How Low Should You Go? - The dangers of mowing too low Birds and Your Backyard
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April 2020
A Special Supplement to
How Low
Should You Go?
The dangers of
mowing too low
Birds and
Your Backyard
A guide to buying
Planting and setting up
Pointers a bird bath
Tips for planting
tomatoes
2 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
Agricultural
Monday
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217 West Wayne St. • New Madison, OH
217 West Wayne St. • New Madison, OH
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Monday - Friday 7am - 5pm A Full Service Lumberyard 937-996-1141
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• Kitchen, Bath & Home Designs • Cabinets & Countertops
OH-70179686
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Register-Herald 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Wednesday, March 25, 2020 3
How to prevent
crabgrass
Few things can give a home exte- is for unwanted grasses like crabgrass
rior that sought after wow factor as to thrive. The following are a hand-
well as a nicely maintained lawn. A ful of strategies that can promote a
lush green landscape is a great way to healthy lawn and make it more dif-
show pride in home ownership and ficult for unsightly crabgrass to estab-
improve curb appeal. lish itself in the months ahead.
As many homeowners know, lawns Keep grass at a consistent length,
are under constant attack. The ele- and don’t cut too low. Maintaining a
ments are rarely easy on lawns, and consistent length of grass by mowing
watchful eyes must always be kept at regular intervals can make it hard
open for other problems that can
plague a lawn, including crabgrass.
for crabgrass to thrive. Crabgrass
requires ample sunlight to germinate, INDEX
Crabgrass can be a formidable so grass that is not cut too short may
adversary in the summer months. keep crabgrass from growing in. Of How to prevent crabgrass����������������������������������������������������������3
According to the Penn State College course, grass should not be allowed
of Agricultural Sciences, crabgrass to grow knee-length, either. By rais- Repair bare spots in the lawn����������������������������������������������������4
begins as seeds. These seeds germi- ing blades to the mowing height
nate in spring or early summer. While appropriate for their type of grass, Tips for planting tomatoes���������������������������������������������������������5
crabgrass dies after the first hard and mowing at regular intervals
frost in fall, crabgrass seeds remain 8 Garden Tools for Beginners����������������������������������������������������6
so the grass remains at that height
dormant in winter, and the seeds then through the summer, homeowners The dangers of mowing too low�������������������������������������������������7
grow again in the following spring can promote healthy lawns and make
when ground temperature warms up. it harder for crabgrass to germinate. Signs your tools may need some TLC���������������������������������������8
Without action to prevent crabgrass Never cut too much of the blade off
seeds from germinating, homeown- of the grass. When mowing, don’t cut
Mulching mistakes to avoid�����������������������������������������������������10
ers will likely end up with patches too much of the blade off the grass The differences between organic and inorganic mulches�������11
of crabgrass throughout their lawns with each cut, even if the grass seems
every summer. especially long. As noted, cutting too 5 projects that add value���������������������������������������������������������12
The home improvement retailer low allows sunlight to reach crabgrass
Lowes® notes that a healthy lawn is seeds. But cutting too much off the A guide to buying and setting up a bird bath�������������������������13
the best defense against crabgrass.
The healthier a lawn is, the harder it
blade, even if the grass is still high Why weeds can be found everywhere��������������������������������������14
after a mow, can injure the grass.
Injured grass can make lawns more
vulnerable to weeds and crabgrass. Marathon BEODDY OIL CO.
Apply a pre-emergence herbicide. best in the long run HOME • FARM • INDUSTRY • COMMERCIAL
Pre-emergence herbicides kill ger-
minating grass seedlings before they • HEATING OILS
emerge from the soil. Follow the • LUBRICATING
manufacturer’s instructions regard-
ing when and how much herbicide to • GASOLINE 456-4224 OR
apply. If crabgrass has already started • DIESEL FUEL 800-768-0959
to grow, it’s likely too late to apply a • HYDRAULIC & CUTTING OIL
pre-emergence herbicide.
Crabgrass is an unwelcome invader 601 N. Walnut & RR • Eaton
in many lawns. Spring can be a great Beoddy Mara-Mart
OH-70179688
time to prevent this unwanted guest
from returning this summer.
400 S. Barron St. • 1697 N. Barron St. • Eaton
4 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
Caring for a lawn to keep it lush and green can up and texture so that it is amenable to grass-
Repair
require equal measures of patience and hard work. growing. If you notice that the entire lawn is
Various invaders can attack grass or contribute to looking a little sparse, top-dressing the rest of
its demise. One problem many homeowners face is the lawn at this point also can help improve its
bare spots. vitality.
Bare spots can occur for various reasons. Heavy • Sprinkle seeds in the bare spot (disperse seeds
bare
foot traffic, grubs or other pests, fungi, pet urine, over the rest of the lawn if you want to over-seed
or too much or too little water can contribute to and improve the thickness of the lawn). If you
bare spots. The how-to resource The Spruce says prefer sod, cut a portion of the sod to fit the bare
that correcting the source of bare spots can prevent area and place on the amended soil.
new issues, particularly if grubs or other pests are
spots
damaging the grass. Then homeowners can address • The Scotts® company says to lightly water
existing bare areas. newly seeded or sodded areas daily for at least
It is unlikely that bare spots will just fill back in two weeks to keep the top inch of soil consistent-
on their own. Reseeding spots or using sod to fill in ly moist but not soggy. Gradually water more as
bare areas can help lawns look lush. the seedlings develop and the grass begins to fill
in the
in. Deep water at least once or twice a week after
• Begin by raking and removing any dead grass the new grass reaches mowing height.
and other debris from the lawn. Check to make
sure that grubs or insects are not attacking the • The grass should grow slightly longer than the
lawn. If they are, use targeted treatment options rest of the lawn, and wait until the color of the
lawn
for those pests. patched area begins to blend in with the rest of
the lawn before mowing. This could take a few
• Break up and aerate any soil that is compacted in weeks, and the area should be avoided until then.
the bare spot. Eventually, and with treatment, bare spots can be
• Amend the soil in the bare area with loamy soil remedied and become indistinguishable from other
or compost to improve on the nutritional make- areas of the lawn.
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Register-Herald 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Wednesday, March 25, 2020 5
Tips for planting Slicing into the first tomato of the
season is a much anticipated moment
eight weeks before the last frost date.
Gradually introduce seedlings to the
Give the plants support. Tomato
cages or stakes can help keep the
tomatoes
for gardeners. Tomatoes are among elements for a few hours each day, leaves and fruit from touching the
the most popular fruit or vegetable increasing the duration of time out- ground, which can cause rot and,
plants grown in home gardens. Much side. Then they can be transplanted eventually, death to the tomato plant.
of that popularity may be credited to outdoors when temperatures are con- Lay down a layer of mulch. Toma-
the fact that red, ripe tomatoes have sistently over 60 F. toes grow best when the soil is
a delicious, juicy flavor that serves as Choose a sunny spot. Tomatoes consistently moist. Mulch can help
the basis for all sorts of recipes. And love to soak up sunlight, according retain moisture from watering and
since tomatoes can just as easily be to The Home Depot. Place the plants rain. Mulch also will help prevent soil
grown in a full backyard garden or in a sunny spot so they can thrive. and soilborne diseases from splash-
in a container on a patio or balcony, Space out plants. The experts at
ing on the leaves and plants when
tomatoes appeal to gardeners regard- Better Homes and Gardens say to
it rains. While you amend the soil,
less of their living situations. leave anywhere from 24 to 48 inches
While tomatoes are relatively easy between plants to accommodate for make sure that it drains well and is
to grow, they are prone to certain growth and ensure the plants will not slightly acidic.
problems and pests. Knowledge of get stunted. Prune away suckers. Tomatoes
what to expect when planting toma- Plant deeply. Tomatoes tend to root produce “suckers,” which are leaves
toes and how to start off on the right along their stems. If transplants are that shoot out from the main stem.
footing can help produce a season’s long and lean, dig a trench and lay the Removing these leaves promotes
worth of delicious bounty. stem sideways in the dirt, and then air circulation and keeps the plant’s
Wait until after the last average bend the top of the plant upward. energy focused on growing fruit.
frost date. Tomatoes can be grown Snip off the lower branches and cover Tomatoes are a rich addition to any
from seeds outdoors in warm areas, with soil up to the first set of leaves. garden. A few simple tricks can help
PARTS • SALES • SERVICE • PRECISION FARMING
but tomato gardeners often find suc- This will produce extra root growth even novice gardeners grow delicious
cess starting seeds indoors six to and stronger, more vital plants. tomatoes.
Employee
Owned.
Customer
Focused.
PARTS • SALES • SERVICE • PRECISION FARMING
Eaton, OH Crawfordsville, IN Georgetown, OH
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1980 US Route 35 E Plymouth, IN Remington, IN Terre Haute, IN Wilmington, OH Winamac, IN Wingate, IN
(937) 456.6281 (574) 936.2523 (219) 261.4221 (812) 234.2627 (937) 382.0941 (574) 946.6168 (765) 275.2270
OH-70179704
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6 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
8 garden tools
for beginners
The right tool for the job is essen- 5. Hand trowel: A hand trowel is a
tial to working safely and efficiently. handy tool that lets you dig holes
This is as true in the workplace as it or unearth weeds. While shopping
is in the garden. for a trowel, consider getting a
Novice gardeners may not know hand-held garden fork, which can
where to begin in regards to which aerate soil and cut through roots.
tools they need. The following are 6. Hose/watering can: Keeping
eight items that can serve as a solid gardens hydrated is part of
foundation for beginning gardeners. ensuring their health. That makes
1. Gloves: Your hands will be work- a hose and a watering can two
ing hard, so it pays to protect them invaluable tools to have around.
from calluses, blisters, splinters, Invest in a lightweight, expandable
insects, and dirt. Look for water- hose if storage space is at a
resistant gloves that are also premium. An adjustable nozzle will
breathable. enable you to customize the water
flow as needed. A watering can is
2. Hand pruners: Hand pruners an easy way to tote water to hard-
are essential for cutting branches, to-reach pots and containers.
cleaning up shrubs, dead-heading
flowers, and various other tasks. 7. Garden kneeler: Gardeners often
Choose ergonomic, no-slip bend and kneel while working in the
handles that will make work soil. That puts pressure on the back
easier. Rust-resistant, nonstick and knees. A comfortable garden
blades also are handy. kneeler with memory foam or one
made from shock-absorbing material
3. Wheelbarrow: A wheelbarrow can can reduce aches and pains.
transport gear to garden beds or
tote dirt, leaves, rocks, and other 8. Garden hoe: Garden hoes till soil,
remove weeds and perform many
materials around the landscape. A
other tasks. A garden hoe can be
good wheelbarrow is strong but light
used along with a full-sized shovel,
enough to maneuver when full.
trowel and garden rake.
4. Loppers: Long-handled loppers This list is just the tip of the
will fit the bill for thick branches. garden tool iceberg. Visit a garden
The long handles provide leverage center and speak with a professional
OH-70179687
OH-70124064
to cut through branches an inch or about other tools that can be added
more in diameter. to the mix.
Register-Herald 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Wednesday, March 25, 2020 7
S t a n’ s OVER 30 YRS EXPERIENCE
BODY SHOP FREE ESTIMATES
CHIEF E-Z LINER & VELOCITY
• Complete Paint Specialist
• Heavy Collision Work
• Fiberglass & Metal Work
The dangers of mowing • Future Cure Spray Booth Precision
Collision
too low
Repair
BODY WORK ON ALL MAKES
INSURANCE
CLAIMS INVITED
Spring marks the return of many attack grass as it recovers from
things. Trees and flowers begin to injury, and before homeowners CHIEF E•Z-LINER & GENESIS GOLD
bloom again in spring, while warmer know it, their lawns are overcome
temperatures are welcomed back with with a host of problems. Body Work On All Makes
open arms. Grass also begins to grow
again in the spring. That means it’s
• Cutting too low allows crab- Insurance Claims Invited
grass to thrive. Crabgrass needs
not too long before homeowners have ample sunlight to grow. By cut-
to dust off their lawn mowers and ting grass too low, homeowners
get to work. Those who don’t neces- may unknowingly be promoting
sarily enjoy mowing the lawn may be crabgrass growth. Crabgrass is
tempted to cut their grass very low, unsightly and can rob surrounding
as doing so can mean longer intervals grass of the moisture it needs to
between mowing sessions. However, grow. So lawns cut too low may
mowing grass too low can have a very not only lose their lush appeal
adverse effect on a lawn. thanks to the unattractive appear-
• Cutting too low can injure the ance of crabgrass, but also because
grass. Cutting grass too low can areas surrounding the crabgrass
injure the grass, creating what’s patches might turn brown due to
essentially a domino effect of lack of water.
problems to come. Injured grass • Cutting too low can stress the
456-1387
will focus on its recovery efforts, grass. Cutting too low also makes
thereby making it vulnerable to lawns vulnerable to summer heat.
other issues. Without blades tall enough to
• Cutting too low promotes weed block some of the summer sun,
growth. Injured grass is vulnerable grass can quickly succumb to sum-
to invaders, including weeds and
insects. Weeds and insects can
mer heat, leading to dried out,
discolored lawns.
410 N. Cherry - Eaton, OH. OH-70179689
8 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
POWERFUL,
Signs your tools
may need some
NEWSPAPER REPRODUCTION NOTE:
T LC
POWERFUL,
133LPI minimum required,
PREMIUM, 150LPI recommended.
NEWSPAPER REPRODUCTION NOTE:
133LPI minimum required,
PREMIUM,
PERFORMANCE!
A150LPI
do-it-yourselfer
recommended.is only as good as
his or her tools. Without the proper
tools, even the handiest men and
power tool that’s not starting to see if
dust or dirt is the culprit. If so, clean
the tool and then try to start it again.
PERFORMANCE! women may struggle to complete jobs
well within their abilities.
Loss of power
Some power tools may start but still
It doesn’t take a seasoned do-it- lack the extra muscle that make power
SPECIAL yourselfer to recognize when ham- tools more beneficial than manual
FINANCING mers and screwdrivers need to be tools. In such instances, the carbon
SPECIAL * replaced. And such tools are generally brushes might need to be replaced.
AVAILABLE
FINANCING so affordable that replacing them, The online resource ereplacement.
AVAILABLE* even when they still have some util- parts.com notes that heat damage to
ity, won’t affect too many DIYers’ brushes can reduce the overall con-
budgets. However, power tools are ductivity of the brush, resulting in
considerable investments that do not less power reaching the tool’s motor.
necessarily need to be discarded when In such instances, replace the car-
the first signs of trouble pop up. In bon brushes. In addition, chipped or
fact, sometimes power tools just need damaged brushes can result in incon-
some TLC to become useful once sistent power output. Replacing the
again. The following are some com- brushes in such instances may be all
Broadmoor™ Lawn Tractor Courier™ Zero Turn Mower mon symptoms of power tool prob- that’s necessary to restore a tool to its
Broadmoor
• ™
Lawn
Briggs & Stratton Tractor
Professional Series™ Courier
• Briggs™& Zero
StrattonTurn Mower
Professional Series™ lems, and what may be behind those powerful self.
V-Twin Engine with ReadyStart ® V-Twin Engine with ReadyStart or ™
problems.
®
• Briggs & Stratton Professional Series
™
• Briggs & Stratton Professional Series
• Exclusive Suspension
V-Twin Engine Comfort ®System™
with ReadyStart
Kawasaki® FR651 V-Twin Engine
V-Twin Engine with ReadyStart or
® Burning smell
• (SCS ™
) forSuspension
Exclusive a SmootherComfort
Ride** System™ • Front or Front
Kawasaki ® & Rear
FR651 Suspension
V-Twin Engine for Difficulty starting Many a DIYer has dealt with a
• (SCS ™
) for a Smoother
Free Floating ™ Ride**for
Mower Deck • a Smooth
Front Ride& Rear Suspension for
or Front A power tool that won’t start can power tool that emits an odor of
• Integrated Rear Cargo Bed† for Added
• Ballpark Stripes
Free Floating Mower Deck for
™
a Smooth Ride
Versatility
delay a project. But a tool that won’t burning. The power tool experts at
• IntegratedinRear
YourCargo
Yard Bed† for Added
• Ballpark Stripes
Automatic Controlled Traction™ for • Versatility
Easy-to-Use in 13-Position
Your Yard Height-of-Cut start should not be immediately writ- Grainger notes that tools like sanders
• Superior Traction
Automatic Controlled Traction™ for • Adjustment
Easy-to-Use 13-Position Height-of-Cut ten off, especially not before DIYers contain drive belts, and these belts
•
Superior Traction
Electric Height-of-Cut for Easy • Adjustment
Durable Fabricated Mower Deck with employ a multimeter. The cost of should be the first place to look when
• Adjustment
Electric Height-of-Cut for Easy
Adjustment
• Durable Fabricated
Limited Lifetime Mower
Warranty‡ Deck with digital multimeters varies widely, tools produce a burning smell. When
Limited Lifetime Warranty‡
• LED Headlights •
•
Ergonomic
Ergonomic
Mesh Seat Keeps You Cool
Mesh Seat Keeps You Cool
with some retailing for less than $20 the drive belt is to blame, the tool will
• LED Headlights and Comfortable
and Comfortable while others sell for hundreds and typically stop working even when the
hundreds of dollars. Serious DIYers motor is running. Capacitors may be
STOP IN TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD SIMPLICITY®
STOP IN TO YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD SIMPLICITY® who spend every weekend working on behind the burning smell when using
DEALER
DEALER TO
TO TEST
TEST DRIVE
DRIVE A
A SIMPLICITY
SIMPLICITY TRACTOR
TRACTOR one project or another may find the tools without drive belts. Sometimes
OR ZERO TURN MOWER TODAY! more expensive multimeters more to tools have simply overheated. When-
OR ZERO TURN MOWER TODAY! their liking, but many weekend war- ever DIYers get a whiff of that burning
Place
riors canDealer
Place get by Imprint
Dealer with less
Imprint Here
Hereexpensive smell, turn off the tool immediately
3598 Quaker Trace Rd., (Place
(Place your
your dealer
alternatives. information
Multimeters
dealer here)
informationare useful
here) and let it sit for 30 minutes before try-
West Alexandria, OH because they can measure voltage on ing to diagnose the problem. Replac-
(937) 787-3911 a power tool to determine if power is ing these parts can restore them to
effectively moving through the tool. full usefulness and get rid of that
www.quakertracetractor.com Dust and dirt also can compromise unwelcome aroma.
power tools. This may be especially Replacing worn or damaged power
OH-70179701
Note: features
Note: features vary
vary by
by model.
model. likely in spring, a time synonymous tool parts as opposed to the tools
** Subject
Subject to
to credit
credit approval.
approval. Minimum
Minimum monthly
monthly payments
payments required.
required. See
See dealer
dealer for
for details.
details. **Results
**Results ofof Suspension
Suspension Comfort
Comfort System
System™ depend
depend on
on grass/yard
grass/yard conditions.
with home renovations, when many themselves is often the most budget-
™
conditions.
†50
†50 lb.
lb. capacity,
capacity, do
do not
not overload;
overload; do
do not
not carry
carry passengers.
passengers. Standard
Standard on
on most
most models.
models. See
See operator’s
operator’s manual
manual for
for details.
details. ‡See
‡See operator’s
operator’s manual
manual or
or www.simplicitymfg.com
www.simplicitymfg.com for
for complete
complete warranty
warranty details.
details.
www.simplicitymfg.com
homeowners pick up their tools for friendly way to get these must-have
www.simplicitymfg.com 180011C
180011C the first time in months. Inspect a DIY accessories back on track.
Register-Herald 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Wednesday, March 25, 2020 9
937-526-4501 “FOR OVER 100 YEARS”
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OH-70009996
10 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
THERE IS NO OFFSEASON
masseyferguson.us
For you, there are only two seasons: Hunting season. And getting-ready-for-hunting season. There’s prepping and planting
Mulching mistakes
food plots. Setting up your tree stand. And, just like you, Massey Ferguson® compact and utility tractors are ready to get the job
done, every day. We’ve reinvented what compact tractors can be. Redesigned what they look like. And redefined what they do.
The hunt for your perfect tractor ends at your Massey Ferguson dealer.
For you, there are only
Dealer Imprint Area two seasons: masseyferguson.us
Hunting
CHECK OUT THE
hunting
GC1700
season. And getting-ready-for-
MASSEY FERGUSON
& 1700season.
SERIES
Dealer Imprint Area
There’s prepping and
rporation. AGCO® and Massey Ferguson® are trademarks of AGCO. All rights reserved. MF18TK007CRv01 to avoid in flower beds
planting food plots. Setting up your
© 2018 AGCO Corporation. Massey Ferguson is a brand of AGCO Corporation. AGCO® and Massey Ferguson® are trademarks of AGCO. All rights reserved. MF18TK009CRv03
Landscape features vary signifi-
cantly from house to house. Some
ia Cooperative Extension at Virginia
Tech and Virginia State University
tree stand. And, just like you, Massey homeowners may prefer water fea- recommends applying mulch no less
tures on their properties, while others than two inches in depth. Anything
Ferguson® compact and utility tractors are focus on flowers that would be the less than that will prove ineffective at
envy of a botanical garden. Regardless preventing weed growth and helping
ready to get the job done every day. We’ve of those preferences, lawn and garden the soil retain moisture,
enthusiasts who want to make their and that means you will need to water
reinvented what compact tractors can be. properties as idyllic as possible may more often.
Redesigned what they look like. eventually look to mulch to help them
accomplish that goal.
Poorly located mulch: Mulch should
not be placed too close to plant stems
And redefined what they do. Mulch helps soil retain moisture,
which promotes strong, healthy flow-
or tree trunks. When it is, tissue is
so wet that it makes for a perfect
The hunt for your ers, plants, trees, and shrubs. And environment for disease and insect
because soil beneath mulch retains infestation.
perfect tractor more moisture than soil that’s not pro- Failing to mulch to the drip line:
tected by mulch, homeowners won’t The drip line of a tree refers to the
ends at your have to spend as much time watering outermost circumference of the tree’s
mulched landscapes. That saves time canopy from which water drips onto
Massey Ferguson and conserves water, which can be a the ground. The VCE recommends
dealer. big benefit in areas prone to drought
and/or especially hot summers. Mulch
mulching to the drip line of a plant or
tree, which ensures the plant or tree
also helps to suppress weed growth, will get the most out of the mulch.
which can ensure all that hard work Mulching to the drip line also mini-
needed to create an eye-catching mizes competition from the grass,
STEINKE
garden won’t be compromised by the leading to stronger plants and trees.
CHECK OUT THE presence of unsightly, thirsty weeds. Failing to weed before mulching:
TRACTOR
MASSEY FERGUSON Mulching seems like a simple task, Weeds should be removed prior to
and it can be. But that does not mean mulching. If they’re not, the mulch
GC1700 & homeowners cannot make mistakes can provide the same growing envi-
1700 SERIES SALES INC. when mulching. The following are ronment for weeds that you’re trying
© 2018 AGCO Corporation. Massey Ferguson is a
937-456-4271 some common mulching mistakes to
avoid as lawn and garden season hits
to create for your plants and trees.
Mulching benefits a landscape in
brand of AGCO Corporation. AGCO® and Massey
Ferguson® are trademarks of AGCO. All rights
707 South Barron St. full swing. myriad ways, especially when home-
OH-70179691
reserved. MF18TK009CRv03 Eaton, Ohio 45320 Not enough mulch: Mulch is ineffec- owners avoid some common mulch-
tive when spread too thin. The Virgin- ing mistakes.Register-Herald 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Wednesday, March 25, 2020 11
The differences
between organic and
inorganic mulches Building Condos in Cobblestone Trail
off of East Ave., Eaton, OH
The benefits of mulch are widely crushed stone are examples of inor-
known among lawn and garden ganic mulches. Homeowners who
enthusiasts. By insulating soil from do not intend to plant after laying Senior Condominium Development
extreme temperatures, helping soil mulch may lean toward inorganic
to retain moisture and preventing mulches, as they won’t require much Age 55 and over
weed growth, mulch can help plants, work, if any, after being laid. How-
trees and gardens thrive, even dur- ever, the Chicago Botanic Garden Check out the condos in progress
ing periods when Mother Nature notes that inorganic mulches do not
can make that very difficult. improve soil quality. In fact, because Call JP Frizzell Construction LLC to set up an appointment to get started
Novice gardners may find them- inorganic mulches like rocks and
selves a little confused when visiting stones absorb heat, they can be det-
a lawn and garden center to pur- rimental to plants in areas where •Walking Paths
chase mulch. That’s because there weather tends to be very
are various types of mulches. One of dry and hot. •A Neighborly Life Style
The right mulch for a given
the ways to simplify that is to break
property depends on a host of fac-
•Great Location
mulches down into two main class-
es: organic and inorganic. Learning tors. Understanding the differences •Quiet Neighborhood
to distinguish between these two between organic and inorganic
classes can help homeowners choose mulches is a great first step toward •Maintenance Free Exterior
the best mulch for their properties. finding the right mulch for your
landscape. •Choice of Floor Plans
Organic mulch
Organic mulches are made up •2 & 3 Bedrooms Available
of materials that decompose over
time. The experts at BobVila.com •Clubhouse & Pool
note that, because they decompose (will build at later date)
over time, organic mulches must be
replenished on a regular bais. Hard- •Pond
wood and softwood chips are among
the most popular and recognizable
organic mulches. Evergreen needles,
leaves, grass clippings, and compost
mixes also fall under the organic
mulch umbrella. Many gardening
enthusiasts prefer organic mulches
because they help soil retain mois-
ture, improve soil fertility and help
to deter weed growth.
Inorganic mulches 1727 North Barron St., Eaton, OH 45320
Inorganic mulches are permanent
OH-70179693
because they do not decompose www.jpfrizzellconstruction.com
over time. Gravel, brick chips and12 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
5 outdoor projects
that add value
MEMORY CARE IS AVAILABLE AT THE
GREENBRIAR SENIOR LIVING CAMPUS
PEACE OF MIND
SECURE AND SAFE ENVIRONMENT
SECURE OUTDOOR PATIO AND GARDEN AREA
STRUCTURED GROUP ACTIVITIES Exterior renovations can enhance much of the year. In the spring and
the appearance of a property and summer, the firepit is a great place
make it more enjoyable for home- to congregate to roast marshmal-
owners. Certain renovations have lows or sip wine and gaze into the
the potential to add value to a home, fire. In the fall, the fire pit can make
while others may do the opposite. for a cozy retreat. A fire pit that has
Learning which one have the larg- a gas burner is low-maintenance,
est return on investment can help and the National Association of
homeowners select features that will Landscape Professionals says that
have the most positive impact. most can recoup about $4,000 of
Curb appeal goes a long way their $6,000 average price tag.
toward attracting potential buyers. Softscaping: Hardscaping refers
According to the National Associa- to structures like outdoor kitchens
tion of Realtors, first impressions of or decks. Softscaping involves the
a property have a strong influence living elements of the landscape.
on buyers. Landscaping and external Hiring a landscape designer to
features can do much to influence install trees, shrubs, natural edging,
such impressions. and rock elements can do wonders
ALSO AVAILABLE: Lawn care program: Investing in toward improving the look and value
a lawn care program that consists of of a home.
RESPITE CARE fertilizer and weed control applica- Pool or water feature: In certain
Respite care provides temporary relief for a primary tion and can be transferred over to a markets, particularly hot climates,
subsequent home owner is an attrac- a pool or another water feature is a
caregiver, enabling you to take a much-needed tive feature. NAR says such a care must-have. However, in other areas
break from the demands of caregiving a sick, aging, program can recover $1,000 in value where outdoor time is limited, a
or disabled family member. of the $330 average cost, or a 303 pool or water feature can actually
percent ROI. lower the value of a home. Speaking
CALL VIKKI IN ADMISSIONS FOR MORE Low-maintenance lifestyle: When with a real estate professional
choosing materials for projects, those can give homeowners an idea of
INFORMATION AND TOURING that offer low-maintenance benefits how a pool will fare in a given
can be preferential. These include neighborhood.
937-456-9535 low-maintenance patio materials, Outdoor improvements can
composite decking, vinyl fencing, improve the marketability of a
and inorganic mulched beds. home, as well as enhance its appear-
OH-70179695
Fire pit: A fire pit can be used for ance and function.Register-Herald 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Wednesday, March 25, 2020 13
A guide to buying and
setting up a bird bath
Warm weather means more oppor-
tunities to spend time outdoors while
at home. Whether your favorite form
of outdoor recreation includes sitting CAR LOADER GOOSE NECK
on the patio reading or digging in the
garden, there’s a good chance that you EASY ON-EASY OFF GRAIN TRAILER
will be sharing the space with local
wildlife. Optimizing opportunities to
view and interact with backyard wild-
life can make the great outdoors even
more enjoyable.
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology
indicates that there are around 2,059
bird species on the continent of North
America. Red-winged blackbirds,
yellow-rumped warblers, American
robins, and chipping sparrows are
among the most commonly seen birds
in North America.
Making a backyard hospitable to
HYDRAULIC SKID LOADER
birds can increase the chances for
sightings and hearing their sweet
It is important to keep the water
in a bird bath shallow (around two DUMP TRAILERS TRAILERS
songs. Installing a bird bath can be a inches of water or less). This enables
step in the right direction. birds to splash around safely and
Bird baths can make yards more
attractive to birds. Birds require
wade in.
Birds do not want to slide around, COME SEE US FOR TRAILER NEEDS
a supply of fresh, clean water for so a material that is coated and slip-
Cox
drinking and bathing. By setting up pery, like glazed ceramic or glass, may
a bath, homeowners can attract not not be too popular. Rough stone or a
only seed-loving birds, but those bird bath modified with pea gravel or
that don’t eat seeds and wouldn’t rocks can give birds steady footing.
normally congregate around feeders, Place the bird bath in the shade if
possible to ensure the water is cool
TRAILERS
indicates All About Birds. Experts
surmise that birds may bathe to and fresh. Locate it by a tree so the
maintain their feathers. birds can hop up to a branch and
Not all bird baths are constructed preen afterwards. All About Birds
the in the same fashion. Many bird also says that a bird bath is more
baths sold in stores are better suited attractive if it has a dripping or mov- www.coxtrailer.com
for decoration than for serving as ing water feature, as this is often irre-
functional baths. There are four gen- sistible to birds.
eral types of bird bath: standing ped- Another way to ensure the bath will
8903 St. Rt. 751 • Arcanum • OH 45304
estal, hanging bath, deck-mounted, be used is to keep it clean and main-
and ground-level. In general, the tained. Change the water every day
lower a bird bath is to the ground, the or two. Rinse off the bath to remove
937-548-4699
more likely birds are to use it. Most droppings, bugs and other debris.
natural sources of water birds use are Once birds learn there is a comfort-
on or near the ground. Therefore, able bath nearby, they may be more
OH-70179692
ground-level bird baths may be the apt to visit a yard and may even
best investments. become frequent guests.14 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
Why weeds can be
found everywhere
Just
The ubiquitous nature of weeds ability to reproduce both sexually
can make them seem like they can and asexually. Successful weed plants
grow anywhere, and that’s because also are clever in terms of getting
they can. Weeds can grow anywhere around, as their seeds can attach to
there’s room for them to sprout, people and animals and even float
including gardens, sidewalks, drive- on water. Weeds also put up a fight
add
ways, and parking lots. One of the when they’re confronted by humans.
things that helps weeds spread so Humans who try to pull weeds may
much is how productive they can instead break them. The broken
be at producing seeds. An actively weeds can then resprout, ultimately
growing weed plant will produce spreading their seeds again. The
thousands of seeds and disperse resiliency of weeds also is evident in
water.
those seeds throughout the season. their ability to stay dormant for long
One of the more recognizable weeds periods of time. For example, weeds
is the dandelion. During its growing can stay in the soil for years before
season, a dandelion can effectively germinating, proving that these
spread its seeds thanks in large part unwelcome guests aren’t
to the wind, which can blow seeds just pesky, but also
all over, thereby allowing a single patient.
dandelion to spread its seeds far and
wide. Penn State Extension notes
Managing your medications that successful weed plants share
many characteristics, including an
has never been easier.
Your medications come organized
by date and time, securely sealed in
individual easy-open packages.
Call or come by for details.
Camden Village Pharmacy
75 W Central Ave
Camden, OH 45311
937-452-1263
camdenrx@gmail.com
OH-70179702Register-Herald 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Wednesday, March 25, 2020 15
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• RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL SALES & SERVICE
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OH-7017968516 Wednesday, March 25, 2020 2020 SPRING LAWN & GARDEN Register-Herald
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