2021 Home & Garden Life

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Table of Contents Benefits of Home Automation ............................................. 8 Backyard Upgrades on a Budget ....................................... 10 Join the Pallet Craze ........................................................ 16 Plant Summer-Blooming Bulbs ......................................... 18 Paint a Staircase .............................................................. 20 Stay in the Know on Recalls .............................................. 22 Shopping for Solar........................................................... 28 Get a Green Clean ............................................................ 30 Spring Cleaning the Greenhouse ....................................... 32 Protect your Siding Warranty ........................................... 34 Upgrades that Enhance Health ......................................... 36 Spring Cleaning Checklist................................................. 38 Spring Pruning Basics ...................................................... 42 Ideas for Repurposing a Shed ........................................... 44 Prepare Soil for a Spring Garden ....................................... 46 Exterior Maintenance ....................................................... 48

4 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

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2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 7

Benefits of Home Automation Technology has changed the way homeowners care for and protect their homes.

If you’re looking for an upgrade that enhances safety while boosting convenience, total home automation is an investment to consider.

Since the systems are so intricate, it’s beneficial to work with an expert in the field, so you don’t miss out on lifechanging features.

Since many home automation innovations require a solid internet connection to work flawlessly, it may be necessary to upgrade your current setup. Call area providers for the best value while investing in quality download speeds and connectivity reliability. You should also make sure you have a capable smartphone or tablet as these devices may act as a remote control for operation.

If you’re unfamiliar with home automation systems, check out some of the cutting-edge technology your home is missing.

Automated Door Locks With a high-tech lock, you will never worry about leaving your front door unsecure.

Typically, these advanced devices connect to a smartphone and are operated with the touch of a button.

The software also allows you to analyze if a door has been unlocked without your 8 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

authorization, giving you a chance to contact emergency services if necessary.

Another benefit to automated door locks is opening the door for a house sitter or friend if you are uncomfortable leaving a spare key while you’re away.

Temperature Adjustments Do you notice a climbing heating or air conditioning bill during the changing

seasons? Consider investing in a thermostat that allows you to alter the temperature while you’re away. Some units will adjust to your work schedule without interaction to alter the comfort levels before you arrive home.

Many models also can be operated remotely, allowing you to crank up your HVAC equipment to create a comfortable environment on the way home from work.

Control your Lights According to the group Clearly Energy, an incandescent light bulb will cost you about 75 cents for every hour it is left on.

If you have a bad habit of forgetting to kill the lights before leaving for the day, the costs can add up on your utility bill.

Learn how to save money by purchasing smart lights that are operated by smartphone or another device.

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Backyard Upgrades On A Budget Is your backyard due for an update? Sometimes simple landscaping or a new entertainment area will completely change your yard’s appearance.

When you feel uncomfortable making the upgrades, simply search your local area for competitive prices from numerous landscaping businesses. With their help and some creativity, you can create an outdoor paradise just outside your door.

When searching for a company to expertly renovate your outdoor living space, be sure to research their professional profile. Ask them about their experience based on a particular project and inquire about before and after photos they might have in a portfolio. Ensuring you find the right expert for the job is crucial to receiving the desired results.

Entertainment Area on a Budget If outdoor entertaining is your passion, you probably have numerous pieces of equipment like a barbecue grill, pellet smoker and patio set.

Consider keeping them in one area by building a perimeter of pavers for your gear and fill in the middle with mulch or a weed-killing area rug. If you have space and electrical capabilities, en10 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

hance the space by installing a television in the gathering area.

Use weatherproof covers to encapsulate the screen and seal other essential components from rain.

Plant Perennials Perennials are flowers that return each year with attractive blossoms and pleasant scents. Save money by investing in these unique

plants and creating beds around your property.

Each year, as your perennials begin to sprout, your investment will continue to pay off.

For the best results, pay close attention to the planting instructions during the initial process and find out how to protect them during the winter. Many should be cut back and covered with mulch.

Backyard Accents You likely incorporate your interior design with accent items to tie the room together. Your backyard should be no different as it benefits from minor aesthetics that provide significant results.

Consider laying stepping stones throughout flower beds or solar lights to highlight a desolate part of the yard.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 11

Landenberg Pet Resort: Setting a standard for high-quality care and comfort for dogs

By Steven Hoffman Staff Writer

T

he way Betsy Bruhn sees it, if her family couldn’t take their beloved dogs, Maddie and MeMe, to the Landenberg Pet Resort, they might just skip their vacation entirely.

Like a lot of people, the Bruhn family loves their dogs—two beagles— and they need a place where their pets will be cared for in a safe, comfortable environment whenever they go away and can’t take their pets with them. The family wouldn’t be able to enjoy themselves if “Mr. Bob” wasn’t the one seeing to the care and comfort of the dogs.

As Bruhn and hundreds, if not thousands, of people will attest, there isn’t a better place for dogs to stay when their families are away than the Landenberg Pet Resort on Penn Green Road.

Bob Bowe has been running the business for 27 years, and there is something of a golden rule for the quality of the care that Landenberg Pet Resort provides its four-legged clientele in the clean, spacious facility situated a short distance behind the Landenberg Post Office.

“If we were away,” Bob asked rhetorically, “how do we want our dogs taken care of?”

That’s the rule at Landenberg Pet Resort: Here, the dogs are cared for in the same manner that the Bowe family cares for their own dogs, Memphis, Amelia, and Yeager.

As a result of this rule, the dogs love the Landenberg Pet Resort.

And their owners love Landenberg Pet Resort even more.

According to Bruhn, Bowe provides an invaluable service for any pet owner.

“We’ve used Bob for more than ten years,” she explained. “We call him ‘Mr. Bob.’ The first dog that we took to Landenberg Pet Resort was Belle, and she just loved going there. Whenever we said, ‘Mister Bob’ she would just get so excited. She loved going there and seeing Bob. And he really cares about all the dogs that he gets to know.”

When Belle passed away, Bruhn explained, Bob Bowe was heartbroken over the news—that’s how genuine the attachment is between Bob and the pets that he cares for. So when the Bruhns welcomed Maddie and MeMe to the family, there was no doubt that they would be staying at the Landenberg Pet Resort when the family was away from home.

“They are just as excited when we take them to the Landenberg Pet Resort as Belle was,” Bruhn explained. “It gives us a great sense of security to know that the person running the kennel cares so much about my animals.”

Courtesy photo

The clean and spacious Landenberg Pet Resort offers a comfortable environment for the animals.

Bob Bowe’s work day begins at shortly after 7 a.m. each morning and it doesn’t end until 9:30 at night. He doesn’t mind because, each time he arrives, he is greeted by wagging tails and barks of glee. It’s a great way to start a day and a great way to end the day.

“The greeting that I get in the morning is incredible,” he explained with a laugh.

While Bob loves animals, he did not set out to operate a pet resort.

In 1992, he and his wife Karen helped a friend start a kennel in nearby Hockessin, Delaware.

At the time, Bowe was working in banking. When the friend needed to move out of the area, the Bowes decided that they would take over the business. Karen works in the nursing field, so Bob was able to dedicate himself to the new venture.

“I had a great boss at the bank, and I was told that I had a job waiting for me,” Bob recalled. After about six weeks of running a kennel, and being surrounded by the lovable dogs, Bob went back to his employer and informed them that he wouldn’t be coming back.

He admitted that running a pet resort wasn’t something that he thought he would be doing. “But we realized how much fun it is to be around dogs.”

As pet owners themselves, the Bowes already understood the concern that a family would feel any time they left beloved members of the family in the care of someone else.

“It’s so hard to board your dog in the first place,” Bob explained.

“It’s always tough to see the first-time boarders leaving their dog

for the first time. There have been plenty of hugs and tears in the explained.

In addition to boarding, the Landenberg Pet Resort parking lot.” provides the basic grooming services, too.

It’s a scene that has played out time and time again.

The policy at Landenberg Pet Resort is to make the clients, and Of course, while saying goodbye is difficult for the pet owners, the reunions a week or two weeks later are heartwarming. Even their pets, happy, no matter what. Bob explained that they primarthough Bob loves caring for the pets, it’s always great to see the ily feed the dogs Pedigree or Alpo, and families can also bring their own food if they want to. It’s important to keep the pets on dogs reunited with their families. their regular diets.

“The smiles on their faces are unbelievable,” Bob explained.

The Landenberg Pet Resort even has afterThe Bowe family opened the Landenberg hours pickup for families that are eager to be Pet Resort on Penn Green Road in 2003. It is reunited with their pets after a vacation. situated in a quiet and pleasant country setting “I always tell people, if it’s a reasonable time, behind the Landenberg Post Office, and near just give me a call,” Bob explained. the family’s home.

All of these services and care are provided at Having his home close to the kennel allows an affordable rate. Pet owners care much more Bob to keep a close eye on the pets. As Bruhn about ensuring that their beloved pets will explained, “the kennel is so close to his home receive the proper treatment than they care that, if there is ever a problem, Bob is right about the cost of that care, but Landenberg Pet there.”

Resort has long prided itself on affordability.

So while the typical work day begins shortly The current rate for a dog to stay at the resort after 7 in the morning and doesn’t end until is $27 for a day. after 9 at night, Bowe is always on call if the “I want it to be cost-effective for anyone who dogs needs him. wants to go away,” Bob explained.

“We’re down here in thunderstorms, during Most of Landenberg Pet Resort’s clients live the Fourth of July, and on New Year’s Eve,” in Landenberg, Kennett Square, Avondale, or Bob said, referring to the noisy times that are Hockessin. Some of the clients keep bringing known to be unsettling for dogs. their pets to Landenberg Pet Resort, even if The Landenberg Pet Resort is very much a they move a little further away, because of the family business, and through the years numerquality of care. Having someone reliable to ous members of the Bowe family have become lovingly care for a pet is a real blessing. involved in caring for the furry friends staying Bob said that he loves being based in at the resort. This includes the family’s three Landenberg. It’s a great place to be involved in children—23-year-old Casey, 20-year-old Photo by Steven Hoffman a business that caters to pets because so many Madison, and 17-year-old Aidan.

Bob Bowe with Pax people in the area love their animals. There’s “What a help they have been in the family business,” Bob explained. “I have relied on my wife and family also an abundance of good veterinarians in the area.

Giving back to the community is important to the Bowe fammembers tremendously.”

He added that some extended family members have helped out, ily. Bob is a member of the New Garden Township Planning too. Bob has also hired a few youngsters in the community to Commission. They also offer $500 scholarships to local students, help out—but only those people that he personally knows can be and they have also contributed Amazon gift cards to local schools.

Of course, the best gift that he can give to the community is to entrusted with taking care of the dogs.

“I need to know who is dealing with my animals and my custom- continue to operate a pet resort that really sets the standard for high-quality pet care. ers,” he explained.

Bob explained that he always considered it a great responsibilDogs of any breed and age are welcomed at Landenberg Pet Resort. There are 41 runs at the facility, and each one is five-foot- ity and a privilege when someone would place a beloved pet in by-eighteen-foot, and designed for the maximum comfort for the his care.

His clients are very grateful. dogs. Pets that live in the same household can share a run if that’s “He is just so reliable,” Bruhn said. “I wouldn’t leave my dogs the preference, so there can be 40 or more pets at the Landenberg Pet Resort at the same time during the busiest times in the summer anywhere else.”

For more information about the Landenberg Pet Resort, visit the when many families in the area are on vacation.

The arrival of a visitor can get the dogs excited, but typically the website or Facebook page.

To contact Staff Writer Steven Hoffman, email editor@chesterresort offers a mellow environment for the pets.

“When there’s nobody here, it’s amazing how quiet it is,” Bob county.com.

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2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 15

Join the Pallet Craze If you follow arts and crafts or custom furniture communities on social media, you have likely been exposed to pallet projects’ growing popularity.

DIYers are finding unique ways to repurpose the highquality wood in pallets, typically found in warehouses to store and organize inventory.

These unique structures are easily obtainable and can be used in a plethora of ways to update both the interior and exterior of your home.

When committing to trying your hand at creating a oneof-a-kind display for a home improvement project, finding pallets isn’t always difficult. Simply ask business owners in your area if they have any extra units to spare or ask others where they found theirs.

Don’t be hesitant to acquire more than your venture requires, as not all of the boards may be usable.

Getting rid of the extra wood is simple and can lead to a fun bonfire with family and friends.

Here are some ideas to get you started on the journey of pallet repurposing.

Create a Pallet Wall You can give your home an attractive accent wall by covering it with durable pallet wood and a little craftsman16 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

ship. Before you get started, measure the area to determine how much material will be needed. You should also gather tools like construction adhesive, a nail gun, a measuring tape and a table saw.

The first step is to apply a coat of dark-colored paint to the wall that will be covered.

Since pallet wood is rarely

uniform, this will help cover gaps or small holes featured on the wood.

Next, sand the boards down before applying the caulk to the back and holding them in place with brad nails.

Starting at the top, stagger the boards’ lengths so they don’t line up with the pieces above or underneath to give your new wall a unique twist.

Save Space If you’re looking for a way to de-clutter certain areas in your home, pallet shelves can be a great way to save space. Consider building a wine rack to empty space in your cabinets or cooler.

A shoe shelf is a beneficial storage creation to keep the entire family’s items in an organized area.

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Plant Summer-Blooming Bulbs Spring is the time to plant summer-blooming bulbs, such as dahlias, gladiolas, lilies, calladiums and elephant ears. Bulbs should be stored in a cool, dry place until all danger of frost has passed. Then it’s time to plant.

When to Plant Exactly when you plant will depend on what planting zone you live in. According to GardenDesign.com, in colder climates such as USDA Zones 4 to 7, summerflowering bulbs should be planted in mid to late spring (May to June), and in Zones 8 to 10, in early to mid-spring (late March to May).

How to Plant The best resource for knowing how deep to plant your bulbs is the packaging they came in. In general, dig a hole that’s 2-3 times as deep as the bulb is tall. The pointy side of the bulb should face up. The roots should face down. Give the bulbs a good watering.

Continue watering whenever the soil is dry. Keep in mind that over-watering can cause the bulb to rot.

Mind your Soil Most bulbs need rich soil, so mix some compost into your soil for the best results, especially if your soil is heavy clay or has poor drainage.

Loamy or slightly sandy soil is ideal.

18 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Prevent Weeds The best way to prevent weeds is to add 2-3 inches of mulch on top of your flowerbeds. Bulbs can easily grow up through the mulch.

Weeds will have a harder time. Weed barrier fabric is not idea to use when planting bulbs, because it can prevent moisture from reaching the roots of the developing

bulb. If you must use weed barrier fabric, cut slits in the fabric at the site of each bulb.

Plant for Visual Effect Consider when your flowers will bloom to provide blooms all season long. Different plants bloom at different times during the season.

Others, such as such as seed-

um, daylilies, hosta or bleeding heart, will bloom repeatedly until late fall or provide consistent, rich foliage. Mix up your plantings so that your flowerbeds provide visual interest all season long.

Consult Longfield Gardens’ Bloom Time Chart for Spring and Summer Bulbs at bit. ly/2KTQuQm to help you plan your flowerbeds.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 19

Paint a Staircase The home’s entry point to a second story can quickly become a focal point in any room. Whether the staircase features dated carpet or wood with cosmetic damage, touching up the covering can totally change the feel of the entire interior.

While the desired outcome may be simple to imagine, the actual process of restoring stairs can be difficult.

Before you make your mind up regarding which color to repaint the banisters, flooring and surrounding wall, it’s beneficial to analyze the existing covering to see if it can be refurbished. In many older homes, you may discover quality hardwood that

can be easily restored.

Try to start in a small, inconspicuous area and apply paint stripper to find out how the rest of the project will look.

Of course, if the thought of potentially ruining expensive wood isn’t what you have in mind, hire a professional contractor to carefully begin the process.

Once the flooring has been

stripped, consider these tips from Better Homes and Gardens to flawlessly redecorate your staircase.

Painting the Handrail and Balusters Prior to painting the components on your staircase, apply coats to the wall that holds the steps and rails to ensure the chosen colors will blend together. Be careful

to use quality ladders if the area is out of reach.

Once the backdrop is dry, you should mask the stairs with heavy butcher paper and painter’s tape to avoid dripping as you paint around it.

As you coat the handrail, make sure to pain with the grain rather than against, to ensure an even coat. Next, cover the decorative balus-

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ters with your chosen color.

Even if these components will be the same color as the stairs, it’s a good idea to wipe up any drops, as uneven drying may lead to unattractive lumps.

Beginning and Finishing the Steps Once the stairs are ready for their upgrade, it’s a good idea to begin painting the underside of the first nosing before moving on the initial riser.

Try to start at the top and work your way down. If you will need to use the staircase before the paint can dry, only cover every other step. This will give you a path to use.

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Stay In the Know On Recalls In December 2020, a U.S. ceiling fan manufacturer recalled nearly 200,000 fans due to a risk of the fan blades detaching during use, causing injury and property damage. It’s important to keep tabs on recalled products that might be laying around your house with the potential to do harm.

Continued on Page 24 22 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

Continued from Page 22

24 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

You might think you have nothing to worry about, but in December 2020 alone, the CPSC issued recalls of dozens of household items, including the following: all-terrain vehicles, home energy storage batteries, gas camping stoves, portable baby sleepers, tents, flashlights, pole saws, bicycles, cell phone chargers, multi-cookers and more. The risks include burns, fire hazards, fall risks, suffocation and more.

To stay in the know, regularly visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recall website at www.cpsc. gov/Recalls. You can also sign up for e-mails about recalls in specific categories of products.

Sell Smart If you’re planning a rummage sale or selling goods through the classifieds or an online marketplace, do your part to help keep dangerous products out of the marketplace by checking the CPSC website for recalls. Selling recalled products is illegal, not just for retailers but for individual sellers. If you find a product is recalled, immediately destroy and dispose of it to help keep others safe. Many baby cribs with drop sides, as well as most cribs manufactured before June 2011, have been recalled and should not be resold. Check out the CPSC’s publication “Resellers Guide to Selling Safer Products” at https://bit.ly/3rFFdnj.

In Case of Recall If you own a recalled product, the company that produced the product may offer repair, replacement or a refund. You may not need your receipt, so it’s important to always look into rectifying the situation.

If you do receive a replacement product or refund, you will likely be required to destroy and dispose of the faulty product safely to keep it off the market.

Shop Smart To protect your family from unsafe products before you guy, visit SaferProducts.gov, where reports of harm caused by products are cataloged in a searchable database.

On the website, you can search by brand and model number and read reports made by consumers about their experience with products from air purifiers to dishwashers to thermostats to lawn equipment and more.

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solar energy, however, knowing what to look for while shopping for solar panels can be tricky.

The U.S. Department of En-

ergy offers a primer for homeowners called “Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar.” The website (bit.ly/3rIT1xk) covers the basics of how solar

energy works, how to determine if your home is suitable for a solar installation, and the financial and safety considerations involved.

Home Suitability Many factors are considered in determining whether your home is suitable for solar panels. In general, you will need to own your home and have a newer roof with a south-facing slope that isn’t obscured by excessive shade. Each individual solar company will have its own requirements.

Financial Matters You can buy solar panels outright, finance them with a loan, or lease panels.

With a loan or lease, your monthly payments could be lower than your monthly electricity bill, but you will

be locked into a long-term contract. Another option is a power purchase agreement, through which a consumer agrees to purchase power produced by panels installed on his home at a set price.

Purchasing panels could allow you to qualify for the Solar Investment Tax Credit, a 30% federal tax credit available through 2022. Lease and PPA agreements do not qualify for the credit.

Also ask about net metering. This arrangement allows you to receive credit on your electric bill for power that your system feeds back into the grid.

Shop around with various

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solar installers and compare their financing options.

Compare the up-front and monthly costs, as well as tax benefits.

Safety If you’re worried about whether solar is safe for your home, rest assured the industry is well regulated to protect homeowners. Solar panels must meet international inspection and testing standards, according to the Department of Energy, and installers must meet qualifications and install panels to meet local building, fire and electrical codes. Your system should be thoroughly in-

spected by a certified electrician before it goes online.

Community Solar If you decide solar panels aren’t a good fit for your home or budget, you can still benefit from solar energy via community solar. This concept is a way for you to buy into a group solar project which feeds solar energy into the electricity grid, and get a credit on your electricity bill in exchange. To find a community solar project near you, visit communitysolar. energysage.com. Enter your average monthly electricity bill and ZIP code to see how much you could save per

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Get A Green Clean When it comes to getting our homes clean, Americans are increasingly going green.

According to the 2017 ShopperScape survey

by Kantar Retail, 4.7 million consumers had purchased green products for only one year or less and 56 percent of U.S. primary household shoppers purchased natural and organic products in at least one category.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, when traditional chemical cleaning products are released into the environment during normal use, they can affect water quality and endanger aquatic species, affect indoor air quality and cause skin and eye irritation.

Find Green Products Both cleaning products manufacturers and the U.S. government have responded to demand for people looking for more natural ways to clean their homes. The United States Department of Agriculture’s BioPreferred 30 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

program certifies a wide range of products that are safer for the environment than traditional ones. Visit www.biopreferred.gov for the list of household cleaning products, including oven cleaners, sponges, dish soaps, laundry detergents, personal care and toiletries, products for babies and children — and much, more, including building materials, construction supplies, pet products, sporting goods and office supplies.

While it was once the case that one might need to find a specialty or health foods store or even an individual sales consultant to track down green cleaning supplies, they are now widely available at many local supermarkets. So there’s a good chance that you can find a BioPreferred product or a comparable alternative available for purchase locally.

Do It Yourself The great thing about going green with your cleaning is that it’s incredibly afford-

able and easy to do DIY. We all appreciate a pre-made cleaner, but if you are willing to put in some minimal prep work, you can set yourself up for cleaning your home naturally in no time at all.

Here are some formulations for basic cleaners, from Delaware Healthy Homes, that are up to the task of getting your home sparkling clean.

All-purpose cleaner: Mix 4 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 quart warm water.

Disinfectant: Mix 1/2 cup borax into 1 gallon of hot water.

To clear clogs: Pour 1/2 cup baking soda down drain, add 1/2 cup white vinegar, and cover the drain.

The resulting chemical reaction can break fatty acids down into soap and glycerine, allowing the clog to wash down the drain. (Do not use this method after trying a commercial drain opener—the vinegar can react with the drain opener to create dangerous fumes.)

Floor cleaner/polish: Use a few drops of vinegar in cleaning water to remove

soap traces. For vinyl or linoleum, add a capful of baby oil to the water to preserve and polish. For wood floors, apply a thin coat of oil and vinegar (in a one-to-one solution) and rub in well. For painted wooden floors, mix 1 teaspoon of washing soda into 1 gallon of hot water. For brick and stone tiles, use 1 cup white vinegar in 1 gallon of water and rinse with clear water.

Bathroom tub and tile cleaner: Rub in baking soda with a damp sponge and rinse or wipe with vinegar and follow with baking soda as a scouring powder.

Window and glass cleaner: Use a vinegarand-water solution, cornstarch-vinegarand-water solution, or lemon juice and water.

Wipe with newspaper unless you are sensitive to the inks in newsprint.

To avoid streaks, don’t wash windows when the sun is shining.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 31

Spring Cleaning the Greenhouse As the warmer weather begins its arrival, your greenhouse should be prepped and cleaned for the bountiful harvesting season around the corner.

Whether you have a house constructed with plastic sheeting or a commercially installed building, ensuring its cleanliness provides big benefits for the plants inside.

The first step of any green-

house cleaning project should be a visual inspection. Check the interior corners and rafters for signs of pest intrusion like hornet or wasp nests. Of course, you should eradicate these with care if you believe the hives

are active.

Then, look at the integrity of cover materials that make up the walls. It’s common for more inexpensive plastic to show wear and require replacement after the brutal cold of winter.

It’s crucial to repair the damage immediately, as the walls are important to preventing condensation by blocking sunlight and inhibiting moisture to drip onto your plants which invites mildew.

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Address Issues from Last Season Consider the pain points you experienced during a previous harvest and correct it for a more successful year.

For instance, if you noticed a certain portion of your greenhouse that didn’t receive the sunlight it needed, consider rearranging the footprint of your planting structures before they are filled with seed.

If you had recurring issues with insects and pests, ask a local exterminator about a plant-friendly treatment that can limit their intrusion throughout the year. It will be easier for a professional to spread their protective remedy before your greenhouse is full and thriving.

Disinfect Your Space Give your plants a fresh start by eliminating debris or depleted soil from last season. Use an eco-friendly garden cleaner to thoroughly clean out pots and planters before filling them with new stock. Keep a large container on hand and allow seriously contaminated holders to soak before cleaning as scrubbing too hard may lead to damage. Don’t forget to completely rinse and dry these important companions in your greenhouse before attempting to replant.

Get Organized The upcoming planting season will require numerous tools if you want it to be successful. Analyze the condition of your existing equipment while planning for this year’s harvest. If you notice cracks in shovels or dull pruning shears, you should consider replacing them with updated options.

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Protect your Siding Warranty Your home’s siding protects the structure of your home, but what protects your siding? The warranty.

Whether you’re shopping for new siding or interested in maintaining the value of your current siding, it’s important to understand how siding warranties work. That way you’ll know what will be covered and what will not, and you can maintain your siding accordingly.

Labor or materials. Your siding manufacturer will likely provide a warranty on the siding itself. The installer might warranty the installation job,

to be sure it’s installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. Your installer should be able to explain the warranty options for both. In general, warranties that last longer or provide more protection will be more expensive.

Consider how much the protection is worth to you. Would you have room in your budget to replace siding in a situation in which the materials and labor would not be covered? It might

be worth spending a little more upfront to prevent major expenses later.

Coverage limits. What’s covered by the warranty will also vary among manufacturer, product grade and material. A warranty may include protection from insects, hale, rot, delamination, excessive fading, peeling, cracking, rusting, corroding and more. Warranties will differ based on the material. Wood siding is much more

susceptible to damage from things like water and insects, whereas composite siding is much more durable, with the ability to resist severe weather and repel insects.

Term. The term of the loan is another important consideration. Many manufacturers offer a limited lifetime warranty.

If the warranty covers only a set period, such as 50 years, check whether the warranty is pro-rated. This means that the

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older the siding is at the time of a claim, the less the manufacturer will pay. If you are remodeling a home to sell or intend to sell in the near future, consider whether the warranty can be transferred to new owners. This feature could increase the value of the home.

Be sure to let the new owners know how to take advantage of the transfer. There is usually a time limit in which the transfer must be completed, such as 30 or 45 days after the sale of the home. Some features of the warranty may not transfer, and the term may be reduced after the transfer.

Routine maintenance. The siding manufacturer will likely require that you keep the siding maintained to a certain standard. For example, you may be required to use a soft-bristled brush as opposed to a pressure-washer.

The manufacturer will offer recommended products to clean the siding and warn against using strong chemical cleaners. Damage caused by issues such as mold left on the surface of the siding may not be covered. The warranty may also prohibit you from painting, varnishing or otherwise refinishing your siding.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 35

Upgrades That Enhance Health There are numerous ways a home in poor condition can affect its occupants. In some cases, necessary upgrades can be lifesaving or boost the healthy livability of a space.

If your home is older, it’s especially crucial to analyze it for safety conditions that may be impacting your and your family’s health.

The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission banned the use of lead paint in residential properties in 1977. Asbestos is another hazardous material used in insulation, drywall, floor tiles and cement.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the substance was banned to manufacture, distribute or process in 1989. If your home was built before this time, it’s imperative to hire an expert to determine if dangerous wall covering or insulation is present and prepare a strategy to remove it safely.

Check out these other dangerous conditions that may be found within the place you call home as recommended by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

Cool Indoor Temperatures It’s crucial that your HVAC system and home’s insulation is operating correctly to warm and cool your house.

The National Center for Bio36 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

technology Information suggests that low indoor temperatures can lead to these serious health conditions.

• Inflammation of lungs and circulation inhibition.

• Increased risks of respiratory illnesses like asthma.

• Cardiovascular damage like heart disease, stroke and even death.

If you have trouble staying warm during the winter, consider talking to your electricity company about performing an energy audit. They can easily analyze your home to

find out where you’re losing heat and recommend steps to correct the problem.

Pest Infestations Homes that are infested with pests and rodents have a risk of more than just degraded structural integrity.

Inhabitants are also exposed to harmful bacteria when these nuisances are present.

If your property is overrun with pests, don’t be embarrassed to call a professional exterminator. Check out these statistics from the Na-

tional Pest Management Association to realize you are not alone in the struggle.

• Nearly 30% of American homeowners have had a rodent problem in their home.

• Termites cause over $5 billion in property damage annually.

• About 63% of homes contain cockroach allergens, which can cause severe allergic reactions • One in five households have had a bug infestation or know someone who battled an infestation.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 37

Spring Cleaning Checklist Spring cleaning is a chance for a fresh start.

38 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

After a long winter spent cooped up at home, spring is a natural time to declutter, clean and organize your home. Here is a checklist of spring cleaning jobs to remember. You can go it alone, or consider hiring a local cleaning service to help you really make your home shine.

MarthaStewart.com recommends replenishing your cleaning supplies before you get started. That way you’ll have all the tools you need for the job.

• Basic cleaning. Sweep, mop, vacuum, clean toilets, the works. This is the time to tackle deep-cleaning jobs

you’ve been putting off. Sanitize the hard-to-reach area behind the toilet. Scrub off caked-on soap scum and grime on the bathroom faucet. Really get in there and finish the job.

• Once-in-a-while jobs.

This is the time to clean the oven, open all the windows and clean the tracks, glass and screens. Degrease the kitchen cabinet doors and hinges. Give the refrigerator a deep clean, including the door seals and glass. Defrost the freezer, if needed.

Deep clean the kitchen sink disposal. Polish any silver.

Dust the blinds and wash or

vacuum the curtains. Shampoo rugs. Clean washing machine seals. Dust and wipe down baseboards and crown molding. Clean and sanitize remote controls. Check or replace smoke and carbon monoxide detector batteries.

Replace air filters. Dust and clean light fixtures and ceiling fans. Vacuum refrigerator coils. Flip mattresses. Wash comforters and other large bedding, or take them to the cleaners. Reseal grout. Polish or wax wooden furniture.

Wax flooring.

• Seasonal maintenance.

Clean gutters. Clean and repair outdoor furniture. Pres-

sure wash the deck or patio.

Clean any debris from the roof. Consider having your air conditioning unit cleaned and serviced.

• Declutter. Spring is a great time to go through adults’ and kids’ closets to see which clothes no longer fit or have holes/stains. Make a donation pile and organize the remaining clothes in drawers and closets. Do the same with toys and books. Toss any food that’s been hanging around in the refrigerator a bit too long. Inventory the deep freeze so you can use up foods that have been lurking there.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 39

40 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 41

Spring Pruning Basics Many perennial plants need a spring pruning. Their foliage may provide protection during the winter, but by spring, it’s time to prune in order to encourage new growth. This means pruning is an essential part of your spring gardening plans.

Here are some pruning basics to get you started.

When to Prune According to the Old Farm42 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

ers Almanac, the timing of pruning a tree or shrub depends mostly on when it blooms and whether it blooms on old or new growth.

In general, plants that flower after midsummer should be pruned in the spring, while those that bloom in winter, spring and early summer

should be pruned soon after flowering.

Burger Farm and Garden Center reminds gardeners that while an ill-timed pruning

may lead to fewer flowers and fruits, it is rarely fatal to the plant.

What to Prune Fruit trees such as apple, cherry, peach and plum, and vines such as trumpet vine and wisteria, should be pruned in early spring.

Spring-flowering shrubs such as lilacs and rhododendrons need to be pruned as soon as their early-spring blooms have faded. This will help ensure a good bloom next year.

According to TheSpruce.com, Black-eyed Susan, gayfeather, purple coneflower and

globe thistle seed heads are great food for birds, so leave them be until early spring, while coral bells, delphiniums, hostas, turtleheads and mums need the protection of their foliage during winter.

Don’t cut them back until spring.

Pruning Tools It’s important to keep your pruning tools sharp. While a plant can easily recover form a clean cut, a botched cut can weaken the plant and make the plant susceptible to disease. Sharpen shears and clippers, and oil moving

parts to keep them working smoothly.

How to Prune Some plants need more aggressive pruning than others.

Consult the Old Farmers Almanac or your local extension service for particulars on how much to prune a particular shrub or plant.

In general, when pruning a tree, begin with removing any dead or dying branches, as well as any “suckers” — sprouts emerging from the base of the trunk. Make clean cuts flush to the branch, with no part of the growth

remaining. Also remove “watersprouts,” which are small, straight vertical shoots growing on the main branches.

Thin out the tree by removing branches that grow downward, toward the center of the tree or that cross paths with another branch, as well as any limbs along the trunk that are bigger in diameter than the trunk.

Then focus on evening out the branches and removing competing branches. Finally, prune the tree from the outermost growth to give it a pleasing shape, and promote the growth of shorter, thicker branches.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 43

Ideas For Repurposing A Shed A backyard shed is handy for storing outdoor items, such as gardening tools, bicycles, lawnmowers and more. There’s a trend, however, of repurposing backyard sheds into more usable living or storage spaces.

If your shed needs new life or you’re looking for more space, consider these remodels. You can do a basic update on a budget, or go all out and turn the shed into a brand new space.

A Standard Remodel Update a gardening shed with a fresh coat of paint and new fixtures, such as a custom handmade potting bench complete with a wash basin, customized storage for gardening tools and gear and window boxes with flowers.

Man Cave or She Shed If you can afford to put more money into the project, why not turn the shed into a space all your own? Convert the shed to a man cave or she-shed.

Add a TV, sofa and mini fridge for an entertaining space. Add custom storage and a craft table to make a crafting space.

Have a hobby? Wire the shed to run a pottery wheel, woodworking tools or more. Or make it a peaceful yoga space.

the shed into a bull-blown guest house. You’ll likely need to add insulation and heating/ cooling, electricity and furniture to convert the space to a living area. You could also add a TV and internet access. If your budget allows, you could even add plumbing.

A Guest House If you could use a space for guests, consider converting

A Home Office The COVID-19 pandemic sent many people scrambling to

44 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

find space in their homes for a home office. With internet access, soundproofing, insulation and HVAC, your shed could become your new workfrom-home space.

Add a Shed If you don’t currently have a shed, consider adding one.

You can buy pre-made sheds or build your own, or consider a prefab model that can be

customized for the intended use. No matter what you do, check into local ordinances regarding sheds. Sheds above a certain size may need to be permitted and inspected.

If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association sheds may not be permitted or may need to be approved by the HOA board and meet certain design standards.

2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE • 45

Prepare Soil For A Spring Garden While growing fruits and vegetables is a rewarding experience, a blooming display in your backyard can give you a sense of pride each time you step outside. Achieving a beautiful garden requires proper preparation and sometimes a few seasons before it’s fully established.

46 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

If you’re unsure about which bulbs or seeds will thrive in your area, refer to the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map to discover new and exciting options. You can also learn lessons by visiting your local nursery and speaking with their experts. It’s likely their flowers and plants are region-specific to your area but check with them about special orders if you have another plant in mind.

Prepare Soil for a New Garden Once you have chosen the size and location of your ornamental garden, you should

prepare the soil to promote your plants with nutritious benefits. Here are some tips from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to get you started.

• Conduct a soil test to determine existing texture, nutrients and pH levels. Check your local area for an expert who can decipher the results and create a solution to the problem.

• If you’re tilling a new area of land, ensure the soil is dry as disrupting wet soil can destroy its structure.

• Include organic matter to improve soil drainage and texture.

• For best results, ensure the

soil is rich before introducing plants or bulbs.

Wake Up an Existing Garden Early spring planning will provide your gardens with bountiful blossoms and a stunning display of color.

Start by spring cleaning the entire area of dead leaves and other debris left behind by fall and winter. If you pick up clumps of soil and it easily crumbles, it’s a good sign that freezing and ice threats are gone, and you are safe to add compost to your dirt without affecting dormant bulbs.

Gently loosen the top layer of soil to remove rocks and inspect for intrusions from things like roots or pests.

During this stage, you should consider working in nutrientdense materials like manure, or pre-mixed options from your local nursery to the existing dirt.

You will also need to eradicate weeds as they will commonly become a nuisance once the weather warms. It’s good practice to make sure your garden’s edges are in good condition and effective at keeping grass from emerging into the your ornamental bed.

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Exterior Maintenance With warmer temperatures comes the opportunity to get outdoors and do some home maintenance. With so much to do, it’s easy to lose track of everything that needs attention.

Here are some reminders of your home’s major components that might need a little attention at this time of year to be sure they are up to the job of keeping you safe and comfortable all year long.

Air Conditioning Service No one wants to be stuck with a broken air conditioner when it matters the most.

Consider having a local heating and air company check

48 • 2021 HOME & GARDEN LIFE

out your system and provide service, if needed.

done during the off-season will mean the pros will be less busy.

Chimney Service After a long winter of faithful service, your chimney might need some TLC. Annual inspection is recommended to prevent fire caused by creosote buildup. Depending on how often you use your fireplace, you might not need a sweep each year, but an inspection is crucial. Having it

Clean the Grill If you like to fire up the backyard grill on a regular basis, it’s probably in need of some attention. Empty charcoal grills of all debris. Use a spray grill cleaner, which will help dissolve any grease on the outside that can’t be handled with soap and water.

For gas grills, Insurance Hub recommends turning the heat on high for about a half hour, then using a brush to clean the grates. Clean drip trays.

Smoke Detectors The U.S. Fire Administration recommends testing smoke detectors at least once a month and changing the batteries at least once or twice a year.

Windows and Screens Use hot, soapy water and a brush to remove debris from window screens. Give them a rinse and put them in the sun to dry before moving on to windows.

FreshHome.com recommends a solution of one part hot water and one part vinegar applied with a sponge or squeegee, then drying with a rag.

Porch and Deck Sweep and mop the porch.

Hammer any loose deck nails and check for rotting or areas that need resealing. Fortune Builders recommends spraying the deck with water and checking for areas that stay dark, meaning they’ve retained water. It’s also a good time to pressure wash the deck to remove staining.

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