Landscape & Garden

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Inside: Yard care tools Spring garden chores Gardening time savers Paving stones vs. concrete Healthy soil solutions Natural fencing options Childproof your garden

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2

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Troublesome landscapes?

Try these succulent plants There are many homeowners who aspire to have an awardwinning landscape. The trouble is, not every yard is a perfect canvas for plantings. In most cases, there are one or more spots in a landscape that can prove troublesome and require different strategies.

One such st rat eg y is usi ng succulents and rocks to contend with the weak areas of the yard.

A rock garden accented with succulent plants can help make the most of dry patches or areas of steep inclines where planting lawn or other foliage is difficult.

Other areas of the yard may be marred by tree roots or sandy soil. P roviding remedies for these areas can be as simple as a r ra ng i ng low-ma i ntena nce plants and decorat ive rocks.

Succulents are plants that thrive with minimal care and water.

They store water in their leaves (cacti are a subset of succulents).

Be c au se t hey a r e d r oug httolerant, succulents work well in sandy soil or areas that tend to be dry. They also produce shallow roots, which helps them thrive even in poor soil.

Many succulents are perennial plants, meaning they will come back year after year. They also work well in containers, which can be moved and rearranged to create different looks all around the yard.

To accent succulent s in t he ga rden , homeow ners c a n enhance them with rocks and other decorative items. Rocks will help improve water f low and prevent run-off of soil.

Succulents for the cold W hen you he a r t he wor d “succulent,” do you envision a large cactus with prickly t h o r n s ? We l l , w h i l e a l l cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cact i. Cact i store water in t heir stems, wher e a s some suc cu lent s store water in their leaves.

Some succulents have a waxy cuticle to reduce water loss, while others, like cacti, have spines to protect them from i nt en se su n l ig ht a nd d r y winds. You might think the on ly place where you c a n grow succulents is indoors or outside in the arid Southwest, but t hat is not t rue. If you reside in northern areas of t he count r y, you can grow succulents in your landscape.

There are several t ypes of succulent s t hat do well in colder zones. Some of these succulents include:

• Barrel cacti • Hedgehog cacti • Hens and chicks • Ocotillo or vine cacti • Prickly pear cacti • Sedums • Spurges • Stonecrops

O f t ent i me s , g a r dener s c a n take a clipping of a succulent plant and replant it somewhere else. This makes succulent s an af fordable addition to the yard because they can typically spread and prosper easily.

Here are some popular succulents that can adapt to many landscapes.

• H ens and chicks: These spreading plants are lowgrowing green leaves that form rosettes. Each rosette can grow around 5 inches wide.

• A utumn Joy: This succulent emerges in very early spring and develops into a dense, cabbage-shaped plant. Late in summer the succulent will sprout stalks of pink-shaded flowers, which will darken to a russet hue as the autumn approaches. A perennial, this succulent plant requires almost no upkeep.

Troublesome areas in the landscape can be remedied with beautiful, lowmaintenance succulent plants.

• Y ellow Ice Plant: A lateblooming, flowering succulent that features yellow blooms against dark foliage. The foliage turns red in the winter.

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• A gave: A large succulent with blade-like foliage. It enjoys full sun but thrives in partial shade as well.

• J ade: The tree-like variety Crassula ovata can grow up to 6 feet tall. It prefers full sun and drying out between watering.

• A loe: This healing plant is a succulent that can be a welcome addition to the troublesome landscape.

• Yucca (not really a succulent, but a good companion plant)

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for terms up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubota equipment from available inventory at participating dealers through 6/30/2011. Example: A down, 0%installment A.P.R. financing repayment for terms up to 60 months purchases new Kubota 60-month*$0monthly term aton0% A.P.R.of select requires 60 payments of $16.67 equipment from available inventory at participating dealers through 6/30/2011. Example: A per $1,000 borrowed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation 60-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $16.67 preparation fee isborrowed. charged.

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

3

Shady characters used for many Stained to blend in purposes in the landscape

By Andrew McGlothlen Feature Writer Your backyard is bland and needs somet hing to make it more i nterest i ng. T he west side of your house is constantly buffeted by strong winds.

The number of trees your yard can sustain is dependent not only on the size of your yard, but also on the type of trees you select. If you do not account for the maturation of the trees you plant , t he t rees will quickly grow closely together, choke each other’s roots and die.

When buying trees, be sure to investigate how big they will get in 20 to 40 years. As to where to place the trees, that depends on your needs. If you are looking for a large tree to shade part of your backyard, do not plant it close to the house or other structures in your backyard. Most deciduous trees can be safely placed 20 yards from the house.

If you are looking for trees to break the wind, you may want to consider coniferous trees.

Deciduous trees tend to branch out several yards above t he ground and let wind in yearround, whereas coniferous trees begin to branch inches from the ground and are more effective

at blocking wind because they keep their needles year-round.

If you are looking for trees to ma ke you r backya r d mor e interesting, try a blossoming t ree l i ke a mag nol ia or a n apple. F r u it t rees ma ke for conversation as they send out sweet smells from blossom and fruit and provide food for your family as well.

If you are too far north for many fruit trees, you can still have nut t rees t hat leave a more durable and similarly delicious snack. For decorative purposes, deciduous t rees are usually pr e fe r r e d ove r c on i fe r ou s because t hey are const ant ly changing. While in the winter they look drab, they perk up with buds and blossoms in the spring, full leaves and seeds in the summer, and fruit or colorchanging leaves in the fall.

In warmer climates, the leaves of de c iduou s t r e e s do not usually change colors, but the climate will sustain a wider variety of fruit trees. Once you have selected your trees, you are ready to plant them. First, you must dig a large hole in the area you have selected. The hole should be wide enough to provide at least a six- to eightinch space all the way around

the tree. Place several inches of peat or enriched soil at the bottom of the hole and insert the tree in the hole.

Fill in the gap around the edge with more enriched soil and peat. Pack the soil tightly to prevent the tree from falling over before it can take root. If needed, tie the tree with wire to stakes in the ground to keep it upright as it settles.

Repeat the process for each of the trees you have selected. With some time and effort, you can pick and plant some trees that will provide shade for years.

Grow it now for later Thinking about growing your own Christ mas t ree? In t he past , most Ch r ist mas t rees came from the forest; today over 98 percent are plantation grown.

C h r i s t m a s t r e e f a r m s add ox ygen t o t he at mospher e , prov ide w i ld l i fe habit at , increase soil stability and are very attractive. Christmas trees are frequently planted on barren slopes or other cleared areas where no other crops will grow.

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4

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Take a look around your landscape. Got some concrete paths that have seen better days? You may think that the only way to deal with them is to break them up and repour them, but unless they are a hazard, you might not want to go to that extreme and consider staining them instead.

Staining concrete is simple, and although it won’t hide defects, it will give concrete a major boost.

Stains work well on pavers and slabs, and in order to get started, you need to browse t hrough the products available and look for one that is water-based and won’t harm the environment.

Keep in mind that colors will appear darker when spread over a large area, so try to go for a fairly light stain. Once you have selected the right color of stain, you can proceed with the actual staining. You will need to collect these supplies for your project:

• Safety glasses • Rubber gloves • Kneepads • Scrub brush • Concrete cleaner • Concrete stain • Tarps • Manual pump sprayer • Paintbrushes • Sealant Then follow these directions to stain concrete: 1. W e a r i n g s a f e t y g l a s s e s , rubber gloves and kneepads, grab a scrub brush and clean the concrete according to the manu fact u rer ’s d i rect ions listed on the concrete cleaner.

2. I t is important to allow the concrete to dry thoroughly.

3. F ind an inconspicuous area and do a test patch of stain. If

you like what you see, proceed to step 4.

4. It is important to protect all surroundings with tarps.

5. A pply a coat of stain to the concrete with a pump sprayer.

Use a paintbrush for vertical elements to avoid drips.

6. L et t he concrete d r y a nd repeat t he appl ic at ion as many times as suggested by the product manufacturer.

7. A pply a sealant following the manufacturer’s directions.

It doesn’t take much to stain concrete, and the results can enhance a landscape and extend t he l i fe of concret e. Before you break up all of your worn concrete paths, give staining a try. It may just save hours and hours of backbreaking labor.

Popular concrete choice: Exposed aggregate Ex posed agg regate techniqueOne of the most popular a nd endu r i ng de c orat ive c onc r et e f i n i she s , ex pose d aggregate uses the texture of the rock or stone in the concrete to embellish the surface. In this technique, concrete is placed and floated as normal.

The concrete is left to set and the surface paste is later removed by washing and/or brushing. In a variation of the method, select aggregate is cast over the fresh surface and embedded prior to setting of the concrete.

Washing and brushing follow as before to remove the mortar from the surface, fully exposing the natural color and texture of the aggregate. An acid wash may also be performed to further remove paste from the aggregate and brighten the surface.

— Courtesy of Portland Cement.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Butterflies are a spring spectacle Few harbingers of spring are more spect acular to look at than the variety of butterf lies that take to the skies after they emerge from the chrysalis.

Although it is widely known that butterf lies and moths go t h r ou g h a me t a mor pho s i s t o t u r n i nt o t hei r f i n ished forms, many are unaware just how many steps it takes for a butterfly to be ready to fly.

1.

A butterf ly begins its life as an egg, which a female butterf ly lays on a particular plant that the species of butterfly prefers to eat. This is called a host plant. Butterf lies are very particular about the type of plant that they eat. Certain species will only eat one type of plant or closely related varieties.

Butterflies like these plants: • Buckeye: Plantago and snapdragon for caterpillars; aster, chicory, coreopsis and milkweed for adults.

• Giant Swallowtail: Citrus, hop tree and prickly ash for caterpillars; azalea, goldenrod, Japanese honeysuckle, and milkweed for adults.

• Great Spangled Fritillary: Violet for caterpillars; black-eyed Susan, ironweed, purple coneflower and verbena for adults.

• Monarch: Milkweed for caterpillars; butterfly bush, goldenrod, ironweed, mint, milkweed, purple coneflower and thistle for adults.

2.

When a butterf ly hatches from the egg, it is called a larva, or a first instar caterpillar. The insect is very small and does nothing but eat and derive nutrients from the host plant.

3.

Caterpillars are voracious e at ers , a nd t hey g row very quickly. The trouble is that their skin cannot grow. A new, larger skin must be formed. The caterpillar must molt its old skin so that the new, larger skin can emerge. As the caterpillar eats, it will go through more stages, depending on the species. It may become a second, third, fourth, and fifth instar caterpillar.

4.

A c at er pi l la r t hat has mol t e d s e ve r a l t i me s may look very different from

• Mourning Cloak: Aspen, birch, elm, poplar and willow for caterpillars; butterfly bush, milkweed, rotten fruit, and Shasta daisy for adults.

• Painted Lady: Cosmos, daisy, hollyhock, mallow and thistle for caterpillars; aster, butterfly bush, goldenrod, and milkweed for adults.

• Spring Azure Blue: Flowering dogwood tree and steeple bush for caterpillars; viburnum and violet for adults.

• Tiger Swallowtail: Ash, birch, cherry, Easter cottonwood, lilac and tulip tree for caterpillars; butterfly bush, ironweed, Japanese honeysuckle, lilac, milkweed, and purple coneflower for adults.

its initial larval form. It will be much larger and may have different colors and features.

5.

Du r i ng t he f i na l molt , t he discarded skin will become part of the chrysalis that will house the caterpillar as it pupates. The caterpillar spins a silk girdle that attaches it to a particular location, either on a tree branch or a plant stem.

6.

Contrary to popular belief, butterflies are not formed in cocoons. Their pupa is called a chrysalis. Only some varieties of moths transform inside of a cocoon. In the chrysalis, the caterpillar is undergoing a rapid transformation. The chewing mouthparts are turning into t he sucking mout hparts of a butterf ly. Wings and antennae are also forming. The pupa stage is not merely a hibernation for the caterpillar. It is a time of very active growth.

7.

About 10 to 14 days later the butterfly will emerge from the chrysalis. Upon doing so the wings will be wet and small.

The butterfly then pumps fluids through the wings to expand them. It also needs to get used to f lying. A recently hatched butterfly is very vulnerable until its wings are ready and dry.

8.

An adult but ter f ly eat s nect a r a nd reproduces to begin the life cycle anew.

Relatively speaking, a butterfly has a shor t li fe span. Some species live only a few days.

Others may live up to a year.

T h i s c a n m a ke v ie w i ng a spect acularly hued butterf ly in a spring garden even more poignant for the observer.

Butterflies undergo an amazing transformation into the delicate, winged creature that graces spring days.

Adult butter f lies looking for nectar will seek out plants in the sunlight; rarely do they feed in the shade. Plants should have red, yellow, orange, pink, or

purple blossoms. Flat-topped or clustered flowers are preferred, as are short f lower tubes that enable the butterfly’s proboscis to fit in easily.

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www.lapointes.net • M-F 8-5 • Sat 8:30-12 Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

5

Going green: Grass-free landscaping a viable alternative M a ny home ow ne r s e q u at e a be aut i f u l la nd sc ape t o rolling acres of pristine lawn.

But cha nges i n t he cl i mate a nd w idespread seasona l restrictions on water use each yea r cou ld cha nge t he way people think about outfitting their yards.

GREEN ALTERNATIVES: Grass-free alternatives, such as ground cover mixed with patio stones, can be an option for homeowners looking for less upkeep.

There are many reasons people choose to forgo grass and opt for different ornamental elements in their yards. Cost is one factor to consider. While grass seed is relatively inexpensive, the upkeep, i nclud i ng mow i ng , fer t i l i zi ng , re -seed i ng , a nd watering, requires a significant investment of both time and money. Many homeowners may choose to lay down sod to create a beautiful lawn, an expensive opt ion for homeowners wit h vast landscapes.

The environment is anot her reason homeow ners look for grass alternat ives. Grass requires a lot of upkeep, much

d i f fer ent t y p e s of g r ou nd cover that will quickly fill in t he landscape. Clover, lowg r ow i ng everg r e en pla nt s and ivy are some of the more popular landscaping ground cover alternatives.

• R o c k s : D e c or at i ve r o c k s i nt e r m i ng le d w it h n at i ve pla nt s c a n add d i mension and color to the yard. Once rocks are placed, there is little upkeep except for pulling the errant weeds. of which is not environmentally friendly. For example, maintaining a pristine lawn requires

the use of a gas-powered mower a nd of tent i mes t he appl ication of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Seeking alternatives to grass can be friendly on both the wallet and the environment.

Here are some ideas for implement i ng a n env i r on ment a l alternative to the usual grass found in most backyards.

Grass-Free Landscaping Alternatives For those who are ready to say goodbye to g rass, t here a re many alternatives.

• G round cover: Homeowners who st ill desire t he look of g r e e n c a n c ho o s e a mong

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

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• M u lc h : A le s s ex p en si ve alternative to rocks is mulch.

Mulch is available in different colors and types and can even be created by a homeowner by chipping trimmed branches from trees in the yard. It helps lock water into landscaping beds, decreasing the need for frequent watering.

• Water features: Think about installing a pond in the yard t hat c a n be bordered w it h stones and mulch. This will take up a good amount of space and can create a natural habitat for wildlife and even some lowmaintenance pond fish.

• C oncrete or patio stones: A lt houg h t he y ’r e not a l ln at u r a l m at e r i a l s , p at io s can take up areas normally consumed by t he lawn and c r e at e ex p a n si ve out do or enter t a i n i ng a reas. It w i l l require an initial investment of the patio material, but once installed, patios don’t require s i g n i f i c a n t m a i n t e n a nc e .

Homeowners can of fset t he concrete jungle feel by placing plent y of potted plants and container foliage around the patio’s perimeter.

• Decking: Another alternative to concrete and stones is a wood or composite material deck. Again, this structure will increase outdoor living space and won’t require the level of routine maintenance needed to keep a lush lawn.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Eco-friendly: Homeowners embracing eco-scaping Eco-f r iend ly la ndsc api ng is growing increasingly popular among homeowners who wish to protect t he env i ronment .

Often referred to as eco-scaping, c on ser vat ive la nd sc api ng i ncludes remov i ng i nvasive plants, conserving water and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. Homeowners looking to landscape in a more ecofriendly way t his gardening season can employ the following techniques around the yard.

Remove invasive plants.

Exotic plants are often invasive, as they have been brought here f r om d i f fe r ent e c o s ys t e m s and therefore have no natural enemies to keep them under control. Though exotic plants might add significant aesthetic appeal, this may come at the expense of local wildlife and existing plants.

Many mistakenly assume all non-native plants are invasive, but t hat ’s not a lways t r ue.

Consult a local nursery before removing a foreig n plant to determine if it’s invasive or noninvasive. If it’s non-invasive, it does not need to be removed.

See a professional if you need help determining the nature of a plant in your yard.

Choose native plants whenever possible.

Native plants have adapted to the local climate and soil, which can offer numerous eco-friendly benef it s. Be c au se t hey a r e accustomed to native conditions, n at ive pl a nt s do not ne e d chemical fertilizers and require less water to thrive than their non-native counterparts, which have not adapted to the climate and soil. As a result, they need help to grow and survive. Native plants won’t harm surrounding wildlife or plants.

Plant strategically.

Plants can be very picky when it comes to growing conditions.

I f pl ac e d i n poor g r ow i ng conditions, plants will require chemical supplements to thrive and more water to survive. To avoid this problem in your yard, plant strategically.

Find appropriate light, moisture a nd soi l cond it ions for a ny new pla nt s, a nd t hen pla nt accordingly. Doing so requires less maintenance, saving you money while adding aesthetic appeal to your property. Visit a local nursery where you can get help to find the right growing conditions for your plants.

Water properly.

Far too often homeowners waste water, particularly when the mercury rises. Overwatering plants leads to excess runoff, which can result in pesticides and fertilizers being carried to local streams and rivers.

Excessive watering can also filter nutrients from the soil.

W hen watering, water early in the morning, which allows p l a n t s t o c o n s e r ve w a t e r t h roug hout t he day. Nat ive plants t hat have est ablished t hemselves should not need supplemental watering.

Reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.

Pest icides shou ld be a last resor t . I n add it ion t o t hei r pot ent ia l ly ha r m f u l ef fect s on t he loc a l ecosystem, pesticides can be harmful to human health. Pesticides often e x ac e r b at e p e s t pr oble m s , killing the beneficial species l i ke ea r t hwor ms t hat don’t recover as quickly as their more ha r m f u l pest c ou nt er pa r t s.

Only use pest icides if absolutely necessary. Consult a professional and ask about alternatives to pesticides.

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Employing proper watering guidelines is one way homeowners can adopt more ecofriendly landscaping practices.

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

7

Enjoy yourself: Lawn care tips for first-time homeowners First-time homeowners can be over whelmed at t he responsibility that comes with home ownership. While some of the responsibilit ies of owning a home can be stressful, others can prove therapeutic.

pride in homeowners. First-time homeowners with no history of caring for a lawn can turn their lawn into a lush oasis of which to be proud.

Many homeowners find caring for their lawns to be an enjoyable hobby that helps relieve stress. Time spent outdoors in the warm sun helps improve mood, and a lush law n and garden can instill a sense of

Soil is the foundation for any good lawn or garden. Healthy soil will result in healthy plants and vegetables. Unfortunately, not all homeowners are lawncare enthusiasts, and first-time homeowners might discover

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their lawns and gardens need lots of work. That work should begin with a soil test. Do-ityourself soil kits are available at most major home improvement and lawn and garden centers.

For t hose who prefer to use the ser vices of a soil testing professional, the United States Depa r t ment of Ag r icu lt u r e ha s Cooper at ive E x t en sion System off ices in every state and U.S. territory. Such offices provide valuable information t o home ow ner s , a nd ma ny even provide free or low-cost soil tests. These tests can help homeowners learn more about the soil in their yard and what, if anything, they need to do to improve its health.

Find the right grass Some lawns might be an eyesore because the grass is not the right type of grass for that particular region. If a grass is not a good fit for the region and local climate, it likely won’t t hrive or will require considerable and often costly maintenance to stay lush.

Bermuda and tall fescue grasses are popular options in many

page 9 ‰

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Special events may have admission fees.

Historic Home and Barn - One of the first of its kind to be placed on the National Historic Register Heritage Garden - A 4-acre, 75-year-old garden created

by Maine’s “Dean of Gardening”, Bernard McLaughlin featuring stunning collections of lilacs, iris, and lilies tucked along shaded paths The Potting Shed - A charming gift shop where you can find unique garden decor, jewelry, bath products, and more, most of which is made locally

First-time

Your local contractor.

A Living Treasure

Check the website for special events and programs.

areas of North America, but it’s still best to consult a lawncare p r o fe s s ion a l t o de t e r m i ne

George R. Farris Construction

McLaughlin Garden

There is always something blooming at the Garden!

Maintaining a lush lawn can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby for homeowners.

Plus we do excavation work for: Septics • Driveways Landscaping • Lawns • Cement Pads Free estimates • Fully insured Serving the area since 1963 George R. Farris Construction 687 Route 202 Greene, ME 207-946-5050

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8

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Grasses for difficult sites Drought-resistant grasses are numerous. Blue-green sedge is perfect for massing in dry areas, but is invasive and will take over if not controlled.

As a deer repellent, you can’t miss with Miscanthus. There are many varieties to choose f rom. T hey c a n ra nge f rom two feet to over 10 feet tall. For example, one of the tallest is the giant Chinese silver grass. This plant makes an excellent screen, blooming late into fall. One of the smallest is Dixieland. As a dwarf, it grows only three to four feet tall and makes an excellent specimen plant.

Pennisetum incomptum is the perfect grass for hillsides where soil stabilization is important.

At three to four feet in height, its tall white plumes will blow gently in a June breeze.

For sc r e en i ng , or na ment a l grasses are ideal if you need a screen in a hurry and don’t want to wait the 10–20 years for a hedge or evergreen grouping to grow up. Arundo donax is u nbeat able. It s la rge c a nes reach over nine feet tall and are suitable for the center of a circular bed as well as the edge of a property.

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577-1612 Wonderful selection of hardy locally grown perennials and flowering shrubs to grace your gardens from spring to fall. Fresh cut flower bouquets.

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First-time from page 8

which grass is best for a given region. Learn the ins and outs of caring for the grass in your yard, including which types of seed and fertilizer are the best fit, as well as the recommended watering guidelines.

Plant properly Planting new grass might seem like a big undertaking, but it’s actually quite easy, even for first-time homeowners. Once a person has determined the correct type of grass to install, planting is much more simple that one might think.

Aerate the soil Soil compaction is a problem for many homeowners. Heavy usage often compacts the soil, mak i ng it ver y d i f f icu lt for the lawn to hold oxygen and water that roots need to grow and absorb valuable nutrients.

Aerat ing increases nut rient , oxygen and water movement into the soil, improving rooting and controlling thatch buildup.

Ha nd aerators m ig ht prove ef fect ive on sma l ler law ns, but most lawns would benefit from a core aeration machine.

For f i rst-t i me homeow ners, it might be best to enlist the services of a professional the first time aeration of your lawn is done to learn the process.

homeowners, but k now t hat drop spreaders, which drop t he fer t ilizer direct ly below the spreader, tend to be more accurate but take more time.

Spread seed evenly

Broadc ast spreaders, wh ich drop fertilizer in a pattern away f rom t he spreader, a re less accurate but cover large areas in a much shorter period of time.

Avoid fertilizing the same area twice, and be patient.

Grass seed should be spread evenly over all t illed areas.

Spreading can be done by hand or by using a seed spreader.

Add a light layer of soil over the seed Once the seed has been spread, cover the seeded areas with a light layer of soil. Some soils are treated, and these treated soi ls prov ide nut r ient s t hat encourage growth.

Water well but don’t overdo it The soil around the seed should be moist until the grass has grown in to its desired height.

Avoid overwatering, which can drown the seed and make new grass growth impossible.

Fertilize Fertilizer is a friend to lawns, providing the nutrients a lawn needs to grow in thick. When fertilizing, use a spreader. The type of spreader is up to the

Fer t ili zing might seem like a tedious process, but if done

correctly, it should lead to a lush lawn. W hen fertilizing, it’s best to do so during the fall and spring. The exact time to fertilize depends on the region, but it’s generally best to fertilize between April and early June, and then in the fall between late September and early November.

When it comes to lawn care, first-time homeowners should not be i nt i m idat ed by t h is sudden responsibility. Caring for a lawn can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

1

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

9

Top priority: Lawn mower maintenance a vital chore From yard work and pest control to cleaning and t ak ing care of home systems, there’s a lot that goes into maintaining a house. Everything Home offers practical tips and expert knowhow to help anyone take good care of their home.

Regular lawn mower maintenance is vital to keeping this tool running well. These tips from the experts at TruGreen will help you take care of the workhorse of lawn care.

Sharpen the blade T he sha r per t he blade, t he cleaner your mower will cut the grass, and the better your lawn will look. Dull blades can shred grass and cause discoloration at the tips.

If you don’t have the time or the inclination to sharpen the blade yourself, pack up your mower (or carefully remove the mower

1.

2.

Drain t he gas and disconnect the spark plug.

Clamp a piece of wood to the deck to keep the blade from turning.

3.

T u r n t he blade bolt c ou nt e r c l o c k w i s e t o remove it. If there is resistance, apply some penetrating oil, wait 15 minutes and try again.

4.

Remove t he blade a nd mark the bottom side so you can put it back on correctly.

5.

Cla mp t he blade i n a bench vise and sharpen with a 10-inch mill file. Use long

DEC.

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27 Years Experience and still...

strokes and work from the center outward. Use the same number of strokes on each side and keep the same angle.

hangs lower than the other side, grind off excess metal from the end of the blade – not from the part that was just sharpened.

6.

Reinstall blade.

B a l a nc e t he bl ade on a balance tool – it’s an inexpensive pyramid-shaped tool found in most hardware stores. If one side of the blade

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To sharpen a blade:

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blade) and take it to a repair shop or home i mprovement store. For the do-it yourselfer, take a look at these general tips – for safety, always consult the owner’s manual for instructions specific to your machine.

When you reinstall the mower blade, make sure you place it at the proper mowing height.

The right tools maintained well will make your yard chores a breeze.

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10 LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Yard care: Must-have tools for the outdoor handyman Spring has sprung for most areas of the country and the average homeowner’s “honey-do� list likely has its share of outdoor landscaping tasks that need to be tackled. The right tools can make easier work of outdoor chores. A report from the Associated Landscape Contractors of America titled, “Economic Benefits of Landscape,� states that landscaping can add as much as 14 percent to the resale value of a building and speed its sale by as much as six weeks.

Homeowners looking to sell their home or just improve its market value will want to consider landscaping as a viable investment. Homeowners can expect to earn back 150 percent or more of their landscape investment through the value it brings to a property. Whatever the landscaping project, the right tools will make any task that much easier. There are certain items homeowners should have in his or her gardening arsenal.

Soil cultivator: A multi-pronged tool that breaks up clods of soil and grass to provide easier planting.

Various garden hoes: Hoes can be used for chores such as breaking up soil, weeding, cultivating, aerating, and many other purposes.

Spading fork: Another tool that loosens soil with straight tines that dig through dense soil.

and branches, it makes sense to have recyclable or reusable bags on hand for transporting waste.

Hoses: Drip irrigation hoses can deliver water right to plants’ roots where they need it most. A regular nozzle-powered hose can be used for cleaning and misting plants and surrounding hardscapes.

Compost bi n : “ Black gold� is t he ide a l l a nd sc api ng supplement . By creating compost from discarded food, a homeowner can generate the prime fertilizer needed to keep plants healthy.

Wheelbarrow: Transporting gravel, rocks, mulch, shrubbery, and many other garden essentials is made easier with the help of a wheelbarrow or a garden cart.

Shovel: A multipurpose shovel can dig through dirt, gravel and the like.

work around bushes and other hard-toreach areas.

Rake: A steel-pronged rake will till soil and spread out mulch and other organic matter in planting beds. A flexible rake is good for collecting leaves and thatch.

Gloves: Avoid blisters and insect bites on your hands with durable gloves that protect the hands.

Edger: Available as manual or gas powered, an edger gives planting beds and the edges of lawns a clean look.

Lawn mower: To maintain a healthy lawn it will have to be trimmed to the correct height. A manual or powered lawn mower is the essential tool.

String trimmer: Weeds can easily be trimmed with a string trimmer that can

Collection bags /bins: To properly dispose of organic matter such as leaves

Branch pr uner: A durable branch trimmer/pruner can cut through thick or thin branches and keep landscape items tidy. Pruning also helps promote growth of many flowers and shrubs.

Overhead pruner: Errant shrub and tree branches in hard-to-reach areas can be trimmed with an overhead pruner with an extendable arm.

D e p e nd i n g on s p e c i f ic i nt e r e s t s , homeowners can stock up on trowels, bulb planters, chain saws and other items that will get jobs done around the exterior of the home.

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DAVES SMALL ENGINE REPAIR, LLC Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

910 MAIN STREET, OXFORD ME 04270 207-539-2600 Route 26

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 11

Renewal a time of

Spring returns to the garden, bringing perfect begonias, bright geraniums — and work balanced with moments of serenity

W

ell, spring is almost here. As I write this, there are still snow banks here in Turner, but the mud is appearing bit by bit.

Mud is always a sure sign of spring.

Mud on the roads and on your boots is one thing, but mud in your garden is entirely dif ferent and a sign you need to pay attention to if you are a gardener. If your garden is still very wet, as much as you may want to, leave it alone. Gardeners do more harm to their plants and bring more frustration unto themselves by “wading” in too early. Every step you take on wet ground compacts the dirt and when you compact the dirt, you compact plant roots.

They have survived winter and are just beginning to circulate water and nutrients through their root system.

The plant roots are fragile and tender and compaction makes their survival that much more difficult. If you have beds that can be reached without walking onto them, have at it. If you are like me,

safer than a metal fan rake (because along with those weeds I didn’t pull, I didn’t rake the oak leaves either).

Happy spring

By Jody Goodwin Feature Writer / Photographer

there will be plenty of weeds showing their heads because I never get around to that final weeding that I intend to do. You can also rake, but, please remember, the ground is extremely soft and a rake tine can pull up an entire plant by just one small branch. I find a bamboo rake in the spring, although not as efficient, is much

I found this clever little bamboo rake which is straight, not a fan shape, and is only about 6 or 8 inches wide. It is great for early spring gardens because you can easily go around plants without going over them. Also, be very careful of those plants like bleeding hearts and ferns because their first growth, which may be showing above ground shor t ly, cont ains t heir fronds and they are very easily damaged and even pulled up. So take that rake around them and handpick the leaves and debris from their centers.

I know, really I do, how hard it is to keep from putting your hands in spring dirt. It is always a long winter and when it begins to smell like spring, it is like an unspoken command to gardeners t hat we must respond. Well, here is a way that will both satisfy and reward you all summer and throughout next winter as well.

I have passed a half-dozen greenhouses in the past few weeks with signs that say, “Opening April 1” or “Your Plants Are Growing.” There are spring bulbs tempting us in many stores. So, take advantage of what is available. You can pass a couple of these still cold evenings planning your container gardens, but maybe try a little something new this year.

Create a healing garden W het her t end i ng to a housepla nt , growing some f lowers or turning an outdoor garden into a relaxing retreat, plants have the power to heal our body and our soul. Research has shown that working in the garden can benefit ever yone . T he physic a l ef for t s of gardening — digging, planting, bending a nd wa l k i ng — a re g reat for ms of exercise to keep the body healthy.

Geraniums brighten containers in the summer and your house in the winter.

Add a few bulbs, such as little daffodils or patio dahlias, and perennial fillers, sold as annuals such as ivies and asparagus ferns, and you have a wonderful, colorful c ont a i ner for t he su m mer. But , i n September, instead of throwing it all in the compost pile, take it apart gently.

Container gardens, when torn apart in fall, will provide new garden plants and new houseplants to get you through next winter. There is nothing more wonderful than looking at vigorous green plants and blossoms by windows when the entire world outside is white in January. If you do not have this green blessing now in your house, you can have it next winter.

The hardy, miniature perennials can go into your regular garden beds to welcome you next spring as can the daffodil bulbs, while the dahlia bulbs can be packed away for use next year either in containers or your garden. The ivies, begonias and asparagus ferns can be potted up as houseplants to enjoy over the winter.

Asparagus fern is especially resilient, does well even with neglect and home heating, and can take a lack of southern light.

With all the new miniature perennials being of fered by various companies, variety is not a problem. Dwarf coral bells, hostas, daisies, dianthus, browneyed Susans, many types of begonias and ferns all make great container plants.

Did you know that asparagus fern is one of the most efficient air-cleaning plants that we know of in ecology? And that can’t hurt in a house that is closed up for five or six months. If you have southern windows, don’t forget a few containers of geraniums

which, in the fall, can be brought in and will brighten your house with blossoms all winter and then be cut back in March to go back outside for May. If you have room to bring your containers in at night and on cold days, pot away. If you do not, most nurseries have an area where they keep plants that have been sold until you can pick them up. It will be only a few weeks until many containers will be safe outside, at least during the day.

So hang on, do a bit of planning and dreaming, and let the games begin.

Happy gardening.

Jody Goodwin has been gardening for more than 25 years. She lives in Turner with her husband, Ike, her dog and two cats. She may be reached by writing to her in care of the Sun Journal, 104 Park St., Lewiston, Maine, 04243-4400 or by email at jodyike@megalink.net.

Strenuous yard work such as digging or weeding not only burns calories, it is similar to weight training in building bones and prevent ing osteoporosis.

Gardens and gardening activity can also improve mental outlook and our emotional mood by reducing stress, anxiety and depression.

Studies have found that gardening can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease.

Researchers at the Cleveland Botanical Garden found that the blood pressure of many visitors dropped the longer they stayed in the gardens.

A he a l i ng ga r den c a n t a ke ma ny forms but always provides interaction with nature. Visually plants provide inspirational colors or peaceful tones.

We can hear the relaxing sound of water or the stimulating activity of visiting wildlife. The rich aroma of fresh earth and the delightful scent of perfumed herbs fill the air we breathe, while the fresh flavor of a crispy pea pod or sweet berry tempts our taste buds. We can touch the velvety smoothness of a flower petal or be touched by the movement of leaves in the wind.

Begin to create your own garden of he a l i ng t oday si mply by pla nt i ng a c ont a i ne r f i l le d w it h c olor f u l f lowers, a nutritious vegetable, or an herb such as lavender, sage, basil or thyme. In addition to being attractive and aromatic, these and many other herbs have been used medicinally for centuries. Watching and nurturing any plant as it grows provides power and energy to enhance your well-being.

In an outdoor setting, incorporating a few simple design elements turns any garden into a place of healing, meditation and inspiration.

• G row plants that you find pleasing.

Are you energized by bright colors?

Then include annuals such as zinnias, petunias, sunf lowers or cosmos. If you enjoy cooking, incorporate herbs, vegetables and edible f lowers into your garden. Plants such as sage or

This is just one of many coral bells that work in containers and can be moved to the garden.

12 LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

Many types of dianthus are perennial and will transfer to your garden beds in the fall.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

lavender can be harvested and used for aromatherapy.

• I nclude a place to sit and observe the beauty of nature or a path for walking through the garden. Enclose it with shrubs or fencing to create a secluded retreat.

• Add a focal point for meditation and reflection such as a piece of sculpture, a special plant, interesting rocks, wind chimes or a water fountain.

• E ncourage butterf lies, birds, insects and other wildlife to the garden for their healing energy. Birdfeeders and birdhouses quickly and easily begin att ract ing garden visitors. Choose plants that supply nectar and food including conef lowers ( Echinacea purpurea), butterfly flower (Aesclepias tuberosa) salvias (Salvia spp.), dill, parsley and sunflowers.

The design and development of a healing garden, just like the process of healing and recovery, takes place over time. It is that journey and the time spent with nature that heals our body and soul.

Fo r a d d i t i o n a l r e s o u r c e s a b o u t t herapeut ic ga rdens, v isit t he T herapeut ic L a ndsc apes Dat abase (www.healinglandscapes.org), which lists healing gardens throughout the United States and Canada, as well as links to other informational websites and organizations.

This patio dahlia brightens up a container all summer and can brighten your garden next spring.

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 13

Create an attractive and affordable multi-use garden shed Home ga r dener s a nd law n ent husiast s genera l ly accumulate a number of tools of the landscaping trade in order to successfully manage their gardening needs. As a result, ma ny home ow ner s bu i ld a garden shed to store all their tools and lawn care accessories.

A garden shed presents an ideal way to store all of t he tools and appliances needed for the weekend landscape hobby. Plus, it enables homeowners to clear out clutter from the garage or basement. A locked garden shed can be a safe place in which to store sharp tools, fuel and some chemical products.

Just because the shed will have utility doesn’t mean it has to be an eyesore on the property.

There are ways to create or purchase garden sheds that are aesthetically appealing and will

blend in with the landscape or the main house.

Do -it-you rsel fers who have decided to build a garden shed and want to do so affordably can shop around for lower-priced material. It may be a good idea to purchase a framing kit from a home-improvement store or online retailer and then shop around for exterior materials.

Individuals can also find used sheds f rom auct ion sites or ne wsp ap e r c l a s si f ie d s a nd simply retrofit these structures to meet individual needs.

Although sheds will be exposed to the elements, because they are not liveable structures they don’t require t he same level of construction as a home or addition, like a garage. This me a n s t h at a home ow ne r is able to save some money w it h mat er ia ls. P ressboa rd

may be durable enough and less expensive than plywood.

There’s little need for insulation or expensive windows. In fact, unless it is for a decorat ive st a ndpoi nt , w i ndows a re unnecessary altogether.

It is likely that people who have had recent upgrades made on their homes may have leftover materials t hat can be put to use on a garden shed. Roofing s h i ng le s , e x t r a a lu m i nu m siding and wood trim can be used on the shed. Even leftover latex paints and stains can be used on the shed.

Homeow ners shou ld v isit a retailer of prefabricated sheds to see how they are made. This can provide insight as to the size and structure and the type of construction that will be needed.

I f budget is not a c onc er n , home ow ne r s m ay wa nt t o purchase pre-made sheds that can be customized to mimic the architecture and color of the person’s home. Stained glass and cottage features can make a shed seem like an intimate retreat nestled in the yard.

In addition to being a fine place to store garden tools, a shed c a n a lso be c onst r uct ed t o serve as a child’s play space. A miniature home in the yard can be a fun play zone for kids and be the centerpiece for hours of imaginative outdoor fun.

A strategically placed shed can serve many purposes. This decorative garden shed can be the ideal place to store garden tools and equipment ... or it can be used as a child’s backyard hideaway. Perhaps you build the shed now as a playhouse and convert it to a garden shed later after the kids have grown up.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Planning ahead: Succession in the vegetable garden Spring in the garden is a dangerous time.

The temptation is to go out on those warm, sunny days and plant until you drop. Not only is that action strenuous on your body and mind, it can also lead to the proverbial glut of food in a few months.

A better solution is to plan out your annual edible garden so crops mature in a more orderly fashion. Succession plant ing requires a little knowledge of the type of plants you’re growing, a little planning to have room for them to grow, and the patience to plant each crop in turn.

It is important to know t hat ot her gardening techniques, suc h a s c r op r ot at ion a nd inter plant ing, can help maximize growing space and help your plants avoid many soil-borne diseases and insects.

Planting for success Succession planting is a simple concept: Plant small rows or beds of pla nt s per iod ic a l ly during the growing season. As one planting’s harvest begins to fade, t he nex t pla nt i ng ’s harvest will be ready. The key is knowing what vegetables can be planted in succession, and the best time of year to do it.

Two weeks later, sow another 2-foot-long row, and so on until the weather gets too warm for lettuce. Since the plants mature in one to two months you’ll get a continuous harvest of lettuce.

For warm weather crops, such as bush beans, summer squash, or cucumbers, follow the same planting pattern. Plant one bed af ter the last frost date, and anot her t hree or four weeks later. Since t hese crops take at least 60 days to mature, in reg ions w it h shor t g row i ng seasons you may have time for just two successive crops before the weather gets too cold.

As late summer weather cools, you can start planting lettuce again for a fall or winter crop, depending on your locat ion.

Because the amount of daylight decreases in autumn, plants grow more slowly in fall than in spring, so allow more time for them to mature.

The ot her key to succession plant ing is leav ing room to plant. The temptation is to plant everything all at once and fill the garden. It’s important to plan for subsequent plantings. Cover unused beds with straw or other mulch to deter weeds.

Pull out old crops as soon as they finish producing. Don’t let those peas hang on just because there are a few fruits on the vine.

Pull old lettuce and spinach plants as soon as t hey show signs of bolting.

By being a little hard-hearted, you’ll create lots of room to grow a second and third crop.

It t akes a lit t le planning in advance, but you’ll be amazed at where you can tuck in a few broccoli or pak choi plants or a small row of beans.

For more tips and garden information, visit www.garden.org.

Charlie Nardozzi, a nationally recognized garden writer, book a u th or, s p e a k e r a n d r a d i o and television personality, has appeared on HGTV, PBS and Discover y Channel television n e t w o r k s . He t e a c h e s a n d in spir e s hom e gar d e n e r s to grow the best vegetables, fruits, flowers, trees and shrubs in their yards. (Family Features)

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 15

Planting pointers: Successfully plant around your property Spring is a season for rebirth.

For homeowners, spring often means it is time to bring their property back to life. Once the winter weather has subsided, it’s time to head outside and take inventory of the landscape and see how the yard, trees, bushes, and shrubs fared after another long winter.

deeply seems to be correct, as homeowners want to be certain their plants or trees will take root and it seems like common sense that the deeper the plant is planted, the more likely it is to take root. The planting depth should mirror t he dept h t he plant was grown at the nursery.

One of the best and most ecofriendly ways to bring your yard back to life is to plant around the property. Planting can be a soothing and enjoyable way to spend some time outdoors in the spring air, and it’s not as difficult as it may seem.

When purchasing a plant at the nursery, ask for the planting depth and be sure not to go any deeper than that when planting the plant on your property.

Be aware of depth.

It’s common for those who aren’t used to gardening to plant too deeply. The idea of plant ing

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trees a difficult proposition, as new trees might rock back and forth and struggle to establish new roots.

To mitigate any strong winds, stake new trees when planting around the property. Not all new trees need to be staked, but for the ones that do, the stakes will act as a stabilizing force during strong winds, enabling the tree to establish healthy roots for years to come.

Consider containergrown plants.

Novice green-thumbers might find it best to go with containergrown plants. Container-grown plants are easy to plant around the property, and it’s also easy to change the look of the property by simply moving the plants around. As the seasons change, it’s easy to reposition the plants so they’re still getting the sun exposure they need to thrive.

Get a second opinion.

P l a nt i ng t r e e s a r ou nd t he property can be akin to hanging a pa i nt i ng on t he wa l l. It’s always best to get a second opi n ion t o m a ke su r e t he

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certain the plants will be in the best place to thrive.

Before backfilling the hole, ask someone to look at the tree from several angles to ensure that it is straight. Once the tree has been backfilled, it’s awfully difficult to reposition the tree.

Call the utility company and ask if there are any buried utility lines you’ll want to avoid. Also, a tree’s roots spread far beyond its branches, so be sure to plant the tree in a location that allows for that root growth without jeopardizing the property (i.e., roots spreading beneat h t he home’s foundation).

It’s impor t ant to sur vey t he property ahead of planting to be

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

DIY: Gardening time savers Tak ing t he DI Y approach to lawn and garden care has many adva nt ages, such as sav i ng money and offering some fresh air and exercise, but sometimes it c a n t u r n i nt o a t i me l y endeavor. By the time you round up tools and supplies, figure out a plan of action and get working, you could easily lose half of your day to lawn care.

By approaching your lawn and ga rden care chores smar t ly however, you can still have time for many other activities with family and friends. Here are five best practices from the experts at Ames True Temper that are sure to be welcome time savers for you this year:

Get organized.

Nothing’s more frustrating than not having a shovel or watering can on hand when you need it most. Reorganize your shed or garage on a regular basis. It will help you keep track of what you

have and what you need. A quick trip to your local garden center will be more productive when armed with a shopping list.

Make a plan.

Draw a map or layout of what you’d like each of your garden beds to look like. Label t he plants t hat you’d like to use in particular areas; this way you’ve got clear direction.

Use multipurpose, timesaving garden tools.

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Take preventive steps.

Edge you r ga rdens, and lay landscape fabric between the mulch and ground to prevent weeds from cropping up among your plants. This will help save time otherwise spent weeding.

Get the family involved.

The more helping hands you have, the easier it will be to get

Use multipurpose, time-saving garden tools. the job done. Ames True Temper makes a line of real Kids Garden tools so it’s easy for everyone to help out. Once you’re equipped with the right tools and know-

how, you’ll be able to create and maintain a beautiful lawn and garden in no time. For more great tips, visit www.ames.com.

There are many steps when it comes to outdoor projects, and the more motions you can cut out, the better. The Ames Planter’s Pal is a multipurpose hand-held tool that offers seven functions in one.

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 17

Different purposes: Paving stones versus concrete Homeowners have a variety of needs around the landscape that call for pavers or concrete, including driveways, patios and walkways. Deciding on a material means assessing needs and desired features as well as the cost of the project.

In general, pavers are interlocking tiles of stone, brick or molded concrete. Concrete is poured in large, solid blocks with flexible spacers to allow for contraction and expansion depending on the weather.

will not grow through so there is less maintenance involved. But it’s important to know that even concrete that has been properly laid may shift or crack over time from the settling of the ground.

T hanks to innovat ions in concrete, home ow ner s who l i ke t he look of pavers without the work can investigate st a mped concrete opt ions, where a pattern is embossed into the concrete before it dries. Colors, stains and etching procedures are also available.

Pavers

There are many different price ranges for pavers, depending on the size and material. Some range from a few dollars a block to much more than that. Many home-improvement stores sell an array of pavers, or homeowners can order from a specialty retailer.

Paving stones are one option for homeowners looking to transform areas of their landscapes.

Concrete Poured concrete is a permanent addition to the landscape. It cannot be poured and then reconfigured without major demol it ion. A lso, bec ause concrete requires precision and mastery, it is not something easily done by a do-it-

Pavers are often individually set with sand and leveling gravel. This means that over time they can settle and become uneven. Furthermore, because there is only sand in between, weeds may grow through the pavers over time, requiring added maintenance.

yourselfer. This means t hat a hired mason will have to be called to pour c oncret e feat u res. T h is may ma ke concrete a more expensive purchase than individual pavers.

Some tow n codes requ i re a per m it for pouring concrete because it is a permanent change to the home. Pavers may not require a permit because they are not permanent and can be removed.

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When choosing between using pavers or concrete around a pool or water source, it is important to select a texture that will not be slippery when wet. Otherwise accidents and injuries may occur. The choice bet ween concrete and pavers is one of personal preference as each material has its own advantages and disadvantages to consider.

The homeowner will need to ascertain whether a permit is needed before starting a poured concrete or paver project.

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T here a re a few ot her d ist i nct ions between these two materials that may also inf luence a homeowner’s decision.

Pavers provide immediate gratification in that they can be enjoyed shortly after installation. Concrete, on the other hand, will require days to dry and cure.

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Pavers allow f lexibility in color and pattern. They can also be dug up and moved around at a later time. Different types of blocks can be interwoven to create a unique pattern. Because pavers are individual pieces, homeowners may find that installation is a do-it-yourself landscaping project.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

The go-to spot: Protect your patio from wear and tear Patios are typically the goto spot for warm weather outdoor meals.

W het her host i ng f r iends or si mply enjoy i ng a rela x i ng meal under the evening sky, homeowners tend to spend as much time as possible on the patio once the weather warms up. Because it’s such a hightraffic area, the patio should be protected from wear and tear.

Wear and tear on the patio can result from Mother Nature or be a byproduct of all those spring and summer evenings spent relaxing outdoors. Fortunately, t here are a handful of ways homeowners can keep t heir patios looking pristine through the summer party season.

Stain the concrete.

Cover the furniture.

Pat io f u r n it u re c a n va r y sig n i f ic a nt l y i n pr ic e a nd q u a l it y. Home ow ne r s who picked up a few plastic chairs at the nearby grocery store might not feel furniture covers are worth the investment.

For homeow ners w it h more ex p en sive pat io f u r n it u r e , durable furniture covers that c a n w it h s t a nd ye a r - r ou nd weather are a sound investment.

Waterproof and heat-resistant fabric is ideal, as the furniture will be vulnerable to spring rains, summer showers and high temperatures during the summer party season. Covers should also fit snugly around the furniture to provide optimal protection.

Staining concrete protects it from natural elements, which can cause the color of a patio to peel or f lake. Concrete stain penetrates deep and infuses the concrete with a permanent color that’s less likely to fall victim to t he element s. St a i ns a re generally solid-color stains or acid stains.

Consider retractable awnings.

Solid-color stains, as their name suggests, provide a more even and solid look, while acid stains prov ide a more ma rble -like appearance. While neither are likely to fade or peel quickly, over time an additional coat or stain might need to be applied to counter natural factors like bright sunlight.

A retractable awning can also pr ot e c t f r iend s a nd fa m i ly members should an unexpected summer shower appear or keep

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Ret rac t able aw n i ngs m ig ht cost a little money, but they can a lso pay homeow ners back over the long haul. First and foremost, retractable awnings protect a patio from sunlight and ultraviolet rays in hot weather.

them safe from sunburns during summer afternoons when the UV index is high.

When placed near a window, retractable awnings can lower energy bills. Such awnings can keep sunlight and ultraviolet rays from entering the home.

This lowers the temperature indoors, which reduces reliance on air conditioning units to maintain a comfortable temperature. These awnings can also extend t he life of furniture, which tends to fade when placed inside windows that get heavy sun exposure.

Plant trees.

An eco-friendly way to maintain and add to a patio’s aesthetic appeal is to plant trees around t he pat io. Trees can protect t he pat io from sunlight and u lt r av iolet r ad iat ion wh i le pr ov id i n g s ome s h ade for friends and family members w h o w a nt t o s p e nd s ome quality time outdoors on hot afternoons. Trees may provide privacy for people sitting on t he patio if t he t ree has low branches or if the patio is located beneath neighbors’ windows.

In addition, trees can create a serene setting around a patio, adding to its relaxing nature.

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 19

Little bit of paradise at home: Planning an outdoor oasis If it’s time to start thinking about making i mprovement s or add it ions to you r home, outside may be the best place to begin. Exterior home additions and yard improvements are high on homeowners’ lists of projects, according to the Better Homes and Gardens 2011 Consumer Preference Survey.

Among the top ranking features people want in their homes are decks or patios (8 4 percent), a nd low-mai ntena nce exteriors (79 percent). When it comes to the top ranking living spaces people want, outdoor grilling or living areas come in at 67 percent.

So whet her you want to make some improvements for selling your home, or just to enjoy for yourself, the planning experts at Fiberon, makers of innovative composite decking, railing and fencing products, have some tips to help you plan the perfect outdoor oasis.

Define the space.

An outdoor room could be the entire yard, or just a small part of it. Think about the outdoor space as having walls, a ceiling and f looring, just like an indoor room.

Walls are vertical elements that help

define a space, such as hedges, trees, lat t ice screens, raised garden beds, railings, a gazebo or fence to frame your outdoor space.

Ceilings provide shelter and shade.

T h i n k of aw n i ngs , u mbr el la s a nd pergolas. Or use what’s naturally there, like the branches of a shade tree. Flooring could be the existing lawn, a mulched pathway or a created f loor such as a concrete or flagstone patio, or a deck.

Decide the elements.

Once you know where your oasis is going to be located, it’s time to figure out what needs to go in it. Here are some elements to consider: Decking – A low-maintenance composite deck adds versatility and beauty that you can customize to meet just about any need. And composite deck can pay off, too. Composite deck additions are among the projects that recoup the most of their cost upon home resale, according to the Remodeling Magazine 2009-10 Cost vs.

Value Report.

When planning a deck, don’t make the mistake of building one that’s too small.

Mark the area you want to use, then put your outdoor furniture in it to see if you have the space you need. Use an online planning tool to explore designs, materials, colors and accessories. Be sure to check on the local building codes and permits that may be needed before starting any construction.

Fire and food.

Use your outdoor room any time of day by planning a place to cook and eat. An outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a portable grill or as elaborate as your budget will allow. A DIY pizza oven can also be an enjoyable way to enjoy cooking outside with friends and family.

Fireplaces, fire pits and chimineas bring coziness along with great function – and they help extend the outdoor enjoyment in cooler weather.

Accessories.

Just like indoor rooms, outdoor rooms benefit from appropriate accessories.

Lighting – Landscape lighting, lanterns, candles or strings of white outdoor lights can all add beautiful ambience.

Sound – Add pleasing audio with outdoor stereo sound systems, trickling water features or even just simple wind chimes.

C olor – Ga r den a r t , t able sc ap e s , cont a i ner pla nt i ngs a nd fabr ic c a n put colorful finishing touches on your outdoor room.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Soil solutions maintain healthy soil through the season A lawn that emanates green and a garden t hat’s home to succulent vegetables is desirable t o home ow ner s ac r oss t he country. Of course, such lawns a nd ga rdens t a ke t i me a nd effort, and a host of factors will determine if a lawn and garden i s s ome t h i ng home ow ne r s should be proud of or ashamed.

t hu mber s , wh i le ot her s a r e be st lef t t o t he loc a l agricultural bureau. These tests are a good investment, a s t he y w i l l r e move t he guesswork from fertilizing.

Wit hout a soi l t est , ma ny homeowners end up overdoing it when fertilizing, which can prove a costly mistake. Take a soil sample a few months before you plan to plant or landscape to g ive you rsel f enough time to apply the test’s r e c om mendat ions t o you r lawn and garden.

One such factor is soil health.

Healthy soil delivers food and water to plants, allowing them to thrive and add an aesthetic appeal to homes. To maintain healthy soil, homeowners may consider the following tips.

• G et the soil tested. When addressing soil healt h, it’s best to first get the soil tested.

A soil test will show which type of soil you have as well as its makeup and structure, and just how good or bad it currently is. Such tests can also reveal if the soil is missing a ny e ssent ia l nut r ient s.

Some soi l t est s c a n be conducted by novice green-

• A void wet soil. When soil is wet, don’t walk or drive over it and keep the kids out of the yard. When wet soil is walked on or driven over, the soil gets packed down, pushing out air and making it more difficult and sometimes impossible for water to pass through the soil.

That makes it hard for roots to grow. Gardeners who plan to plant this gardening season should wait for the soil to dry before planting.

• U se well-drained soil. Welldrained soil will dry fast and enable oxygen to reach the root zone, helping build stronger roots as a result. Plants with strong roots are more likely to survive severe weather.

• U se compost. Compost can prove very beneficial to soil healt h. Organic compost is typically loaded with nutrients that, upon maturity, feed the soil and promote soil health.

Biodegradable items like grass clippings, leaves and even excess food like apple cores can strengthen the compost.

Even wor ms, which brea k down compost quickly and add nutrients, can be a valuable addition to organic compost.

• D on’t bash bacteria. Bacteria is often seen as a formidable foe, but some bacteria can actually promote healthy soil.

Bact er ia dec ompose pla nt matter, releasing the nutritive value into the soil, and can also break dow n chemical pesticides. So while bacteria

is bad more of ten t han it’s beneficial, some bacteria are quite useful, particularly when it comes to healthy soil.

• D on’t be scared off by slime.

Like bacteria, slime has a bad reputation. However, veteran gardeners underst and t hat reput at ion isn’t warranted.

Slime mold is ugly, and many new ga rdeners see it a nd instantly assume it’s bad for their garden. However, slime molds are good for the soil, helping break down dead wood and leaves. They might not add aesthetic appeal, but slime molds do ser ve a pract ical

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• P ests c a n be a n a l ly to healthy soil. Some garden pests like mites, millipedes and centipedes are incorrectly assu med to be enem ies of healthy soil. In fact, such pests can vastly improve soil health.

Mites consume dead leaves and additional plant matter, enabl i ng bacter ia to more effectively release nutrients into the soil. Millipedes and centipedes are also beneficial to soi l, as t hei r d roppi ngs improve both the soil’s texture and fertility.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

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LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 21

Topiary: Shaped to perfection

By Tresa Erickson Feature Writer

3.

take the plant with ties S and put in the sun to grow for a couple of months.

Have you ever passed by a house with two ball-like trees flanking the front door? Those ball-like trees are called topiaries, and it took several hours of careful shaping and pruning to create them. If you are interested in creating some topiaries for your landscape, read these tips.

4.

rim off the main vertical T shoot of the plant when it reaches two feet and strip off the bottom two-thirds of the shoots.

People have been pruning plants into decorative shapes since ancient times. Today, there are many plants that are suited for shaping. Some of these include b ox wo o d s , f uc h s i a , h ol l y, hydrangeas, ivy and lantana.

In order to shape your plants, you need some l ig ht weig ht potting soil, a 3 1/2-inch pot, pruning shears, staking ties and water-soluble fertilizer. Follow these seven steps to create your own topiary:

1.

lant a rooted cutting in P some lightweight soil and let grow.

2.

ransplant the plant when T fully rooted to a 3 1/2-inch pot. Prune side shoots to promote vertical growth.

5.

eed the plant a waterF soluble fertilizer once a month and loosen the ties around it as it grows.

6.

emove the growing tips R to maintain a full top and prune as necessary.

7.

e p ot t he pl a nt when R needed to keep it healthy.

If your plant does not have a central leader branch, you may use a wire topiary form to shape it. Simply put the form into the pot and fill around it with soil.

Pla nt rooted cut t i ngs, w i nd individual strands around the topiary form and secure with twist ties. Put in the sun and let grow, fertilizing when needed.

Remove the growing tips to keep the top full and prune and repot when necessary.

As you r pla nt mat u res i nto a full-grown topiar y, it will

Natural fencing options for the yard A backyard can be a sanctuary for some people. It’s a place to which individuals can retreat, offering an extension of living space in the great outdoors. A natural fence can be an option that offers a bounty of benefits.

Topiaries are not that difficult to create, and they make wonderful additions to any landscape. Purchase the supplies and get started on yours today.

require less and less maintenance. All you will need to do to keep it looking nice is to prune it every couple of weeks, r emov i ng t he r ag ge d end s and tucking in the misplaced branches that may appear.

The purpose of a fence is to keep things in or out. Fences are often erected to serve as a barrier between properties and offer privacy. To achieve these goals, a homeowner doesn’t necessarily have to construct a wooden, plastic or wire fence.

M a ny pl a nt s c a n ser ve a s natural fencing options and be very attractive to look at.

Grasses C on side r t he f a s t- g r ow i ng bamboo. It is one of the fastestgrowing plants on the planet.

Some varieties may grow as much as 50 inches per day.

This tall, dense grass can be an inexpensive fencing option that quickly fills in on the perimeter of t he yard. Just be sure to take inventory of the bamboo because it can spread quickly.

Trees

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How about planting trees on the property? Evergreen trees, like Leyland Cyprus, may grow quickly. The dense foliage will quickly fill in and can create an attractive border around the house. But evergreens aren’t the only options.

Deciduous t rees can also be planted. The thick leaves will

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Shrubs Much in t he same way t hat e ve r g r e e n t r e e s c a n of fe r privacy on a larger scale, so can shrubs. There are many dif ferent shrubs t hat can be grown as dense or thin as a h o m e ow n e r d e s i r e s . Ro s e bushes can look attractive and serve as a deterrent to animals and people trying to get through the thorny brambles.

The same can be said for holly bushes, which will be prickly but attractive with their shiny, dark green leaves and bright berries. Certain shrubs are even marketed as natural fencing. A chat with a landscaper can yield many ideas of species that make great fences.

Flowers and plants Shr ubs and t rees aren’t t he on ly fenci ng opt ions. Ma ny homeowners like the cottage look of a ga rden f u l l of wildf lowers and other plants.

Congregating certain plants on the perimeter of the property can make an informal fence.

T r a i l i ng v i ne s l i ke iv y or vinca can be trained to climb vertically with the right support.

A thin mesh material or vertical slats can be installed where needed and the vines tied to these items before they become fully established.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

Got kids? Childproof your garden

By Tresa Erickson Feature Writer

• G et r id of pla nt s, such as sunflowers and rosemary, that attract dangerous insects.

A lot of kids run in and out of your home every day. Some are teenagers, and some are not.

Some are so young, in fact, that you’ve started to think it would be a good idea to childproof your home. While you’re at it, you might want to childproof your garden. Here’s how.

Just like homes, gardens pose hazards to young children. To keep the kids around your home safe, follow these tips: • Fence in all water features and water gardens.

• S tore a l l ga rden tools a nd chemicals in a locked cabinet out of the reach of children.

• R e move a l l p oi s onou s or pr ic k l y pl a nt s f r om you r garden, especially those with berries that may look edible but aren’t safe to eat.

• Eliminate wasp or hornet nests around your home and garden.

In addition to following these t ips, t ake caut ion whenever working in your garden.

• I n s i s t t h at c h i l d r e n s t ay indoors while you work with large machines like tillers and put away your garden tools and chemicals after each use.

• D on’t leave tools in the yard where children could play with them and injure themselves.

• T he same goes for chemicals.

Make sure you wear gloves when handling chemicals and wash your hands afterward.

T races of chem ic a ls cou ld remain on your hands, and you don’t want to transfer those chemicals to food or any other item in the house.

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Set up some rules about your g a r den a nd en for c e t he m .

Show children where the play areas are and insist that they play there, not in your garden.

Identify potential dangers like wa sp ne st s a nd enc ou r age children to tell you when they find such a danger and avoid it at all costs.

Explain to children that they should never eat anything they find outside without the consent of an adult.

It may t ake some work, but childproof ing your garden is essential to keep the children who run in and out of your home safe. Get started today.

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011

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Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011