Home & Garden Spring 2021

Home & Garden Spring 2021

A special publication of The Brazil Times and Banner Graphic

Courtesy photo/ CONNIE WAGNER

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Story Index 8 tips for a successful home renovation................................ 4 Birds attacking your windows?.............................................. 5 Brighten and boost your outdoor space................................ 6 Build a raised garden bed this season................................... 8 Bagged? Or Bagless?................................................................. 9 How to ‘fight dirty’ with a pressure washer...................... 10 3 fresh trends to inspire your garden.................................. 11 5 expert tips to renew your lawn......................................... 12 3 homeowners insurance tips before planting................... 13 Spring maintenance checklist for homeowners................. 14

The future of gardening......................................................... 15 5 tips to get your garage organized..................................... 16 4 easy ideas to enhance your garden................................... 18

On the Cover

This lovely photo submitted by Connie Wagner displays the luscious yellow blooms on an asiatic lily. These are easy-to-care for perennials that explode with color in the summer. Wagner, a Greencastle-based artist, is also a gardener who favors florals and landscapes in her art. To learn more, visit www.conniewagnerstudio.com.

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8 tips for a successful home renovation Thinking of remodeling your home? From safety and security to product and contractor selection, there are many factors to consider.

Follow these eight remodeling tips to help minimize hassles during a renovation: 1. Create a budget. Create a project budget and set a spending limit. Whether you plan to utilize savings, home equity loan, line of credit or free up funds through refinancing, now is the time to identify how you will finance the project, and how much you want to spend.

2. Prepare the house. Before work starts, clear all spaces where professionals will be working, as well as walkways they will use to access these areas. Remove valuables and breakables to avoid damage and cover furniture in areas where paint or dust could harm upholstery. Keep other considerations in mind. For example, if you’re renovating the kitchen, you may need to create a temporary food prep area.

3. Work with reputable professionals. When selecting a contractor, be sure they have references, certification and an understanding of the project. For example, when tackling window and door projects, Andersen Windows, Inc. recommends hiring an Andersen Certified Contractor to do the job. These contractors receive product training, installation resources, offer an exclusive 2-year limited installation warranty, and their expertise and experience in an extensive range of residential projects means they’re able to capture your vision for your home and work with you to provide the right products.

Bottom line: working with reputable professionals makes all the difference in the quality of the work and the materials used to complete the project.

4. Schedule wisely. Choose a timeframe for your home Courtesy StatePoint renovation that best fits your busy schedule. Keep in mind that unforeseen circumstances can sometimes cause delays.

7. Communicate openly and effectively. If a renovation Build this into the timeline so you’re not taken by surprise.

5. Address safety. Talk to your contractor about what is done correctly, you may never need to repeat the proCOVID-19 measures they practice to help keep customers cess. This makes open and honest communication with and employees safe. Find out whether they’re following your home renovation team essential. Be sure to share your CDC guidelines for businesses, including always wearing vision and to ask questions as they arise. At the same time, a mask, social distancing whenever possible and frequent expect the professionals working with you to communicate hand washing. Also, ask if they offer virtual consultations regularly and address all your concerns.

8. Get a return on your investment. Prioritize projects that allow you to start the process contact-free.

6. Add or update your security system. With profession- that will potentially raise the resale value of your home. als frequently coming in and out of your home, a home ren- According to FortuneBuilders, the top 10 greatest returns ovation may be a good time to add or update your security on investment for home renovations include bathroom and system with reprogrammable smart locks. Offering more kitchen remodels, landscaping, replacing entry doors and convenience and greater control, the Yale Assure Lock for replacing windows. It also helps to select products that Andersen patio and entry doors for example, is a sleek, key- come with transferrable warranties. This will give your free entry lock that makes it easy to grant access to contrac- property a tangible leg-up on the market when it’s time to tors for limited periods of time, lock and unlock doors from sell.

Article courtesy StatePoint Media anywhere and monitor from afar.

2021 Home & Garden • Page 4

Birds attacking your windows?

Here’s yow to stop it If you’ve ever noticed a bird attack your windows, you may wonder why this strange behavior is occurring.

Beyond the potential disruption it might cause your family, repeated attacks can be harmful to birds. Understanding the problem however, can help you put a stop to it, and better protect the birds nesting on your property.

The Problem

Many birds will stake out a territory, perhaps by your home, and vigorously defend it. If a territorial bird discovers its reflection in your window, it may perceive this reflection to be another bird competing for its territory and mate, compelling the bird to attack. This attack of its own reflection can take the form of pecking or scratching at your window, as well as flying up and banging into your window. When repeated, these actions deplete a bird’s energy and put its health and the health of its nesting young at risk.

Though this can occur at any time of year, it happens most often in spring, with males.

A Solution

You can help stop this problem from occurring. One good solution designed to do so is Stop Bird Attack, a removable, white coating that may be sprayed on any window. It eliminates the bird’s window reflection, calms the bird and stops the attack. Effective for Northern Cardinals, American Robins, California Towhees and other territorial birds, Stop Bird Attack is made by WindowAlert, a brand that also makes bird window decals and UV Liquid products that help prevent bird strikes (another common hazard to birds). More information can be found by visiting windowalert.com.

Take it a Step Further

While you are at it, consider other dangers to birds that you can eliminate on your property. For example, by swap-

For a job Done Right

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ping out conventional pesticides with essential oils, you can ward off pests in your garden without putting birds at risk.

You might also try keeping pet cats indoors or in an enclosure to prevent them from attacking birds.

“While your home’s windows can be an unexpected hazard to birds, it’s important to be aware of the easy solutions that can help keep them safe this spring nesting season and beyond,” says Spencer Schock, founder of WindowAlert.

Article courtesy StatePoint Media

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Brighten and boost your outdoor space with ease by planting petunias and pansies Gardening is the perfect way to revitalize your home, enhance your mood and safely spend time outdoors with your family. Sun-loving Wave Petunias and Cool Wave Pansies are two great choices for adding high-impact, low maintenance flowers throughout your favorite outdoor spaces, from large yards to balcony gardens. With a few creative ideas and easy suggestions, you’ll help your plants thrive so you can enjoy stunning color month after month.

Whether you’re a new or advanced gardener, use these tips for planting long-lasting petuniasand pansies in both traditional and unique ways: Enjoy flowers up, down and all around Pansies and petunias are two timeless plants that are available in an array of fun colors so you can add visual interest throughout your sunny outdoor spaces. Get creative by making your own flower-filled hanging baskets or create interesting designs and patterns in flower beds. You can even add vertical appeal to spaces by up-cycling a hanging shoe organizer, filling each pouch halfway with soil and adding petunias. With their dramatic spread, exceptionally long bloom time and weather resistance, petunias brighten up gardens, patios and balconies with bold color - and they’re virtually care-free.

Use heartier plants for early spring gardening As days grow longer and the weather becomes milder, you’re ready to dig into the dirt. However, since spring can be unpredictable, you want to make sure your flowers can handle the cooler temperatures. Not only do pansies withstand the cooler temperatures, but they’re also easy to grow and maintain, making them a great choice for beginner and seasoned gardeners alike. Available in many colors including raspberry, white and bicolor options, you can get creative with

Courtesy Brandpoint

flowers as soon as the seasons change.

Plant these in early spring and enjoy the cheery feel they add to any garden for months to come.

Colorful fun beyond the garden In addition to beautifying your outdoor spaces, pansies are a simple way to enhance any DIY project. These elegant flowers make a stunning edible garnish for charcuterie boards, fruit platters, salads or cocktails. Want to elevate ice cubes? Add colorful pansies to the tray before freezing. You can also press pansies to dry for use in arts and crafts, such as creating beautiful bookmarks, colorful cardstock or a one-of-a-kind phone case.

Brighten baskets with on-trend yellow blooms A warm yellow color called “Illuminating” is a 2021 Pantone Color of the Year, a tone that conveys joy and hopefulness. Taking inspiration from this on-trend shade, you can add a dash of inspiration to your garden with yellow petunias to add sunny bursts of color to flower baskets or window boxes. Additionally, these fast-growing plants bloom freely all season without much maintenance.

2021 Home & Garden • Page 6

You can enjoy these happy yellow flowers as seasons turn because they tolerate both heat and cooler conditions well.

Be bold in flower beds with mixed colors When summer hits, you’ll want to enjoy bursts of rich color when you entertain outdoors. That’s why there’s no better option than the vivid hues in the Easy Wave Beachcomber Mixture.

Inspired by the colors of the coast, this petunia mix features pinks, purples and blues that dazzle in any outdoor space, but are particularly pleasing in flower beds. To enjoy the blooms as long as possible, occasionally cut back the spent petals to rejuvenate the plants for fresh, new growth.

Gardening is a low-stress healthy hobby for people of all ages. It’s a wonderful escape when done solo or makes for great quality time spent together as a family. Use these ideas to guide you in your gardening activities and reap the benefits of long-lasting petunia and pansy blooms. For additional inspiration and friendly advice, visit www.wavegardening.com.

Article courtesy Brandpoint Content

Courtesy photo/CONNIE WAGNER A honey bee sips nectar from the summer blooms of a Lamb’s Ear.

2021 Home & Garden • Page 7

How and why to build a raised garden bed this season Fairly easy to construct and even easier to maintain, raised garden beds are a great way to raise plants and vegetables in the comfort and convenience of your backyard.

In a recent episode of the Exmark Original Series, “Done-in-A-Weekend-Extreme,” landscape designer and show host, Doug Scott, spoke to organic gardener Joe Lamp’l of “Growing a Greener World” about the ins and outs of raised garden beds.

Here are some of the top insights and tips Lamp’l shared.

• Why use raised garden beds? A raised garden bed can help facilitate the ideal growing environment, as most people don’t have that perfect soil naturally in their yard. Their accessibility makes them easier to work in and maintain. Plus, they’re a nice architectural design element in any landscape.

• What’s the ideal size?

The main rule of the thumb applies to width. The bed should be no wider than 4 feet, as you never want to compact the soil when working. Length however, is based on personal preference and needs. As far as height is concerned, you want the roots to be able to grow out and down as much as possible -- 6-inches at minimum. While 12-inches is common, anything higher is a bonus.

• What materials work best? Treated lumber is the most readily available and economical material and will likely last the longest, however, being an organic gardener Lamp’l prefers

StatePoint Raised garden beds create visual interest and an ideal growing environment.

untreated hardwood, as it lasts almost as long and doesn’t contain chemicals.

Other materials you have around the home and yard, such as rocks, old tubs, etc., can work too.

• Where’s the best location? Build your raised garden bed on level ground, in full sun exposure near a water supply.

DIY Instructions: To build a 10-foot x 4-foot x 18-inch raised bed, you’ll need: • Nine 6-inch x 6-inch x 12-foot cedar timbers • Tape measure, t-square and marking pencil • A saw and extension cord • One box of 10-inch heavy-duty exterior wood screws • Ten 24-inch x 1/2-inch rebar stakes • Twenty 10-inch galvanized timber spikes • Sledgehammer • Impact drill and long

drill bit • Level • Hammer • Shovels • Hardware cloth, wire cutters and fence staples • Work gloves, safety glasses and ear plugs • Wheelbarrow (to transport soil) 1. Begin by cutting six, 6 x 6 timbers, each measuring 10-feet 6-inches in length.

And six, 6 x 6 timbers, each measuring 4-feet 6-inches in length. Drill rebar holes in each timber.

2. Once the first layer of bed has been placed, leveled and squared in your desired location, fasten the corners using 10-inch wood screws.

Secure the entire layer to the ground with 10 pieces of rebar.

3. Place the second layer of timbers, staggering the corners and fastening them with wood screws. Secure this layer to the first with ten 10-inch galvanized spikes.

2021 Home & Garden • Page 8

4. Install galvanized cloth to prevent burrowing pests from eating earthworms and destroying plants.

5. Place the third layer of timbers (following above directions.)

6. Fill with soil and plants.

For more tips and complete build instructions, check out “How to Build Raised Garden Beds” by visiting Exmark. com/backyard. Exmark’s Backyard Life is part of a unique multimedia destination with a focus on helping homeowners make the most of their backyard.

There you can also access other series, including “Prime Cuts” and “Dream Yards.”

For an amazing crop this season, take a cue from the professionals and build a raised garden bed for best results.

Article courtesy StatePoint Media

Bagged? Or bagless?

Submitted by Sweeper World

If you shop at “Big Box” retailers, you might think that bagged vacuums are obsolete and bagless vacuums are the new standard.

That’s why people are often surprised that most of the machines on the market that last the longest use disposable bags. The best brands all use bags because “Bags are Better” for many reasons.

1.) Bags are more sanitary. Emptying dust cups and washing filters is a messy job! Bagged? Or bagless? A survey taken in Nov. 2020 of vacuum store owners and employees reveals that an overwhelming majority choose bagged vacuums to clean their own homes. The experts agree...

2.) Bagged vacuums clean better. I would encourage you to seek out premium brands that filter the air while you vacuum. Well-designed vacuums clean deeper and makes carpets last longer.

3.) Bagged machines cost less to own. When you compare the lifetime cost of ownership, supplies, maintenance, and replacement, bagged vacuums offer better value.

The experts agree...

A survey taken in Nov. 2020 of vacuum store owners and employees reveals that an overwhelming majority choose bagged vacuums to clean their own homes.

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2021 Home & Garden • Page 9

How to ‘fight dirty’ with a pressure washer As you’ve been spending more time at home lately, you’ve probably found things around your house and yard that aren’t as clean as they used to be. Depending on where you live, you may be eyeing many of these cleaning projects and putting them on your to-do list as spring approaches, or you may be itching to get at them right away.

Unfortunately, some of these areas are really difficult to clean, and some of the problem spots are very tough to reach, too - which may explain why they’ve gotten in such rough shape.

Solutions for outdoor tough spots While you survey your property to look for ways to improve its appearance, take note of the hardest-to-reach and toughest-to-clean spots, such as: * Exterior siding and brick * Fences * Windows * Decks, patios and porches * Sidewalks and driveways * Cars and trucks * Lawn equipment and grills If any of these items look like they could use a good scrub, don’t get out the soap, sponge and brushes just yet - a pressure washer may be just what you need.

“For tackling big or small jobs, the Powerhorse 3200 PSI Pressure Washer can make your outdoor cleaning easier, faster and a much more effective to blast away the dirt,” said Jonathan Green, senior regional parts and service manager at Northern Tool +

Equipment. “Most importantly, it’s easy to use and will save you a great deal of time so you can take care of any job without the elbow grease.”

The Powerhorse 3200 PSI Pressure Washer is an effective tool, with all the power and accessories you need to tackle countless projects around your home or your business. It features a maintenance-free direct drive axial pump, along with adjustable pressure - making it versatile enough to handle delicate jobs or blast away years’ worth of grime. The pushdown style cart features a sturdy steel tube frame, and its ten-inch flatfree tires make it easy to move from job to job while you’re improving your home, yard or business.

Maintaining your pressure washer Once you’ve got your pressure washer, Green recommends the following tips for keeping it in top shape:

* Always remove your tips and clean them out after every use on your pressure washer gun as well as your surface cleaner. This keeps the tips from calcifying. * Whenever you change the engine oil in your pressure washer, change the pump oil as well. This way they stay in the same cycle. * Always use a fuel treatment and stabilizer in your fuel, unless using premium ethanol-free fuel. The stabilizer assists in keeping the unit running smoothly and limits carburetor cleaning and repairs. * Flush the pump before extended storage, especially if stored in a freezing climate.

If you’ve put off investing in a pressure washer before, this could be the best year for getting those toughto-tackle jobs done. This pressure washer has a built-in nozzle holder, so the right nozzle is within reach at all times. In addition, the onboard soap tank adds efficiency, eliminating the mess and hassle of using a siphon tube and separate container.

You simply add detergent to the onboard tank and you’re ready to clean.

You can look forward to enjoying a brighter, cleaner spring and summer at home when you’ve got your house and yard looking fresh and clean.

To learn more about what a pressure washer can do for you, visit Northerntool.com.

Article courtesy Brandpoint Content

Outdoor Living Products Lori Dalton-Niewald Broker-Owner 1541 CR 450 E. Greencastle, IN 46135 (765) 653-6533

Office: 812-448-1890 www.cashconcrete.com Belgard Dealer 2021 Home & Garden • Page 10

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3 fresh trends to inspire your 2021 garden Home gardening offers plentiful benefits that support mental and physical health, and many people have decided to begin or expand their gardens during the pandemic.

Whether you’re a new gardener looking to learn or a seasoned green thumb who has been growing plants for years, you want inspiration for the upcoming growing season.

Following expert-recommended top trends can help set you up for success and make your garden the envy of the neighborhood.

The 2021 Burpee GardenCast forecast, found at www.burpee.com/GardenCast, is an inspirational resource based on industry trends and cultural insights,

combining expertise from Burpee horticulturalists, registered dietitian Marisa Moore and HGTV star and lifestyle expert Kelly Edwards.

The GardenCast trends for 2021 include:

Immunity Garden

Health is top of mind for people across the country. An abundant garden full of vibrant vegetables like winter squash, radishes and tomatoes can help you commit to a nutrient-rich diet that strengthens your immune system.

A vegetable’s color reflects the different phytonutrients and antioxidants inside, according to the Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism. Growing a rainbow of vegetables allows you to cre-

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ate multi-hued meals with health and disease-fighting benefits.

“Planting an Immunity Garden right in your own backyard will do a world of good,” says Moore. “It offers

unlimited access to nutrient-dense vegetables that help support your overall health and well-being. Tomatoes are a great example: they are rich in vitamin C, which See TRENDS, Page 19

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Spring awakening: 5 expert tips to renew your lawn 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.

1) 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.

2) 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.

3) Get a step ahead of weed growth: The return of crabgrass is not some-

thing 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.

“Timing is critical when it comes to applying preventative weed treatments,” says Brian Feldman, TruGreen’s Director of Technical Operations - North. “Treatment should be applied under very specific soil and temperature conditions. Otherwise, it won’t work and you’ll end up wasting both product and effort.”

To take the guesswork out of weed control, consulting with a lawn care professional can bring you peace of See LAWN, Page 17

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3 homeowners insurance tips to know before planting flowers or vegetables Days are getting longer and warmer, inspiring many to want to spend more time outside. Lots of people enjoy gardening this time of year - it’s an outdoor activity families can do together, especially if parents are looking for ways to keep their children occupied. It’s also a great way to get some fresh air, light exercise, relieve stress and add to your home’s curb appeal.

“Sprucing up your landscaping with some new flower beds and shrubs can give your home a refreshed look,” said Christopher O’Rourke, vice president of property claims at Mercury Insurance. “A well-maintained yard can also help protect against common homeowners insurance claims like water and fire damage. For example, keeping gutters cleared of leaves and debris can help prevent blockages that might direct water into the home. Regularly mowing the lawn, pruning bushes and keeping the yard free of grass clippings and twigs is aesthetically pleasing and can help mitigate against wildfire risk if homeowners live in an area where these are common.”

Here are three additional tips O’Rourke recommends.

1. Well-planned landscaping can help mitigate wildfire risk.

Homeowners who live in areas with dry climates that are susceptible to wildfires should evaluate their landscaping - if laid out in a certain way, it might increase your home’s insurability.

“The plants surrounding a house have one of the greatest influences on its chances of survival,” said Douglas Kent, wildfire expert, author and professor of land management at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona.

Plants within the five feet closest to your home should be fleshy and moist, as they are reluctant to produce a flame.

Instead, they’ll sizzle and wilt when exposed to flames and heat. If properly maintained, these plants can catch and extinguish a firebrand.

O’Rourke notes that homeowners who don’t live in fire country can also take precautions to protect against fires.

“Trimming tree limbs so they’re at least 10 feet away from your home and pruning unruly bushes can help prevent fires caused by lightning strikes, for example, from jumping onto your roof or exterior walls,” he said.

2. Before hiring expert help, inquire about coverage.

Some gardening jobs may take an expert to complete.

However, this brings added exposure to a homeowner if they don’t check on coverage from the contractor. With shovels, rakes and power tools being used, an accident could happen at any moment.

“Before signing a contract with a landscaper or gardener, ask them for their proof of insurance,” said O’Rourke. “If they don’t have coverage, you probably want to find one who does. In most cases, the contractor’s coverage will act as the primary insurance should one of their employees get injured while on the job.”

O’Rourke also recommends homeowners read their insurance policies in full, so they know what is and what isn’t covered in the event of a loss. “Knowledge is power, so understanding your policy is of utmost importance,” See INSURANCE, Page 17

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Spring maintenance checklist for homeowners As the weather warms, there are a few maintenance tasks every homeowner should consider completing.

Use this checklist as your guide: Outdoor Upkeep • Wash window exteriors for a better view.

• Clean gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow. Neglecting this task for too long can cause rot, mold and damage to your foundation.

• Get your patio or deck in tip-top shape for outdoor living. Sweep and hose it down. Remove patio furnishings from storage. Wipe down surfaces and vacuum cushions (or launder them if they’re machine washable).

• Inspect lawn equipment and tools for needed maintenance, repair and fuel refills.

• Mow the lawn. Trim the edges.

• After the next rainfall, inspect your yard for standing water, which can damage your home and invite mosquitoes. Consider hiring a landscaper to level out an uneven lawn.

HVAC Maintenance • Change HVAC filters at least once each season (ideally monthly). Dirty filters make equipment work hard-

iStock via Getty Images Plus /ORANAT TAESUWAN

er and cause more wear and tear on equipment. They also increase your energy bill and lessen indoor air quality.

• According to Energy Star, 20-30 percent of the air that moves through the duct system of a typical home is lost due to leaks, holes and poorly connected ducts.

Consider professional duct sealing for improved energy efficiency and lower bills.

• Check to see whether your furnaces and air conditioners bear the ENERGY STAR logo. If not, consider a new unit. A properly-sized and installed ENERGY STAR air conditioner uses up to 20 percent less electricity than older models, and doing so may make you eligible for a

Federal Tax Credit.

• Have a technician give your home’s cooling system a pre-season tune-up so that everything is running efficiently by the time warmer weather arrives. You know the “personality” of your heating or cooling unit best, so be prepared to provide the technician with important information. No fact is insignificant, as it may help them diagnose and fix a problem.

• Be sure that all HVACR installation and maintenance is performed only by a qualified professional. Read company reviews and ask the contractor if they have technicians certified by North American Technician Excellence (NATE). NATE-certi-

fied technicians have demonstrated knowledge of today’s increasingly sophisticated heating and cooling systems.

To find a NATE-certified technician in your area, visit Natex.org.

Safety • Carbon monoxide, often referred to as the “silent killer,” is odorless, colorless and tasteless. Protect your family by changing the batteries on your carbon monoxide detectors and ensuring you have a detector on each level of your home. When changing a furnace filter, make sure the new filter is correctly positioned and the access panel is securely fastened. Have your home’s furnace inspected and serviced annually by a NATE-certified technician.

• Likewise, test all the smoke alarms in your home and replace batteries as needed. The National Fire Protection Association recommends smoke alarms on every level of the home, including every sleeping room and outside each separate sleeping area.

A little seasonal maintenance can go a long way to a safer, more beautiful and more eco-friendly home.

Article courtesy StatePoint Media

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812-448-2877

37 W Kruzan, Brazil, IN. | 812-605-8632 Friday & Saturday 10am-6pm | Sunday Noon-4pm

2021 Home & Garden • Page 14

The future of gardening: Information and inspiration Gardening saw record growth in 2020 and experts expect many more people will be digging in the dirt again this spring. From “Victory” vegetable gardens to balcony containers, outdoor gathering spaces and mood-lifting landscapes, gardening is providing an outlet during the pandemic. Research conducted late last year found that 86% of homeowners plan to continue gardening in 2021. Nearly half of respondents say they’ll be planting more and expanding their garden spaces this spring. With all that expansion and enthusiasm comes the need for inspiration and advice.

Help for beginners

One source provides both inspiration and advice, with a goal of helping people feel more successful in their gardening endeavors. The National Garden Bureau was founded in 1920 in the wake of World War I, when an increasing number of suburbanites needed basic backyard gardening instruction. The nonprofit organization’s mission is to provide education to motivate people to enjoy plants, from indoor houseplants to outdoor gardens.

Try something new

How do they do it? One way is with their ‘Year of’ program. Each year the National Garden Bureau selects one annual, one perennial, one bulb crop, one edible and one shrub as their ‘Year of the’ crops. “Our ‘Year of’ program puts a spotlight on timely, interesting varieties,” says Diane Blazek, executive director of NGB. “Plants are chosen because they are popular, easy to grow, widely adaptable and versatile.”

One of the more popular picks for 2021 is The Year of the Sunflower. “If there was ever a time where we needed to add some sunshine to the world, it’s now,” adds Blazek. “Sunflowers add bright, cheery color to the garden, and they’re extremely easy to grow. They’re simple to start from seed, or you can purchase new potted varieties that promise multiple blooms throughout the season.”

2021 is also the Year of the Green Bean, Hardy Hibiscus, Hyacinth and Monarda.

A look into the future

“A big trend we’ve seen in our Future of Gardening survey is all about creating beautiful spaces,” says Blazek. “Planting sunflowers, hibiscus, hyacinth, monarda and other easy-to-grow flowers can help add color and curb appeal, but they also add natural beauty to outdoor gathering spaces, another COVID-19 world trend.”

Food gardens are also hot, especially with newer gardeners. “History shows that when there’s a national crisis, there is an increased interest in edible gardening,” she says. “That’s why we’re including See FUTURE, Page 17

Sheriff Paul Harden and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office Dale Cox - Owner

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2021 Home & Garden • Page 15

5 tips to get your garage organized ...and keep it that way Is your garage in disarray? While you dream of a perfectly organized workbench or garage, your reality probably looks more like a sea of random toys, boxes and exercise equipment.

Every do-it-yourselfer knows a clean, organized garage is the key to efficient project planning and repairs around the home. As we head into warmer months, set aside the time to take charge of the space and finally create a sense of tidiness that will last year-round.

Follow these five tips to tame the mess and get your garage back in shape: 1. Invest in shelving that accommodates clear storage bins. When it comes to organizing and storing the assortment of cords, car care items, paint supplies and kid’s toys littering your garage, nothing does the job better than clear storage bins. Not only can you categorize items by project or activity type, you can also easily stack them to save space without sacrificing the ability to easily find what you need, when you need it. Invest in taller, wider shelving for the perimeter of the garage to accommodate your chosen bins.

2. Fix or dispose of anything broken or past its prime.

There’s nothing worse than scrambling to find a specific tool or product in an urgent situation, only to realize it’s broken, damaged or dried out. As you organize, pay attention to textures, consistencies and expiration dates. Toss and replace any items that have seen better days. For broken tools that seem salvageable, like cracked hoses or broken handles, reach for a professional grade, heavy-duty duct tape like T-Rex Tape to tackle the repair.

3. Utilize ceiling and wall space with hanging storage.

From bicycles and skis to rakes and shovels, some equipment is better off stored up and out of your way. Install hanging racks or shelving above the area where you park your vehicles to store larger, heavier equipment, and use a double-sided mounting tape to attach hooks along the sides of your garage for lighter-weight items.

4. Stock up on the essentials so you can make repairs on the fly. While it’s great to have a wide assortment of tools and supplies, for many projects and repairs you really just need the basics – think max-strength waterproof tape, bungee cords, a hammer, nails and similar essentials. Use these items as the foundation of your garage workstation and stock up on extras to keep on-hand for emergencies, camping and other on-the-go uses.

5. Give everything a home. Aim to group supplies for similar activities, tasks and repairs together, giving each category a “home.” In addition to helping keep things organized in dedicated spaces, hanging frequently used tools and supplies on hooks or pegboard can make it easier to quickly scan the garage and find exactly what you need. Use your mounting tape to safely and securely create a space to store and display all your go-to items.

Interested in more solutions for all your home and DIY needs? Visit www.trextape.com for a wide variety project and repair ideas.

Whether you’re working on your car or tackling a weekend DIY project, having all your tools and supplies in order will make all the difference.

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2021 Home & Garden • Page 16

Lawn mind and deliver desired results.

4) 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.

5) 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,

Insurance

Continued from Page 12 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 tailor-made for your outdoor living space to get it into great shape this spring.

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he adds. “Talk to your agent if you have questions. They’re also the best resource to help you determine if you have the right amount of coverage.”

3. Consult with your insurance agent after hardscaping.

Most gardens feature a combination of plants and decorative, non-living features or structures, like pathways, fencing or even fountains to help better define and add character to the space.

Many homeowners also like to indulge

Future

Continued from Page 15

more info on growing vegetables.”

Learn from the experts

NGB’s members are horticulture experts who know gardening. The curated information the organization provides comes directly from those sources, offering new and experienced home gardeners advice they can count on to create great garden spaces. “The increased interest in gardening is great news,” adds Blazek. “Our goal as an industry is to keep people engaged in gardening even beyond this season. We feel an even greater need to provide quality information for new gardeners and exciting ideas for gardeners who want to take their experience to the next level. NGB is a great resource for everyone.”

New plants for 2021

A popular area of NGB’s website is the New Plants section. In addition to searching by name, visitors to NGB.com can search by plant category, type and height to find the perfect variety for their garden.

NGB.com also provides inspiration for plant combinations, delicious new vegetable varieties and tips to keep plants thriving throughout the season.

Need more information or inspiration for your garden this year? Visit NGB.org.

Article courtesy Brandpoint Content Continued from Page 13

in the warm weather by expanding their outside living space, which can include anything from remodeling a patio to building a garden oasis for relaxing and entertaining.

Regardless of how you may want to enhance your landscape to better showcase - and enjoy - your gardening prowess, it’s a good idea to speak with your insurance agent after making any significant changes to your property.

“Our homes are typically where we

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spend the majority of our time, so it’s natural to want to customize them to our specific needs and wants. However, renovations - including those done outdoors - can increase a home’s replacement cost if it’s damaged or destroyed,” said O’Rourke. “Talking to your agent about enhancements you’ve made will help ensure you’re properly insured so you can enjoy the fruits of your labor for many years to come.”

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2021 Home & Garden • Page 17

4 easy ideas to enhance your 2021 garden Gardening enthusiasm is surging thanks to our increased time at home - whether on a small-space patio or in a larger backyard. In fact, people spent 42% more time gardening in 2020 than the year before, according to Axiom Marketing’s 2021 Gardening Insight Survey, and it is estimated the pandemic contributed to creating nearly 20 million new “gardeners.” Many experts agree the trend toward nurturing flowers, plants and vegetables will continue into 2021 and beyond.

If you’re looking to test your new green thumb or bring this year’s garden to the next level, consider these top trends and simple ideas from the experts at Ball Horticultural Company: The year-round fresh and healthy garden Gardening can provide fresh access to produce that can help encourage healthy eating. You can feel confident knowing exactly where your food comes from and enjoy the satisfaction of growing it yourself. Plus, it doesn’t get fresher than picking something from your own garden just minutes before preparing a dish.

You don’t need an expansive garden to enjoy the many benefits of fresh, healthy vegetables and herbs. In fact, you don’t need a garden at all! Check out Kitchen Minis from PanAmerican Seed¬Æ and enjoy a variety of peppers and tomatoes that can be grown inside on a sunny windowsill, countertop or outside as patio tabletop plants. You can grow and harvest your own Kitchen Minis flavors most of the year.

Beiler’s of Nyesville Greenhouse Vegetable Plants, Annual Peppers, Tomato & Spring Sale Days Herbs Bedding Plants, April 23rd & 24th Open till 9 on the 23rd Seeds, Perennials, 10% Off Flowering Trees, All Plants Free Refreshments Hanging Baskets, Berry Plants, Rhubarb, Strawberry & Asparagus Plants

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The multi-purpose flower and herb garden Don’t be afraid to mix your flowers and herbs. Trending in 2021 is bundling your plants together to save space and make a multi-functional showcase. Start with a tiered fruit stand, line it with coco liner cut to fit inside each bowl space, and then add soil and plants of your choice. The handle and lightness of the stand make it easy to hang as a basket or decorate a patio or table for a beautiful and functional addition wherever you garden.

Be sure to select plants that have a lot to offer in a compact See IDEAS, Page 19

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2021 Home & Garden • Page 18

Ideas

Continued from Page 18

space. For example, herbs from Burpee Plants are ideal for small gardens, so you can enjoy fresh flavors like mint, rosemary and parsley at a moment’s notice. If you’d prefer a centerpiece or accent decor for entertaining, petunias from Wave¬Æ Petunias are low-maintenance and stunning, easily adding a punch of color to your container.

The beautiful garden for a bold and colorful outdoor living space As people spend more time enjoying the outdoors from the safety and comforts of home, they are taking a new look at their exterior spaces. Colorful blooms brighten the outdoors and elevate the mood, which is why flower gardening is flourishing.

However, people want this outdoor beauty without extensive maintenance, so ease is essential when planning your flower garden.

When it comes to pairing beauty and simplicity, Beacon¬Æ Impatiens are a great choice, especially for those whose outdoor spaces don’t get a lot of sun. Available in bright, bold colors, you can fill baskets, window boxes, patio containers and shade landscapes with Beacon to add vivid, dramatic color to your spaces and have confidence in their performance. These impatiens are low-maintenance and have high resistance to Impatiens downy mildew, a disease that has caused plant loss in recent years.

The fun family-friendly garden Having a family garden comes with many benefits. Whether it’s you and your partner at home or the entire family, gardening has proven to be a fun and safe hobby that people of all ages can do together. Enjoy spending quality time while breathing fresh air and learning important lessons from nature and the environment.

Gather everyone’s input on a plan for your family garden and work together as a team to make it a success. One plant that’s particularly fun for families to include is Lavender Primavera from Darwin Perennials. The rich purple color is visually stunning, plus lavender attracts pollinators like bees, butterflies and hummingbirds, so you’re enhancing the natural world around you.

Additionally, you’re sure to enjoy the relaxing scent wafting in the breeze, and you can harvest your lavender to use in DIY craft projects around the house or as gifts to loved ones.

Start growing today The ability to explore interests like gardening and plant care is a silver lining of spending more time at home. Gardening is a healthy activity for anyone, and there are many resources - from your local gardening store to online blogs and videos - to help you be successful. 2021 is your chance to dig in and grow.

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Trends plays a vital role in a healthy immune system.”

Garden of Joy

Gardening helps you reduce stress, move your body and enjoy the outdoors.

The psychological benefits of caring for plants can support the mental health of people at any age. That’s why individuals as well as families are planting gardens of joy, with blooms that are as pleasant as the process of gardening itself.

The garden of joy is a flow-

Continued from Page 11 er bed full of bright “faces”, including pansies and violas, that are sure to inspire many smiles of pure happiness.

Every time you tend to these happy blooms you will feel a little lift in your day, plus it brightens your outdoor landscape in a cheerful way.

World Herb Garden

Experiencing international flavors in food is an important part of traveling and with so many people pausing vacation plans, the associated explora-

tional eating has paused as well. Your palate is ready for something new and you can experience a world of flavors from your own backyard when you grow a world herb garden - no passport needed.

Herbs like lemongrass, dill and cilantro are easy to grow and offer bright flavors to enhance your favorite recipes, no matter the cuisine. Whether you use them fresh, dry or in custom blends, you’ll have a bounty of flavor at your fingertips to complement meats,

vegetables, pasta and more.

“We want to inspire all gardeners in 2021, which is why we launched the GardenCast,” says Burpee Owner George Ball. “Through these trends, we’re providing inspiration and creative ideas paired with techniques and product tips to give gardeners of all levels the tools they need to grow with confidence this season.”

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2021 Home & Garden • Page 19

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