2020 Spring Home & Garden by The Daily Star

HOME & GARDEN

A Publication of The Daily Star ~ Wednesday, March 25, 2020

MARCH 25, 26 AND 27, 2020

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Master Gardener volunteers work at the Birdsong Farm Community Garden, located between Hamden and Delhi, in this undated photo. Birdsong is a partnership between CCE of Delaware County and the Lamson family. CONTRIBUTED

Master Gardeners share love of growing things By Allison Collins Contributing Writer

ecoming a Cornell Cooperative Extension-certified Master Gardener is about sowing more than just seeds. The program, launched in Washington in 1972, pairs planting prowess with philanthropy. According to the CCE of Delaware County website, the Master Gardener program “is a national program of trained volunteers work(ing) in partnership with their county Cooperative Extension office to expand educational outreach throughout the community by providing home gardeners with research-based information.” Master Gardeners, the site says, “assist with gardening projects in the community, teach classes and workshops, plant and maintain demonstration gardens at CCE, provide information and soil pH testing at events and answer gardening questions.” “It’s really about volunteerism,” Carla Hegeman Crim, Master Gardener and horticulture educator with CCE of Delaware County, said. “People have gained these skills over the course of a lifetime and of course they get more in the training, but they also just want to get out and share their love of gardening with their specific community.” Trainings, the site says, are open to anyone who “enjoys people and plants.” “Master Gardeners … usually have no professional gardening or landscaping experience,” the site says. “Trainees should have a basic knowledge of, or interest in, gardening; enthusiasm for acquiring and

“It’s not something people should be intimidated by. You just need a love of gardening, a willingness to help others and the time to give.” Carla Hegeman Crim, Master Gardener and horticulture educator with CCE of Delaware County sharing horticultural knowledge and skills; good communications skills; and a willingness and free time to participate in volunteer educational activities.” Master Gardener programs exist in 46 states. Delaware County’s program is one of the nation’s youngest, taking root in 2016. “We’re pretty new to the game,” Crim said, “but we’ve been really lucky in the last couple of years and we have a lot of good people with passion who say, ‘I can make a difference.’” Crim said she began helping to facilitate trainings in 2018 and, this year, will participate in a “true, four-county effort” between Delaware, Herkimer, Otsego and Schoharie counties. Trainings are held every other year. Some of the classes, Crim said, will take place in Delaware County for the first time with the Sept. 21 start of a roughly 50-hour, 10-session training. Train-

ings cover “a broad spectrum of subjects applicable to home gardening,” ccedelaware.org says, including “plant nutrition, soils, vegetable and fruit culture, trees, shrubs and lawns, diseases and insects that affect plants, pruning and more.” “It runs Mondays through Thanksgiving and (each session) is a full-day commitment,” Crim said. “It’s $150, but you figure that’s for 10 classes, so it’s a pretty good deal and … it’s a really nicely curated series. Everyone comes out saying, ‘I learned so much.’ “It’s not something people should be intimidated by,” she said. “You just need a love of gardening, a willingness to help others and the time to give.” Crim said there are seven active Master Gardener volunteers in Delaware County, though she expects that number will “easily double in the 2020 training.” Following a training, Crim said, Master Gardeners must complete a designated number of volunteer hours during a two-year period. “It’s different in every county,” she said, “but (in Delaware, Otsego and Schoharie counties), it’s a minimum of 50 hours for a period of 12 months … and we’re very flexible in terms of giveback hours. We let (trainees) find their passion and then we do what we can to support them, but when you’re doing something you love, the time just flies by.” “To fulfill their volunteer time commitment,” the website says, “Master Gardeners have in the past worked in the office to test soil samples, maintained files of gardening information, answered gardening questions through our ‘Grow Line,’ taught gardening

Delhi resident Sheila Ayres, 65, said she, too, was drawn to the educational aspect of the program. Ayres, formerly of Virginia, is a retired nurse anesthetist. “It was like being back in college and I love learning,” she said. “You have to be open to learning and listening and getting involved. “(During the training), we went to a variety of different farms and gardens and the Clark greenhouses in Cooperstown. You learn a lot and get some of the best instructors — biologists, microbiologists — that talk about pests and organisms and soils, so it is just a wonderful program … and interest in it really has grown.” For Ayres, Master Gardener training also helped cultivate childhood habits. “As a Southerner, you’re always in the garden doing something and as a little girl, I always had a plot of flowers I would grow,” she said. “It’s just something I grew up with. In college and in grad school — everywhere I went, I’ve always done it. It’s always been an interest and a part of me and I always wanted to be a Master Gardener.” Ayres restarted the Delhi Beautification Committee

CONTRIBUTED

Master Gardener volunteers work at the Birdsong Farm Community Garden, located between Hamden and Delhi, in this undated photo.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

classes, organized and run the annual plant sales, spoken or demonstrated to groups and worked in the Education Center’s gardens.” Because of the time commitment, Crim said, Master Gardener trainings are well-suited to retirees. “It tends to be women because they’re natural nurturers, but there are some men,” she said. “And generally, it does attract retired people, because they’re the ones that have the knowledge base, the passion and the skills to share.” Bonnie Seegmiller, a retired psychologist and Hunter College professor living in the town of Colchester, said she became a Master Gardener after working with Crim and CCE in other avenues. “I have always liked learning about things and gardening and producing things,” she said. “I’ve been involved with CCE for years and going to workshops or calling them when I find something I can’t identify. Then Carla took over (as horticulture educator) and … I loved going to her presentations and working with her, because I’m always learning so much.” Seegmiller, who said she quickly surpassed the required number of volunteer hours, said she finds the philanthropical aspect of the program fulfilling. “It is a commitment and you have to be able to say, ‘Yes, I’m going to be here when I’m expected,’ like any other job or volunteer position … but there are all sorts of things that allow you to get the hours you need,” she said. “When the community garden was starting up, I’d get there early and work there for two to five hours. In addition to that, I worked with Carla to bring CCE on the road. I’d help set up different workshops for people in Colchester, because it can be hard for people to get other places. We had workshops … on growing succulents and making a hypertufa flowerpot.” Later this year, Seegmiller said, she and Crim will likely present a six-week “Seed to Soup” workshop to “help people learn to grow their own food successfully” and she plans to help Downsville Central School develop its new greenhouse.

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Master Gardener volunteers with CCE of Delaware County work on raised beds at St. James Church in Bovina in this undated photo.

CONTRIBUTED

and, through her membership on the Delaware County Historical Association board, also established a garden at the association’s Frisbee House, using historically appropriate seeds, plants and fencing. Ayres said she especially enjoys sharing what she’s learned through life and the program. “We’re a reference,” she said. “We get (people) from all over the county … and Master Gardeners help them through projects, guide them and answer questions. If we don’t know the answer, we’ll find the answer for them. We’re here to help.” “We’re the face of the program,” Seegmiller said. “We’re what the public sees, so we try to be knowledgeable and helpful and get along with other people. Everybody learns from everybody else. It’s hard work, but it more than pays off in knowledge and the people you work with. It’s a very nice experience and it helps with things you’re growing, but it’s sort of a whole package: knowledge and giving back to the community.” For more information or to enroll in the next Master Gardener training, contact Crim at ceh27@cornell.edu or 607-865-6531 or David Cox, CCE educator for Schoharie and Otsego counties, at 518-234-4303, ext. 119, or dgc23@cornell.edu.

MARCH 25, 26 AND 27, 2020

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Get ready: Early spring landscaping tips During the cold months of winter, many people stare longingly out of the window dreaming of spring and time spent outdoors. For those with green thumbs, images of tending to the garden and other aspects of their landscapes no doubt dominate such daydreams. Draw inspiration from those budding crocuses and daffodils pushing through the last remnants of snow and employ these tips to prepare for the upcoming gardening season. • One of the first steps is to apply a preemergent weed killer to get a head start knocking out weeds that can plague the lawn during the growing season. Killing weeds at the roots early on can mean far fewer hassles in spring and summer, and may prevent new generations of weeds from cropping up each year. • While it may be tempting to take a prematurely warm day as a sign that spring is in full force and purchase a bunch of annuals, it’s better to know the last of the possible frost dates (check “The Farmer’s Almanac”); otherwise, you may waste time and money planting flowers or vegetables only to have them zapped by another frosty day. • Amend the soil so that it is the right consistency – just crumbling when lifting it. Soil that is too muddy after spring thaw can harden, making it difficult for plants to flourish later on. Speak with representatives at a local lawn and gar-

den center about which types of amendments you can add to the soil in your particular area to enrich it. • Lawn and garden experts at The Home Depot suggest filling in bare patches of lawn now by mixing a few shovelfuls of soil with grass seed. Then apply this patch to the bare areas, water, and continue to care for the area until the spot fills in. • Spend a day in the garage or shed tending to the lawn mower and other gardening equipment. Clean all tools and ensure that everything works, repairing parts as needed. • Give outdoor entertaining spaces a good scrubbing, clearing away dirt and grime that may have accumulated over the winter. Use a leaf blower to blow away any leftover leaves. • Check if the front porch, railings or decking need painting and/or staining. Tackle these projects when the weather is cooler so everything will be ready for those peak spring days. • Think about any annuals you might want to plant in the landscape this year that will complement any existing shrubbery or perennials. Come up with a theme so that the entire yard is cohesive. Before homeowners know it, winter is gone and it is time to once again enjoy long days spent outdoors. Get a jump start on spring lawn prep as soon as you can.

sociation of Landscape Professionals says that most can recoup about $4,000 of their $6,000 average price tag. • Softscaping: Hardscaping refers to structures like outdoor kitchens or decks. Softscaping involves the living elements of the landscape. Hiring a landscape designer to install trees, shrubs, natural edging, and rock elements can do wonders toward improving the look and value of a home.

can be preferential. These include low-maintenance patio materials, composite decking, vinyl fencing, and inorganic mulched beds. • Fire pit: A fire pit can be used for much of the year. In the spring and

summer, the firepit is a great place to congregate to roast marshmallows or sip wine and gaze into the fire. In the fall, the fire pit can make for a cozy retreat. A fire pit that has a gas burner is low-maintenance, and the National As-

3 springtime home improvement projects Are you thinking about updating your home this spring? If so, these three projects are perfectly suited to the season. 1. Upgrade the landscaping. Spring is the perfect time to upgrade flower beds and walkways or even install a pool or hot tub. Your garden will have time to grow in and you’ll be able to enjoy your new outdoor space all summer long.

Did you know? When planning spring landscapes, homeowners should always group plants with similar water needs together. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, grouping plants with similar water needs together helps to conserve water, which can be an especially useful strategy if or when drought restrictions go into effect in summer. Homeowners also can embrace additional strategies to landscape with water conservation in mind. For example, aerating soil helps to improve water flow to plants’ roots and reduces water runoff, helping to ensure that plants get all of the water they need while reducing the likelihood that homeowners will have to use excessive amounts of water to keep plants healthy. In addition, using low-water-using types of grass can help homeowners who live in areas prone to drought conserve water while still maintaining lush, green lawns.

• Pool or water feature: In certain markets, particularly hot climates, a pool or another water feature is a musthave. However, in other areas where outdoor time is limited, a pool or water feature can actually lower the value of a home. Speaking with a real estate professional can give homeowners an idea of how a pool will fare in a given neighborhood. Outdoor improvements can improve the marketability of a home, as well as enhance its appearance and function.

2. Rebuild or refinish the deck. If your deck has seen better days, this is the ideal time to repair or rebuild it. Consider expanding it to create zones for eating, cooking and relaxing. 3. Replace the siding. If your siding took a beating over the winter, now’s the right time to replace it. Choose a quality product and consider using a more modern color. Cool tones like gray, blue and green have been popular in recent years. Spring is the best time of year to tackle most out door projects. Just be sure to get to them before the hotter weather arrives.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

xterior renovations can enhance the appearance of a property and make it more enjoyable for homeowners. Certain renovations have the potential to add value to a home, while others may do the opposite. Learning which one have the largest return on investment can help homeowners select features that will have the most positive impact. Curb appeal goes a long way toward attracting potential buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, first impressions of a property have a strong influence on buyers. Landscaping and external features can do much to influence such impressions. . • Lawn care program: Investing in a lawn care program that consists of fertilizer and weed control application and can be transferred over to a subsequent home owner is an attractive feature. NAR says such a care program can recover $1,000 in value of the $330 average cost, or a 303 percent ROI. • Low-maintenance lifestyle: When choosing materials for projects, those that offer low-maintenance benefits

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5 outdoor projects that add value

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

MARCH 25, 26 AND 27, 2020

The dangers of mowing too low

Best methods to repair damaged driveways A

sphalt and concrete driveways are common throughout suburban neighborhoods. They are as much a part of a home as lawns, decks and other exterior elements. Regardless of how they’re utilized, driveways need to be cared for and maintained to retain their appearance and function. Even the most durable driveways can suffer from cracks and pits over time. As cracks form, they pave the way for more deterioration if they are not addressed. Water infiltration can break down the integrity of the driveway during freeze and thaw periods, and any little hole or crack can promote weed growth. Driveway repair can be a do-it-yourself project, but pay attention to the details to ensure the job is done right.

Asphalt The home improvement resource The Family Handyman says it is key to first repair cracks and pits in an asphalt driveway before planning to topcoat it, which is generally done every year or so to maintain its appearance and durability. A variety of topcoat products are available at various price points. Experts recommend investing in a quality product that will not shrink and crack. A melt-in material that is similar to products used by highway crews can be purchased for around $100. This product also will require use of a propane torch. Caulk-style crack repair products may not require as many tools, and are much easier to apply. They may not last as long, however. Homeowners must weigh the pros and cons to each

Spring marks the return of many things. Trees and flowers begin to bloom again in spring, while warmer temperatures are welcomed back with open arms. Grass also begins to grow again in the spring. That means it’s not too long before homeowners have to dust off their lawn mowers and get to work. Those who don’t necessarily enjoy mowing the lawn may be tempted to cut their grass very low, as doing so can mean longer intervals between mowing sessions. However, mowing grass too low can have a very adverse effect on a lawn. • Cutting too low can injure the grass. Cutting grass too low can injure the grass, creating what’s essentially a domino effect of problems to come. Injured grass will focus on its recovery efforts, thereby making it vulnerable to other issues. • Cutting too low promotes weed growth. Injured grass is vulnerable to invaders, including weeds and insects. Weeds and insects can attack grass as it recovers from injury, and before homeowners know it, their lawns are overcome with a host of problems.

before beginning. The experts at Popular Mechanics say that there also are other asphalt patch mixes available at home supply retailers. Serious holes, rather than cracks, can be addressed with a coarse-aggregate filler commonly referred to as cold patch. After cracks and holes are filled, use a sealer to lock everything in place and create a smooth topcoat appearance. Speak with a store employee if you are unsure which product is needed for your application.

Concrete The process is similar with concrete driveways, yet the products differ. Small driveway cracks can be repaired by scrubbing out the crack to remove debris and then filling using a mortar repair compound, suggests the repair advice site Home Guides. Larger cracks and potholes should be cleaned. Once that’s done, apply a painted-in bonder to the crack or hole, followed by a dry concrete patching product mixed with water. The material can be worked into the damaged area with a trowel, and then leveled using a wood board. Afterward, a liquid concrete sealer can be applied to help prevent future cracks and holes. Homeowners who are hesitant to fix their driveways can contact masons or asphalt specialists to perform the job. Keeping up on driveway repair can prolong the life of the surface and help delay a complete driveway replacement for several years.

• Cutting too low allows crabgrass to thrive. Crabgrass needs ample sunlight to grow. By cutting grass too low, homeowners may unknowingly be promoting crabgrass growth. Crabgrass is unsightly and can rob surrounding grass of the moisture it needs to grow. So lawns cut too low may not only lose their lush appeal thanks to the unattractive appearance of crabgrass, but also because areas surrounding the crabgrass patches might turn brown due to lack of water. • Cutting too low can stress the grass. Cutting too low also makes lawns vulnerable to summer heat. Without blades tall enough to block some of the summer sun, grass can quickly succumb to summer heat, leading to dried out, discolored lawns.

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Home renovation projects are done for several different reasons, whether to update styles, repair damaged or broken items or to achieve more living space. More than ever before, homeowners are choosing improvement projects geared toward making their homes healthier. Establishing a healthy home means different things to different people. For example, to an environmentalist, a healthy home may incorporate eco-friendly or green products. To those with young children or mobility-impaired seniors, a healthy home may be one free from potential hazards. Others may view a healthy home as one that alleviates allergies. The World Health Organizations says inadequate housing conditions, such as poor ventilation, radon, urban pollution, and moisture issues, can contribute to many preventable diseases and injuries – especially respiratory problems, nervous system disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Furthermore, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ranks indoor air quality as a top five environmental risk to public health. EPA studies have found that indoor air pollution levels were roughly two to five times greater than outdoor pollution levels. People interested in making their homes healthier can embrace these renovations and lifestyle changes. • Be aware of furniture materials. Toxic PBDEs, which are chemicals used as flame retardants on furniture fabrics produced prior to 2006, can send toxins into the air. Some manufacturers may still use these flame retardants in new forms, but with similar risks. Before purchasing furniture, ask if a product is

treated, and select naturally fire-resistant materials like wool and cotton. • Lighten up. Lighting is often underappreciated but can have a dramatic impact on whether a home feels inviting, warm and/or uplifting. Experiment with different types of bulbs and lighting fixtures to turn drab and dreary environments into brighter places. Lighting may improve mood and productivity. • Let the sun shine in. Modify window treatments to let more sunlight into the house. There is evidence that the sun, particularly UV light, is a potent bactericide. The Sunlight Institute advises that there’s no harm in letting natural sunlight do its work, as bacteria within eight feet of low-intensity UV light can be killed in 10 minutes. • Inspect and service wood-burning appliances. A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory Cell and Molecular Biology has found regular inhalation of wood smoke limits immune activity and function, and anyone who burns wood indoors should be aware of these potential health risks. Ensuring proper ventilation of smoke and routinely cleaning the chimney can help cut down on particulate matter. • Turn to nontoxic cleaning products, pesticides and insecticides. Always opt for nontoxic, natural products when cleaning in and around the house. • Declutter the home. A cluttered, hectic space can affect emotions and mental state, never mind attracting dust and making a home harder to clean. Spending time in spaces that do not elicit stressful feelings is healthier and can help residents to rest and recharge. Making a home healthier can be on the list of this year’s renovation plans.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Use renovations to create healthier homes

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

MARCH 25, 26 AND 27, 2020

Essentials for a bathroom remodel W

hat began as a utilitarian space for personal sanitation has, in modern times, transformed into one of the most coveted rooms in the house. Bathrooms have become a place to relax and unwind, and new bathrooms are on the tops of many homeowners’ wishlists. Bathrooms can be as lavish as budgets allow. Wish lists can include everything from luxurious soaking tubs to rainfall showerheads to chaise lounges to televisions or home entertainment systems contained in the space. Those contemplating their own bathroom renovations may draw inspiration from the following features. • Hot water recirculation system: Few things can be as disappointing as desiring a hot bath or shower only to find that the hot water tank has been drained. The home remodeling company Normandy Remodeling says that water recirculation systems provide on-demand hot water. In such systems, hot water may continuously run through the pipes or there may be a pump underneath a sink. Either way, one needn’t wait for the water to warm up any longer. • Double undermount sinks: Bathroom time is at a premium, especially when people must prepare and leave the house together. Rather than jockeying for position around a single sink, dual sinks enable more breathing room and time efficiency. Undermount sinks are easy to clean because there is no lip around where the sink meets the vanity, preventing the accumulation of grime and gunk.

• Glass-free shower: Soap scum and water deposits can form on shower doors, even for homeowners who are diligent with cleaning. A sizable shower prevents water spray and affords the ability to forgo glass doors or curtains, thereby cutting down on cleaning and making the room feel more modern. • Multihead shower: When redoing the shower, account for various shower heads so that the water can

cascade across the body more completely. This provides a spa experience at home. • Touchless faucets and soap dispensers: These aren’t just for public bathrooms anymore. Touchless faucets and dispensers are more sanitary and convenient. • Separate toilet room: A shared bath almost necessitates this type of set-up. The toilet is housed inside its own small space and closed away

from the rest of the bathroom. It’s more private and convenient this way. • Heated flooring: You need not worry about stepping out of a warm shower onto a cold floor when heated flooring is part of the equation. This option is available in various flooring materials as well. Remodeling a bathroom boils down to certain coveted features that can really set a space apart.

• Recognize that routine lawn maintenance may not be enough. Even lawns that receive sufficient TLC can fall victim to crabgrass. A proactive, crabgrass-specific approach to lawn maintenance is the most effective way to control the problem before it pops up. • Apply a pre-emergent herbicide. Pre-emergent herbicides kill crabgrass seedlings as they germinate. While these herbicides are highly effective, they must be applied at precisely the right time. The right time to apply them depends on weather patterns. For example, Lowes notes that homeowners who live in regions that might have experienced warmer than usual winters will probably need to apply the herbicides earlier than usual. While the manufacturer instructions should always be followed when applying herbicides, it’s essential that homeowners take weather patterns into consideration as well. • Wait until the ground temperature rises above 60°F. Applying herbicides when the ground temperature is below 60°F might render the products ineffective. Gauging soil temperature can be tricky, but Lowes advises monitoring shrubs and trees on the property. Once shrubs begin to bloom and trees bud, herbicide can be applied.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

omeowners who enjoy tending to their lawns know that grass is vulnerable to a host of problems, many of which appear at a time of year when lawn enthusiasts want to showcase the fruits of their lawn-and-garden labors. Crabgrass is a common problem that appears in summer. According to Lowes, crabgrass plants produce thousands of seeds between midsummer and early fall. While the first frosts of late-fall or early winter kill the crabgrass plants, the seeds produced by the plants remain dormant throughout winter and then begin to grow as the ground temperature warms up with the spring and summer thaw. As a result, controlling germination, which is the development of a plant from a seed or spore after a period of dormancy, is the key to preventing crabgrass from becoming an unsightly blemish that can harm your lawn in summer. A proactive approach to crabgrass can save homeowners the headaches of dealing with this unwanted guest taking over their grass. The following tips, courtesy of Lowes, can help homeowners reduce the likelihood of their lawns being overcome by crabgrass as summer hits full swing.

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How to control crabgrass before it appears

• Wait when treating newly seeded lawns. Pre-emergent herbicides might kill new grass seedlings, so homeowners with newly seeded lawns should wait until they have mowed their lawns three times before applying a herbicide. • Emphasize uniform application. If a herbicide is not applied uniformly across the lawn, crabgrass can establish itself and ultimately spread to the rest of the lawn. • Do not thatch or aerate after applying a herbicide. Thatching or aerating a lawn after applying a herbicide might break the product’s chemical barrier, thereby rendering it ineffective. Crabgrass can quickly spread on an untreated lawn. A proactive approach that prevents its growth can keep lawns looking great through summer.

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Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Spring maintenance:

5 key things to inspect outside your home When spring arrives, it’s important to inspect the exterior of your home to make sure it hasn’t been damaged over the winter. Here are five key things you should check. 1. The roof. A visual inspection from the ground or a window will indicate if immediate repairs are needed. In particular, look out for curled, wavy or missing shingles. Also, check the ceilings inside your house for signs of water infiltration. 2. Gutters and spouts. Make sure they’re still firmly attached to the house and that nothing is blocking water from flowing through them. Remove any debris that’s accumulated over the winter. 3. Foundation. Examine the concrete for cracks or signs of water damage. Even the smallest fissure can cause big problems for your home. If you see any signs of degradation, schedule a repair as soon as possible. 4. Balcony or patio. Clean your deck thoroughly and secure any loose boards. Wood patios should be stained every one to three years. If it needs to be done this spring, sand the surface and apply your chosen stain. 5. Windows and doors. Check the caulking around each window and door, and replace it if necessary. Inspect wooden frames to make sure they don’t show signs of water infiltration or rot. If you notice any major damage during your inspection, be sure to make the needed repairs.

Spring cleaning: are you forgetting to tidy these parts of your home? To guarantee that this year’s spring cleaning is a success, target these often-neglected areas of your home. • Refrigerator. Remove everything from the fridge and throw out anything that’s past its expiration date. Take out shelves and drawers, scrub them using warm, soapy water and then replace them. Don’t use bleach or other strong cleaning products that shouldn’t come into contact with food. • Bedding. Wash your duvets, comforters and pillows in the washing machine using the gentle cycle. Run the rinse cycle twice to be sure all the soap is removed. If your machine isn’t big enough to fit a comforter or duvet, or you want to do it all at once, head to a local laundromat.

• Blinds. Dust vinyl, aluminum or wood blinds with a vacuum or a microfibre duster on both sides. If there’s a buildup of dirt, wash with a sponge and a solution of water and vinegar. Fabric shades can be vacuumed or brought to the dry cleaner. • Walls and ceilings. Remove cobwebs caught in the corners using a vacuum and wash the ceiling with an extendable sponge mop and slightly soapy water. Continue by cleaning the walls in the same way and giving the baseboards a good scrub. Once you’re done, make it a point to re-clean these areas every few months. This will ensure your home is tidier throughout the year and minimize the amount of work to be done next spring.

ing Survey conducted by Wakefield Research, 77 percent of households surveyed commit to spring clean projects every year. Dust is a formidable foe during spring cleaning projects. Dust is unsightly and dust mites can trigger allergic reactions. But many homeowners lament that, once they dust, dust returns in a

The cleaning service Maid to Shine Cleaners suggests that textiles trap more dust, particularly synthetic fabrics. Replacing items around the house with leather or wooden furniture may alleviate some of the dust problem.

Vacuuming carpets can release and resuspend dust and allergens that were trapped in carpeting and throw rugs, advises the Queensland University of Technology. Traditional vacuums may toss that dust into the air rather than remove it. However, vacuums with HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filters can catch particles at .3 microns in size or larger at an efficiency rating of 99.97 percent. Another solution is to switch to hard-surface flooring, which is less likely to trap dust.

Change the AC unit filter According to Kadi Dulude, owner of the New York-based Wizard of Homes cleaning service, HVAC filters are supposed to trap particles that flow through the air and the heating and cooling system. Inadequate or dirty filters cannot do that job as thoroughly as new filters. Check the filters in both window and whole-house AC or heating units and replace according to the recommended schedule. Consider filters with a higher

Use less cloth and linen

Take off shoes Dirt and debris from outside can contribute to dust in the house. Remove shoes when entering the house to reduce the accumulation of dust.

Keep pets brushed and groomed Pets bring many positive things to a home, but no matter how short their coats, pet dander can be part of the dust problem. Washing and grooming pets regularly may put a dent in the dust situation. In addition to these suggestions, getting a whole-house filtration system, increasing wet dusting and checking for leaky ducts that can be sucking dust from attics, basements or garages are some other ways to reduce dust in a home.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

pring is a season of rebirth and renewal. As trees and flowers bloom anew, many people get renewed vigor to tackle projects in and around the house. Spring cleaning projects can take on many forms, from garage overhauls to washing the interiors and exteriors of windows. According to the 2019 American Cleaning Institute National Clean-

Invest in a better vacuum cleaner

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MERV rating, which can catch smaller particles, suggests Ragsdale Heating, Air & Plumbing company.

Why is my house so dusty and what can I do?

flash. Dust may seem like a never-ending nuisance, but there are some ways to mitigate dust for more than just a few hours.

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Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

4 easy ways to revitalize your home for spring S

pring is the perfect time to refresh your home. Here are some easy ways to perk up any room in your house. 1. Add a bright rug. A cheerful print will infuse new life into the surrounding space. Just be sure that it’s large enough for all the furniture in the area to rest on it. 2. Change your linens. Curtains, bedding and towels can make a big difference in the look of a room. Swap out what you have now for bright prints and cheery colors. 3. Get some greenery. Plants are the perfect design accent. If you don’t have a green thumb, mimic the look with artificial flowers or plants. 4. Refresh your walls. A fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Whether you choose a fun new color or stick to neutrals, your home will feel brand new. Updating your home doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. If you’re on a budget, try simply rearranging your furniture or moving some of your decor around. The space will feel new and it won’t cost you a lot of money.

MARCH 25, 26 AND 27, 2020

to give homes a fresh look this spring

Spring is a season of rejuvenation, and that spirit of renewal can take hold inside a home. Warm weather and longer hours of daylight make spring a perfect time to imagine a home’s interior design in a new light. The following are a handful of decor ideas that may inspire homeowners to give their homes an entirely new look this spring. • Wallpaper: Wallpaper fell out of favor years ago, but new styles that aren’t so heavily patterned can make for wonderful additions to any room. Large-scale prints can give a room a whole new feel without giving homeowners or their guests the impression that they have stepped back in time. A simple, mural-style floral wallpaper on the walls surrounding a table in a breakfast nook can bring nature inside. • Pastel colors: Nothing embodies the spring quite like pastel colors. If colorful, bright flowers dot the garden in the backyard, homeowners can bring those uplifting pastels inside by painting an accent wall or even adding some brightly colored accent furniture to rooms that could use a lift.

• Declutter: Clutter is often conquered during spring cleaning sessions, but homeowners who want to create more free-flowing interior spaces can downsize their furniture and/or look for multipurpose features that make it hard for clutter to take over a room. Create more open space in entertaining areas by mounting the television and getting rid of a bulky entertainment center. Create even more space by replacing rarely used end tables with a storage ottoman where books and magazines can be stored to give a room a fresh, clean look. • Accent features: Sometimes the smallest changes to an interior space make the biggest impression. Replace dated accents like vases and table lamps with newer items that reflect the latest styles and trends. Such adjustments won’t break the bank, and they can give rooms a whole new feel. Spring is a great time to reconsider home interiors. This spring homeowners can embrace various strategies, both big and small, to give their homes a whole new feel.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

Decor ideas

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

MARCH 25, 26 AND 27, 2020

How to protect your yard from deer

Simple ways to prevent dog-related lawn damage D

ogs love spending time outdoors. Dog owners with yards know that dogs benefit greatly from some exercise in the backyard. While that time might be great for dogs, it can take its toll on lawns. Dog urine and feces can adversely affect the look and health of a lush green lawn. Nitrogen is essential to healthy soil, but only at certain levels. When those levels are exceeded, the result can be lawn damage. According to The Spruce Pets, an advisory site that offers practical tips and training advices to pet owners, this is what happens when pets frequently urinate on grass. Urine is naturally high in nitrogen, so when pets urinate on lawns, the grass might turn yellow or brown due to the excess nitrogen content. Nitrogen also is present in lawn fertilizers, further exacerbating the problem for pet owners who fertilize their lawns. In addition to urine damage, dogs can trample frosted grass, contributing to problems that may not become evident until spring, and get into areas like gardens where they wreak additional havoc. Pet owners who want to let their dogs run free in the yard but don’t want damaged grass may be tempted to put their pooches in diapers or confine them to crates when letting them outside. But such an approach isn’t necessary. In fact, some simple strategies can be highly effective at preventing dog-related lawn damage.

• Speak with a landscaper about planting new grass. Certain types of grass, such as Bermuda grass, can withstand dog damage better than others. Local climate will dictate which types of grass are likely to thrive in a given area, so speak with a professional landscaper about the viability of planting new grass. • Install fencing. Pet owners with expansive yards can install fencing that allows dogs to spend time exercising outdoors without granting them access to the entire property. Large dogs will need more room than small ones, but try to build fenced-in areas that allow dogs to run freely and get the exercise they need to stay healthy. • Work with a dog trainer. Dog trainers might be able to work with dogs so they only urinate in certain areas of the yard, greatly reducing the damage they can cause to a lawn. Trainers also might help curb digging and clawing behaviors that can damage lawns as well as gardens. • Consider hardscaping. Hardscaping might be most effective for pet owners with small properties. Hardscaping does not include grass and can add visual appeal to a property while saving pet owners the headaches of dealing with dog-related lawn damage. Dogs need time outdoors, and homeowners can take various steps to protect their lawns from dog-related damage.

With more than 60 different species of deer worldwide, there’s a good chance individuals will have some sort of interaction with these majestic animals at one point during their lifetimes. Deer, which live on all continents except Antarctica, can survive in everything from mountainous areas to wet rainforests to suburban neighborhoods. These herbivores are voracious eaters that will search far and wide for their meals. Home landscapes tend to be easy pickings for foraging deer. Many people are excited to see deer in their neighborhoods and yards because they can be such graceful creatures to behold. However, once deer start to munch on ornamental trees, annuals and flowering shrubs, the novelty of these animals may wear off. Furthermore, deer also can be covered in ticks that spread illnesses like Lyme disease. Here are some tips to keep deer at bay. • Avoid tasty morsels. Deer like English ivy, lettuces, impatiens, pansies, and hostas. Fruit trees also are targets. Choose other plants to grow, and wait until after early spring, when deer aren’t as concerned with regaining weight lost during the winter, to get them in the ground. • Use fishing line to deter deer. Put a few stakes in the ground and then run fishing line at a height of about three feet. Deer can sense movement but do not have keen vision. As the deer approach your garden, they’ll brush against the “invisible” fishing line and then get spooked off. • Plant plants that produce strong aromas. The experts at Good Housekeeping suggest planting lavender and marigolds, which emit strong aromas. Deer will be reluctant to walk through because the smell can interfere with their ability to find food and assess their environment via their sense of smell. • Stock up on soap. The tallow in soap helps keep deer away, according to the University of Vermont Extension Department of Plant and Soil Science. Scented soaps like Irish Spring may be especially good at warding off deer. • Plant in levels. Raised beds and sunken gardens can discourage deer from coming into the yard because they aren’t avid climbers, offers the home and garden resource This Old House. • Employ harmless scare tactics. Deer are skittish, and any unfamiliar movement or sound may scare them away. Cans hung from strings, sundials and lights can keep them at bay. Deer will seek out an easy meal, but homeowners can take steps to safeguard their trees, flowers and shrubs.

homeowners can expect to save after completing them. While each individual project may not result in jaw-dropping savings, homeowners who follow many of these recommendations may end up saving more than $1,000 per year.

Project: Install exterior low-e storm windows.

Project: Seal uncontrolled air leaks. What is it? Air leaks let cool air in during winter and warm air in during summer. Caulking, sealing and weather stripping all cracks and large openings can cut back on air leaks that are costing you money. The DOE recommends hiring a contractor to seal any leaks on heating and cooling ducts. How much can I save? Homeowners who seal uncontrolled air leaks can save between 10 and 20 percent on their annual heating and cooling bills.

What is it? If you plant a deciduous tree between six and eight feel tall near your home, it will begin to shade your windows within a year of being planted. Depending on the species of the tree and the home, the shade tree will begin shading the roof within five to 10 years. The DOE notes that shading is the most cost-effective way to reduce air conditioning costs. How much can I save? Properly planted shade trees can reduce air conditioning costs by anywhere from 15 to 50 percent.

Project: Insulate the water heater tank. What is it? New water tanks are likely already insulated. But homeowners with older hot water tanks can insulate their tanks with a water heater insulating blanket kit. How much can I save? Insulating a water heater tank can save homeowners as much as 16 percent on their annual water heating bills. Even the smallest DIY projects can produce big savings. More information about energy-saving home improvement projects can be found at www.energy.gov.

Tips for planting blueberries

best suits your local climate. • Plant where there is ample sun and well-drained soil. The roots of blueberry plants should remain moist throughout the growing season, so choose an area where the soil drains well. If that’s hard to find, consider planting in raised beds or patio containers. In addition, the University of Minnesota Extension notes that blueberries require full sun, so plant in a spot where the blueberries will not be denied daily sunlight.

trip to the produce aisle at a local grocery store can unveil a host of healthy additions to anyone’s diet. Such a jaunt also can raise eyebrows, as produce, particularly organic fruits and vegetables, can be very expensive. Consumers may feel helpless to corral the cost of healthy foods like fruits and vegetables, but all hope should not be lost. That’s especially so for people willing to give gardening a try. Blueberries are one of the healthiest foods people can eat. The USDA National Nutrient Database notes that blueberries, which are low in calories and high in fiber, are great sources of the vitamins C, K and B6. However, organic blueberries can be among the most expensive foods in the produce aisle. Various factors, including where blueberries come from and whether or not they’re organic, dictate their cost. But it’s not uncommon to pay roughly $4 for a six-ounce package of organic blueberries. For some, such costs are prohibitive. Growing blueberries in a home garden can save blueberry lovers substantial amounts of money while

ensuring they reap all of the benefits of this highly nutritious and edible berry. The following are some tips novices can employ as they plant their first batch of blueberries. • Consult a local garden center. The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council recommends consulting a local garden center before planting blueberries. The professionals at such centers can recommend the best variety of blueberry to plant. That’s an important first step, as the USHBC notes that farmers cultivate dozens of varieties of highbush blueberries across North America. Lowbush varieties also may be a gardener’s best option depending on where he or she lives. A local garden center can help you determine which variety

• Prepare the soil. Blueberries require acidic soil, so running a soil test prior to planting is a good idea. Speak with a local garden center about soil adjustments if the soil is unlikely to promote growth. • Fertilize carefully. The USHBC notes that established blueberry plants will respond well to acid fertilizers. However, it’s important not to overdo it, as blueberries are sensitive to overfertilization. Follow fertilization instructions and speak with local garden center professionals for advice. • Be patient. The UME notes that plants won’t bear much fruit in their first two to three years, and that harvests are bigger after five years. So patience is a virtue blueberry planters must embrace. Planting blueberries can be a rewarding hobby that also can save gardeners money at the grocery store.

Spring Home & Garden - THE DAILY STAR

What is it? Low-e windows reflect infrared heat back into a home. Such windows are coated with an ultra-thin layer of metal that improves the window’s insulation ability. How much can I save? Homeowners who install low-e windows can save between 12 and 33 percent on their annual heating and cooling costs.

Project: Plant shade trees.

MARCH 25, 26 AND 27, 2020

Home renovation projects can pay numerous dividends. Renovations can have a positive effect on resale value, make homes more livable for residents and, in some ways, make homes more affordable. Renovation projects that aim to conserve energy can save homeowners substantial amounts of money. Such projects don’t often require considerable effort or even sizable financial investments, which can make homeowners skeptical as to just how much they can save after completing the project. But the scale of a project may have little to do with how much homeowners will save. For example, the U.S. Department of Energy notes that a relatively effortless task like turning back a thermostat between 7° and 10° F for eight hours per day can save homeowners as much as $83 per year. A more labor-intensive task like planting shade trees saves homeowners an average of between $35 and $119 per year. When looking for ways to conserve energy around the house and save money, homeowners need not necessarily commit to expensive projects. The DOE notes that the following are some energy-saving projects and details what

DIY projects that can conserve energy around the house

SPRING 2020

COOPERSTOWN/TOU

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