Build &Bloom Home and Garden Guide |
PIN IT
for fresh
IDEAS
Spring 2015
GREEN ENERGY makes gains
Texas
LOVES
its native plants
A publication of
Standard Fredericksburg Radio Post
2
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Tools at the ready Before you get to work, make sure you’ve dotted your I’s and crossed your T’s Ready to do some home renovation this spring? Local residents should be sure to check whether or not a building permit from the City of Fredericksburg is necessary before starting their project.
… build a gazebo in my backyard. - Permit is needed. Cost is $25 minimum or $0.07 per square foot.
… install a sprinkler system/drip irrigation in my yard. - Permit is needed. Cost is $30.
… remodel the interior of my house. - Permit is needed only if interior walls are moved. Fee is based on the cost of construction with a $25 minimum and $5 for each additional $1,000 of work.
… install new landscaping. - No permit is needed.
… seal my driveway.
I want to … … add on to my house.
- No permit is needed.
- Permit is needed. Cost is $0.15 per square foot.
… build a fence.
- Permit is needed. Cost is $5 for entire fence.
… replace shingles on my roof.
- If the home is in the Historic District, a Certificate of Appropriateness is needed. Cost is $10-$50.
… paint my fence/house a new color/the same color.
- If the home is in the Historic District, a Certificate of Appropriateness is needed. Cost is $10-$50.
… build a deck/patio in my backyard/front yard.
- Permit is needed. Cost is $25 minimum or $0.15 per square foot.
… have a garage sale to get rid of unused items. - No permit is needed, but the only sign advertising the sale must be placed in your yard.
… plant a garden.
- No permit is needed.
Information on individual permits can be found online at www.fbgtx.org or from city staff at 997-7521. ON THE COVER: Landscaping at the home of Barry and Joyce Trautman in northeast Fredericksburg bursts with spring color. — Standard-Radio Post photo
KEEPING YOUR HOME COMFORTABLE & HEALTHY For All Your Air Conditioning, Heating and Indoor Air Quality Needs If you need a complete heating and cooling system installed, we’ve got you covered. Plus, everything we do in your home is covered by our 100% Satisfaction Guarantees!
830-856-2502
72DegreesTexas.com
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Making every client’s dream a reality SM
Bros. Construction, Inc.
Generations of Builders
3
830-997-3043
_ ~ k e \ t~ r ~ ~ j b b p \ “Customizing Comfort Since 1974”
s m ~ ~ c p ~ ~ e ` o ~ >
830-997-2584
eb^qfkd ° ^fo CONDITIONING `ljjbo`f^i obcofdbo^qflk p^ibp ° pbosf`b ° fkpq^ii^qflk TACLB005208C
3
4
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Canning or freezing? Extension agent discusses food preservation methods By Yvonne Hartmann Some people love to garden, others prefer to shop at the farmers’ market while others will stock up on their favorite fruits and vegetables at the grocery store. All too soon, the growing season is over and it’s back to eating canned and frozen fruits and vegetables. But that doesn’t have to be a bad thing, especially if those fruits and vegetables were canned or frozen at home. “When you have a garden, you can’t always eat everything, especially if you have a lot of different products,” said Shea Nebgen, Gillespie County Extension Agent — Family and Consumer Sciences. “You can’t eat it all as fast as it is coming in.” Rather than letting the produce go to waste, Nebgen said that “you can preserve a lot of the flavor and taste through canning, freezing or drying methods.” Home preservation of fruits and vegetables also works well for those who don’t garden but like to shop at farmers’ markets or the grocery store to purchase larger-than-usual amounts of fruits and vegetables when they are in abundance. And along with being a cost-saving measure, Nebgen said that “if you preserve it correctly, you can preserve more of the nutrients.” She said that the key is to preserve the fruits and vegetables at their peak rather than waiting until they are over-ripe. Canning and freezing are the most popular methods of preserving fruits and vegetables. She said, “Freezing is the quickest method because you don’t have to have all the materials. You just have to have freezer safe bags or containers.” On the other hand, she said, canning is also good because individuals can store the items on a shelf rather than having to
Gillespie County Extension Agent Shea Nebgen shows off some of the jars of strawberry jam that she processed using the boiling water bath method. — Standard-Radio Post photo
find freezer space. There is also the cost of electricity for the freezer. As a family, Nebgen said that they like to take fresh fruit and turn that into jams, jellies and preserves. But what’s the difference between the three? Jelly is made from fruit juice, jams contain crushed or chopped pieces of fruit and preserves are made with pieces of the fruit. Since most fruits and vegetables can be canned or frozen, Nebgen said to figure
out “what do you want to do with the product afterwards and how to do you want to eat it?” It is also a process of trial and error. “If you don’t like freezing it, you can try canning it,” she said. Freezing When it comes to freezing, Nebgen has several recommendations, including making sure that the bags or containers are freezer safe.
&Bloom
Spring 2015 To insure that foods are frozen properly, Nebgen recommends freezing foods at zero degrees Fahrenheit. To facilitate more rapid freezing, set the temperature control at -10 F or lower for about 24 hours in advance. Foods should be put in the freezer as soon as they are packed and sealed, and freezers should not be overloaded with unfrozen food. “Add only the amount that will freeze within 24 hours, which is usually two to three pounds of food per cubic foot of storage space,� Nebgen said. “Overloading slows down the freezing rate, and foods that freeze too slowly may lose quality.� Also, she said that packages should be placed in contact with refrigerated surfaces in the coldest part of the freezer. Leave a little space between packages so air can circulate freely, and then, when the food is frozen, store the packages close together. Nebgen noted that most vegetables are blanched before freezing. But, she said, “You want those vegetables dry when you put them in the freezer.� She suggests spreading them out in a
C
RESOURCES There are any number of resources available to use as guidelines for home preservation methods. One such resource for Gillespie County Extension Agent Shea Nebgen and others is “So Easy To Preserve,� which was produced by the University of Georgia. The book contains tested recipes, remedies to problems, common questions that might be asked, altitude adjustments and other information on preserving products. Nebgen herself is a resource that individuals can turn to with their questions. She said that she is also available to lead classes on a variety of subjects. She can be reached by calling 997-3452 or stopping by her office at 95 Frederick Road.
single layer on a cookie sheet and giving them a quick blast chill before packaging. “That seems to work well and the vegetables stay loose,� she added. She noted that products frozen in a clump indicate that thawing has already occurred and that they have been
refrozen. Products such as “Fruit Fresh� keep fruits from turning brown. And when using products like “Fruit Fresh,� she said that it is important to follow the recommendations on the package. “It is not always that too much is a better thing.� Canning When it comes to canning, Nebgen said that more equipment is needed. There are two types of canning methods — boiling water bath and pressure canning. For a boiling water bath, Nebgen said that the products can either be hot packed or cold packed. That means putting the product into the jar raw or cooked. Probably the most important aspect about canning, Nebgen said, is to use new seals every time. And while the seals are not reusable, the rings can be used again as long as they are not rusted. Jars can also be reused, but the jars
o t S t one R i d e m o H e ge om
You’ll fall in love with the casual lifestyle at Stone Ridge, Fredericksburg’s premier neighborhood located only two miles north of Main Street on Texas Highway 16 and Crabapple Road.
CANNING â–ś6
5
6
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Canning or freezing? Preserve summer’s abundance Cont. from 5
should be labeled specifically for canning because they have been tested to withstand the heat in the boiling water bath canners. A common mistake that people make, she said, is that they think they are done if they do a hot pack. “You still have to take the jar with the seal and put it into the boiling water bath or the canner to be processed,” she said. Once processed, the jars should be put on the counters and not moved until that “famous pop” has been heard. “Do not turn the jars upside down,” Nebgen stressed. Doing so could cause liquid from the jar to get into the seal causing the jars to not seal properly. If for some reason a jar does not seal, Nebgen said that there is a possibility that it can be reprocessed. Or, she said, just put that jar in the refrigerator and eat it first. Nebgen also has suggestions for those choosing to use pressure canners. “The biggest thing to remember is to get your gauge tested every year — every canning year, every canning cycle you do,” she said.” She is available by appointment to check the gauges, seals and equipment, which only takes five to 10 minutes. If the gauge is off, she has information on how to make adjustments. Gauges can also be sent off for recalibration. “It is important to get the gauge tested,” she said. “Otherwise, you are not sure if you are doing it at the right pounds per pressure.” Drying “I don’t get a lot of questions about drying products,” Nebgen said. She said that having a dehydrator makes the process a lot
Rugs Tile Hardwood Paint Blinds Curtains Home Accents
easier. They are also several other methods, including sun, solar, indoors, vine drying and oven. Tested recipes While some may have “tried and true” recipes handed down to them from their mothers, grandmothers, etc., others are just learning to preserve foods at home while others may want to experiment with new recipes. The key to success, Nebgen said, is to use tested recipes. They can usually be found on internet sites that end in .edu or.gov. “Just going to the internet and finding a recipe is not recommended,” she said. For example, Gillespie County is above sea level. “Most recipes you will come across are for sea level,” Nebgen said. “For locations over 1,000 feet, you have to adjust the processing time.” The Benefits Along with taking advantage of the abundance of fruits and vegetables and not letting them go to waste, Nebgen said that there are other benefits as well. “You know where your food is coming from. You know every step of that process that it has gone through. You know who has handled it,” she said. Preserving foods at home can also be a cost-saving measure and there are no extra preservatives added to help with the processing. And to further protect themselves, Nebgen suggested that gardeners have their soil tested. “We do that too,” she said. “The point is,” she said, “you know where your food is coming from.”
Let us help make your house a home 1324 S. St. Hwy. 16 Fredericksburg
830-997-8413 www.theinsidestorytx.com Find us
&Bloom
Spring 2015
PROFESSIONAL LP GAS SERVICE FOR HOME & BUSINESS Complete Leak Test & Safety Inspection Done Before New Customer Fill-Up
“QUALITY SERVICE & INSTALLATION�
GRILLS
GAS LOGS
L
Š›�Ž›œ
�ȹę¥
Š�šž ȏž™ȹ‘Ž
’— ÂžÂ›ČąÂœÂ™Â› ˜ ¢ Čą Âœ ž Čą Š”Ž
ÂŽČąÂ—Â˜Â ČąÂœÂ?˜Œ”
Žȹ‘ŠÂ&#x;Žȹ ‘ŠÂ?ČąÂ˘Â˜ÂžČąÂ—ÂŽÂŽÂ?ČąÂ?Â˜ČąÂ–ÂŠÂ”ÂŽČąÂ˘Â˜ÂžÂ› Â‘Â˜Â–ÂŽČąÂŠÂ—Â?ȹ•Š —ȹ‹ŽŠžÂ?Â’Â?ž•ǹ Lumber ČŠČą ˜˜ę—Â?ȹȊ Hardware ČŠČą Š’—Â?ȹȊ Tools ČŠČą ˜–™•ŽÂ?ÂŽČą Â’Â—ÂŽČąÂ˜Â?Čą ž’•Â?’—Â?Čą ŠÂ?ÂŽÂ›Â’ÂŠÂ•ÂœČą ČŠČą •Š—Â?ÂœČą ČŠČą ››’Â?ŠÂ?Â’Â˜Â—ČąČŠ Â˜Â ÂŽÂ›ÂœČą ČŠČą žÂ?Â?Â˜Â˜Â›Čą —Â?Ž›Â?Š’—’—Â?Čą ČŠČą •Š¢ȹ Â’Â?Âœ ČŠČą Â™Â™Â•Â’ÂŠÂ—ÂŒÂŽÂœČąČŠČą Â˜Â–ÂŽČą ŽŒ˜› ČŠČą žœÂ?Â’ÂŒČą ž›—’Â?ž›Ž www.sutherlands.com
GAS & WOOD FIREPLACES & ACCESSORIES Z, W d Z^KE ' ^ >K'^ Θ &Z ^d E /E' Θ h/>dÍł/E ' ^ 'Z/>>^ TANKS & SYSTEMS INSTALLED & SERVICED
EASY IN & OUT Kdd> Zs &/>>/E' ^d d/KE
Mon. - Fri. 8am-5pm Sat. 9-12 (Winter)
dK>> &Z Í— ĎͳϴϳϳͳϰϹϹͳϴϲϯϴ
ϴϯϏͳϾϾϳͳϴϲώĎ
ĎĎŽĎ°ĎŹ ,Ĺ?Ĺ?ĹšÇ Ä‚Ç‡ Ďϲ ^ŽƾƚŚ Íť &ĆŒÄžÄšÄžĆŒĹ?Ä?ĹŹĆ?Ä?ĆľĆŒĹ?
FREDERICKSBURG: 1511 E. Main St. 830-997-5900
5
Open Everyday Mon.-Fri.: 7:30am-7pm Sat.: 7:30am-6pm Sun.: 9am-5pm
*5% Off Instant Discount Offer: No minimum purchase required. Get 5% Off single-receipt purchases of any stock or special order merchandise charged to your Sutherlands Credit Card. Offer cannot be used in conjunction with any other coupons or discounts. Excludes delivery, installation, liquor, gift cards and prior purchases. Subject to credit approval.
7
8
&Bloom Homes are always
Spring 2015
GREENER on the energy efficient side By Richard Zowie
Home owners practice energy efficiency for two general reasons. For those who prefer the practical, financial viewpoint, it boils down to a simple equation: the less electricity, water and propane used, the more money is saved. Others see themselves as stewards responsible for the environment. Water, propane and electricity are valuable resources that must be conserved and not wasted. To make their homes energy efficient, many will make sure their air conditioner or heater is turned off when the weather is not too hot or too cold. Others install devices in their homes designed to maximize energy efficiency. Among them are solar panels, thermal collectors, rain water collectors and skylights. In Texas, water conservation is often FREDERICKSBURG SHINES mandatory due to the x ([HFXWLYH GLUHFWRU -RKQ :DWVRQ ongoing drought and x $GGUHVV 1RUWK 0LODP x 3KRQH how much it costs to x :HEVLWH ZZZ IEJVKLQHV RUJ produce fresh water. x (PDLO LQIR#IEJVKLQHV RUJ John Watson, x )DFHERRN 7\SH v)UHGHULFNVEXUJ executive director of 6KLQHVw LQ WKH VHDUFK ER[ Fredericksburg Shines, said watering lawns of non-native, water-hungry grass like St. Augustine can result in much water usage. So can using older toilets that require 3.5 gallons of water or more to flush. While electricity is often wasted when unused rooms remain illuminated, some see a waste of water to be even worse. “We need water much more than electricity to maintain our health and to live,� said Michael Hurst, president of Fredericksburg Shines. “Water is much more scarce than electricity.� Saving water, electricity Fredericksburg Shines offers a program where they will review a person’s individual situation and offer ideas on how the person can lower their energy and water usage. “We do this as a mission to make Fredericksburg the most sustainable community in Texas,� Watson said. Ken Wichman, a board member with Fredericksburg Shines, suggested that people monitor their water and electricity usage. “Measure how much water and electricity you use each day,� he said. “There are lot of savings to be done by some relatively little
changes in lifestyle only by being aware.� Collecting rainwater can help alleviate the problem of watering plants. Hurst also suggests one-gallon flush toilets, aerators on faucets, showering with a three- to five-gallon plastic pail to collect as much “grey water� (waste water from sinks, showers and dishwashers) as possible for use on plants and gardens. Caulking windows and doors, adding insulation to the attic, replacing old windows with new, double-paned, energyefficient models can help save energy inside. Hurst added that shading south and west-facing windows will cut down on direct heat gain, as do blinds with adjustable awnings and proper selection of trees and other landscape plants. “The goal here is to block the seasonal heat gain and allow it in the cooler months,� he said. Solar power “Solar power is generally the most applicable in the Hill Country,� Watson said. Heat from the sun generates energy — especially during the hot summer days. Solar thermal panels can be used to heat water for bathing and cooking or to heat either air or water for indoor heating. Solar panels also can be used to generate electricity. Other alternate energies Other forms of alternate energy include geothermal and wind energy. Geothermal heat pumps can help reduce heat and cooling costs while wind energy, as captured by operable skylights and specific window openings, can help save air conditioning
&Bloom
Spring 2015 costs in the spring and fall. Skylights provide “seasonal ventilation,� said Hurst, adding they can produce a “chimney effect� that lets fresh air in and creates a cooler environment. Besides providing a natural alternative to mechanical cooling, skylights can also provide natural light, reducing how often a person needs to use electricity to illuminate a room. Light bulbs Watson recommends super efficient, Energy Star-rated light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs. “They can easily last three times longer than CFLs (compact fluorescent lamp) and as much as 25 times longer than incandescent bulbs,� he said. Wichman added that LED bulbs are more expensive to buy but that prices are dropping rapidly. CFLs are less expensive but also less efficient. “The logical way to upgrade and still save the most energy is to replace the bulbs that you burn most often first,� Wichman said. Hurst pointed out that the incandescent bulbs are being phased out since they use energy more to generate heat rather than to produce visible light.
John Watson, executive director of Fredericksburg Shines, has solar panels for generating electricity and thermal collectors for heating water. — Standard-Radio Post/Richard Zowie
Tips for ‘Green’ Living Fredericksburg Shines, online at www. fbgshines.org, offers various tips on energy conservation. Among them: t %JTIXBTIFST BOE DMPUIFT XBTIFST BOE dryers should be full before using. Major ap-
pliances consume large amounts of energy. t 8BTI DMPUIFT JO DPME XBUFS BOE MJOF ESZ t 4IVU EPXO BOE VOQMVH JEMF FMFDUSPOJDT t 4VQQPSU MPDBM GBSNFST ɼFJS QSPEVDU doesn’t have to be shipped in, and it tends to be fresher and more nutritious.
Hill Country Lawn & Landscaping Kevin MacWithey Professional Horticulturist
‡ %DFKHORU RI 6FLHQFH +RUWLFXOWXUH ‡ 7H[DV $ 0 6SHFLDOLVW LQ 7UHHV and Woody Plants ‡ 7H[DV $ 0 6SHFLDOLVW LQ 3HUHQQLDO DQG $QQXDO 3ODQWV ‡ 7H[DV &HUWLÀHG /DQGVFDSH Professional 443 CLP443 ‡ &HUWLÀHG 3URIHVVLRQDO 7XUIJUDVV 0DQDJHU &370 ‡ ,QWHUQDWLRQDO 6RFLHW\ RI $UERULFXOWXUH &HUWLÀHG $UERULVW ‡ ,6$ &HUWLÀHG $UERULVW 7; $
Landscape Design Landscape Construction Landscape Maintenance
6HDVRQDO &RORU ,QVWDOODWLRQ Landscape Consultant &RQVWUXFWLRQ 6LWH 7UHH 0DQDJHPHQW
kevin@hillcountrylandscapes.com hillcountrylandscapes.com
NM NML M L S4 S49 49 93 382 82 828
Grow with us. Let us ďŹ nance your home and land FINANCING
Ranch & Farm Land Home & Barn Construction Land Improvements Livestock & Equipment Operating Capital
Jacki Eckert NMLS 1146580
Jason Helfrich NMLS 691141
Trae’ Ottmers NMLS 612375
Fredericksburg | 830.992.2110 CapitalFarmCredit.com proud member of the Farm Credit System
9
10
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Energy solutions that make sense! Íť Z h > dZ/ />>^ Íť >K < /E &hZdhZ E Z'z K^d^ Íť dd Zz <hW KZ 'Z/ d/ Íť hE/Ed ZZhWd WKt Z
Íť Z DKd >/',d/E'
Íť 'K 'Z EÍŠ
Texas Native Trees Grown in Fredericksburg on Our Farm Specializaling in Big Tooth Maples from Lost Maples State Park today a FREE ANALYSIS CallCall today for for a FREE SOLAR SURVEY
(210) (210) 745-0509 912-5226
WWW.MOUNTAINTOPSOLAR.COM
‡ ,PSURYHG 7RS 6RLOV ‡ &RPSRVW ‡ 0XOFK ‡ 'HOLYHU\ ,QVWDOODWLRQ $YDLODEOH
Sam & JoAnn Watson
2OG 6DQ $QWRQLR 5RDG f )UHGHULFNVEXUJ 830-644-2616 f 210-844-6713
“The Hometown Lumberyardâ€? UĂŠ ՓLiĂ€ UĂŠ*>ÂˆÂ˜ĂŒ UĂŠ Â?iVĂŒĂ€ÂˆV>Â? UĂŠ >À“Ê UĂŠ >Ă€`Ăœ>Ă€i UĂŠ*Â?ՓLˆ˜} “Lˆ˜} UĂŠ/œœÂ?Ăƒ & Ranch 830.997.0322 1776 S. Hwy. 87
Fax 830.997.0420 Fredericksburg, Tx
"ÂŤiÂ˜ĂŠ ÂœÂ˜Â°ĂŠÂ‡ĂŠ Ă€ÂˆÂ°ĂŠĂ‡\ÎäʇÊx\ÎäÊUĂŠ->ĂŒÂ°ĂŠĂ‡\Îäʇʣ\ää Ç Îä x\
%8//'2=,1* ‡ 52$' &216758&7,21 ‡ +($9< (48,30(17 /$.(6 7$1.6 321'6 *8$5$17((' 7$1. 6($/,1* :$7(5 %5,'*(6
.HYLQ .UDPHU Construction
Mobile
Home
ALL EARTHWORK - ROADS, PADS, LAND CLEARING, HOMESITE PREPARATION, BUILDING PADS & DIRT HAULING. LANDSCAPE ROCK, GRANITE GRAVEL, TOP SOIL, FILL DIRT, PRESCRIBED BURNS & BRUSH PILE BURNING
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Garden shows and stores can give do-it-yourselfers a place to find plants that will thrive in their gardens. — StandardRadio Post file photo
Go it alone:
The warmer months provide homeowners an opportunity to take on some do-ityourself (DIY) projects to spruce up the home for the get-togethers and barbecues planned in the upcoming months. While remodeling a bathroom may require a higher level of expertise than an average homeowner has, homeowners can take on several projects to improve their house. There is only one chance to make a good impression and having a front door that stands out can welcome visitors to someone’s home. A fresh coat of paint on the door trim is an easy way for a homeowner to increase a home’s curb appeal.
Homeowners can spruce up the kitchen by investing in new hardware for kitchen cabinets. Be sure to bring an old knob or handle to the hardware store to ensure the new pieces will fit into the old holes. For apartment dwellers, adding a garden or planters to a balcony or patio can bring the aesthetics of a lawn to a concrete slab. Renters need to be sure to check with their landlords to ensure their ideal garden does not violate any rules. The second thing a gardener will need to consider is the climate of the patio. They need to pay attention to the amount of sunlight plants will receive and when. If a patio spends a majority of time in the
Take matters into your own hands with DIY projects shade, it is best suited for a different type of plant than a patio that receives hours of hot, afternoon sunlight. Work with staff at a local garden store to pick out flowers, herbs or other plants that will thrive in the patio’s climate. The garden store will also be able to provide soil, planters and other implements to complete the garden. In too deep? It is important to know what is doable and what is unsafe for an untrained worker to do. In those situations, it is wise to seek a contractor DO IT YOURSELF ▶16
11
12
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Texas grown home
The texture of a Lindheimer Muhly grass stands out within a mass of other plantings. — Photos courtesy Carol Feldman
Make your landscape sing with native plants By Carol Feldman Gardeners throughout Texas are discovering the benefits of native Texas plants. These indigenous plants use water in amounts similar to the natural rainfall, they resist our Central Texas climate conditions, and plants indigenous to each of Texas biomes creates an identity for that region of Texas. A ‘wildscape’ is a landscape that uses native plants and provides habitat through a natural landscape design. Native plants and natural landscapes go hand-in-hand. Native plants provide food for wildlife and a natural landscape style provides nesting, safety and water for wildlife. However, our urban culture requires a more orderly landscape look. Some gardeners provide this order by clipping, mowing, and generally grooming native plants to meet our human needs for order in the landscape. This works, but quite frankly, I’m too lazy for this approach.
Create order I approach this basic human need for order in the landscape from a design perspective. Using the fundamental design elements such as line, rhythm, accents, texture and color, we control the observer’s eye through the landscape and give order to a natural landscape. Rhythm is created by repeating a feature of the landscape. It can be achieved by the repetition of a particular shape, texture, or color. I often repeat hardscape (non-plant) shapes – sometimes all are of equal size, or of various sizes. Repetition of plants can be achieved through repeating plant textures and colors. Textures create contrast within a planting bed. The spiky texture of Paleleaf Yucca (Yucca pallida), Twisted Yucca (Yucca rupicola), or Lindheimer Muhly (Muhlenbergia lindheimeri) lure the eye, when placed in beds amongst the smaller, finer texture of native plants such as Salvia Greggi (Salvia greggii), and Zexmenia (Wedelia hispada). Line is extremely important to the native
landscape. A strong line in the landscape controls the viewer’s eye better than any other design element. Lines can be continuous, or dotted. Curved lines are generally relaxing and seem to correspond with a natural landscape. Remember that the eye will take in the complete arc of a curve. By controlling where the arc of a bed edge or line sits, you can control the view of your house or yard. Paths through the landscape can provide a line. The result is two-fold; paths get people where they travel, and a creative gardener will develop it into a pleasing design line. Other features that provide lines within a landscape include dry riverbeds, walls or patio edges. Use color Texas native perennials provide an abundance of color. Orange blooming native plants for our Central Texas landscapes are found in the long season blooming of Flame Acanthus (Anisacanthus quadrifidus wrightii), Texas Lantana (Lantana urticoides) and Texas Betony (Stachys coccinea), while the very useful evergreen Crossvine (Bignonia capreolata)
&Bloom
Spring 2015 (Bignonia capreolata) blooms for about two weeks. Texas Star Hibiscus (Hibiscus coccineus) is a very striking red, and is a great accent in the landscape. Cedar Sage (Salvia roemeriana) blooms in the shade. Turk’s Cap (Malvaviscus arboreus var. drummondii), Red Yucca (Hesperaloe parviflora), and red Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii ) are great hummingbird attractants with little water use. Hinkley’s Columbine (Aquilegia hinckleyi) blooms early and likes some shade. Other yellows prefer the sun; Zexmenia (Wedelia hispada), Blackeyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Sundrops(Calylophus spp.), and Four Nerve Daisy (Tetraneuris scaposa), are only a few. Blues and lavenders create a background and ‘fill-in’ the landscape. Mealy Blue Sage (Salvia farinacea), Fall Aster (Aster oblongifolius), Spiderwort (Tradescantia spp.), and Prairie Verbena (Verbena bipinnatifida) are some
of the blues that I frequently use in my blue and lavender native plant color pallet. Don’t forget white as a color! Some white perennials are Angel Trumpet (Datura wrightii), Gaura (Gaura lindheimeri), and white Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii). White blooming trees include the Kidneywood (Eysenhardtia texana), Mexican Plum (Prunus mexicana) and our local Roughleaf Dogwood (Cornus drummondii). Pinks are everywhere. The seed heads of the Gulf Muhly grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris) are a lovely cloud of pink when back lit by a morning or evening sun. Pink perennial bloomers for use in our landscapes are Rock Rose (Pavonia lasiopetala), pink Autumn Sage (Salvia greggii ), Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea), and Winecups (Callirhoe involucrata). There are many reasons to use native plants in our landscapes. Objections to native plants and
Colorful plantings include yellow Sundrops, red Autumn Sage and the grey foliage of non-native Powis Castle Artemisia.
natural landscapes seem to be the lack of order in the landscape. If we design our natural landscapes using architectural elements such as line, rhythm, accent, texture and color, then we can create the order that our human nature desires. At the same time, we can keep the ben-
efits that native plants provide for us and for wildlife. Carol Feldman is a landscape architect, state past president of the Native Plant Society of Texas, a member of the Dallas Chapter of NPSOT, and currently, chairperson of the Native Landscape Certification Program (NLCP) Steering Committee.
H. MOELLERING CONSTRUCTION, LLC Fredericksburg, TX 78624 830-997-7056 Land Clearing, Road Building (Red Granite Crushed Base), Tanks, Building Pads Land Preparation (Raking, Plowing), Cattle Guards, Cedar Shearing Customized Gates & Entrances, Concrete Dams & Crossings
Debbie & Harvey Moellering Jr. FFerrl, Freddie, Keven and Mikee
METAL BUILDINGS & BARNDOMINIUMS General Contracting Concrete & Dirt Work Marty Vaughn 830-990-0623 830-889-0000 www.texassteelbuildingsinc.com
13
14
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Pinning your way to a newer, fresher home By Matt Ward, Digital Media Director First it was magazines like Better Homes and Gardens (now with 545,000 followers on Google+) that provided a source of inspiration for crafty projects for millions nationwide. Then with the rise of television, shows like “This Old House” (now with 68,000 Twitter follows)brought home improvement and furniture craftsmanship to the masses. In the digital age, home improvement inspiration has found its way online, mainly through social media sites and the growing monolith of Do-It-Yourself projects, Pinterest. Check out some unique and creative ways home improvement is taking over the Internet by visiting my Pinterest page: www.pinterest. com/matt7963/.
Got some extra Mason jars and scrap wood lying around? Turn the shabby into chic by creating your own countrystyle wall lanterns to combine the practical and the artistic.
Step-by-step instruction on DIY projects can be found on Youtube. com or my “DIY Video Instruction” board.
Creating walkways using concrete and picture frames (above) is one of many amazing outdoor projects.
Twitter must follows
Home improvement help in 140 characters Norm Abram @NormAbramTOH master #carpenter from #TOHTV @ThisOldHouse and #NewYankeeWorkshop on @PBS Roger Cook @RogerCookTOH Landscape Contractor on @ThisOldHouse and @AskTOH Ask This Old House @AskTOH Season 13 now airing on @PBS
Tom Silva @TomSilvaTOH General Contractor of @ThisOldHouse and @AskTOH. Kevin O'Connor @KevinOConnorTOH Host of @ThisOldHouse & @AskTOH on @PBS
“Upcycling” used wooden pallets is a growing trend among DIY addicts, from creating accent walls (above) to backyard bars, benches or works of art. My “DIY Pallet Upcycling” board on Pinterest shows off some of the most cutting edge ways to make quality products on the cheap.
Richard Trethewey @thisoldplumber Plumbing and Heating Expert on This Old House and Ask This Old House Ty Pennington @typennington The official page of Ty Pennington, host of TNT's On The Menu and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition This Old House @ThisOldHouse The Official Twitter account for AMERICA'S MOST TRUSTED #HomeImprovement BRAND @PBS #TV show, magazine, books, and thisoldhouse.com - #DIY DIY Network @DIYNetwork The Home Improvement How-To Network
HGTV
@hgtv
Lowe's @Lowes Got a complaint, compliment or question? Let us know!
Need a hand? Help can be on the way quickly by giving one of Fredericksburg’s local home builders a call. Find them on GoFred, the premier Fredericksburg mobile app under the “Stay” category. GoFred can be downloaded via App Store or Google Play.
Fellas, Pinterest isn’t just for the ladies. There’s plenty of opportunities to liven up the man cave of your dreams, whether it’s ways to spruce up your home theater set up or making custom glasses out of old beer bottles (above).
Bob Vila @BobVila The Official Twitter Account of Bob Vila, America's Handyman. And the original salt-and-pepper beard. pinterest.com/bobvilahome | facebook.com/bobvila BuildDirect @builddirect Home improvement made simple. For Less. The world's leading online source for home improvement products & building supplies. The Home Depot @HomeDepot Let's do what it takes to go from to-do to done. Get the latest tips and tricks to unleash the doer in you. Tell us what project you are working on! #LetsDoThis HGTV Design Happens @hgtvdecorating Welcome to the official Twitter page for HGTV.com's design blog, Design Happens.
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Jordan Restoration, Inc. Hill Country Division P.O. Box 395 Harper, Texas 78631-0564 ‡ )D[ 830-864-5168 Proudly serving our Hill Country Neighbors in their time of need! Founded in 1995
www.jordanrestoration.com Thanks for the business!
HĂŠ ÂœĂœĂŠ"vviĂ€ÂˆÂ˜}ĂŠH USDA CertiďŹ ed Organic
Vegetable Plants UĂŠ iÂˆĂ€Â?ÂœÂœÂ“ĂŠ/œ“>ĂŒÂœiĂƒ]ĂŠÂŤÂ?Ă•ĂƒĂŠ"ĂŒÂ…iÀÊ6>Ă€ÂˆiĂŒÂˆiĂƒÂ° UĂŠ Ă•Â?ÂŽĂŠEĂŠ*>VÂŽ>}i`ĂŠ6i}iĂŒ>LÂ?iÉ Ă€Ă•ÂˆĂŒĂŠ-ii`Ăƒ >Ă€`i˜ˆ˜}ĂŠ-œˆÂ?]ĂŠ iĂ€ĂŒÂˆÂ?ÂˆĂ˘iÀÊEĂŠ ÂœÂ“ÂŤÂœĂƒĂŒ UĂŠ ÂˆĂ€`ĂŠ-ii`ĂŠEĂŠ ii`iĂ€Ăƒ
Lawn & Garden Supplies Looking for something special? We will be happy to order it for you.
509 Longhorn St. (off San Antonio Hwy) www.lochtefeed.com
830-997-2256 0RQ )UL D P S P ‡ 6DW D P S P
15
&Bloom
16
Spring 2015
Do it yourself
Cont. from 11
to do the project. Deciding who to hire to do the different aspects of a job requires careful consideration. A good place to start is by checking out a company’s references and reputation. Here is a checklist to follow: v9HULI\ WKH FRQWUDFWRU V OLFHQVLQJ DQG insurance.
v0DNH VXUH WKH FRQWUDFWRU KDV DW OHDVW oYH \HDUV H[SHULHQFH DQG LV DQ H[SHUW doing the type of work in mind. v&RQWDFW D %HWWHU %XVLQHVV %XUHDX RU WKH &LW\ RI )UHGHULFNVEXUJ WR VHH LI information on a possible contractor is DYDLODEOH v$VN KRZ PDQ\ MREV OLNH WKH RQH EHLQJ considered the contractor has com-
pleted. v$VN IRU H[DPSOHV RI ZRUN WKH FRQWUDFtor has done on other projects. v$VN WKH FRQWUDFWRU IRU UHIHUHQFHV from 10 current and/or past clients who KDYH KDG VLPLODU ZRUN GRQH 0RVW EXVLness comes to a good contractor from UHIHUUDOV VR LQYHVWLJDWH WKHVH UHIHUHQFHV Randomly call at least three.
When Quality Counts 6HUYLQJ 7KH (QWLUH 7H[DV +LOO &RXQWU\ ‡ 2XU 5RRIV ,QVWDOOHG 7R 7H[DV :LQG 6WRUP &RGH
)RU $OO <RXU 5RR¿QJ 1HHGV ‡ 1HZ &RQVWUXFWLRQ 5H 5RRIV DQG 5HSDLUV &RPSRVLWLRQ ‡ :RRG ‡ /RZ 6ORSH ‡ 0HWDO a )5(( (67,0$7(6 a <($5 :5,77(1 /$%25 :$55$17< 21 &203/(7( 5(¹522)6 +XQGUHGV RI 5HIHUHQFHV $YDLODEOH ,QVXUDQFH &ODLPV 6SHFLDOLVW ,QVXUHG )RU <RXU 3URWHFWLRQ
&DOO 6WHYH .QHHVH IRU DOO RI \RXU URRÂżQJ DQG JHQHUDO FRQVWUXFWLRQ QHHGV 6.URRÂżQJ#URFNHWPDLO FRP
830-733-7672
J.K. Pools, Inc. Fredericksburg Pool Haus Jodee Kowert CUSTOM IN-GROUND POOLS AND SPAS
s ,ATEST 4ECHNOLOGIES !VAILABLE s 7ATER &EATURES s -AINTENANCE &RIENDLY $ESIGN s 0OOL AND 3PA 3UPPLIES s 0OOL -AINTENANCE
,Ĺ?Ĺ?ŚĞĆ?Ćš YƾĂůĹ?ƚLJ DĞƚĂů ĆľĹ?ĹŻÄšĹ?ĹśĹ? ŽŜĆ?ĆšĆŒĆľÄ?Ć&#x;ŽŜ DĞƚĂů ŽŜĆ?ĆšĆŒĆľÄ?Ć&#x;ŽŜ WĆŒĹ˝ĹŠÄžÄ?ĆšĆ? ŽĨ ĹŻĹŻ ^Ĺ?njĞĆ? ĆľĆ?ƚŽž Ä‚ĆŒĹśÄšĹ˝ĹľĹ?ĹśĹ?ƾžĆ? Íť WĆŒĹ˝Ä¨ÄžĆ?Ć?Ĺ?ŽŜĂů tĞůĚĹ?ĹśĹ?
830-990-4162 . ,LANO 3TREET &REDERICKSBURG 48 -ONDAY &RIDAY A M P M
FOR FREE ESTIMATES CALL QUINT KUNZ, (830) 377-6143
&Bloom
Spring 2015
17
HESTER
WINDOW COVERINGS 6HUYLQJ 7KH 7H[DV +LOO &RXQWU\ 6LQFH ZLWK HYHU\WKLQJ IRU WKH ZLQGRZ H[FHSW WKH YLHZ
Experienced professionals who take care of you from start to finish! ‡ &XVWRP 'UDSHV ‡ 7RS 7UHDWPHQWV ‡ :RRG 0LQL %OLQGV ‡ &XVWRP 6KXWWHUV ‡ 6KDGHV $OO 7\SHV ‡ ([W 6XQ 6KDGH Screens
‡ 5HSODFHPHQW :LQGRZV ‡ 6WRUP :LQGRZV 'RRUV ‡ $OXPLQXP 6FUHHQV ‡ $ZQLQJV 0HWDO &DQYDV ‡ 6XQVFUHHQ
“Product Knowledge...Product Quality�
4XLQODQ ‡ .HUUYLOOH ‡ RU 0RQ )UL or anytime by appointment
Celebrating 87 years of serving the Texas Hill Country 6RXWK $GDPV ‡ )UHGHULFNVEXUJ 7H[DV 997-4382
18
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Recycling:
A landfill space saver
City accepts plastics, paper, cans and much more By Ken Esten Cooke Last year, the City of Fredericksburg and private recyclers collected more than 900 tons of materials for recycling. That keeps the staff at the city’s recycling center busy and it keeps that much material out of the city landfill. Yet the opportunity to do more exists. The city operates this service at a deficit, but it is something that local citizens want to have. And the savings in landfill space also accounts for a financial savings, estimated at more than $34,000 annually. Both city
and county residents are welcomed to drop off their recycling materials at the center, yet costs are only incurred by city residents. And even though we’ve all read or heard “Reduce. Reuse. Recycle� a million times, locals are still getting into the habit when it comes to recycling. To improve our efforts, we might look to Germany, for which we owe much of our culture and tradition. Germany incinerates 35 percent of its garbage, composts 18 percent and recycles 47 percent. Each German city came up with its own way of
Scott Stewart pushes plastic containers into a compactor machine at Fredericksburg Recycling Center.
Driveway Problems?
MULTIPLE isLAYER CHIP SEAL the answer! Specializing in Private Roads, Asphalt Surfacing, Repairs, New Roads, Ranch Roads, Parking Lots, Driveways Huge Savings while Equipment and Crews are in Gillespie County. Free Estimates 325-655-5746 Owner’s cell RIÀFH
&Bloom
Spring 2015 curbside recycling, though most methods ended up very similar. According to city statistics, each person in Fredericksburg generates 4.5 pounds of trash every day, which amounts to 1.5 tons a year. Of that, 75 percent is recyclable, though on average only 30 percent is recycled. Curbside recycling would make it easier on residents, but that idea would require a substantial investment in terms of both customer materials and collection manpower. Still, Fredericksburg’s efforts are commendable in that most small towns do little to any recycling, due to the smaller economy of scale required with the operation. Still, residents are encouraged to continue using the center. If locals could lift their recycling efforts from 30 percent of recyclable materials to 40 percent, it could pay dividends in landfill savings. More recycling means less land that has to be used for the landfill. And for an area that prides itself on Hill Country beauty, the need for less landfill space is a prize in itself.
Local recycling by material Corrugated cardboard Used newsprint Magazines Office waste Plastic baled Steel Mixed paper Aluminum Plastic mixed Hardback books
37% 29% 13% 6% 5% 4% 3% 1% 1% 1%
* Statistics courtesy City of Fredericksburg
Got metal?
Here are two local places to recycle metal. Fredericksburg Metal Recycling 279 Shorty Crenwelge Dr Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 990-4400 ACI Recycling & Disposal 517 E Highway St Fredericksburg, TX 78624 (830) 997-4563
Recycling Coordinator Reinaldo Noriega works the cardboard crusher. Cardboard is the most-recycled material at the plant. — Standard-Radio Post photo City of Fredericksburg Recycling Center 302 E. Ufer St. Fredericksburg, TX 78624 Hours: Mon - Wed: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Thurs: Closed for processing; Fri: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.; Sat: 8 a.m. - Noon; Sun: Closed Recycling Coordinator - Reinaldo Noreiga Operator - Scott Stewart
Whether building or restoring a home, I want to help you incorporate your unique needs and individual tastes to create a home that is truly your own.
705 South Adams H 830.990.6603 www.rickschaferhomes.com H rschafer@hctc.net
/ŶĚŝǀŝĚƵĂůůLJ ƌĂŌĞĚ͘ džĐůƵƐŝǀĞůLJ zŽƵƌƐ͘
19
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Let us help you create your new frontier
10% off all New Installations Spr Installing a & Rep tion Speciaair ls
830-997-9579 TX LI 14257
FREE ESTIMATES
Fully Insured
www.frontierirrigation.com Residential & Commercial Repairs, Landscape Lighting, and Lawn Care Contracts
10% 300
OFF
With Coupon, Not Valid With Any Other Offer Exp. 12/31/15
Complete Irrigation System
$
OFF
With Coupon, Not Valid With Any Other Offer Exp. 12/31/15
Garden Ponds Lawn Maintenance Granite Pathways And More Sprinkler System
ystems Rock Hardscapes Landscape Installation Rock Patios
atios Garden Ponds Lawn Maintenance Granite Pathways And More Sprinkler S
20
s Rock Hardscapes Fountains Landscape Installation Rock P
Custom Homes Remodels Design/Build FREE! Complete Home Design When We Build Your Home
Distinctive Homes PO Box 2282 Fredericksburg, TX 830.370.2070 www.distinctivehomes-tx.com
&Bloom
Spring 2015
HILL COUNTRY GARDENS, LLC “The Xeriscape Guys” 'HVLJQ %XLOG
www.hcgardens.com
Commercial & Residential Call 830-990-8792 Jeff Hallford, Owner 309 Hallford Lane Fredericksburg, TX 78624 e-mail: hcgardens@verizon.net
www.probuild.com
INSPIRING IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME
ProBuild offers a complete solution for all of your building needs. With high quality lumber, custom trusses, and a robust selection of building products, we can provide you with the best materials for the foundation of your home. But ProBuild doesn’t stop there. We also offer a full line of windows and doors to put the final touches on a product you will be proud to put your name on. If you need it, we have it. Please call or come in today with all of your building needs.
BUILDING MATERIALS 1119 HWY 16 SOUTH FREDERICKSBURG, TX 78624 830.997.2106
LAKEWAY DESIGN CENTER 1010 RR 620 SOUTH, SUITE 101 LAKEWAY, TX 78734 512.263.2612
21
22
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Farmers Market
Fresh fruits and vegetables straight from the gardens of local producers can be found each Thursday at the Fredericksburg Farmer’s Market. The market opens May 7 and continues through the summer on Marktplatz. — Standard-Radio Post file photo
Decorators Unlimited pĹ&#x; åÞÞŀÑÎÄ Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;pĹ&#x;DKĂĄĂĄÄ&#x;KÄ&#x;„ŀ Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;pĹ&#x;7KĂ‘ĂŽĹŁĹ„Ĺ&#x;WĹ&#x;:ĹŁKĂ‘ĂŽĹ„ Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;pĹ&#x;DĂ‘ĂŽzÞƉĹ&#x; ÞƇ„ŀÑÎÄń pĹ&#x; Ĺ€qĂ?Ñţ„qţźŀKĂĄĹ&#x; ĂžKĹŁĂ‘ĂŽĂ„Ĺ„ Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;pĹ&#x; ÞÎqŀ„ţ„Ĺ&#x;:ĹŁKĂ‘ĂŽ Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;Ĺ&#x;WĹ&#x;:„Kå„ŀń 501 E Highway St Fredericksburg 830-997-6203
A chance to buy locally grown food will be offered every Thursday, rain or shine, from 4-7 p.m., starting May 7 and continuing through the summer in downtown Fredericksburg. The local producer/grower-only market, Fredericksburg Farmer’s Market (FFM) is celebrating its eighth year with support from Capital Farm Credit. Farmers will be on hand each week with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables along with meats, goat cheese, eggs, Gulf seafood, baked goods, wine, lavender and more. Meals and snacks are available to purchase, and live music is featured during the event. Pizza baked in a wood burning oven, soups, salads, sliders and pastries are all made with local ingredients and can be enjoyed picnic-style under the pavilion. Wine from local wineries can be purchased by the glass or bottle and non-alcoholic iced beverages are also served. At the Chef’s Corner, visitors will find free samples prepared by local chefs using ingredients from the market. Chefs and volunteers are available to answer questions about how to cook the dish being sampled. For more information, visit fredericksburgfarmersmarket.com. A fall farmer’s market is also planned.
Tatsch Well Service Service & Repair in the Hill Country For Home & Ranch Since 1973
q 6XEPHUVLEOHV q -HWV q 3UHVVXUH 7DQNV q :LQGPLOOV q 6RODU 3XPSV 'HQQLV 6 7DWVFK Owner
q )UHGHULFNVEXUJ ZZZ +LOO&RXQWU\:DWHU:HOO FRP ,QVXUHG /LFHQVHG %RQGHG /LFHQVH ./3
Let us help you with your new home or remodeling project! COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL s 2%0!)2 2%-/$%, s .%7 ).34!,,!4)/. s 7!4%2 3%7%2 ,).%3 PROMPT COURTEOUS SERVICE
(830) 997-0020 www.reehplumbing.com Fax 830-990-0384 Fredericksburg, TX
“OUR GUARANTEE IS WATER TIGHT�
Spring 2015
Curtis Staudt Construction
&Bloom
Quality Built Custom Homes Restoration & Remodel Over 40 Years Experience In Fredericksburg And The Hill Country
830-997-4729
2585 White Oak Road Fredericksburg
Fax: 830-997-4709
UGLY TUB?
Make it look Brand new REGLAZE For up to 70%
less than replacement
UGLY CABINETS? REFACE-DON'T REPLACE with beautifully crafted hardwood or custom painted cabinet doors and drawers. SAVE THOUSANDS over new cabinets.
UGLY COUNTERTOPS?
We resurface countertops HUNDREDS of different styles and colors.
Doug Burns’ Restoration Surface
‡ ZZZ UHVWRUDWLRQVXUIDFH FRP
SUPERIOR SERVICES TREE CARE
RESTORATION FINISH EXPERTS SKILLED – SEASONED – GENUINE www.ColorsofTexasPainting.com
830.998.9007
23
24
&Bloom
Spring 2015
Our Furniture Gives Back other furniture gives way From Roll Butter to Roll Top Desks Authentic in Design and Construction 410 West Main Street 139 East Main Street 830-990-2977 830-992-3456 amishmkt.com Willkommen Cheerfully Open: Mon-Fri: 10-5 and Sun: 10-4
nursery and landscape
ůĂŶĚƐĐĂƉĞ ĐŽŶƐƵůƚĂƟŽŶ design build ŶĂƟǀĞ ĂŶĚ ĂĚĂƉƚĞĚ ƉůĂŶƚƐ ŐŝŌƐ ͻ ŽƌŐĂŶŝĐ ƉƌŽĚƵĐƚƐ ͻ ƉŽƩĞƌLJ 1107 N. Llano ~ Fredericksburg ~ 830-997-6288