landscape & garden

Adv

ertis

ing

Sup

ple

men

t to

the

Sun

Jour

nal,

Satu

rday

, Ap

ril 9

, 20

11

Inside:Yard care tools Spring garden chores Gardening time savers Paving stones vs. concrete Healthy soil solutions Natural fencing options Childproof your garden

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 20112 LANDSCAPE & GARDEN

20 BINSof Mulch, Decorative Stone,

Aggregate, Compost & Loam

Phone: 207 783-0433965 Minot Avenue, Auburn ME 04210 • Fax: 207 783-0447

Monday-Friday: 7am-6pm • Saturday: 8am-5pm • Sunday: 8am-2pm

www.petroshardware.com

is a world leader in productinovation and Petro's received the

2010 "Dealer of Development"Top award for the Northeast United States

Contractors know that when buying Techo-Bloc products from Petro's, they get the BEST Service,

Product and Support available!

WALLS

OverWeDeliver!

Elena & AtlantisSandlewood

Mini-Creta 3" & 6"BelgikSandlewood Sandlewood

Monticello Chocolate Brown, Azzuro, Olive

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011 LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 3

www.sunnysidegardens.com

Choice perennials for the discerning gardener

500 N Parish Rd in Turner ~ 212.9256 ~ [email protected]

Edith Ellis, proprietor, Maine Certified Nursery Professional www.kubota.com©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2011

$0Down&O%A.P.R. Financing for 5Years*

BX2660

*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for terms up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubotaequipment from available inventory at participating dealers through 6/30/2011. Example: A60-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $16.67per $1,000 borrowed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentationpreparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordancewith state laws. Only Kubota and select Kubota performance-matched Land Pride equipment iseligible. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available forRental, National Accounts or Governmental customers. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may notbe available with customer instant rebate (C.I.R.) offers. Financing is available through KubotaCredit Corporation, U.S.A., 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval.Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 6/30/2011. See us for details on these and other low-rateoptions or go to www.kubota.com for more information.

Time�ieswhenyouworkwith top-quality equipment likeKubotaBXSeries sub-compact tractors.And rightnow, time isonyour sidewith long-term, low-rate�nancing throughJune30, 2011.

All New KubotaBX Series Models

$010% Down

$0

60 Months72 Months72 Months

0.00%4.49%4.99%

$16.67$15.87$16.10

Eligible Models Down Payment Maximum Term A.P.R. Monthly Payments per $1,000 Borrowed

*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for terms up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubotaequipment from available inventory at participating dealers through 6/30/2011. Example: A60-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $16.67per $1,000 borrowed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentationpreparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordancewith state laws. Only Kubota and select Kubota performance -matched Land Pride equipment iseligible. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available forRental, National Accounts or Governmental customers. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may notbe available with customer instant rebate (C.I.R.) offers. Financing is available through KubotaCredit Corporation, U.S.A., 3401DelAmo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval.Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 6/30/2011. See us for details on these and other low-rateoptions or go to www.kubota.com for more information.

www.kubota.com©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2010

R.S. OSGOOD & SONSRt. 2, East Dixfield

Hours: Mon-Fri 8-5, Sat 8-12 • 645-4934 or 1-800-287-4934www.rsosgood.com email: [email protected]

82nd AnnualOPENHOUSEThursday, April 14 from 9am-6pm

Great Deals! Factory Reps on Hand! Refreshments & Giveaways!

Troublesome landscapes? Try these succulent plantsThere are many homeowners who aspire to have an award-winning landscape. The trouble is, not every yard is a perfect canvas for plantings. In most cases, there are one or more spots in a landscape that can prove troublesome and require different strategies.

One such st rategy is using succulents and rocks to contend with the weak areas of the yard. A rock garden accented with succulent plants can help make the most of dry patches or areas of steep inclines where planting lawn or other foliage is difficult.

Other areas of the yard may be marred by tree roots or sandy soil. Providing remedies for these areas can be as simple as arranging low-maintenance plants and decorative rocks.

Succulents are plants that thrive with minimal care and water. They store water in their leaves (cacti are a subset of succulents). Because they are drought-tolerant, succulents work well in sandy soil or areas that tend to be dry. They also produce shallow roots, which helps them thrive even in poor soil.

Many succulents are perennial plants, meaning they will come back year after year. They also work well in containers, which can be moved and rearranged to create different looks all around the yard.

To accent succulents in the ga r den , home ow ner s c a n enhance them with rocks and other decorative items. Rocks will help improve water f low and prevent run-off of soil.

Of tent imes, gardeners can take a clipping of a succulent plant and replant it somewhere else. This makes succulents an affordable addition to the yard because they can typically spread and prosper easily.

H e r e a r e s o m e p o p u l a r succulents that can adapt to many landscapes.

• Hens and chicks: These spreading plants are low-growing green leaves that form rosettes. Each rosette can grow around 5 inches wide.

• Autumn Joy: This succulent emerges in very early spring and develops into a dense, cabbage-shaped plant. Late in summer the succulent will sprout stalks of pink-shaded flowers, which will darken to a russet hue as the autumn approaches. A perennial, this succulent plant requires almost no upkeep.

• Yellow Ice Plant: A late-blooming, flowering succulent that features yellow blooms against dark foliage. The foliage turns red in the winter.

• Agave: A large succulent with blade-like foliage. It enjoys full sun but thrives in partial shade as well.

• Jade: The tree-like variety Crassula ovata can grow up to 6 feet tall. It prefers full sun and drying out between watering.

• Aloe: This healing plant is a succulent that can be a welcome addition to the trou-blesome landscape.

Succulents for the cold

When you hear the word “succulent,” do you envision a large cactus with prickly t hor ns ? Wel l , wh i le a l l cacti are succulents, not all succulents are cacti. Cacti store water in their stems, whereas some succulents store water in their leaves. Some succulents have a waxy cuticle to reduce water loss, while others, like cacti, have spines to protect them from intense sunl ight and dry winds. You might think the only place where you can grow succulents is indoors or outside in the arid Southwest, but that is not true. If you reside in northern areas of the country, you can grow succulents in your landscape.

There are several types of succulents that do well in colder zones. Some of these succulents include:

• Barrel cacti

• Hedgehog cacti

• Hens and chicks

• Ocotillo or vine cacti

• Prickly pear cacti

• Sedums

• Spurges

• Stonecrops

• Yucca (not really a succulent, but a good companion plant)

Troublesome areas in the landscape can be remedied with beautiful, low-maintenance succulent plants.

Your backyard is bland and needs something to make it more interest ing. The west side of your house is constantly buffeted by strong winds.

The number of trees your yard can sustain is dependent not only on the size of your yard, but also on the type of trees you select. If you do not account for the maturation of the trees you plant , the trees will quickly grow closely together, choke each other’s roots and die.

When buying trees, be sure to investigate how big they will get in 20 to 40 years. As to where to place the trees, that depends on your needs. If you are looking for a large tree to shade part of your backyard, do not plant it close to the house or other structures in your backyard. Most deciduous trees can be safely placed 20 yards from the house.

If you are looking for trees to break the wind, you may want to consider coniferous trees. Deciduous trees tend to branch out several yards above the ground and let wind in year-round, whereas coniferous trees begin to branch inches from the ground and are more effective

at blocking wind because they keep their needles year-round.

If you are looking for trees to make your backyard more interesting, try a blossoming tree l ike a magnolia or an apple. Fruit t rees make for conversation as they send out sweet smells from blossom and fruit and provide food for your family as well.

If you are too far north for many fruit trees, you can still have nut trees that leave a more durable and similarly delicious snack. For decorative purposes, deciduous trees are usually prefer red over con i ferous because they are constantly changing. While in the winter they look drab, they perk up with buds and blossoms in the spring, full leaves and seeds in the summer, and fruit or color-changing leaves in the fall.

In warmer climates, the leaves of deciduous t rees do not usually change colors, but the climate will sustain a wider variety of fruit trees. Once you have selected your trees, you are ready to plant them. First, you must dig a large hole in the area you have selected. The hole should be wide enough to provide at least a six- to eight-inch space all the way around

the tree. Place several inches of peat or enriched soil at the bottom of the hole and insert the tree in the hole.

Fill in the gap around the edge with more enriched soil and peat. Pack the soil t ightly to prevent the tree from falling over before it can take root. If needed, tie the tree with wire to stakes in the ground to keep it upright as it settles.

Repeat the process for each of the trees you have selected. With some time and effort, you can pick and plant some trees that will provide shade for years.

Grow it now for later

Thinking about growing your own Christmas tree? In the past , most Christmas t rees came from the forest; today over 98 percent are plantation grown.

Chr ist mas t ree farms add oxygen to the atmosphere, pr ov ide w i ld l i fe habi t a t , increase soil stability and are very attractive. Christmas trees are frequently planted on barren slopes or other cleared areas where no other crops will grow. For more information, visit MaineChristmasTree.com.


Pleasant Hill Lawn & Field Services

Complete Lawn Care & Yard WorkLandscaping & Hardscaping

Tree Work, Stump & Rock RemovalDecks, Patios & Retaining Walls

Free EstimatesCall Jason at 739-0675

Norway, ME

Why wouldanyone bank

anywhere else?

Do you feel like a "square" whenlooking for a loan that fits YOUR needs?

Perhaps you're just talking to the wrong lender.Franklin Savings Bank lenders look at the wholepicture. Large parcels, unique homes or other hard-to-appraise properties that don't qualify for conven-tional financing may well fit into our flexible in-housefinancing program.Give us a call and let's see which one of our newpurchase programs work best for you.

By Andrew McGlothlenFeature Writer

Stained to blend inTake a look around your land-scape. Got some concrete paths that have seen better days? You may think that the only way to deal with them is to break them up and repour them, but unless they are a hazard, you might not want to go to that extreme and consider staining them instead.

Staining concrete is simple, and although it won’t hide defects, it will give concrete a major boost.Stains work well on pavers and slabs, and in order to get started, you need to browse through the products available and look for one that is water-based and won’t harm the environment.

Keep in mind that colors will appear darker when spread over a large area, so try to go for a fairly light stain. Once you have selected the right color of stain, you can proceed with the actual staining. You will need to collect these supplies for your project:

• Safety glasses• Rubber gloves• Kneepads• Scrub brush• Concrete cleaner• Concrete stain• Tarps• Manual pump sprayer• Paintbrushes• Sealant

Then follow these directions to stain concrete:

1. Wea r i ng sa fe t y g lasses , rubber gloves and kneepads, grab a scrub brush and clean the concrete according to the manufacturer ’s direct ions listed on the concrete cleaner.

2. It is important to allow the concrete to dry thoroughly.

3. Find an inconspicuous area and do a test patch of stain. If

you like what you see, proceed to step 4.

4. It is important to protect all surroundings with tarps.

5. Apply a coat of stain to the concrete with a pump sprayer. Use a paintbrush for vertical elements to avoid drips.

6. Let the concrete dry and repeat the applicat ion as many times as suggested by the product manufacturer.

7. Apply a sealant following the manufacturer’s directions.

It doesn’t take much to stain concrete, and the results can enhance a landscape and extend the l i fe of concrete. Before you break up all of your worn concrete paths, give staining a try. It may just save hours and hours of backbreaking labor.

Popular concrete choice: Exposed aggregate

E x pose d ag g r e g at e t e ch-niqueOne of the most popular a nd endu r i ng de c or at ive concrete f inishes, exposed aggregate uses the texture of the rock or stone in the concrete to embellish the surface. In this technique, concrete is placed and floated as normal.

The concrete is left to set and the surface paste is later removed by washing and/or brushing. In a variation of the method, select aggregate is cast over the fresh surface and embedded prior to setting of the concrete.

Washing and brushing follow as before to remove the mortar from the surface, fully exposing the natural color and texture of the aggregate. An acid wash may also be performed to further remove paste from the aggre-gate and brighten the surface. — Courtesy of Portland Cement.

Shady characters used for many purposes in the landscape


One Power Source...Lots Of ToolsFor Your Use.

www.lapointes.net • M-F 8-5 • Sat 8:30-12

POWER BROOM

BLOWER

BRUSHCUTTER

TRIMMER

The Echo PAS-230 Power Source offersyou multiple attachments to save room,money and time on all your outdoor jobs.Each item offers a 5 year consumer war-ranty or a 2 year commercial warranty.

Other available attachments include edgers, tillers,thatchers, pruners and hedge trimmers.

22.8cc PASPower SourceThe ultimate inversatility!

Butterflies are a spring spectacleFew harbingers of spring are more spectacular to look at than the variety of butterf lies that take to the skies after they emerge from the chrysalis.

Although it is widely known that butterf lies and moths go t h rough a met a mor phosis to turn into their f inished forms, many are unaware just how many steps it takes for a butterfly to be ready to fly.

1. A butterf ly begins its life as an egg, which a female

butterf ly lays on a particular plant that the species of butterfly prefers to eat. This is called a host plant. Butterf lies are very particular about the type of plant that they eat. Certain species will only eat one type of plant or closely related varieties.

2. W h e n a b u t t e r f l y hatches from the egg, it is

called a larva, or a first instar caterpillar. The insect is very small and does nothing but eat and derive nutrients from the host plant.

3. Caterpillars are voracious eaters, and they grow

very quickly. The trouble is that their skin cannot grow. A new, larger skin must be formed. The caterpillar must molt its old skin so that the new, larger skin can emerge. As the caterpillar eats, it will go through more stages, depending on the species. It may become a second, third, fourth, and fifth instar caterpillar.

4. A caterpi l lar that has molted severa l t i mes

may look very different from

its initial larval form. It will be much larger and may have different colors and features.

5. During the f inal molt , the discarded skin will

become part of the chrysalis that will house the caterpillar as it pupates. The caterpillar spins a silk girdle that attaches it to a particular location, either on a tree branch or a plant stem.

6. Contrary to popular belief, butterflies are not formed

in cocoons. Their pupa is called a chrysalis. Only some varieties of moths transform inside of a cocoon. In the chrysalis, the caterpillar is undergoing a rapid transformation. The chewing mouthparts are turning into the sucking mouthparts of a butterf ly. Wings and antennae are also forming. The pupa stage is not merely a hibernation for the caterpillar. It is a time of very active growth.

7. About 10 to 14 days later the butterfly will emerge from

the chrysalis. Upon doing so the wings will be wet and small. The butterfly then pumps fluids through the wings to expand them. It also needs to get used to f lying. A recently hatched butterfly is very vulnerable until its wings are ready and dry.

8. An adult butterf ly eats nectar and reproduces

to begin the life cycle anew. Relatively speaking, a butterfly has a short l i fe span. Some species live only a few days. Others may live up to a year. This can make v iewing a spectacularly hued butterf ly in a spring garden even more poignant for the observer.

Adult butterf lies looking for nectar will seek out plants in the sunlight; rarely do they feed in the shade. Plants should have red, yellow, orange, pink, or

purple blossoms. Flat-topped or clustered flowers are preferred, as are short f lower tubes that enable the butterfly’s proboscis to fit in easily.

Butterflies undergo an amazing transformation into the delicate, winged creature that graces spring days.

Butterflies like these plants:

• Buckeye: Plantago and snapdragon for caterpillars; aster, chicory, coreopsis and milkweed for adults.

• Giant Swallowtail: Citrus, hop tree and prickly ash for caterpillars; azalea, golden-rod, Japanese honeysuckle, and milkweed for adults.

• Great Spangled Fritil-lary: Violet for caterpillars; black-eyed Susan, ironweed, purple coneflower and ver-bena for adults.

• Monarch: Milkweed for caterpillars; butterfly bush, goldenrod, ironweed, mint, milkweed, purple cone-flower and thistle for adults.

• Mourning Cloak: Aspen, birch, elm, poplar and wil-low for caterpillars; butterfly bush, milkweed, rotten fruit, and Shasta daisy for adults.

• Painted Lady: Cosmos, daisy, hollyhock, mallow and thistle for caterpillars; aster, butterfly bush, goldenrod, and milkweed for adults.

• Spring Azure Blue: Flower-ing dogwood tree and steeple bush for caterpillars; vibur-num and violet for adults.

• Tiger Swallowtail: Ash, birch, cherry, Easter cotton-wood, lilac and tulip tree for caterpillars; butterfly bush, ironweed, Japanese honey-suckle, lilac, milkweed, and purple coneflower for adults.

Many homeow ners equate a be aut i f u l l a nd sc ape t o rolling acres of pristine lawn. But changes in the cl imate a nd w idespre ad se asona l restrictions on water use each year could change the way people think about outfitting their yards.

There are many reasons people choose to forgo grass and opt for different ornamental elements in their yards. Cost is one factor to consider. While grass seed is relatively inexpensive, the upkeep, including mowing, fer t i l izing, re-seeding, and watering, requires a significant investment of both time and money. Many homeowners may choose to lay down sod to create a beautiful lawn, an expensive option for homeowners with vast landscapes.

The environment is another r e a son home ow ner s look for grass alternatives. Grass requires a lot of upkeep, much

of which is not environmentally friendly. For example, main-taining a pristine lawn requires

the use of a gas-powered mower and of tent imes the applica-tion of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Seeking alternatives to grass can be friendly on both the wallet and the environment. Here are some ideas for imple-ment ing an environmental alternative to the usual grass found in most backyards.

Grass-Free Landscaping Alternatives

For those who are ready to say goodbye to grass, there are many alternatives.

• Ground cover: Homeowners who still desire the look of g reen can choose among

d i f ferent t ypes of ground cover that will quickly fill in the landscape. Clover, low-growing evergreen plants and ivy are some of the more popular landscaping ground cover alternatives.

• Rocks : Decorat ive rocks intermingled wit h nat ive plants can add dimension and color to the yard. Once rocks are placed, there is little upkeep except for pulling the errant weeds.

• Mulch: A less expensive alternative to rocks is mulch. Mulch is available in different colors and types and can even be created by a homeowner by chipping trimmed branches from trees in the yard. It helps lock water into landscaping beds, decreasing the need for frequent watering.

• Water features: Think about installing a pond in the yard that can be bordered with stones and mulch. This will take up a good amount of space and can create a natural habitat for wildlife and even some low-maintenance pond fish.

• Concrete or patio stones: Alt hough t hey’re not a l l-nat ura l mater ia ls , pat ios can take up areas normally consumed by the lawn and create expansive outdoor entertaining areas. It wil l require an initial investment of the patio material, but once installed, patios don’t require s ig n i f ic a nt ma i ntena nce . Homeowners can offset the concrete jungle feel by placing plenty of potted plants and container foliage around the patio’s perimeter.

• Decking: Another alternative to concrete and stones is a wood or composite material deck. Again, this structure will increase outdoor living space and won’t require the level of routine maintenance needed to keep a lush lawn.


Creative LandscapeDesigns

ProfessionalLandscape Services

Huge Variety of Northern GrownTrees and Shrubs In Stock

Serving You For Over 30 Years• Delivery and professional installation

available for all products.• Bulk & Bagged Mulches,

Composts, Loam andStone products

GAMMONLANDSCAPE NURSERY

ROUTE 4, AUBURN 783-69863 Miles North of Auburn Mall

On Line Catalog: www.gammonlandscapenursery.com

HOURS: Monday - Friday 8-5, Saturday 8-4

Annuals andVegetable Seedlingsfor Mother's Day

20 South AvenueLewiston

Mon -Fri 6:30 to 5Open Sat. 7 AM

It’s Spring Clean Up Time...and EASY RENT-ALL has all thesweepers you need to make every jobeasy - from the biggest to the smallest.

Walk Behind SweeperSkid Steer Sweeper

Hand Held Sweeper

Check out our inventory on our websitewww.easyrentall.com

784-1541

Boom Lift -Remove

Ice StormDamage!Rider Sweeper

Going green: Grass-free landscaping a viable alternativeGREEN ALTERNATIVES: Grass-free alternatives, such as ground cover mixed with patio stones, can be an option for homeowners looking for less upkeep.


��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

Factory authorized full service dealer since 1967

Farris Equipment687 Route 202 • Greene, ME • 207-946-5050

Garden Tractors • Lawn TractorsZero-Turn Riders • Snowblowers

Commercial MowersZero-Turn - Three Wheel Riders

Hydro Walk Behinds

Walk-Behind MowersRear Engine Riders

Trimmer Mowers • ChainsawsMowers • Snowblowers

Leaf Blowers

Chainsaws • Brush CuttersString Trimmers • Leaf Blowers

Pressure Washers

Home Stand-By GeneratorsPortable Generators

Pressure WasherWater Pumps

Trimmer • Brush CutterHand Held BlowerBackpack Blowers

Eco-friendly: Homeowners embracing eco-scapingEco-friendly landscaping is growing increasingly popular among homeowners who wish to protect the environment . Often referred to as eco-scaping, c on ser vat ive la nd sc api ng includes removing invasive plants, conserving water and reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. Homeowners looking to landscape in a more eco-friendly way this gardening season can employ the following techniques around the yard.

Remove invasive plants.

Exotic plants are often invasive, as they have been brought here f rom d i f ferent ecosystems and therefore have no natural enemies to keep them under control. Though exotic plants might add significant aesthetic appeal, this may come at the expense of local wildlife and existing plants.

Many mistakenly assume all non-native plants are invasive, but that ’s not a lways t rue. Consult a local nursery before removing a foreign plant to determine if it’s invasive or non-invasive. If it’s non-invasive, it does not need to be removed. See a professional if you need help determining the nature of a plant in your yard.

Choose native plants whenever possible.

Native plants have adapted to the local climate and soil, which can offer numerous eco-friendly benef it s . Because they are accustomed to native conditions, nat ive plants do not need chemical fertilizers and require less water to thrive than their non-native counterparts, which have not adapted to the climate and soil. As a result, they need help to grow and survive. Native plants won’t harm surrounding wildlife or plants.

Plant strategically.

Plants can be very picky when it comes to growing conditions. I f placed in poor growing conditions, plants will require chemical supplements to thrive and more water to survive. To avoid this problem in your yard, plant strategically.

Find appropriate light, moisture and soil condit ions for any new plants, and then plant accordingly. Doing so requires less maintenance, saving you money while adding aesthetic appeal to your property. Visit a local nursery where you can get help to find the right growing conditions for your plants.

Water properly.

Far too often homeowners waste water, particularly when the mercury rises. Overwatering plants leads to excess runoff, which can result in pesticides and fertilizers being carried to local streams and rivers.

Excessive watering can also filter nutrients from the soil. When watering, water early in the morning, which allows pla nt s t o c onser ve wat er throughout the day. Nat ive plants that have established themselves should not need supplemental watering.

Reduce reliance on chemical pesticides.

Pest icides should be a last resor t . In addit ion to their potent ial ly harmful ef fects on t he lo c a l e c o s ys t e m , pesticides can be harmful to human health. Pesticides often exacerbate pest problems, killing the beneficial species l ike ear thworms that don’t recover as quickly as their more harmful pest counterparts. O n l y u s e p e s t i c i d e s i f absolutely necessary. Consult a professional and ask about alternatives to pesticides.

Employing proper watering guidelines is one way homeowners can adopt more eco-friendly landscaping practices.

First-time homeowners can be overwhelmed at the respon-sibility that comes with home ownership. While some of the responsibilit ies of owning a home can be stressful, others can prove therapeutic.

Many homeowners find caring for their lawns to be an enjoy-able hobby that helps relieve stress. Time spent outdoors in the warm sun helps improve mood, and a lush lawn and garden can instill a sense of

pride in homeowners. First-time homeowners with no history of caring for a lawn can turn their lawn into a lush oasis of which to be proud.

Start with the soil

Soil is the foundation for any good lawn or garden. Healthy soil will result in healthy plants and vegetables. Unfortunately, not all homeowners are lawn-care enthusiasts, and first-time homeowners might discover

their lawns and gardens need lots of work. That work should begin with a soil test . Do-it-yourself soil kits are available at most major home improvement and lawn and garden centers.

For those who prefer to use the services of a soil testing professional, the United States Depar tment of Agr iculture has Cooperat ive Extension System off ices in every state and U.S. territory. Such offices provide valuable information to homeowners, and many even provide free or low-cost soil tests. These tests can help homeowners learn more about the soil in their yard and what, if anything, they need to do to improve its health.

Find the right grass

Some lawns might be an eyesore because the grass is not the right type of grass for that particular region. If a grass is not a good fit for the region and local climate, it likely won’t thrive or will require considerable and often costly maintenance to stay lush.

Bermuda and tall fescue grasses are popular options in many

areas of North America, but it’s still best to consult a lawncare professiona l to deter m i ne


May 6th, 7th and 8th

Great selection ofvegetable seedlings,annuals, perennials,geraniums, hanging

baskets, planters andmemorial baskets.

Open 7 days a week • 9am-6pm123 Earl Jack Road, North Buckfield

336-2973

Jack’s Greenhouse

Open HouseOpen House

McLaughlin GardenA Living Treasure

Historic Home and Barn - One of the first of its kind to beplaced on the National Historic Register

Heritage Garden - A 4-acre, 75-year-old garden createdby Maine’s “Dean of Gardening”, Bernard McLaughlinfeaturing stunning collections of lilacs, iris, and lilies tuckedalong shaded paths

The Potting Shed - A charming gift shop where you can findunique garden decor, jewelry, bath products, and more, most ofwhich is made locally

www.mclaughlingarden.org

There isalways somethingblooming at theGarden!

Check the websitefor special eventsand programs.

McLaughlinGarden is freethroughoutmost of theseason.

Special eventsmay have

admission fees.

97 Main St., So. Paris, Maine 02481

207-743-8820

Plus we do excavation work for:Septics • Driveways

Landscaping • Lawns • Cement Pads

Free estimates • Fully insuredServing the area since 1963

Your local contractor.We deliver sand, gravel, loam, crushed rock

& many other home and commerciallandscape products.

George R. FarrisConstruction687 Route 202Greene, ME207-946-5050

George R. Farris Construction

Enjoy yourself: Lawn care tips for first-time homeowners

Maintaining a lush lawn can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby for homeowners.

First-timepage 9 ‰

which grass is best for a given region. Learn the ins and outs of caring for the grass in your yard, including which types of seed and fertilizer are the best fit, as well as the recommended watering guidelines.

Plant properly

Planting new grass might seem like a big undertaking, but it’s actually quite easy, even for first-time homeowners. Once a person has determined the correct type of grass to install, planting is much more simple that one might think.

Aerate the soil

Soil compaction is a problem for many homeowners. Heavy usage often compacts the soil, making it very dif f icult for the lawn to hold oxygen and water that roots need to grow and absorb valuable nutrients. Aerating increases nutrient , oxygen and water movement into the soil, improving rooting and controlling thatch buildup. Hand aerators might prove ef fect ive on smaller lawns, but most lawns would benefit from a core aeration machine.

For f irst-t ime homeowners, it might be best to enlist the services of a professional the first time aeration of your lawn is done to learn the process.

Spread seed evenly

Grass seed should be spread evenly over all t illed areas. Spreading can be done by hand or by using a seed spreader.

Add a light layer of soil over the seed

Once the seed has been spread, cover the seeded areas with a light layer of soil. Some soils are treated, and these treated soils provide nutrients that encourage growth.

Water well but don’t overdo it

The soil around the seed should be moist until the grass has grown in to its desired height. Avoid overwatering, which can drown the seed and make new grass growth impossible.

Fertilize

Fertilizer is a friend to lawns, providing the nutrients a lawn needs to grow in thick. When fertilizing, use a spreader. The type of spreader is up to the

homeowners, but know that drop spreaders, which drop the fertilizer directly below the spreader, tend to be more accurate but take more time.

Broadcast spreaders, which drop fertilizer in a pattern away from the spreader, are less accurate but cover large areas in a much shorter period of time. Avoid fertilizing the same area twice, and be patient.

Fert il izing might seem like a tedious process, but if done

correctly, it should lead to a lush lawn. When fertilizing, it’s best to do so during the fall and spring. The exact time to fertilize depends on the region, but it’s generally best to fertilize between April and early June, and then in the fall between late September and early November.

When it comes to lawn care, first-time homeowners should not be int imidated by this sudden responsibility. Caring for a lawn can be a relaxing and rewarding hobby.


We are proud to be L/A’s newest TORO commercialand comsumer Lawn and Garden Dealer.

Mow Like A Prowww.toro.com

Z Master G3

Recycler,Personal Pace

REGGIE’S SALES AND SERVICE1334 MINOT AVE.,

AUBURN, ME 04210207-783-0558

Hours: Monday,Wednesday, Friday 7am-6pm Tuesday & Thursday 7am-5pm Saturday 8am-1pm

Farmer WhitingGreenhouse Located Outer Summer St., Auburn

(Just Beyond Grace Lutheran Church Overlooking Lake Auburn)

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Starting May 6th~ Thank You For Supporting Your Local Farmer ~

The Farm in the Heart of the City...Planted withOld-Fashioned

Pride...• Endless Variety of Flowers• Hanging Baskets• Perennials • Herbs• Vegetable Seedlings

One of AreasLargest Selections

Service. Knowledge. Selection. Financing. Delivery.

1 as rated by engine manufacturer 2 Actual retail prices are set by dealer and may vary. Taxes, freight, setupand handling charges may be additional and may vary. Models subjest to limited availability.

WATERMAN FARMMACHINERY CO INC.

827 Sabattus Rd.Sabattus, ME

(207) 375-6561

• Hydrostatic transmission withselectable 4WD

• Fully hydraulic power steering• Large flywheel for smoother,more sustained horsepower

A Better Tractor. A Better Price.

Ex3200 TLB

32 HP1 3-CYLINDER DIRECTINJECTION DIESEL ENGINE

Sale Price Only

$28,900Includes Curved Boom Loader

and Curved Boom Backhoe

CUB CADET YANMAR 2010 COMPACT TRACTOR

55TH ANNUAL OPEN HOUSESATURDAY, APRIL 9TH • 9AM-4PM

Pancake Breakfast • Factory DemonstrationsFactory Reps Will Be Available • Door Prizes

$3 Donation for breakfast donated to the Sabattus Recreation Club.

2

Regular HoursMay to September:

Weekdays 9 am to 5 pmWeekends 9 am to 3 pm

(Closed Mondays)

Meadow RidgePerennial Farm316 Back Street, Hebron

(1.4 Miles off Route 119)

577-1612Wonderful selection of hardy locally

grown perennials and flowering shrubsto grace your gardens from spring to

fall. Fresh cut flower bouquets.

OPEN FOR THE SEASON MAY 1st!

We welcome you back foranother gardening season!

www.MeadowRidgePerennials.com

First-timefrom page 8Grasses

for difficult sites Drought-resistant grasses are numerous. Blue-green sedge is perfect for massing in dry areas, but is invasive and will take over if not controlled.

As a deer repellent, you can’t miss with Miscanthus. There are many varieties to choose from. They can range from two feet to over 10 feet tall. For example, one of the tallest is the giant Chinese silver grass. This plant makes an excellent screen, blooming late into fall. One of the smallest is Dixieland. As a dwarf, it grows only three to four feet tall and makes an excellent specimen plant.

Pennisetum incomptum is the perfect grass for hillsides where soil stabilization is important. At three to four feet in height, its tall white plumes will blow gently in a June breeze.

For screening, ornamental grasses are ideal if you need a screen in a hurry and don’t want to wait the 10–20 years for a hedge or evergreen grouping to grow up. Arundo donax is unbeatable. Its large canes reach over nine feet tall and are suitable for the center of a circular bed as well as the edge of a property.


We Have AllYour Lawncare

Needs!

LAWNMOWERS“Check Out Our

Great Prices”

Frechette’sSales & Service

Route #117Buckfield • 336-2986

DEC.

JUNEMAY

APR.

MA

R.

JULY

AUG

.

SEPT

.O

CT.

NOV. JAN.

FEB.BENNER

&SON

BENNER&

SON

27 YearsExperience and still...

Not your ordinary landscaper.

ProvenExcellence....Fully Insured

782-4920

OUR TIMEIS YOUR TIME!

www.kubota.com©Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2011

*$0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for terms up to 48 months on purchases of select new Kubotaequipment from available inventory at participating dealers through 3/31/2011. Example: A48-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 48 payments of $20.83per $1,000 borrowed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentationpreparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordancewith state laws. Only Kubota and select Kubota performance-matched Land Pride equipment iseligible. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available forRental, National Accounts or Governmental customers. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may notbe available with customer instant rebate (C.I.R.) offers. Financing is available through KubotaCredit Corporation, U.S.A., 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval.Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 3/31/2011. See us for details on these and other low-rateoptions or go to www.kubota.com for more information.

$0Down&O%A.P.R. Financing for 4Years*

B3300SU

Time�ieswhenyouworkwith top-quality equipment likeKubotaBSeries compact tractors.And rightnow,time isonyour sidewith long-term,low-rate�nancing throughMarch31, 2011.

t~ääáåÖÑçêÇ bèìáéãÉåí `çOROT qìêåÉê oÇK

^ìÄìêåI jb MQONM

EOMTF TUOJQUUSwww.wallingfordequipment.com

2527 Turner Rd., Auburn, ME 04210(207) 782-4886 Fax: (207) 795-0429

Toll Free: 1-800-427-4886

Extended

Thru

June 30th

*0% down, 0% A.P.R. financing for terms up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubota equip-ment from available inventory at participating dealers through 3/31/2011. Example: A 60-month monthlyinstallment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 60 payments of $20.83 per $1,000 borrowed. 0%A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealercharge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Only Kubota and selectKubota performance-matched Land Pride equipment is eligible. Inclusion of ineligible equipment mayresult in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available for Rental, National Accounts or Governmental custom-ers. 0% A.P.R. and low-rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate (C.I.R.) offers.Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation. U.S.A., 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA90503; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 6/30/2011. See us for details onthese and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information.

Financing for 60 months*Down &Time flies when you work with top-quality equipment like Kubota B Series compact tractors.

And right now, time is on yiour side with long-term, low-rate financing through June 30, 2011.

Top priority: Lawn mower maintenance a vital choreFrom yard work and pest control to cleaning and taking care of home systems, there’s a lot that goes into maintaining a house. Everything Home offers practical tips and expert know-how to help anyone take good care of their home.

Regular lawn mower mainte-nance is vital to keeping this tool running well. These tips from the experts at TruGreen will help you take care of the work-horse of lawn care.

Sharpen the blade

The sharper the blade, the cleaner your mower will cut the grass, and the better your lawn will look. Dull blades can shred grass and cause discoloration at the tips.

If you don’t have the time or the inclination to sharpen the blade yourself, pack up your mower (or carefully remove the mower

blade) and take it to a repair shop or home improvement store. For the do-it yourselfer, take a look at these general tips – for safety, always consult the owner’s manual for instructions specific to your machine.

To sharpen a blade:

1. D r a i n t h e g a s a n d disconnect the spark plug.

2. Clamp a piece of wood to the deck to keep the blade

from turning.

3. T u r n t he blade bol t cou nter c lockw ise to

remove it. If there is resistance, apply some penetrating oil, wait 15 minutes and try again.

4. Remove the blade and mark the bottom side so

you can put it back on correctly.

5. Clamp the blade in a bench vise and sharpen

with a 10-inch mill file. Use long

strokes and work from the center outward. Use the same number of strokes on each side and keep the same angle.

6. Balance t he blade on a balance tool – it’s an

inexpensive pyramid-shaped tool found in most hardware stores. If one side of the blade

hangs lower than the other side, grind off excess metal from the end of the blade – not from the part that was just sharpened.

Reinstall blade.

When you reinstall the mower blade, make sure you place it at the proper mowing height.

“Letting grass grow tall and then removing more than one-third of the leaf blade is called scalping and can damage the lawn,” said Ben Hamza, Ph.D., director of technical operations at TruGreen. “Be careful not to mow grass extremely low as you can damage the lawn by cutting into the crowns of the plants.” (Family Features)

The right tools maintained well will make your yard chores a

breeze.


��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

��

DAVES SMALL ENGINEREPAIR, LLC

910 MAIN STREET, OXFORD ME 04270207-539-2600

Route 26

Yard care: Must-have tools for the outdoor handymanSpring has sprung for most areas of the country and the average homeowner’s “honey-do” list likely has its share of outdoor landscaping tasks that need to be tackled. The right tools can make easier work of outdoor chores. A report from the Associated Landscape Contractors of America titled, “Economic Benefits of Landscape,” states that landscaping can add as much as 14 percent to the resale value of a building and speed its sale by as much as six weeks.

Homeowners looking to sell their home or just improve its market value will want to consider landscaping as a viable investment. Homeowners can expect to earn back 150 percent or more of their landscape investment through the value it brings to a property. Whatever the landscaping project, the right tools will make any task that much easier. There are certain items homeowners should have in his or her gardening arsenal.

Soil cultivator: A multi-pronged tool that breaks up clods of soil and grass to provide easier planting.

Various garden hoes: Hoes can be used for chores such as breaking up soil, weeding, cultivating, aerating, and many other purposes.

Spading fork: Another tool that loosens soil with straight tines that dig through dense soil.

Shovel: A multipurpose shovel can dig through dirt, gravel and the like.

Rake: A steel-pronged rake will till soil and spread out mulch and other organic matter in planting beds. A flexible rake is good for collecting leaves and thatch.

Edger: Available as manual or gas powered, an edger gives planting beds and the edges of lawns a clean look.

String trimmer: Weeds can easily be trimmed with a string trimmer that can

work around bushes and other hard-to-reach areas.

Gloves: Avoid blisters and insect bites on your hands with durable gloves that protect the hands.

Lawn mower: To maintain a healthy lawn it will have to be trimmed to the correct height. A manual or powered lawn mower is the essential tool.

Collection bags/bins: To properly dispose of organic matter such as leaves

and branches, it makes sense to have recyclable or reusable bags on hand for transporting waste.

Hoses: Drip irrigation hoses can deliver water right to plants’ roots where they need it most. A regular nozzle-powered hose can be used for cleaning and misting plants and surrounding hardscapes.

Compost bin: “Black gold” is the ideal landscaping supplement . By creating compost from discarded food, a homeowner can generate the prime fertilizer needed to keep plants healthy.

Wheelbarrow: Transporting gravel, rocks, mulch, shrubbery, and many other garden essentials is made easier with the help of a wheelbarrow or a garden cart.

Branch pruner: A durable branch trimmer/pruner can cut through thick or thin branches and keep landscape items tidy. Pruning also helps promote growth of many flowers and shrubs.

Overhead pruner: Errant shrub and tree branches in hard-to-reach areas can be trimmed with an overhead pruner with an extendable arm.

Depend i ng on speci f ic i nterest s , homeowners can stock up on trowels, bulb planters, chain saws and other items that will get jobs done around the exterior of the home.

Well, spring is almost here. As I write this, there are still snow banks here in Turner, but the mud is appearing bit by bit.

Mud is always a sure sign of spring.

Mud on the roads and on your boots is one thing, but mud in your garden is entirely dif ferent and a sign you need to pay attention to if you are a gardener. If your garden is still very wet, as much as you may want to, leave it alone. Gardeners do more harm to their plants and bring more frustration unto themselves by “wading” in too early. Every step you take on wet ground compacts the dirt and when you compact the dirt, you compact plant roots. They have survived winter and are just beginning to circulate water and nutrients through their root system.

The plant roots are fragile and tender and compaction makes their survival that much more difficult. If you have beds that can be reached without walking onto them, have at it. If you are like me,

there will be plenty of weeds showing their heads because I never get around to that final weeding that I intend to do. You can also rake, but, please remember, the ground is extremely soft and a rake tine can pull up an entire plant by just one small branch. I find a bamboo rake in the spring, although not as efficient, is much

safer than a metal fan rake (because along with those weeds I didn’t pull, I didn’t rake the oak leaves either).

I found this clever little bamboo rake which is straight, not a fan shape, and is only about 6 or 8 inches wide. It is great for early spring gardens because you can easily go around plants without going over them. Also, be very careful of those plants like bleeding hearts and ferns because their first growth, which may be showing above ground shortly, contains their fronds and they are very easily damaged and even pulled up. So take that rake around them and handpick the leaves and debris from their centers.

I know, really I do, how hard it is to keep from putting your hands in spring dirt. It is always a long winter and when it begins to smell like spring, it is like an unspoken command to gardeners that we must respond. Well, here is a way that will both satisfy and reward you all summer and throughout next winter as well.

I have passed a half-dozen greenhouses in the past few weeks with signs that say, “Opening April 1” or “Your Plants Are Growing.” There are spring bulbs tempting us in many stores. So, take advantage of what is available. You can pass a couple of these still cold evenings planning your container gardens, but maybe try a little something new this year.

Container gardens, when torn apart in fall, will provide new garden plants and new houseplants to get you through next winter. There is nothing more wonderful than looking at vigorous green plants and blossoms by windows when the entire world outside is white in January. If you do not have this green blessing now in your house, you can have it next winter.

With all the new miniature perennials being of fered by various companies, variety is not a problem. Dwarf coral bells, hostas, daisies, dianthus, brown-eyed Susans, many types of begonias and ferns all make great container plants.

Add a few bulbs, such as little daffodils or patio dahlias, and perennial fillers, sold as annuals such as ivies and asparagus ferns, and you have a wonderful, colorful container for the summer. But , in September, instead of throwing it all in the compost pile, take it apart gently.

The hardy, miniature perennials can go into your regular garden beds to welcome you next spring as can the daffodil bulbs, while the dahlia bulbs can be packed away for use next year either in containers or your garden. The ivies, begonias and asparagus ferns can be potted up as houseplants to enjoy over the winter. Asparagus fern is especially resilient, does well even with neglect and home heating, and can take a lack of southern light.

Did you know that asparagus fern is one of the most efficient air-cleaning plants that we know of in ecology? And that can’t hurt in a house that is closed up for five or six months. If you have southern windows, don’t forget a few containers of geraniums

which, in the fall, can be brought in and will brighten your house with blossoms all winter and then be cut back in March to go back outside for May.

If you have room to bring your containers in at night and on cold days, pot away. If you do not, most nurseries have an area where they keep plants that have been sold until you can pick them up. It will be only a few weeks until many containers will be safe outside, at least during the day.

So hang on, do a bit of planning and dreaming, and let the games begin.

Happy gardening.

Jody Goodwin has been gardening for more than 25 years. She lives in Turner with her husband, Ike, her dog and two cats. She may be reached by writing to her in care of the Sun Journal, 104 Park St., Lewiston, Maine, 04243-4400 or by email at [email protected].

Happy spring

Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 201112 LANDSCAPE & GARDEN Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Saturday, April 9, 2011 LANDSCAPE & GARDEN 13

By Jody Goodwin Feature Writer / Photographer

a time of

Renewal

This is just one of many coral bells that work in containers and can be moved to the garden. Many types of dianthus are perennial and will transfer to your garden beds in the fall.

Geraniums brighten containers in the summer and your house in the winter.

This patio dahlia brightens up a container all summer and can brighten your garden next spring.

Spring returns to the garden, bringing perfect begonias, bright geraniums — and work balanced with moments of serenity

Whether tending to a houseplant , growing some f lowers or turning an outdoor garden into a relaxing retreat, plants have the power to heal our body and our soul. Research has shown that working in the garden can benefit everyone. The physical ef for ts of gardening — digging, planting, bending and walking — are great forms of exercise to keep the body healthy.

Strenuous yard work such as digging or weeding not only burns calories, it is similar to weight training in building bones and preventing osteoporosis. Gardens and gardening activity can also improve mental outlook and our emotional mood by reducing stress, anxiety and depression.

Studies have found that gardening can lower blood pressure and cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart disease. Researchers at the Cleveland Botanical Garden found that the blood pressure of many visitors dropped the longer they stayed in the gardens.

A heal ing garden can take many forms but always provides interaction with nature. Visually plants provide inspirational colors or peaceful tones. We can hear the relaxing sound of water or the stimulating activity of visiting wildlife. The rich aroma of fresh earth and the delightful scent of perfumed herbs fill the air we breathe, while the fresh flavor of a crispy pea pod or sweet berry tempts our taste buds. We can touch the velvety smoothness of a flower petal or be touched by the movement of leaves in the wind.

Begin to create your own garden of heal ing today simply by plant ing a cont a iner f i l led w it h color f u l f lowers, a nutritious vegetable, or an herb such as lavender, sage, basil or thyme. In addition to being attractive and aromatic, these and many other herbs have been used medicinally for centuries. Watching and nurturing any plant as it grows provides power and energy to enhance your well-being.

In an outdoor setting, incorporating a few simple design elements turns any garden into a place of healing, meditation and inspiration.

• Grow plants that you find pleasing. Are you energized by bright colors? Then include annuals such as zinnias, petunias, sunf lowers or cosmos. If you enjoy cooking, incorporate herbs, vegetables and edible f lowers into your garden. Plants such as sage or

lavender can be harvested and used for aromatherapy.

• Include a place to sit and observe the beauty of nature or a path for walking through the garden. Enclose it with shrubs or fencing to create a secluded retreat.

• Add a focal point for meditation and reflection such as a piece of sculpture, a special plant, interesting rocks, wind chimes or a water fountain.

• Encourage butterf lies, birds, insects and other wildlife to the garden for their healing energy. Birdfeeders and birdhouses quickly and easily begin attracting garden visitors. Choose plants that supply nectar and food including conef lowers (Echinacea purpurea), butterfly flower (Aesclepias tuberosa) salvias (Salvia spp.), dill, parsley and sunflowers.

The design and development of a healing garden, just like the process of healing and recovery, takes place over time. It is that journey and the time spent with nature that heals our body and soul.

For add i t iona l r e sou rc e s about t he r ap e ut ic g a r de n s , v i s i t t he Therapeut ic Landscapes Database (www.healinglandscapes.org), which lists healing gardens throughout the United States and Canada, as well as links to other informational websites and organizations.

Create a healing garden

Home gardeners and lawn enthusiasts generally accu-mulate a number of tools of the landscaping trade in order to successfully manage their gardening needs. As a result, many homeowners bui ld a garden shed to store all their tools and lawn care accessories.

A garden shed presents an ideal way to store all of the tools and appliances needed for the weekend landscape hobby. Plus, it enables homeowners to clear out clutter from the garage or basement. A locked garden shed can be a safe place in which to store sharp tools, fuel and some chemical products.

Just because the shed will have utility doesn’t mean it has to be an eyesore on the property. There are ways to create or purchase garden sheds that are aesthetically appealing and will

blend in with the landscape or the main house.

Do-it-yoursel fers who have decided to build a garden shed and want to do so affordably can shop around for lower-priced material. It may be a good idea to purchase a framing kit from a home-improvement store or online retailer and then shop around for exterior materials. Individuals can also find used sheds from auct ion sites or newspaper classi f ieds and simply retrofit these structures to meet individual needs.

Although sheds will be exposed to the elements, because they are not liveable structures they don’t require the same level of construction as a home or addition, like a garage. This mea ns t hat a homeow ner is able to save some money with materials. Pressboard

may be durable enough and less expensive than plywood. There’s little need for insulation or expensive windows. In fact, unless it is for a decorative s t a ndpoi nt , w i ndows a r e unnecessary altogether.

It is likely that people who have had recent upgrades made on their homes may have leftover materials that can be put to use on a garden shed. Roofing sh ing les , ex t ra a luminum siding and wood trim can be used on the shed. Even leftover latex paints and stains can be used on the shed.

Homeowners should visit a retailer of prefabricated sheds to see how they are made. This can provide insight as to the size and structure and the type of construction that will be needed.

I f budget is not a concern, homeowners may want to purchase pre-made sheds that can be customized to mimic the architecture and color of the person’s home. Stained glass and cottage features can make a shed seem like an intimate retreat nestled in the yard.

In addition to being a fine place to store garden tools, a shed can also be constructed to serve as a child’s play space. A miniature home in the yard can be a fun play zone for kids and be the centerpiece for hours of imaginative outdoor fun.


Reid’sS e r v i c e C e n t e r

R t . 2 6 , O x f o r d , M a i n e

2 0 7 - 5 3 9 - 4 4 2 5w w w . r e i d s s e r v i c e c e n t e r . c o m

Starting at$199 Month

Create an attractive and affordable multi-use garden shed

A strategically placed shed can serve many purposes. This decorative garden shed can be the ideal place to store garden tools and equipment ... or it can be used as a child’s backyard hideaway. Perhaps you build the shed now as a playhouse and convert it to a garden shed later after the kids have grown up.


The secretof my

green thumb!

Environmentally Safe Lawn and Garden CompostFrom the Lewiston-Auburn Water Pollution Control Authority

535 Lincoln Street, LewistonA great value for lawns, flowers, even vegetables

$7.00 per cubic yard loaded into your pickup

Please note our change in Sales Hours!

Wednesdays and Saturdays8 am to 4 pm

Public Sales Bulk Sales (discounts)782-0917 784-9609

Mai

neGro Compost

Creative Playtime Series

at

207-539-9930712 Main St. (Rt. 26), Oxford • Monday-Saturday 9 am-5 pm

Our Rich Soil & Quality SeedMakes Superior Sod • Grown Locally

Rt. 113, Fryeburg, Me.500 Sq. Ft. Minimum

25/Sq. Foot*

866-GTF-TURF(866-483-8873)

[email protected]

*Farm Pickup OnlyPlease Call for Delivered Pricing

Gardening With Charlie By Charlie Nardozzi

Planning ahead: Succession in the vegetable garden

Spring in the garden is a dangerous time.

The temptation is to go out on those warm, sunny days and plant until you drop. Not only is that action strenuous on your body and mind, it can also lead to the proverbial glut of food in a few months.

A better solution is to plan out your annual edible garden so crops mature in a more orderly fashion. Succession planting requires a little knowledge of the type of plants you’re growing, a little planning to have room for them to grow, and the patience to plant each crop in turn.

It is important to know that other gardening techniques, such as crop rotat ion and i n t e r p l a n t i n g , c a n h e l p maximize growing space and help your plants avoid many soil-borne diseases and insects.

Planting for success

Succession planting is a simple concept: Plant small rows or beds of plants periodical ly during the growing season. As one planting’s harvest begins to fade, the next plant ing’s harvest will be ready. The key is knowing what vegetables can be planted in succession, and the best time of year to do it.

To succession plant, start in spring with cool-season crops that can be planted early, such as lettuce, spinach, peas, broccol i , greens, pak choi ,

carrots, radishes, and beets. For example, instead of planting one long row or bed of lettuce, consider planting a short, 2-foot-long row or bed.

Two weeks later, sow another 2-foot-long row, and so on until the weather gets too warm for lettuce. Since the plants mature in one to two months you’ll get a continuous harvest of lettuce.

For warm weather crops, such as bush beans, summer squash, or cucumbers, follow the same planting pattern. Plant one bed af ter the last frost date, and another three or four weeks later. Since these crops take at least 60 days to mature, in regions with short growing seasons you may have time for just two successive crops before the weather gets too cold.

As late summer weather cools, you can start planting lettuce again for a fall or winter crop, depending on your location. Because the amount of daylight decreases in autumn, plants grow more slowly in fall than in spring, so allow more time for them to mature.

The other key to succession planting is leaving room to plant. The temptation is to plant everything all at once and fill the garden. It’s important to plan for subsequent plantings. Cover unused beds with straw or other mulch to deter weeds.

Pull out old crops as soon as they finish producing. Don’t let those peas hang on just because there are a few fruits on the vine.

Pull old lettuce and spinach plants as soon as they show signs of bolting.

It takes a l it t le planning in advance, but you’ll be amazed at where you can tuck in a few broccoli or pak choi plants or a small row of beans.

For more tips and garden infor-mation, visit www.garden.org.

Charlie Nardozzi, a nationally recognized garden writer, book author, speaker and radio and television personality, has appeared on HGTV, PBS and Discovery Channel television ne twork s . He t eache s and inspires home gardeners to grow the best vegetables, fruits, flowers, trees and shrubs in their yards. (Family Features)

Plan your vegetable garden for a succession of plants.

By being a little hard-hearted,

you’ll create lots of room to grow

a second and third crop.


Landscape & HardscapeDesign and InstallationGround Maintenance

143 Lisbon St., Lisbon, Maine • 353-7800Open House May 7 & 8

Check out our expansion across the street!Clip this ad for special drawing

“More than just pavers & trees,ideas that will grow on you.”

Full Retail Nursery:• Expanded Varieties of Trees-Veggies-Perennials-Annuals• Bagged & Bulk Materials-picked up or delivered• Pavers-Granite Products-Bird Baths-Maine Crafts etc.

www.mtblueagway.comRoutes 2 & 4, E. Wilton

For All Your Lawn & Garden Care Needs

MT BLUE AGWAY 778-4054

6 Month Deferred Interest With PaymentOn purchases of $199 or more with your Agway Card. Interest will be charged to your accountfrom the purchase date if the promotional balance, including optional charges, is not paid infull within 6 months or if you make a late payment. Minimum month;y payments required.*

New CardMembers Take 15% OFF

Your First Purchase!On your Agway Consumer CreditCard Maximum Discount $150.

Offer expires May 31, 2011

COMBINATIONPOWER HEADKM 90

$27999

POWER SWEEPATTACHMENTKM KW

$31999MM55C-E

$39995

$9999MS250 CHAIN SAW

$2999516" Bar

Think for Your Spring Clean-Up Needs!

TRIMMER ATTACHMENT

YARD BOSS

Planting pointers: Successfully plant around your property

For homeowners, spring often means it is time to bring their property back to life. Once the winter weather has subsided, it’s time to head outside and take inventory of the landscape and see how the yard, trees, bushes, and shrubs fared after another long winter.

One of the best and most eco-friendly ways to bring your yard back to life is to plant around the property. Planting can be a soothing and enjoyable way to spend some time outdoors in the spring air, and it’s not as difficult as it may seem.

Be aware of depth.

It’s common for those who aren’t used to gardening to plant too deeply. The idea of planting

deeply seems to be correct, as homeowners want to be certain their plants or trees will take root and it seems like common sense that the deeper the plant is planted, the more likely it is to take root. The planting depth should mirror the depth the plant was grown at the nursery.

When purchasing a plant at the nursery, ask for the planting depth and be sure not to go any deeper than that when planting the plant on your property.

Stake new trees.

While it ’s great to imagine spring as a season of warm sun and extended daylight, in reality, most regions still get some wind and cold throughout spring. This can make planting

trees a difficult proposition, as new trees might rock back and forth and struggle to establish new roots.

To mitigate any strong winds, stake new trees when planting around the property. Not all new trees need to be staked, but for the ones that do, the stakes will act as a stabilizing force during strong winds, enabling the tree to establish healthy roots for years to come.

Consider container-grown plants.

Novice green-thumbers might find it best to go with container-grown plants. Container-grown plants are easy to plant around the property, and it’s also easy to change the look of the property by simply moving the plants around. As the seasons change, it’s easy to reposition the plants so they’re still getting the sun exposure they need to thrive.

Get a second opinion.

Plant ing t rees around t he property can be akin to hanging a paint ing on the wall. It ’s always best to get a second opin ion to make sure t he

painting is straight , and the same goes with planting trees.

Before backfilling the hole, ask someone to look at the tree from several angles to ensure that it is straight. Once the tree has been backfilled, it’s awfully difficult to reposition the tree.

Give trees or plants their best chance to grow.

It’s important to survey the property ahead of planting to be

certain the plants will be in the best place to thrive.

Call the utility company and ask if there are any buried utility lines you’ll want to avoid. Also, a tree’s roots spread far beyond its branches, so be sure to plant the tree in a location that allows for that root growth without jeopardizing the property (i.e., roots spreading beneath the home’s foundation).

Planting during the spring season is a great way for homeowners to restore their property after a harsh winter.

Spring is a season for rebirth.

Maine’s native conifers

• Cedar: Atlantic White, Eastern Red and Northern White

• Fir: Balsam • Hemlock: Eastern

• Juniper: Common • Larch: Tamarack • Pine: Eastern White,

Jack (Gray), Pitch, and Red (Norway)

• Spruce: Black, Red, and White (Cat)

Taking the DIY approach to lawn and garden care has many advantages, such as saving money and offering some fresh air and exercise, but sometimes it can t ur n into a t imely endeavor. By the time you round up tools and supplies, figure out a plan of action and get working, you could easily lose half of your day to lawn care.

By approaching your lawn and garden care chores smart ly however, you can still have time for many other activities with family and friends. Here are five best practices from the experts at Ames True Temper that are sure to be welcome time savers for you this year:

Get organized.

Nothing’s more frustrating than not having a shovel or watering can on hand when you need it most. Reorganize your shed or garage on a regular basis. It will help you keep track of what you

have and what you need. A quick trip to your local garden center will be more productive when armed with a shopping list.

Make a plan.

Draw a map or layout of what you’d like each of your garden beds to look like. Label the plants that you’d like to use in particular areas; this way you’ve got clear direction.

Use multipurpose, time-saving garden tools.

There are many steps when it comes to outdoor projects, and the more motions you can cut out, the better. The Ames Planter’s Pal is a multipurpose hand-held tool that offers seven functions in one.

W het her weeding , cut t ing twine, opening a bag of mulch or digging a hole, the Planters Pal has all of your needs covered. Another time saver is the Ames

Water Genie, a l ightweight innovative watering can that connects to your spigot.

Take preventive steps.

Edge your gardens, and lay landscape fabric between the mulch and ground to prevent weeds from cropping up among your plants. This will help save time otherwise spent weeding.

Get the family involved.

The more helping hands you have, the easier it will be to get

the job done. Ames True Temper makes a line of real Kids Garden tools so it’s easy for everyone to help out. Once you’re equipped with the right tools and know-

how, you’ll be able to create and maintain a beautiful lawn and garden in no time. For more great tips, visit www.ames.com.


www.lapointes.netMon.-Fri. 8 to 5 Sat. 8:30 to 12

Sales& Service for over 50 years

• 12 Gal. Fuel Capacity• Maximum Forward Speed 10 mph• 29 HP Kohler Engine• 24" x 12" Drive Tires• Turbo Force Cutting Deck• Standard Adjustable Discharge baffle

Z Master G3 PerformanceZero-Turn Riders

Super RecyclerWalk Power Mower

• 6.75 ft.-lb. Gross Torque Briggs &Stratton Engine with Ready Start

• Recoil Start• Personal Pace Drive System• Mulch, Rear Bag, Side Discharge• 21" Cutting Width• Cast Aluminum Deck

All set upand readyto go!

270 Riverside Drive, Auburn • 782-1132 • Beginning April 16th Open Saturdays 7:00am-Noon

DIY: Gardening time savers

Use multipurpose, time-saving garden tools.

Homeowners have a variety of needs around the landscape that call for pavers or concrete, including driveways, patios and walkways. Deciding on a material means assessing needs and desired features as well as the cost of the project. In general, pavers are interlocking tiles of stone, brick or molded concrete. Concrete is poured in large, solid blocks with flexible spacers to allow for contraction and expansion depending on the weather.

Pavers

Pavers allow f lexibility in color and pattern. They can also be dug up and moved around at a later time. Different types of blocks can be interwoven to create a unique pattern. Because pavers are individual pieces, homeowners may find that installation is a do-it-yourself landscaping project.

There are many different price ranges for pavers, depending on the size and material. Some range from a few dollars a block to much more than that. Many home-improvement stores sell an array of pavers, or homeowners can order from a specialty retailer.

Pavers are often individually set with sand and leveling gravel. This means that over time they can settle and become uneven. Furthermore, because there is only sand in between, weeds may grow through the pavers over time, requiring added maintenance.

Concrete

Poured concrete is a permanent addition to the landscape. It cannot be poured and then reconfigured without major demolit ion. Also, because concrete requires precision and mastery, it is not something easily done by a do-it-

yourselfer. This means that a hired mason will have to be called to pour concrete features. This may make concrete a more expensive purchase than individual pavers.

Concrete is a cont inuous, poured substance. This means that weeds

will not grow through so there is less maintenance involved. But it’s important to know that even concrete that has been properly laid may shift or crack over time from the settling of the ground.

Thanks to innovations in concrete, homeowners who l ike the look of pavers without the work can investigate stamped concrete opt ions, where a pattern is embossed into the concrete before it dries. Colors, stains and etching procedures are also available.

There are a few other dist inct ions between these two materials that may also influence a homeowner’s decision. Pavers provide immediate gratification in that they can be enjoyed shortly after installation. Concrete, on the other hand, will require days to dry and cure.

Some town codes require a permit for pouring concrete because it is a permanent change to the home. Pavers may not require a permit because they are not permanent and can be removed.

When choosing between using pavers or concrete around a pool or water source, it is important to select a texture that will not be slippery when wet. Otherwise accidents and injuries may occur. The choice between concrete and pavers is one of personal preference as each material has its own advantages and disadvantages to consider.


Full Service Landscape & Garden CenterServing Central, Southern and Western Maine

Large Selection Of:• Trees & Shrubs• Perennials & Annuals• Garden Supplies• Mulch, Loam & Compost

(Delivery Available)

• Ornamental Statuary• Bird Feeders & Supplies

Services Offered:• Landscape Design & Installation• Landscape Restoration• Walkways & Patios• Retaining Walls• ICPI Certified Paver Installers• Tree & Shrub Work

Summer Home Grounds Keeping & Maintenance• LakeSmart Landscape Certified

998-5390www.shakerhillnursery.com

Over 2000Native Grown Trees in Our Nursery

271 Maine Street/Route 26,Poland

DEC

NOV

OC

T

SE

PT

AU

G

JULYJUNE

MAY

APR

MA

R

FEB

JAN

BENNER & SON

Fully Insured 27 Years of Service782-4920

1660 Perkins Ridge Rd., AuburnPO Box 1938, Auburn, Maine 04211

• Hedge & ShrubTrimming

• Backhoe• Landscape Ties• Lawn Installation

• Mowing• Pruning• Mulching• Planting• Reseeding

Proven Excellence

Our Work Speaks For Itself

Benner & SonSPRING CLEAN UP NOW!

Different purposes: Paving stones versus concrete

Paving stones are one option for homeowners looking to transform areas of their landscapes.

The homeowner will need to ascertain whether a permit is needed before starting a

poured concrete or paver project.


Roundabout FarmPerennialsOpening May 1st

Perennial Nursery in BuckfieldHundreds of varieties of perennials, lilacs,

hardy roses, shrubs, trees, flowering crabs.

Loam • Compost • Manure • Bark

Gift Certificates • Display Gardens

Pots are returnable/recyclable

1 mile off Rt. 117 at Jct. 124,

Corner N. Hill Rd.,& Roundabout Rd.

336-20869-5 Daily • 1-5 Sunday

P & S Trundy, Owners/Prop.

643 Main Street, Gorham, ME(207) 767-5555

MAINE TOLL FREE1-800-854-BUGS

Locally Owned and Operated since 1974(We are not a franchise or large out-of-state company)

STERLING INSECT/LAWNCONTROL, INC.

� ORGANIC BASED FERTILIZER � PHOSPHATE FREE �

• Mosquito control• Tick control• Fertilization•Aeration & overseeding• Organic programs available

Vegetables • FlowersAnnuals • Hanging Baskets

Planters • CannasMemorial PlantingServices Available

784-4061 1-800-640-ROAKVisit our Website: www.roaktheflorist.com

GREENHOUSE

Flower ShopGreenhouseGift Shop

...”Where The Gardeners Go!”

YOUR MAINSTREET FLORIST

793 Main St., Lewiston(Just Beyond Mardens)

"Serving You For Over 135 Years!"

Open: Mon.-Fri. 8 to 5; Saturday 8 to 12

The go-to spot: Protect your patio from wear and tearPatios are typically the go-to spot for warm weather outdoor meals.

Whether host ing fr iends or simply enjoying a relaxing meal under the evening sky, homeowners tend to spend as much time as possible on the patio once the weather warms up. Because it’s such a high-traffic area, the patio should be protected from wear and tear.

Wear and tear on the patio can result from Mother Nature or be a byproduct of all those spring and summer evenings spent relaxing outdoors. Fortunately, there are a handful of ways homeowners can keep their patios looking pristine through the summer party season.

Stain the concrete.

Staining concrete protects it from natural elements, which can cause the color of a patio to peel or f lake. Concrete stain penetrates deep and infuses the concrete with a permanent color that’s less likely to fall victim to the elements. Stains are generally solid-color stains or acid stains.

Solid-color stains, as their name suggests, provide a more even and solid look, while acid stains provide a more marble-like appearance. While neither are likely to fade or peel quickly, over time an additional coat or stain might need to be applied to counter natural factors like bright sunlight.

Cover the furniture.

Pat io f u r n i t u re c a n va r y signi f icant ly in pr ice and qua l it y. Homeow ners who picked up a few plastic chairs at the nearby grocery store might not feel furniture covers are worth the investment.

For homeowners with more expensive pat io furniture , durable furniture covers that can wit hst and year-round weather are a sound investment.

Waterproof and heat-resistant fabric is ideal, as the furniture will be vulnerable to spring rains, summer showers and high temperatures during the summer party season. Covers should also fit snugly around the furniture to provide optimal protection.

Consider retractable awnings.

Retractable awnings might cost a little money, but they can also pay homeowners back over the long haul. First and foremost, retractable awnings protect a patio from sunlight and ultraviolet rays in hot weather.

A retractable awning can also protect f r iends and family members should an unexpected summer shower appear or keep

them safe from sunburns during summer afternoons when the UV index is high.

When placed near a window, retractable awnings can lower energy bills. Such awnings can keep sunlight and ultraviolet rays from entering the home.

This lowers the temperature indoors, which reduces reli-ance on air conditioning units to maintain a comfortable temper-ature. These awnings can also extend the li fe of furniture, which tends to fade when placed inside windows that get heavy sun exposure.

Plant trees.

An eco-friendly way to maintain and add to a patio’s aesthetic appeal is to plant trees around the patio. Trees can protect the patio from sunlight and ult raviolet radiat ion whi le prov id ing some shade for friends and family members who wa nt to spend some quality time outdoors on hot afternoons. Trees may provide privacy for people sitt ing on the patio if the tree has low branches or if the patio is located beneath neighbors’ windows. In addition, trees can create a serene setting around a patio, adding to its relaxing nature.

Summer can be rough on patios and patio furniture. Homeowners can take several steps to protect their patios from wear and tear.


& Gift Shop

DONNA’SGREENHOUSES

Compost&Pro-Mix

OPEN 8 to 6 DAILYFor Your Gardening Needs!

OPEN 8 to 6 DAILYFor Your Gardening Needs!216 Ricker Rd., New Gloucester

3/4 mile beyond Good Shepherd Food Bank

926-3776Gift Certificates

Botanical

Interest

& ASL Seeds

Seed Starting Classes.Every Sundayin April, Inquire at

DONNA'S

www.donnasgreenhouse.com

Check Us OutOn Facebook

Little bit of paradise at home: Planning an outdoor oasisIf it’s time to start thinking about making improvements or addit ions to your home, outside may be the best place to begin. Exterior home additions and yard improvements are high on homeowners’ lists of projects, according to the Better Homes and Gardens 2011 Consumer Preference Survey.

Among the top ranking features people want in their homes are decks or patios (84 percent), and low-maintenance exteriors (79 percent). When it comes to the top ranking living spaces people want, outdoor grilling or living areas come in at 67 percent.

So whether you want to make some improvements for selling your home, or just to enjoy for yourself, the planning experts at Fiberon, makers of innovative composite decking, railing and fencing products, have some tips to help you plan the perfect outdoor oasis.

Define the space.

An outdoor room could be the entire yard, or just a small part of it. Think about the outdoor space as having walls, a ceiling and f looring, just like an indoor room. Walls are vertical elements that help

define a space, such as hedges, trees, latt ice screens, raised garden beds, railings, a gazebo or fence to frame your outdoor space.

Ceilings provide shelter and shade. Think of awnings, umbrel las and pergolas. Or use what’s naturally there, like the branches of a shade tree. Flooring could be the existing lawn, a mulched pathway or a created f loor such as a concrete or flagstone patio, or a deck.

Decide the elements.

Once you know where your oasis is going to be located, it’s time to figure out what needs to go in it. Here are some elements to consider:

Decking – A low-maintenance compos-ite deck adds versatility and beauty that you can customize to meet just about any need. And composite deck can pay off, too. Composite deck additions are among the projects that recoup the most of their cost upon home resale, according to the Remodeling Magazine 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report.

When planning a deck, don’t make the mistake of building one that’s too small.

Mark the area you want to use, then put your outdoor furniture in it to see if you have the space you need. Use an online planning tool to explore designs, materials, colors and accessories. Be sure to check on the local building codes and permits that may be needed before starting any construction.

Fire and food.

Use your outdoor room any time of day by planning a place to cook and eat. An outdoor kitchen can be as simple as a portable grill or as elaborate as your budget will allow. A DIY pizza oven can also be an enjoyable way to enjoy cooking outside with friends and family.

Fireplaces, fire pits and chimineas bring coziness along with great function – and they help extend the outdoor enjoyment in cooler weather.

Accessories.

Just like indoor rooms, outdoor rooms benefit from appropriate accessories.

Lighting – Landscape lighting, lanterns, candles or strings of white outdoor lights can all add beautiful ambience.

Sound – Add pleasing audio with outdoor stereo sound systems, trickling water features or even just simple wind chimes.

Color – Garden ar t , t ablescapes , container plant ings and fabric can put colorful finishing touches on your outdoor room.

To use a free, online Deck Designer, and to learn more about Fiberon outdoor products, visit www.fiberondecking.com. — Courtesy of Family Features.

A lawn that emanates green and a garden that’s home to succulent vegetables is desirable to homeowners across the country. Of course, such lawns and gardens take t ime and effort, and a host of factors will determine if a lawn and garden is somet h ing homeowners should be proud of or ashamed.

One such factor is soil health. Healthy soil delivers food and water to plants, allowing them to thrive and add an aesthetic appeal to homes. To maintain healthy soil, homeowners may consider the following tips.

• Get the soil tested. When addressing soil health, it’s best to first get the soil tested. A soil test will show which type of soil you have as well as its makeup and structure, and just how good or bad it currently is. Such tests can also reveal if the soil is missing a ny essent ia l nut r ient s . S ome soi l t e s t s c a n be conducted by novice green-

t hu mber s , wh i le o t her s are best lef t to the local agricultural bureau. These tests are a good investment, as t hey wi l l remove t he guesswork from fertilizing. Without a soi l test , many homeowners end up overdoing it when fertilizing, which can prove a costly mistake. Take a soil sample a few months before you plan to plant or landscape to give yourself enough time to apply the test’s recommendat ions to your lawn and garden.

• Avoid wet soil. When soil is wet, don’t walk or drive over it and keep the kids out of the yard. When wet soil is walked on or driven over, the soil gets packed down, pushing out air and making it more difficult and sometimes impossible for water to pass through the soil. That makes it hard for roots to grow. Gardeners who plan to plant this gardening season should wait for the soil to dry before planting.

• Use well-drained soil. Well-drained soil will dry fast and enable oxygen to reach the root zone, helping build stronger roots as a result. Plants with strong roots are more likely to survive severe weather.

• Use compost. Compost can prove very beneficial to soil health. Organic compost is typically loaded with nutrients that, upon maturity, feed the soil and promote soil health. Biodegradable items like grass clippings, leaves and even excess food like apple cores can strengthen the compost. Even worms, which break down compost quickly and add nutrients, can be a valuable addition to organic compost.

• Don’t bash bacteria. Bacteria is often seen as a formidable foe, but some bacteria can actually promote healthy soil. Bacter ia decompose plant matter, releasing the nutritive value into the soil, and can also break down chemical pesticides. So while bacteria

is bad more of ten than it’s beneficial, some bacteria are quite useful, particularly when it comes to healthy soil.

• Don’t be scared off by slime. Like bacteria, slime has a bad reputation. However, veteran gardeners understand that reputation isn’t warranted. Slime mold is ugly, and many new gardeners see it and instantly assume it’s bad for their garden. However, slime molds are good for the soil, helping break down dead wood and leaves. They might not add aesthetic appeal, but slime molds do serve a practical

and important purpose in maintaining healthy soil.

• Pests can be an ally to healthy soil. Some garden pests like mites, millipedes and centipedes are incorrectly assumed to be enemies of healthy soil. In fact, such pests can vastly improve soil health. Mites consume dead leaves and additional plant matter, enabling bacteria to more effectively release nutrients into the soil. Millipedes and centipedes are also beneficial to soil , as their droppings improve both the soil’s texture and fertility.


LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALSDistinctive Design with Imagination & Creativity

QUALITY WORKMANSHIPDedicated to Providing the Most Professional, Courteous

Landscaping Services to the Client

Celebratingour 35thyear of

LandscapingExcellence!

LANDSCAPE COMPANY•INC.78 Lisbon Street, Lisbon, ME 04250353-4848 • 1-800-675-4885www.davislandscape.com

� Landscape Design� Planting� Lawn Sprinkler Systems� Hardscaping

(Stone, Brick & Timber Work)� Seed & Sod Lawns� Ornamental Ponds

& Waterfalls

Voted Best Landscape Contractor in GreaterLewiston/Auburn 8 years running!

Our highestquality paint justgot better withpaint & primer

in one.

Fullcoverage.Half thetime.

$5 OFFEasyCare® Platinum

Paint & Primer In One

Valid Only At:

Handy True Value9 Depot Square

Mechanic Falls, ME 04256

Some restrictions may apply. See store for details. Coupon good for EasyCare

Products only.

Handy True Value9 Depot Square - Mechanic Falls, ME 04256

345-2091 Open Mon-Fri 7-5; Sat 8-5; Sun 9-1visitTrueValuePaint.com

www.hummingbirdfarm.net

HummingbirdFarm

202 Bean St. Turner, ME 04282

Open 8am to 6pm Daily Starting April 22nd

207-224-8220Gift Certificates Available

[email protected]

Clematis • Herbs • Geraniums

More Choices + More Knowledge =

Greater Success in Your Garden.

Opening April 22 for the Season

Soil solutions maintain healthy soil through the season


We Service All Brands Hours: M-F 8-5; Sat. 9-12

We’ve turned up some great deals!

TILLERSStarting at$59999

LAWN TRACTORSStarting at

$1,29999

MORE VALUE. MORE FEATURES. MORE SUPPORT.

Jordan Bridge Rd, Sabattus 375-4486 Open 9 to 5 Daily

JILLSON’S FARM7 VARIETIES OF HEIRLOOM TOMATO PLANTS

John Baer • New Yorker’s • GlamourEarly Girl • Beef Steak • Roma • Cherry

All Annuals Ready In May

35 DIFFERENT VARIETIES& COLORS OF PETUNIAS

PerennialsAlso

Available!

See us

for your

Memorial

Baskets Large selection of vegetableseedlings and annual flowers

Our Own Maple Products,Homemade Ice Cream, Jams,

Jellies, Pickles, Eggs,Garden Supplies & More!

ALSO

By Tresa Erickson Feature Writer

Topiary: Shaped to perfection

Have you ever passed by a house with two ball-like trees flanking the front door? Those ball-like trees are called topiaries, and it took several hours of careful shaping and pruning to create them. If you are interested in creating some topiaries for your landscape, read these tips.

People have been pruning plants into decorative shapes since ancient times. Today, there are many plants that are suited for shaping. Some of these include box woods , f uchsia , hol ly, hydrangeas, ivy and lantana.

In order to shape your plants, you need some l ightweight potting soil, a 3 1/2-inch pot, pruning shears, staking ties and water-soluble fertilizer. Follow these seven steps to create your own topiary:

1. Plant a rooted cutting in some lightweight soil and let grow.

2. Transplant the plant when fully rooted to a 3 1/2-inch pot. Prune side shoots to promote vertical growth.

3. Stake the plant with ties and put in the sun to grow for a couple of months.

4. Trim off the main vertical shoot of the plant when it reaches two feet and strip off the bottom two-thirds of the shoots.

5. Feed the plant a water-soluble fertilizer once a month and loosen the ties around it as it grows.

6. Remove the growing tips to maintain a full top and prune as necessary.

7. Repot t he plant when needed to keep it healthy.

If your plant does not have a central leader branch, you may use a wire topiary form to shape it. Simply put the form into the pot and fill around it with soil. Plant rooted cutt ings, wind individual strands around the topiary form and secure with twist ties. Put in the sun and let grow, fertilizing when needed. Remove the growing tips to keep the top full and prune and repot when necessary.

As your plant matures into a full-grown topiary, it will

require less and less main-tenance. All you will need to do to keep it looking nice is to prune it every couple of weeks, removing the ragged ends and tucking in the misplaced branches that may appear.

Topiaries are not that difficult to create, and they make wonderful additions to any landscape. Purchase the supplies and get started on yours today.

Natural fencing options for the yardA backyard can be a sanctuary for some people. It’s a place to which individuals can retreat, offering an extension of living space in the great outdoors. A natural fence can be an option that offers a bounty of benefits.

The purpose of a fence is to keep things in or out. Fences are often erected to serve as a barrier between properties and offer privacy. To achieve these goals, a homeowner doesn’t necessarily have to construct a wooden, plastic or wire fence. Many plants can ser ve as natural fencing options and be very attractive to look at.

Grasses

Consider t he fast-g rowing bamboo. It is one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet. Some varieties may grow as much as 50 inches per day. This tall, dense grass can be an inexpensive fencing option that quickly fills in on the perimeter of the yard. Just be sure to take inventory of the bamboo because it can spread quickly.

Trees

How about planting trees on the property? Evergreen trees, like Leyland Cyprus, may grow quickly. The dense foliage will quickly fill in and can create an attractive border around the house. But evergreens aren’t the only options.

Deciduous trees can also be planted. The thick leaves will

form a privacy screen and in the winter the leaves will drop and let light into the landscape.

Shrubs

Much in the same way that everg reen t rees can of fer privacy on a larger scale, so can shrubs. There are many dif ferent shrubs that can be grown as dense or thin as a homeow ner desi res . Rose bushes can look attractive and serve as a deterrent to animals and people trying to get through the thorny brambles.

The same can be said for holly bushes, which will be prickly but attractive with their shiny, dark green leaves and bright berries. Certain shrubs are even marketed as natural fencing. A chat with a landscaper can yield many ideas of species that make great fences.

Flowers and plants

Shrubs and trees aren’t the only fencing opt ions. Many homeowners like the cottage look of a ga rden f u l l of wildf lowers and other plants. Congregating certain plants on the perimeter of the property can make an informal fence.

Trai l ing v ines l ike ivy or vinca can be trained to climb vertically with the right support. A thin mesh material or vertical slats can be installed where needed and the vines tied to these items before they become fully established.


30 Highland Spring Rd., Lewiston(Next to Hannaford Supermarket)

312-5305

The ShopLawn & Garden Equipment Repair

Why buy new??Let us tune up and

fix your mower“It will be as good as new!”

Give It ALittle TLC

And Save Money!!Breezy Hill Farm & GreenhouseOpening Friday, May 6th for the 2011 Season

Annuals, Perennials, Hanging Baskets, Geraniums,Planters, Memorial Baskets, Vegetable Seedlings,

Herbs, Potting Service & Personal AttentionGift Certificates Available

Hours: Wed.-Sat. 9am-5pmSunday 9am-1pm

Directions:From Rte. 118 take the Greenwood Rd. & follow the signs

• Quality Northern Grown Plants • Trees, Shrubs,Perennials, Roses, Vines, Native Plants • Mulches -

Bulk & Bagged • Organic Lawn & Garden Products• Grass Seed • Fertilizers • Lime • Fountains • Birdbaths• Annual & Vegetable Seedlings • Hanging Plants • Herbs• Garden Supplies - Flower and Vegetable Seeds • Tools

Open HouseApril 29th, 30th & May 1st

Mon - Fri 8-5, Saturday 8-4, Sunday 9-4

• Designs - Installations & Maintenance• Lake Smart Contractor• Plantings - Lawns • Irrigation Systems• Patio - Walkways • Retaining Walls • Water Features

LANDSCAPE & NURSERY299 River Rd., Lewiston

783-9777Landscape - Nursery/Garden Center & Gift Shop

EST. 1969

Celebrating 21 Years

“All Your Pool & Spa Needs & More”

GRILLDEMO

255 Bethel Road, Route 26, West ParisSummer Hours Starts 4/1/11: Mon.-Fri. 10-6; Sat. 10-2

www.hilltoppoolsandspas.com

Dennis & Nancy Henderson (207) 674-3060

and Gifts

20% OffAllChemicalsOffer expiresApril 30, 2011

15th AnniversaryOpen House May 7

Sales & Service & Installation

Treeger Pellet Grill • Water DeliveryBioGuard® Water Testing & Chemicals

and Lots ofGive-A-Ways

and Sales

By Tresa Erickson Feature Writer

Got kids? Childproof your garden

A lot of kids run in and out of your home every day. Some are teenagers, and some are not. Some are so young, in fact, that you’ve started to think it would be a good idea to childproof your home. While you’re at it , you might want to childproof your garden. Here’s how.

Just like homes, gardens pose hazards to young children. To keep the kids around your home safe, follow these tips:

• Fence in all water features and water gardens.

• Store al l garden tools and chemicals in a locked cabinet out of the reach of children.

• Remove a l l poisonous or pr ick ly plant s f rom your garden, especially those with berries that may look edible but aren’t safe to eat.

• Get r id of plants, such as sunflowers and rosemary, that attract dangerous insects.

• Eliminate wasp or hornet nests around your home and garden.

In addition to following these t ips, take caution whenever working in your garden.

• I nsist t hat ch i ld ren st ay indoors while you work with large machines like tillers and put away your garden tools and chemicals after each use.

• Don’t leave tools in the yard where children could play with them and injure themselves.

• The same goes for chemicals. Make sure you wear gloves when handling chemicals and wash your hands afterward. Traces of chemicals could remain on your hands, and you don’t want to transfer those chemicals to food or any other item in the house.

Set up some rules about your garden and en force t hem. Show children where the play areas are and insist that they play there, not in your garden. Identify potential dangers like wasp nests and encourage children to tell you when they find such a danger and avoid it at all costs.

It may take some work, but childproofing your garden is essential to keep the children who run in and out of your home safe. Get started today.

Explain to children that they should

never eat anything they find outside

without the consent of an adult.


IMPROVE YOUR HOME WITH BEAUTIFUL STEPS!

ShawneeSteps by

AmericanConcreteIndustries

HandcraftedMaine-Made

Steps Since 1957

Call for aFREE On-Site

Estimateor Visit OurShowroom

1022 Minot Ave., Auburn, ME 04210784-1388 • 1-800-638-9000

shawneesteps.com

Steps for any look!

landscape & garden

Documents

available inventory

support available

available forrental

notbe available

dealer charge

monthly payments

lowrate financing

document preparation