Spring HOME IMPROVEMENT
Saving green in the garden
BY JESSICA DAMIANO Associated Press
With prices for many things creeping up this year, gardeners shopping for supplies might be looking to tighten their tool belts. Before heading to the garden center, take a look around your home, garage, shed and recycling bin. There might be some perfectly good gardening gear hiding in plain sight.
From food containers to lamp shades
Plastic yogurt containers with holes poked in their bottoms make wonderful seed-starting pots. So do plastic clamshell lettuce and berry containers.
Do you grow peonies? The plants are beautiful — for about two weeks in spring, after which they give up and lie down on the lawn. I’ve seen peony plant supports selling for $10 for thin wire cages to well over $100 for sturdier, prettier options.
But why buy them when large lampshade frames are the perfect height and shape to support the plants? Remove their fabric and place one upside down over each plant as soon as new growth pokes out of the ground, then bury their bases or use landscape pins to hold them in place.
As the plants grow, their leaves will block the frames from view. Similarly, you can spend $50 to $100 for an obelisk trellis, or you can let your plants climb an old patio umbrella frame. Cut its legs down to size, if necessary, and sink them into the ground for stability.
Use fish scraps
Fish emulsion is a fantastic organic fertilizer made from whole fish and byproducts. You can make your own by soaking fish scales, bones and entrails in a sealed 5-gallon bucket of water for at least a month, then straining the liquid and using it to water plants.
Or give your plants the same nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus,
Cherry tomato containers are repurposed to serve as seed-starting pots in
potassium, calcium, magnesium and sulfur) by burying a whole fish or fish scraps at least 10-12 inches deep under planting beds.
If you’re an angler, you may have access to a boatload of these amendments, but if you aren’t, your local fishmonger may be willing to give you scraps and heads — or sell them at low cost.
Plants will also benefit from used fish-tank water, which is rich
in nitrogen and other nutrients.
Cooking water
After boiling vegetables, cool the water and apply it to plants (as long as you didn’t add salt). It contains vitamins and minerals that will give them a boost. Water from boiled eggs contains calcium, which tomato and pepper plants love.
You can even use eggshells in place of garden lime, as they
both contain calcium carbonate. Microwave empty shells for two minutes to dehydrate them, then grind in a high-powered blender, coffee grinder or food processor. Incorporate the resulting powder into the soil around plants. The same can be done with banana peels. Dehydrated in an air fryer and and pulverized, they’ll provide plant-boosting potassium.
Jessica Damiano writes weekly gardening columns for the AP and publishes the award-winning Weekly Dirt Newsletter.
Making free lawn fertilizer is a zero-effort endeavor. Whether you use a push mower or a powered mulching mower, simply remove the bag and let the grass clippings remain on the lawn. As they break down, they’ll release nitrogen into the soil.
Variables to consider before downsizing a home in retirement
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Aspiring to save money in retirement makes perfect sense. Once professionals call it a career and are no longer drawing a paycheck, cutting back on expenses can be a sound decision that ensures seniors won’t outlive their money. And housing remains a significant expense, even for retirees who own their homes and no longer have monthly mortgage payments to make.
Many retirees seeking ways to save money consider downsizing their homes. According to the National Association of Retailers, 12% of people between the ages of 60 and 69 who move indicated their home was too large, and that%age grows among movers between the ages of 70 and 78 (16%) and those who move after turning 79 (18%). Downsizing a home in retirement can seem like an ideal means to saving money after calling it a career, but individuals pondering such a move should consider a number of variables before putting their homes up for sale.
Costs Downsizing may help retirees lower their property
and lower their monthly mortgage payments (for those who are still
rent
but that does not mean moving will not incur new expenses that ren-
communities in which they are socially active should weigh the effects of leaving that social network behind.
Retirees also can weigh the benefits of moving to 55 and over communities where they will be surrounded by people at a similar stage in life, and how living in such developments may improve their social lives.
Adjusting and adapting
Social benefits
Another variable that merits consideration is the
costs, real estate commissions, moving-related expenses, and capital gains taxes can quickly add up. In addition, retirees who currently do not pay homeowner’s association fees may be subjected to such fees when moving into a new home, and those fees can be substantial and hard to avoid. Indeed, recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicated that 71% of new constructions in the western and southern United States were built in communities with homeowner’s associations. Prior to downsizing, current homeowners should calculate all of the costs related to relocating, including anticipated HOA fees, to see if downsizing is to their financial benefit.
impact that moving can have on seniors’ social lives. The World Health Organization reports that more than one in 10 seniors experiences loneliness, which can adversely affect their physical and mental health and potentially reduce their life expectancy. Retirees currently living in
Downsizing will require an adjustment period and a willingness to adapt. Retirees may have an emotional attachment to their current homes, and leaving that behind can be a difficult adjustment. Adapting to life in a new community also can be challenging, particularly if retirees are moving from areas where there are no restrictions regarding their properties to communities where homeowners’ associations must approve of any changes to properties. Moving also may require finding new health care professionals, which can be a particularly difficult adjustment for retirees who have spent years building a strong rapport with their current health care team.
Downsizing a home might be a pathway to more financial freedom for many retirees. Seniors considering such a move can consider a number of variables to determine if moving is in their best interest.
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Downsizing a home might be a pathway to more financial freedom for many retirees.
CAROLYN LESSARD, ASSOCIATED PRESS
Waitsfield, Vt., on Monday.
BY JESSICA DAMIANO Associated Press
I’m currently dusting off my seed-starting supplies and sorting through seed packets from years past.
Seed starting is an annual ritual for many gardeners, but if you’re new to the party, it would be helpful to know that not all seeds should be treated the same way.
Many seeds only require soil and water to sprout.
Others, however, have a harder coating that makes germination a bit difficult. That’s because in the wild, they rely on birds and other wildlife that eat them to carry them far distances before dropping them.
It’s a good plan: The journey ensures biodiversity by introducing the species to another location. And the seed’s tough outer coating ensures its survival through an animal’s digestive tract, which erodes only enough of the protective layer to allow water to enter. The remaining coating prevents the seed from waking up too early, which would otherwise spell death for tender sprouts in cold temperatures.
But nature’s survival plan creates a bit of a challenge for home gardeners because the hard coating prevents those seeds from sprouting easily. So it’s up to us to mimic the effects of stomach acid to expose the seed’s inner layer so that moisture can penetrate.
This is called scarification, and there are a few ways to do it, all of which are simple.
Sanding
Nicking
Sometimes I use small nail clippers intended for babies to snip a tiny sliver off the
Rub each seed lightly against medium-grit sandpaper, an emery board or a nail file until you see a hint of its paler inner layer. This method works best with larger seeds, but you can also tuck several small ones between two sheets of sandpaper and gently rub the sheets together. Just a little friction should do the trick.
edge of the seed’s coat.
Soaking
If you have more time than wherewithal, this is the easiest method: place the seeds in a bowl, cover them with warm water, and let them sit for a few hours or overnight. They’ll swell slightly as they take in moisture, which is exactly what you want.
Some tips
Never use hot water; cooked seeds won’t grow. Keep the temperature below 150 degrees Fahrenheit. And whatever method you
choose, do it right before planting. Once the seed’s inner tissue is exposed, it will begin to dry out.
Is scarification absolutely required? No. Seeds will often sprout without it, but it could take much longer, and you’ll likely end up with far fewer seedlings. Scarified seeds don’t have to wait around for their coats to break down under soil, which is a real advantage if your growing season is short, your elevation is high or you’re a procrastinator.
Some common annuals and perennials that benefit from the practice include Indian mallow (Abutilon), columbine (Aquilegia), hollyhock (Alcea), sweet alyssum (Alyssum), milkweed (Asclepias), wild indigo (Baptisia), beautyberry (Callicarpa), bellflower (Campanula), Joe Pye weed (Eutrochium), sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus), bluebonnet (Lupine), mallow (Malva), poppy (Papaver), beardtongue (Penstemon) and nasturtium (Tropaeolum).
Edibles to scarify include all bean types, luffa, spinach, strawberry and winter squash.
Some of the really stubborn seeds — chickpeas, lima beans, nasturtiums — respond well to a one-two approach: a little nick or sanding, followed by a soak. Jessica Damiano writes weekly gardening columns for the AP and publishes the award-winning Weekly Dirt Newsletter.
PHOTOS BY JESSICA DAMIANO VIA AP
A bean seed undergoes scarification with a set of nail clippers on Feb. 17.
A bean seed undergoes scarification with a set of nail clippers on Feb. 17.
Cost-effective curb appeal boosters offer maximum output
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One shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. However, that often is hard to do, particularly when it comes to homes. Curb appeal bears significant influence regarding how a property is perceived. A property that is neat and aesthetically appealing probably will be preferable to one that looks like the homeowners did not maintain it.
Boosting curb appeal is a common focus of sellers before listing a property. But what can those who don’t have big budgets for major overhauls do to improve their curb appeal? Plenty of projects can offer maximum output with minimal investment.
Refresh the front door
Painting the front door can add brightness and improve the look of a home’s entryway.
Most exterior paint costs between $30 and $40 per gallon, so this is undeniably a budget-friendly improvement. If money allows, replacing the door altogether will generate bang for your buck.
Did you know?
Homeowners with an eye on home improvement projects should know that kitchens and bathrooms tend to be the most costly rooms to renovate. An affiliate of the National Kitchen and Bath Association told Architectural Digest in 2023 that kitchens and bathrooms require the most labor-intensive renovations, which contributes significantly to the high costs of such projects. Labor is indeed a significant cost when renovating a home, as the Construction Labor Market Analyzer indicates labor cost percentages in construction are between 20% and 40% of the total budget of a given project. The final cost of any renovation project will depend on a host of variables unique to each home, including the square footage of the room being remodeled and the materials homeowners choose. However, homeowners looking for less costly renovations may want to consider revamping their dining rooms and closets, each of which are projects that can make a difference and tend to require a less significant financial commitment than projects like kitchen and bath remodels.
Improve or add landscaping elements
Landscaping should be designed to highlight the home’s best features. It should look symmetrical and feel manicured. If it’s not possible to plant new flowers or bushes, simply cleaning up debris and weeds, and trimming existing greenery can make it feel neater and more polished. Clean up
Power-washing the siding,
cement walkways and garage door can create instant impact. It’s amazing how much dirt and mildew can reduce the luster of a home. Cleaning off years of grime can be a fast and inexpensive refresh.
Reseal the driveway
Make sure the driveway is clean and tidy. If it has cracks or discoloration, filling in cracks and applying a new coat of sealer will make a big difference. Homeowners can hire someone to reseal the
driveway or do the work on their own.
Add more lighting
Updating front porch lights and accent lights around the property will cast a more pos-
itive glow on a home, both literally and figuratively.
Add a seating area If space by the front door allows, add a bench or some chairs to create a welcoming
seating area. A potted plant or two nearby will help the area seem intentional. Improving curb appeal doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. A few easy touches can boost the look of any property.
Those thinking about overhauling their spaces with new countertops can consider the leading materials and how they rank in cost, maintenance and durability.
A rundown on countertops
ROI of kitchen renovations. According to the Journal of Light Construction’s “Cost vs. Value Report 2025,” a minor kitchen remodel offers an ROI of 113%, while a midrange remodel offers an ROI of 51%. Replacing a kitchen countertop can help homeowners see improvements to the functionality of their spaces and improve the value of their homes.
According to data from Grand View Research, the U.S. countertops market is projected to reach $35.57 billion in 2026, driven by homeowners who desire high-value renovations over relocating. Those thinking about overhauling their spaces with new countertops can consider the leading materials and how they rank in cost, maintenance and durability.
Engineered quartz
The National Kitchen & Bath Association reports that 78% of design professionals expect quartz to be the
preferred countertop material over the next several years. Quartz is non-porous, so it will resist stains, scratches and bacteria infiltration without having to be sealed. Unlike natural stone, quartz offers pattern uniformity, which makes it easier to map out seamless transitions. Quartz costs between $50 and $150 per square foot installed.
Granite
Granite still holds a considerable chunk of the countertops market and remains a solid standard for those who value a one-of-a-kind look of natural stone. Granite has exceptional heat resistance and adds significant resale value. However, it requires periodic sealing to maintain its good looks. Costs range from $40 to $190 per square foot.
Porcelain
Porcelain tiles and slabs are projected to become the fastest-growing segment in the ceramic tiles market, according to reports from Yahoo Finance. High-precision printing technology enables porcelain to mimic rare marble and other stone with superior accuracy. Porcelain is even
harder than granite and effectively impervious to UV rays. This makes the material a solid choice for outdoor kitchens. Plus, at a cost of $60 to $120 per square foot, it is competitive with other similar materials.
Butcher block
Those who appreciate a soft, organic texture and “warmth” in their spaces can look to butcher block. Wood is making a comeback, as many homeowners are moving away from stark, white designs. Butcher block is self-healing, meaning scratches can be sanded out. Butcher block costs between $50 and $150 per square foot.
Laminate
Laminate is a budget-friendly option for homeowners at $20 to $80 per square foot, but is not as durable as other materials. Some laminates mimic the look of high-end materials, and they don’t require much maintenance. Countertops affect the look and feel of kitchens and other interior and exterior spaces. Choosing materials comes down to cost, durability and maintenance.
Common areas around the home can provide additional sources of storage.
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Increasing storage capabilities at home is a popular goal among many homeowners and renters. Despite how much space a person may have at home, there’s often a desire to have more or maximize the areas that are there. According to the Self-Storage Almanac, there are an estimated 51,206 storage facilities operating in the United States today, and MJ Partners Self-Storage Update says 11.1% of households currently rent at self-storage facilities. IBISWorld indicates the Canadian self-storage industry has grown at an average annual rate of 3.1% over the last five years.
People often turn to external storage facilities to house their belongings when space is at a premium at home. Others may focus their organization energy on closets, garages and basements to free up room. But common areas around the home also can provide additional sources of storage. Common areas are locations
where people come together for activities.
Living room/ family room
Living rooms and family rooms are areas of the home where people spend many hours. These tend to be multifunctional spaces where people entertain, lounge and even enjoy movies or gaming. Possibilities in these living spaces that can create extra storage include furniture that serves double-duty. For example, a storage ottoman adds decorative appeal but also can be filled with board games or books. Cabinet-style TV stands may not be as streamlined as mounted versions, but they’re ideal places to stash games, remote controls and other accessories.
Entryway
An entryway or mudroom can quickly succumb to clutter. When organizing such a space, think about the needs of the household. A storage
bench will be a place where everyone can sit to put on shoes, and then stow footwear underneath when not in use. A wall-mounted rack can hold the current season’s jackets or sweaters, as well as purses or backpacks for easy access. A shelf with some hooks can store keys or hold a basket to store the daily mail.
Hallway and closet
Closet organization systems can be the unsung heroes in closets utilized by multiple members of the family. These customizeable components can be sized accordingly for the space, and then configured as needed with a balance of shelves and hanging racks. An out-of-the way nook or long hallway can be enhanced with a bookshelf to hold photo albums or that library that only continues to grow as new reading material is acquired.
Homeowners can make common areas more functional with the addition of storage.
Some budget-friendly ways to freshen up your home’s exterior
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As any homeowner knows, renovation projects tend to cost a lot of money. The average cost of a home renovation is di cult to gauge, as such endeavors run the gamut from complex projects like a kitchen overhaul to simpler ones like painting a room inside a home. Indeed, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry notes that scope is what drives the cost of a renovation project.
Though there might not be an “average cost” of a renovation project, homeowners can expect to spend thousands of dollars on projects that are not very small in scale. Navigating such an expense at a time when inflation remains high might be di cult for some homeowners looking to maintain the appearance of their home exteriors. However, there are many budget-friendly ways homeowners can tend to the exterior of their properties.
Power washing: Power washing won’t break the bank but it can revive the look of a home. Power washing removes dirt and grime from the siding of a home and a power washing can be used to clean porches, walkways and patios as well. Hardware chains like Home Depot and Lowes typically rent power washers, but homeowners who don’t want to do it themselves can hire a professional for a few hundred dollars, if not less. Power washing after winter can be a good idea, as the elements can take a toll on a home’s exterior. A good power washing before spring and summer entertaining season can thus give a home a fresh, clean look without breaking the bank.
Furnished front porch: A furnished front porch can serve as a welcome sign to neighbors and provide a great place to relax with a morning cup of co ee and a good book. Homeowners with a small porch won’t need to bust their budgets to upgrade their front porch furnishings. Some small chairs with bright cushions, a small table and a rug underfoot can revamp an entryway at low cost.
Window box installation: Installing window box planters is another cost-e ective way to brighten up a home’s exterior. Homeowners can hang window boxes outside windows on the front of their homes and then fill them with brightly colored flowers to add an inviting pop
There are many budget-friendly ways homeowners can tend to the exterior of their properties.
of color to their home exteriors. The experts at Better Homes & Gardens urge homeowners to take weight into consideration before buying window planters. Keep in mind that soil and developed plants can be heavy, so look for a sturdy box as well as one that has drainage holes.
Replace hardware: Another simple way to freshen up a stale exterior is to replace hardware. Door knobs, knockers, house numbers, and even the mailbox can appear dated after a while. Replacing these items is inexpensive and quick but can have a profound impact on how the exterior of a home appears to residents and visitors.
Exterior renovations need not break the bank. Various simple and inexpensive tweaks can quickly revitalize the exterior of a home.
Options to finance home improvements
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Renovating a home is a great way to impart personality indoors and out. Improvements can make spaces more livable and address safety issues. Home renovations often take residents’ lifestyles into account, and changes can be customized to accommodate a growing family or an empty nest.
No matter the job, home improvements tend to be costly. According to the financial resource SoFi, on average, the cost to renovate or remodel a whole house runs between $10 and $60 per square foot. Certain rooms demand a higher cost, with a kitchen or bathroom remodel costing around $100 to $250 per square foot due to electrical and plumbing needs. Figuring out how to pay for the improvement project is as essential to the planning process as picking out materials and contractors. The following are some financial considerations and fi nancing options for homeowners looking to renovate their properties. Consider if the investment is worth it. Remodeling magazine routinely assesses common improvements and how much homeowners can expect to recoup on the in-
vestment in its annual “Cost v. Value” report. In 2022, a homeowner spending $4,000 on a garage door replacement recouped 93.3% of the investment, whereas adding a midrange bathroom at $63,000 would only o er a 51.8% return. Homeowners must decide if they want to go forward with the project if they’re likely to get just a $33,000 return when they choose to sell the home later on.
Refi nance the home mortgage. Homeowners can use a cash-out mortgage refi nance as a way to access thousands of dollars for a remodel. This taps into a home’s equity. Keep in mind that the mortgage will then be a new mortgage at the current interest rate and an outstanding balance higher than what was the current one. Typically 20% equity in the home is needed to refi nance. Take out a personal loan. For those who do not want to refi nance, a personal loan or home improvement loan can be good for midsized projects, according to American Express. Personal loans for home renovations typically require no collateral and one’s credit score determines the interest rate. Utilize a home equity
line of credit. A HELOC is a form of revolving credit, like a credit card. Homeowners borrow against the credit line granted with the home being the collateral. As a person pays down what is owed, he or she can borrow more. This is a good idea for recurring or long-term home improvements. Try a home equity loan. Home equity loans use the home as collateral like a HELOC. The home equity loan is an installment loan for a fi xed amount on a fi xed monthly schedule for a set term. These are sometimes called second mortgages. No- or low-interest credit card. Smaller projects can be fi nanced using credit cards. Many will o er introductory rates with no interest for a few months. This is generally only preferable if a person can pay o the balance before interest is charged. These are the primary ways to fi nance home improvement projects when costs exceed available cash on hand.
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