Valley Home, Lawn & Garden 2019

April 2019

How to control crabgrass before it appears

 6 options for funding your next home improvement project  How builders can keep radon from entering a home  Gray is here to stay in home designs  And more!

Le Sueur County News | St. Peter Herald

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SPRING HOME & GARDEN

April 2019

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April 2019

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How to control crabgrass before it appears

(Metro) How many times have you sat on the sofa pouring over a home magazine wishing your rooms could be ripped from its pages? Some people are gifted with a natural talent to impart a space with perfectly balanced colors and schemes that fit with one’s lifestyle and design preferences.

Others are not as equipped.

But that doesn’t mean design has to suffer. An interior designer with knowledge and resources who’s in your corner can make all the difference.

Many people are hesitant to bring in professional designers because of cost. But contrary to popular belief, working with an interior decorator is not something reserved for the rich and famous. Designers actually can save homeowners

money in the long run. A good designer will choose the right amount of high-quality elements that will be durable and timeless. This means less money will ultimately be spent on replacing cheap materials or redesigning rooms that have gone out of style.

According to the design experts at Homepolish, utilizing a designer to transform a space can create rooms that are more in tune and balanced with homeowners’ needs - helping to improve mood and functionality.

That can extend to other areas of a person’s life and well-being.

Putting the task of designing a home’s interior in someone else’s hands frees up time to focus on other projects as well.

Designers can look at a space with a careful eye and not

be influenced by items that have sentimental attachment. He or she can help decide if anything should be repurposed or removed. Plus, an interior designer can help homeowners stay on budget.

Designers also can serve as liaisons for clients who have difficulty communicating with builders and architects. Designers are trained to think about things that homeowners tend to overlook, such as placement of lighting, outlets and room flow.

He or she also likely has contacts within the industry that can be utilized, saving even more time and money.

A good designer can be worth the investment. The end results will be an interior that homeowners will be proud to call home.

A special publication of the Le Sueur County News and St. Peter Herald Publisher Chad Hjellming Media Consultants Kathleen Davies Mark Mears Gayle Stelten

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Spring Home, Lawn & Garden April 2019 is distributed to subscribers and readers of the Le Sueur County News and St. Peter Herald at no additional charge. All rights reserved. ©2019 All advertising contained herein is the responsibility of the advertiser.

(Metro) Homeowners who enjoy tending to their lawns know that grass is vulnerable to a host of problems, many of which appear at a time of year when lawn enthusiasts want to showcase the fruits of their lawn-and-garden labors.

Crabgrass is a common problem that appears in summer. According to Lowes, crabgrass plants produce thousands of seeds between midsummer and early fall. While the first frosts of late-fall or early win-

ter kill the crabgrass plants, the seeds produced by the plants remain dormant throughout winter and then begin to grow as the ground temperature warms up with the spring and summer thaw. As a result, controlling germination, which is the development of a plant from a seed or spore after a period of dormancy, is the key to preventing crabgrass from becoming an unsightly blemish that can harm your lawn in summer.

A proactive approach to

crabgrass can save homeowners the headaches of dealing with this unwanted guest taking over their grass. The following tips, courtesy of Lowes, can help homeowners reduce the likelihood of their lawns being overcome by crabgrass as summer hits full swing.

• Recognize that routine lawn maintenance may not be enough. Even lawns that receive

CRABGRASS Continued on page 7

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SPRING HOME & GARDEN

April 2019

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(Metro) Heat waves are an inevitable part of summer in many places across the globe.

While humans can escape indoors to air conditioned rooms when heat waves hit full swing, flowers planted around a property have no such luxury, putting their survival in jeopardy whenever the mercury rises to especially steamy heights.

Wilted flowers that have succumbed to the summer sun are a sight many gardening enthusiasts can recognize. But there are ways to keep flowers safe and vibrant during periods of extreme heat.

• ater at the a ro riate times of day. The National Gardening Association notes that it’s best to water in the early morning and evening because less water will be lost to evaporation during these times of day than during the afternoon, when temperatures tend to be at their hottest.

• hoo e the right atering method. It’s not just when but also how you water that can affect flowers during summer heat waves. Aboveground sprinklers might be great for lawns, but the NGA notes that such sprinklers can encourage the spread of disease on certain plants, including roses. Many gardening professionals recommend soaker hoses when watering flowers because they promote deep watering that can help the plants withstand the summer heat. If you must use an overheard watering system, set the timer so plants are watered in early in the morning or evening.

• Routine chec the oi moisture. Soil moisture can help gardeners determine if their flowers have enough water to withstand the heat. The NGA advises gardeners to dig a 12inch deep wedge of soil from their gardens to determine its moisture levels. If the top six inches of the soil is dry, water. If

that area is still wet or moist, the plants have enough moisture to ith tan the heat hec the e moisture levels more frequently during heat waves than other times of year.

• oi o er atering o ice gardeners may be tempted to water more frequently when they see wilted leaves on their flowers. But wilted leaves are not necessarily indicative of suffering plants. Plants release moisture to protect themselves from excessive heat, and that release of moisture can cause leaves to wilt as the plants try to protect themselves by providing less surface area that can be exposed to the sun. So long as soil moisture levels are healthy, the flowers should be fine, even if their leaves have wilted.

No gardener wants to see their flowers succumb to the summer heat. Fortunately, there are many ways to help flowers survive heat waves.

April 2019

SPRING HOME & GARDEN

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Pool safety starts with prevention

(Metro) Pools make some backyards the places to be in late spring and throughout summer.

Lazy summer afternoons are a lot more enjoyable when they’re spent in or alongside a pool, and kids tend to say ‘IÕm bored’ with considerably less frequency when a pool is within arm’s reach.

Pools are certainly fun, but they’re only as fun as they are safe. According to the USA Swimming Foundation, between Memorial Day and Labor Day in 2018, at least 148 children younger than age 15 fatally drowned in swimming pools or spas. While those figures represented a 9 percent decline from the year prior, 148 deaths is still 148 lives lost too early.

Pool safety need not come at the expense of summer fun.

In fact, homeowners can employ

various preventive measures to reduce the risk of pool-related accidents on their properties.

• n ect gate aroun our pool. The International Code Council¨, a member-focused association dedicated to the construction of safe, sustainable, affordable, and resilient structures, advises homeowners to inspect all pedestrian gates in the barrier fences around their pools. Such gates should be self-closing and self-latching, as both features ensure gates are always closed. In addition, the ICC recommends padlocking other gates around the property.

• Re o e o ect aroun pedestrian gates. Kids can climb up on chairs, tables, large toys, and other objects left around pool gates to gain access to pools even when their parents aren’t looking or even home. Such

items should be removed.

• n ta a oo a ar oo alarms can alert homeowners to accidental or unauthorized entrance into the water. The ICC recommends installing such alarms while noting that they should not be considered a substitute for barrier fences or safety covers.

• n ta auto atic or anually operated pool covers. Pool covers can effectively prevent access to pools, spas or hot tubs.

At the end of each pool session, cover the pool, even during the height of summer when pools are used daily. The minor task of covering the pool is worth the considerably lower risk of accident or injury if pools remain uncovered.

Summer afternoons at the pool can be made much safer by adhering to a few safety tips.

GRUBS (Metro) Many an amateur

ready done substantial damage to a lawn. Oddly enough, one of the telltales signs of a grub infestation is not the grubs themselves but the animals looking to dine on them. Fully grown grubs make for hearty meals, so homeowners who notice raccoons, skunks, armadillos, and/or birds digging up their lawns may have a grub infestation. That’s because

these unwanted guests like to dine on mature grubs who have spent summer feasting on organic matter in the soil. Another sign of a possible grub infestation is a lawn that feels spongy when stepped on. Patches of dead grass that peel back easily are a sign that grubs have eaten the roots that keep healthy grass in place.

landscaper has encountered grubs while tending to their lawns, but even the most attentive green thumber may have a lawn infested with grubs and not know it. According to the pest an ee e ert at Roun u grubs often go unnoticed until late summer, when they’ve al-

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April 2019

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(Metro) Before starting a home improvement project, either on one’s own or with the assistance of a professional contractor, homeowners must first consider the costs involved. According to the home improveent re ource o e i or more than one-third of homeowners do not understand what hiring a professional will cost, and then cannot successfully budget and secure financing once they have set their sights on a renovation project.

o e i or a that some of the more popular projects, such as remodeling a kitchen or bathroom or building a deck, can cost, on average, $19,920, $9,274 and $6,919, respectively.

o eo ner a n that the more expensive renovations require them to secure some type of financing. Those who have never before sought such financing may want to consider these options.

a h out re nancing With cash-out refinancing, a person will begin the mortgage process anew with the intention of paying off the current mortgage balance, and then taking out

additional funds for other purposes. Cash-out refinancing is a way to tap into a home’s existing equity for use on improvements or other expenses, such as college tuition.

o e e uit ine o cre it e nancia e ert at an rate in icate that a

works like a credit card, with the house as collateral. There is a credit limit, and borrowers can spend up to that limit. The interest rate may or may not be e o e er the intere t a be tax-deductible if the financing is used to improve, buy or build a home.

o e e uit oan n ividuals also can borrow against equity in their homes with a fixed interest rate through a home equity loan. Most lenders will calculate 80 percent of the home value and subtract a homeowner’s mortgage balance to figure out how much can be borrowed, according to the financial advisory site The Simple Dollar.

er ona oan o eowners can shop around at various financial institutions for competitive personal loans to be used for home improvement

purposes. Funds may be ap-e proved within one business day,l which can be ideal for those whow want to begin their improve-o m ments soon.

er ona ine o cre it A personal line of credit allowst borrowers to borrow only thee money needed at the time, ando offers a variable interest rate thati is generally lower than fixed loani rates. Again, like a credit card,k gi e a er on a a i-t mum borrowing amount and isr i ideal for ongoing purchases.

re it car n a inch 2 credit cards can be used to fi-r nance improvements, but they doc come with the cost of very highc interest rates if the balance is notm paid in full by the time the bill co e ue o e er or un ing p smaller projects and maximizingp rewards points through home improvement retailers or specifici credit card company promotions, credit cards can be a way to earn various perks in addition to the benefit of improving a home. C

o eo ner oo ing to -s nance their next improvementst should speak to a financial advi-g sor and shop around for the bestm types of funding for them. t b

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April 2019

SPRING HOME & GARDEN

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SPRING CLEANING

(Metro) Kitchen remodels are among the most popular home renovation projects, whether they consist of swapping -out cabinet hardware or doing major demolition. ue to the heer a ount o

time families spend in the kitcheen, not to mention the number of tasks performed in this space, it is easy to see why Remodeling agazine con i tent ran kitchen renovations as projects that will enable homeowners to recoup a high percentage of their in e t ent n the agazine 2018 ‘Cost vs. Value’ report, mid range major kitchen remodels costing an average of $63,829 recouped 59 percent of that investment.

When investing in a kitchen project, it is important to incor porate items that are coveted.

• ee

ou e in a e ing a double sink enables you to

soak dishes in one side and then wash on the other. It also makes it easy to wash and prep produce for meals.

• itchen island and ar too en though many meals are enjoyed around the table, thereÕs something to be said for the convenience of a kitchen island and some we l l - pl a c e d bar stools for quick breakfasts or snacks.

• art itchen torage Work with a contractor to include storage solutions built into

cabinetry and the pantry. Slideout shelving, nooks for a paper towel roll and custom-designed areas to store stand mixers and other necessities can make kitchens more functional.

• ut oor acce o sible, design a kitchen so it is easy to access the backyard via sliding doors.

This can make outdoor entertaining or even coffee on the deck much easier.

• n er ca inet ighting Fixtures installed under cabinets provide both ambient lighting

and task lighting. Such lighting makes it easier to see what you’re working on as well, as even wellplaced overhead lighting can fail to illuminate dark corners and spots on the counters.

• on enient ar ing ra er i a iance ro i e backup to the oven. It’s a slideout drawer that can keep prepared foods out of the way and warm until they are ready to be served. This is particularly handy for holidays and other entertaining.

• e erage tation e ignate one area of the kitchen to beverages, such as coffee and tea.

Or make the area an informal bar. This can limit traffic in the kitchen to a single area.

Kitchen remodels are exciting to envision, and several choices can make these hightraffic spaces even more coveted.

patterns. For example, Lowes notes that homeowners who live in regions that might have experienced warmer than usual winters will probably need to apply the herbicides earlier than usual.

While the manufacturer instructions should always be followed when applying herbicides, it’s essential that homeowners take weather patterns into consideration as well.

• ait unti the groun te perature rises above 60 F. Applying herbicides when the ground temperature is below 60 F might

render the products ineffective.

Gauging soil temperature can be tricky, but Lowes advises monitoring shrubs and trees on the property. Once shrubs begin to bloom and trees bud, herbicide can be applied.

• ait hen treating ne seeded lawns. Pre-emergent herbicides might kill new grass seedlings, so homeowners with newly seeded lawns should wait until they have mowed their lawns three times before applying a herbicide.

• ha ize uni or a -

plication. If a herbicide is not applied uniformly across the lawn, crabgrass can establish itself and ultimately spread to the rest of the lawn.

• o not thatch or aerate a ter applying a herbicide. Thatching or aerating a lawn after applying a herbicide might break the product’s chemical barrier, thereby rendering it ineffective.

Crabgrass can quickly spread on an untreated lawn. A proactive approach that prevents its growth can keep lawns looking great through summer.

-

CRABGRASS

o Continued from page 3 -sufficient TLC can fall victim sto crabgrass. A proactive, crab-grass-specific approach to lawn tmaintenance is the most effective way to control the problem before it pops up. a re e ergent her • bicide. Pre-emergent herbicides kill crabgrass seedlings as they germinate. While these herbicides are highly effective, they must be applied at precisely the right time. The right time to apply them depends on weather

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(Metro) Spring cleaning is a ritual in many homes, though some might be forgetting to address an area of their homes that can be especially vulnerable to insect infestations. According to PestWorld.org, kitchen cabinets and pantries used to store spices and baking items, such as flour, can make for inviting hideouts for various types of pests.

These unwelcome guests include beetles, Indian meal moths and ants. To remedy this issue or prevent insects from becoming an issue, discard stale spices or dated baking items. Once such items have been removed

from the cabinets and pantry and discarded, wipe down the interior of the spaces before installing fresh shelf paper. If the critters didn’t make their presence known in the cabinets, that doesn’t mean they haven’t made your kitchen home over the winter. Some might have opted to spend their winters behind appliances, including the stove and the refrigerator. As a result, it’s best to pull these appliances off the wall each spring, sweeping or vacuuming the dust and crumbs you find before mopping the floors.

TO THE ROOT OF IT

(Metro) Oxygen is essential for the roots of grass to breathe and grow strong enough to support healthy lawns. But according to the Center for gricu ture oo an the nvironment at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, compacted soil can produce a decrease in oxygen content that can make it hard for roots to thrive. Soil compaction can result from a number of activities, including walking on grass or driving or parking vehicles on grass. When soil is compacted, it breaks into small particles that

reduce the amount of pore space in the soil. That makes it hard for water, oxygen and nutrients to get through, threatening the strength of the roots and putting the grass in jeopardy. Aerating a lawn can help homeowners foster strong root growth and healthy grass. When to aerate may be contingent upon local climate, so homeowners who suspect the soil in their yards is compact should consult with a local landscaping professional to determine the best time to aerate their lawns.

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SPRING HOME & GARDEN

April 2019

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(Metro) When the season for outdoor entertaining arrives, time spent in the yard entertaining friends and family tends to increase. Barbecuing lends itself well to informal warm weather gatherings.

While spending time outside, many pet owners like to have their furry companions nearby so they can enjoy the fresh air and fun as well. However, allowing pets outdoors when grilling or entertaining friends requires some forethought to ensure pets stay safe.

Watch the leftovers As diners finish their meals, they may leave scraps strewn around on plates. The occasional nibble here and there may not be overly problematic, but if a dog or cat gets into a food he or she shouldn’t eat, the consequences can be anything from gastrointestinal distress to severe allergic reaction. Any raw meat or seafood can pose a danger to pets.

Other foods that can be toxic for a dog include avocado (and guacamole), garlic, onions, grapes, peaches, and chocolate.

Grilling The act of grilling can be hazardous to pets that can’t resist the aromas of food cooking.

Dogs or cats may be drawn to the succulent smells without realizing that there are hot coals or gas nearby. It may be safer to keep animals leashed or contained until the grill has been extinguished to prevent burns and other injuries.

No bones about it It may be tempting to toss a dog a bone from the grill, but the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention warns pet owners against feeding their dogs or cats chicken on the bone due to the risk of the bone splintering and causing intestinal obstruction. Even large bones can splinter. Owners who want to offer bones to their dogs should consult with a vet about which types of bones are safe, or

look for a manufactured bone from the pet store.

Alcoholic beverages Both dogs and cats are sensitive to alcoholic beverages, offers the environmental wellness resource TreeHugger.

In addition, the APOP warns that even a few ounces of beer or wine can be poisonous to a dog or cat. Discard halfdrained wine glasses and beer bottles promptly.

Fireworks If fireworks are part of the festivities, make sure to keep skittish pets away. The loud sounds and brilliant sights can frighten pets, and an animal may dart out of the yard to escape, getting lost or injured in the process.

Pet owners must emphasize safety when grilling and entertaining outdoors with their pets in tow.

April 2019

SPRING HOME & GARDEN

PAGE 9

6 ways to make bathrooms a safer place

(Metro) Homes should be safe havens. But each year injuries in and around the home contribute to millions of medical visits and many fatalities each year.

Although anywhere in a home can be the scene of an accident, bathrooms tend to be the most dangerous room in the house. Slippery tile, the presence of water, stockpiled medications, and many sharp and hard edges in a small space pose several different hazards in the bathroom, particularly for young children and people age 65 and up. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says falls, which can result in serious injuries like hip fractures and head trauma, are the cause of 80 percent of all bathroom accidents.

Many bathroom accidents are preventable with some easy modifications.

1. Reduce slippery surfaces.

Wet tile is a recipe for slick conditions. Bath rugs with rubber backing can provide traction in the bathroom, as can nonslip mats placed on the floor of the bathtub or shower enclosure.

Water-resistant flooring made from recycled rubber is another option. It is softer, less slippery and more forgiving than traditional tile flooring.

2. Install lever-style fixtures.

Round knobs in the bathroom can be difficult to grasp, especially for the elderly or those with arthritis. Lever-style fixtures are easier to maneuver and can help alleviate scalding from not being able to adequately adjust the wa-

ter temperature.

3. Utilize transfer benches and shower seats. A transfer bench can help reduce injuries that occur when trying to climb over a tub wall. Benches are placed outside of the tub and a person sits and then swings his legs over the ledge. Transfer benches also can be used in conjunction with shower seats. This is a chair or bench that allows people to sit while they shower.

4. Discard old medications.

Clean out the medicine cabinet of old or expired medications, including both prescription and over-the-counter drugs. This reduces the likelihood of medication confusion, and does not put potentially harmful pills and syrups into the hands of children.

5. Install grab bars. Properly

installed grab bars around the shower and toilet area can provide leverage and stability. AARP says many injuries to seniors occur when they are attempting to sit or get up from the toilet. Grab bars or an elevated toilet seat can help.

6. Install motion-detecting lights. These lights turn on automatically upon detecting movement, making them beneficial for people who routinely visit the bathroom in the middle of the night. Adequate illumination also can help reduce fall risk.

Bathroom safety should be made a priority. Various modifications can make bathrooms safer for people of all ages.

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SPRING HOME & GARDEN

(Metro) Technology has changed the way people live in the 21st century. Once ubiquitous, land lines anchored to kitchen walls have now given way to smartphones that can be taken anywhere. Bulky television sets that required at least two people to move have been replaced with high-definition offerings so light and thin they can be mounted on living room walls.

It’s no great surprise that technology also is changing the physical places we call home.

Smart homes are a rapidly growing trend. In a typical smart home, devices such as the thermostat, television and even the refrigerator can be controlled remotely through the internet.

Converting an existing home into a smart home can seem intimidating, especially for people who don’t consider themselves tech savvy. But today’s user-friendly technology makes it relatively easy for anyone to turn

his or her home into a smarter one.

Before you get started, recognize that there are certain must-have items to turn a home into a smart home.

Hub

April 2019

providers, while others buy their own routers. Regardless of which category you fall into, you’re going to need a good WiFi router to get your smart home up and running. Determine which type of WiFi your home currently has and then find a router that’s compatible with that WiFi. Request a list of routers that are compatible with your WiFi from your service provider, as not all routers will necessarily work with your internet connection. If possible, upgrade to the fastest WiFi your internet provider offers, as that will make your smart home that much more enjoyable and frustration-free.

The hub refers to software or hardware that connects all of your devices and gets them to work together. Think of the various devices you have and then think of their manufacturers. Chances are strong you have devices manufactured by various companies, and enabling those to work together might seem impossible. A hub does that work for you. And because they can be connected to your smartphone, Devices You won’t necessarily need hubs also make it possible to control devices while you’re away to upgrade your devices to get a smart home. In fact, if you confrom home. trol or can control any device in your home with a smartphone, WiFi router Some people rent their you are already on your way to routers from their internet/cable having a smart home. Upgrad-

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ing to a programmable thermostat that’s compatible with your smartphone might be a great idea if your current thermostat is old and not internet-compatible.

With a programmable thermo-

stat, you can control the temperature in your home remotely.

That ensures the home is a comfortable temperature when you arrive home and allows you to turn off costly heating and cool-

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Smart homes may seem futuristic. But chances are strong your home only needs some simple, inexpensive upgrades to join the smart home revolution.

April 2019

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SPRING HOME & GARDEN

PAGE 11

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How builders can keep radon from entering a home (Metro) As the world has changed, so, too, have home buyers. The home buyers of today typically want homes that align with life in the 21st century. That means extra outlets for all of our devices and homes pre-wired for high speed internet access.

Housing starts, which refers to the number of new residential construction sites, reflect buyers’ demand for newly built homes. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there were slightly more than 1.2 million housing starts in September 2018, which marked a sizable increase from a year prior, when 1.158 million new residential constructions broke ground.

Though prospective buyers want a host of modern amenities, they also want something valued by homeowners since the dawn of time: safety. Security systems can safeguard homeowners and their families

from criminals, but homeowners also must ensure steps are taken to protect a home’s inhabitants from naturally occurring threats, including radon.

Radon is a radioactive gas that is produced from the natural breakdown of the uranium found in most rocks and soil. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to radon gas is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the United States.

Because it’s naturally occurring, radon can infiltrate any home. However, the EPA, working alongside state and federal geologists, has developed maps that predict the potential indoor radon levels for every county in the country. (Note: Radon can pose a health risk when breathed in through outdoor air, but such instances are unusual because radon is typically diluted in open air.) Each county has been assigned a zone depending on its potential radon threat, and

those that pose the biggest threat are designated as Zone 1, while those with the lowest threat are Zone 3. Homeowners building their homes can contact their state’s radon office via www.epa. gov to determine which zone their property is in.

In addition to learning which radon zone they’re in, homeowners building new homes can ask their builders to take the following measures so their homes’ interiors are as resistant to radon as possible.

• n ta a a er o c ean gravel or aggregate beneath the slab or flooring system.

• a o eth ene heeting on top of the gravel layer.

• nc u e a ga tight enting pipe from the gravel level through the building to the roof.

• ea an cau the oun ation thoroughly.

earn ore a out ra on including how to determine radon levels in your home, at www. epa.gov.

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SPRING HOME & GARDEN

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(Metro) Compacted soil can result from any number of activities, including walking on a lawn. When soil on a lawn is compacted, grass roots might not receive the water, oxygen and nutrients they need to grow in strong. The can lead to weak lawns that are vulnerable to various issues. However, homeowners need not avoid their lawns to prevent soil compaction. Rather, learning to recognize signs of soil compaction and paying special attention to heavily trafficked areas of the yard can help homeowners identify the problem early and address it before grass begins to suffer. Cooperative Extension, which is supported by the United States Department of Agriculture and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture, notes that the following are some

April 2019

sign potential indicators of compacted soil.

• ar oi oi that i i ficult, if not impossible, to penetrate with a shovel is likely compacted. Even healthy soil is sometimes resistant to penetration, but if homeowners put some muscle into their efforts to penetrate the soil and still can’t do so, then the soil is compacted.

• tan ing ater ater standing on top of soil for a long time is doing so because the soil is likely so compacted that the water, which roots need to thrive, cannot get through.

• ce i e ater runo Runoff occurs when watering lawns. But if nearly all of the water intended for the lawn and the soil beneath it is seemingly being diverted away from the grass, then that means the water cannot

get through to the soil or that so little is getting through that the lawn’s health is in jeopardy.

• o o egetation or oor ant gro th o acte oi prevents water, nutrients and oxygen from accessing the root zone. As a result, plants, including trees, are vulnerable to disease and even death.

• ur ace cru t ur ace crust, which blocks oxygen and water from penetrating the soil and tends to inflict areas like footpaths and playgrounds due to heavy foot traffic, contributes to runoff and soil erosion.

Compacted soil is relatively simple to fix. But when untreated, compacted soil can threaten lawns, plants and other vegetation.

April 2019

SPRING HOME & GARDEN

QUICK AND SIMPLE WAYS TO MAKE A FRONT DOOR POP

(Metro) Visitors’ impresion o a ho e are o en ictate the ho e entr a u t a one a u ge a oo it co er the a e can e ai a out the i re ion that a ront oor an entr a can create regar e o ho accurate that i re ion is.

a ing certain change to an entryway can go a long way to ar i ro ing cur a ea Entryways also can set the scene or a ho e interior hether one choo e to e c a ic or o o ern or tra itiona there are ariou a to uic tran or a ho e entr a

• o ront oor co or Color can dramatically enhance an entryway. Painting an existing door or replacing it with a more i i o tion can o the tric e et or a certain co or tan out a a orite e e inc u e tur uoi e e o re in igo orange an ac e door color should complement the other ha e o the ho e such as those on siding and trim.

• u to a a ui e gue t right to the ront oor ith an attracti e an a e a a ta e concrete or ecorati e a er oc a t the i i a a can e ten to the treet or to the ri e a

• ontain ant an -

scaping around the entryway hou e neat an e ten e ergro n ant or hru er a gi e o an air o neg ect ontainer ant an care u curate hru can create a neat an in iting aura

• igh ight the a re a e ure the ho e can e oun ea i ith o an ecorati e hou e nu er on i er two different address signs: one i u inate an ea i ie e ro the cur an another c o er to the ront oor

• ti ize high en ateria e re ati e a area o rea e tate the ront oor ena e ho eo ner to urge on more opulent materials that can rea a a ee ing o u ur e e can inc u e co or u ti e ornate anter ecorati e oo en oor or e a orate no an ighting ture

• architectura etai Find out which architectural eleent i e ith the t e o the home and then incorporate the o ing co u n hutter an tri are area to consider.

e entr a to a ho e garner a ot o attention o eowners can enhance their spaces ith entr a that rea a e a statement.

(Metro) Decorating a home in neutra tone ha ong een recommended as a way to sell a ho e uic ut the co or gra a o ro i e a an can a or ho eo ner ho ha e no intention o utting their ho e on the ar et an ti e oon

eige an hite ha e ong een go to co or or neutra i ing ace ut an interior ecorator no oo to gra a the neutra co or o choice

e ign e ert a i e that gra ha a roa range ra can inc u e e er thing ro i er to charcoal to a dusty cloud.

According to the trendsetters at i en aint gra coor inate e ith other co or u the neutra a ea o gra oa t a ti e e ua it

ra i not a c ear cut co or that i a en o hite an ac ra ha u t e nuances that can lean toward ue green tau e an ore depending on the lighting and

PAGE 13

urroun ing urni hing at means that homeowners who are rea to re ace their urniture or accessories need not nece ari re aint i the e re iou ecorate in ha e o gra

n i i ua nee on replace small items to produce a ig e ect in roo here gra is dominant. Because gray is so neutra it or ith o ca ing co or in ariou a te ut e ua a e ith right re e o an orange accor ing to cott o enner a roo n a e te ti e e igner

ra a o i a re o inant color in natural stones used throughout homes in entrya athroo an itchen t can a e e ign en e to maintain continuity throughout a ing in gra e e here

e igner ha e ho n ho roo o the hou e ore e- a tau e an en u e gra oe not ha e to e co signers are now leaning toward greige that are eauti u ut not in u tria or g oo t can e ar er ariation o gra uch a tar a ure gra o hi ticate in u t a out an

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April 2019

(Metro) Raising backyard chickens has been a growing phenomenon for several years.

Many cities have passed laws legalizing backyard chickens, encouraging many to raise chickens as a rewarding hobby.

One of the biggest benefits to raising backyard chickens is that their eggs are fresher and often tastier than store-bought varieties. Hens can lay one egg per day. Multiply that egg per hen, and breakfast is always available.

Another benefit to chickens is they produce a natural fertilizer that can be used in gardens.

‘The Old Farmer’s Almanac’ says chicken manure can be composted, aged and eventually added to the garden. In about six months, a person will accumulate about one cubic foot of manure per chicken. Egg shells and other compostable material can be added to create an even richer formula.

Chickens also can help con-

trol bugs around the yard, offers the experts at Tractor Supply Company.

Before investing in backyard chickens, people should determine if chickens will fit with their lifestyle. Costs and care are a big consideration.

Each chick will cost anywhere between $3 to $5 a bird.

Then there’s feed to consider. The most expensive item will likely be the coop. The experts at The Happy Chicken Coop, a resource for raising chickens and starting coops, says handy men and women can build homemade coops, but ready-made ones will cost a few hundred dollars. The coop will need to offer around four square feet of space per chicken (or what’s recommended for the breed).

Despite being seemingly independent birds, chickens need people to be active caregivers.

They require feed and water daily. The chickens will need a care-

giver while you vacation. People who are frequently away from home should reconsider chickens.

Chickens also are prone to worms, parasites and lice.

They need to have rear feathers trimmed to stay clean and sanitary, and they will require an area where they can ‘dust’ and selfgroom. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises not to cuddle and kiss chickens like pets because they can carry salmonella. Not every coop is completely varmint-proof, and some chickens may succumb to predators. Squeamish or sentimental folks may find chickens aren’t the right fit.

Chickens require commitment and care that many people can provide. It is essential to do one’s homework to ensure that backyard chickens are a sound investment.

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April 2019

(Metro) Getting organized is a popular Spring tradition.

Clutter can be a major source of stress that affects how individuals feel about their spaces. Psychology Today indicates messy homes and work spaces can contribute to feelings of helplessness, anxiety and overwhelming stress. Clutter bombards the mind with excessive stimuli, makes it more difficult to relax and can constantly signal to the brain that work is never done.

Tackling messes no matter where they are lurking is not a one-time project. Much like losing weight and getting healthy, clearing a home of clutter requires dedication and lifestyle changes. With these organizational tips and tricks, anyone can work through their home roomby-room and conquer clutter.

SPRING HOME & GARDEN

accumulate possessions over the years. Over time, failure to regularly go through belongings and thin the herd can lead to the accumulation of clutter. But clutter also can accumulate if people fail to find a place to put items.

Racks for garages, organizational systems for closets and furniture with storage capacity, such as storage ottomans, are some storage solutions that can help people find a place for their possessions.

PAGE 15

razors or toothbrushes on medicine cabinet walls and curling irons and other hair tools on the interior of cabinet doors in bathrooms.

Create a coding system Home offices can be some of the more disorganized rooms in a house simply due to the volume of electronics and paperwork within them. HGTV suggests using a color-coded system for important files to keep them organized. Label important items, Utilize vertical space when pos- whether they’re paper or digital files, in accordance with your sible Getting items up and off system. the floor can maximize square footage in a home. Bookshelves, Put it away When you finish using an hanging wall shelves, hooks, cabinetry, built-ins, and other item, return it to its storage lostorage solutions that rely on cation. This eliminates piles of walls and ceilings are simple belongings strewn around the and effective storage solutions. house - and hunting and pecking Unused space behind cabinet or for missing things. If you can’t closet doors are some additional put it away immediately, have a Find a place for everything Clutter creeps up as people places to store belongings. Hang few baskets on hand labeled for

the different rooms in the house.

Pop the items in the requisite baskets and then routinely take each basket around the house to return the items.

Investing in custom cabine- bedroom closets, and pantries, try and organizational systems or those areas that tend to accualso can help people organize mulate clutter the fastest. their belongings. Tackle rooms such as the garage, basements,

Prevent mosquitoes from spoiling your summer fun (Metro) Summer is a beloved time of year that’s often dominated by time spent outdoors soaking up summer sun.

But all that extra time outdoors can make people vulnerable to mosquitoes. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, mosquitoes are more than just hungry, unwanted backyard guests.

In fact, mosquito-borne diseases, including the Zika virus, the West Nile virus and dengue, pose significant threats.

While not all mosquitoes carry disease, even those that don’t can still bite humans, leaving them to deal with discomfort and itchiness. Taking measures to control mosquitoes outside your home can reduce your risk of being bitten by mosquitoes.

• Re o e ace here mosquitoes like to lay their eggs. Mosquitoes like to lay

their eggs in standing water.

Once a week during summer and other times of the year when mosquitoes might be buzzing around, walk around your property to remove standing water.

Bird baths, flower pots, kids’ toys, pools, old tires, and trash containers are some of the more common places where water can collect and present perfect places for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Turn these over to empty any standing water you find. Remove empty flower pots and old tires from the property, and make sure water storage containers are tightly covered at all times.

• re area here o quitoes like to rest. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that mosquitoes like to rest in dark, humid areas. This includes car ports, garages and beneath patio furniture. Outdoor insecticides can prevent mosquitoes from resting in such areas.

When inside a home, mosquitoes may be resting under a sink, in closets, beneath the furniture or in a laundry room. Indoor insect sprays and indoor insect foggers work quickly and can be highly effective, but reapplication might be necessary, as they won’t prevent more mosquitoes from entering the home at a later time.

• hec our in o screens. Mosquitoes might prefer the outside, but that doesn’t mean they won’t enter a home looking for meals if given the opportunity. Inspect window screens to look for holes that may provide mosquitoes with access to your home’s interior, replacing any damaged screens immediately. When leaving or entering a home, make a concerted effort to close doors as quickly as possible.

Bring your old paint and household chemicals to the

Blue Earth County HHW facility, located at 651 Summit Ave. in Mankato.

This facility is open to residents of Le Sueur, Nicollet & Sibley Counties.

Tuesdays 12 noon - 6 p.m. · 2nd Saturdays 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

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We absolutely CANNOT accept: Business or agricultural chemicals or waste, motor oils or oil filters, explosives, or ammunition.

For more information, contact the Tri-County Solid Waste Office at 507-381-9196 www.tricountyrecycling.org al.christensen@co.nicollet.mn.us

PAGE 16

SPRING HOME & GARDEN

April 2019

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