Home & Garden Spring 2023

SPECIAL SECTION

A special supplement from

Locally Grown Fresh Produce & Flowers

We are excited to announce that SPANO GREENHOUSE will be open beginning in April!!!!

The Spano family has been raising flowers for wholesalers since the late 70’s and have decided to start our very own retail greenhouse! We’re very excited to see you this spring!!

From late June - October 31st we will have our home grown vegetables:

Beets • Zucchini • Yellow Squash

Kolirobi • Avocados • Pickles

Tomatoes • Plums • Garlic

Cucumbers Green Beans

Homemade Jelly & Jams Plus Much More

5820 Lowell Blvd. Denver, CO 80221

20 23

SPECIAL SECTION

The 2023 Home & Garden section is a special supplement of Colorado Community Media, publisher of 25 community publications reaching over 350,000 readers every week.

To advertise call: 303-566-4100

Publisher LINDA SHAPLEY

Editor-In-Chief MICHAEL DE YOANNA

Editorial THELMA GRIMES

Advertising Director ERIN ADDENBROOKE

Advertising Sales TERESA ALEXIS RUTH DANIELS

DONNA REARDON

KYRA STOROJEV

Production Manager ERIN FRANKS

Page Design BEN WIEBESIEK

Advertising Design TOM FILDEY TINA MELTZER

A way to keep yards beautiful

BY THELMA GRIMES TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

The days of having Kentucky bluegrass thriving in the front and back yard are over. It’s not because the grass is not pretty, but mostly because it is a total water suck. And when you live in a Western state continuing to deal with the effects of drought – changing the landscape in the yard has become more important than ever.

Jumping into the fray of trying to get more residents to reduce water use in summer, several metro Denver cities, towns and counties along the Front Range are offering incentives, educational programs and more.

In Castle Rock, the town has been pushing water conservation messaging for more than 20 years, but in the last two years, like several communities, they are paying for your grass.

Following a similar program in Aurora, Castle Rock has passed regulations against new homes planting bluegrass at all and pushing more incentive programs to replace existing yards with it.

In exchange for changing out Kentucky bluegrass, Castle Rock residents are being paid a variety of fees and incentives. Castle Rock even hosted a contest last year for those who created beautiful designs without the water-hungry grass helping to suck the county dry.

Rick Schultz, the Castle Rock water efficiency supervisor, said the data doesn’t lie when it comes to the kind of grass people plant and the water required to keep plants alive.

Basing figures on an average resident using 18.69 gallons per square foot of water each season, Schultz said it equates to more than 28,000 gallons of water soaking into the ground in the hot summer months.

To drop those numbers, residents are turning to the ColoradoScape option. ColoradoScape is a natural landscape, comprised of low to very-low water-use-plant material, blending a variety of landscape materials, colors and textures.

When it comes to grass, Schultz said Kentucky bluegrass is a total water suck.

According to the Colorado State University Extension program on gardening, grass varieties like Kentucky bluegrass must receive supplemental irrigation to survive, especially in the hot summer months. Bluegrass lawns can require up to 2.5 inches or more of water per week, according to Extension.

By eliminating bluegrass and decreasing landscape that requires more watering, Schultz said citizens can cut water use in half. A yard using about 30 inches of water per year can easily drop that to 10 by eliminating bluegrass and planting more water-wise plants.

HELPFUL LINKS TO CREATE WATER-WISE GARDENS

Lawn Care • www.bit.ly/3F8CUBO

Xeriscaping: Ground Cover Plants • www.bit.ly/3SX5R9z

Ornamental Grasses • www.bit.ly/3Zzamtc

Xeriscape annuals and perennials • www.bit.ly/3ZTa4Ny

Xeriscape trees and shrubs • www.bit.ly/41ZzYRC

Xeriscape master gardening plans • www.bit.ly/3Zz5hB6

As bluegrass continues to be a water suck, residents and businesses are encouraged to shift to ColoradoScape ways

“This is a significant savings, but here’s the other thing – We promote using non-functional turf,” Schultz said. “We are not anti-lawn, but we are saying if you have non-functional turf where the only time you walk on it is to mow it – Why do you need it?”

In an interview with Colorado Community Media in 2022, Mari Johnston, a natural resource extension agent, said native plants create miniature habitats in backyards for birds, insects and pollinators. Planting native species helps native insects because they support each other and the entire ecosystem.

Schultz said when it comes to the front yard, no one really walks on the grass or uses it. Schultz said there are plenty of alternatives to bluegrass to keep a lawn looking great without consuming large amounts of water.

One popular alternative is Colorado prairie grass, which does not require irrigation at all. Last August, Arapahoe County began removing bluegrass in public spaces, adding in prairie grass. The county estimated the change would save 1.5 million gallons of water.

Parker, in Douglas County, is also transitioning away from bluegrass, as the council recently approved a plan to get rid of bluegrass in public parks and open space areas.

The Colorado State University Extension program works to provide local, expert advice on how to go xeriscape, or take a water-saving approach to landscape, in the region.

Xeriscape gardening refers to a type of gardening that requires very little water and maintenance. To effectively xeriscape, residents and businesses are encouraged to conserve water, improve

soil, and to focus on turf usage, native plant use, irrigation and maintenance.

According to CSU Extension’s Plant Talk, a good way to reach xeriscape status is to utilize mulch as an alternative to turf, and make good use of planting both perennials and annuals that meet low-water requirements.

Perennials are native to the West and are better known as wildflowers,

including penstemons, which produce red, orange, white, blue and lavender flowers.

Annuals include even more variety of water-wise plants, including cosmos, sunflowers, marigolds, zinnias, moss rose, poppy, sweet alyssum and bachelor’s button.

Besides bluegrass, CSU Extension says there are plenty of other turf

WATER REQUIREMENTS FOR GRASS VARIETIES

KENTUCKY BLUEGRASS — 2.5 inches of water per week

BERMUDAGRASS — 1 - 1.5 inches per week

CENTIPEDE GRASS — 1.5 - 2 inches per week

ZOYSIA GRASS — 1 - 1.5 inches per week

BUFFALO GRASS — 1 - 1.5 inches inches per week

BLUE GRAMA — .5 - .75 inches per week

TALL FESCUE — 1 - 1.5 inches per week

FINE BLADED FESCUE — 1 inch per week

COLORADO PRAIRIE GRASS — 0 inches

options, including buffalo grass in outof-the-way areas. Dark green turf like tall fescue that grows deep roots and requires less irrigation is also an option. Getting away from turf altogether, other ColoradoScape options include building beds of bark, stone or gravel mulch. Building a deck or patio in areas where grass used to be can also create a xeriscape yard.

The Key to an Exterior Home Refresh

BRANDPOINT PRESENTED BY COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

From the paint on your front door to the pillows on your porch swing, your home’s exterior provides a canvas for colorfully expressing your style. But a big opportunity to leverage the power of color is often overlooked. Representing as much as 40% or even more of a home’s exterior, your home’s roof not only protects against the elements but can serve as a defining design element-particularly when color is considered.1

Today’s shingle colors go well beyond conventional shades of gray, brown and black. For example, new color palettes in the Owens Corning TruDefinition® Duration® Designer Shingle range include a rich, sensory blend of hues evoking nature’s elements, food and libations, and textiles ranging from leather to metallics. Paired with other exterior elements like paint, siding, landscaping and lighting, roof shingles can pull together a vibe reflecting diverse personal styles.

A good example of this versatility can be seen in Midnight Plum, the 2023 Shingle Color of the Year. Inviting and intriguing, the shingle blends inky blues with regal violet shades and elegant touches of silver to achieve a hue that is distinctive yet versatile. Before you say, “my home’s roof can’t do purple,” let’s look at three examples of how Midnight Plum complements different exterior styles.

When you need the fresh produce of the season or environmentally safe fertilizer, Young’s Market and Garden Center in Wheat Ridge is the perfect place for you. We have a wide variety of garden supplies and plants at affordable prices. Young’s is the Marketplace you can trust for all of your nursery items, plants and fresh fruits and vegetables in season.

OR $10 off

$30 or

purchase of $50 or

Modern Farmhouse. A curated style board available at OwensCorning.com reinvents the familiarity of Farmhouse style. The design board sets shades of charcoals against a rolling green landscape, bringing an element of edginess to traditional design. A subtle hint of lilac softens the look and enhances the violet undertones in the shingle.

Traditional. Like coming home, the traditional style feels classic and welcoming. Set against the airy brightness of a pop of coral, Midnight Plum’s elegant purple tones

bring an optimistic blush to the exterior. Combining clean, time-honored shades of blue and gray, Midnight Plum brings a current day accent to a look firmly grounded in tradition. Homeowners can find more ideas to inspire their own take on traditional style with a curated style board for traditional homes on the Owens Corning site.

California Bungalow. Location doesn’t limit this look named for the American Craftsman style that was nearly exclusive to California in the 1920s and ‘30s. The sloping roof of the bungalow provides a ready canvas for Midnight Plum to bring a cozy contrast to mellow neutrals and sweet purples. An inspiring style board shows how Midnight Plum complements the stone, tile and landscaping that make the California Bungalow style both elegant and homey.

Along with curated style boards, Owens Corning offers other color tools to help inspire your home’s exterior. For example, the Design EyeQ® visualization software allows you to upload a picture of your home and virtually “try on” new roof colors. And calling 1-800-GET-PINK allows you to order free color pairing brochures.

Spotlighting Style

While your home’s roof is an ideal focal point for a color refresh, other elements also support beautiful exteriors. Light fixtures, landscaping and even the color of your porch furniture can all complement a home’s style. Similar to fashion, exterior color trends are always evolving. With versatility in mind, Owens Corning shingles are infused with a dimensional blend of colors to coordinate easily with exterior updates.

While fashion and design trends can come and go, the ultimate vote of confidence when it comes to a home’s style comes from homeowners. Since 2018, Owens Corning has been awarded the Women’s Choice Award®, as America’s most recommended roofing material brand.

Explore and get inspired by a range of shingle and color pairings at www.roofingfashioncolors. com.

1 Roofing & Home Value Research, online survey of female homeowners and real estate professionals conducted by Repass Research, October 31 thru November 9, 2016.

to breathe new life

BRANDPOINT PRESENTED BY COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Do you want a new look for your home in the new year? Perhaps you crave an update but you want to avoid the time and cost commitment of a complete renovation? You may be surprised how a few wellchosen elements can breathe new life into your home.

Interior designers know that strategic updates can revitalize a space without extensive construction. The key is to choose features with designs that speak to you. These items must have provenance and presence to create an atmosphere the moment you enter the room.

Curated design

The preferred design aesthetic of a room is highly personal, but all good design follows certain principles. Take cues from experienced designers who know that by selecting a few well-chosen products, you can create ambience that impacts an entire space. The design of the elements should be memorable and draw the eye without being overwhelming.

For example, the Occasion Lighting Collection from Kohler is a simple yet elegant way to transform any space. This elegant collection of impeccable craft combines sculptural metal frames with lightcapturing ribbed glass shades that draw inspiration from the transformative designs of the early 1960s. This is a period of time when interiors were an intercontinental mix of bold color, tapestries, Japanese screens and other treasures to showcase the owner’s travels and interests.

This unique collection is engineered with the same precision as that of fine jewelry

making. The interplay between the faceted frames and the sparkling, multi-dimensional display of light as it cascades through the crystal ribbed shades results in forms that are bold yet sensual, with an undeniable presence.

Strategic updates

Lighting is an accessible and highimpact way to transform a room and stay on budget. Whether it’s an eye-catching chandelier, pretty pendants, perfectly placed sconces or functional and fashionable flushmount lighting elements, there’s something for every space.

Beyond lighting, there are other strategies that can help you achieve an updated effect without taking on a renovation. Some other methods designers use to transform a room include thoughtfully selecting pieces such as a beautiful area rug, stunning wall art, graceful mirror or tabletop objet d’art. You can add sophistication, create visual tension and add dramatic impact through color or sculpted form. Keep in mind, the provenance of the pieces selected can be anything from where each was found or made, the artist behind the design, the materials the piece is made from, or the craft employed to create the piece.

Above all else, it’s important to be selective. An artful form that has meaning or a story behind it elevates and redefines a space, allowing you to achieve a lot of impact without spending a lot of money. Whether curating the family heirlooms of tomorrow or simply giving your home a refresh by purchasing a pivotal piece, products that make a statement can take your interior to a whole new level in design.

Keeping Pets Safe in the Garden

(Family Features) If you have pets that enjoy spending time outdoors, it’s important to make sure your yard is a safe place for them to be.

POISONOUS PLANTS

Some common plants can be dangerous for animals, causing anything from mild oral irritations and upset stomachs to cardiovascular damage and even death. For example, these are some of the toxic plants the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has identified as harmful for either cats or dogs:

• Aloe — can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, anorexia and depression

• Azalea — can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, weakness, coma, cardiovascular collapse and death

• Burning bush — can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and weakness, as well as heart rhythm abnormalities with large doses

• Caladium — can cause burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting and difficulty swallowing

• Daylilies — can cause kidney failure in cats

• Hibiscus — can cause vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and anorexia

MULCH AND COMPOST — The decomposing elements that make compost good can be bad for pets, according to the National Garden Society. Keep compost in a secure container or fenced off area so pets can’t get to it. Cocoa mulch can be a particular problem for dogs. A byproduct of chocolate production, cocoa mulch can cause digestive problems and even seizures in dogs. Shredded pine or cedar mulch is a safer choice.

FLEAS AND TICKS — In addition to using appropriate flea and tick prevention methods such as collars and sprays, make sure your yard isn’t a welcoming environment for these pests. Keep the lawn trimmed and remove brush and detritus, where fleas and ticks often lurk. Fleas can cause hair loss, scabs, excessive scratching, tapeworms and anemia. Ticks can do all of that, plus bring you and your family in contact with diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease.

FERTILIZER AND INSECTICIDES — The chemicals used to get rid of pests or make your lawn lush can be toxic to pets. Some of the most dangerous pesticides include snail bait with metaldehyde, fly bait with methomyl, systemic insecticides with disyston or disulfoton, mole or gopher bait with zinc phosphide and most forms of rat poison, according to the ASPCA. Follow all instructions carefully, and store pesticides and fertilizers in a secure area out of the reach of animals.

Photo courtesy of Unsplash #15612 Source: Family Features

5EXPERT TIPS TO RENEW YOUR LAWN

Start with a spring cleanup: Spring cleaning isn’t just for the inside of your home. Your lawn has collected fallen leaves, sticks and other debris over the winter months. Leaving behind this plant matter can smother the growth of your lawn and leave behind unsightly dead patches on the turf. A cleanup will give your lawn room to breathe, so it can take in water and sunshine, as well as any fertilizer or weed control treatments.

Clean up the mower: Spring is also time to dust off the lawn mower, fill it with fresh fuel and get your first mow. The first mowing of the season removes dead blades of grass and encourages the lawn to start waking from its winter slumber.

Get a step ahead of weed growth: The return of crabgrass is not something to look forward to, however, the good news is, you can get these and other unsightly weeds under control by applying a treatment before they start popping up around your lawn. But keep in mind, it’s important to get the timing just right.

Nourish your lawn: Spring presents yet another important window of opportunity to achieve a thick, healthy lawn. After being dormant all winter, it will need a dose of food to help it spring back to life and start growing. Because by summer, your turf will be facing many stresses - heat, drought, insects and disease. A light application of fertilizer can help your lawn take full advantage of spring growth and have it at its best. Don’t forget your trees and shrubs, too! The amount of fertilizer needed varies with the age and where your trees and shrubs are located, so contact a professional for expert treatment.

BEAUTIFUL HOMES START FROM THE FLOOR UP

BRANDPOINT PRESENTED BY

COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

As a homeowner, now is the perfect time to start thinking about lawn care again. Spring is your first - and best - opportunity to get your outdoor living space in top shape for the warmer months ahead. And depending on where you live in the U.S., that window begins whenever the soil starts warming.

To help you get ready for a healthy, lush green lawn this spring, TruGreen, America’s #1 lawn care company, shares five things you should do.

Set a simple watering schedule: Regular rainfall is optimal for healthy grass. But when the sun is beating down and it’s been more than a week since the last rainfall, you’ll need to supplement the lack of rain with a sprinkler. Luckily, you can keep it simple as most lawns will thrive and grow with one inch of water per week. To keep track, set a few empty tuna cans around the lawn. When they get full - indicating an inch of water - you can move the sprinkler to a different section. Trees and shrubs also need some watering TLC; keep them hydrated also, particularly when temperatures start to spike.

It’s important to remember that every state and region has unique grass and plant types that present their own needs and challenges. Yet, a thick, green lawn you will feel proud of is closer than you think. Call your local lawn professional and they’ll create a plan that’s tailormade for your outdoor living space to get it into great shape this spring. TruGreen prides itself on designing a lawn-care experience founded on customer needs and rooted in science. To find a professional in your region, visit TruGreen.com.

Want your hardwood floors to last for generations? Use these expert tips

BRANDPOINT PRESENTED BY COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Solid hardwood floors are beautiful and timeless, adding value to any property. However, there’s a misconception that real hardwood floors are difficult to maintain. The truth is that they can last for decades, as long you follow a few simple steps on a regular schedule.

In fact, the time that goes into maintaining hardwood floors isn’t much more extensive than any other flooring material. The key is to practice regular care and cleaning for your hardwood to keep grit and dirt from scratching the wood.

“Hardwood floors are special, and if properly taken care of, you can have a living, organic, premium floor that lasts for generations,” said Jen Meska, director of Merchandising for LL Flooring (formerly Lumber Liquidators). “But to keep them in top shape, it’s essential to have a regular cleaning schedule and be

extra-mindful of any conditions in your home that could damage your floors.”

Tools, tips, and tricks

Meska says to start with the fundamental tools for caring for hardwood flooring: a dust mop for everyday cleaning, a vacuum for weekly cleaning, and a microfiber mop that can get damp (not wet!) for monthly, deep cleaning.

To keep day-to-day dirt and grit off your floors, aim to sweep or vacuum weekly. When using a vacuum for regular cleanings, opt for a soft floor attachment or hardwood setting that disengages the beater bar (this is the bar that rotates when cleaning carpet.) By disengaging it on hardwood and avoiding a vacuum or attachment with hard bristles, you can avoid any scuffing or scratching of your floors.

If you have heavy furniture placed directly on your hardwood, be sure to use felt pads on the feet to avoid scratches, and replace them regularly. This also includes

furniture that is moved frequently, such as dining room chairs.

Strive to do a deep clean monthly to ensure you pick up the dirt and grime that inevitably forms over time. A great hardwood flooring care set is LL Flooring’s Bellawood Floor Care Maintenance Kit, which comes with a bottle of floor cleaner, a mop head and handle, washable wet mop microfiber pad, dry mop pad and a variety pack of felt pads.

This set is GREENGUARD Gold Certified, which means it’s third-party tested for low chemical emissions and therefore safe to use at home. It’s also urethane-safe and won’t leave a dull-streaky residue on your floors, so they’ll look refreshed when you’re done cleaning.

What to avoid

Relative to most other flooring materials, solid hardwood is sensitive to moisture, whether that be due to wet shoes or just changes in humidity. Therefore, it’s important

to keep any amount of standing water off the planks.

That means ditch the traditional mop and bucket, which can leave behind water that could cause your floors to swell, crack or splinter.

Another critical thing to avoid is harsh cleaning solutions which include ingredients like chlorine bleach, ammonia, pine oil or undiluted vinegar. These can dull your floors by affecting the protective finish, causing lasting damage.

By following these simple steps, your hardwood floor should stay in good shape for many years to come.

“The best thing about hardwood flooring is that it’s a sustainable, living, organic material that takes on its own unique character throughout its lifetime,” said Meska. “Each plank is unique and tells its own story, and with the proper care, they can serve as the design foundation of your home for generations.”

THE ORIGINAL EVERGREEN FARMERS’ MARKET

Where: Church of the Cross, 28253 Meadow Drive, Evergreen

This mountain farmers’ market is the place to find fresh, local produce and seasonal products. The Evergreen farmers market is in its fourth year for the town.

When:  Tuesdays, June 13 –Sept. 26, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Information: coloradooutdoormarkets.com

CHERRY CREEK FRESH MARKET

Where: Cherry Creek Shopping Center, 1st Ave. and University Blvd., Denver

The Cherry Creek Fresh Market has a quality mix of Colorado growers and unique local gourmet food vendors representing the best of the Rocky Mountain region. Parking for the weekly event at Cherry Creek is free during market hours.

When:  Saturdays May 6 –Nov. 4; 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wednesdays June 14 – Aug. 16; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Information: coloradofreshmarkets.com

LITTLETON FARMERS’ MARKET

Where: 7301 S. Santa Fe Dr., Littleton (Aspen Grove)

When:  June 14 – Sept. 27;  10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Information: denverfarmersmarket.com

CITY PARK FARMERS MARKET

Where: East High School Esplanade (E. Colfax Ave. and Columbine St.)

The Saturday City Park Farmers Market features 60+ Colorado-based vendors offering locally made produce, dairy, baked goods, beverages, sauces, condiments and ready-to-eat items.

When:  Saturdays, May 13 –Oct. 28; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Information: cityparkfarmersmarket.com

UNIVERSITY HILLS FARMERS MARKET

Where: 2500 S. Colorado Blvd., Denver

Shop for farm-fresh produce, pasta, honey, locally roasted coffee, fresh-baked bakery items, eggs, dairy, meat — even gourmet dog treats! Enjoy free parking as you browse at University Hills Plaza.

When:  Saturdays, May 13Oct. 28; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Information: farmersmarketscolorado.com

DIRECTORY

COPERTA VIRTUAL FARMSTAND

Where: Coperta, 400 E. 20th Ave., Denver

Coperta has teamed up with Longmont’s Ollin Farms to offer produce boxes for pickup. Order and pay online between 11 a.m. Tuesday and 5 p.m. Thursday; different veggies are available every week, and you can add on items like local honey, hot sauce, pickles and peanut butter. Pull up to the loading zone outside for curbside pickup.

When:  2023 dates not announced

Information: copertavirtual-farmstand.square.site

SOUTHWEST PLAZA FARMERS’ MARKET

Where: Southeast parking lot at Wadsworth Blvd. and Bowles Ave., Jefferson County

Local suppliers come to the Southwest Plaza Farmers’ Market in Jefferson County with their fresh peaches, plums, apricots and cherries mid-season, and you’ll also find fresh baked goods, honey and greens.

When: May 6 – Oct. 28;  8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Information: denverfarmersmarket.com

LAKEWOOD FARMERS’ MARKET

Where: Mile Hi Church, Alameda Ave. and Garrison St., Lakewood

At the Lakewood Farmers’ Market in Lakewood, a large lineup of vendors will tempt

you with beautiful leafy greens, glistening grape tomatoes, fragrant green chili and shiny string beans. And you’ll also have the chance to munch on kettle corn and cheese samples while you browse knitted shawls and handmade soaps.

When:  June 10 – Sept. 30;  10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Information: denverfarmersmarket.com

SOUTHLANDS FARMERS MARKET

Where: 6155 S Main St., Aurora

Set in the beautiful main plaza in the Southlands Shopping Center in Aurora, this market comes alive every Saturday with seasonal produce, Western Slope fruit and much more.

When: 2023 dates not set

Information: thelocalcolorado.com

SOUTH PEARL FARMERS MARKET

Where: On the 1500 block of Old South Pearl St., Denver;  Between Florida Ave. and Iowa Ave. Super-fresh produce, readyto-eat treats, artisan cheeses and just-out-of-the-oven baked goods — this is what a farmers’ market is all about! The quaint South Pearl neighborhood  hosts the splendid South Pearl Street Farmers Market every Sunday in the summertime. The irresistible smell of freshly roasted chilies will lead you over to Pope Farms’ booth. And keep an eye out for juicy,

8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Information: goldenfarmersmarket.org

HIGHLANDS RANCH

FARMERS’ AND STREET MARKET

Where: Highlands Ranch Town Center, 9288 Dorchester St., Highlands Ranch

Made up almost entirely of farmers and producers from the areas surrounding Denver, this is a fun, fresh market. Fill all of your fruit and veggie needs and then explore some of the other, more unique booths of the Highlands Ranch Farmers’ and Street Market, offering everything from handbags to cooking utensils to garden adornments.

When:  May 7 – Oct. 29;  10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Information: denverfarmersmarket.com

PARKER FARMERS MARKET

Where: 19565 Mainstreet, Parker

fresh Colorado peaches at the Ela Family Farms stand.

When:  May 7 – Nov. 12;  9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Information: southpearlstreet.com/ farmers-market

CENTRAL PARK FARMERS MARKET

Where: The Green at E. 29th Ave. and Roslyn St.

The Central Park Farmers Market takes place from June to October on The Green. Don’t miss freshly popped kettle corn and other tasty snacks while you browse for healthy produce.

When: 2023 dates not set

Information: mca80238.com/ programs/signature-events/ summer-markets

GOLDEN FARMERS MARKET

Where: West parking lot of the Golden Library – 1019 10th St., Golden

The Golden Farmers Market (GFM) is produced and managed by the Golden Chamber of Commerce, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit. A longstanding tradition in the Golden community, we strive to contribute to the success of local food growers and producers, as well as other businesses, and create vibrant community gatherings.   The revenue generated from vendor sales commission helps to cover market operating expenses and directly benefits small businesses and the economic development of the Golden community.

When: June 3 – Oct. 7;

It’s the hottest place in Parker on a Sunday morning with over 100 vendors, including local vegetable growers, Western Slope fruit growers, flavorful food offerings, beautiful plants and flowers, and on-site cooking. When: 2023 season opens May 14; 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Information: thelocalcolorado.com

FESTIVAL PARK FARMERS MARKET

Where: 300 2nd St., Castle Rock

Located in and around Festival Park in downtown Castle Rock, this farmers market is open every Sunday through October.

When: May 28 – Oct. 15; 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Information: thelocalcolorado.com

PEOPLE + PRODUCE AT BELLEVIEW STATION

Where: Denver Tech Center

This weekly summer market is a place where the South Denver community can shop for local produce, meat and fish, grocery items, baked goods, dog treats, artisan crafts and more.

When:  June 4 – Sept. 24; 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Information: belleviewstation.com/do/ people-produce

To submit farmers market info, contact Thelma Grimes at tgrimes@ coloradocommunitymedia. com.

Colorado natives in the back yard

TGRIMES@COLORADOCOMMUNITYMEDIA.COM

Hydrangeas, roses, Kentucky bluegrass — this is how Mari Johnston describes the typical American backyard, similar to English cottage gardens.

Yet with Colorado’s limited resources, these water-intensive plants don’t mesh

Johnston is a natural resource extension agent at Colorado State University, and she recognizes the irony of water-intensive plants growing in the back yards of Coloradans.

With water remaining a scarce resource, planting flowers that thrive in wetter, different climates spruces up gardens but depletes resources. A seemingly more popular alternative exists, according to Johnston.

“Native species are really adapted to meet those resources that Colorado has,” she said.

Johnston explained that native plant species have been hard to come by historically. Access to them remained low, and consumers weren’t often asking for them. Also, the culture remained in favor of grassy lawns.

She said that’s changing.

“I think more and more people are asking for native plants and pollinator friendly plants,” she said. “If people are looking for native plants and pollinator plants, nurseries tend to then go out and get those.”

Shop local

Ashley White, the Butterfly Pavilion’s community habitats manager, said forgoing the typical flowers does not mean giving up picturesque gardens.

“There’s a misconception that you’re limited to things that are lackluster when you move away from traditional garden plants, but nothing could be further from the truth,” she said.

She points to colorful blooming perennials such as blanket flower or gayfeather, flowering shrubs such as serviceberry or snowberry and showy grasses such as blue grama and Indian rice grass. And those plants can attract beautiful pollinators, such as butterflies and hummingbirds. However, one size does not fit all in Colorado. Different areas come with different species. She said the Colorado Native Plant Society’s website denotes different species for different areas, and provides information about where to buy them.

Or, just head to a local nursery and ask.

Walking the walk, planting the plant

Planting native plants is no different than planting any other plant. Find a space, dig a hole and plop it in. In fact, White said it may require less work since native plants maintain a better relationship with Colorado’s claybased soils, so very little tending is needed.

White said mid-May to mid-June is the best time to get plants in the ground to take advantage of cooler temperatures, and hopefully, more rainfall.

Also, early fall is often overlooked.

“The quiet winter season can be a great time period for resting on the surface while getting settled in in the soil,” White said.

Many benefits

Not only do native plant species help lower residents’ water bills and municipalities’ water usage, but they also help make local environments healthier.

“They tend to not need a lot of fertilizer because they’re sort of adapted to our climate and soils,” Johnston said.

Also, they create miniature habitats in backyards for birds, insects and pollinators. Planting native species helps native insects because they support each other and the entire ecosystem.

“Without the pollinators we wouldn’t have these plants. Without these plants, you wouldn’t have the pollinators, and both of these things kind of serve as the base of our food webs,” White said. “By including native plant species in our gardens, we’re not only ensuring that those species continue to play their key parts in the Colorado ecosystem, but we’re providing much needed resources to insects and to birds and other Colorado wildlife — food, shelter, materials for rearing their young.”

Strong, Stylish Spring Home Upgrades

FAMILY FEATURES PRESENTED BY COLORADO COMMUNITY MEDIA

Springtime is a perfect opportunity for homeowners to begin planning renovations to enhance the interior and exterior of their living space. Because of its strong performance capabilities, low maintenance and design flexibility, brick is a popular building material choice when looking to improve or refresh your home in time for warm—weather hosting season. Often selected for its functional benefits, brick is available in a wide array of colors, textures and sizes that can match varying design styles, from modern to traditional and almost everything between. If you’re considering adding brick to your home’s aesthetic, consider these five projects to tackle this spring from the experts at Glen—Gery, one of the largest brick and stone manufacturers in North America.

Basement or patio bar — As homeowners spend more time at home, they often look to maximize livable space. One way to take advantage of unused living space is building a basement or patio bar, which provides an area for entertaining. Using an exposed brick wall can help designate the bar area and separate it from the rest of the basement, or lining a bar counter with brick can create a rustic contrast against the bar’s seating.

Fireplace — To change the look and feel of a room almost instantly, you can use brick to give a fireplace a facelift or make it a focal point of your home. Available in a variety of colors and textures, Glen—Gery’s diverse, premium portfolio of more than 600 brick and stone products can elevate your living room’s style in a big way and create a more inviting area to share with family and friends. An outdoor fireplace is another option for extending livable space in a cozy way that can

be used throughout the year.

Accent wall — Create a statement in or outside your home with a brick accent wall. Accent walls can help bring color, texture and beauty to homes by breaking up the monotony of monochromatic color or decor, creating visual interest and dimension. While brick in a running bond pattern is expected, you can spice up rooms with an unexpected bond pattern like a stacked bond for modern appeal or herringbone for a rustic look.

Kitchen backsplash — One of the most overlooked areas of kitchen design is the backsplash. While its job is to protect your kitchen walls from the never—ending assault of kitchen splatters, there’s no reason it can’t look good, too. Brick backsplashes can accommodate most home designs and styles thanks to the versatility of shapes, colors, finishes and sizes available.

Black or white glazed brick works well with more modern kitchens while irregular brick containing an abundance of texture and a messy mortar application can complete rustic farmhouse kitchens. An option like Glen—Gery’s virtual design tool, Picture Perfect, can help you visualize projects in your home to see what fits your style and needs.

Brick skirt — For added curb appeal, consider adding a brick skirt around the foundation of your home. Given its resilient, durable and energy— efficient qualities, brick can help provide better insulation and protection while also adding visual appeal to the exterior of your home through texture, color and contrast. The skirting can also continue through to the front porch floor and steps, helping balance out the elevation of your home.

For more inspiration for your next home renovation project, visit glengery.com.

How to spring clean your wellness

(BPT) - With the sun emerging from the clouds and the weather warming up, it’s time to take stock of your wellness. Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dalina Soto says that springtime calls for a review and refresh of your mind and body.

GET MOVING

During winter, it’s easy to go into hibernation mode, making it difficult to find motivation to exercise. As it starts warming up again, strive to incorporate movement throughout your day.

You can start by taking a lunch walk with a co-worker so you can enjoy the

PRIORITIZE SLEEP

Sleep is an important aspect of your holistic health. When you don’t sleep well, your energy depletes, meaning that you’re less likely to want to be active, potentially affecting your ability to work. It also can have a considerable impact on your mental health. According to the Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard Medical School, poor sleep can lead to irritability and stress which may increase

FUEL YOUR ENGINE

Just like a car, your body needs the right fuel to run properly, which is why it’s essential to have a balanced and nutritious diet. Beyond making sure you get enough carbs, protein and greens in your meals, you should ensure you’re eating foods with Omega-3 fatty acids.

Omega-3s can help maintain your mental health, improve sleep and build and maintain a healthy body, especially

By looking at your holistic wellness and tweaking your habits, you can reduce stress and increase productivity and happiness. To help you jump-start your “spring cleaning,” Soto offers tips on how to improve your exercise, sleep and eating habits this season.

fresh air and sunlight. Check your local community center to see if there are any pickup volleyball games or other outdoor recreational sports you can participate in once or twice a week. If you want to establish a gym routine, find a buddy to go with for accountability.

the risk of developing anxiety and depression.

Soto suggests taking time to examine your sleep hygiene. Do you have a set bedtime, and do you stick to it? Do you frequently wake up throughout the night? Are you staying up on your phone? Ask yourself these questions and see where you can revamp your nighttime routine.

after strenuous exercise. You can easily incorporate Omega-3s into your diet by eating Eggland’s Best eggs. They contain more than double the Omega3s and six times more Vitamin D than ordinary eggs, which helps regulate mood and boost overall mental health.

The garden frittata recipe below is an excellent example of how a nutritious meal can improve your overall wellness this spring.