Spring Home & Garden

Spring Home & Garden

• Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017 — PAGE 1C

May 18, 2017 •Special Section C

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PAGE 2C — • Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017

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• Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017 — PAGE 3C

Home & Garden Gardens and Plants

How to keep animals out of your garden (MS) — Many gardeners understand the frustration that stems from seeing a garden destroyed by wildlife.

While protecting wildlife is a cause that’s near and dear to many gardening enthusiasts, even the most ardent wildlife supporter does not want to see his or her garden trampled, eaten or adversely affected by animals.

Safeguarding gardens from local wildlife can require some trial and error. Animals may find ways to circumvent gardeners’ initial efforts to protect their gardens, but the following methods might just do the trick the first time around.

• Erect physical barriers around gardens. Barriers may not be gardeners’ first choices, as some people feel barriers such as wire cages or mesh coverings make it more difficult to tend to gardens and rob gardens of some of their aesthetic appeal. But coverings and wire cages can effectively prevent wildlife from trampling or eating plants while still allowing the gardens to get adequate sunlight. Make sure barriers extend to the ground so animals cannot access gardens by entering beneath the barricades.

• Fight intruders with odor. Stray cats may mistake gardens for litter boxes and enter them to relieve themselves. Preventing such intrusions can be as simple as placing items around the garden to reduce the likelihood that gardens will be mistaken for litter boxes.

Peels from oranges and lemons or coffee grounds can

be placed in the garden and can emit odors strong enough to deter cats.

• Install motion detecting lights around gardens. Motion detection technology might be enough to deter nocturnal wildlife from trampling or eating gardens.

Animals might be spooked and run away when lights suddenly turn on. A similar approach can be taken using noise instead of lights. Gardeners who hope to avoid erecting barriers around their gardens can put up posts instead, attaching aluminum cans or wind chimes to the posts that will make noise when animals come near. Much like light, noise can be enough to deter animals.

• Consider raised garden beds. When small critters, such as moles, are the main problem, then raised garden beds with wood or plastic bottoms and sides can be enough to safeguard gardens. Raised garden beds might not be accessible to small critters, though such beds likely won’t deter larger animals from getting into gardens that are not barricaded.

• Erect fencing around the yard. Though fencing is expensive, fencing in a backyard or side yard where gardens are located can deter wildlife big and small from trampling or eating gardens.

(MS) — Gardens add visual appeal to a yard, but Wildlife is worth protecting, but gardeners must also gardens also can appeal to individuals’ senses of take steps to protect their gardens from animals looksmell, taste, touch, and sound. Gardeners who want ing for something to eat. to create gardens that appeal to various senses can do so in the following ways.

SIGHT Aesthetic appeal is one of the most sought-after benefits of gardening. However, many homeowners put in so much effort planting for one particular season that they may not give thought to ensuring the garden looks vibrant no matter the time of year.

Gardeners can research planting zones to find plants that will blossom at different times of the year so they can enjoy impressive, aesthetically appealing gardens year-round. Spring bulbs can bloom early on, while annual and perennial summer favorites will thrive under the summer sun. Beautyberry and caryopteris will fill out in the autumn, while holly or mahonia can look lovely in the winter.

SMELL Gardeners can dot their landscapes with aromatic trees, shrubs and flowers that will make stepping out into the garden that much more special. Some of the more fragrant plants include gardenia, dianthus, calendula, lavender, and jasmine. Shrubs such as fragrant pineapple broom, Anne Russell viburnum and Christmas box can add fragrance as well.

SOUND The lively sounds of the garden are created by the

Design your garden for all senses wildlife that come to pollinate and enjoy the environment gardeners have created. By choosing indigenous plants, gardeners can be sure that insects and small critters will seek refuge within the foliage.

Songbirds also will add character to a yard. The Audubon Society suggests including a water source and a songbird border of shrubs along your property’s edge. Provide food sources and make sure they are located a fair distance from the main action of the yard so as not to scare off birds. Wait for musical chickadees, goldfinches, orioles, and cardinals to arrive and enjoy the accommodations.

TASTE Gardeners can expand their gardens to include fruit-bearing trees and rows of vegetables. Produce can be harvested from early spring through late fall depending on the crops planted.

TOUCH Apart from including trees and shrubs of various textures in the garden, look for other ways to stimulate a tactile response. Water features add relaxing sound and beauty. Stones, moss, mulch, and other accents have varied textures that can stimulate the sense of touch in various ways. Don’t forget to include a sitting area so that you can immerse yourself fully in the garden.

Go beyond visual appeal when designing a garden.

When gardeners tap into all five senses, they can enjoy their landscapes even more than they already do.

Planting trees correctly is easily done, and the effects will last forever

By LEONARD PERRY that are growing around the base of the trunk and, as Horticulture Professor Emeritus they grow, basically end up strangling the tree over University of Vermont time. They are a sign of poor culture in the nursery.

Yes, there are right and wrong ways to plant a tree.

When digging the planting hole, measure the width By following correct planting practices, you can ensure trees will avoid a slow decline and possible death from several causes. This is especially important for trees, which can be a large, long-lasting, and worthwhile landscape investment.

Choose the right tree for the right site, not just a tree you like. This means that it will be cold hardy in your area. It also means that it will be adaptable to your soils and site. A sugar maple near pavement and buildings may dry out with leaves turning brown, or show salt injury if near roads. A pine tree will grow poorly in heavy clay soil.

Consider trees for their function. Perhaps it is just the beauty of a spring crabapple in bloom, and the fall fruits it produces for birds. Native trees provide the thousands of insects that birds feed upon. Picking fresh fruits from your trees provides incredible taste and nutrition, plus saves money over buying them. Of course trees can be used for windbreaks and summer shade.

Choose a healthy tree. This is one that has a good amount of roots in proportion to the tops. Beware of trees that have been recently dug from the wild with little or no preparation prior to digging. Often you get what you pay for. Obviously check for signs of leaf injury from pests or diseases, or trunk damage from mishandling.

Local nurseries with trained professionals are your best bet usually for buying healthy and appropriate trees.

Beware of trees sold in many large national chain stores. These usually have been grown in distant areas, and may not be acclimated to our area. I have found ones at such stores with few roots, the pots containing stones to hold the plants upright. If in doubt, gently pull the plant out of the pot and look at the roots.

If non-existent, too few roots, too small pot and root size for the plant top, or the plant is pot-bound, keep looking.

Particularly early in the season, before trees are leafed-out or in bloom, it is hard to tell if they are labeled properly. One time I saw a tree labeled as a crabapple at a chain store, only to see a few weeks later when leaves were out that it instead was a non-hardy peach tree!

If you get home with a balled and burlapped tree and, once unwrapped, see girdling roots, either take the tree back or talk with your source. Girdling roots are those

of the root mass (root ball) and remove sod in an area three to five times the diameter of the root ball. Loosen this soil to a depth of about a foot, such as with a spading fork. Then dig a hole in the center of this area about a foot wider than the root ball.

If planting a potted tree, of course remove the pot. If a fiber pot, you can cut it off with pruners or a knife. If planting a balled and burlapped tree, remove any strings holding the burlap, once the plant is in the hole. Remove any wire with wire cutters. Even though burlap will decompose over time, it won’t if it’s treated. Best is to remove any burlap, again once the plant is in the hole, cutting it off. If the soil on the outside of the root ball is compacted or roots are crowded, tease them loose with pruners or similar hand tool such as a planting knife. Cut away any roots circling the surface around the trunk.

Planting depth is one of the most important factors in planting. Planting a tree too deep can kill it. Figure the depth to plant by pulling any soil away from the trunk. What you are looking for is the root collar or root flare — the bulge just above the root system where the roots begin to branch away from the trunk.

This root flare should be just above the soil surface, the base of the root flare at the soil surface.

This often may not be the top of the root ball, hence the need to make sure.

Measure from the base of the root ball to the base of the root flare. This is the depth to plant.

Don’t dig the hole deeper, as some instructions in the past or older books may indicate. Either the tree will be too deep to start or, if you backfill with soil, the tree will settle lower and end up too deep.

Don’t mistake the root flare with the graft union on some trees, particularly many fruit trees. This is the point at which two different trees are spliced together, the desired tree on an “understock” to provide traits such as vigor and hardiness. If you suspect a graft union, but aren’t sure, again check with your source or a local nursery with trained professionals. A graft union will resemble a swelling or bump on the stem, compared to the flared base of a standard tree trunk. Plant grafted trees with the graft union twoto four-inches above the soil surface.

Absence of a root flare near the soil surface is a sign the structural roots are too deep and need to

be planted nearer to the surface. Structural roots are the large woody roots from which all the finer roots branch.

Measured about four inches from the trunk, these should be no more than three inches deep. You can find these by probing with a long thin object. Many nursery trees have few structural roots, and these may be much deeper than three inches in the root ball.

Another misconception from the past is that you should amend the backfill soil. This promotes roots staying in the better environment you’ve created in the planting hole. This in turn promotes girdling roots. The recommendation now is not to amend the backfill soil, choosing the right tree for the right soil instead. Amend only if the soil is very poor, such as severely disturbed soils with rubble from construction.

If you have removed soil from the trunk base to expose the root flare, this trunk tissue may be more susceptible to cold or sun injury. If such is the case, replace with a mulch but do not mulch too deep. This is another cause of tree injury, and is often referred to as “volcano mulching” from its appearance. If you haven’t excavated near the trunk, keep mulch away from it.

Only mulch about two inches deep, uniformly around the planting area.

When planting, you may create a shallow basin away from the trunk to hold water, and water well. Keep the tree watered well for the first season if there isn’t sufficient rain. It is better to water deeply, less often such as once a week, than just a little every day. If it is difficult to get water to trees, you can use a tree watering bag or “donut” ring that you fill with water, fit around the tree, and they release water slowly. You often see these in commercial landscapes, and can find them for sale at complete garden stores or online.

Other practices to follow for a healthy tree:

• Don’t fertilize at planting time.

• Prune only injured branches. Don’t paint tree wounds.

• Remove any tree wrap or tape around trunks. This only should be used for protection in transit.

• Don’t stake trees unless necessary in very windy areas, or to prevent vandalism. If you do stake, use sturdy stakes and attach the tree with wide strapping or tree roping.

Normal twine can cut into the tree bark.

PAGE 4C — • Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017

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• Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017 — PAGE 5C

Home & Garden Gardens and Plants

Shade-tolerant plants will thrive in darker woodland areas (MS) — Plants need sunlight to thrive and grow, but some need less sunlight than others. People who find their landscapes are less supportive to sun-loving plants can choose from a variety of shade-tolerant plants, shrubs and trees.

Shade tolerance refers to a plant’s ability to withstand low levels of light. Certain plants have adapted this feature to survive in the wild. Plants that grow at the base of forest floors, for example, will get less sunlight than others outside of the tree canopy. Such adaptations enable a wide variety of foliage to grow even though they are not exposed to much sunlight.

While sun-loving plants often have broad leaves and expend significant energy to capture sunlight for photosynthesis, shade-tolerant plants expend less energy and tend to be more efficient consumers of soil nutrients and sunlight.

Penn State Extension’s Plant and Pests division says the amount of shade a plant is growing under will directly affect the density of the foliage and the plant’s flowering and fruiting characteristics. Blending shade-tolerant

plants into the landscape can be an effective use of space.

Before choosing plants for an existing landscape, it’s important to assess the level of shade or sun the plants will receive.

• Heavy shade: Heavy shade is when no direct sunlight reaches a plant. This occurs at the base of northern-facing walls or beneath thick tree canopies.

• Full sun: Areas that receive full sun enjoy direct sunlight between six and eight hours per day.

• Moderate shade: These sites have reflected sunlight that may come off of water features.

• Light shade: Plants in these areas will get partially filtered or dappled sunlight.

Once homeowners understand which type of shade they are dealing with, they can then visit plant nurseries and select their plants. Most greenery comes with care instructions that include recommendations regarding the amount of shade/sunlight the plant will need to do well. If further assistance is needed, a knowledgeable employee can make suggestions based on landscape needs.

Those who are looking for some preliminary guidance

when it comes to selecting shade-tolerant shrubs, plants or trees can consult the following list.

• Bleeding heart: Bleeding heart, or Dicentra spectabilis, is typically found in woodlands. It’s a perennial in the poppy family that produces mounded foliage and arching vine-like stems of heart-shaped flowers in the spring.

• Amethyst flower: Browallia hybrids offer star-shaped blooms of blue and violet. These plants will billow out of hanging baskets or containers, and they prefer warm shade or filtered sunlight.

• Coleus: The coleus, Solenostemon scutellarioides, is another perennial that can have a variety of different leaf colors and striations.

• Witch hazels: These are a genus in the family Hamamelidacea, which has four different species in North America. This shrub or small tree features arching

branches with dense, multi-stemmed clumps. Witch hazel produces flowers in the late autumn when most other plants are sparse.

• Bayberry: Myrica pensylvanica can grow in partial shade as a hedge or natural property divider. The leaves of this shrub are aromatic when crushed. The shrub will produce tiny, gray/white fruits in late summer.

• English Ivy: Also known as Hedera helix, this trailing plant is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant. It will spread easily and can become invasive.

Those searching for shade-tolerant trees can choose among Sugar maple, Black alder, Flowering dogwood, and White spruce, among others.

Shade-tolerant plants can make welcome additions to the landscape, offering greenery and color in the darker areas of a property.

Give young trees a healthier start for life (MS) — More sunlight and warm temperatures frequently inspire homeowners to spend more time in the great outdoors during spring and summer.

Outdoor projects often top homeowners’ to-do lists in spring and summer, with gardens and landscapes taking center stage. Planting more trees around the yard is one popular project that can improve property value and benefit the environment.

WHY PLANT TREES? There are plenty of reasons to plant trees. Trees provide a natural form of shade, reducing air temperature by blocking the sun’s rays. This can reduce reliance on air conditioning systems and make it more comfortable to spend time outdoors during the summer.

North Carolina State University College of Agriculture & Life Sciences says trees absorb and block noise and reduce glare. They also can trap dust, pollen and smoke. Trees also absorb carbon dioxide and potentially harmful gasses from the air. One large tree can supply a day’s worth of oxygen for as many as four people, while also storing 13 pounds of carbon per year.

roots to grow and expand. Better Homes and Gardens experts say to prepare a hole that is two to three times as wide as the root ball of the tree. Treat the root ball gently. If the roots are wrapped in burlap, remove the burlap or push it to the bottom of the hole.

Backfill the hole with soil and check that the tree is straight. Stake the tree to help it stay upright and straight until the roots anchor it more effectively. A layer of mulch around the base of the tree can prevent weeds and reduce water loss. Water daily for several weeks until the roots have fanned out.

It’s best to leave trees be for the first growing season, only removing broken or diseased limbs. Resist pruning and shaping until the tree has survived its first growing season.

GETTING STARTED Visit a garden center or nursery and select a tree that will be hardy in your planting zone. Choosing native trees can increases the likelihood that the new tree will adapt to its surroundings. Also, inspect trees to determine if they’re healthy before taking them home. Look for evidence of root girdling, which occurs when the roots circle around the perimeter of the container and surround the trunk.

Trees should not have any dead or dormant branches.

The DIY Network suggests locating the tree where it can thrive. This means selecting a spot that can make it easier for the tree to grow tall and wide. Avoid planting near the house, where roots can crack concrete or asphalt, and always plant away from underground pipes.

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PAGE 6C — • Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017

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Home & Garden Lawns

Weed through problem lawn problems (MS) — Millions of acres across North America are devoted to lush, green lawns. According to Duke University’s Nicholas School of the Environment, lawns take up 40.5 million acres and individuals spend $30 billion on average for lawn and garden upkeep in the United States alone. People certainly love their lawns and often wonder if those lawns are best left in the hands of professionals.

The National Gardening Association states that 72 percent of American households do some work in their yards. However, a growing number of homeowners also hire others to make their lawns look pristine. Homeowners who want to leave lawncare to the professionals can consider the following factors as they search for a company that best suits their needs.

• Work with a licensed and insured company. Lawncare services that are licensed and insured provide more peace of mind to homeowners than the alternatives. Should an injury occur on your property while work is being done, an insured business will be able to take care of it and you won’t be liable.

• Ask about membership in a professional or trade organization. Businesses that belong to an organization invest in continually learning about the evolution of lawncare.

This increases the likelihood that member companies will be up-to-date regarding the latest, most environmentally friendly lawncare techniques. Participation in a trade organization also may indicate education in the landscaping field.

• Research reviews before hiring. Although public reviews may not paint the entire picture and they often reflect only the very positive or very negative experiences previous customers have had with a given business, they can provide an idea of how a lawncare company interacts with its customers. Prospective customers who contact the Better Business Bureau may learn if there have been any glaring complaints against a particular contractor.

• Find out which services are offered. Ask each business what services they provide. While nearly every lawncare contractor will mow the lawn and trim shrubs, many homeowners prefer companies that can adapt when the yard needs a change. This may include pest treatments, fertilization, aeration, and seasonal cleanups.

• Look for a company that’s organized and connected. Customer service should be a factor when choosing a lawncare service. You want to be able to reach the company promptly.

A company that responds quickly is ideal, especially if you need to change a service or need to inquire about additional or emergency work.

Shopping for a lawncare service can take time and effort, but the results will be well worth it when homeowners have lawns and landscapes that make their neighbors green with envy.

How to:

Treat lawns during drought or dry periods (MS) — “Drought” can be a four-letter word to many lawncare enthusiasts. Homeowners who put in the hours and hard work to create beautiful, lush lawns can see the fruits of all their labor gradually disappear when drought sets in. That can be both frustrating to homeowners and detrimental to long-term lawn health.

Treating lawns during drought or dry periods can be tricky, as some homeowners may be forced to adhere to water restrictions established by their local governments.

Still, there are some ways to obey the law and still help lawns withstand drought and dry periods.

• Postpone fertilizer applications. Fertilizers are designed to help grass grow, but growing grass needs water it won’t have access to when water restrictions have been put in place. If a lawn needs to be fertilized during drought or dry periods, homeowners should consult with lawncare professionals, who may have experience applying fertilizer during drought. Professionals also may have access to more fertilizing products than homeowners will find at nearby lawn and garden centers.

• Pull weeds by hand instead of applying herbicides.

Herbicides are substances used to destroy unwanted vegetation, such as weeds. When applied during droughts or dry periods, such products can make it harder for grass to overcome weeds. Instead of applying herbicides during drought or dry periods, pull weeds by hand. Doing so can

address a weed problem without harming the grass.

• Water early. Water restrictions might not completely deny homeowners the right to water their lawns. Rather, such regulations restrict how much water homeowners can use to treat their lawns during drought or dry periods. Watering early, ideally between the hours of 4 a.m. and 8 a.m., ensures as little water as possible will be lost to evaporation and as much as possible will find its way onto the grass and into the soil. During periods of drought, temperatures tend to be at their highest in midto late-afternoon, so change automatic sprinkler timers if they are set to water during these hours.

• Adjust lawnmower blade height. Grass grows more slowly during drought or dry periods. As a result, homeowners won’t need to mow as often during such times as they would when conditions are more favorable. But lawns may still need to be mowed during drought. When mowing, leave grass on the longer side. Mowing stresses grass, which is already under considerable stress during drought. By setting mower blades to cut no more than one-third of the leaf blade at a time, homeowners can encourage roots to grow deeper. Deep roots help the grass combat the effects of drought.

Drought and dry periods need not ruin homeowners’ lush lawns. But lawn care enthusiasts will have to alter their lawn care routines when conditions are dry.

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• Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017 — PAGE 7C

Home & Garden

Pests and Pollinators Important pollinators go from bees to butterflies and beyond

By ANNIE WHITE University of Vermont Research Assistant and LEONARD PERRY UVM Horticulture Professor Emeritus Interest in gardening to support pollinators is at an all-time high. Books and websites are brimming with information about the importance of pollinators, as well as how to create gardens and landscapes rich with the floral resources that pollinators need. However, discussions about the full breadth of pollinators attracted to pollinator gardens are harder to find. Monarch butterflies and honeybees get a lot of attention but, in fact, they are just two of the thousands of species of pollinators in the U.S. that benefit from pollinator-friendly landscapes.

Bees are by far the most important pollinators worldwide, visiting and pollinating flowers more frequently than other pollinator groups. Bees also are very effective pollinators, helping to move pollen from one flower to another, fertilizing the plant. They feed on flower pollen and nectar during all stages of their life. Most female adult bees have specialized pollen-collecting structures and spend much of their time collecting pollen from flowers to feed their young. Furthermore, bees are covered in a dense coat of feathery hairs that effectively catch and carry pollen grains.

There are nearly 20,000 bee species in the world, but just one species, the European honeybee, lives in hives

and is managed commercially by humans. We rely on honeybees to pollinate large crops like almonds, apples, and blueberries and, of course, to make honey. In addition to the flowers of fruits and vegetables, honeybees favor nectar- and pollen-rich flowers like milkweeds (Asclepias spp.), hyssops (Agastache spp.), and clovers (Trifolium spp.).

Here, in North America, we have about 4,000 species of wild bees. They don’t make honey like the honeybee, but they are extremely important for the pollination of food crops and wild plants. Among the most recognizable of our wild bees and the most proficient pollinator is the bumblebee (Bombus spp.). Bumblebees use buzz pollination, also known as sonication, to release pollen from a flower’s anthers. If you watch a bumblebee pollinating a tomato flower, you will see the bee clinging to the anthers with their mouthparts or forelegs and vibrating their flight muscles to release the pollen.

Bumblebees are big and strong, allowing them to pry their way inside flowers such as wild indigo (Baptisiaspp.), great blue lobelia (Lobelia siphilitica), and bottled gentian (Gentiana andrewsii), which other pollinators have difficulty penetrating.

Many other wild bee groups, large and small, can be seen foraging on the pollen and nectar of flowers. You might see sweat bees, who owe their name to their tendency to gently lap the salty sweat off gardeners while

they work. Some sweat bees have eye-catching metallic green bodies. Like most small wild bees, they have a preference for small flowers, such as yarrow (Achillea spp.), or composite flowers comprised of many tiny florets, such as purple coneflowers (Echinacea purpurea).

Leafcutter bees are just one more group of wild bee that is easily spotted in the garden. They are unique in several ways. Unlike most bees that carry pollen on their hind legs, leafcutter bees carry pollen in a band of hairs on the underside of their abdomen. Secondly, as their name implies, leafcutter bees cut pieces of leaves to line their nests. The plant material provides waterproofing and antimicrobial properties. You will find leafcutter bees feeding on a variety of flowers including tickseed (Coreopsis spp.) and black-eyed susan (Rudbeckia spp.) You also will find them building nests in old hollowed stems of sumac, elderberry, and raspberry.

Behind bees, flies are the second-most frequent visitors to flowers, with the most common of all flies being syrphid flies. Nearly all of the 6,000 species of syrphid fly adults worldwide consume nectar, and most species also consume pollen. Some stingless syrphid flies mimic the appearance of stinging bees and wasps with black, white, and yellow markings.

Butterflies and moths are eye-catching and fun to see in the garden, but they are weak pollinators compared to other insects. With few exceptions, butterflies and moths

are nectarivorous, meaning they only consume nectar and no pollen. Therefore, any movement of pollen by butterflies and moths is an involuntary outcome of their nectar feeding. Butterflies and moths have a long sucking mouthpart, called a proboscis, to suck up nectar. It is particularly useful for reaching the nectar in long tubular flowers like beebalm (Monarda spp.). Butterflies also prefer to forage on composite flowers such as coneflowers (Echinacea spp.) and asters (Symphyotrichum spp.), which provide a nice surface to rest on while they feed. Many moths and butterflies also use plants as hosts for rearing their young. The monarch butterfly is an example of a specialist butterfly that uses a single plant genus, milkweeds (Asclepias spp.), as a host plant.

A huge diversity of less-frequent pollinator visitors are also observed in pollinator gardens, including beetles, parasitoids and predatory wasps (which, believe it or not, are great insects to have as they are nature’s control agents for pests we don’t want), ants, and hummingbirds.

By planting a diversity of flowering plants that vary in size, shape, color, and bloom time, you will be sure to attract an amazing diversity of pollinators to your garden.

Editor’s note: Distribution of this release is made possible by University of Vermont and Green Works—the Vermont Nursery and Landscape Association. Learn more of Annie’s PhD research and design services at pollinatorgardens.org.

(MS) — Although it’s virtually impossible to count them, insects are the most diverse group of organisms on the planet. Nine hundred thousand different kinds of insects are known to exist. At any given time, it is estimated that there are around 10 quintillion individual insects living.

Gardeners grow frustrated when seeing their gardens infested with insects. In an effort to restore their gardens, homeowners might be tempted to eradicate any bug that moves in their yards. But gardeners would be wise to first learn which insects are hurting their gardens and which can actually help gardens in the long run.

HARMFUL Certain insects can be dangerous to animals and plants.

The following are a handful of insects that can threaten the

vitality of gardens.

• Aphids: These insects suck on the juice needed to sustain plants, particularly when they congregate.

• Bald-faced hornet: Hornets tend to be an aggressive species that can sting repeatedly. Should you find a nest near an entertaining space or garden, it can cause trouble.

• Carpenter ants: These ants will burrow into wood causing damage. They may compromise any wooden structure in and around a home.

• Locusts: Various species of locust can damage plants and crops due to their voracious appetites.

• Treehoppers: These small, green insects mimic the look of leaves, and their appetites can affect crops and gardens.

• Red pavement ant: As they feed on all manner of human food, these ants can quickly overtake areas with their

staggering numbers and deliver painful bites.

• Grasshoppers: Certain grasshoppers, like the redlegged grasshopper, can decimate food crops and transfer parasites to birds when eaten as prey.

• Caterpillars: Many caterpillars, the precursor to adult moths, will feed constantly on leaves, stems and other parts of plants. The tobacco hornworm moth caterpillar can damage potato and tomato plants.

HELPFUL Plants depend on insects to transfer pollen as they forage, and many insects are quite beneficial to have around.

While some pollinate, others are predators of other pests.

• Antlion: A foe of ants, they’ll help eat and control ant populations and pollinate flowers. They pose no threat to humans, either.

• Big dipper firefly: These colorful insects feast on earthworms, slugs and snails during the larval stage. Fireflies add drama to evening gardens with their twinkling lights.

• Garden spiders: Although some spiders can be venomous, many are quite handy to have around the garden.

They’ll help control pest populations that can damage plants and crops.

• Dragonflies: These aerial artists that zip around the yard are consuming smaller insects that would otherwise pester plants and humans.

• Blue-winged wasp: This wasp attacks the larvae of Japanese beetles, helping to control beetle populations.

• Bees and butterflies: Butterflies and bees are some of the best pollinators out there, and each can add whimsy to gardens.

Know the difference between helpful insects and harmful insects

PAGE 8C — • Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017

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Home & Garden Improvement Projects

Find the right replacement windows (MS) — Replacing old windows is often a worthwhile investment for homeowners. Energy-efficient windows can prevent heating and cooling loss and keep homes more comfortable throughout the year. Such windows also can improve a home’s resale value, proving a good return on investment for homeowners who want to upgrade their homes before putting them on the market.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners might find it more cost-effective to replace very old and/or inefficient windows to improve their energy efficiency. Such an upgrade can save homeowners substantial amounts of money on heating and cooling costs.

Window replacement projects can be costly, so it pays to get the job right the first time. Before beginning a window replacement project, homeowners should research which windows will meet their specific needs, learning the subtleties between finishes and features, as well as comparing prices for the windows and installation.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME OF YEAR The best time of year to plan window replacement is when the weather will be warm, ideally in the spring or early summer. However, homeowners do not want conditions to be too warm, a s

each room where new windows will be installed will temporarily be exposed to the elements. Furthermore, caulk adheres better in warmer weather and will dispense easily.

CONSIDER AVAILABLE FEATURES When replacing windows, homeowners may want to install the same style windows they currently have. But the problems that led to the need to replace windows may still exist even when new windows are installed. When replacing windows, consider energy performance ratings based on the locations of the windows in the house. To make sure they make the most educated decision, homeowners can investigate the solar heat gain coefficient, U-factor, visible transmittance and light-to-solar gain. Explanations of these ratings are available at Energy.gov.

DON’T IGNORE MAINTENANCE NEEDS Maintenance costs involved with cleaning, repairs and painting can add up. When shopping for windows, consider the amount of maintenance they will need. Wood-framed windows may require more upkeep than aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl. Also, consider if certain window types, such as double-hung windows, casement windows, awning windows, or slider windows, would be practical.

KEEP HOME STYLE IN MIND A poor match between windows and the style of the home can produce unwanted changes in the appearance of the home. Replacement windows should match the style and appearance desired.

EXPECT MINIMAL DISRUPTION When homeowners hire professionals who are good at their craft, window replacement projects should not be a terrible inconvenience. According to American Window Products, Inc., seasoned professionals will be able to complete a replacement window upgrade in a short amount of time depending on the size of the home and the number of windows being replaced.

Replacing windows can be a costly task, but one that will provide a more energy efficient home that can help homeowners save money in the long run.

Pitch in and save money

(MS) — Home improvement projects can be expensive. While the size and complexity of a project will affect how expensive the project is, homeowners can expect to shell out a pretty penny when they renovate or remodel areas of their home.

According to HomeAdvisor, an online resource for homeowners looking to connect with home improvement, maintenance and repair professionals, the average bathroom remodeling project costs $9,348, while the average home addition costs slightly less than $41,000.

But renovation-minded homeowners need not reconsider their commitment to remodeling, as there are various ways to cut the costs associated with home improvement projects.

One such way is for homeowners to pitch in and do some of the work themselves. Calculating labor costs can be difficult, as such costs can vary greatly depending on the project, the contractor and the amount of hired help that contractor intends to employ. However, some estimates suggest labor will account for anywhere from 25 to 50 percent of the overall cost of the project. So it’s no surprise that homeowners can save themselves substantial amounts of money by doing some of the work themselves.

Homeowners who intend to do some of the labor themselves should discuss this plan with contractors during the vetting process. Before hiring a contractor, make sure homeowners’ expected labor contributions are clearly defined in the contract.

While it’s best to leave the most complicated parts of a project to the professionals, homeowners can pitch in

during the following phases.

• Demolition: Demolition involves more than picking up a sledgehammer and swinging away. Some demolition projects are best left to the pros. For example, any projects that involve exposure to hazardous materials are risky and therefore best left to experienced laborers.

However, many homeowners are capable of safely and effectively pulling cabinets from walls, removing flooring or knocking down drywall. Homeowners unsure of how to approach demolition tasks can ask their contractors to demonstrate the proper technique so the demolition is done right and on time.

• Salvage: Removing debris and items that will no longer be needed once the renovation is complete is another way homeowners can pitch in. Homeowners remodeling their kitchens may be replacing their existing stoves and refrigerators and hoping to donate these items. In such instances, driving the items to the donation site or arranging for them to be picked up rather than taken off the premises by the contractor or his employees can cut labor costs, as it allows laborers to keep working toward the end goal rather than requiring them to leave the work site to drop unwanted items off.

• Cleanup: Homeowners also can save costs by cleaning up after the contractors at the end of each workday.

Speak with the contractor about cleaning up the site each day, asking him or her what can be discarded and what must remain on-site.

Home improvements are costly. But homeowners who are capable of pitching in can greatly reduce the overall cost of their next renovation project.

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PAGE 10C — • Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017

Home & Garden Grilling

Keep chicken from sticking to the grill (MS) — According to the grill manufacturer Weber, the keys to grilling chicken are temperature and time. But even cooks who have paid close attention to the temperature of their grills and the time their chicken spends over a hot flame have no doubt fallen victim to chicken that sticks to the grill.

This can affect the quality of a meal and make postgrilling cleanup that much more difficult. To prevent sticking, Weber advises cooks to put a light coating of olive oil and seasoning directly on the chicken

prior to putting it on the grill. Once the chicken has been dressed, make sure the grill temperature remains around 425 F to 450 F. Chicken will stick to a grill if the temperature is too high, so pay close attention to the temperature at all times.

Once the chicken has been placed on the grill, allow each side to cook for roughly 4.5 minutes. If the chicken is difficult to flip or remove from the grill, close the lid and allow it to cook for one additional minute.

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(MS) — People rely on indoor and outdoor grills to prepare foods all year long. Not only can menu items made on the grill taste delicious, but they also may be healthier than foods cooked via other methods. When done correctly, grilling is a versatile way to cook tasty foods relatively quickly.

One of the challenges of cooking over high, open heat is the difficulty in determining just how long to keep foods over the flame. Take them off too soon and they may be undercooked. Wait too long and items may be dry and charred. Use these tips to make grilling easy and safe.

• Preheat and prepare the grill Be sure to preheat the grill to between 400 F and 500 F. Use a nonstick spray on the grates while the grill is heating. This way foods will not stick and create a mess that will ultimately require considerable cleaning.

• Buy a meat thermometer One of the easiest ways to take the guesswork out of grilling is to use a meat thermometer. By knowing internal temperatures in a few seconds, grillmasters can have juicy foods that are cooked to the correct temperature so foodborne illnesses do not become a problem. Cooking by sight is inaccurate, as the outside of the food may look well done even though the inside is still pink. Thermometers allow cooks to avoid cutting open foods to check doneness, spilling out tasty juices in the process.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture advises on minimal internal temperatures for meats and poultry (https:// www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safetyeducation/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/safefood-handling/safe-minimum-internal-temperaturechart/ct_index). Keep in mind that food continues to cook when it is taken off the grill. Therefore, removing a few minutes before it has reached a certain temperature is ideal.

• Fish is fast Don’t avoid grilling fish because of its delicacy. Using wood planks or any of the newer grilling gadgets available can keep flaky fish from falling through the grates. Plus, fish is an ideal go-to when one is really short on cooking time. If necessary, experiment with varieties of fish that are durable, such as salmon or tuna.

• Leave an empty spot Have an unheated area of the grill or one that is set to a low temperature so there is somewhere to move food if a flare-up occurs or if something is cooking too fast.

This is also a good spot to finish foods that may need a little more time over indirect heat — such as burgers that require melted cheese.

• Use sauce at the end Avoid charring foods by using sugary sauces toward the end of cooking. Otherwise, the sauce can burn quickly and contribute to potentially carcinogenic char.

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• Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017 — PAGE 11C

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Home & Garden Energy

Use less energy in warm weather (MS) — The temperature is rising, and that can be a good thing for those people who love long days of outdoor recreational activities. Sometimes, though, there can be too much of a good thing, and consistently hot temperatures may become uncomfortable and even dangerous.

Finding ways to keep cool without spending a fortune or using a lot of energy is challenging but possible.

1. Find your comfort zone Determine an indoor temperature that works best for the household. Keep the thermostat set as high as possible to maintain that comfort level. If you will be out most of the day, set the programmable thermostat at a higher temperature, and then lower the temperature about an hour before you plan to return home. This reduces the number of hours the air conditioner is running.

2. Keep curtains closed Draw the blinds and close curtains on south- and westfacing windows during the hottest times of the day. This prevents the interior of the home from heating up.

3. Maintain air circulation Invest in ceiling fans, which can move air through the home. This w i l l help

prevent pockets of hot air in certain spaces. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, even in homes with air conditioning, ceiling fans enable homeowners to raise the thermostats on their AC units by about 4 F with no reduction in comfort.

Attic fans can draw heat out of a home through vents, also helping to reduce indoor air temperatures. These devices can reduce reliance on air conditioners, especially on moderate days or cool nights.

4. Cook outdoors Put that backyard grill to good use. Plan meals around outdoor cooking so the ambient heat will stay outside and you will not have to turn on the oven or the stovetop.

Include side dishes, such as salads, fresh vegetables and fruits or gazpacho, that can be served cold. If you must heat something indoors, try doing so in the microwave.

5. Run appliances at night Wait until the washing machine or the dishwasher is full before turning on the cycle. Temperatures are cooler at night, and you may not notice the extra heat in the home generated by such appliances. Consult your energy bill as well. Sometimes energy rates are lower in the evening than during the peak hours of the day.

6. Line dry clothes Maximize that fresh air and warm sun by hanging freshly washed clothes to dry outdoors. This also works for quickly drying swimsuits and towels used at the pool or the beach.

7. Rely on natural light In the summertime, the sun stays out longer, so you’ll be less reliant on electric energy to keep things illuminated.

Spend more time outdoors so you can read, play or chat in the sunlight while keeping indoor lights off.

8. Determine pool filter efficiency Experiment with reducing the amount of water filtration time until you come up with an amount o f time that

still maint a i n s water sanitation. If you think your filter and pump are no longer working efficiently, consult with a pool supply retailer.

When the heat is on, learn strategies to keep homes cool and use less energy in the process.

How does solar electricity work?

MS) — Solar panels are seen more and more on roofs of residential homes and even some businesses. Due in part to more aggressive marketing by solar energy companies, as well as greater awareness by customers, solar energy has become increasingly popular in recent years.

The Solar Energy Industries Association® reports that solar energy in the United States is booming. The association offers that, since the passage of The Solar Investment Tax Credit in 2006, solar has experienced a compound annual growth rate of more than 60 percent.

While many might assume that environmental preservation is the driving force behind the growing popularity of solar energy, it’s actually the financial benefits of solar energy that are leading the way. One Block Off the Grid polled nearly 200 solar homeowners to learn more about their motivations for going solar. Roughly 75 percent would not have gone solar if there was no economic benefit to doing so. A number of people who have switched to solar say they are getting a high rate of return on the investment. The average electricity bill a person saw prior to solar energy hovered around $177 a month.

After the conversion, bills were now as low as $55.

Those who are still pondering the decision to go solar may want to know more about how it works. Although the guidelines vary depending on location and the energy company issuing the bill, here are some of the basics.

GENERATING SOLAR ELECTRICITY Solar electricity is generated through a process known as the photovoltaic affect. Sunlight shines on solar panels, which are mounted on the roof of the home or in

another prominent location. Each panel typically has between 60 to 72 solar cells strung together. These photovoltaic cells use the irradiation in sunlight to stimulate the flow of electrons in the semiconductor material, which creates direct current (or DC), electricity. Systems that directly convert the DC to alternating current (or AC), the type of power voltage used in a house, do so by way of an inverter. The inverter feeds power to the circuit board.

DEMAND AND EXCESS When the demand from a home or business is equal to the amount of solar power being generated, the system is working optimally. When solar power falls a bit short, grid power will make up the deficit. There’s also the possibility that excess electricity will be produced.

In a grid connect system, certain areas may operate with a 1:1 net metering policy, states Solar Reviews, which offers consumer reviews of solar products. This means that the utility company will credit a homeowner 1 to 1 for every kilowatt hour (kwh) produced in excess because the excess energy goes back into the grid system. This is called “back-feeding” the grid. It’s handy for powering homes at night with standard electricity at no additional cost. If the production of kwhs exceeds what is purchased from the utility each year, some utility companies will continue to credit for the excess.

Solar electricity systems are changing the way people think about energy. With the financial motivation to do so, consumers who embrace solar energy are helping the environment while also saving money.

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PAGE 12C — • Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017

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Home & Garden Improvement Projects

These tools of the home trade will make your handiwork easier

(MS) — Home renovation projects can be both exciting and tricky. Do-it-yourselfers are inspired by designs showcased in magazines, websites and their own communities.

When DIY enthusiasts see a design they like, it’s understandable that they may want to emulate these looks at home.

Remodeling is one of the larger DIY undertakings, and it goes beyond simple carpentry. Considering demolition, reconstruction, electrical, plumbing, and masonry work may be part of the DIY package, homeowners who are thinking about renovations KEEP A HANDY tool bag stocked with these basic essential items. must first stock up on the tools and other supplies of the trade. one working on a project deals with obstructed vision.

Having the right tools can mean the difference between a job well done and a job Safety glasses also provide ample eye protection.

• Extension cords: If power tools are part of the renothat needs to be redone. vation picture, extension cords can safely extend power • Crowbar or prybar: Before you can put in new conwhere it is needed. Be sure to invest in a gauge that is struction, you might have to get your hands dirty with large enough to handle the amperage of your most powsome demolition. Crowbars or prybars can be used to erful tool. pry up wood slats, remove nails or remove old decking.

• Measuring tape: The “measure twice, cut once” • Tool pouch: A tool and fastener pouch gives DIYers mantra is key to home improvements. To measure aca place other than their pockets to store fasteners and curately each and every time, no tool chest is complete hand tools. Pouches can be attached to tool belts for without a sturdy measuring tape. added storage capacity.

• Ladder varieties: Home improvements aren’t always • Stud finder: Invest in a more fool-proof method at ground level. Purchase ladders of various heights of locating studs behind drywall then knocking on the so you can safely reach various areas of the home and wall. Stud finders can provide a picture of studs, pipes avoid injury. Step stools, a step ladder and an extension and other hidden items inside an entire length of wall. ladder all have their purposes on the job.

This is essential to driving nails where they belong and • Digital inspection scope: A scope lets you see inside can also prevent sending fasteners into wires or nearby walls, floors and ceilings to find the exact location of plumbing. pipes, wires and joists. It also can be used to seek out the • Level: A level is an essential tool for everyone from source of clogged drains or anywhere you desire sight casual decorators to more involved renovators. Whether into hard-to-maneuver areas. hanging pictures or ensuring molding is parallel, levels In addition to these tools, brooms, shop-vacs, hamare must-have tools for DIYers. mers, screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers can complete a • Safety glasses: Invest in a pair of safety glasses so no DIYer’s basic toolbox.

Should you update your electrical system?

(MS) — The invisible systems in a home often are taken for granted. When such systems are working as expected, daily life moves along smoothly. However, when a system goes awry, it can negatively impact routines and may create a dangerous home environment. This is especially true when something goes wrong with a home’s electrical system.

Faulty wiring is a leading cause of residential fires. Many homeowners, particularly those who live in older homes, might be living in properties that have outdated electrical systems. The experts at Lowes ProServices state that having old wiring and/or insufficient amperage in a house can endanger residents. It also may damage appliances and make it difficult to sell a property in the future.

It can be difficult to gauge exactly when to overhaul an electrical system. Unless circuits routinely trip or lights often dim, homeowners may put off the work. But degrading wires or overextended circuitry can pose a fire risk, so it is best to address electrical systems promptly.

Home inspections may uncover electrical problems. Some homeowners may discover potential trouble while making renovations that require opening up walls or tearing them down, exposing the wires. Still other homeowners learn about electrical systems when they’re adding new, large appliances or other gadgets that consume more power than existing items. These devices may continually cause power outages in the house, such as tripping the circuit breaker or popping a fuse.

When it comes time to update the electrical system, it is always best to work with licensed and bonded electricians who have the expertise to work with electrical wiring without

getting injured. This is not a do-it-yourself type of job since it requires specialized training.

Electricians likely will recommend upgrading the electrical panel to bring more power from the utility poles into the home. This can include replacing the existing meter and circuit breaker box to allow it to handle more power or replacing items that are obsolete or dangerous.

Many older homes are only capable of handling a minimum number of amps, utilizing just a few circuits. But nowadays, when homeowners have far more electronics in their homes than they once did, increased demand on electricity can overload a circuit (all of the outlets linked on one wire).

Tripping a circuit breaker is a safety measure to prevent the wire from becoming overheated and causing a fire. However, in some old systems, the circuit breaker will not trip, and this can be problematic.

Rewiring a home is another step. Wire insulation can deteriorate over time, and new wires may be needed. This can be messy and time-consuming, but it’s a small price to pay for safety. When rewiring an electrician also may suggest new outlets. Many home building codes now require outlets with ground fault interruptors, or GFIs, in kitchens, bathrooms and other rooms exposed to moisture. Some older homes may not even have three-pronged outlets, so this will necessitate an update as well.

Electrical systems are the heart of a home, delivering power where it is needed. It is essential to keep such systems up-to-date so they can handle the power demands of everyday life.

g n i r Sp

• Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017 — PAGE 13C

Home & Garden Spring Cleaning

Create drama with bold paint colors

(MS) — Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform the look of a space. Paint colors can dramatically change the mood and the design of a home. And depending on a homeowner’s goals, paint can make a statement or blend into the background.

Many people are now looking to bold colors to make spaces stand out. But choosing a paint color can be challenging. Homeowners looking to update walls and complement decor may want to look at some of the more impactful colors that Pantone indicates will be popular for the 2017 season. Primrose Yellow, Lapis Blue, Flame, Pink Yarrow, and Greenery are some of the more eye-catching selections. Once colors are selected, consider these guidelines for using bolder colors in room designs.

• Decide how big an impact you want to make. Are you looking for color overload or just a small focal point of vivid color? Remember, using bold color doesn’t mean every wall must be lathered in that hue. Instead, select one wall to serve as an accent point and use that spot as your bold color display. Otherwise, rely on bold colors to dress up otherwise mundane areas, such as the back wall of a cupboard or moldings and trim.

• Try bold in a small space. Many people are surprised at how well bold colors work in small spaces. Powder rooms can be an ideal spot to experiment with paint colors. Try deep colors that can make the area seem intimate and even exotic. Dark, bold hues can be toned

down by different accents, such as neutral colored fixtures and towels.

• Go bold in the kitchen. Incorporate a splash of color in the kitchen without going overboard. Try an appliance or design fixture in a bright shade. Or paint the inside of the cabinets in your favorite color and install glass inserts in the cabinet doors so that everyone gets a peek of the color beyond. A neutral kitchen also can be brightened up with the use of silverware, dishes, pots and pans, and other kitchen items featured in bold hues.

• Stick to boldness on interchangeable items. Those who like to experiment with color may find that they like to switch out the colors now and again. Instead of having to repaint every few months, use decorative items in bright shades to make swapping out color that much easier. For example, replace area rugs, throw pillows and draperies. Paint over terra cotta flowerpots when the mood strikes.

• Establish balance. Rely on neutral furniture, rugs, moldings and baseboards if you decide to take bold colors up a notch. This will help create a sense of balance in the room.

Painting is a fun way to experiment with color. Many homeowners are not hesitant to use bold shades of color when they learn the right techniques. And because paint is an inexpensive option for making over a room, homeowners who find they do not like a particular color can easily paint over it with a new color.

Six easy spring cleaning projects

(MS) — Warmer days are here and what better way to spend them than… cleaning? Although enjoying the great outdoors is probably high on many a to-do list come spring, by the end of winter, homes can probably do with a much-needed overhaul. Owners and renters can rely on temperate days to throw open the windows and engage in some easy spring-cleaning projects. The earlier one begins spring cleaning, the more quickly he or she will be able to head outside and bask in the warm spring sun.

Spring cleaning tasks can be stretched out across several days to make the jobs more manageable. While certain spring cleaning tasks can be time-consuming, many projects can be started and completed in 30 minutes or less.

1. Look up Start by looking up at ceilings, molding and ceiling fans. Chances are strong that some cobwebs and dust have formed in these areas. Always begin cleaning by working from the top downward so you don’t have to clean any tables countertops or floors twice. Static-charged dusting cloths work well to catch and contain dust. Use a pillowcase on ceiling fan blades to clear the dust and keep it from cascading to the floor.

2. Blinds and curtains Heavy window treatments can be removed and replaced with more gauzy fabrics. This lets in more light and warmth from the sun. Many curtains can be freshened up right in the laundry, but blinds may require a bit more effort. If the blinds can be snapped out of the brackets, place them in a tub full of vinegar, dish soap and water. Allow them to soak and then rinse with the shower nozzle. Stationary blinds can be cleaned with us-

ing an old sock over your hand dipped in a vinegar-andwater solution.

3. Change linens Remove and launder bed linens. While the linens are in the wash, thoroughly dust all furniture and vacuum the carpets. Move furniture so you can reach areas where dust gathers, such as under the bed or dresser.

4. Grout cleaner Grade school science lessons can be put to use as you look to remove stubborn dirt. Combining baking soda and vinegar produces a reaction that causes the formation of gassy bubbles. These bubbles can help to break up dirt that clings to crevices, such as grout between tiles. Some light scrubbing and then subsequent rinsing can rid surfaces of hard-to-remove dirt.

5. Vacuum vent intakes Many houses are heated by forced-air systems. The air intake vents can become clogged with dust and other debris. Vacuum these vents so that air flow is not impeded.

Let the heat run for a few minutes to catch any small particles that become dislodged, and then change the furnace filter.

6. Clean out the refrigerator Now is a great time to remove any of those mystery containers growing fuzzy experiments in the back of the refrigerator. Take the food out of the refrigerator and use a food-safe cleaner to scour the shelves and inside of crisper drawers.

Spring cleaning is a necessary task, but it doesn’t have to be a headache. Break up the work into manageable chunks of time, and projects won’t feel like such a hassle.

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Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A., 1000 Kubota Drive, Grapevine, TX 76051; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 5/31/2017. See us for details on these and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information. Optional equipment may be shown. © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2017.

PAGE 14C — • Spring Home and Garden • Addison Independent, Thursday, May 18, 2017

Are you ready for Solar?

Vermont Homeowners Recommend

802 . 453 . 2500 • BristolElectronicsVT.com

FREE ON-SITE EVALUATIONS Bristol Electronics installed our 20 panels quickly, efficiently, courteously and just the way we wanted them. Our roof is a difficult one due to our post-andbeam construction, but nevertheless, the crew was friendly, informative and just great people. Then even in the cloud cover, we began immediately to generate electricity! Furthermore (and most importantly for others deciding to install solar), the price was fair, competitive and honest. If we had another home, I’d want them to put the solar panels on that one, too! We recommend solar and Bristol Electronics without reservation!

Lawrence & Cynthia Jones ~ South Starksboro Bristol Electronics designed and installed a photovoltaic system on our house in New Haven.

We could not be more pleased with the staff and the installation of our system.

Right from the start we understood what we were buying and what the installation process was about. The staff filled out all the necessary paperwork required by Green Mountain Power and the State of Vermont. This in itself made our experience with Bristol Electronics an easy and pleasant one.

The installation was professional and clean. The service did not end with installation. We were contacted to insure that everything was satisfactory and if we had any questions.

We highly recommend Bristol Electronics.

Mike and Helen Hanley – New Haven, VT

Bristol Electronics is the best! They scheduled an on-site visit within days of my call, had a price a week later and started work a week after that. They were finished in a matter of days and since I had a free standing array they even raked and seeded the area around the panels. they get top marks in everything and their customer service is beyond excellent. I highly recommend them if you want the best job for the best price!

Lani Nichols – Goshen, Vt

“We want to thank Dave and everyone at Bristol Electronics for our new solar installation. It looks great on the roof. We had talked to your installers at a job they were doing up the road from us. They were extremely friendly and very willing to answer our questions. We had been thinking of solar and our visit with them cinched it. Dave came out to see our house, collect the information he needed, and explain how everything would work. The installation was so fast.

Just love watching the arrow on the meter go the other way!

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