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HOMEA Hersam Acorn Special Section

May 2010

Greenwich Post • The Darien Times • New Canaan Advertiser • The Ridgefield Press • The Wilton Bulletin • The Weston Forum • The Redding Pilot • The Lewisboro Ledger

Now Showing In 3D!Your Home – Renovated, Brand New

You Can Do It!Guide To Raising Organic Veggies

New Canaan’s Hidden Gems Tour Reveals Secret Gardens

2 HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn. May 2010

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May 2010 HOME, a Hersam Acorn special section, Ridgefield, Conn. 3


Thinking about landscaping your proper-ty? Why not consider bird-scaping it instead? A garden designed to attract birds will be beautiful and sustainable and have many side benefits. The same plants birds enjoy also

attract butterflies, bees and beneficial insects, so you’ll see better pollination of your flow-ers and vegetables. I bet you didn’t know the majority of insects in gardens are beneficial. So stop using chemicals to control “bad”

bugs and allow natural predator/prey rela-tionships to develop. The “good” guys, like lacewings and lady bugs, will keep the “bad” guys under control. And the birds will make sure your garden isn’t overrun by insects.

Bird-scaping is also a great excuse to stop being so regimented about garden chores. Not only is slacking off OK, it’s actually encouraged. Birds like a little bit of disorder. They appreciate the open, loose habit many trees and shrubs naturally obtain as they mature, so you can stop pruning them into geometric shapes every season. Leaving seed pods and dried flowers on perennials and ornamental grasses over the winter provides food and shelter for birds and adds interest to your winter garden. A little bit of leaf lit-ter or a small brush pile are good things in a bird-friendly garden. All you need to do is

find the right balance that works for you and the birds.

Bird-Scaping BasicsSmart bird-scaping utilizes a mix of trees,

shrubs and perennials to provide layers of all the essentials birds need to survive. Consider using native plants since they provide just the right type of food and shelter birds are look-ing for. Incorporate plants that flower, fruit or berry during different seasons. A densely planted mixed border on the perimeter of your lawn is more inviting to birds than an island bed in the middle of an open space. Use a diverse mix of plants but don’t plant one of everything. Instead, depending on the size of your garden, choose a few plants that match your site conditions and plant them in mass. A group of three of the same shrub is

A landscape to attract birds WILL BE ATTRACTIVE TO ‘BIRDERS’ AS WELL

by Deborah Roberts

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more appealing to birds than three different shrubs planted near each other. The same is true for perennials. Following this design principle will also make your garden more attractive since it will flow naturally.

Before you rush out to buy plants, take an inventory of what’s growing in your garden right now. Chances are you already have some bird-friendly plants. If you have several deciduous trees (they lose their leaves in the fall), consider adding a few conifers. Don’t have any shrubs with berries? Buy a few. No fall-blooming perennials? That’s easy to fix. Here are just a few of the many plants that are stellar performers in a bird-scaped garden.

Think of your trees as bird apartment buildings. Some birds prefer the top branch-es, others the outer branches and still oth-ers search out the nooks and cavities trees naturally provide. Native evergreen trees such as American holly (Ilex opaca) and hemlock (Tsuga canadensis) are ideal bird-scaping choices and also provide year round screening and privacy. Large shade trees such as oaks (Quercus), sugar maple (Acer sac-charum) and American hornbeam (Carpinus caroliniana) are multi-purpose bird magnets, providing food, shelter and nesting places

for lots of different birds. Small flowering trees such as fruiting crabapples (Malus) and shadblow (Amelanchier canadensis) will draw birds into your garden throughout the year.

Since shrubs have a smaller stature than trees, they bring birds to eye level. Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum), red osier dogwood (Cornus sericea) and American cranberry (Viburnum trilobum) are all bird

favorites and will add several seasons of interest to your garden.

Perennials add a splash of color and provide a smorgasbord of food for birds. For a colorful display of flowers from spring right through fall, plant a mix of long-blooming perennials. Agastache, aster, bee balm (Monarda), Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia), coreopsis, echinacea, and Joe-Pye weed (Eupatorium) are all bird favorites. Ornamental grasses such as little bluestem (Schizachyrium scoparium), Pennsylvania sedge (Carex pennsylvanica) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) can be used as accent plants or groundcovers.

Don’t Forget To SupplementAn often overlooked feature in bird-

friendly gardens is a source of clean water for bathing and drinking. Birds generally prefer shallow bowls with gently sloping sides. A rough surface is better for bathing than a slippery surface. Birds love running water, so installing a dripper or mister will make your birdbath even more inviting. Don’t forget to change the water every few days and clean the bowl periodically with a scrub brush.

A bird-friendly garden would not be replete without a water source for drinking and bathing.

See Birds page 35

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The annual Secret Gardens Tour ben-efiting the New Canaan Nature Center will take place on Friday, June 4. The popular tour is a fund-raiser for the New Canaan Nature Center and is an opportunity for homeowners, gardeners of all levels and anyone who appreciates the beauty of the outdoors to be inspired by several out-standing garden settings. The self-guided tour is from 10 to 4, allowing attendees to visit the gardens at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Read on for a “sneak peek” at what this year’s gardens have to offer.

A Gardener’s GardenA splendid wisteria-clad pergola with

a flagstone fireplace is the centerpiece for this breath-taking property. Stroll around the organically maintained perennial and vegetable gardens and delight in a hidden

treasure of roses and cutting flowers. Down a wooded path, more than 100 varieties of hosta await. Don’t miss this gardener’s garden!

An English Cottage with Quiet Charm Serenity and harmony await as you

meander beside the babbling brook with its lush and exotic plantings. The peony gar-den designed to showcase an exceptional collection is not to be missed. Magnificent specimen trees, some as old as two hundred years, include copper beech, magnolia, ash, a rare Atlantic cedar evergreen and a dog-wood that resembles a layer cake. An Entertainer’s Delight

Explore the many entertaining delights that this garden has to offer. Climb past the artfully designed vegetable and herb beds that peek out from the hillside to find a secluded chess square with thought-

NEW CANAAN

Secret Gardens Tour by Hilary Wittmann

New Canaan’s Secret Garden Tour includes an English Cottage garden that has an outstanding peony collection.

Jonathan Wallen

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fully placed large stone rocks that invite a respite. Nestled between the house and hill is a terrace set for entertaining, with outside fireplace and seating areas.

Down the Garden PathClose your eyes and open them again,

you are not in New Canaan anymore but in Georgian England, looking down on a beautiful manor house nestled in a bucolic valley setting. Out of the corner of your eye you notice an entry that invites you to come and see, and of course you do. It’s secret garden! As if you were Alice in Wonderland, you have discovered the doorway to a delightful garden path that

leads you downhill with surprises and whimsical elements at every turn.

Blending Old With NewThe simplicity of the front yard belies

the treasures you will discover as you come around this lovely brick and clapboard house. The owner and hands-on gardener has created charming beds of shade and sun-loving shrubs and perennials beneath beautiful mature trees, including zelkova, mulberry, dwarf apricot, apple and Japanese cherry. Tucked into every corner, you will find a mix of well-established specimens partnered with new finds, and often some fun animal statuary. Sit for minute in the

shade of the pergola, listen to the soothing flow of waterfall and sip your lemonade.

Inspired Garden EleganceThis elegant formal garden is truly the

passion of a very passionate gardener. Take a walk into the serenity of the shade garden. Stroll through the formal beds with care-free and hybrid teas roses galore. Stop and enjoy the formal herb/ vegetable garden, bordered on both sides by moon gardens. You feel this gardener’s love of gardening everywhere.

For the second year in a row, Elise Landscapes & Nursery is the lead sponsor of the tour, while Connecticut Cottages &

Gardens is once again the media sponsor. The Bank of New Canaan is also provid-ing generous support. Kitchens by Deane is sponsoring lunch, which will feature a gourmet meal from New Canaan’s Fabulous Feasts, packed in a reusable, eco-friendly tote bag. Attendees may enjoy their lunch at the New Canaan Nature Center or take it with them to eat at their convenience.

Tour tickets are $75 including lunch or $50 for the tour only; they will be $60 on the day of the tour. Tickets may be pur-chased at the New Canaan Nature Center by calling 203-966-9577, x50, or online at newcanaannature.org. ■

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After a hiatus last year, the Ridgefield Kitchen Tour makes a triumphant return this spring on Friday, May 21. As in the past, the tour will feature some of Ridgefield’s most beautiful and unique kitchens cre-ated by kitchen designers and builders from Connecticut and New York.

The focus this year is on bright, open spaces, and there will be plenty to see in each home. From Old World to classic traditional to modern sleek with a retro twist, many styles and tastes will be highlighted.

These spectacular houses include a stately Main Street Victorian, a magnificent new

home built by Reed Whipple of Heritage Homes and a custom-built contemporary with wonderful modern décor and art col-lection.

Each home will also offer tour-goers a delicious sample of food provided by many local caterers, including Bernard’s, Charlotte

Berwind, Collyer Caterers, Cake Box and The Cutting Board.

We will also host a patron breakfast pro-vided by Bernard’s at a custom-built West Mountain estate with spectacular grounds, which is currently listed for sale by bro-ker Laura Freed of William Pitt Sotheby’s

Touring Ridgefield Kitchensby Allison Stockel

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Style and decor, along with tasty treats from local caterers, are highlights of the Ridgefield Kitchen Tour.

International Realty. The breakfast will be held from 8:30 to 10 and the cost is $85.

This year’s tour is sponsored by Albano Appliances, Venture Portraits, Heritage Homes, Total Care, Putnam Kitchens, Coffin/Doyle Architecture and Laura Freed/ William Pitt Southeby’s International Realty.

The proceeds will benefit the Ridgefield Playhouse, the Women’s Center of Danbury and Maimonides Academy of Western Connecticut, among other worthy chari-ties. Tour tickets will be on sale at Squash’s on Main Street in Ridgefield, Maimonides Academy of Western Connecticut or by call-ing Lynn Broder at 203-240-6413. ■

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■ WINDOW I ON I REAL I ESTATE ■

Can’t sell? Thinking of renting? Beware some pitfallsby Jane K. Dove

As local real estate sales continues to languish, more homeowners who cannot achieve a timely sale but need to move on are thinking of renting their homes.

But before putting out the “For Rent” sign, homeowners need to consider three things that could cause them, and their ten-ants, future problems: the presence of lead, asbestos and/or mold.

Gene Burch, company principal and risk inspector with RTK Environmental Group, headquartered in Stamford, describes what homeowners need to do.

Lead“There is definitely an upsurge in rent-

als and we now do a lot of testing for lead,” Gene said. “Our firm was founded in 1995 and provides many services, includ-

ing investigating and identifying potential problems and making referrals for remedia-tion.”

Gene said calls to his firm are often trig-gered when homeowners apply for rental insurance. “Regular homeowners insurance does not cover rentals,” he said. “It’s a sepa-rate policy. Obtaining the policy can often raise red flags because first you need to have a home that is environmentally safe.”

Lead paint is one of the biggest problems in pre-1978 homes. Lead paint was banned in 1978 for residential use, but a lot of homes in our area pre-date that year and contain lead-based paint.

“If we are called to a job and find the presence of lead, it has to be remedi-ated before the home can be rented,” he said. “Lead is tightly regulated, including

rules set forth by the federal Environment Protection Agency (EPA). There are a lot of stipulations out there and homeowners that rent can get into trouble if they do not comply.”

Gene’s feeling is that a relatively low per-centage of homeowners who rent are aware of federal and state regulations, and follow through with testing – until they apply for rental insurance. “This is the trigger that wakes people up,” he said.

Renting out a property that contains lead – in paint or other materials – can be dangerous and result in a lawsuit if a renter falls ill from its presence. “My advice to homeowners is to apply for rental insur-ance, pay attention to its stipulations and then do whatever you must to be in full legal compliance.”

AsbestosAsbestos is another substance that can

cause serious problems. “Asbestos can be found in more than 20 different products used in a home,” Gene said. “It is com-monly found in older roofing materials and flooring and as an insulator for plumbing and HVAC systems.”

Asbestos becomes an issue when it is disturbed, for example during a repair or renovation, he said. Once that happens and it is detected, asbestos has to disposed of by a licensed remediation firm. Every bit of it has to be accounted for and shipped away in special sealed containers.

“Anyone who suspects the presence of loose asbestos in their home should have it tested immediately to be safe,” Gene says. “There is a lot of it out there and it is a

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health hazard when disturbed. It is slow to show its effects, sometimes taking as long as 20 years after exposure.”

MoldAs with lead and asbestos, RTK envi-

ronmental is often called in to test for the presence of mold. “This is another pitfall for homeowners,” Gene says. “If tenants complain about a musty odor or respiratory problems that develop after they move in, mold could be the problem. Some people are highly susceptible to mold.”

Gene says testing for mold involves investigating the entire property, starting with the attic and work-ing down to the basement. “We look for drainage issues like faulty downspouts and anything that can trap moisture around the founda-tion, like raised flower beds.”

Air samples, both inside and outside, as well as lift-

tape samples, are used in detection. “There is

some mold in every house,” he said. “It’s common and not a big problem unless it rises to unhealthy levels.”

If mold is detected, RTK Environmental makes a full report on the sources of mold-

causing moisture and recommends reme-diation to homeowners.

“There are no laws or licensing pertaining to mold,” he said. “But it’s an excellent idea for homeowners who are renting to check for its presence and, if needed, correct the problem in advance of tenants moving in.”

Gene’s advice to would-be landlords is to check all pertinent regulations before they rent and take corrective action. “This will give you peace of mind that your property is safe to rent and could help you avoid potential legal troubles down the road.” ■

FORRENT

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What does the Microsoft prin-ciple DIRFT, which stands for “Do it right the first time,” have to do with building a top-quality home?

Plenty, if the builder is Devin Meenan, a former Microsoft engi-neer turned home builder.

Devin owns Classic Connecticut Homes, based in Ridgefield, and says that DIRFT and other guiding principles he learned during his 15-year career at Microsoft have stood him in good stead as a builder of fine

homes. “I have found a strong correlation between Microsoft principles and disciplines and the act of home-building,” he says. “I find I apply the lessons I learned at Microsoft every day while designing and building, or remodeling, a home.”

The DIRFT FactorDevin says DIRFT is one of

his guiding home-building prin-ciples. “Starting with DIRFT enables me to distill our goals so that everyone is in lockstep, and

BUILDER APPLIES MICROSOFT PRINCIPLES

To produce quality homes

by Jane K. Dove

The beauty and elegance of fine craftsmanship is emblematic of Classic Connecticut Homes.

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it is simple to remember. You walk past someone on the job and just say, ‘DIRFT.’ They get it — take the time to do it right the first time.”

Devin says DIRFT is especially impor-tant because “the sooner you find and fix a defect, the easier and cheaper it is in the long run. For example, if you see a defect in framing, it’s cheaper and bet-ter to fix it in the early stages rather than having to rip out Sheetrock later on in the process.”

Devin believes that defect management coalesces around DIRFT. “We talk about it frequently on jobs, and everyone who works with me knows what it is. We all work off a good mutual understanding. I talk to my lead people and they let their people know about DIRFT. It’s a cultural perspective that I call ‘training the trainer’ and setting up accountabilities.”

Big RocksDIRFT is closely related to Microsoft’s

Big Rocks principle. “At Microsoft, Big Rocks means focusing on your biggest opportunities, or issues, first,” Devin says. “The idea comes from the answer to the question, “How do you fill a bucket with a

bunch of rocks? The answer — insert the largest ones first.”

In home building, this translates into doing the hard things before the easier ones. “I track the progress of my projects in three-week ‘bites,’” Devin says. “It’s like eating an elephant, one bite at a time. I

come up with a project plan and stick to it, week by week, emphasizing tactical ‘to-dos.’”

By using this approach, Devin says, tasks like completing bathrooms and kitchens come before other parts of the home-building process. “These two things

are Big Rocks and extremely important to the outcome of the project,” he says.

Assuring that items arrive as sched-uled ties into Big Rocks. “Items have to be delivered on time to keep the project moving ahead, according to plan,” he said. “When it comes time to put in the doors and windows, you need them on the site.”

Defect Management“Management of defects, whether in

software or in the home-building process, always presents a challenge,” Devin says. “In a home, something can be perfectly built, but if it doesn’t meet the homeown-er’s requirements, it may be considered defective. This comes up a lot in the home-building business.”

Devin cites an example. “I was recently on the phone with my mason. He had just finished some beautiful stone veneer, but there was a misunderstanding with the owner on the details of the stone work. As a result, we decided to take it down. It was perfectly executed but not done according

See Quality homes page 31

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Saturday, March 13, 3:30 p.m.I drive back from shopping trip with

friend. Skies darken and wind picks up. At 5:15, winds begin to howl, rain starts and we lose power. “Twilight” gets stuck in DVD player when power goes out, right when Edward and Bella are about to kiss. Sump pump stops working. Sixty-foot pine tree on front lawn comes crash-ing down across our driveway. Neighbor Pauline behind us has power, I observe enviously. My husband, daughter, dog and I watch a movie (not Twilight) in battery-powered portable DVD player by flashlight and fireplace. It is an adventure, right?

Sunday, March 14, 8 a.m.

Still no power. Take showers with last of hot water. Assess exterior damage, lament loss of pine tree. Not sure how to dispose of tree. Neighbor Dan down the street comes by to tell us they have 12 inches of water in their basement. I check our basement with flashlight, and thankfully, no water. Husband leaves on week-long business trip, and I take daughter to friends in Trumbull for the day. We return late afternoon, and still no power. House is frigid, and I bring daughter to friend’s house to sleep over. I watch The Hangover on portable DVD player under five layers of blankets in pitch black, freezing cold bedroom with dog (I think he really liked the movie).

Monday, March 15, 6 a.m.

Wake up, and the house is like ice. Still not sure what to do with tree. I throw out spoiled food in kitchen refrigerator and decide to stay at parents’ house that night. Check basement from stairway, and still no water (boy, are we lucky!). Daughter, dog and I leave for parents’ around 4 p.m.

Tuesday, March 16, 10:15 a.m.Return home, and ice I threw in kitchen

sink from the kitchen freezer yesterday is still frozen. Am tired of power outage “adventure.” With flashlight, venture into finished basement (which flooded in April 2007 storm) to empty second refrigerator (threw out probably $500 worth of food, total). Flashlight shines on floor near stairs, and I see what I am praying is only a piece

of Saran Wrap and not water. No, it is in fact two inches of water (guess we’re not so lucky after all). Call husband in L.A., get put through to voice-mail. Husband calls back; I cry, swear and hang up on him. Husband calls back, and we calmly discuss situation. Neighbor Dan’s wife, Janis, and good friend Michelle plus nephew Thomas come to help move furniture and toys from basement to garage (we are lucky to know such wonderful people). Use wet vac (hooked up to neighbor Pauline’s outside outlet with two long extension cords) to get water out of basement. Hire contractor to help dry out basement more. Husband still away on business trip ... desperate, hire workmen (complete strangers) off street

Diary of a mad housewifeWHEN IT RAINS, IT POURS

by G. Lisa Sullivan

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(am I crazy?) to cut and remove tree and giant stump. Return to parents for night.

Wednesday, March 17, 11 a.m.Return home, and MIRACLE! Power is

back on! Jump up and down with joy. Get “Twilight” out of DVD player. Blast heat, turn on all lights and every TV, just because we can.

Saturday, March 20, 10:30 a.m.Husband home. Insurance claims adjust-

er comes to assess damage. Gives us check to pay for new basement flooring and some paneled walls. Hire neighbor Dan’s builder to do floor and walls and paint basement. Work to start in two weeks. Yippee!

Monday, March 29, 9 a.m.Another torrential rain storm. Husband

off on another business trip. Tons of rain. Please, no more water in basement!

Tuesday, March 30, 2:15 p.m.Peek warily in basement for water and

find two inches. Don’t cry ... just cancel builder and start calling basement water-proofing companies from phone book. Neighbor Dan also looks into basement waterproofing, and we end up using same company. Forget new kitchen appliances or

See Diary page 33

We’re So Much More Than Just Swimming Pools

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Do you want a gable or a hip roof for the garage? A larger fireplace? A new sunroom? Built-in cabinetry? Want your hot tub to get the most year-round sun? Take a look.

You’re in front of your computer and John Gore, your builder, is in his studio in front of his computer, giving you a tour of your new home, room by room. You’re both on the phone, so if you want to see how a larger dining room would look, you tell him and there it is!

John Gore of New England Renovation has been designing and building homes in Fairfield County for over 20 years. “But,” he says, “the way I’m working with clients now is a complete revolution in home-building.”

The three-dimensional tech-nique is called Computer Aided Design (CAD). John explains,

Now showing in 3D!YOUR HOME – RENOVATED OR BRAND NEW

by Lois Alcosser

Above: Computer-aided design (CAD) puts you in the driver’s seat, as you can discuss changes via phone that the builder can execute as you watch. Left: From start to finish, CAD speeds up the building project, makes the process enjoyable and ensures a happy ending. See 3D page 24

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H o m e o f t h e M o n t hM a y 2 0 1 0

LOCATION: A country setting in New Canaan is a sublime spot for all the amenities this amazing home offers.PROPERTY: More than six acres include a trout pond, a pool house with bath and changing rooms and a cabana with gourmet kitchen and dining area. HOUSE: Designed for comfort, the house has such dramatic features as interior stone walls, rustic wood beams and five fireplaces. There are 16 rooms with seven bedrooms, six baths and two half-baths. Main rooms include a living room, dining room, family room, library, sunroom and gourmet kitchen.GARAGE: Four-car attached.OUTBUILDINGS: A three-level Sports Barn includes a half-size basketball court, movie theater, stage, dance studio, dining area with kitchen, game room, three bedrooms and three baths. PRICE: $12,500,000.REALTY: Barbara Cleary’s Realty Guild.Agent: Barbara Cleary, 203-966-7772.Photography: Bryan Haeffele.

Gathering PlaceThe

Photo courtesy of Barbara Cleary’s Realty Guild


I recently purchased my first organic, fresh-from-the-garden Millstone Farm lettuce in a leaf-green, biodegradable plastic bag, which can be rinsed and re-used, fastened with a Millstone clothespin. It was, as I’d been told it would be, crunchy, pure-fresh tasting and delicious. It was expensive. It was worth it, but then I realized I could, with their instructions, grow my own!

The packets of seeds on the supermarket rack look tempting ... but also intimidating. Growing vegetables isn’t a piece of cake. I tried it years ago and the results didn’t look like the pictures on the seed packets. The truth is, serving home-grown spinach, peas or carrots requires patience and dedication, but most of all — knowledge.

Annie Farrell, along with owner Betsy Fink, helped build and has tended the veg-etable gardens at Millstone Farm in Wilton

for many years, can start you off by answer-ing some basic questions.

Q: Do I need to have special soil or prepare the soil in a special way to have an organic back-yard vegetable garden?

A: You need good, loamy topsoil. Snows Farm in Easton sells topsoil and finished compost. If you want certified organic soil, McEnroe Organic in Amenia, N.Y., sells certi-fied soil and compost.

Q: I’ve heard that raised beds are a good way to grow vegetables because the roots grow straight down and you can plant things closer together, but I’m not sure how to create a raised bed or what size it should be.

A: The easiest size to work with is a 3-foot-wide x 12-foot-long x 8-inch deep bed — easy to build, easy to reach from either side. The boards sit sideways on the ground and get strapped together or fastened with

You can do it!A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO ORGANIC GARDENING

by Lois Alcosser

Raised beds with good, loamy topsoil enclosed in a sturdy fence are the beginnings of a good garden.

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wood at the corners. You can buy eight-inch by 1-inch by 12-foot boards direct from the Sawmill in Wilton.

Q: For a beginner, what are the easiest veg-etables to grow?

A: Tomatoes (we hope, this year) lettuces, summer squash, cucumbers, broccoli. If you build raised beds, growing carrots will be much easier, too.

Q: Since you don’t use any chemicals or pes-ticides, what do you feed the plants?

A: At Millstone Farm, we use compost/manure tea that we make from our compost and llama manure. You can buy fish emulsion for nitrogen or Earth Juice, which has more nutrients. (earthjuice.com). Johnny’s Selected Seeds carries virtually everything you need (Johnnyseeds.com).

Q: If I start from seed, would I need a green-house or some protected place in my house?

A: Before I had a greenhouse, I put plants on shelves indoors with four-foot fluorescent lights hung above them. They need direct light.

Q: About watering, do you water plants every day?

A: I water as needed and in hot weather more often. They should never be bone dry or weather and temperature dependent. Each

type of plant has different needs (most of that information is now online), but, as a rule, most plants in a vegetable garden need to be kept watered regularly, especially dur-ing germination. More mature plants with deep roots can reach deeper in the ground for moisture.

Q: How do you prevent mold or fungus, and I suppose the garden should have a high fence to keep animals out. Do you recommend any spe-cial type of fencing?

A: Mold and fungus are common in wet weather and when plants are crowded. The better the air circulation, the better they grow. In this area, an eight-foot fence is recom-mended. You can buy plastic deer fencing and 10-foot poles.

Q: How much sun do vegetables need to grow? Are there vegetables that will grow in shady areas?

A: The more direct sun, the better. Some plants don’t mind partial shade. We found out that broccoli and greens do fine in semi-shade in summer. Kales are OK in half shade. Lettuce will need to be partially shaded in hot weather to prevent bolting. We use shade cloth in summer for all lettuces, arugula, etc.

For more information, call Annie Farrell at 203-834-2605. ■

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Spending the end of March some 300 miles south of our Lewisboro home ensured the spring-like weather I’d been longing for. Fulfilling the promise of the season, thousands of Japanese cherry trees at our nation’s Capital reached their peak. While admiring these trees, I was reminded of the importance of planting now for others’ enjoyment in the future. Nearly a century has passed since Japan gave the United States these trees as a gift of friendship, and they are appreciated anew each spring by hundreds of thousands of visitors.

Establishing the next generation of trees is something many homeowners think about this time of year. Now that the tem-perature has warmed up, the ground is soft enough to make planting less taxing on the gardener, as well as the plants. Over

the last 13 years, we’ve lost nearly as many trees on our shy three-acre parcel.

One tree actually took out our mini-van, but that’s another story. Even so, unless a tree poses a safety issue (or threat-ens a vehicle), we tend to avoid removing it. Until the trees are ready to come down on their own, we enjoy the woodpeckers and owls that take up residence in their dying limbs and trunks along the wooded edges of our yard.

The main culprit for us, however, is our high water table. Compounded by the effects of spring thaw, winds and rains, the ever-saturated earth makes it very tough for aged or weakened trees to hold their ground. Our response to this challenge has been to plant replacement trees, par-ticularly “thirsty” types like willows. We

Plant it forwardby Lisa Wickersham

■ INTO I THE I GARDEN ■

A Dappled Willow shrub, whose variegated leaves are colorful, has the added value of being deer resistant.


have several varieties – pussy, dappled and weeping. Each is uniquely beautiful. Softwoods, like pines, grow very fast, but are also vulnerable to extreme weather, like ice, snow and high winds. The 50-year-old white pines edging our pond are always at risk to these conditions, so we started back-up trees years ago. Even if we never get to see them grace our property as mature trees, we know that another family will someday enjoy them.

My husband, Ed, and I also make it a point to plant our favorite specimen trees to mark significant events in our lives. As

an example, our weeping cherry tree was given to me by my first-born daughter on Mother’s Day, 13 years ago. And each year I remark how much both the tree and she have changed.

Now, if you’re super patient, annual membership in the Arbor Day Foundation (arborday.org) gets you a 10-pack of mixed trees. These bare-root babies need nurs-ery care, but in a year or two can be transplanted to their permanent locations. Penning is important to keep deer at bay. After these young trees are established, you’ll see marked growth each year. That’s

the gratification that “planting for the future” offers.

Most homeowners already know that mature trees add value to their property. In addition to providing visual interest, they keep your home cooler in the summer, attract wildlife and give you a handy place to hang a hammock.

Aside from trees, mass plantings of perennials and biennials create an estab-lished garden that provides maximum impact while keeping maintenance – and weeds – down. You can add to your inven-tory by dividing plants. What began as a

single plant last year may be a candidate for division this year. Consider Astilbe (which the deer would rather not). A clump 12 inches across can be divided into five or six smaller plants, filling a 30-inch area.

Like Astilbe, many plants have root masses that can easily be pulled apart into individual plants. Some examples include alliums, Echinacea, sedum, perennial gera-niums and Shasta daisies. When dividing grasses and plants with woody roots, you

See Into the Garden page 33

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call 203-438-6544MAY 2010 VOL XIV, ISSUE 4

Special Section to:

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HOMECover: The Lounsbury House in Ridgefield. Bryan Haeffele photo.


“It means that I can create a three-dimen-sional image of a proposed project that allows the viewer to see a life-like model, from all angles. I walk the client through the house, via the computer, with all the details visible ... and changeable. Built-ins, furni-ture placement, molding, floor patterns, see-through windows, all done virtually through animation.”

The image is so real that the homeowner-to-be can see exactly what the home or addition will look like, view variations and make changes while sitting comfortably at home. The ease and speed of reaching a final design results in substantial savings.

John’s current project is in Wilton and was designed using CAD. Seeing the house on the screen and then touring it in person, as it’s being built, is especially exciting, quite different from working with two-dimen-sional drawings. Picture this: Husband is in Los Angeles on business, wife is in her office in New York. John Gore is in his office and there’s an ongoing three-way conversation and virtual tour of their new home, study-ing every view, every detail. How would it

look if the family room extends from the kitchen? If the master suite is on the other side? John can demonstrate the changes immediately. He also provides his building expertise so that the changes make sense, but, he says, “[they’re] my suggestions, their decisions.”

Often, new homeowners are surprised, unpleasantly, when they see the final result because the blueprints they’d OK’d were more difficult to comprehend. Two-dimen-sional drawings or elevations can’t be as realistic as three-dimensional animation. One client wanted to see how the living room furniture was going to look and, on viewing the 3-D design, realized that the first thing you’d see was the back of the sofa. So, changes were made.

Since 1986, New England Renovation has designed and constructed homes and additions in various styles: traditional, shin-gle-style and reproductions of mid-1800s through 1940s homes. John is knowledge-able about all aspects of potential energy savings and has been building environ-mentally friendly homes long before “green

3D continued from page 17

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Since two-dimensional drawings can be difficult to navigate, the end result may not be what was expected.

building” became a buzz word. A recently completed home received a Five Star energy rating, which is the highest one for energy efficiency.

John has also added the talents of Tim Overstreet to his staff. Tim has a master’s degree in architecture and is LEED certified (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), a designation he received from the United States Green Building Council.

Computer-aided design may have an impersonal, high-tech sound to it, but it’s actually the opposite. Homeowner and

builder work as a creative team, and the process allows homeowners to fulfill every desire and requirement for their specific lifestyle. The in-house staff of profession-al carpenters handles everything from the framing to custom mill work, cabinetry and built-ins. Having the design and construc-tion team in-house streamlines the process, saving time and money.

To see what it’s like to design an addition or renovation from your computer, call John Gore at 203-438-3935; e-mail, [email protected]; Web, NewEnglandRenovation.com. ■

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A time-tested natural product — Cedar Oil — is emerging anew as a powerful tool to repel a wide assortment of non-beneficial insects from pets, homes, offices and schools. Cedar Oil kills ticks, fleas, mosquitoes, no-see-ums, chiggers, mites, earwigs, bedbugs, ants, termites and more.

“It’s a pretty amazing product,” said Michael Fortuna, head of Fortuna Builders

LLC of Woodbury. He is the Connecticut distributor for the products, which are manu-factured in Texas.

Pesticides are falling out of favor, Michael said, because people are becoming aware of the dangers they cause to our health, animals and environment. Many insects have become immune to them and Cedar Oil is a 100% natural way to effectively kill these pests.

How It WorksCedar Oil is a natural insect repellent.

When delivered in small amounts, the aroma will overwhelm most non-beneficial insects and the lingering aroma of the cedar is a pheromone-interruption agent that impairs the mental capacity of these insects but has no impact on beneficial species like ladybugs, bees, lizards, earthworms, butterflies and toads.

The oil kills insects and also erodes and dehydrates the insect egg and larvae. This interrupts the egg-laying cycle, eliminating the next generation of pests. Its effectiveness in pest control, therefore, is measured by decreased populations.

According to the National Coalition Against the Misuse of Pesticides, 500 species of insects are now resistant to one or more insecticides. Unfortunately, families, pets and their home environments are not immune to the harmful effects. In April 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency issued an advisory following an increase in health prob-

lems of pets treated with some flea- and tick-control products.

New Life For Old Remedy Cedar Oil was popular long ago, as far

back as the Egyptians, who used it for mum-mification, Michael said. Early American set-tlers spread cedar shavings on their floors and lined closets and drawers with cedar wood to repel insects. Most recently, Cedar Oil is being used with great success to control hordes of sand fleas that attack our soldiers in Iraq.

Homeowners like Cedar Oil because it has many uses, Michael said. “It can be sprayed on family pets to keep them free of ticks and fleas, on you and your children while work-ing or playing outside in the yard or walking in the woods, on your lawn to keep it insect-free, and even injected in your home’s HVAC system to provide interior pest control.”

In the yard, homeowners can either spray it with a garden-hose sprayer or use a deliv-

What’s old is new: Cedar Oil for chemical-free insect control by Jane K. Dove

See Cedar Oil page 32

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Bon jour! Recently, Melissa and I were lucky enough to connect our-selves to a tour group bound for Paris, France! As a public service to our readers, and with possible positive tax implications, I am using this column to dispel some myths and suggest some truths about Paris and Parisian culture.

Myth #1: French Food is rich and delicious.

We love shopping, but since the dollar has no value at the moment, we chose to blow our budget on food. After all, we do, as our groaning bathroom scale will testi-fy, like to eat, so where better to disregard

our diets than in the countless bistros and restaurants of Paris?

An average block on a Paris street, Rue du Chapeau Hamborg for exam-ple, goes something like this: on the corner, a sidewalk café, next a patisserie followed by a pied-à-terre and then an eyeglasses store. The

next shop is usually an ethnic restaurant: Japanese, Senegalese, Thai, Moroccan, followed by a shop specializing in a product

that is unclear and, unless you know the language, and we don’t, mysterious. Finally,

back at the corner, anoth-er sidewalk café. Now

and then, there is something called a

■ HOME I MOANER ■

Espirit d’accordby Ben Guerrero

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“Tabac,” which is a place you go, not only to buy horrible French cigarettes, but vir-tually everything else necessary to survive in Paris: subway tickets, phone cards, tiny little cups of espresso, etc.

This layout means that you have a minimum of three dining opportunities on each block of the city. In order to com-plicate things, each dining establishment displays the bill of fare on a chalkboard propped up on the sidewalk. On the one hand, this makes it easy to scope out the individual restaurants, but on the other, not understanding the language, we often had to make our selections based on pen-manship.

The results were often surprisingly dis-appointing. We had about 12 meals in res-taurants and probably only three of them were even vaguely mind-altering. Yes, the sauces were rich, the vegetables properly cooked, but the results often left us under-whelmed and, on one occasion, exiled to the hotel room for a full day, suffering from “Napoleon’s Revenge.”

Myth # 2: All Parisian women are beau-tiful.

This is true. So are the men and the pets. The denizens of Paris all dress fabu-

lously, never a hair out of place. We were there in still chilly March, and every living organism within the city limits, including houseplants, wore a scarf. Since I did not bring a scarf of my own, I tried to find a shop where a Parisian might purchase one. When in Rome, right? I could not, for any price, find a decent scarf. There were plenty of scarves for sale on the street, but most of them were manufactured, off shore, for the tourist trade. I never once saw a Parisian wearing a scarf that said “J’aime Paris.” Not once. Also: There are no fat people in Paris. I tried to find one, but the only one I could find was in the mirror.

Myth #3: The French make bad cars.Here’s the thing. The French took a bad

political hit a few years back. It got so we started renaming things like French Toast, “Freedom Toast.” (The French call it toast.) I think we might learn a lot from the French when it comes to national pride. The French try not to buy non-French goods. This is nowhere more prevalent than on the streets of Paris. Peugeot. Renault. Citroën. These are brands that prevail on

See Home Moaner page 30

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French bumpers. While they have Toyotas, Hondas, Nissans – even Fords – the French buy French and they also buy small. Gas is really expensive. There seemed to be end-less models of tiny little cars that have no trouble dodging around confused tourists in crosswalks. Easily 85 percent of the cars in Paris are French-made. Even the subways, which are efficient, safe and run on rubber wheels, are of French design. Are they badly engineered? I can’t say, but

maybe we could learn something. I’m just saying.

Final Myth: The Parisians are rude.I was ready for this, but a seasoned

tourist told me to remember to say hello to everyone I meet. In the shop: Bon Jour! In the street: Bon Jour! Bump into someone: Pardon! Someone does something for you: Merci!

Storekeepers love money. Anyone’s money, but when the little bell rings over

the door, the first thing they say is, “Bon Jour.” Not “May I help you?” If “How much is this?” is the first thing out of your mouth, you have broken a cultural expectation. It is so easy to be polite. I believe Parisians have gotten this rude reputation based on their reaction to rude tourists. More than once we were helped by passing strangers who spoke far better English than our paltry French. As long as we said, “Bon jour,” up front, and “Merci,” on the way out, all of the Parisians we met were helpful, friendly, scarf-wearing people.

Non, c’est les touristes with their back-ward baseball caps and T-shirts that read “I’m With Stupid.” With their flip-flops flapping, their cameras flashing and their voices raised on the principle that louder is easier to understand, it is they who are rude. And it’s embarrassing. There, I said it.

Like our trip to Paris, I have run out of time. Merci.

Combien d’argent? WOW! Now blogging at homemoanerxr.blogspot.com. ■

Home Moaner continued from page 29

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to what the homeowner wanted. Therefore it was defective.”

Understanding the user’s requirements can go a long way in defect management. “This can be accomplished through the use of mock-ups ... which allow you to arrive at what the client actually does want,” Devin says. “In both the software and home-building industries, the expres-sion ‘I’ll know it when I see it’ holds very true.”

Quality Takes TimeDevin says establishing cultural and

business goals with his workers hinges on their internalizing the way he wants his company to function. “At Connecticut Classic Homes, we are lucky to have people that have worked for us for over a decade,” Devin says. “They are our lead people and we expect them to share our values. We have occasional problems with subcontractors used to rushing through

their work with the old ‘time is money’ concept. If we cannot convince them that this doesn’t hold true in our company, we simply stop using them.”

Devin says one of his larger homes takes 12 to 18 months to complete, starting with architectural plans. “I work on homes of all sizes and have built or renovated homes ranging in size from 2,400 to 12,000 square feet,” he says. “We have satisfied customers because we use concepts and techniques gleaned from smart people with excellent experi-ence.”

Classic Connecticut Homes won a 2009 HOBI (Home Builders Industry Association of Connecticut) award for a residence in Ridgefield. The category was Outstanding Spec Home, $4 to $5 Million Range.

Devin says everyone at Classic Connecticut Homes has a firm grasp on their mission. “We thoughtfully and sys-tematically break down big projects into manageable, quality-driven bites,” he says. “The approach adds value to our company and value to the homes we produce.”

To contact Classic Connecticut Homes, call 203-438-1736. ■

Quality homes continued from page 13

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ery system that hooks into an existing irri-gation system. The oil is then distributed automatically.

Cedar Oil is also available to homeowners as Petriwood, a product that completely seals and stabilizes cedar shingles to keep out an array of insects.

Commercial ApplicationsCedar Oil is growing in popularity for

use in hotels, schools and offices. “Bedbugs are a problem in hotels, including upscale

ones,” Michael said. “Workers can spray the room with Cedar Oil, which does not stain, and literally watch the bugs drop. They can then be vacuumed up and dis-carded.”

The Chicago Transit Authority, which has wood-frame elevated train lines, has also started to use Cedar Oil. Similar to the home product, it petrifies wood and protects the train structures.

Personal InvolvementMichael first got involved with Cedar Oil

products because his own pets were loaded with fleas and ticks. “We have a pond, and the insects were driving us crazy,” he said. “My wife did some research online and ordered the Cedar Oil. We were amazed at how well it worked, and I decided to make the line of products available through my building busi-ness.”

Cedar Oil is available in amounts ranging from small, personal-size sprayers up to 55-gallon drums for professional pest control. “In between there are Windex-sized bottles and whole-house kits,” he said.

More and more pest control companies are taking advantage of safe and effective Cedar Oil as their clients become wary of pesticides. “I am absolutely sold on this product because it works,” Michael said. “At my house, we went from 20 ticks a day to none. We have no ants and no mice. I also like it because its part of the green-building movement, which we decided to join. This fits right in with our new philosophy, and I could not be more pleased with the products.”

Cedar Oil products are available to ship anywhere through Fortuna Builders LLC. Call 203-263-0773 or visit the Web site, fortunabuild-ers.com. ■

Cedar Oil continued from page 26

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8 Giles Hill Rd.

Redding, CT 06896

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may need to cut, chop or saw your way through the division process. While you can always purchase flats of the same plant, dividing costs nothing and is often good for your plants.

For example, bulbs require division every few years to ensure prolific flow-ering. Dividing perennials can begin in April, once the plants have started up and become recognizable, and can continue through May. What’s more, they will continue to deliver year after year. Take care to avoid dividing on hot, sunny days and be sure to mulch and water the new plants you’ve managed to produce right in your own backyard.

Of course, avid gardeners are always on the look-out for new and exciting additions to their gardens. Local nurseries are all decked out by mid-May and often have newer plant varieties to introduce, including natives. When introducing new players into the mix, it is important to take note (literally) of how they fare in your garden setting. I’ve often purchased

the same “doomed to fail” plants because of poor record keeping. Oh well, if noth-ing else, I’m consistent!

There are steps you can take now to keep your garden and new plantings manageable. It’s much easier – and more natural looking – to stake or support plants before they need it rather than try to corral them into a support once they’ve begun to flop. May is a good time to get supports in place. I set metal hoops from old whiskey barrels around my catmint plants. The hoops keep them perky and prevent the plant centers from hollowing out by mid-summer. Taller plants, or those with weighty flowers, can be tethered to bamboo stakes. You can also opt to pinch or cut back plants, like chrysanthemum, before the buds appear in early July. Let’s not forget climbers, like clematis. For all vines, chicken wire works well and virtually disappears from view as the plants grow.

To ensure that deer steer clear of your tender spring buds, use deer repellent

very early on. This will prevent deer from establishing a routine that includes a daily stop in your yard. Use over-the-counter spray or powder solutions every couple of weeks or after a heavy rain. (The effects of repellent last a little longer if applied to the underside of leaves.)

There are several home-made brews found on the Internet that also work quite well. Ed’s favorite recipe lasts us the entire season and becomes more potent with age (that’s the recipe, not Ed). Better yet, it is made of items you likely have at home already: eggs, garlic, dish soap and water. Blend ingredients to liquefy and store in a sealed milk jug. Set the jug in the sun for a few days to “develop the aroma.” Transfer repellent to a spray bottle and knock yourself out (truly, this stuff is wicked).

Aside from the fun of planting and maintaining, take time to simply enjoy your garden.

Lisa Wickersham lives in South Salem, N.Y., with her husband and two daughters and is a long-time member of the Lewisboro Garden Club. She can be contacted at [email protected]. ■

Into the Garden continued from page 23

new carpeting for upstairs. All money going to incredibly expensive home-improvement project that no one will ever see. Husband returns from business trip. Sees estimate for work. A little cry-ing (husband, not me).

Monday, April 5, 9 a.m.Basement waterproofing company

starts work. Jackhammering for two days straight. Workers coming in and out between our house and neighbor Dan’s, but work crew seems to get things done fairly quickly. It’s a messy project. Give workers cookies, sodas and Fudgsicles to keep them energized.

Saturday, April 10, 11:50 a.m.Basement waterproofing almost done.

Bank account almost empty. At least we are healthy and safe.

Wednesday, April 21, 4:39 a.m.Dream we have big rain storm, go

down to basement and find it flooded. Thankfully, just a dream. No big storms yet, but hopeful that basement water-proofing will work. Next time, I’m going on business trips, not husband. ■

Diary continued from page 15

203-894-1480340 Peaceable Street, Ridgefield, CT

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On Friday and Saturday, May 7 and 8, Ridgefield garden clubs will hold their annual plant sale at the greenhouse in Ballard Park on Main Street in Ridgefield.

Featured will be choice annuals and perennials suitable to this area, and scented plants will be highlighted.

There will be heirloom tomatoes and other veg-etables grown in the greenhouse, herbs, hanging

baskets and “Tried and True” plants from mem-bers’ gardens. A garden Gift Shop and Boutique will include a Children’s Station where they can create their own Mother’s Day baskets.

Proceeds will be used by the garden clubs for beautification and conservation projects through-out the community. Also, clubs fund scholarships for graduating Ridgefield High School seniors planning careers in horticulture and conservation.

Contributions will also be made to The Discovery Center, Norwalk River Watershed Assoc., Woodcock Nature Center, Ridgefield Open Spaces, Conn. Agriculture Experiment Station, Ridgefield Conservation Commission and the Conn. Nature Conservancy.

For more information, call Pam Lowell, 203-438-3221. ■

PLANTS FOR SALE

Ian Murren

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Bird feeders are also an important part of a bird-scaped garden, providing supple-mental food year round, not just in the winter. To attract a wide array of birds, offer different styles of feeders and a vari-ety of food sources, like seeds, nuts, suet and nectar. Position birdbaths and bird feeders near a ready source of shelter, just in case the birds need to make a quick getaway.

Don’t forget to include a bench or comfy chair so you can relax and enjoy all the sights and sounds of your bird-scaped garden. When the neighbors drop by and notice the leaf litter in the corner and a few spent flowers on your perennials, they might comment that your garden has gone to the birds. And you can happily sit back and say, “Yes, yes it has.”

Deborah Roberts, a professional landscape designer, is the owner of Roberts & Robert Landscape and Garden Design in Stamford. Contacts: 203-979-3672, [email protected] (Web), gardenofpossibilities.com (blog). ■

Birds continued from page 5

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