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spring 2024 | complimentary

YOUR DREAM RETIREMENT

Finding a home at Taylor means more than access to a stunning new apartment – it means receiving the keys to present and future peace of mind.

Taylor Community is located in the beautiful Lakes Region of New Hampshire with campus locations in both Laconia and Wolfeboro. Whether you prefer an active lifestyle lled with tness classes and an extensive lineup of social and recreational opportunities, or would rather enjoy a ne dining experience with friends after a day spent by the lake... Taylor is the place for you!

By Thomas P. Caldwell

Planning For Your Spring Garden

around 40°F with low humidity, according to extension.unh. edu/agriculture-gardens/fruit-vegetable-crops.

The Extension warns that gardeners who save seeds from

their own gardens may have seeds that are the result of random pollination by insects or other natural agents, and therefore may not produce plants like the parent plants.

Asked how a customer can be sure whether purchased seeds are viable, Will said, “By and large, seed compa nies are going to do their best to circulate that stock and make sure that what they’re selling is viable, but there are some tests for seed viability.

“I think without getting too into specifics, one option that folks can do is take a sample of those seeds, and they could soak them in a bowl of water for maybe an hour, and then lay them out on a moist paper towel, and make sure that towel stays moist, and over the next couple of days, they should see those seeds start to swell and crack and send out a root. As long as they do that, then, if we’re at a decent percentage of germination, then we can consider those fairly

With longer-season crops, it is a good idea to ar range an early launch of the growing season by starting the plants indoors.

“An example of that would be a tomato plant,” Will said. “If we can get a nice vigor ous transplant going, that’ll help it get a jump-start on the season.

“Shorter-season, quick-growing crops like lettuce can either be started as a transplant or direct-seeded. Things with a really long root don’t like to be transplanted a lot of the time, so carrots would be an example of something that we would want to direct-seed. We wouldn’t want to try and trans

plant a carrot.”

Some plants, such as kale, will keep producing all season long, allowing the gardener to continue harvesting it throughout the summer and well into fall. Broccoli, on the other hand, will provide only one harvest.

“This is a reason why it’s good to read the seed

“Spring is also a good time to clean up our gardens or our planter containers,” Will continued. “We want to remove any old dead material or debris from last year, and this is important because that can harbor different pests or diseases.”

He said that means focusing on cleaning off what is on the surface, such as old tomato stems.

“Leftover roots in the soil are going to be okay the majority of the time. Those are just going to break down and contribute to your soil’s biodiversity, but tilling and hand-weeding and mulching are all good practices to keep on top of early-season weeds,” he said.

“If folks haven’t taken a soil test in several years, they may want to consider submitting one for testing,” Will noted. “You can reach out to your local Extension office and we would be happy to provide you with a sample form and guidelines. That’s going to tell you what nutrients your soil has in abundance and those that you should incorporate to provide proper plant nutrition throughout the growing season.”

It is a good idea to delay planting until the frost danger has passed, which usually means waiting until at least Memorial Day to plant the garden.

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“Memorial Day is a conservative estimate of the last frost date in Central New Hampshire,” Will said. “While this winter wasn’t too impressive, late-season frost can still kill or damage newly growing plants, so it’s good to wait until this danger is past before we put out any unprotected plants.”

Preparing plants that have been grown inside from seedlings for being transplanted in the garden requires some acclimation — called “hardening” —, according to Will.

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“Plants that are growing indoors in a controlled environment, especially under artificial light, are much more fragile than ones that have been grown outside,” he explained, “so we want to slowly introduce them into the real world. A good way to do this is to slowly increase their exposure to outside conditions.”

Start by placing them in a shady place on the porch for an hour or two, then bringing them back inside, he said.

“Then bring them outside, and then we’re slowly going to increase their exposure,” he continued. “So we’ll set them out for a few hours the next day, and slowly increase their exposure to the full sun, and get them used to being in the wind.”

“Most importantly,” Will said, “have fun with it and enjoy being outside.”

Those seeking more specific information can seek answers to their questions through Ask UNH Extension at 1-877-EXTGROW (1-877-398-4769) or answers@unh.edu, a free service that connects home gardeners with Master Gardener volunteers.

Overcome Seasonal Allergies With Simple Tricks

Seasonal allergies crop up at certain times each year, particularly in spring and fall. In 2021, approximately 81 million people in the United States were diagnosed with seasonal allergic rhinitis, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The Canadian Allergy, Asthma and Immunology Foundation says between 20 and 25 percent of Canadians suffer from allergic rhinitis.

Tree and grass pollen are notable contributors to allergies, as is mold. Verywell Health says allergies can be worse in certain areas. In the U.S., certain areas of the East Coast have high rates of allergies, while cities on the West Coast tend to be less harsh on those with allergies.

Since allergies can make life uncomfortable, people want to know all they can do to overcome seasonal allergies. These strategies can help.

• Know The Pollen Count. Information is key, and knowing when pollen or mold counts are particularly high can help people take certain steps to avoid allergic reactions.

• Close The Windows. When pollen levels are high, closing windows to prevent breezes that can bring pollen inside a home can be an effective strategy. You also can utilize a HEPA filter on the home’s air conditioning system.

• Remove Clothes Worn Outdoors. Shower to rinse pollen off of skin and hair. Hanging clothing to line dry during high

pollen counts can cause pollen to stick to freshly laundered items.

• Avoid Gardening Or Other Outdoor Activities When Pollen Is High. If you must be outdoors, wear a mask.

• Try An Antihistamine Product that will reduce your body’s reaction to the seasonal allergen. WebMD says butterbar as well as a plant-based Phleum pratense could be natural alternative antihistamine products.

• Use A Nasal Rinse to clean allergens out of your nose. This can help ease congestion and itching. Select sterile saline solutions or carefully follow directions for preparing rinses in neti pots.

• Corticosteroid Nasal Sprays can improve nasal symptoms. Speak with a doctor about how to use these products and how long to use them.

• Consider Allergy Shots, also known as allergen immunotherapy. These shots can help desensitize the body to common allergies by using very small amounts of allergens over time. The immune system will eventually produce a reduced reaction to the allergen.

Allergies can be troublesome. However, various strategies can help to diminish the often unpleasant effects of seasonal allergies.~ Metro

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Tips To Make A Yard Less Attractive To Ticks

Backyards are ideal places to spend warm afternoons soaking up some sun. Lazy days in the yard are a big part of what makes warm weather seasons like spring and summer so appealing. But those afternoons can quickly go off the rails when an unwelcome visitor makes its presence known.

Ticks can be found throughout the world, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that only a select few types of ticks transmit bacteria, viruses, and parasites, or pathogens, that cause diseases in people. But even if the number of tick species that transmit diseases to humans is relatively low, ticks that can infect humans are a notable threat. Such ticks carry pathogens that the CDC notes can cause a number of diseases, including Bourbon virus, Ehrlichiosis, and Lyme disease, among others.

Human beings can come into contact with ticks in their own backyards. But humans can take various steps to make their lawns less welcoming to ticks.

• Cut Your Grass Short And Keep It That Way. Blacklegged ticks are transmitters of Lyme disease, which the CDC notes is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. Lyme disease also poses a growing threat in Canada, where data from the Public Health Agency indicates humanreported Lyme disease cases increased from 144 in 2009 to more than 2,100 in 2022. Black-legged ticks do not like environments that are dry and hot, so short grass makes lawns less attractive to this type of tick. Consumer Reports advises home-

owners who have let their grass grow a little too high (around five or six inches) to bag their clippings when cutting the grass. Lots of clippings on the grass can provide a respite from the heat for black-legged ticks.

• Create A Tick Barrier If Your Property Abuts Woods. Woods provide a cover from the summer heat that black-legged ticks crave. So properties that abut the woods may be more vulnerable to these unwanted guests than yards that do not border woodlands. A barrier of dry mulch made of wood chips between a property and a bordering wooded area can help repel ticks, who won’t want to settle in often dry, hot mulch beds.

• Plant With Infestation Prevention In Mind. Some plants can help to repel ticks because they boast certain characteristics that ticks cannot tolerate. The fragrances, textures, and oils of plants like garlic, mint, lavender, marigolds, and others create less welcoming conditions for ticks. Homeowners can speak with local garden centers for advice on tick-repellant plants that can thrive in their particular climate and on their properties.

• Remove Yard Debris. Piles of wood, leaves, and brush can make for good conditions for ticks that transmit disease. After raking leaves and gathering brush, discard the resulting piles immediately.

These measures will not necessarily prevent all ticks from establishing themselves on a property, so individuals are urged to inspect their bodies and the bodies of their pets after a day in the yard. ~ Metro

Springtime Real Estate Roundup

It’s the time of year when homeowners are polishing up their homes and anticipating putting their property on the market. Whether selling to downsize or to move on to something bigger, we all want a read on the upcoming summertime real estate market. Where is real estate headed and where has it been over the just-ended winter season?

Says Frank Roche, president of Roche Realty Group, with offices in Meredith and Laconia, “The market has been steady in terms of value. However, the number of transactions has fallen considerably for the past 18 months. I believe values have held steady due to a lack of inventory, and likewise, this has constrained the number of transactions. The environment of

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

lowering interest rates will potentially help bring more inventory to the market, as sellers have been reluctant to sell due to the prospect of trading a low-interest mortgage for a higher one. We have been seeing some price reductions and longer days on the market for a number of listings.”

Every season is different when it comes to home building and sales, and the previous winter was no different. Overall, Frank (who was joined in this interview by Roche Realty Group agent Randy Miller) has seen some changes and explains, “We seem to have returned to a more seasonal-driven sales environment. This was largely interrupted by the Covid surge on the back of historically low interest rates for the prior several winters.

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Increasing rates have slowed sales for sure, but low inventory and potential buyer fatigue have also contributed. The upcoming spring selling season should be a clearer gauge as to how the rest of the year might look overall. During the winter months, properties that were priced right to the market were acquired in a reasonable period of time because they were competing with minimal inventory on the market.”

Bronwen Donnelly, principal broker at Meredith Landing Real Estate, speaks of the length of time property is for sale: “We are seeing property sit a bit longer on the market and price adjustments are happening more frequently than in recent years. There are more negotiations taking place between sellers and buyers.”

The Lakes Region is a tourism-driven market, and that affects real estate as well. Bronwen adds, “Close proximity to recreation is still very important to buyers. Access to area ski resorts is in high demand, as well as convenience to shops, restaurants, medical, and highway access. Many buyers are looking for privacy with convenience. Residential areas are highly soughtafter because they tend to offer the best of both worlds: less busy, but with easy access to amenities.”

Construction has boomed in the area during and following Covid, and many wonder why so many new homes and condominiums are springing up. Explains Frank, “During the last couple of years, there were a good number of new condominium developments started, such as Lakeside at Paugus Bay, Brook Hill, Highland Ridge, Lookout Lake Winnipesaukee, and The Gardens at The Weirs. This influx of newly constructed condominiums cannot compare to the huge surge of condominium development that we experienced in the 1980s.

“Most of our condominium sales involve resale product because there’s so many developments scattered throughout the region to choose from. However, inventories are extremely low. The cost of commercial money for new projects and finding good available land with water and sewer is difficult. The same thing goes for single-family residential construction. Construction and land costs are high and it forces builders and developers to command a higher price point, which is not solving our affordability problem here in the Lakes Region.”

Due to the lack of available homes and increased desire to live in the Lakes Region, building has increased. Says Bronwen, “We need housing, and condos offer a great opportunity for buyers looking to move into the area at (often times) a more affordable option. Condos are appealing to the buyers looking to downsize, reduce overall property maintenance, and enjoy carefree Lakes Region living, all of which caters to a high number of our buyer demographics. Condos also offer investors an opportunity to own and rent out their units.”

Demographically, many out-of-staters desire to live full- or part-time in the area, and they are coming from Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. Bronwen adds, “We are seeing many buyers relocating from the southern part of the state up to this area as well.”

What of the summer 2024 market? Says Frank, “My gut feeling is we’ll see similarities to 2023, with a continued shortage of available property for sale. Keep in mind we’ve had a substantial run-up in property values over the last several years, which is not sustainable, in my opinion. There is also a concerted effort by many affordable-housing advocates to find innovative ways to create more affordable housing units. This will be a very interesting year; we have a major election year,

FLOORING AND TILE

we’re involved in a couple of wars, and the Federal Reserve is trying to assess if it has curbed inflation. The short answer is, I believe demand will remain strong, but inventory could affect transactions.

“As I’ve mentioned several times, things seem slow, but demand is still high. I will say that buyers willing to pay over asking have dwindled. While I feel we are still in a seller’s market, properties that have been sitting for longer than 30 days are generally overpriced or have serious defects. But reasonably priced homes and land are still going under contract in under 30 days for the most part. As of 2/21/2024, there are only 952 single-family homes and 218 condominiums for sale in the entire state of New Hampshire. In the Lakes Region, including 25 towns and cities, there are 175 single homes for sale and 55 condos for sale. Last year in Belknap County, the median sales price for a single-family home was $447,500. In Carroll County, the median sales price for a single-family home was $465,000. The highest selling price in the state of New Hampshire was on Lake Winnipesaukee, at Spindle Point in Meredith, for $14 million. We’ve definitely seen a major acceleration in waterfront property sales prices over the last three years.”

Bronwen says, “I think inventory will continue to be an obstacle and that will keep the property values at the higher end. I feel we will have a strong, healthy market coming into the summer and that buyers will be prepared to move forward as housing becomes available.”

The most popular homes that buyers are seeking, according to Bronwen, are waterfront and water-access homes, which continue to be in high demand. Homes that offer first-floor living are very attractive to many buyers, as are homes that offer energy efficiency.

Along with residential properties, commercial is also becoming highly desirable. Take a drive around the Lakes Region and you will see new building taking place, along with existing properties for sale.

Explains Frank, “As of 2/21/2024, there are over 65 commercial properties for sale in the 25 towns and cities that make up the Lakes Region. During the last couple of years, Roche Realty Group experienced some record commercial sales. For example, we listed and sold the former Anchorage Resort on Lake Winnisquam, which included 34 acres with 3,300 feet of pristine shorefront. The developer is building a luxury 5-star resort with 114 rooms, three restaurants, a highend spa, a wedding venue, and 30-plus boat slips. We listed and sold the former Laconia Clinic and Caring for Women, we listed and sold Trustworthy Hardware, we listed and sold the Alpine Rose Retail Center in Weirs Beach, an inland marina, the former B. Mae Denny’s, a number of storage buildings, a golf course, and numerous other properties. There are a number of new restaurants opening in the region, several new gas stations, convenience stores, car dealerships, marina expansions, storage buildings, and new retail stores opening. The residential expansion of the region calls for new commercial development, which has occurred, even though interest rates have increased quite a bit for commercial lending.”

It would seem the post-Covid busy real estate market will continue in the Lakes Region. Says Bronwen, “I do not see things slowing down. We live in a very desirable area that buyers are drawn to. We are still battling with low inventory creating a higher demand to make a move.”

Hot Tubs

Fresh Recipes Fresh Recipes

To Welcome Spring Into Your Kitchen

Hello, local friends. I am hoping all of you have had a safe and fun winter season. Regardless of how much someone loves the winter season, everyone is ready for the sunshine and those 80-plus-degree days. Springtime means something else as well: It’s time to put all those cold-weather comfort foods away until next winter and bust out some more warm-weather-friendly recipes.

Almost all today’s recipes include some great fresh ingredients that will liven up any menu. That being said, I also have a couple here that lean toward comfort food, including the first recipe, a breakfast quick bread.

Cranberries are the main character, but feel free to use most any berry. I have always loved the tartness of the cranberry combined with the sweetness of a great bread, though. This also has a great brown sugar crumble on the top, which makes for a very scrumptious combo. Once cooked and sliced, I love to lather up both sides of the slice with butter, and grilling them is so darn good! Plan on 15 minutes to prep and barely an hour to cook. This makes a single loaf, but I love making four at a time and freezing a couple of them for down the road.

Cranberry Orange Bread with Brown Sugar Crumble

For the Bread

2 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1½ tsp baking powder

½ tsp baking soda

1 tsp salt

1 egg, well beaten

¾ cup fresh squeezed orange juice

2 tbsp vegetable oil

1 tbsp orange zest

1½ cups cranberries, coarsely chopped

½ cup walnuts, chopped

For the Brown Sugar Crumble

1/3 cup packed brown sugar

¼ cup all-purpose flour

2 tbsp chilled unsalted butter, diced

½ tsp ground cinnamon

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and grease a 9×5-inch loaf

pan. For the bread, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar,

baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. In a separate bowl, blend the beaten egg, orange juice, vegetable oil, and orange zest. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fold in the cranberries and walnuts. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.

For the crumble, mix brown sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon in a bowl until it resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the batter in the loaf pan. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before digging in.

Who’s ready for a fabulous salad? This one was a huge favorite of the clientele during the spring and summer seasons during my many years of running restaurant kitchens. It has a few great components to it that are to be made in advance, such as pickled red onions and a yummy dill ranch dressing. As for the rest of the goodies, this uses little gem lettuce with avocado, radishes, cucumber, pepitas, and sunflower sprouts. For those not familiar, little gem lettuce are tiny heads, usually under four inches in length when fully grown. They are a cross between romaine and butterhead lettuce and are slightly sweet, with an incredible crunch. It’s the perfect salad lettuce and, although not always findable in your local supermarket, when it is, grab for any salad. It’ll be worth your while. When I can’t find it, I usually buy romaine, but there are many great options to sub it with. The pickled onions as well as the ranch only takes minutes to prep and do, so a day or two in advance if you care to and the rest of the salad takes 20 minutes or so to prep when you want

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to make them. This will get you four salads.

Little Gem Salad with Pickled Onions and Homemade Dilly Ranch Dressing

3-4 heads of little gem lettuce, leaves separated, washed, or sub 2 romaine hearts, torn

1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced

½ cup radishes, thinly sliced, watermelon radishes are great here if available

2 avocados, cut into chunks

1 cup sunflower sprouts or microgreens

¼- ½ cup pickled red onions, recipe below

¼ cup pumpkin or sunflower seeds

1 tbsp fresh tarragon leaves, optional

Optional additions are thinly shaved fennel, thinly sliced salad turnips, matchstick carrots, grape or cherry tomatoes, blanched green beans

For The Pickled Onions…. Makes 1 cup

1 cup red onion, very thinly sliced

½ cup white vinegar

½ cup water

¾ tsp salt

2 tbsp sugar

1 tsp whole peppercorns

Optional additions: Garlic cloves, cut in half

Bay leaves

Fresh or dried herbs, such as oregano, cilantro, scallions, curry leaves, dill

Jalapeno slices

For The Dilly Ranch Dressing

1/3 cup mayo

1/3 cup buttermilk

1/3 cup sour cream

2 garlic cloves, finely minced

½ cup fresh dill, chopped

2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

½ tsp salt

1 tsp fresh cracked peppercorns

1 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice

1 tsp white or apple cider vinegar

Let’s start with the pickled onions. Thinly slice the red onion to fill 1 cup. Place the vinegar, water, salt, sugar, and whole peppercorns in a small pot on the stove and bring to a simmer. Add the onions, and simmer for 45-60 seconds, stirring. Turn off the heat. Stir in any of the optional additions above you may want to add. Let this cool completely at room temp, then place in a clean jar and store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks. I make this by the quart, as these onions are crazy good on burgers and sandwiches as well.

Next, make the dressing by whisking the mayo, buttermilk, and sour cream in a bowl until smooth, then stir in the remaining ingredients and place in the fridge as you want this cold at service time.

For the actual salad, separate the little gem lettuce leaves. Tear any extra-large ones in half but leave any smaller ones whole. Wash and spin dry or pat dry. Place the lettuce leaves in a big bowl and add the remaining ingredients. At this point, you could refrigerate until serving, although if doing so, cut and add the avocados at the last minute to retain their greenness. Right before serving, toss with a little cold dressing, a little at

a time, as you will not need all of it. Add just enough to coat each leaf generously. Taste it and season the salad with a little salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to taste. You want the salad to taste “punchy” to balance out all those fresh herbs.

Next, I have a great appetizer that has a great spring flare to it. It’s an asparagus tart with a flaky puff pastry crust with cream cheese innards and topped with Gruyere cheese and fresh tarragon and chives. This has an upscale elegance about it which is why I served it as an app in a few upscale restaurants back in the day. This goes together very quickly with minimal effort and has a “pinkies out” feel to it. This can be prepped and cooked in less than an hour and gets you 6-8 pieces of goodness.

Asparagus Tart

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed 8 oz cream cheese, room temp 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped fine 1 ½ tbsp fresh French tarragon 3-4 oz gruyere cheese, grated 1 tsp lemon zest, about one medium lemon worth 1 tsp Dijon mustard

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¼ tsp sea salt

¼ tsp ground black pepper

1 bunch asparagus, pencil-sized 1 egg yolk and 1-2 tbsp water for the egg wash

Thaw puff pastry overnight under refrigeration or according to directions on the package. Set oven to 400 degrees. On a piece of parchment, roll puff pastry out to ¼-inch thickness, approximately 11x13 or 12x12. Transfer parchment with pastry to a standard baking pan. Prick the dough with a fork. Score the crust by slicing ½ way through about ¾ inch from the edge all around it. This will allow the crust to rise.  Brush the top with the egg wash for golden color. Bake the crust at 400 degrees for 18 minutes or until it looks puffed and starts to brown. Cool. Generously brush egg wash on 1 inch of the edge of the baked pastry.

For the filling, in a bowl, mix together cream cheese, Dijon, lemon zest, chives, tarragon, salt, and pepper. Spread evenly over the cooled pastry crust with a metal spatula within the border of the outer crust. Sprinkle gruyere over cream cheese mixture. Cut asparagus spears to fit on your tart, toss with a little olive oil, and arrange on top of tart. Bake on the middle rack of the oven for 15-20 minutes. Cool for 20 minutes before slicing.

As for some main-course springtime options, I have three of them and, although they all scream nice weather, they couldn’t be more different. First off, I have a chicken dish that is a twist on the famous Caprese Salad. If you’re not aware, the salad is sliced beefsteak tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, fresh basil on a bed of lettuce, finished with a balsamic glaze. Simple, but such a clean-tasting salad. This dish combines those main ingredients into a stuffed chicken gem. You prep the chicken breast by butterflying it and stuffing it with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, then pan-searing both sides and finishing in the oven with balsamic vinegar and a couple of other key ingredients. This is delectable as well as a fairly healthy dish. This is a great chicken entrée that can be finished in 35-40 minutes, and it serves four.

Caprese Stuffed Chicken

4 boneless chicken breasts, 6-8 oz per breast

2 tomatoes, thinly sliced

8-12 slices fresh mozzarella cheese depending on the width of the mozzarella balls you are slicing

1 cup fresh basil leaves, divided into 4 portions

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp salt

2 tbsp olive oil

½ cup balsamic vinegar

1 tbsp brown sugar

4 cloves garlic, minced

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Slice each chicken breast about ¾ quarter of the way through, starting on the thickest side, being careful not to cut them all the way through. Place 2 slices of tomato, 2-3 slices of mozzarella cheese, and ¼ cup of basil into

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each chicken breast pocket. Place 4 toothpicks into the open side of the chicken diagonally to keep the filling from falling out. Sprinkle each chicken breast with salt, basil, and oregano on both sides. Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a non-stick or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and pan sear for 2 minutes on each side, being careful when flipping to not lose the stuffing. After pan-searing, place each chicken breast in a 9x13 casserole dish, although if using a cast-iron pan, you can place it directly in the oven. Mix the garlic, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl and pour the mixture over the top of the chicken. Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. Place the pieces of chicken on a platter or individual dishes and drizzle with balsamic juice from the pan. Remove toothpicks prior to serving and serve with your favorite side dishes.

It’s time for a very light pasta dish. I’m a big fan of any Carbonara pasta dish, although admittedly, those two ingredients, pasta and a Carbonara sauce, don’t usually scream healthy, but believe it or not, this dish is chock full of goodness. Although it is a Carbonara dish, it is not in the stereotypical way as this has no heavy cream, butter, and minimal olive oil, but it does have some amazing flavors, such as lemon, asparagus, fresh peas, mushrooms and herbs, and then finished with creamy burrata cheese. The pasta I use is orecchiette, which is a small ear-shaped pasta that is great for absorbing the sauce. You can obviously use whatever pasta you prefer, or interchange some of the other ingredients, but giving this a test drive as it is before tinkering would be my suggestion. Prep time is 20 minutes, as is the cooking time, and this will feed six or more.

Spring Orecchiette Pasta with Burrata, Fresh Peas & Asparagus

For the Pasta, Snow Peas and Asparagus

16 oz Orecchiette pasta

4 qts of water

2 tbsp salt

2 cups frozen peas

2 cups snow peas or sugar peas

1 cup asparagus tips

For The Rest

1 tbsp olive oil

1 onion, diced

4 garlic cloves, rough chopped

10–12 oz cremini, shiitake, buttons, or morels mushrooms, sliced or quartered

2 cups wilting greens, such as dandelion, arugula, chard, spinach, chopped

Generous pinch salt

Fresh cracked pepper

2 eggs, whisked

½ cup parmesan or pecorino

1 ball burrata cheese

Lemon zest from one small lemon

¼ – ½ cup fresh chopped herbs, such as mint, basil, dill, or Italian parsley or a blend.

Bring a large pot with 4 quarts water and 2 tbsp salt to a boil. When water comes to a boil, add pasta, and cook to al dente, about 7 minutes or see directions on package. During the last minute of cooking the pasta, add the fresh peas, sugar peas, and asparagus tips to the boiling pasta and quickly blanch for one

minute. Drain the pasta and veggies, reserving 1-2 cups hot pasta water. Do not rinse the pasta/veggies. Return to the pot and set aside.

While the pasta is cooking, in a skillet, heat 1 tbsp oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion until tender and fragrant, 3-4 minutes. Add the mushrooms and garlic and sauté until golden and tender, 7-8 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Add greens and sauté, stirring often until just wilted. Set pan aside. Whisk two eggs in a small bowl, set aside. To temper the eggs, gradually whisk in 3 tbsp of the reserved hot pasta water, one tbsp at a time into the eggs, to warm them up gently so they don’t curdle. Stir well.

Pour the tempered eggs over the pasta and, with a big wooden spoon, gently stir to coat the pasta. Stir in the mushroom mixture, half of the lemon zest, and half of the fresh herbs, cracked pepper, and parmesan, adding more hot pasta water as needed to loosen the pasta and make it “saucy”. You don’t want this dry. I usually add a cup or more. Taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking and place on a platter or bowl and sprinkle with remaining herbs and lemon zest. Dot with dollops of burrata cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy. This is an awesome twist on a fun pasta dish.

Lastly, before we get into some sweets, let’s introduce a recipe including America’s best-selling fish combined with a great seasonal vegetable, rhubarb. The fish is salmon and, when combined with the tartness of rhubarb, as well as a few other unique ingredients, the result is something out of this world. Although rhubarb season is relatively short, it’s one of my favorite seasonal veggies, despite the fact that it works more like a fruit in most recipes. When rhubarb season is upon us, I hoard that

stuff like a squirrel does with acorns. I love making jams, pies, and other goodies with rhubarb, but using it in this salmon dish is as scrumptious as it is unique. This is cooked with wilted chard with garlic, lemon, and maple syrup. The flavors are very bright and fresh and can be done in a half-hour or so. This recipe is for two of you, so adjust accordingly if feeding more.

Baked Salmon with Rhubarb

2 shallots, or sub ½ a red onion

2 stalks rhubarb, 12 inches long each

2 tbsp olive oil

2 center cut salmon filets, 6 oz each, skinless, the thicker, all the better

3-4 tbsp maple syrup

2 tbsp sherry cooking wine, or sub 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, but better with the sherry

Salt and pepper to taste

8 sprigs fresh thyme

1 bunch chard, leaves chopped, stems chopped thinly and separated

1 tbsp olive oil

4 fat garlic cloves, rough chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tsp lemon zest

Juice of 1 lemon

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Slice shallots into thin wedges, long ways. Cut rhubarb in half lengthwise and then cut into

4-inch pieces. In a large ovenproof skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Sauté shallot for 3-4 minutes, until just tender and fragrant. Add rhubarb, sauting for one minute. Push shallots and rhubarb to the outer edges of the pan and place salmon in the center. Season salmon and rhubarb with a little salt and pepper. Drizzle maple syrup just over rhubarb. Drizzle sherry wine, or balsamic, over the rhubarb. Sprinkle with ½ of the thyme leaves, saving ½ for garnish at the end. Place in the oven and roast for 15 minutes. Check salmon after 10 and pull if ready but continue cooking rhubarb for full 15 mins or when it is fork-tender.

While the salmon is in the oven, in another skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until golden, about 2 minutes. Add chard stems, sauté for 1-2 minutes, then add remaining chard and season with salt, pepper, lemon zest, and a little squeeze of lemon. Set it aside. Plate the salmon and divide rhubarb shallot mixture among the two plates. Add the wilted chard. Spoon the flavorful liquid from the salmon pan over the salmon itself. Garnish with remaining sprigs of thyme. Enjoy!

Now it’s time to get our sweet tooth on. The first recipe is more of a casual snack or dessert, while the second one is more

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of a legitimate lunch or dinner dessert. We are talking about a dessert bar, which is arguably my all-time favorite type of sweet. This one is all about a raspberry filling with an awesome oatmeal crumble topping. This will get you a dozen bars and will take you 45 minutes from start to finish, although you will need these to sit for a while before digging in. This is a cakewalk to put together.

Raspberry Oatmeal Crumble Bars

1 ½ sticks unsalted butter, softened

½ cup brown sugar, packed

½ cup granulated sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 ½ cups rolled oats, NOT instant or quick cook oats

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ tsp salt

½ tsp baking powder

1 jar raspberry jam, 18 oz

Preheat oven to 350 degrees and grease an 8-inch-square baking dish with nonstick spray. Set it aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and the 2 sugars with an electric mixer until smooth. Add vanilla extract, oats, flour, salt, and baking powder, and stir to combine. Press ¾ of the oat mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan. Spread jam over the top in an even layer. Crumble the remaining oat mixture over the top. Bake until lightly golden brown on top, 30-40 minutes. Let cool completely, about 2 hours, before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

This next one is a simple “from-scratch” dessert cake with a fabulous vanilla almond glaze, scattered with fresh berries. It truly is the perfect springtime dessert cake, plus it’s another very

simple dessert to toss together. Plan

Mega Berry Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour

1½ cup granulated sugar

½ cup salted butter, cold, and cut into small cubes

1 tsp baking powder

½ tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 tsp almond extract

3 egg whites

1 cup milk

2 cups fresh mixed berries, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries would all taste amazing

For The Almond Icing

1 cup powdered sugar

½ tsp vanilla

½ tsp almond extract

2-3 tbsp hot water

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and spray the inside of a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and set it aside. For the batter, in a large mixing bowl, combine and stir the flour and sugar until mixed. Next, add in the cold, cubed butter and mix quickly to incorporate so that the mixture looks crumbly. Using a measuring cup, remove ¾ cup of the crumble mixture

and set it aside for later use. After that, in the large bowl with the remaining crumble mixture, add the baking powder, salt, vanilla, almond extract, milk, and egg whites. Mix for 3-4 minutes on medium-high speed until well blended. Proceed to pour the cake batter into the prepared baking dish. Then, sprinkle the berries over the top of the cake batter and distribute the reserved crumble mixture over the top of the entire cake. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown. Allow the cake to cool before adding the icing.

In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla, almond extract, and hot water, and stir until smooth and lump-free. Continue to drizzle the icing over the top of the cake and let cool until it is set. Slice and serve with extra berries and maybe some whipped cream.

I hope you all have a great spring season and may that lead you all into an incredible summer season in our gorgeous Lakes Region. I hope you enjoy some of these recipes. If anyone cares to touch base with any questions or feedback, please reach out at fenwaysox10@gmail.com.

Smart homeowners around the world have scrapped their old furnaces and air conditioners and replaced them with a WaterFurnace geothermal comfort system That’s because geothermal comfort systems use the free, renewable energy found in your own backyard to save up to 70% on heating, cooling and hot water. You won’t need that old inefficient furnace or that unsightly outdoor air conditioner because a WaterFurnace system provides complete comfort for your home with a single unit And because the system doesn’t burn fossil fuels, there are no fumes or carbon monoxide concerns. Make the smart switch to geothermal Contact your local WaterFurnace dealer today to learn more

By Joan Coskie

Grace Your Garden With Spring Splendor

Oh, lovely Spring! And how much more beautiful for the gifts from faraway lands. Take the tulip, for example. Even its name is a clue to where they originated: Central Asia, cultivated by the Turks as early as 1,000 A.D. Then along came a Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. Their beauty enthralled him so much that they were propagated for his pleasure, and the name came from the Turkish and Persian words for turban.

Doubtless, as the spice, opium, and silks made their way into Europe, some enterprising merchant anxious to please a wom-

an who waited long and lonely months for his return brought some of the bulbs back to please her. However, they weren’t celebrated in Europe until the 16th century. Carolus Clusius, a botanist in Leiden, Holland, had made a friend of the ambassador of Constantinople, one Ogier Ghislain de Busbecq, who sent a few bulbs for his garden. How were they to know they “sowed the seeds” of the Tulip Wars? Tulip bulbs became a trading commodity, creating the first recorded speculative bubble in history. Profits of 400 percent were possible by enterpris-

ing merchants. By the 1630s, highly-prized varieties of tulips cost as much as a mansion on the Amsterdam Grand Canal. Ah, but it was brief opulence for, in just three years — from 1634 to 1637 —, tulip prices plummeted.

But enough about economics; let’s talk tulips. Just 75 species, but what variety! Everyone is familiar with the cup-shaped, smooth-textured petals and monotone colors of lots of tulips. But man has never been one to miss the opportunity to take advantage of unusual developments. Enter the lowly louse. Yes, a louse living on peaches and potatoes is responsible for the frilly petals and flashy lightning-bolt markings of many new varieties. (And you thought louses meant “good for nothing!”). The louse carried something called a mosaic virus which resulted in an infection, which, in turn, resulted in an almost limitless diversity of color combinations and types of petals. Streaks of yellow on a red tulip, blotches of white on a purple one, petals so frilly that you mistake the blossom for a chrysanthemum, or a double blossom so rich with petals that it resembles a rose.

While tulips blossoms flourish for only two to three weeks, the spectacle is incredibly beautiful, inspiring tulip festivals around the globe and international travel to Holland. Of course, here in the United States, you can also go to Holland, Michigan, for its display of some five million blooming tulips. There also are festivals in Woodburn, Oregon; Pella, Iowa; Cream Ridge, NJ; Albany, NY; and Skagit Valley, WA, to name a few. Just across the border are more spectacular tulip festivals, in Ottawa and Toronto, in large part due to the gratitude of Holland. During World War II, Canada sheltered the future Queen Juliana and her family during the Nazi occupation of

OUR GRASS IS ALWAYS GREENER

their homeland. Grateful for their receiving sanctuary, in 1945, the Dutch Royal Family sent 100,000 tulips to Canada. Continuing that tradition every year, the Dutch Bulb Growers Association sends 10,000 bulbs to Canada, along with another 10,000 from the royal family. Interestingly enough, Princess (later Queen) Juliana gave birth to Princess Margriet at the Ottawa Civic Hospital in 1943. To preserve Princess Margriet’s Dutch citizenship, the maternity ward was temporarily declared to be extraterritorial. Later, in 1946, Juliana requested a display be created for the hospital, sending another 20,500 bulbs.

Purchasing tulip bulbs no longer requires becoming bankrupt or mortgaging your home. With the help of Walmart, Lowes, and local corner stores, an almost infinite variety of garden splendors is available for even the tightest budget. If you want to go large, the mail-order nurseries vie in abundance for your interest, flooding the mailbox with eye-popping catalogues. If even that fails to impoverish your bank account, there is the internet where you can fall into the rabbit’s hole of the tulip universe.

How fortunate that there are so many sources of lovely garden displays, because you’ll be shopping again in two or three years. That’s the lifespan of a tulip bulb. Having graced the garden for that length of time, they die, making it possible — or necessary, depending on your point of view — to replace them with other even more spectacular displays. Another caution: Squirrels and chipmunks love tulip bulbs. They may be thwarted by planting them under a couple inches of gravel.

By now, viewing these options, you have invariably discov -

ered hyacinths, alliums, amaryllis, crocuses, and daffodils. Unlike tulips, some of them offer options not available with tulips. The genus allium includes chives, which are not only lovely and edible, but prolific. Plant a few and you’ll soon have enough to share and, before long, you’ll be discarding plants in an effort to control them.

The amaryllis is thought to be a disposable plant, blooming once, then being discarded. Don’t. Once the blossoms are gone and the leaves wither, re-pot it in rich soil and overwinter it in a cool place. The basement is fine, and if you think to water the soil occasionally, that would be good. After a couple months of rest, bring it back to warmth and water. It may not bloom every time it re-sprouts, but when it does, it will be more incredible than ever, often producing twice as many blossoms and splitting into two or more bulbs.

Daffodils are the best of all worlds. Not appetizing to squirrels, chipmunks, or deer, you won’t find your flower beds stripped of your efforts. While not edible, they do split and multiply quite satisfactorily, and your relatives and neighbors won’t pretend they don’t see you when you come offering some of your excess. Like tulips, they now come in a wide selection of varieties and colors, with names like Kiwi Sunset, Colossal, Tete-a-Tete, Pink Performance, Mount Hood, Butterfly, Green With Envy, and Pheasant’s Eye.

So here’s hoping you are now inspired to bid winter farewell, conjure up visions of splendor for spring, and create a palette natural art in your garden. Yes, you can plant bulbs in the spring; some bulbs planted early enough may grace you with blossoms this year, but will unfailingly bless you later.

What Buyers Can Do To Get The Best Mortgage Rate

Mortgage interest rates have been headlining financial news segments for several years running. Much of that news has been met with less than open arms, as rates have risen dramatically in recent years, an increase that is related to the ripple effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mortgage interest rates did not immediately spike after the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic in March 2020. In fact, data from the lender Freddie Mac indicates mortgage rates were still well below 4 percent on January 1, 2022. However, those rates hovered around 7 percent by the end of that year, and were still around that level at the start of 2024.

ers can do to help themselves as they seek to secure the lowest mortgage interest rate possible.

• Read your credit report and improve your score, if necessary. Many prospective homebuyers save up for years in anticipation of the day when they will purchase their own home. During this period, buyers can read their credit reports and address any discrepancies while taking steps to improve their credit scores. Lenders consider a host of variables to determine an applicant’s creditworthiness, and credit history and credit scores bear significant influence. The higher an applicant’s credit score, the more favorable the mortgage rate he or she is likely to get.

With such high interest rates, it’s understandable if prospective homebuyers feel helpless. However, there’s much that buy-

All Your Outdoor Furniture Needs....

• Take control of your debt-to-income ratio. Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio refers to what you owe in relation to how much you earn. The lower your DTI, the better you look to lenders. According to Bankrate, lenders typically want to avoid issuing mortgages to individuals if the monthly payment will exceed 28 percent of their gross monthly income, and people who may be near that threshold for a given home may be denied a mortgage if their DTI is high. Prospective homebuyers currently carrying significant debt, including consumer debt like credit cards and/ or student loan debts, should make a concerted effort to pay down that debt prior to applying for a mortgage. Prioritize paying off consumer debt before applying for a mortgage.

• Maintain a strong employment record. Steady employment and consistent earnings make mortgage applicants more attractive in the eyes of lenders. If you are currently shopping for a home or about to make an offer, now might not be the best time to switch jobs. Self-employed individuals and freelancers working multiple jobs can still qualify for a good mortgage rate, but they may need to provide more extensive documentation that indicates their earnings going back several years. Individuals who have been working full-time for the same company for years may only need to provide W-2 forms from the two most recent tax years.

• Shop around for rates. Rates may not fluctuate much between lenders, but it’s still worth shopping around for mortgage rates. A study from Freddie Mac found that the benefits of shopping around for a mortgage rate were especially notable in 2022 compared to the decade prior, saving borrowers who took the time to shop for rates substantial sums of money.

Mortgage rates remain high compared to a half-decade ago, but prospective homebuyers can take steps to increase their chances of qualifying for a favorable rate. ~ Metro

Contractors perform important work for millions of homeowners every day. Home improvement projects are complicated undertakings, and the experience of skilled contractors can ensure jobs are completed on time and within homeowners’ budgets.

Homeowners have undoubtedly heard horror stories from neighbors about projects that have gone awry. Projects can go sideways for many reasons, but a skilled contractor can help homeowners navigate such situations successfully. That underscores how important it can be to find the right professional for the job. The following are some tips homeowners can consider as they look to hire a contractor.

• Identify Which Professional You Need. Some contractors are of the jack-of-all-trades variety, but many specialize in a particular line of work. It’s important that homeowners identify which type of contractor they should work with prior to starting a project. This requires homeowners to define the goal of the project (i.e., new wood floor installation), which can serve as a springboard into finding the right type of contractor.

• Prioritize Building Safety. Safety should be the utmost priority for homeowners and contractors alike. Prior to hiring a contractor, homeowners should identify any safety restrictions that might be enforced by local governments and take note of all the permits necessary to get a job done. Homeowners can then discuss those restrictions and permits as they interview contractors. Projects that do not adhere to code are illegal and can compromise homeowners’ ability to sell their homes in the future. It’s vital to

work with contractors who are familiar with local codes and aware of which permits are necessary to ensure a project can go forward.

• Insist On Written Estimates. Handshake agreements offer no protection to homeowners or contractors, so estimates indicating what will be done and how much the project will cost should be provided. Homeowners should insist on receiving written estimates and interpret an unwillingness to provide one as a significant red flag.

• Know Your Rights. Laws vary by region, but in general homeowners have a right to a written contract and contractors are obligated to provide a copy of that contract signed by both parties. That contract must be provided prior to the start of the project. The contract should provide a detailed account of the work that will be done, as well as a timeline indicating important dates that components of the project will begin and be completed. The contract also should detail materials and who is providing them. Details regarding payments, guarantees, and warranties also should be cited.

• Do Not Pay In Cash. Some contractors may suggest that the project will cost less if they’re paid in cash. However, home improvements should never be cash transactions. Cash does not indicate proof of payment, which can be problematic if a dispute arises.

Contractors help homeowners turn dream projects into reality. Homeowners can employ various strategies to ensure they find the right professional for their home improvement project. ~ Metro

Garage Storage Solutions For Clutter

Who doesn’t have a space at home that serves as a catch-all for items that seemingly have no other home? For many, this storage wasteland where items go to be forgotten tends to be the garage. Before long, clutter can overwhelm the space and create an eyesore. Garage clutter also makes the space less functional by making it harder to park a vehicle or store equipment.

Organizing a garage takes work, but the end result can improve the appearance, free up space, make work more efficient, and make it easier to find and use tools more readily. Here are some ways to get started on organizing your garage.

Start With Cleaning And Culling

One of the first steps when organizing a garage is to thoroughly analyze what is needed and what can be removed from the garage. If items belong elsewhere, such as in a shed or the basement, move these items first. Discard damaged or broken items. Next, move on to tools or gear that haven’t been used in some time. Will you use it again? If the item has been collecting dust for years, you likely already know the answer to that question. Pile all items in the driveway so you have a clean slate with which to start. Measure the room to figure out the dimensions so you’ll know how much wall space is available for storage.

Free Up Floor Space

The ultimate goal of a garage storage renovation is to make floor space available, according to Stacey Schweiger of Sunshine Organizing. Lifting items off the floor makes access easier and

protects items should there be a flood or leaks.

A combination of wall shelves, overhead shelves, cabinets, and wall hooks can help homeowners create more floor area. Organization becomes easier when everything has a designated space where it can be easily returned to.

Consider Weight

When investing in shelving and racks, remember that many of the items stored in garages tend to be heavy. It’s important to ensure that shelves and hooks are heavy-duty and able to withstand the weight of pressure put on them. Verify the maximum weight so that racks will not buckle or tip over and cause issues.

Utilize Overhead Space

Overhead storage can be reserved for items that aren’t used frequently, such as seasonal decorations or luggage.

Out Of Sight

Some items should be stored out of sight and beyond the reach of children and pets. Cabinets and containers can be used and locked to secure materials, such as fertilizers, paints, solvents, and other chemicals.

Additional Ideas

Magnets, pegboards, organization bins and systems, and similar products can be used to corral small or errant items like hand tools, fasteners and more. ~ Metro

By Mark Okrant

Let’s Talk About Stone Walls

A drive or walk along New Hampshire’s country roads places one in close contact with artifacts of the region’s natural and cultural history. Threading their way through the countryside is miles of stone wall—objects dating back more than two centuries. Robert Thorston, professor of geology at the University of Connecticut, defines a stone wall as any continuous row of large stones, or stack of small ones, that is at

least four times as long as it is wide. Most stone walls consist either of a single or double wall. The rock type used in their construction depends upon available fieldstones (i.e., stones found in a field)—with granite being the most popular, and gneiss and limestone serving as alternatives in some locations.

To understand the origin of those mysterious barriers necessitates a look back at the Laurentide Ice Sheet, which

flowed across the region before receding, beginning 30,000 years ago and lasting approximately 15,000 more. The great ice sheet is estimated to have been more than one mile thick.

As it moved south, the ice stripped away the region’s soils and lifted rocks ranging in size from tiny grains to giant boulders. The twin processes of plucking and abrasion produced what scientists have termed the greatest land transaction in our nation’s history. Plucking—pulling away by prying rock from the lee sides of elevated land—produced a massive load of material within, under, and on both sides of the ice sheet. As the glacier moved forward, abrasion ground away at the original landforms. Centuries later, a warming trend gradually brought an end to the ice age. As the glacier retreated, it left behind massive deposits of unsorted rocks and fragments of varying sizes, called glacial till.

Where fine soils were left behind by melt water, these formed the basis of a farming economy that early colonists were quick to exploit. Farms were scratched out on patches of land that contained old-growth forest. There was very high demand for wood, principally used to build houses and barns. During the early years of colonial farming, fences throughout the region were constructed of wood from that same forest. Meanwhile, a massive number of rocks lay hidden beneath the surface. As more trees from the old-growth forest were clear-cut, those rock deposits became exposed to the surface.

So, how did all of the raw materials, i.e., rocks, find their way to the surface? Climate played a principal role in the process. During the early years of colonial settlement in New England, there was an extended period of very cold weather. With cold

temperatures came an increasing need for heating fuel until the supply of old growth trees was exhausted. In turn, the absence of a protective ground cover led to extensive frost heaving. As a consequence, rocks that had been deposited by the ice sheet were exposed to the surface.

With the appearance of countless numbers of rocks, farmers found the process of tilling the soil extremely difficult; rocks had to be moved in order for farmers to cultivate their land. With the help of teams of oxen, farmers began the backbreaking process of hauling rocks to the outer edges of their pastures and tilled lands. Here, rocks were dumped in piles forming boundaries between farmsteads. Thorston tells us the rocks that were used to build stone walls had been moved to the edges of fields by a previous generation. This makes sense, given the incredible amount of time and energy necessitated to transport the rocks, stone by stone and load by load, in the first place.

The earliest documented stone wall in New England dates back to 1607, built north of Portland, Maine by the Virginia Company. This was the exception rather than the rule, as most of the region’s stone walls were built between 1775 and 1825, from the beginning of the Revolutionary War until the inauguration of sixth U.S. president, John Quincy Adams. From 1775 onward, New England farmers built thousands of walls, with a number subsequently repaired. According to a fencing census published in 1871, the total length of those walls was in excess of 236,000 miles, or nearly the distance from earth to the moon.

Ultimately, changing economic forces within the nation as a whole discontinued construction of stone walls. One key

INSTALLATION | REMOVAL | REPAIRS

factor was the onset of America’s Industrial Revolution, which resulted in development of textile mills within the region’s towns and cities. As cities became attractive workplaces, the exodus of farm families continued in earnest. Also, beginning in the 1820s and lasting throughout the 19th century, the push of farming into more fertile soils in New York, Ohio, and western territories stimulated a further evacuation of the region’s farms.

One question arose while researching about stone walls: what is involved in repairing or removing one of these structures? Fortunately, there is a lot of information from Hopkintonbased Kevin Gardner, arguably one of the nation’s leading authorities on the topic. How serious is Gardner about stone walls? Watching him construct and deconstruct a miniature stone wall the entire time he lectures on the topic provides all the convincing anyone could want.

When I asked Gardner about deconstructing stone walls, I swear I heard a clap of thunder, so distasteful is the notion to him. Gardner’s reaction told me that no one in his right mind would attempt to deconstruct a stone wall without the assistance of a well-built conveyance, such as a large dump truck. Repairs to stone walls are categorized according to their purpose. Simple repairs generally involve one or two strong people walking along the wall, picking up fallen rocks and placing them on the top. Complex repairs (or restorations) necessitate dismantling and rebuilding. This process involves a number of steps if the wall is in its original state. Often photos and air photos will be consulted in order to determine the original/intended use of the wall, be it for fencing livestock or as a decorative structure.

Gardner surprised me when he stated that walls used for sheep fencing were originally 4.0 to 4.5 feet tall. When I commented that I’d never encountered a stone wall that was so tall, he informed me that most of the walls we view on the landscape today are considerably shorter, as a product of two types of shrinkage. Old stone walls will lose 1.5 to 2 feet from stones falling off the top; meanwhile, the height at the bottom is reduced by leaf fall, accumulation, and rotting that build up the surrounding floor along the wall’s base.

As someone who deconstructed a stone wall while building fire trails in the state forest more than 50 years ago, I can offer my own thoughts to readers:

The rocks that comprise those structures are heavier than you might imagine

Insect life, in the form of red ant and spider nests, are likely to be disturbed during deconstruction

These are remnants of a significant time in the region’s natural and cultural history; therefore—

Please leave them alone!

For those of you who want to learn more about stone walls, here are some excellent sources:

Kevin Gardner’s books, The Granite Kiss and Stone Building Robert Thorston (professor of geology at the University of Connecticut), Stone by Stone

Kevin Fife, Art of Dry Stack Stone Walls.

Rethinking Rain:

Exploring The Dynamic Beauty of Rain Gardens

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

As stewards of the picturesque Lakes Region, residents are interested in preserving its ecological integrity for future generations. In recent years, one innovative solution that has emerged is rain gardens. The lush, sustainable oases are not only a testament of commitment to environmental stewardship but also a vital tool in maintaining the health and vitality of the region.

You might ask what a rain garden is: The name sounds pretty, and evokes images of a gentle summer rain, humid earth, and colorful flowers soaking in the moisture. In a way, a rain garden fits that description, but it is much more than water on plants and flowers.

At their core, rain gardens are designed to mimic the natural processes of the ecosystem, capturing and filtering rainwater before it enters the waterways. Unlike traditional gardens, rain gardens are strategically positioned to intercept runoff from roofs, driveways, and other impermeable surfaces.

Before reading on, know that creating a rain garden is not a quick and easy project. You cannot simply dig a hole on your property, throw in a variety of rocks and finish it off with some pretty plants. Many things factor into a rain garden, so be prepared for a lengthier project, and the need to call in a professional from time to time.

Why go to all the trouble of making a rain garden? First and foremost, rain gardens serve as nature’s filtration system, removing pollutants and sediment from stormwater runoff. This natural purification process not only improves the quality of water in our lakes and streams but also safeguards the health of aquatic ecosystems.

According to information at the UNH Cooperative Extension, “A rain garden is a shallow depression designed to capture

stormwater runoff and allow it to slowly infiltrate into the soil. It is planted with perennials, grasses and/or shrubs that tolerate wet and dry conditions. The plants transpire water, releasing it to the atmosphere, and help remove pollutants. If sited and constructed properly, water infiltrates within one to two days and does not sustain mosquitos.”

If you spot a rain garden in someone’s yard, you might think it is simply an indentation in the ground or on a lawn, with flowers planted in or around it. Ideally, a rain garden is built in a low area where it can collect runoff water and let it seep into the soil.

Anyone can install a rain garden in their yard, but it takes some research before beginning, and a strong dose of determination to see the project through. If you are thinking of adding a rain garden to your property, consider whether the site is actually viable for such an addition. With the heavy rains we have endured in recent years, a rain garden is not good in an area with a high water table or heavy, clay-like soil. If the area does not have good drainage or has rocks or a ledge, it probably is not the best place for a rain garden.

Be aware of things such as electric or gas lines, or bedrock. Locate the rain garden at least 10 feet away from buildings that have a basement in order to prevent seepage into the basement. Keep a rain garden away from tree roots or drinking water, and also from a septic tank or leachfield. Technically, a rain garden is all about the soil, so be sure your ground is applicable for this type of outdoor feature. Good soil is essential for the success

of your rain garden. Remove any existing turf, weeds, or debris from the site. Test the soil to determine its texture and drainage capabilities. Ideally, you want a mix of sandy loam that can absorb water quickly while allowing for adequate drainage.

To determine the size of your rain garden, and its depth, consider the type of soil and the percolation rate, according to “Residential Rain Garden” by Dr. Cathy Neal, Extension Specialist-Landscape and Horticulture at the UNH Cooperative Extension. Neal’s information informs that clay soil allows for a three-inch depth; six inches for loam soil; and eight inches for sandy soils.

Calculations will help you determine the size of your rain garden, with an average size about 1/3 the size of the drainage area and 4-8 inches deep.

As per a perc test, an infiltration rate of 1.5 inches per hour minimum is recommended. In areas with heavy soil, soil replacement is sometimes necessary, and this is a job for a professional.

Once a suitable location is chosen, the process of excavation commences, creating a shallow basin with gently sloping sides to facilitate water infiltration. Before you begin to make a rain garden, call Dig Safe after outlining the site with string, flags, or paint.

You can make the rain garden attractive by adding flowers and shrubs that are able to withstand sun and shade and attract birds and pollinators. From native grasses and wildflowers to shrubs and ferns, each plant is strategically placed to maximize

biodiversity and aesthetic appeal. Choose native plants that are well-adapted to your region’s climate and soil conditions. Native plants require less maintenance and are more resilient to local pests and diseases.

Finally, the addition of mulch and compost enriches the soil, providing essential nutrients for plant growth and water retention. Spread a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or wood chips, over the soil surface of your rain garden. Mulch helps to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure. Aim for a thickness of 2-3 inches, taking care not to bury the plant crowns.

Carefully plant your selected vegetation in the prepared soil, spacing them according to their mature size. Water the newly planted rain garden thoroughly to help establish the roots. Regular maintenance, including weeding, watering during dry spells, and pruning, will ensure the health and vitality of your rain garden.

A rain garden can be a wonderful addition to your yard, providing a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. They help to control stormwater runoff. Beyond their functional benefits, rain gardens add beauty and visual interest to landscapes. With their colorful array of native plants, interesting textures, and seasonal changes, rain gardens can enhance the curb appeal of residential properties and public spaces.

Information for this story came from the UNH Cooperative Extension (Copyright © 2024, University of New Hampshire).

Dandelions

Depending upon the weather, here in New Hampshire, from mid-April to early May, the yellow-flowering dandelions begin to appear on many lawns and grassy green fields. Commonly thought of as a nuisance plant to be done away with, the bright yellow flowers of dandelions attract bees and other pollinating insects.

For much of recorded history, dandelions have been used by humans as a source of food and as an herbal remedy used for medicinal purposes. Dandelion flowers were enjoyed by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, and for centuries the Chinese used dandelions to treat liver diseases and digestive problems.

The dandelion was introduced in America at the time of the Mayflower landing. Afterwards, Native Americans learned to boil the dandelions in water and use them as a remedy for upset stomachs and as a digestive aid. Dandelions are a rich source of vitamins A, C, and K, and the minerals calcium, iron, and potassium.

Because its jagged-edged leaves resemble the sharp teeth of a lion, the plant derives its name from the Latin dens leonis and dent de lion

The dandelion’s widespread root system loosens hardpacked soil, aerates the earth, and helps to reduce soil erosion. Furthermore, the resilient fat taproot pulls nutrients from deep within the soil, making them available to other nearby

Since the bright yellow flowers of the dandelions go from

bud to seed within a little more than a week, it makes the plant difficult to destroy. An individual plant can live for years. They have the ability to grow in poor soil, survive droughts, and they can quickly spread through a yard, covering green grass with their bright yellow flowers. They also can grow in some of the most unlikely places, such as construction sites, cracks in cement walks, parking lots, along roadsides, and in totally barren habitats.

Dandelions are a source of food for bumblebees, solitary bees, and honeybees, along with beetles and butterflies.

Dandelions razed by a lawn mower or pulled out of the ground by hand will unquestionably “be back.” If you must rid an area in your yard of dandelions, it’s best to use a special weeding fork, dandelion digger, or weeding knife, inserting it into the soil along the length of the plant. The taproot usually extends straight down from the clump of leaves, so place your tool alongside that root.

Dandelions rely primarily on the wind to scatter their seeds.

When the yellow dandelion petals dry out, a seed head of white “fluff” known as pappus — a parachute-like umbrella made of about 100 bristles — appears. The pappus then catches the wind which carries the dandelion seed along. Dry and windy weather are perfect conditions for seeds to be spread, usually 2 meters away from the mother plant. At times, on strong windy days, the seeds can be spread up to 30 kilometers (1 mile = 1.60934 kilometers) away from the mother plant. The pappus closes in rainy or foggy weather, when the wind is weak.

Are dandelions edible? Young leaves are edible and they are loaded with vitamins and antioxidants. The roots can be ground into a (quite tasty) coffee substitute, and the flowers can be made into wine (just leave some for the wildlife).

Historically, dandelion sap was said to cure warts, while a tea made with its leaves was supposed to help calm stomach aches. Herbalists still use dandelions to treat skin conditions, asthma, low blood pressure, poor circulation, ulcers, constipation, colds,

When harvesting dandelions or other wild greens, such as chicory and burdock — also nutritional edible weeds —, make sure to harvest only from areas that you are certain have not been treated with chemical fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides. Also avoid high-traffic areas like trails, roadways, or animal/pet areas. Always thoroughly wash dandelion greens, flowers, and roots before use. A salad spinner works great in getting excess water off leaves and flowers before cooking. Store any harvested parts in the refrigerator if they are not going to be used right away.

The green dent de lion-shaped leaves are a delicious addition to salads, sandwiches, and omelets, or sauteed with garlic and olive oil (the way my mother used to make them).

If you are an adventuresome cook and love to try new recipes,

there are several dandelion recipes you can find online: dandelion fritters, baking with dandelion petals, and brewing your own dandelion root coffee/tea, which is said to be “labor-intensive”. A country wine, dandelion wine, is brewed with citrus fruit, raisins, sugar, water, yeast, and dandelions. If it tastes slightly bitter, add a dash of honey for sweetness. The wine is best served chilled.

In the summer 2007 edition of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Quarterly Newspaper, “Ten Things to Know About Dandelions” by Anita Sanchez says, “To this day, herbalists hail the dandelion as the perfect plant medicine: It is a gentle diuretic that provides nutrients and helps the digestive system function at peak efficiency.”

YouTube has an interesting segment on “The Dandelion — The Plant That Conquered The World.”

To sum it up, the question is, Do you want to rid your lawns of these pesky weeds/herbs? Secondly, do you want to be adventuresome and try some new recipes? If you go with adventuresome, be sure to observe the advice about where to safely harvest them.

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Watch Out For These Poisonous Backyard Plants

Spending time in the backyard can be restorative and relaxing. Is it any wonder why homeowners are increasingly improving their homes so that they can blur the lines between the indoors and outside and enjoy more recreational moments in nature?

Part of what makes a landscape inviting is the bevy of plants dotting suburban landscapes. Individuals may take painstaking pleasure in mapping out landscapes that are both functional and appealing. When selecting foliage, it’s wise for homeowners to familiarize themselves with certain plants that may not be very welcome in their entertaining areas — particularly those that are dangerous. Poison ivy, oak, and sumac may be some of the better-known poisonous plants, but there are others that can prove problematic as well.

• Hogweed: This is an invasive plant that grows throughout North America but is particularly well-known along the Atlantic coast. The sap in the leaves can cause phytophotodermatitis, which is a chemical reaction after exposure to sunlight. Painful, severe blisters can form on the skin wherever it touches, and hogweed sap may cause blindness if it gets into the eyes.

• Lily of the Valley: This plant is known for delicate, bellshaped flowers and a sweet scent. While Lily of the Valley is not poisonous to touch, if ingested, toxic glycosides in the flowers, berries, leaves, and stems may cause a host of problems, including disorientation, vomiting, blurry vision, and rashes.

• Bleeding Heart: Native to woodlands, this perennial loves the shade. It produces unique flowers that resemble tiny pink or white hearts with drops of blood at the bottom. Roots and foliage of Bleeding Heart contain alkaloids that are toxic to ani

mals if ingested in high quantities.

• Nerrium Oleander: All parts of this beautiful shrub are extremely poisonous. It should definitely be kept away from pets and treated with caution or avoided altogether.

• Foxgloves: Adored among pollinators, Foxgloves produce towering pink and white trumpet blooms in early summer. The whole plant is toxic if eaten, however. People who eat any part or attempt to make tea may find their heart rate slowing down or becoming irregular.

• Stinging Nettle: Brushing up against Stinging Nettle can be a painful experience. The plant has tiny stinging hairs on its leaves and stems.

• Wild Hemlock: This is a very poisonous member of the carrot family. If consumed, Wild Hemlock, which looks like parsley, can cause health problems. Toxins also can be absorbed through the skin.

• Deadly Nightshade (Belladonna): A beautiful plant that produces shiny, black cherry-like berries, this contains a poison that can paralyze the gastrointestinal muscles and eventually the heart. The Royal Horticultural Society says that even rubbing up against it can irritate the skin.

Many plants, however beautiful, can be dangerous if ingested or touched. ~ Metro

How to Safeguard Your Vision When Spending Time Outdoors

The great outdoors beckons billions of people across the globe every day. There’s much to be gained from spending time outdoors. According to the American Psychological Association, exposure to nature has been linked to improved attention, lower stress, improvements in mood, and reduced risk of psychiatric disorders.

With so much to gain from spending time in the great outdoors, it’s no wonder so many people embrace opportunities to get outside. When doing so, it’s important that individuals take proper precautions, such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated. But it’s equally important to protect your eyes before soaking up some springtime and summer sun.

• Purchase Prescription Sunglasses, If Necessary. Sunglasses are vital to protecting the eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. If you wear prescription eyeglasses indoors, then you should also wear prescription sunglasses when spending time outside. Even contact lens wearers may want to invest in prescription sunglasses for those times when they’re engaging in physical activity outdoors. Sweat makes its way into the eyes when exerting oneself outdoors, and that can make contacts uncomfortable. Airborne allergens like pollen also can make contacts less comfortable when outside, and prescription sunglasses can help people avoid such discomfort while protecting the eyes from UV rays.

• Wear A Hat Or Visor. Hats and visors also help to protect the eyes from UV rays. The National Eye Institute recommends wearing sunglasses even on cloudy days, but it’s easy to forget them when leaving home or the car on an overcast morning or afternoon. Hats or visors can serve as a safety net on cloudy days when you forget to bring your sunglasses.

• Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes. Whether it’s airborne allergens or debris, things can get into the eyes when spending time outdoors. In such instances, your first instinct might be to rub your eyes. However, the University of Utah Health notes that rubbing your eyes can be very dangerous and increase the risk for illness. Virus droplets can attach to hands and enter the body through the conjunctiva, a thin layer of tissue that lines the inner eyelid. This can cause infection in the eye. Dust and dirt on relatively clean but unwashed hands also can enter the eyes upon rubbing them, potentially leading to irritation and infection. So it’s best to avoid rubbing eyes when they feel irritated and opt for eye cleaners and eyelid wipes instead.

• Keep Your Hands Clean. Though it’s best to avoid touching your eyes with your hands, doing so is an instinctive response for many people. Frequent hand washing can keep hands free from bacteria and dust that can enter the eyes after they are touched or rubbed. No one knows how clean or dirty surfaces outside their own homes are, and surfaces outside may be particularly dirty or dusty. Frequent hand washing reduces the likelihood that dirt and debris will find its way into your eyes. ~ Metro

Crafting Your Outdoor Oasis: Ideas to Creating the Perfect Living Retreat

Al fresco entertaining has taken off in recent years. It’s much more common today to find homeowners who want to extend living spaces to the outdoors in meaningful ways that go beyond a few lawn chairs and a stand-alone grill. Dream backyard living rooms mirror similar spaces indoors and contain features like cozy corners, lush furniture, televisions, or movie projectors. Plus, they often abut additional outdoor luxuries like fully functional kitchens.

Homeowners have various options when designing outdoor living spaces. Above all else, spaces should be created with the goal of encouraging people to get together. Here are some ideas:

Poolside Retreat

Homeowners with pools and other water features likely want this area to be the star of the entertaining space. Furniture will be more of the lounging variety, with comfortable chaises and spots to catch the sun. If a swim-up bar isn’t possible, a rolling bar cart can be stocked with essentials for cocktails or mocktails for the kids. Furniture near the pool will be exposed to a lot of sun, so look for durable, sun-resistant fabrics.

when the weather cools down. Mirror the look of the same setup

indoors by arranging outdoor sofas so they flank the fireplace. Add some ottomans or side tables for stowing mulled cider or hot chocolate. A mantel above the fireplace can hold pots of greenery or candles that add to the ambiance.

Consider A Custom Banquette

Unused corners on a patio or rooftop retreat can utilize a custom-made banquette that provides the functionality of a sofa sectional outdoors. Have a contractor design it to the exact specifications of the area, and add a rug to ground the space.

Vary The Flooring

Depending on the entertaining space, a balance of soft grass, pavers, or other hardscape will be necessary. Certain areas will need to be hard enough for chairs and other furniture, particularly for those who are including an outdoor dining table in the design.

Create Some Privacy

Some homeowners are lucky enough to have natural barriers that offer privacy in their entertaining spaces. When there isn’t enough, tall shrubs, inexpensive bamboo fencing or trellis can provide a blind that makes an outdoor living area more cozy and private. Consider placing tall, potted plants on rolling casters to

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Sure-Grow Guidance For First-Time Gardeners

Each year, thousands of first-timers will join the millions of seasoned gardeners who al-ready know the satisfaction of picking a perfect tomato at its peak, serving up salads from greens grown right outside the back door, or harvesting home-grown peppers and specialty herbs never even seen at the grocery store.

Most of us want that home-grown, healthy goodness that veggie and herb gardens provide but, sometimes, it’s hard to figure out just where to start. Diligent effort and smart investment can result in less-than-expected results, but starting your own produce plot and reaping its rewards is not out of your reach.

Even a small garden can fill your table with fresh, nutritious food and help save money, too. In addition to the satisfaction you’ll get from growing your own food, gardening delivers a host of other health benefits, from low-impact exercise to boosting vitamin D levels with the hours you’ll spend in the sunshine.

Whether you start with a few containers on your patio, create a raised bed in a side yard, or go big and plant a grand victory garden, gardening can be easy if you start with these six simple steps.

Step 1 – Pick Transplants

While every plant starts from a seed, transplants make establishing your garden easier and help ensure better success. Transplants, like Bonnie Plants which are grown regionally across the country and are available at most garden retailers nationwide, can trim six to eight weeks off growing time and allow you to skip over the hard part of the growing process when plants are most vulnerable, so they’re more likely to survive and thrive.

You’ll find a wide variety of veggies and herbs, available in biodegradable pots, making the selection process easy. Plant what you eat and try some easy-to-grow favorites, like these:

• Easy herbs – The volatile oils that make herbs valuable in cooking also naturally repel many insects and garden pests. Try basils, parsley, rosemary, and something new, like grapefruit mint, which tastes as refreshing as it sounds.

• Bell peppers – You’ll find the Bell peppers grown in your own backyard will taste sweeter than those bought from your grocer. Harvest them green or red, when vitamin levels are higher. Bonnie Plants offers the classic “Bonnie Bell,” that’s a productive, proven winner. Or try something different, like the

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• Lettuce – Go for “leaf” lettuces like “Buttercrunch,” “Red Sails,” or Romaine. They’ll tol-erate more heat than head lettuces and, if you keep picking the leaves, you’ll get multiple harvests.

• Summer squash – Squash are easy-grow, too, and very productive. Try zucchini “Black Beauty” or new-for-2013 Golden Scallop Patty Pan Squash. Many gardeners call this the flying saucer squash because of its unique shape. The flavor is delicate and mild, similar to zucchini.

• Tomatoes – These crimson favorites are the most popular backyard vegetable. Choose dis-ease-resistant “Better Boy,” “Bonnie Original”, or the extra-easy cherry tomato “Sweet 100.”

Step 2 – Location, Location, Location

Be sure the spot you choose for your plants gets six to eight hours of sunlight.

Sun-deprived plants won’t bear as much fruit and are more vulnerable to insects and stress.

Step 3 – Suitable Soil

Success starts with the soil. Most vegetables do well in moist, well-drained soil that’s rich in organic matter like compost or peat moss. Adding organic material loosens stiff soil, helps retain moisture, and nourishes important soil organisms.

Step 4 – Feed Your Food

All edible plants remove some nutrients from the soil and can quickly exhaust soil without the help of a fertilizer. Since one of the reasons for growing your own vegetables is to con-trol exactly what your family consumes, be sure to use all-natural, safe products like Bonnie Plant Food, which is derived from oilseed extract such as soybean seed extract. Research shows plants are healthier and more vigorous using organically based foods, rather than chemicalbased options.

Step 5 –Water Well

Most vegetables aren’t drought-tolerant, so you’ll need to water them regularly. The closer your garden is to a water source, the easier it will be to keep plants hydrated. One inch of water weekly is adequate for most vegetables.

Step 6 Pest Patrol

Let natural predators fight your battles, hand-pick pests, or dislodge them with a jet of water. If you spray, do it late in the day when beneficial insects are less active.

You can find plenty of resources to help guide you through the planting process, from web-sites like www.bonnieplants. com to your local community college’s agricultural extension. Read up, watch videos, take a class, and get your hands dirty.

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A Day In The Life of a Window Cleaner

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Have you decided it’s window cleaning day? Come springtime, homeowners are inspecting their windows and are probably less than impressed with what they see. Wintertime slush, dirt, and grime, not to mention snow and ice, has dirtied windows. As you walk around the house, you become aware that the windows are crying out for a good cleaning.

No problem, you say as you pull out a bottle of window cleaner and a few rags. You spray and wipe down the window glass and think you are done until the sunlight shows you the big streaks and spots you missed. You shake your head in frustration and take the advice of someone who tells you to use newspapers to wipe down the window instead of cloth.

You do so, but realize there is no big difference and you still have streaks, so you think it must be the cleaner. You surf the

internet for the best cleaning products and still don’t have really clean windows. At this point, you might walk away in frustration.

Thaddeus Bell of Streak Free or Die Window Cleaning, located in Laconia, is familiar with that scenario, and he has heard it repeatedly when potential customers call to inquire about getting their windows washed.

Thaddeus is a sincere business person, treating his busy window-cleaning company with care. He believes in doing a thorough, top-notch job with honesty and total attention to detail. He explains that he learned the correct way to clean windows from an acquaintance who owned a window-cleaning business. He also picked up tips when watching how-tos online and saw an opportunity to start a window-cleaning business in the

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Today he is busy with residential and business accounts in the Lakes Region and beyond. “I have a welding background and I am originally from Nashua,” he explains. “My wife, Kesia, and I started cleaning offices at night and on weekends when we were first married. Fortunately, even with the pandemic, we were able to grow our business, focusing on cleaning homes, vacation rentals, and Airbnbs.

“In 2021, we noticed the need for professional window-cleaners. We serve many clients in our area, whether it be for cleaning homes, washing windows, or working with local businesses.”

Thaddeus is quite busy and has two employees. He says certain times of the year are more demanding, such as springtime.

“When we wash a client’s windows, we are conscientious. I try to treat each property as if it were my own. I also try putting myself in my client’s shoes to ensure their needs are met,” says Thaddeus.

Thaddeus Bell, the owner of Streak Free or Die Window Cleaning, washes the exterior of a window at Wayfarer Coffee Roaster in Laconia/Lakeport.

Although spring and summer are busy, winter window-cleaning can be done, but it comes with more restrictions, such as the temperature. “As long as it is above 25 degrees, I can wash a

window,” Thaddeus explains.

The supplies used by Thaddeus are simple: a Dawn dish soap mixture for washing the window and a water-fed filtration system. “I use water from the house I am servicing, and the first time I wash the windows, I do it by hand to get them up to par,” he says.

For those who try to wash their windows vs. getting a professional, your windows might show streaks after washing (which can be frustrating), because grease or oil is still on the glass. There is also the issue of the window needing to be thoroughly dry when you clean it. He also advises using a squeegee versus rags. “Get a good quality squeegee, which makes all the difference,” he adds.

If you wash your windows in the springtime, Thaddeus says waiting until the pollen has settled down makes the job easier. When cleaning a window, he does the entire window, including the sills and screens. (Thaddeus uses a screen cleaner to do a good job.) Pollen and dirt can gather on the sills and should also be cleaned if you want to do a thorough job.

Most customers who retain Streak Free or Die Window Cleaning want the inside and outside of their windows to be

cleaned, which sometimes means moving furniture in the home to get to the interior of the windows.

“If the furniture is large and heavy, I sometimes have to hire a moving company,” he says. This attests to the fact that there can be much more to the job than simply cleaning a window.

Why do clients hire a window-cleaning company versus doing it themselves? Says Thaddeus, “A professional windowcleaner can get it done in hours instead of days, and there is always the safety factor.” Not every homeowner is comfortable with heights and lugging around window-cleaning equipment.

With many clients being second-home owners, Thaddeus says they are often particular about their beloved retreat. They baby every part of the home, including keeping the windows and screens clean and in good shape.

Part of Thaddeus’ business is washing the windows of commercial clients.

“Some of our big clients are Taylor Home, Loon Mountain, the Lakeport Opera House, Franklin Savings Bank, and Dox on Winnsquam,” he says.

Many clients want their windows washed monthly to keep their business looking good. For taller buildings, that could necessitate pulling out a tall ladder to reach the top windows. However, Thaddeus uses a cleaning system to reach three stories up without leaving the ground.

With springtime being so busy, when second-home owners opening their summer residences around the Lakes Region, Thaddeus’ wife, Kesia, jumps in to help with the window-cleaning.

The business is growing and now has two work vehicles, allowing his employees to clean windows in one location while Thaddeus is working at another site. He explains that he wants his employees to know as much, if not more, than he does, and it shows in the sparkling windows Streak Free or Die is cleaning around the area.

For some homeowners, a few days of the year are set aside for window-cleaning, but for Streak Free or Die, every day is window-cleaning day, and Thaddeus wouldn’t have it any other way.

For more information, visit www.streakfreeordie.com.

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Improving Storage In Common Areas

Increasing storage capabilities at home is a popular goal among many homeowners and renters. Despite how much space a person may have at home, there’s often a desire to have more or maximize the areas that are there. According to the Self-Storage Almanac, there are an estimated 51,206 storage facilities operating in the United States today, and MJ Partners Self-Storage Update says 11.1 percent of households currently rent at self-storage facilities. IBISWorld indicates the Canadian self-storage industry has grown at an average annual rate of 3.1 percent over the last five years.

People often turn to external storage facilities to house their belongings when space is at a premium at home. Others may focus their organization energy on closets, garages, and basements to free up room. But common areas around the home also can provide additional sources of storage. Common areas are locations where people come together for activities.

Living Room/Family Room

Living rooms and family rooms are areas of the home where people spend many hours. They tend to be multifunctional spaces where people entertain, lounge, and even enjoy movies or gaming. Possibilities in these living spaces that can create extra storage include furniture that serves double-duty. For example, a storage ottoman adds decorative appeal but also can be filled

with board games or books. Cabinet-style TV stands may not be as streamlined as mounted versions, but are ideal places to stash games, remote controls, and other accessories.

Entryway

An entryway or mudroom can quickly succumb to clutter. When organizing such a space, think about the needs of the household. A storage bench will be a place where everyone can sit to put on shoes, and then stow footwear underneath when not in use. A wall-mounted rack can hold the current season’s jackets or sweaters, as well as purses or backpacks for easy access. A shelf with some hooks can store keys or hold a basket to store the daily mail.

Hallway and Closet

Closet organization systems can be the unsung heroes in closets utilized by multiple members of the family. These customizeable components can be sized accordingly for the space, and then configured as needed with a balance of shelves and hanging racks. An out-of-the way nook or long hallway can be enhanced with a bookshelf to hold photo albums or that library that only continues to grow as new reading material is acquired. Homeowners can make common areas more functional with the addition of storage. ~ Metro

Custom Wool Braided Rugs For Every Decor

Entering the Country Braid House in Tilton is a voyage into an ocean of color and pattern. Eve-rywhere you look are handmade woolen braided rugs: underfoot, piled high on tables, hanging from the walls, or hanging on racks from the ceiling.

Colors range from subtle earth tones to the bright and the colorful. Shapes are round, Nutting (a unique and traditional New England shape named after artist/author Wallace Nutting), square, hearts, ovals, rectangular, hexagonal, or intriguing combinations of hooked and braided rugs. Each is a unique work of art.

President Sarah Jurta, an engineer by trade, is a third-generation rug-maker. Proudly, she launches into the saga of her family’s journey in the rug trade.

“My grandfather, George Jurta, was the head mechanic of the J.P. Stevens woolen mill. It was said that, ‘If George can’t fix it, it is time to throw it away.’

“With only an eighth-grade education, he invented a braiding machine that braids the wool into a consistent tight braid.”

Patented in 1968, the seven machines made by George are still in use at the Country Braid House. They also use a cutting machine designed and built by George. It cuts the wool into the nar-row strips which are fed on rolls into the braiding machine.

Sarah goes on, “The braiding machines need to be watched. There is a knack to learning how to use them. It is an art form.”

She continues, “The business started with Marion (wife) and George Jurta; then it was my moth-er, Jan Jurta, with Marion Jurta; then my mom, Jan, for 35 years. Five years ago, I convinced my husband to move up here from Boston to take over the business.

Story and Photo by Lee Caldwell

“We are a niche business that specializes in custom rugs. A client will bring in samples of their wallpaper or paint chips or fabric and we will go to the sample wall to select the wool and decide on the colors, pattern, size, shape, and design of the rug.”

The sample wall, much like a paint fan, has strips of colorful wool with hues to complement or contrast in the finished product.

Sarah continues, “There is a lot of math involved in the process. On the computer, we can also do electronic renderings of what the rug will look like when completed. We can also pull up render-ings of previous rugs.

“Our rugs are authentic. We only use new wool and woolblend fabric to make them. We buy wool on bolts from distributors in the United States. Unfortunately, wool is getting harder and hard-er to find.

“The braids are then hand-laced and the hand-lacing is concealed within the braids. The rugs are beautiful, durable, and reversible.”

Leaving the display room, she drifts into the cutting, braiding, and lacing workroom where de-sign and operations manager Ryan Franklin demonstrates the art of using the braiding machine, feeding strips of wool into the machine while a tight, symmetrical braid emerges. An 8 by 10 rug takes 2 to 2.5 days to braid using the machine.

The center of the room is dominated by a huge table, as handlacing the rugs must be completed on a flat surface. Sarah stated that their largest custom-made braided rug was 10 feet by 54 feet. Its pink and blue braids are currently gracing the floor of a New York City apartment. Her mother, Jan, had to rent the Tilton Train Station to have a space large enough to hand-lace it.

Today, Ryan is hand-lacing a rectangular rug of mermaidcolored blues and greens, commis-sioned by interior designer Kristina Crestin. Rug design specialist Grace Allaire then pulls up the computer screen that shows the rug’s electronic rendering.

“We do work with interior designers as well as individual clients,” says Sarah. “One of my fa-vorite things is helping people design a custom rug and hearing comments like, ‘It is so much pretti-er than I imagined.’ One of our rugs, destined for a beach house, was designed with beige and cream wool to capture the ambiance of beach sand.

“Braided rugs can be used with many different types of decor. Our rugs have gone as far away as Uruguay and have been featured in such publications as Architectural Digest, House and Garden, Country Living, Traditional Home, Southern Accents,

and Yankee Magazine.”

Looking forward, Sarah is hoping to create a partnership with a local high school where students will come in and potentially design and then execute their own rug designs.

In addition to creating custom braided rugs, Country Braid House offers a repair service for vin-tage hand-made braided rugs and DIY kits for those who want to attempt to braid their own rugs. They sell wool remnants, have a limited number of hooked rugs for sale, and have a selection of both new and used in-stock authentic braided rugs. They also sell braided chair pads, stair runners, and stair treads.

Country Braid House is located at 462 Main Street in Tilton, with a phone at 603-286-4511. They have an extensive informational website at www.countrybraidhouse.com.

Carved Slate Triptych by Michael Updike

Spring Yard & Garden Refresh Spring Yard & Garden Refresh

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

Your yard may look a little beat after a winter of snow, ice, and winds. Snow plowing multiple times likely created a few potholes in a dirt driveway, or damage or cracks in an asphalt path or driveway.

High winter winds might have torn branches from trees and scattered limbs in your yard, meaning those trees should be inspected for damage. Shrubs, even if covered last fall, may need some attention after their covers are removed. Do your windows need a good wash, and what about your home’s roof that may have endured wind and ice damage?

Letting these things slide is natural because it can seem daunting to inspect everything and spend time and money making repairs. However, to keep your home in tip-top shape and more enjoyable for the coming summer months, take a little time once the snow has gone to check for yard damage.

Says Nick Bernard of A Sharper Image Landscape, located in Alton, New Hampshire, “Now is the time to start an assessment of your yard. With the signs of warmer weather here and snow storms being over, you can safely start yard work.”

Bernard services residential and commercial properties around the Lakes Region, as well as installing beautiful patios, walkways, and veneer fireplaces to help homeowners get the most from their outdoor areas in the summer months.

Once mud season is safely over, refreshing and repairing your yard can begin. (The UNH Cooperative Extension outlines that mud season occurs when the top layer of soil thaws while deeper soils are still frozen and the water has nowhere to drain, leaving a thick layer of mud on the surface. This can occur in your lawn, garden, or gravel driveway so be cautious when using equipment, tools, and machinery in the spring. The soft upper

layer could give way and create muddy ruts that may need to be renovated or reseeded. Give soil time to drain before using heavy equipment. Mud season usually lasts a couple of weeks so be patient to avoid lawn and garden damage.)

On-site meetings to assess what needs to be done and what solutions might be available to handle the damage winter can cause to a property are the norm for Bernard. Once the snow is gone, homeowners can also make a to-do list of chores. “You can look for fallen debris, snow plow damage, and signs of animals such as moles and voles that push up through the lawn.”

He adds that as the nights get warmer, you can unwrap the burlap you covered your shrubs to protect them from harsh winter conditions.

Before beginning yard work, your list of chores might seem daunting, but you can break it into manageable tasks, tackling one issue at a time, starting with a small job and working your way up to bigger tasks. But you needn’t handle the big jobs unassisted. Some tasks might call for equipment or skills you just don’t have, such as repairing a damaged driveway or fixing a roof, and it is sensible to bring in a professional.

Help the environment by thinking about sustainable yard clean-up before starting outdoor projects. What cleaning products could damage your lawn, the ground, and perhaps your well system? What products, from a simple cleaning rag to a sophisticated cloth or mop, might be eco-friendly vs. wipes or paper towels that will end up in the trash?

Properly dispose of household hazardous waste, and check your yard storage area for old batteries, fertilizers, fuel, gas cylinders, poisons, paint, and other items that might be hazardous.

Perhaps you planted bulbs last fall, hoping for flowers to spring up the following year? Springtime warm weather is a reality these days, but you can protect flowers that may be sprouting earlier. According to information from the UNH Cooperative Extension (copyright© 2024, University of New Hampshire), “Most bulbs can come up in March and April, but early emergence is not a cause for concern. Early leaf development may be damaged by freezing temperatures but as long as the flower buds remain below ground during colder temperatures they should flower as expected. If the buds emerge and are killed by the cold, the plant will likely survive and return to flower production the following season. A thick layer of organic mulch such as leaves, pine needles, or bark mulch, applied in late fall can help insulate the bulbs and keep them from emerging prematurely.”

Prune shrubs that may have been damaged by cold, snow, and wind. Prune back to the live stems using clippers vs. electric shears to prevent a thick outer layer of growth that blocks sunlight from getting to the center of the shrub. In the springtime, prune summer-flowering shrubs before buds appear.

The lawn is always a big part of yard care, and it too can take a beating in the winter. You should consider testing the soil’s pH to determine the best lawn treatment.

But before tackling lawn work, watch for frost. Jeremy Caruso of Caruso Outdoor Maintenance explains, “People are eager to get started on yard work, and especially lawn care, and if the temperature rises to 55 degrees, they want to thatch and aerate their lawn. But watch for frost even if you have some warm days.”

After removing any dead leaves from the surface of the lawn, you can put treatments down. Re-loam spotty areas and put seed on top.

This might be the year to start a vegetable garden, and Bernard of A Sharper Image Landscape says it depends on what you want to grow. “Pick a good sun and shade spot, decide if you prefer an in-ground or raised garden bed, learn about composting, and then you can begin planting.”

For those who want a flower garden, you might start with Hosta plantings, which Bernard says are easy to grow, but be aware deer like them, too. Daylilies are another good garden choice.

Use 50/50 loam with compost in it, Bernard advises. Put mulch on top of flowers, (if you are starting a vegetable garden, you do not need to put mulch on top of the plantings.)

Many homeowners have added attractive pavers or other stonework pathways or areas of their driveway. Bernard explains that a pressure washer can remove any dirt and mildew that may have formed on stone pathways or a patio. “If your stonework is cracked, it is best to call in a professional and have them assess the problem and suggest what needs to be done to fix it,” Bernard says.

The outdoor lover/homeowner may want to try something eye-catching and enjoyable, such as a fountain or small pool. “It takes some knowledge, “ Bernard suggests, “You can try to do it on your own, but it is a bit more complicated to install and needs the right type of liner.”

As well as maintaining your current yard, it could be time to add a new feature to your property. A repaired or new deck is a popular choice. Decks are standard in the Lakes Region, and

they provide outdoor entertaining areas, or a handy area to tie up your boat when the deck is placed over the water.

Decking options are varied. When considering a new deck, think about how you will use it, and what may make your enjoyment better. Utilize this as a guide to upgrading your existing deck or new deck installation. It is important to design the deck with your goals in mind. Consider the furniture you will be using, as well as circulation patterns through the deck. For example, think of traffic flow to avoid stepping over your favorite chair to get to the grill. These days, synthetic materials are popular. They last longer and provide many color options. And most synthetic materials can feel like real wood.

If you already have a deck, inspect it annually for signs of chipping or worn paint and stain, rot, or damage. Make repairs as early as possible.

A deck can take a beating and the exposure to the outdoor elements could see deck nails beginning to pop, the wood to crack and the stain to peel. Mold from pounding rain and wintertime snow can add to deck replacements.

There are many other outdoor upgrades to add to family enjoyment this summer, such as a fire pit, an outdoor stone fireplace, a new deck or patio, or other improvements. Figure out your needs, jump in, and get your yard ready for sun and fun days ahead.

(Information for this article is from Nick Bernard of A Sharper Image Landscape (find A Sharper Image Landscape on Facebook), UNH Cooperative Extension (https://extension. unh.edu), and Jeremy Caruso of Caruso Outdoor Maintenance (www.carusooutdoormaintenance.com).

New Roofs | Repairs | Inspections | Commerical Roofing

Getting the Grill Ready for Spring Fired Up and Ready to Go:

By Kathi Caldwell-Hopper

For many Lakes Region residents, grilling is a way of life throughout the year. Some barbecue die-hards are known to grill a good burger or thick, juicy steak even in a winter snowstorm! When the temperature climbs and the snow melts, the whiff of spring in the air is tinged with the smell of charcoal from the grill.

Those who love to barbecue know that winter weather can be tough on a grill. Even a grill that is covered but left on the deck is somewhat exposed to the elements. Grills stored in garages and sheds also need a tune-up for optimum performance come warmer weather.

First, decide where your grill will be set up for the summer, and make sure the spot is clean. If on a deck or patio, ensure the surface is stable. Winter weather can damage a deck, so be sure the area where your grill will rest in the coming months is in good shape.

Now it’s time for a grill check up: is there rust forming or is the bottom of the grilling plate full of ashes? Inspect and clean out any rust, ashes or, dust. If there is rust on grill plates, try to remove the rust. If that’s not possible, plan to replace the pans or plates.

At Energy Savers in Meredith, the most popular grill is the Big Green Egg. The Egg is a round-shaped barbecue that is beloved by grillers. It has many features and comes in a variety of sizes.

“We sell a lot of Eggs,” says Energy Savers owner Steve Dumais. “There are many Egg addicts out there and it comes in mini-max, small, medium, large and extra-large, and also a double X. People love Eggs because you can control the tempera-

ture so successfully. The Egg is a natural lump (no additives or flavors in it) charcoal grill that produces great barbecue results. For example, I recently cooked ribs on my Egg at 250 degrees and they slow-cooked. When they were done, they were delicious; the meat was so tender it just about fell off the bone.”

Energy Savers sells high-end propane grills such as the Solaire grill with all stainless-steel components. Due to its solid construction, it is a durable, longlasting grill.

Duane McCarter, manager of Eased Edges in Laconia, has a few tips for grill cleaning. “Use a safe grill cleaner such as a citrus-based product. For safety, check the grill to make sure small animals such as squirrels have not chewed through the lines. That is important before using the grill.

“Also, a general inspection is advised. Make sure there are no nests made by squirrels in the barbecue,” he adds. Eased Edges sells many outdoor products from sheds to gazebos to furniture, as well as wood, gas, and pellet stoves and fireplaces along

with grills.

“The most popular grills among those we sell are the pellet grills. They give a great flavor to meat, they are easy to use, and they cook great,” he adds.

Erik Snyder, manager of EM Heath Hardware in Center Harbor and Laconia, says Weber grills are big sellers at the store. “We sell gas, charcoal, and electric Weber grills, and the most popular of those is the gas-fired grill.”

Erik has some tips for those who are pulling out grills that have not been used since the last warm days of fall. “If you have not used the grill over the winter, it’s time for a good inspection and cleaning,” he advises. “Take the cooking surface off and inspect the burners. Are the holes closed-up with rust or grease? If so, you can clean them with steel wool.”

He has another interesting tip for grill cleaning. “Most people think Easy Off oven cleaner is just for indoor ovens. I use it to clean the cooking surface of my grill. It’s a great grill cleaner and it’s really helpful if I have had a big cookout and have a lot of grease and mess on the grill that needs to be cleaned.”

Snyder adds that currently popular are colored grills and flattop grills, with Weber grills continuing to be big sellers. Also popular are Traeger grills.

If browsing the internet, one can find suggestions that urge cooks to clean grill racks in an indoor self-cleaning but cleaning the racks from an outdoor grill this way is potentially hazardous. The grease and gunk that form on the grates of a grill can become combustible at the high temperatures of indoor self-cleaning ovens. There will be a lot of smoke and there just might be fire, so forego this method of grill grate cleaning. Always stick to cleaning your grill outside where you will be doing all your barbecuing.

Also, stay away from the temptation of letting your indoor dishwasher clean the greasy grates. The grease can clog a dishwasher and perhaps ruin the appliance.

A few handy tips for grill cleaning:

The onion method: When your grill retains some heat after cooking, put an onion on a fork and rub all over the hot grill bars. The onion’s water will steam-clean the grill bars and remove stuck-on food.

Try coffee! If that sounds odd, you can experiment and give this method a try. Soak the grill and utensils in coffee. It will get rid of hard-to-remove food on the grill surface. The acid in the coffee will loosen up debris that is caked on the surface.

Many people swear by vinegar for household cleaning, and you can use it to clean the grill as well. Mix vinegar and water in equal parts in a spray bottle and spray it on the grill. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, empty the bottle of the solution and refill it with only vinegar. Spray this on the grill and you will be able to clean the grill surface. You can also try baking soda vs. vinegar. Sprinkle some baking soda on the grill and clean it with water. (Don’t pour water over the grill.) Finish by scrubbing the grill grates until the grill is clean.

Beer is a great summertime beverage, and you can also give it a try to clean your grill. This method is untested, so try it at your own risk. Pour half a bottle of beer on your warm grill. Scrub the grates with newspaper or a brush. It is said it will give you a clean, shiny grill.

Before long the summer days of outdoor cooking will be upon us. Be ready this year with a clean and well-inspected grill for the best-barbecued food on the block.

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A family-owned landscaping company offering a variety of outdoor maintenance services. We provide both residential and commercial services including lawn care, irrigation, hardscapes, and more.

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With years of experience in the industry, we have honed our skills and techniques to ensure the best possible results. Whether you need lawn mowing, landscape design, tree trimming, or any other outdoor maintenance service, we've got you covered.

We believe in open communication, transparency, and delivering exceptional quality in every job we undertake.

What To Know About Reseeding Or Replanting Your Lawn

Spring marks the return of flowering plants and warm weather. And homeowners know that spring also ushers in the return of home renovation season.

Homeowners undoubtedly have an extensive list of projects on their to-do list this spring, and that may include helping their lawns and gardens recover after a long winter. Unpredictable weather, which can include drought, excessive rainfall, and everything in between, can take its toll on a lawn. In certain instances, the best solution may be planting new grass. But homeowners can consider these tips before they begin the process of reseeding or replanting their lawns.

• Scarify the lawn. Scarifying a lawn can help to create a clean slate, but the timing must be right. Various lawn and garden experts, including those at BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine, recommend scarifying in spring or early autumn. But don’t jump the gun when scarifying in spring by scarifying before the lawn has started to grow after a dormant winter. Scarify when the soil is a little wet and the grass is once again actively growing. Scarfiying can remove any lingering weeds from last season and pull up any moss that might have taken hold over the winter. Without weeds and moss to contend with, freshly planted seeds are in better position to thrive.

working with a qualified landscaping professional. Such a professional can scarify the lawn and subsequently reseed or replant new grass. The latter task is not so simple, as the lawn care experts at Scotts® note that choosing the correct seed is a vital part of reseeding or replanting a lawn. Choosing seed may sound simple, but it’s a potentially complex decision that requires knowledge of the existing grass, including when to plant it. Certain grasses are best planted in spring or early fall, while others are best planted in summer. A qualified landscaping professional can identify the existing grass and plan the seeding or planting around this important detail.

• Work with a landscaping professional. Homeowners with manageable lawns can likely scarify their own lawns with a relatively inexpensive plug-in scarifier. However, scarifying can be a strenuous physical activity, particularly for homeowners with large lawns. In such instances, homeowners can benefit from

• Prepare to water the lawn. Watering is vital to the long-term success and health of freshly planted grass seed. Scotts® urges homeowners to keep the top inch of soil consistently moist, but not soggy. That requires a daily commitment, and setting a multi-function hose nozzle or sprinkler to the mist setting once per day or more if it’s hot outside can increase the chances grass will grow in thick and strong. Scotts® recommends keeping the top two inches of the soil moist until the new grass reaches a mowing height of roughly three inches. Once that benchmark has been reached, watering frequency can be cut back to about twice per week, but now the soil should be deeply soaked instead of misted. The soaking will help roots grow deep into the soil.

Spring is a great time for homeowners in various regions to reseed or replant their lawns. With the right approach, homeowners can enjoy a full and lush lawn throughout summer. ~ Metro

For 30 years Roche Realty Group has been a recognized leader in the sale of Lakes Region real estate; it’s our specialty and has been since the beginning. Family-owned and locally operated since 1992, Roche Realty Group has consistently been recognized as a top independent real estate company in New Hampshire for all-time sales.

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