Your spring vegetable garden

If you’re new to gardening, or have been doing it for years, it comes down to three major components: planning, soil, and seeds. Then of course, dealing with the maintenance, pests, and harvest, but you can worry about that later in the season. Getting started can be the most challenging part of any new project, so here are some helpful tips to begin gardening in Michigan:

Start with a garden plan

How much space do you have to grow food? Where do you have sunlight? Whether you only have room for a few container plants or you have raised beds, it is satisfying to grow your own food or herbs. If you’re just beginning to garden, we recommend starting small and growing from there.

Plants that grow well in small spaces or containers:

• Mint, Basil, and other herbs

• Nasturtiums

• Cherry tomatoes

Most importantly, pick plants that you’re excited about that can grow in the space you have.

Good soil

The quality of your harvest is directly related to the quality of your soil. Reach out to your local landscaping or garden supply for some quality soil and compost. Keep in mind that different plants grow best in certain types of soil and acidity levels, so you may want to get your soil tested before planting.

Seeds or seedlings

Once you’ve made your plan and got the right soil, you can finally get to the fun part: planting! Choose plants that are suitable for your climate, soil, and sunlight. Some plants are suitable to sow directly in the soil once spring arrives. There are Michigan seed companies that are committed to preserving heritage varieties. Depending on your patience, you can also purchase seedlings with a little additional security in the success of your own garden. Here are a few easy to grow options:

• Radishes

• Herbs: Thyme, Basil, Rosemary, Mint

• Flowers: Zinnia, Gomphrena, Nasturtiums

• Greens: spinach, kale, chard

• Tomatoes

• Peas

• Zucchini

Starting a garden may feel like a daunting task, but it’s rewarding work! Credit: Localdifference.org

Caulking 'refresh'

Over time, the caulk that seals seams and gaps can wear out or collect dirt. Whether it’s for aesthetic or practical reasons, re-caulking a shower or bathtub is a great way to freshen up your bathroom while learning an essential home repair

Is your roof ready for spring?

Spring is finally here, and as you start the process of spring cleaning and beautifying your yard, you should take time to check how your roof handled the winter. Winter months can be hard on your home and if your roof has endured any type of damage it could lead to even greater problems in the spring.

Now is the perfect time to make sure your home is ready for a beautiful spring. There are things that you, as a homeowner, can do to ensure your roof is prepared for the spring and summer storms ahead.

Check your attic

Heating and cooling tips

Continued from page 12 or cooled air from the HVAC system.

Use a programmable thermostat

If you don’t have, installing a programmable thermostat one can go a long way in helping reduce energy use when you’re not home.

Change your filters regularly

Changing your HVAC system’s air filters once a month, or as directed by the furnace or filter manufacturer, helps ensure your system has smooth, uninterrupted air flow.

Use window treatments to help control temperature

In cooler months, harness the sun’s free warmth by keeping curtains, blinds or drapes open on south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight in. In the summer, keep window coverings closed during the day to reduce temperatures.

Local heating and cooling contractors include:

Wise Plumbing and Heating in West Branch: 989-345-0680

Colvin’s Plumbing and Heating in Hale: 989-728-5955

Grindstone Heating and Cooling in Fairview: 989-745-4099

Scanning the attic is an easy task you can do on your own. Inspect the underside of the roof deck and rafters in your attic for water stains, black marks or mold and check the insulation in your attic for mildew. Finding mold or mildew could indicate that your roof has a leak.

Trim your trees

Spring is a good time to inspect the trees around your house for branches that are weak or breaking. Any limbs that are at risk of falling onto your roof should be removed to

Chimney cleaning

Continued from page 12 creosote, soot, or another residue. Clearing out any buildup at the end of the burning season will significantly reduce the amount of odor emanating from your fireplace during the spring and summer months while increasing airflow and improving overall air quality.

Damaged flue ties and liner

Broken or damaged flue tiles, a cracked chimney liner, a warped damper, and any other inconsistencies in the interior and exterior of your chimney all contribute to poor chimney performance and, in some cases, will result in a house fire.

Having your chimney inspected at the end of the burning season will alert you to problems your chimney may be experiencing and will give you enough time to get them fixed before the start of the next burning season in the fall.

Wider availability of chimney sweeps

If you’re proactive about scheduling your chimney inspection skill. avoid damage to your roof.

Clumpy, blobby caulk lines are unsightly. Laying a proper bead of caulk is an acquired skill, and you won’t learn it unless you jump in and give it a try.

Examine the shingles

Inspect your roof for shingles that look loose, cracked, curling, or missing. Depending on what they find, you might need to have some work done. It is best to let a qualified roofer make any repairs to prevent costly damage or even more extensive repairs in the future.

Inspect key areas

A roofer will check the exterior of your chimney, skylights, and plumbing vents for signs of damage and even wear boots and seals.

For your peace of mind and to avoid possible expensive future maintenance issues, calling an experienced roofer to perform a full roof inspection and maintenance is a good idea. If your roof is damaged by mother nature, look at your homeowner’s insurance policy, some policies may cover the costs of repair.

Credit: tamko.com during the spring, chances are you’re going to have a much easier time finding a chimney sweep who can accommodate your schedule.

Chimney sweeps tend to be extremely busy during the fall since most people wait to get their chimneys cleaned and inspected right before burning season begins. You can avoid the stress of the busy season altogether by scheduling your cleaning during the springtime!

Being proactive about chimney maintenance will not only keep your fireplace and chimney in good working order but will also keep your home and family safe from potentially life-threatening situations, like fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.

Give yourself the ease of mind you need to enjoy a lovely roaring fire on the very first cold day of the year by making chimney maintenance a priority this spring season!

Local chimney sweep:

American Chimney: 989-239-8754