke detector bat- can give you extra fire alarms can cut your chance of teries each spring and fall. time to escape when dying in a fire in seconds count. half ! n Purchase a multi-use fire ladder n Have a fire escape plan for your for each bedroom in your home and family and practice it. A small fire can spread rapidly - you may only have See FIRE, pg. 11
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 11
Home
Improvement
Important home safety checks to complete today A new kitchen or a bathroom remodeling job might be dream projects for many homeowners, but the right home improvement project at a given moment is not necessarily the most glamorous project. Sometimes safety upgrades around the house must take precedence over more popular projects. Accidents or injuries can occur in any part of the home, but homeowners who take certain preventative measures can greatly reduce their injury risk. The security resource A Secure Life points out that more than 18,000 Americans die every year from injuries that take place in the home. Unintentional injuries account for millions of medical visits each year. Home injuries also are prevalent elsewhere in the world. In the United Kingdom, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents reports that there are approximately 6,000 deaths every year that result from accidents at home. Periodic inspections for potential hazards can keep everyone safe. The following are a handful of ways for homeowners to ensure their homes are as
to fires, and poor safe as possible. wiring may cause n Check for sturunforeseen probdy handrails and lems behind walls. prevent tripping Repair or replace hazards. Falls are any loose or frayed one of the leading wires on all electricauses of home injucal devices. Be sure ries. Falls can be a that cords do not particular threat for run under dooryoungsters and the ways or rugs. elderly. To help preReplace outlets vent falls, make sure that are in disrethat staircases feapair and install ture sturdy railings ones with groundand that there is fault current interample lighting in ruptors as an walkways. Remove added precaution. obstructions from If small children frequently used live in the home, paths inside and outside the home. In Check faulty wiring and replace any use plastic safety covers over unused addition, insert non- outlets that are not working. outlets. slip padding beneath runners or throw rugs. n Practice window safety. Young chiln Check for frayed wires or faulty outlets. Address any electrical problems around the house, including frayed wiring and faulty outlets. Sparks can lead
dren are curious and do not always recognize the inherent dangers around them. Children excited to see the great outdoors may climb up to peer out win-
dows, and open windows are falling hazards. Screens do not offer an adequate barrier against falls. Consider locking windows or use safety bars to guard against falls. Test to see how easily screens can be pushed out, replacing any that do not provide adequate resistance to curious youngsters' hands. n Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors at least twice per year, and test them to make sure theyÕre in good working order at least once per month. The National Fire Protection Association recommends replacing hard-wired smoke alarms every 10 years. Battery-operated alarms may need to be replaced even sooner. Many carbon monoxide detectors work for five to seven years. Check the back of alarms for a date stamp that indicates how old the product is and when it expires. Safety checklists are an important part of home maintenance. A proactive approach can prevent both injuries and damage to the home.
Fire Continued from page 10 practice using it. A fire ladder may be your only escape option if flames block critical exits. n Place fire extinguishers on every level of your home, especially in high-risk areas like the kitchen, near fireplaces and in the garage. Use only for small, contained fires that are not spreading rapidly. Know how to operate your extinguisher before an emergency occurs using the PASS method: Pull pin, Aim low, Squeeze lever and Sweep from side to side. The safest option is always to evacuate your home and call for help. Fire prevention measures are a serious matter in every home. Find out how to keep your home and family safe at nfpa.org or improve your fire safety knowledge by visiting the Roxul website.
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Did you know? Debris from home improvement projects can often be recycled. According to Waste Management, the largest residential recycler and renewable energy provider in North America, common construction materials such as concrete, porcelain, tile, lumber, metals, masonry, plastic, carpet, and insulation can potentially be recycled. When recycled, debris from construction projects may ultimately be used in various ways to benefit the planet. For example, such debris may used as inerts that become road base, while clear wood may be transformed into mulch or biomass fuel. Crushed concrete can go on to live a second life as gravel or become dry aggregate for new concrete. Homeowners who want to recycle as much of their home improvement project debris as possible can work with Waste Management and/or their contractors to ensure the materials they no longer need continue to be put to good use.
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12 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Home
Improvement
Improving attic ventilation benefits roof and more
H
omeowners are often interested in projects to improve the aesthetic appeal of their homes, particularly those that may increase the curb appeal of their properties. But some projects, including improving attic ventilation, can benefit a home even when they aren’t especially eye-catching. Attic venting preserves the life of a roof while improving the energy effi-
ciency of a home. Although it may seem counterproductive to let air into the attic when you are sealing drafts elsewhere in the home, there is rhyme and reason to venting an attic throughout the year.
n What is attic ventilation?
Attic ventilation is a system of air intake and exhaust that creates a flow of air through the attic. In the summer-
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n Improving attic air flow
Many attics already contain passive ventilation in the form of vents or ventilation strips built into the edge of the
See ROOFS, pg. 13
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 13
Roofs Continued from page 12
often an effective remedy to these issues.
n Attic fan 101
The installation of an attic fan is best left to a professional, as it requires roof. Other vents may appear in gables running wiring to the fan and it may or eaves. Some homeowners prefer the necessitate cutting into the roof for addition of an attic fan to work in conventing. Many cert with existing ventfans work with a ing. The spring season thermostat and is an ideal time to have will turn on an attic fan installed when the air because the weather is temperature in temperate, making it the attic reaches easier to work up in the a certain temperattic. ature. The fan According to Natural will circulate the Light Energy Systems, air, helping to attic temperatures can keep the attic exceed 160 F on hot cooler and dryer. summer days. Proper Also, the fan can attic ventilation can help expel fumes reduce those temperafrom cooking or tures by up to 40 F, proappliances from longing the life of the the home. roof. Attic ventilation Canada Go also reduces the load on Green notes that heating and cooling sysattic fans can tems. No matter how reduce energy much insulation is in bills consideran attic, some transfer ably by making of attic air will occur HVAC systems between the home and work more effithe attic, and that transciently. Keeping fer makes heating and attics cool and air conditioning sysdry may also tems run longer and harder to compensate. Roof ventilation creates a flow of air reduce how frethrough the attic. quently HVAC Homeowners who systems need to notice their HVAC sysbe turned on or at which temperatures tems running endlessly to keep the thermostats in the home are set. home comfortable can benefit from Improving attic ventilation may not improved attic ventilation, as can those add much to a home’s curb appeal, but homeowners whose attics feature moissuch a project can save homeowners ture damage in the way of rusty nails money and provide year-round benefits. or moldy wood framing. An attic fan is
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14 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Home
Improvement
Spring cleaning can help you alleviate allergies Allergies affect people of all ages. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology reports that allergic rhinitis affects between 10 and 30 percent of the world's population. In addition, the prevalence of allergic diseases has risen in industrialized nations for more than 50 years. Seasonal allergies tend to be the strongest in spring and autumn.
Allergies can be exacerbated by many factors, including in homes where improvements are being made. Regular housecleaning can remove many common allergy triggers and help alleviate symptoms. Knowing which common home improvement mistakes can aggravate allergies can help homeowners avoid them.
n Suit up
Before any cleaning begins, allergy sufferers should don face masks and rubber gloves to prevent themselves from breathing in allergens or having them touch their hands, where they can be transferred to the face or elsewhere. Those cleaning should also wear clothes that can be easily removed and laundered after a day's work.
n Clean windows singularly
Prolonged exposure to outdoor allergens, such as pollen, mold or ragweed, can aggravate allergies. Therefore, if windows are being cleaned, do one at a time and then promptly close the window. Having the air conditioning running can help filter the air as well.
n Use exhaust fans
The AAAAI recommends using an exhaust fan in the kitchen and bathrooms to reduce the levels of moisture in these rooms and filter out potential allergens and odors. Moisture can eventually lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which isn't healthy for anyone, including allergy sufferers, to breathe in.
n Invest in a HEPA filter
Vacuums with HEPA filters can trap allergens that are so small that they pass through regular vacuum filters. That means instead of containing them, these small particles are only being shot back into the air where they are easily breathed in. WebMD suggests vacuuming once or twice a week to keep carpets and floors as clean as possible. Plus, donÕt forget to vacuum upholstered furniture and drapes as well.
n Launder with hot water
When it comes time to wash linens, do so in hot water, which can kill dust
See CLEANING, pg. 14
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 15
Cleaning Continued from page 14
Leave carpet and upholstery shampooing to the professionals, as excess moisture can contribute to mold and dust mites, which aggravate allergy symptoms.
mites residing in sheets and blankets. Employ mattress covers to further protect against dust mite allergies.
n Shampoo smart
Shampooing a carpet may cause moisture to become trapped in the carpet fibers, leading to increased dust mites or mold growth. Spot-clean stains instead. Otherwise, hire a professional cleaner who will clean and dry the carpet as quickly as possible.
n Damp dusting is better
When cleaning up dust or home renovation debris, use a damp cloth or a vinegar solution to wipe down surfaces. This helps trap small particles instead of sending them into the air.
n Treat mold issues
Mold can trigger allergic reactions, so it is best to keep it out of a home. Solutions that contain at least 10 percent bleach can be effective at killing
mold, but it's best to prevent mold from growing entirely. That means keeping tabs of any moisture issues and addressing them immediately. Allergies can be problematic, but routine home cleaning in the right way can help alleviate symptoms.
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Need a job improvement? Then be sure to check out Manchester Newspapers employment opportunity sections each week for the largest selection of jobs in the region. We also post all our jobs on our Rutland County Jobs and Washington County Jobs Facebook pages - and they are updated hourly!
16 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Home
Improvement
How to cut costs on your next home project
O
ver the last several decades, more and more homeowners have embraced the notion that homes need not all be alike, and that an individual’s home can cater to his or her personal tastes and needs. The trend of modeling a home after one’s own tastes has extended beyond choosing furniture or other replaceable elements to structural changes and fullscale renovations, thus upping the financial ante for homeowners who want to turn their homes into places more in tune with their own personalities. When it comes to improving their homes, many homeowners associate cutting costs with cutting corners, which can put residents’ safety at risk. But there are ways for homeowners to save money on home improvement projects while still ensuring their homes are safe and sound.
n Work with recycled materials.
Homeowners about to undertake smallscale do-it-yourself projects can often save money by using recycled materials. Many homeowners do not go the DIY route when making larger renovations, but those that do also can save money by using recycled materials. However, homeowners should know that many contractors do not work with recycled materials in an effort to avoid liability should something go awry during the project or after it is completed. But DIYers can benefit from using recycled
tors to do materials, such work which can for them. be purIt’s best for chased at homeownvarious ers to leave locations. interior For examlabor to the ple, Habitat professionfor als, as they Humanity, a are more nonprofit knowledgeorganizaable about tion devoted to build- Homeowners willing and able to chip in on home improve- how to find ing homes ment projects can bring the costs of labor down consider- load-bearing walls for the less ably and plumbfortunate, ing fixtures operates its than the average weekend warrior own ReStores, which are nonprofit home improvement stores that sell recy- homeowner. Homeowners who mistakenly take out fixtures inside their cled building materials at a steep dishomes in an attempt to cut down on count. ReStore locations can be found labor costs might find such miscues are by visiting www.habitat.org. far more costly than simply paying for n Get your hands dirty. Labor costs the labor from the get-go. on home improvement projects are considerable, but homeowners can cut n Remember how flattering imitathese costs by doing some of the labor tion can be. As the old adage goes, themselves. Even those men and women “Imitation is the sincerest form of flatwith little or no DIY experience can still tery.” Homeowners working on tight chip in and save some money. budgets can opt for imitation materials Homeowners about to embark on a that appear and feel just like more costrebuilding project can chip in and do ly authentic materials. When opting for some of the demolition on their own. imitation materials, homeowners For example, when replacing sidewalks, should know that they or their reprehomeowners can simply break up and sentatives cannot falsely represent the remove the existing sidewalk on their materials as authentic when selling the own rather than paying their contrachome, no matter how much materials
look and feel like the real thing.
n Schedule projects during the offseason. Like many professionals,
contractors have busy seasons and seasons that tend to be slow. These seasons can change depending on geography, but homeowners can save money by postponing projects until the slow season, when contractors are more likely to offer discounts in an attempt to stay busy and continue to generate income. Savings will vary depending on a variety of factors, but it’s not unlikely that patient homeowners willing to wait until the offseason to renovate their homes can save as much as 5 percent on the overall cost of the project.
n Try not to customize. Though the driving force behind many home improvement projects is to create a dream home that caters to homeowners’ individual needs, going overboard with customizing is expensive. Larger-thannormal dimensions may seem like a great idea, but unless they’re absolutely necessary, they’re best avoided by budget-conscious homeowners. Building supplies are sold at certain dimensions because those dimensions are the most common. Altering these dimensions unnecessarily is only driving up the cost of the project, so it’s best to stick with stock sizes when money is tight. Home improvement projects are often expensive undertakings, ut such endeavors need not break the bank.
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 17
Lawn
Garden
Fertilizing for beginners
F
ertilizing a lawn is a springtime tradition for many homeowners. Winter can take its toll on a lawn, but fertilizer can go a long way toward helping a lawn recover from harsh weather. While lawn-andgarden enthusiasts might know the ins and outs of fertilizing a lawn, novices might need a little help as they look to restore their lawns.
n Find out what your lawn needs.
Even novice green thumbers likely know that overfertilization can harm a lawn, and that’s a big reason many homeowners approach fertilizing their lawn with some trepidation. A lush lawn adds to the curb appeal of a home, while a lawn that’s patchy or appears to be poorly taken care of can lower property value. Before fertilizing a lawn, homeowners should determine the needs of their lawns. A soil test can determine if the lawn has any nutrient deficiencies.
n Don’t overdo it with nitrogen.
Fertilizing with too much nitrogen is a common mistake, as too much nitrogen can be harmful, decreasing root growth
a mulching and mower. increasing a lawn’s n susceptibilConsider ity to disusing granease. A ules instead slowof spray. release ferSpraying a tilizer may lawn with ferbe an tilizer might option, as seem like the such fertileasiest and izers break quickest way down nutrito fertilize, ents over a but spraying longer periis typically od of time, best left to the which also professionals. allows That’s homeownbecause novers to ices often extend the Knowing the ins-and-outs of fertilizing your lawn is struggle to intervals evenly apply between fer- critical to your lawn's longterm health. the fertilizer tilizing seswhen spraying, sions. But a lawn can get nitrogen from and many do not account for the wind other sources as well. Such sources when spraying fertilizer. A traditional include grass clippings or raked leaves spreader that fertilizes a lawn with left on the lawn after being shredded by granules makes it easier for nonprofes-
sionals to apply the fertilizer accurately and evenly. Before fertilizing with granules, read the package to determine if you need to water the lawn before application, as some fertilizers are only effective when applied to a lawn after it has been watered. Also, be sure to fill the spreader on asphalt instead of the lawn. Chances are you’re going to spill granules when filling the spreader, and such spills can be harmful to the lawn.
n Plan to fertilize several times.
Some homeowners only fertilize twice a year, once in the spring and then once again in the fall. But fertilizer should be applied multiple times throughout the year, beginning in the early spring. The first time to fertilize is when the soil temperature reaches roughly 55 F, which is often evident because grass typically starts to grow again when the soil reaches that temperature. Fertilize again roughly a month after fertilizer is first applied, and then do so every six to eight weeks after through October. Professionals often recommend using an organic material during the third fertilizing session.
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18 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Lawn
Garden
Stop weeds before they take over Few things can be as troublesome to gardeners and landscapers as weeds. Weeds seemingly spring up overnight and quickly can overrun lawns and/or garden beds. Landscaping enthusiasts may spend countless hours and weekends coping with weeds without truly getting to the root of the problem. However, preventing weed growth need not be so difficult. According to the experts at "This Old House" and The Family Handyman, the
secret to preventing weeds is to maintain a thick, healthy lawn. A vigorously growing lawn will crowd out weeds and block the sun weed seeds need to germinate and thrive. As a result, fewer herbicides may be needed and homeowners can spend less times on their hands and knees pulling out weeds.
n Mow at the right height
Crabgrass is a notoriously virulent weed that can quickly snuff out blades of grass. Crabgrass likes hot, dry condi-
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tions, and it weeds or apply only takes weed killers, one plant to timing is key. spread the Combat weeds seeds that in the early can overtake spring before the lawn. they have a Preventing time to fully these condiform and start tions can proliferating stop crabthrough seed grass from dispersement. flourishing. Once seeds Mowing at spread, their higher growth is diffiheights and cult to control. leaving Weeds, such as dandelions, can quickly take over Recognize that grass blades lawns and gardens. no single herbitaller can cide or weeding shade the soil, tactic will work helping to prevent the germination of for every type of weed. Broadleaf crabgrass. Shady conditions also will weeds, like dandelions, unwanted grasshelp the soil retain moisture and prees, and sedges are the three most comvent the arid conditions crabgrass likes mon types of weeds. Homeowners will so much. have to adapt based on the type of weed that is most prevalent in their lawns.
n Water deeply
Weeds are accustomed to growing in adverse conditions, including especially hot temperatures. When such conditions arise, weeds establish deep roots while the roots of the grass can easily die off. Instead, when watering, wet the soil to a depth of four to six inches. This helps grass to establish strong root systems that will help lawns overpower pesky weeds.
Time weed killers
Whether you manually remove
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Strike a balance with fertilizer, finding the right amount to deliver continuous nutrition to the lawn, but not overfeed it so that weeds can thrive. Many lawns only require fertilizer once or twice annually, in the autumn and spring. By following these guidelines, lawn and garden enthusiasts can prevent the proliferation of unsightly and potentially harmful weeds.
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n Watch fertilizer amounts
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 19
Lawn
Garden
How to take good care of your trees Lawns and gardens tend to draw the bulk of homeowners' attention come spring and summer. But it's important that property owners tend to the trees that dot their property as well. The types of trees homeowners have on their property may influence when it's time to trim and prune the trees. Homeowners concerned about tree maintenance should speak with local landscaping professionals and tree services about caring for the trees on their specific properties, but there are a few tricks to pruning trees that homeowners should keep in mind when dusting off their gardening tools.
n Prune at the right time. The Arbor Day Foundation¨ notes that pruning during dormancy (i.e., winter) is the most common practice. Pruning in late winter, after the season's coldest temperatures have passed, can lead to impressive and healthy growth in the spring. The ADF advises that some trees, including maple and birches, may bleed sap during pruning. But this is normal and should cease as the tree starts to bloom. Novice landscapers should confirm with landscaping professionals about the best time to prune trees on their properties to ensure they are not inadvertently harming the trees or making them more vulnerable to fungus. n Use appropriate tools. When removing branches, use sharp tools to minimize damage to the bark. The ADF
n Follow the rules of pruning.
When pruning trees, the ADF advises homeowners follow the one-third and a quarter rules of pruning. In adherence to these rules, no more than a quarter of a tree's crown is removed in a single season, and main side branches are at least one-third smaller than the diameter of the trunk. When trimming deciduous trees, homeowners should never prune up from the bottom more than one-third of the tree's total height. Finally, where possible, homeowners should aim for side branches that form angles that are one-third off vertical to form 10 o'clock or 2 o'clock angles with the trunk.
Trees need water to thrive. notes that young trees are best pruned with one-hand pruning shears with curved blades. For trees with high branches, use a pole pruner or hire a
professional tree service. Novices should avoid anything too risky when pruning their trees, leaving the more difficult jobs to the professionals.
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n Water correctly. Like lawns and gardens, trees need water to thrive. Insufficient watering can make it hard for trees to thrive in summer, but overwatering can be harmful, too. The ADF suggests that watering each tree for 30 seconds with a steady stream of water from a garden hose equipped with a diffuser nozzle should be sufficient. Newly planted trees may need more help as they try to establish deep root systems, so consider laying mulch around newly planted trees. Mulch helps the soil retain moisture and form deeper, stronger root systems. Trees maintenance should be a priority as homeowners once again start tending to their lawns and gardens. More information about caring for trees is available at www.arborday.org.
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20 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Lawn
S
How to rid your lawn of pesky pests
pring is the season when lawn and garden equipment is dusted off, windows are washed and homes are aired out. Spring also is a great time to get started on lawn and garden projects. Early spring might not be warm enough to start planting, but it is a great time to inspect a yard for any property damage or problems, including pests. Small animals like groundhogs can compromise lawn and garden projects. For example, vegetable gardens are prime targets for such pests, while trees and shrubbery offer cozy abodes and camouflage from other predators. Homeowners can grow frustrated by the damage such critters can do to their properties. But identifying the offenders early on can minimize that damage.
n Groundhogs
Garden
Groundhogs are one of 14 species of marmots and are the largest members of the squirrel family. They frequent the areas where woodlands meet open spaces, like streams, roads or fields. Groundhogs feed on grass, plants, fruit and tree bark. They also will feast on home gardens during the summer and fall seasons. Groundhogs are most active during the warm months, when they forage and feast to build up large reserves for winter hibernation. Humane methods of keeping groundhogs at bay include making the area inhospitable. Groundhogs can climb
trees and fencing, but they’re less likely to get into plants if there is a fence around them. Dogs can be preventive as well, as some dogs will chase groundhogs off of the property. The scent of urine can also scare groundhogs off. Using traps to capture and then relocate groundhogs is another option.
their property. While there are traps and poisons available, one of the easiest ways to prevent mole infestation is to remove their
n Moles
Moles are cylindrical mammals that are most comfortable living a subterranean lifestyle. The fur of moles feels similar to velvet, and they have small ears and eyes. Moles also have strong forelimbs with forepaws that have an extra thumb and multiple joints. These help them to burrow underground effectively and hollow out subterranean chambers. The diet of moles is primarily earthworms and small invertebrates found in the soil. The runs they create beneath the surface of the soil are used to trap prey and store it in “larders” for later. Moles are not harmful to lawns and gardens, but they can compromise the aesthetic appeal of lawns and gardens. That is why homeowners often want to prevent moles from making homes on
sources of food. Homeowners also can cut back on watering property and get rid of grubs and other insects. Also, consider installing a mole barrier of aluminum sheeting or hardware cloth by burying these materials between two and three feet deep along the perimeter of a lawn or garden. Cats are natural enemies of moles, so sprinkling cat litter around mole
n Voles
Often mistaken for mice, voles are small rodents with shorter, hairier tails and more stout bodies than mice. Voles are commonly referred to as meadow or field mice, and they feed on small plants and will eat nuts, fruits and even dead animals. Voles will frequently eat succulent root systems and burrow under lawns and gardens. The runways of voles will be shallow, so they aren’t prevalent in frequently cultivated soils. They are also less likely to burrow beneath frequently mowed lawns. Voles do not like open areas. Remove protection like weeds, tall grass, dense vegetation, and heavy mulch to make a yard a less popular habitat. Keep grass adjacent to flower beds or gardens mowed short. If groundhogs, moles and voles become particularly troublesome or infest a yard in great numbers, an exterminator may be needed.
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n Grass is defined as any plant of the family Gramineae, a group of vascular plants that grow across the globe.
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n Twenty percent of Earth’s vegetation is comprised of grass. n Grasses have been transformed into paper and home decor items. Bamboo, which is a type of grass, is frequently used for flooring because it is durable and sustainable. n Grass is mostly comprised of water, which makes up about 80 percent of grass and 90 percent of grass clippings. n A typical lawn will have about six grass plants per square inch. Some lawns may have millions of grass plants. n The average lawn releases enough oxygen to sustain four families of four.
Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 21
Lawn
Garden
When to tackle weeds in your lawn this spring Weeds are the bane of lawn and garden enthusiasts. Weeds can spread rapidly and overrun pristine grass, choking lawns and robbing them of their lush green look. In garden beds, weeds can steal water from thirsty plants, threatening their survival. A proactive approach that prevents weed growth is easier and less frustrating than dealing with weeds after they have sprouted. That means addressing weeds before they release seeds, and not waiting so long that the damage is already done. According to the home and landscape experts with This Old House, spraying herbicide for weeds in June and July can address weeds before seeds are set. Tilling and installing a new lawn in late August or the beginning of September can help the lawn establish itself before the first frosts arrive, all the while avoiding weed growth.
Simple ways to avoid injury while gardening During the winter, many people anxiously await the arrival of warm weather so they can get back outdoors. Gardening is one outdoor activity that attracts many a devotee. Although gardening can be a worthwhile and enjoyable hobby for people of all ages, like other activities, gardening carries certain safety risks, even though few people may give much thought to the risk of getting hurt when gardening. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that gardeners suffer thousands of injuries every year. Many of these injuries involve lawn and garden equipment or accessories used while tending to plants. From lawn mowers to pruners to manual garden tools, gardeners may handle various pieces of equipment that can make them susceptible to injury if they're not careful. To reduce their risk for injury, gardeners can follow these important safety precautions. n Plant gardens in raised garden beds and containers to reduce the need to stoop down to tend to plants. Raised beds are easier on gardeners' backs and knees. n Wear long-sleeved shirts and durable pants to protect arms and legs from branches, thorns and insects. n Remove tripping hazards, such as roots, lumber, rocks, and loose gravel, from the yard at the start of gardening season. n Wear gloves to prevent blisters from forming and to protect hands from any chemical products used in the garden. Gloves also can keep hands clean, ensuring bacteria and fungi do not find their way into open cuts or scrapes. n Vary activities and take periodic breaks so prolonged repetitive motions do not contribute to soreness or injury. n Follow instructions for tools, and always use the right tool for the job.
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The weed control experts at Roundup also suggest a springtime application of weed killer if this is the desired route. Early treatment can prevent weed roots from spreading too far in the soil, which can reduce the chances that weed remnants will be left behind to grow at a later time. Homeowners with small lawns or gardens or those who prefer hand-weeding or using nonchemical ways to treat weeds must take steps to address the weeds early. Gardeners can try suffocating weeds by placing wood, blocks or
plastic over them. Wet newspaper used as mulch can block weed formation and also clear patches of unwanted grass so that garden beds can be mapped out. Pouring boiling water on weeds or pulling them by hand is more effective when roots are young and have not yet spread. The UK-based company Lawnsmith also suggests a mid-spring weed killer application. This ensures that all weeds that have surfaced are addressed and that none are missed by weeding too early.
The Idaho-based Town & Country Gardens suggests lawn and garden enthusiasts wait to tackle weeds. By waiting and applying weed treatments in the fall, when dandelions and other weeds are absorbing food and nutrients in larger quantities to survive winter, homeowners can rid their lawns and gardens of weeds efficiently. Weeds are a nuisance and an eyesore in lawns and gardens. Choosing the right time to treat them can ensure they don't adversely affect lush landscapes and thriving gardens.
22 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Lawn
Garden
Preparing garden beds for spring and beyond Gardening enthusiasts may have been thinking about their landscape plans throughout the winter, eager to once again get their hands dirty with soil. Whether a home gardener is making preparations for edible crops or beautiful flowers, he or she must take time to make the soil amenable to planting. To establish hearty, durable plants, gardeners can focus on three main areas: addressing soil composition, cultivating and adding nutrients.
helps with drainage and oxygen delivery to roots. The DIY Network suggests turning over soil at a depth of 12 inches to work the soil - about the length of a shovel spade. However, the resource Earth Easy says that existing garden beds have a complex soil ecosystem and simply top-dressing with compost or manure can be enough preparation for planting. Gardeners can experiment with the methods that work best for their gardens.
n Soil composition
n Nutrition
Many gardeners prefer growing a variety of plants in their gardens. Such an approach requires taking inventory of the type of soil in one's garden and making the necessary modifications so that the types of vegetables, herbs, shrubs, or flowers that will be planted can grow in strongly. In fact, according to the plant company Proven Winners, the most important step to developing good roots is preparing the soil. Take a sample of the soil and examine it to see what is present. If the soil is too full of clay, too sandy, too dense, or too loose, that can lead to problems where plants cannot grow in strong. Work with a garden center to add the right soil amendments to make a rich soil. This may include organic compost or manure, which will also add nutrients to the soil.
n Cultivation
Cultivating the soil can involve different steps. Removal of weeds, errant rocks, roots, and other items will help prepare the soil. Mother Earth News
Begin preparing garden bed soil early for new plants. suggests working on garden soil when the soil is damp but never wet; otherwise, garden soil can become messy and clumpy. Use a digging fork or shovel to lightly turn the soil when it's mostly
dry. Gentle tillings also can open up the soil to incorporate the nutritional amendments and relieve compaction that likely occurred from freezing temps and snow pressure. Tilling also
Testing the pH and the levels of certain nutrients in the soil, namely nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium, will give gardeners an idea of other soil additions that may be needed. Soils with a pH below 6.2 often can benefit from the addition of lime several weeks before planting. Soil tests will determine just how much fertilizer to add to the soil. Complete fertilizers will have equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium. Individual fertilizers can amend the soil with only these nutritional elements that are needed. Top-dressing empty beds with a layer of mulch or compost can prevent weed growth and preserve moisture until it is time to plant. If existing shrubs or plants are in garden beds, use more care so as not to disturb roots or dig too deeply. Preparing garden beds takes some effort initially, but can be well worth the work when plants flourish throughout the growing season.
Advice on how and when to fertilize your lawn Various components go into creating beautiful, lush lawns. Lawn maintenance involves ensuring lawns have all of the nutrients they need to thrive. Fertilizer is essential when feeding lawns, but fertilizing a lawn involves more than spreading fertilizer around the yard and hoping for the best. Fertilizing is a process that should be done carefully and timed correctly for optimal results. According to Scotts¨, a premier lawn seed and care company, no two lawns are alike and each lawn has different needs. The type of grass and whether a lawn is mostly in the sun or shade may dictate fertilizer requirements. While many lawns are comprised of several different grasses, a general rule of thumb is You can build that the lawn will need to be fertilized in the spring at the very least. After that, fertilization schedules should be customized according to grass type, climate and other factors. Spring is a prime time to fertilize because the lawn is reviving after a long season of cold weather and dormancy. Come spring, lawns need to be fed to turn green and grow. Soil supplies some of the nutrients grass needs, but many soils lack elements that lawns need to survive the growing season. Lawn and
a strong lawn by feeding it effectively. garden experts at Lowes say a healthy and actively growing lawn uses a great deal of energy, and fertilizer will provide the boost it requires. Fertilizer helps promote new root and leaf growth, aid in recovery from damage, reduce weeds, and replace nutrients lost to water runoff.
Fertilizing the right way
Follow these steps to feed the lawn and help it thrive. n Identify the type of grass in
your lawn and consult with a garden center to find the right type of fertilizer for your grass. Many grasses are categorized by season and may be referred to as cool season, transitional or warm season grasses. n Test the soil to check for pH. You want the soil to be as close to neutral as possible so it can readily process the nutrients in the fertilizer. n Broadcast or rotary spreaders will evenly distribute fertilizer and will not cause striping on the lawn
like drop spreaders might. Resist the urge to fertilize by hand, as you may lay an uneven amount of product, producing burns and brown spots. n Fertilizers come in slow-release, fastrelease, and weed and feed formulations. Which fertilizer you use will depend on the type of grass you have and how much time you have to devote to lawn maintenance. Slowrelease fertilizers may be preferable because they do not need to be reapplied often. n Use caution and set the spreader to distribute less product if you are unsure how much to apply. Excessive fertilizer can damage a lawn. n Water the lawn well after application, and always follow the fertilizer manufacturerÕs instructions. n Keep people and pets off of the lawn for a day or two after application. n Scotts recommends that lawns with warm-season grass be fed over the summer as they grow steadily from spring to fall. n Another application of fertilizer in the fall will supply lawns with nutrients to continue to grow and then survive winter. Build a strong lawn by feeding it effectively. Dense, healthy lawns can strangle weeds and lead to beautiful landscapes.
Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 23
Lawn
Garden
How to plant a tree for successful growth More sunlight and warm temperatures frequently inspire homeowners to spend more time in the great outdoors during spring and summer. Outdoor projects often top homeowners' to-do lists in spring and summer, with gardens and landscapes taking center stage. Planting more trees around the yard is one popular project that can improve property value and benefit the environment.
pounds of carbon per year.
n Getting started
Visit a garden center or nursery and select a tree that will be hardy in your planting zone. Choosing native trees can increases the likelihood that the new tree will adapt to its surroundings. Also, inspect trees to determine if they're healthy before taking them home. Look for evidence of root girdling, which occurs when the roots cirn Why plant trees? cle around the There are plenty perimeter of the of reasons to plant Learn the right way to plant a tree to container and surtrees. Trees proround the trunk. vide a natural form improve the landscape and the environTrees should not of shade, reducing ment. have any dead or air temperature by dormant branches. blocking the sun's rays. This can reduce The DIY Network suggests locating reliance on air conditioning systems and the tree where it can thrive. This means make it more comfortable to spend time selecting a spot that can make it easier outdoors during the summer. for the tree to grow tall and wide. Avoid North Carolina State University planting near the house, where roots can College of Agriculture & Life Sciences crack concrete or asphalt, and always says trees absorb and block noise and plant away from underground pipes. reduce glare. They also can trap dust, pollen and smoke. Trees also absorb carn Planting the tree bon dioxide and potentially harmful gasNow it is time to amend the soil. It's ses from the air. One large tree can supnot enough to enrich only the soil in the ply a day's worth of oxygen for as many hole where the tree will be placed. Move as four people, while also storing 13 out into a circular area beyond where
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the roots will start so that roots can expand and properly anchor the tree. The next method of success is to ensure that the tree has a large enough hole to contain the existing root ball and allow for roots to grow and expand. Better Homes and Gardens experts say to prepare a hole that is two to three times as wide as the root ball of the tree. Treat the root ball gently. If the roots are wrapped in burlap, remove the burlap or push it to the bottom of the hole. Backfill the hole with soil and check
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that the tree is straight. Stake the tree to help it stay upright and straight until the roots anchor it more effectively. A layer of mulch around the base of the tree can prevent weeds and reduce water loss. Water daily for several weeks until the roots have fanned out. It's best to leave trees be for the first growing season, only removing broken or diseased limbs. Resist pruning and shaping until the tree has survived its first growing season.
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24 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
Lawn
Garden
Identifying problems that can threaten your lawn Landscaping can be a rewarding hobby that instills a sense of pride in homeowners. Whether you prefer to get your hands dirty planting perennials or devote the bulk of your attention to crafting a lush, green lawn, chances are you will run into a problem during lawn and garden season. Some problems are easy to identify, while others are more complex. The following are a handful of diseases home-
owners may encounter when spending time on maintaining their lawns and gardens over the next several months.
n Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a term used to describe various diseases that produce a host of unsightly symptoms. Those symptoms include tan to brown leaf spots or blotches; distorted, cupped or curled leaves; irregular defoliation,
such as leaves falling in spring; and dieback, a condition in which trees or shrubs begin to die from the tips of their leaves or roots backward. Permanent damage due to anthracnose is rare, but the diseases can weaken trees over time and that can leave them vulnerable to pest infestations.
n Brown Patch
likely to occur during summer. According to the Penn State Center for Turfgrass Science, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue and bentgrasses are the grass species most susceptible to brown patch. When a lawn is suffering from brown patch, its leaves and stems die out in large, circular patches. In highcut grasses, these patches can stretch
Brown patch is unsightly and most
See LAWN, pg. 25
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 25
Lawn Continued from page 24 from a few inches to several feet. Tall fescue grasses may not exhibit symptoms of brown patch in patches. In such instances, the brown patch may be noticeable on individual leaves that feature tan or light brown lesions, and the Center for Turfgrass Science notes that these lesions will be surrounded by dark brown borders.
n Dollar Spot
The American Phytopathological Society notes that dollar spot refers to a disease of the leaves of turfgrass.
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Grasses suffering from dollar spot will have white to straw-colored lesions that progress downward from the leaf tip or laterally across leaf blades. Leaf blades affected by dollar spot may have several small lesions or one large lesion, and in some instances, the entire leaf blade may be affected. Turfgrass affected by dollar spot may be susceptible to weed invasions.
n Summer Patch
Summer patch is most common in warm climates and is characterized by yellow to straw-colored patches that can be several inches or several feet in diameter. According to Scotts Lawnservice, summer patch is often linked to shallow root systems that result from poor soil conditions. Large
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26 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018
Lawn
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Watering tips to produce a healthy and lush lawn Summer is a season for landscaping, and homeowners who live in regions that get especially hot in the summertime often worry that their lawns won't make it through the dog days of summer looking lush. But lawns don't have to succumb to the sizzling summer sun. Oftentimes, the right watering strategies can help homeowners nurse their lawns through the hottest months of the year, ensuring the lawns make it
to autumn looking as green as they did back at the height of spring. n Reconsider when you're watering. Come summertime, homeowners may want a glass of water at high noon, when temperatures seem to be at their hottest. But you and your lawn are different, so the best time to satiate your thirst is not necessarily the best time to water your lawn. Watering in the middle of the day is often ineffec-
tive, as water tends to evaporate quickly in the afternoons when temperatures are peaking. Nighttime watering can contribute to the growth of fungus, which can create an entirely new set of headaches for homeowners. Morning watering sessions tend to be most effective during the summertime, as temperatures tend to be cooler in the morning, leading to less evaporation. Less evaporation means all that water-
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Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home - Week of April 23, 2018 - 27
Lawn
Garden
Tips on how to control common spring pests Wasps
Just when winter thaws out and people are anxious to enjoy the blooming flowers and luscious lawns of spring, pesky pests can appear and impact comfort levels and safety. Many pests resume their levels of activity as spring draws closer and temperatures warm up. The presence of these insects and rodents may cause problems in and around a home, which makes it essential to recognize them and avoid issues. The following are some of the more common spring pests and how to remedy infestations.
An errant wasp, hornet or yellow jacket may have survived winter and ridden out the colder temperatures within a home. Once the weather warms, queens will begin to look for places to lay eggs and establish colonies. Treating areas where wasps are seen entering and leaving the home is key. Seal holes as soon as possible. Although wasps help control other insect populations, their painful stings and potentially aggressive nature can make them challenging to have around a home. If a nest is found, hire a professional to remove it.
Pavement ants
Pavement ants are some of the most common pests residents encounter inside and outside of their homes. These ants are light brown to black with appendages that are lighter than the rest of their bodies. Small in stature, pavement ants have parallel lines on their heads and thorax, according to pest extermina- Ants are a tion company Orkin. Although pavement ants nest outdoors, they can enter homes through small crevices in search of food scraps. Their large colonies may not disappear until treatment is introduced. Keep foods in tightly sealed containers, clear counters and floors of crumbs, and address water sources, such as leaks. Pesticides may be needed in extreme conditions.
Water Continued from page 26 sprinkler, look for one that shoots water out horizontally as opposed to vertically. A vertical sprinkler system is more vulnerable to wind and evaporation than one that shoots water out horizontally, so make sure your sprinkler system is sending water into your lawn and not into summer breezes. n Avoid overwatering. How much water your lawn needs in the summertime depends on a host of factors, including where you live and how often rain falls in that region. Overwatering can promote the growth of fungus and
Spiders
nuisance that become more active as the weather warms. Fleas
Fleas are tiny, jumping, biting pests that must find a host upon which to live. As ectoparasites, they feed on blood while living on the body of living hosts. Pets can bring fleas inside the yard and home in warm weather. According to the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program, flea larvae develop more quickly at
higher temperatures. At normal room temperatures, the entire life cycle of a flea is about 18 days. Several flea control products are available to control fleas on cats and dogs. There also may be powders and sprays to alleviate flea infestations in the home. Vacuuming is also very effective in killing larvae in the carpet and at picking up adults.
where to adversely put down affect your your sprinlawn's root system, makklers, hook them up to ing it difficult your hose, for roots to turn them grow deep. on and Speak with a then watch local landto see scaping prowhere the fessional to water is determine going. how often you Areas that should water your lawn Poorly placed sprinklers that shoot water out onto are each week. driveways and other surfaces that do not need water exposed to can rob a lawn of water it desperately needs when sun are n most in Strategically temperatures climb in the summertime. need of position water, so your sprinklers. When choosing make sure the bulk of your water isn't
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going to shaded areas beneath trees. In addition, make sure you aren't wasting water on sidewalks, patios and driveways. Sprinklers should be positioned so none of the water they're shooting out is landing on surfaces that don't need water. It sounds simple, but too often homeowners drop their sprinklers down, turn them on and then walk away without waiting to see where the water is landing. Position sprinklers or adjust sprinkler heads so all the water is landing on your lawn. Keeping a lawn lush and green at the height of summer requires homeowners to adopt effective strategies. Such a strategies can make the difference between a lush landscape and one that succumbs to summer heat.
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Many spiders are not harmful enough to humans and pets to be much of a problem. In fact, spiders can be helpful to have around to control the populations of other insects. Still, many homeowners would prefer these webslinging friends remain outdoors. Therefore, sealing cracks in a home's foundation and repairing small openings around windows and doors can help keep spiders out. Also, alleviating moisture issues in basements, garages or attics may keep out other bugs that would be prey to spiders. Homeowners can take the steps necessary to cut down on pests in and around their homes.
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28 - Week of April 23, 2018 - Manchester Newspapers’ Spring Home
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