HOMEstyle & Garden: Spring 2022

Spring is here

Renovate, redecorate, reorganize!

Spring 2022

A supplement to the Skagit Valley Herald and Anacortes American

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HOMEstyle & GARDEN SPRING 2022

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4 must-have features for the ultimate dream kitchen Are you updating your kitchen?

If so, here are four fabulous features you may want to consider installing.

1. Pot filler A pot filler is a swing-out faucet on a long, jointed arm that’s generally mounted over the stove. Pot fillers are extremely convenient and prevent you from having to lug heavy, water-filled pots from sink to stove.

2. Farmhouse sink With their white, fireclay basins and tall, stainless-steel faucets, modern farmhouse sinks aren’t only stylish; they’re also wider and deeper than standard kitchen sinks. This helps make cooking and cleaning a breeze.

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3. Double oven Double ovens provide extra cooking space, so you have the flexibility to whip up multiple dishes simultaneously. They’re especially convenient if you do a lot of entertaining.

4. Built-in refrigerator If you want your kitchen to have a streamlined and uniform profile, a built-in refrigerator is the way to go. Built-in refrigerators sit flush with the rest of the kitchen cabinetry in the space and offer an upmarket appearance.

If you’re designing your dream kitchen, keep in mind, you don’t have to do it alone. Consider reaching out to a home designer or general contractor in your area for help.

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In This Issue

RENOVATE, REDECORATE, REORGNIZE 2 4 must-have features for the ultimate dream kitchen 4 4 affordable alternatives to hardwood floors

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SKAGITPUBLISHING 1215 Anderson Road Mount Vernon, WA 98274 ads@skagitads.com P: 360.424.3251 Restocking: 360.424.3251 ©2022 Skagit Publishing LLC All rights reser ved.

6 Metal vs. shingled roofs 7 4 must-have accessories for your home 8 What you should do before buying new furniture 9 4 factors to consider when decorating with flowers THE SAVVY GARDENER 10 Companion plants for tomatoes 10 How to rotate crops in your garden

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11 4 criteria for choosing a tree

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11 How to recognize and treat chlorosis 12 5 strategies to ward off squirrels 13 7 must-have tools and accessories for novice gardeners

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13 4 attractive types of mulch

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14 When to sow and plant melons

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14 How to choose which peppers to grow in your garden 15 25 tasks to take care of in Spring HOMEstyle & GARDEN SPRING 2022

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4 affordable alternatives to hardwood floors If you want the high-end look of hardwood floors

without the hefty price tag, there are more affordable options. Here’s an overview.

1. Vinyl

This type of flooring can be designed to look like wood but has all the benefits of vinyl. It’s scuff, dent and scratch resistant and will stand up to everyday wear and tear.

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Furthermore, certain types of vinyl planks feature click-lock technology, which makes them easy to install.

2. Cork Cork is sustainably harvested and environmentally friendly. This renewable resource is resistant to insects, mold and mildew and naturally anti-microbial. In addition, cork flooring provides a comfortable cushion underfoot,

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making it ideal for people with back and joint issues.

4. Engineered bamboo

3. Laminate

Made by bonding a thin layer of bamboo onto a plywood or fiberboard core, this type of flooring has a plasticated top for added protection. It’s stylish, robust and easy to maintain, and since bamboo is a wholly renewable resource, this product is an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers.

Durable and available in a wide variety of styles and colors, laminate flooring is stain and moisture resistant.This type of flooring offers a shine that lasts year after year and is ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.

For the best possible results, make sure your new flooring is professionally installed.

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shingles need to be replaced every 15 to 20 years, which can end up being costly in the long run.

Metal vs. shingled roofs

Metal roofs are known for their durability and

ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

They’re extremely long-lasting and won’t show signs of degradation for upward of 50 years.

If you’re in the market for a new roof, you might

question whether traditional shingles or metal sheeting will work best for your home. Here’s an overview of what these options have to offer.

Shingled roofs are quicker and easier to install than metal roofs. One of the biggest advantages of using shingles is that they’re readily available and come in a large variety of colors and materials, including fiberglass and asphalt.

Unlike metal roofs, shingles are generally covered under extensive warranties against manufacturer errors and material defects.

The biggest downside of using this material is that

This type of roofing material is noncombustible, which means its resistant to catching fire.

Metal is also a highly recyclable material and consequently a popular option for consumers looking for an eco-friendly option.

The biggest downside is that metal roofs cost significantly more upfront than shingled roofs.

Regardless of which roofing material you choose, it’s a good idea to consult several roofers. This way you can compare quotes and references to find the right contractor for the job.

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4 must-have accessories for your home Decorating with accessories is

a great way to quickly and affordably enhance the look of your home. Here are a few suggestions.

1. Rugs come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors and textures. To create the perfect look, make sure you choose a floor covering that matches the style of your home 2. Plants can instantly make your space feel bright and lively. If you decide to purchase real plants instead of artificial ones, make sure your home has plenty of light.

3. Textiles like duvet covers, table linens, chair cushions and throws can add color and texture to your home.

Look for beautiful designs that express your personal sense of style.

4. Wall hangings like picture frames, clocks and paintings come in a variety of sizes and styles. However, make sure you don’t overcrowd your walls.You can also install shelving to display your decorative items.

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To find unique pieces, visit your local home decor stores.

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What you should do before buying new furniture

and other features that complement the out scale models of the furniture to test Do you want to refresh a room room. Finally, set a budget to narrow out different configurations. in your home? If so, consider buying down your options. new furniture. Here are a few tips for Alternatively, you can purchase an choosing the right pieces for your space. interior design app or software to CONFIGURE create a three-dimensional replica of PREPARE To ensure you choose furniture that’s your space, and use it to experiment Start by choosing a style of furniture the right size for your space, measure with different layouts. like Scandinavian, contemporary or both the furniture and room. Use graph If you need professional help to farmhouse. Then, pick out upholstery paper to draw the room, and then cut create the room of your dreams, look

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4 factors to consider when decorating with flowers Flowers are emblematic of spring and can make a great addition to your home. Here are four factors to consider when decorating with flowers.

1. Think about the decor. Flowers can be used to enhance the atmosphere of a room, so reflect on the design style you want to create.You can use floral arrangements as accent pieces or to draw out the colors in furnishings and other decorative pieces.

2. Choose the right size.You want to ensure you maintain a cohesive look when adding flowers to a space. Consider whether a room would benefit more from a single, large bouquet that draws the eye or several subtle arrangements.

3. Get creative with placement. Play around with height and texture by hanging plants in macrame holders or securing them to the wall to create a vertical flower garden. Make sure your flowers get enough natural light, as this will make their colors pop.

4. Pick the right flowers. Choose plants that don’t require more maintenance than you have time for, and consider how they grow to ensure your flowers won’t overwhelm a space. If you want to forgo the hassle, opt for dried or artificial arrangements.

Finally, keep in mind that moving or replacing your flowering plants and bouquets a few times a year is a simple way to freshen up your decor.

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Companion plants for tomatoes Are you planting tomatoes in

your garden this year? If so, here are some things you should know about companion plants.

yield. In addition, planting herbs like basil, parsley and sage near your tomatoes can prevent diseases and repel unwanted insects.

TYPES

TECHNIQUES

The best companion plants for tomatoes are asparagus, carrots, celery, onions, leeks and radishes.

Pairing these vegetables with your tomatoes can help increase their

There are several ways to plant companion herbs and vegetables to get the results you want.You can plant them in alternating rows or intersperse different plants and herbs within the same row.You can also pair each tomato plant with another compatible species.

To get the seeds and starters you need for a great growing season, visit your local garden center.

How to rotate crops in your garden Crop rotation is the practice

of growing different vegetables rather than identical or related ones in the same place every year.

Here’s what you need to know.

EXPLANATION Many disease-carrying spores and insects overwinter in the soil near the base of their target plants.

Therefore, replanting the same vegetable the following year makes

it easy for these pests to infect the new crop. Planting your vegetables in a new location every growing season will prevent these parasites from finding a host to infect in spring.

EXECUTION Ideally, crop rotation should be done over four years because some spores can remain in the soil for up to three years. However, if you have a small garden, rotating your crops every two years works just fine.This practice also prevents nutrient depletion in your soil.

To pick up vegetable seeds and starters, visit your local garden center.

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4 criteria for choosing a tree

If you want to plant one or more trees on your

property, you may be wondering what species to select. Here are four criteria to consider before you decide.

1. FUNCTION

Do you want the tree you choose to shelter your property from the sun or keep noise, wind and prying eyes at bay? Do you want it to increase your property’s curb appeal? Whatever your needs, it’s important to consider how the tree will affect your outdoor space.

2. SIZE

Find out how big your tree will be once it matures.

This will partially depend on where you choose to plant it. Additionally, if the tree has an aggressive root system, it may require more space.

3. CARE

Determine how much water and sunlight the tree needs to stay healthy.You should also investigate potential pests and diseases that could affect the tree’s growth.

4. MAINTENANCE

Some trees require frequent pruning to stay healthy and continue to grow.You may also need to regularly trim the tree to keep it away from electrical lines and other nearby obstacles.

Don’t hesitate to contact your local nursery for suggestions and advice.

How to recognize and treat chlorosis Chlorosis, a chlorophyll deficiency that results in a yellowing of normally green leaves, is a relatively common disease. It can affect many kinds of plants including roses, vines, rhododendrons and hydrangeas.

Here’s an overview.

CAUSES

Chlorosis can be a sign that your soil is nutrient deficient. If your plants are deprived of chlorophyll, the leaves are likely to turn yellow, become dry and fall off.

The most common soil deficiency is iron. However, chlorosis can also be caused by a lack of magnesium or potassium.

TREATMENT

The most effective way to prevent and treat chlorosis is to do a soil test. This will let you know if your soil lacks nutrients or contains too much calcium, which can prevent your plants from absorbing vitamins and minerals. Soil that’s too wet or dry can have the same effect. Once you understand the problem, you can make the appropriate adjustments.

Do your plants look sick? If so, reach out to a professional at your local garden center for help.

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5 strategies to ward off squirrels Squirrels are agile creatures

that like to snack on seeds and dig up flower bulbs.This can make them quite a nuisance for gardeners. If you want to keep the squirrels in your area at bay, here are five tricks to try.

1. Plant bulbs at least six inches deep, and opt for species that squirrels tend to avoid such as daffodils, hyacinths and fritillaries.

2. Cover your flower beds with chicken wire. This metal mesh will keep unwanted critters at bay without disrupting the germination of your seeds.

3. After planting, cover the soil with blood meal or chicken manure fertilizer. The odor repels squirrels and helps mask the smell of bulbs.

4. Grow aromatic plants that repel squirrels such as onion, garlic and herbs. Scented geraniums (pelargoniums) and certain other fragrant flowers will also do the trick.

5. If you have a cat or dog, let it roam near your garden.Your pet’s presence, as well as the fur and scent it leaves behind, will serve as a deterrent.

Good luck!

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7 must-have tools and accessories for novice gardeners Are you new to gardening? If so, here are some

tools and accessories to stock up on before you get started.

1.Trowel. Choose a high-quality, one-piece model that’s durable and ergonomic.

2.Gloves. Look for a pair with rubberized palms and fingers for added grip and protection.

3.Spade. Whether you need to dig holes, turn over soil or loosen packed earth, look for a spade that’s the right size to suit your needs.

4 attractive types of mulch Do you want to beautify your yard? If so, here are

four mulches you may want to use in your garden.

1.Cedar mulch is available in a variety of colors. It lasts for several years and is suitable to use around the base of trees and hedges. However, it’s not recommended for flower beds or vegetable gardens.

2.Hulls from cocoa beans, peanut shells and buckwheat decompose naturally over time and nourish your soil. Consequently, vegetable gardens benefit greatly from hull mulch. However, cocoa bean hulls can be hazardous to dogs.

3.Ramial fragmented wood mulch slowly decomposes over two years. It’s made of shredded hardwood branches and is one of the best choices for vegetable gardens and flower beds.

4.Hoe. This multipurpose tool is great for large gardens. It can be used to break up packed earth, loosen weeds and dig trenches for sowing seeds and starters.

5.Hose. Pair your no-kink garden hose with a spray nozzle. Look for one with several spray patterns to meet your watering needs.

4.Recycled glass that’s been crushed into small fragments is safe to use as mulch but shouldn’t be mixed with soil. Instead, it should be layered on top of landscaping fabric. It’s perfect for plants that tolerate heat and drought.

To find mulch for your yard, visit your local garden center.

6.Rake. Look for a durable model that can be used for soil, leaves and gravel.

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7.Shovel. This landscaping essential can be used to move a variety of materials including soil and sand.

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How to choose which peppers to grow in your garden

When to sow and plant melons

Do you want to add a little spice to your life? If so, here are a few tips to help you choose peppers you’ll love to eat and grow.

Melons come in a range of sizes, flavors, colors and textures and can be grown successfully in a variety of locations. However, it’s important to know when to sow and plant them to produce good yields.

INTENSITY

SOWING

Although it may be tempting to grow the hottest peppers you can find, you don’t want to end up with dozens of them you can’t eat because they’re too potent. Therefore, make sure you choose a variety that you can comfortably handle.

PREFERENCE

Think about the recipes you like to cook and find out which types of peppers would enhance the dishes you create without masking the taste or overpowering your palate.

DIFFICULTY

In general, mild peppers germinate quicker and are easier to grow than hot peppers.Ad-ditionally, when buying pepper seeds or starters, make sure the varieties you choose are suitable for your climate.

Happy gardening!

Charley s Greenhouse & Garden

Melon seeds should be sown indoors.To do so, fill several small pots with well-draining soil and a pinch of mycorrhizae. Plant two seeds in each pot and place them in a south-facing window or under a grow light.

You can use a heat mat for quicker germination. If both seeds germinate, cut off the weaker stem once it has three leaves.

PLANTING

Choose a sunny spot that’s sheltered from the wind and has rich, well-draining soil.About a month before planting your starters, lay black plastic mulch over the area to warm the earth. After, plant them outdoors and surround them with landscaping fabric to protect them from the cool night air until the weather warms up.

To find out which melon varieties are easiest to grow in your area, visit your local garden center.

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13. Inspect your home’s foundation and seal any visible cracks.

14. Clean your gutters and make sure they’re in good condition so water drains away from your home.

When the weather starts to warm up, it’s time to take care of your spring cleaning and yard work. Here’s a list of tasks to complete both inside and outside your home.

INSIDE

1.

Sort through your belongings and throw away, sell and donate what you no longer need.

2.

Air out each room.

3.

Dust and clean the walls, ceilings, floors and carpets.

4.

Wash the windows, curtains and blinds, and reinstall your window screens.

5.

Clean out the pantry, refrigerator, freezer, cupboards, drawers and medicine cabinets.

6.

Wipe down the inside and outside of your small and large appliances.

7.

Disinfect your garbage cans.

8.

Dust all fan blades, baseboard heaters and light fixtures.

15. Check all your door and window seals and make any necessary repairs.

16. Check your home’s siding, faucets, light fixtures and electrical outlets.

17.

Wash your home’s windows and siding.

18. Wash your deck, and sand and paint it if needed.

19. Hook up your water outlets and reinstall your garden hoses.

20.

Put away your snow shovels and de-icers.

21. Open up your pool by removing the liner and turning on the water treatment system.

22. Inspect and repair your garden accessories, barbecue and tools.

23. Trim back any tree branches or shrubs that are too close to your home.

24.

Pull weeds, and rake and fertilize your yard.

25. Clean up your flower beds, remove any winter coverings and prune perennials, roses, evergreens and spring-flowering shrubs.

Don’t delay — it’s time to get to work.

9.

Vacuum your chair cushions and mattresses and turn them inside out.

10. Check the attic to ensure there’s no water or pest damage.

11. Test your air conditioning unit.

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12. Examine your home’s roof, skylights and chimney, and schedule any necessary repairs.

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Every homeowner has appliances.

So knowing your local appliance experts could come in handy someday. Located off the Anderson Rd exit in south Mount Vernon, your award-winning hometown appliance store is nearby and ready to be your go-to resource for appliance expertise.

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