Home and Garden 07/01/17

HOME & GARDEN • SATURDAY, JULY 1, 2017

4th

of July

party planning

Trees that thrive in Colorado July gardening calendar Hardy succulents

Look inside for these specials and many others.

Trees that thrive in Color ado’s high altitude

BY KRISTEN BURNSIDE, HARDING NURSERY

It’s a joy to have trees on your property, but there are some factors that are important to keep in mind to ensure the tree or shrub’s health and longevity.

The dividing line for a wide variety of trees appears to be at 7,500 feet in Colorado. Above this elevation, consider locally native species for landscaping.

You should also consider the length of the growing season, soil characteristics (moisture and drainage) and exposure, before selecting trees and shrubs for specific sites. Do not mix trees and shrubs with widely different water needs.

Plant trees and shrubs in the spring, as soon as the soil can be worked if the plant is fully dormant. Leafed-out plants should be planted after the last frost, up to mid-August.

Pay attention to the length of frostfree period. Some shrubs may survive at a given elevation, but may not produce flowers or fruit due to a short frost-free period. Mulch the root area to help delay freezing of the soil in the fall, and to retain soil moisture.

Sandy soils that are too loose or clay soils that are too tight can be improved with organic material such as compost, sphagnum peat, aged manure or a combination of these amendments. Work amendments into the soil where the tree or shrub will be planted. In areas where multiple shrubs will be planted, it is best to amend the entire area.

Snow-cover can be an excellent mulch.

It allows root growth to occur even during some periods of the winter. Encourage snow to drift over the root zone of young plants by using temporary snow fences in appropriate locations. In general, snow accumulation is best around a tree or shrub if the fence is placed on the upwind side of the tree or shrub.

Wrap trunks of young, thin barked deciduous trees with a commercial tree-wrap in the fall to prevent sunscald.

Wrap from the base up to the first or second main branch and tie or tape it

•

•

•

•

•

•

there. Remove the wrap in spring. Repeat annually until bark thickens. Some fencing or protection against elk, deer and rodents may also be needed.

Below is a selection of trees, well-suited to Colorado: • Ponderosa Pine, Pinus ponderosa Evergreen Altitude: 4,000-10,000 feet Moisture: Low to medium Long and open green needles that turn

HG 2 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

yellow-green in autumn • Colorado Blue Spruce, Picea pungens Evergreen Altitude: 4,000-9,500 feet Moisture: Medium to high Stiff green, silvery blue needles with horizontal branching • White Fir, Abies concolor Evergreen Altitude: 4,000-10,000 feet Moisture: Medium to high

•

Soft blue needles that are symmetrically pyramidal Southwestern White Pine, Pinus strobiformis Evergreen Altitude: 4,000-8,500 feet Moisture: Low-medium Blue-green needles and large cones Douglas Fir, Pseudotsuga menziesii Evergreen Altitude: 4,500-11,000 feet Moisture: Medium Soft medium to dark green needles in a pyramidal shape Quaking Aspen, Populus tremuloides Deciduous Altitude: 4,000-10,000 feet Moisture: High Leaves that flutter in the breeze with yellow to orange fall color Gambel Oak, Quercus gambelii Deciduous Altitude: 4,000-8,500 feet Moisture: Low-medium Shades of red, orange, yellow and brown in fall — acorns provide food for wildlife Narrowleaf Cottonwood, Populus angustifolia Deciduous Altitude: 4,000-9,500 feet Moisture: High Willow-like leaves, males do not produce cotton. Yellow fall color.

Thinleaf Alder, Alnus tenuifolia Deciduous Altitude: 5,000-10,000 feet Moisture: High Small tree or large shrub, often multistemmed. Yellow fall color.

Bigtooth Maple, Acer grandidentatum Deciduous Altitude: 4,500-7,000 feet Moisture: Low-medium Small tree or large shrub, often multistemmed. Fruits resemble miniature pine cones. Yellow fall color.

Harding Nursery is located at 721 N. Powers Blvd.

4th of JULY SAVINGS! HOURS: Mon thru Sat: 8am to 6pm Sunday: 9am to 5pm • Open July 4th from 9am to 3pm

NURSERY GROWN QUAKING ASPENS 6-8 foot, B&B

3 $299.95 FOR

SAVE 20%

ON DECIDUOUS & EVERGREEN TREES

starting at $189.95 & UP!

Limit 2 per customer. Must present coupon at time of purchase. Offer cannot be combined with any other discounted offer. Offer expires 7/7/17.

BUY 3 PERENNIALS priced at $9.99 (each),

GET 1 FREE!

Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Offer cannot be combined with any other discounted offer.

Offer expires 7/7/17.

Unlimited. Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Offers cannot be combined. Expires 7/7/17.

ORNAMENTAL GRASSES

SAVE $10

20% OFF $17.95 & up

Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Offer cannot be combined with any other discounted offer. Offer expires 7/7/17

TAKE $5 OFF

ANY #5 DECIDUOUS SHRUB starting at $34.95 & UP! Excludes Roses. Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Offer cannot be combined with any other discounted offer.

Limit of 6 per customer. Offer expires 7/7/17.

ON CONTAINER DECIDUOUS TREES PRICED BETWEEN $62.95 & $198.95.

Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Offer cannot be combined with any other discounted offer. Offer expires 7/7/17.

20% OFF

DECORATIVE ITEMS & POTS Must present coupon at time of purchase.

Offer cannot be combined with any other discounted offer. Offer expires 7/7/17.

2017

719.596.5712 721 N. Powers Blvd www.hardingnursery.com SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 3

YEAR ROUND GARDENING

July gardening calendar

BY EILEEN TULLY, COLORADO MASTER GARDENER

H

Photo by Debra Stinton Othitis

ow’s your garden looking now? Do you have a serious case of the “shags” where the remains of faded spring bulbs are drooping? If so, you can gently tug out or cut back leaves of daffodil, hyacinth and tulips. Cut back the stalks of lupine and dried seed pods on candytuft as well as the crisp remains of lilacs. Cleaning up the edge of your garden — even applying some mulch touch-ups — will do a lot to improve the overall look of the garden. If you have some empty areas where you haven’t decided what to plant permanently, you can fill the area with colorful containers

of annuals.

If weeds are threatening to take over, persist with hand pulling or hoeing. Only resort to chemicals if it’s absolutely necessary.

evening.

• Check that your irrigation system is reaching all areas of the lawn and mow as often as needed keeping grass height between two-and-a-half to three inches.

WATERING

PINCHING, PRUNING AND SHAPING

• If we don’t get sufficient rainfall, be sure to deeply water your trees. Check the top and outer leaves of trees and shrubs for drought injury. Pine needles turning brown on the part of the branch closest to the trunk is normal, but look for browning on the tip of the branch — it’s a sign the tree is in trouble.

• Water the lawn early in the morning before 9 a.m. or after 8 p.m. in the

• Prune arborvitae, junipers and boxwood once new growth has expanded the shape of the plant. When pruning, shape shrubs so light can reach all parts of the plant.

• Stop pinching fall blooming perennials such as asters and chrysanthemums.

But do pinch back petunias when they get ‘leggy.’ It will encourage the plant to

branch and become fuller.

• Cut back delphinium and perennial salvia to encourage a second bloom.

• Fertilize hybrid tea and standard roses.

Remove faded flowers to encourage new blooms. Cut the stem of single flowering roses back to the first five-leaflet leaf.

Prune climbing roses after flowering.

• Pinch back or disbud dahlias for larger flowers. Remove at least two pair of side buds below the top bud.

• Dig and divide bearded iris and spring blooming poppies. Divide all iris that are crowded and discard old, large or diseased rhizomes • Deadheading — an odd word for the process by which we snip dried flowers CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

HG 4 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

4th Of July Sale!

It’s not too late, get the deck or patio colorful for 4th of July barbeques. Fill the pots, plant the front bed, company’s coming!

25% OFF

All hanging baskets and planted containers All sizes, all varieties While Supplies Last! Limit 2 per coupon.

Must Present Coupon. Expires 7/7/2017

YEAR ROUND GARDENING

SUCCULENT SALE!

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

on perennials — is essential to increase blooms and keep the garden looking neat.

VEGETABLE GARDEN

• Harvest garlic when several of the lower leaves go brown but five-or-six of the top leaves are still green. Place out of direct sunlight in an area with good air circulation.

• Tomatoes need consistent watering to prevent blossom end rot and misshapen fruit.

• Harvest zucchini when the fruits are six-to-eight inches long. They are at their best at that size.

• Replant leaf lettuce and sow seeds of sugar snap peas for a fall harvest.

DISEASES AND PESTS

• Watch for powdery mildew on garden phlox and roses. Pruning phlox and roses to keep an open vase-like shape will encourage air circulation and help prevent powdery mildew, but if you notice it on the plant use a product containing sulphur as a safe and environmentally friendly way to control the disease.

• Control pests using the least toxic measure possible. Tomato hornworms can be picked off the plant and tossed aside. Check Alberta Spruce and juniper for a sprawling white web — it’s a sign of spider mites. A strong spray of water from a hose will temporarily get rid of them. Insecticidal soap is effective controlling aphids which seem to appear overnight in the billions on lupine and other plants. Lady beetles (lady bugs) are beneficial insects and will help you control unwanted garden pests.

When you have questions, Colorado State University Extension has research based answers. Get answers to your horticulture questions by ask.extension.org any time, day or night. Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. — 12 p.m. you can phone 719-5207684 or emailing CSUmg2@elpasoco.com.

For current garden tips visit www.facebook. com/ColoradoMasterGardeners.EPC For current classes visit elpaso.extension. colostate.edu.

All outdoor succulents on sale!

20% OFF all varieties, over 20 different types to choose from!

While Supplies Last! All Sizes.

Must Present Coupon. Expires 7/7/2017

Plants for the Western Garden

We Carry

Local Raw HONEY

We Carry

Local Raw HONEY

719.477.0267 www.summerlandgardens.com

We Carry 124 E. Cheyenne Rd. Local Garden Center

1827Raw W. Uintah

near the intersection of S. Nevada & Cheyenne Rd.

HONEY

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

632-8491 KNOWLEDGE • INTEGRITY • QUALITY PRODUCTS

www.RicksGarden.com

BUY OR RENT TO OWN! No Credit Check!

FAMILY OWNED SINCE 1948

We Carry

Garden CenterLocal Raw

HONEY 1827 W. Uintah West of I-25

Across From Uintah Shopping Center 1827 W. Uintah OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

632-8491

Garden Center

FRONT RANGE

PORTABLE BUILDINGS

Authorized Dealer of Weather King Portable Buildings.

Design your custom building online with our 3D Shed Builder!

FREE DELIVERY & SETUP *Within 50 mile radius of dealer

(719) 645-0084 weatherking.biz

All Maintenance of Pikes Peak • Yard ServicesWeekly, Monthly & Seasonally • Fence Construction & Repair • Tree Removal & Trimming • Drywall & Painting

All Clean of Pikes Peak – Your Full Service Residential and Commercial Cleaning Professionals • Move In & Out • Power Washing • Post Construction • Commercial Contracts

Call For Free Estimates! 719-287-4933 www.allcleanofpikespeak.com

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

We Carry Local Raw Honey

www.RicksGarden.com 632-8491 www.RicksGarden.com

1827 W. Uintah

Garden Center

20% OFF $10Plants OFF 20% OFF Baskets 3 for $12 Hanging All632-8491 Vegetable 1827 W. Uintah

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

This Spuds For You

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

Perennial Flowers

www.RicksGarden.com Coupon must be presented at time of We Carry

Local Raw HONEY

We Carry

Local Raw HONEY

Buy 1 Get 1 FREE

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. One coupon per customer. Expires 4/30/2017

Garden Center

1827 W. Uintah

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

632-8491

www.RicksGarden.com

HUGE

Selection

Garden Center

632-8491

Garden Soils

All Vegetable & Flower Seeds www.RicksGarden.com Local

purchase. One coupon per customer. Expires 4/30/2017

1827 W. Uintah

We Carry

Raw HONEY

sh ry Fre nto e Inv

Garden Center

1827 W. Uintah

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

www.RicksGarden.com

www.RicksGarden.com

No Limit!

632-8491

632-8491

We Carry

Local Raw HONEY

$29.99 -OR2 for $50

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. One coupon per customer. Expires 4/30/2017

Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. One coupon per customer. Expires 4/30/2017

Garden Center

1827 W. Uintah

West of I-25 Across From Uintah Shopping Center

632-8491

www.RicksGarden.com

Not valid with any other coupon. Expires 7/7/17.

Not valid with any other coupon. Expires 7/7/17.

Shade Cloth

Organic Insect Controls

Allows enough light to grow under while offering HAIL protection. $1.99 per linear ft, 6ft wide, Reg $2.49 per ft.

NoLo Bait Ladybugs 1 lb $24.99 5 lb $59.99

1500 $8.99

Must present coupon.

Not7/7/17. valid with anyNot other coupon.

Expires Not valid with any other coupon.

Expires valid with any other6/30/17. coupon. Expires 7/7/17.

Hardwood Mulch Soil

Mender

4 Bags For

$24

(Reg. $7.99/bag)

Limit 12 bags. While supplies last.

Must present coupon. Not valid with any other coupon. Expires 7/7/17.

SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 5

partyideas INVENTIVE FOURTH OF JULY

F

BY GINA CRONIN, GINA.CRONIN@GAZETTE.COM

THOUGH MUCH ABOUT INDEPENDENCE D AY H A S S T AY E D T H E S A M E , P A R T Y HOSTS ARE COMING UP WITH N E W, F U N A N D I N N O V A T I V E I D E A S EVERY YEAR.

••

HG 6 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

ourth of July commemorates the birth of the United States of America as an independent nation 241 years ago. Since that triumphant day in 1776, July Fourth has been observed — though it became a paid federal holiday in 1938.

The first anniversary in 1777 was celebrated in a similar manner as is seen today, with music, parades, toasts, speeches, fireworks, 13-gun salutes, an official dinner for the Continental Congress, and ships decorated in red, white and blue Today, citizens nationwide continue to attend huge fireworks displays, backyard

barbecues, summer-themed parties, family get-togethers and festive house parties.

The well-deserved day off is dotted with patriotic songs, commemorative speeches, community parades, live music and more.

Though much has stayed the same, party hosts are coming up with new, fun and innovative ideas every year.

There are thousands of ideas online, but I’ve compiled some of my favorites.

THE DÉCOR

How about a decoration that is also useful? Purchase enough lightweight American flag scarves for everyone in your party and tie them elegantly around the back of CONTINUED ON PAGE 7

BEAT THE RUSH Lawn Mower Tune-ups

PARTY IDEAS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

each chair. These double as party favors that guests can wear all summer long.

Also, to complete each place setting — place the cutlery to the right of the plate and a bundle of sparklers tied snug with red, white and blue ribbon to the left side.

Make sure kids are supervised by an adult if playing with sparklers.

THE DRINK

AnnsEntitledLife.com features a fabulous blue mule cocktail recipe that is sure to delight. Grab your copper mug and add a half-ounce of fresh lime juice, two ounces of vodka, one ounce of Blue Curaçao and three ounces of ginger beer. Throw in some ice, top with sugar-dusted blueberries and garnish with a strawberry and voilà, a patriotic spirit awaits. For an alcohol-free, kid-friendly version, omit all alcohol (vodka, blue curaçao and ginger beer) and substitute blue Hawaiian punch (or other blue kid’s drink) and ginger ale.

THE APPETIZER

Put a spin on your party dip with an avocado spinach artichoke dip. Serve with tortilla chips or crostini — both would go perfectly.

A recipe from Delish.com lists two avocados, juice of one lemon, four ounces cream cheese, one clove of garlic — minced, one cup of frozen chopped spinach — drained, one can artichoke hearts — chopped, sea salt and crushed red pepper flakes as the ingredients. For a dairy-free or vegan option, sub vegan cream cheese (available at

Trader Joes, Whole Foods, Sprouts, Natural Grocers and other markets). To start, puree the avocado, lemon, cream cheese and garlic in a food processor. Next, scoop avocado mixture into a bowl and fold in spinach and artichoke.

Finally, add salt and red pepper to taste and as a garnish.

THE MEAL

Nothing says America like hot dogs — and this recipe, found on HandmadeInTheHeartland.com, is one crowd-pleasing spin on a classic. I make these firecracker dogs with Field Roast vegan frankfurters and Follow Your Heart block cheese, but you can use whatever is appropriate for your party.

You will need a star cookie cutter, 16 wooden skewers, refrigerated crescent roll dough, 16 hot dogs and thick cheese slices for this recipe.

To make, preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit; stick a skewer all the way lengthwise through each hot dog, with about two inches of space at the top of the skewer; wrap the crescent dough like a spiral around each hot dog, leaving gaps between the spirals; bake for 15-20 minutes, until crescent is golden brown; while baking, grab your thick cheese slices and cut with star cookie cutters; finally, when the hot dogs are baked, top your skewer with the star-shaped cheese slice. Presentation is everything with these,

so instead of placing on a plate, stick the bottom end of each skewer into a Styrofoam base so they can stick straight up and out of a bowl filled with festive décor.

THE DESSERT No party is complete without using a mason jar in a clever way, so trying employing them in this delightful red, white and blue cupcakein-a-jar recipe by TheTomKatStudio.com. For this recipe you’ll need half-pint clear canning jars, twoinch round cookie cutters, boxed vanilla cake mix and prepared vanilla frosting. To make, prepare the cake according to box instructions then divide the mix evenly among three bowls. Use food coloring to make one batter red, the other blue and leave the last one as-is. Lightly grease three separate nine inch pans, add the batters evenly (one color per pan), and bake the three cakes according to box instructions.

When baked and fully cooled, use twoinch round cookie cutters to cut out circles of cake that will fit into the mason jars. To assemble, place the blue cake then a layer of vanilla frosting on top; followed by the white cake and a layer of vanilla frosting on top; followed by the red cake and a generous helping of vanilla frosting on top and finished off with red, white and blue sprinkles.

Use these as ideas as inspiration for any last-minute party-planning. Your guests will be impressed by your Fourth of July flair.

$49.95 (+ parts)

(Extra for riders/multi-blade commercial mowers)

We Sell and Service:

Mowers, Trimmers Chain Saws, Log Splitters Garden Tractors, Generators Pressure Washers Toro - MTD - Murray Husqvarna - DR - Troy Bilt Commercial/Residential

ASPEN LEAF OUTDOOR POWER EQUIPMENT 777 Conrad St.

Colo Sps, CO 80915

1blk Southeast of Powers & Galley

719-591-2816

SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 7

F

BY JULIE MCINTYRE, SUMMERLAND GARDENS

Hardy succulents

ourth of July is here — time to add some fireworks to the garden. That is, plants that are flashy, colorful and add a little kapow to the landscape. Of course I’m talking about hardy succulents. Hardy not only because they are tough plants, but also because they survive our winters. Succulents continue to be popular garden additions, luring us with their forgiving nature, beautiful leaves and colorful blooms.

Firstly, succulents are plants that have adapted to dry conditions, and/or unpredictable rainfall by storing water in their leaves. They are identified by their plump, fleshy leaves, with many varieties growing low to the ground and in rosettes.

Tolerant of dry conditions, heat and sun, their only request is well-draining soil where water won’t collect and pool. They resent compost and just want quickdraining soil. They grow on sunny slopes, rocky areas and neglected spots, making

••

great additions along walkways, exposed dry sites, and even in a low bowl on the sunny patio table. They will still need to be watered, but in lesser amounts than traditional perennials require.

We carry many varieties to choose

HG 8 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

from, the most popular being hens-andchicks, sedums (stonecrops) and ice plants. Some interesting ones to try are the Cobweb hens-and-chicks whose hairs on the end of the leaves look like spider webbing. Or the red-leaf varieties that

add color and texture without relying on the flowers. There are many sedums to choose from, including dark-leaved varieties called dragon’s blood or voodoo that creep along the ground and root in as they grow, making them an attractive spreading groundcover.

There are also varieties with blue colored leaves, like a blue spruce, or chartreuse green leaves that brighten the area. Ice plants, named for the shimmering ice-like quality of their leaves and flowers, provide bright daisy-like flowers in orange, purple, red, pink and yellow. Flowers form a carpet on these mat growers, and once you see them in bloom you will feel compelled to find a spot to fit one in. Water all your succulents regularly through the season, but stop watering in the fall to prepare them for dormancy and winter freezes.

Stop by and we’ll help you design a patio pot, front bed or anything you need.

Summerland Gardens is located at 124 E. Cheyenne Rd.

AROUND THE HOUSE

Solutions for water issues

BY KEN MOON, SPECIAL TO THE GAZETTE

KEN MOON

Dear Ken: My sump pump has been running continuously, because a constant stream of water is running into the pit. Do you think I have an underground water issue? Or do you think it’s my drainage?

— Lenny

We’ve haven’t had a lot of rain lately, so I tend to think it’s underground water.

Your home may be situated on some sort of underground clay layer that is carrying water toward the house. If this runs yearround that may indicate an underground spring or ancient arroyo. If this starts in the spring it may be sprinkler water from your uphill neighbors. In either case, this is a chronic problem that’s difficult to fix.

Consult with a landscape contractor who might be able to dig an interceptor ditch around the outside. Also, make sure you have a spare sump pump and a water alarm in the pit in case of pump failure.

You don’t need any additional water load once the rains begin, so it’s a good idea to re-check the downspouts.

Make sure that plastic flex pipe — the solid, non-perforated black one — runs the water stream well away from the foundation and out to the street or down a slope. Remember that we dig the hole bigger than the house when we build, so that first four or five feet out from the foundation is quite vulnerable to moisture intrusion. Other wet impacts can come from overwatering flowers and bushes, soil sloped the wrong way, or leaks in the sprinkler valve box.

There are a couple of other reasons that a sump pump might run continuously. If there is a leak anywhere in the riser pipe, the water will drop right back into the hole to be re-pumped over and over. Also, if the pump is tipped out of level or its float — the part that turns it on and off — is stuck, the pump will never quit.

Dear Ken: What do you think of the salt versus no salt debate when it comes to water softeners?

— Ken

I’m a traditionalist. The chemistry of the good old sodium (salt) ion exchange method is so simple, and the new softeners are so trouble-free, that I’d advise you to stick with this system.

In the old days, you had to decide on your own how often and when the system would regenerate itself. Now, a computer measures how many grains of hard water have passed through, so it decides when and how long to run the exchange. It saves you lots of money on salt. By the way, use the rounded tablets instead of the cheaper and rougher material.

Spectacular 4th of July Savings!

OPEN July 4th 9am-2:30pm!

Lady Bugs

1500 only $8.99

10% off

Your Entire Purchase of

GARDEN ART • Fountains • Statuaries • Spinners, Glass Art, etc.

Dear Ken: There is a black, grayish stain on the linoleum near the toilet in the basement. It won’t come off. What’s up here?

— Bob That’s a water stain trapped between the glossy and colored layers of the vinyl. You have no choice but to replace it. Chances are the water is coming from one of two places. The shower may be leaking on to the floor because the curtain gets left outside the stall, or the toilet may be leaking around its base.

This is quite common in basements since the concrete floor can be a little off-level or wavy. When you reset the stool after the new floor goes in, it may be helpful to install two wax rings instead of a single.

Dear Ken: My daughters throw their bath towels in a heap in the corner.

They start to smell and get mildew. How can I get them to smell sweeter?

— David I’ve had good luck by pouring a couple of generous dollops of full strength ammonia into the wash along with the detergent. Maybe you can show the girls how it’s done. Good luck!

Ken Moon is a home inspector in the Pikes Peak region. His radio show airs at 9 a.m. Saturday and is carried on KRDO, AM 1240 and FM 105.5. Visit AroundTheHouse.com.

Expires July 16, 2017. Must present coupon.

Limit one free per customer.

PERENNIAL VINES

$5.00 OFF

6” pot

• 25 Clematis Varieties • Trumpet • Silver Lace • Wisteria • Honey Suckle • Virginia Creeper Expires July 16, 2016. Must present coupon.

NO LIMIT.

Geraniums

10” Decorator Pot

Buy 1 Get 1 FREE! Reg. $25.99

Expires July 16, 2017. Must present coupon.

While supplies last. No Limit

GREAT SELECTION

PERENNIALS for Sun Drenched Areas OVER 200 Varieties

FREE

PERENNIAL FOOD $16.99 Value 15# Bag covers 700 sq. ft.

With purchase of 5 Perennials in 6” or larger pots Expires July 16, 2017. Must present coupon.

Limit one free per customer.

Hours: Mon-Fri 9-5:30 Sat 9-5 Sun 9-4 July 4th 9-2:30 SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 9

a B r l

i e s c f o h

a i l p d w c

t o t s

i f n t o a W f T s

s s t

w p a

Saturday, July 1, 2017

GOREN BRIDGE BOB JONES GORENWITH BRIDGE ©2017 Tribune Content Agency, LLC

WEEKLY BRIDGE QUIZ “Putting garden success in the palm of your hand since 1934.”

Serving Colorado Springs Since 1934

Geraniums Stand Up to Summer

Q 1 - North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ J 8 7 6 ♥ A J 8 6 5 3 ♦ Void ♣ A 6 2

As dealer, what call would you make?

Q 2 - East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ 10 9 ♥ A Q 9 8 2 ♦ K J 4 ♣ J 5 3 WEST NORTH EAST 1♣ Pass 1NT

HEAT!

SOUTH ?

What call would you make?

Q 3 - Both vulnerable, as South, you hold:

Spencer’s Tub Geraniums are Often Imitated, NEVER Duplicated!

Get them while you can!

Limited supply!

♠A3♥ A542♦ K84 ♣Q942

Right-hand opponent opens one club.

What call would you make?

CLOSED 4TH OF JULY We still have a nice selection of 10” and 12” Hanging Baskets

Buy One Get One Free of equal or lesser value.

Great selection and many sizes to choose from.

(Excluding Herbs) Sale Friday June 30th thru July 3rd.

While supplies last.

Cow & Compost SALE!

Q 4 - North-South vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠AK932♥ KQ53♦ K8 ♣98

NORTH EAST SOUTH WEST 1♥ 2♣ 3♣* Pass 3♦ Pass 3♠ Pass 4♥ Pass ? *Limit raise or better in hearts

What call would you make?

Q 5 - East-West vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ 5 3 ♥ K 10 8 7 ♦ K Q 7 5 ♣ Q 6 3

Partner passes as dealer, and righthand opponent opens one spade.

What call would you make?

Q 6 - Neither vulnerable, as South, you hold: ♠ K Q 10 2 ♥ K 10 9 6 4 ♦ 7 ♣ 5 3 2

Partner passes as dealer, and righthand opponent opens one diamond.

What call would you make?

Look for answers on Monday.

(Bob Jones welcomes readers’ e-mails: tcaeditors@tribpub.com)

CLOSEOUT SALE! Now thru July 8th!

CLOSED JULY 4th!

MOST ITEMS

50% OFF!

1 cu. ft. bags

3 for $9.99

Fresh Colorado produce in NOW! Featuring Colorado Peaches!

We now have Hail Cloth!

4720 Center Valley Drive Fountain, CO • 392-2726

Sale Friday June 30th thru July 3rd.

1430 South Tejon Street CO Spgs, CO • 632-2788

Hours: Mon. – Sat. 9 – 6, Sun. 10 – 4 WWW.SPENCERSGARDENS.COM HG 10 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

Dutch Heritage Falcon Garden Center 6985 Meridian Rd • Peyton, CO 80831 719 201-5602

Dutch Heritage Black Forest Garden Center

11424 Black Forest Rd. • Colorado Springs, CO 80908 719 491-0651

denniS The menaCe

The Family CirCuS

by hank ketcham

Sherman’S lagoon

PiCkleS

by Brian Crane

mr BoFFo

by Joe martin

by J. P. Toomey

by Bil keane

rhymeS wiTh orange by hilary Price

marmaduke

by Brad and Paul anderson

Baldo

by hector Cantu and Carlos Castellanos

SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 11

Blondie

by dean young and John marshall

muTTS

by Patrick mcdonnell

Funky winkerBean

luann

by greg evans

PeanuTS

by Charles Schulz

by Tom Batiuk

HG 12 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

loS angeleS TimeS CroSSword

non SequiTur

by wiley

by edited by rich norris and Joyce lewis

lola

by Todd Clark

BeeTle Bailey across 1 Annual July 1 celebration marking the 1867 signing of the British North America Act 10 Some Australian carvings 14 Elaborate sci-fi costume component 16 Supermarket count 17 Old Andorran currency 18 Arrive 19 Dickensian denouncement 22 Guided 23 Get out of Dodge 24 Australian Stock Horses, perhaps 28 Annex 29 Yusufislam.com musician 30 Having a short cut 31 Like home, say 33 Hang (around) 36 They may be excuses 37 Didn’t miss, as a bus 38 “Gr8 joke!”

39 Unisex nickname 40 4/8/74 record breaker 41 Brie who played Trudy on “Mad Men” 45 Home Depot work apparel 46 Spicy meatless dish 50 Legacy Hartsfield-Jackson tenant 51 Thinking indicator down 1 Beardie, for one 2 Former senator Specter 3 Twizzlers pieces 4 Ancient history adjective 5 Completed 6 This, that or the other 7 Not soaked yet 8 Winglike parts 9 Centuries-old Asian wool sources 10 Off-topic 11 Out of order 12 Catch from the pier

13 Learners, hopefully 15 Shoulder protection 16 Imaging company once big in film 19 Bugs 20 Ancient French region 21 It flies off store shelves 24 Artist Picasso 25 Netanyahu’s predecessor 26 CBer’s punctuation 27 Friend of Homer 29 “Harold and Maude” co-star Bud 30 Mover of many 31 Misled 32 Do a favor for 33 Sentence ender 34 Head turner 35 It helps you focus 36 Many a Balkan 37 Nautical 40 Plant-ruining genus 42 Make believable 43 Palindromic fellow 44 Palindromic bread 45 Rights org.

47 Lunch holder 48 In most mammals, the upper one has a groove called a philtrum 49 Memorable time

by mort, greg, and Brian walker

hagar The horriBle

moTher gooSe

by Chris Browne

by mike Peters

Friday’s Puzzle Solved

Tundra

by Chad Carpenter

SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 13

Bizarro

by dan Piraro

argyle SweaTer

by Scott hilburn

CeleBriTy CiPher by luis Campos Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another.

B.C.

by hart

ziTS

by Jerry Scott and Jim Borgman

JumP STarT

Frazz

by robb armstrong

by Jef mallett

HG 14 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

dilBerT

by Scott adams

Sally ForTh

by Francesco marciuliano and Jim keefe

BaBy BlueS

by Jerry Scott and rick kirkman

PearlS BeFore Swine by Stephan Pastis

PooCh CaFe

by Paul gilligan

SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017 I THE GAZETTE I HG 15

TAKE OUR ADVICE ADVICE

Dear Amy: I am one of three sisters who live relatively stable and productive lives after some rough patches growing up. Our elderly parents have always had a blind spot for our brother, who is in and out of rehab, legal problems, and financial crises of his AMY DICKINSON own making. Now it appears that he has abandoned his kids.

He is in his mid-50s and has been living with my parents on and off over the last two years. I’d like to have a relationship with my parents, but their world seems to revolve around their dependent son.

When I tried to express concern about their enabling him, my mom got angry and defensive.

They claim they’re “staying out of it” by not discussing his ongoing addiction, financial troubles, family issues, etc., but as long as my brother is living a comfortable and enabled life with them, his problems are their problems.

I think they’re doing more harm than good, and the whole thing really bothers me. I don’t want to be around this, so I avoid them, but I feel guilty.

— Wayward Daughter

ADVICE

Question: I’ve been exercising regularly for years, and my friend, who I used to run with, wants to get back into it.

But I think her DR. OZ AND DR. ROIZEN excess weight is keeping her on the sidelines. What can I tell her to get her back out there? — Kerry Q., Austin, Texas

Dear Daughter: You are obviously very upset with your brother and are judgmental about his addiction and financial and work problems, as well as his relationships with his children and your parents. You should share your frank and honest views directly with him.

Your parents are free to make their own choices, including the choice to possibly impede your brother’s progress by enabling him. However, if he is currently sober, this low-stress life with your parents might be helping him to stay sober.

You and your sisters should all read up on addiction and attend Al-anon meetings (Al-anon.org).

What you will learn is that while you have a right to your own anger and resentment, you, too, must surrender to others’ rights to make terrible choices. If you think your parents are being coerced, forced, or abused, you should act to protect them. Otherwise, accepting some simple realities may liberate you from your anger.

Answer: A new study has uncovered information that should inspire her. It seems that people who are obese and get back to, or start, exercising, build stronger bones by burning fat that’s accumulated in their bone marrow.

Researchers from University of North Carolina School of Medicine have found that when obese people start exercising, the bone marrow fat they burn not only improves the strength, quality and even quantity of their bones — they can see measurable results in weeks.

Remind your friend about how she used to enjoy exercising. She has the memories, so she knows how good exercise can make her feel. Also, tell her that there’s research proving there’s a link between regular exercise and stress reduction, easing of depression and happiness. And she’ll be helping you stick with it if she joins you!

While that is true for everybody, research shows that focusing on exercise that makes you happy is especially motivating for women — and helps them keep exercising. Misguided motivation (“I am exercising because I should, and it is virtuous”) is why 67 percent of gym memberships are never used — even once!

So help your friend pick out a new set of really good running/walking shoes; get her doing preworkout stretches with you; then start out slowly.

Mix up what you try — maybe interval walking and a back-to-the-beginning yoga class. Tip: So you don’t cut back on your regular exercise routine, do part or all of you usual workout before joining your friend as a workout buddy.

Send questions to askamy@tribune.com or to Ask Amy, Chicago Tribune, TT500, 435 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60611.

Email health and wellness questions to youdocsdaily@sharecare.com.

—

—

ADVICE

HINTS FROM HELOISE

Dear Heloise: I have a pet sitter stay at our home to care for our beloved dogs when we travel.

For my peace of mind, I change the ID tags on their collars to reflect the pet sitter’s cellphone number instead of mine.

This is especially important when we’re on long trips, out of the country or on a cruise ship.

— Nancy in California

Wonderful, Nancy! Readers, what other pet/ travel hints can you come up with? — Heloise Dear Heloise: Help! What’s the difference between white and cider vinegar? I read you in The (Van Wert, Ohio) Times Bulletin. — A Faithful Reader, Fort Wayne, Ind. Ah, vinegar — one of my favorites. White vinegar and cider vinegar are similar; they are both made of acetic acid.

White vinegar typically has more acid (between 5 percent and 8 percent), is more sour and generally is more effective in cleaning.

Cider vinegar is derived from apples and has a golden color, and can include a harmless residue in the bottle, from the heating process, called “mother of vinegar.”

Cider vinegar often is promoted as a health agent, although many of these claims are not proven.

Would you like a collection of my favorite vinegar hints and recipes? Visit www.Heloise.com to order, or send a stamped (70 cents), long, self-addressed envelope, along with $5, to: Heloise/ Vinegar, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio TX 782795001. — Heloise Dear Heloise: Living close to the beach and with dirty, sandy feet from time to time, I found a way to easily scrub them up, shiny-clean!

I keep a bottle of inexpensive shampoo in the shower, grab a heavy washcloth, load it up with shampoo and scrub away. Shiny feet — it works!

— Susie in Huntington Beach, Calif.

—

Send hints via email to heloise@heloise.com or via post to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001.

TODAY’S HOROSCOPES BY JERALDINE SAUNDERS ARIES (March 21-April 19) Restrain an impulsive desire to win at all costs, especially if your opponent is a family member.

Your best bet is to exercise self-discipline.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Wait until the timing is better to put your ideas into action. Get in touch with the latest trends by hobnobbing with acquaintances or volunteering.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20) Keep an eye on the bottom line. Sudden emergencies, family necessities or your own personal whims might put a dent into savings.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) Settle down before you drown. You are too busy trying to fill everyone’s cup while your own cup is empty. In a quest for excitement, you might take risks that are not reasonable.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) There is no magic bullet to put the opposition out of commission. Don’t act on impulse. Employ organizational strategies to conquer schedule conflicts.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Shifting conditions might be on your mind. Those who enter your social circle may stir your interests.

Add your own two cents to plans while a sense of community spirit prevails.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You might decide to drive around without a road map or buy a lottery ticket. You might find unique ways to create some excitement.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Gather information and opinions from as large an array of people as possible. Take time to talk over future plans with a trustworthy companion.

HG 16 I THE GAZETTE I SATURDAY, JUL 1, 2017

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) It is time to re-evaluate your financial status or balance the checkbook. This is a poor time to sign agreements, invest, or put your heart on the line.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Social activities might be at the center of your universe. Some people you meet might seem much more glamorous and popular than they really are.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Buy what will last the longest. There are times when it is better to put money to work for you rather than working for money. Sharing with others may be one way to show your love.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) Sensitive flowers need gentle handling. Nurture important relationships and be especially kind and generous to family members.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

July 1

Friends may have much influence on your overall happiness the next two to three weeks.

Join a new group or participate in community gatherings so you can meet new friends. Put romance on the back burner in July as a new conquest might not live up to its promise. By August your ambitions are in high gear, so you will be able to work hard to reach your goals.

Plan ahead so that you can put your projects into motion.