morning journal - spring lawn & garden 2014

(Family Features) When the weatherconditions are just right, a relaxingevening spent on the porch or patio is per-fect for enjoying good company and thebeauty of the outside world. Wouldn’t it benice to enjoy these comforts regardless ofthe season?

Bring the rejuvenating, refreshing andcalming effects of nature into your person-al space with a few simple touches. The

best place for incorporating these organicelements is the space closest to your patioor outdoor space.

Let this area serve as a transitionalspace where the outside world connectswith the comforts of your interior.

Here are a few tips to make your out-side world an extension of your home:

• Choose Natural MaterialsFor chairs, sofas, rugs, pillows and oth-

er dÈcor, choose natural patterns, texturesand fibers. Pair materials like hemp, rat-tan, bamboo, wicker and jute, with softertextures, such as cottons, velvet andvelour for added dimension.

• Light Up the RoomNothing pleases the senses like natural

light, so be sure to rid windows and door-ways of heavy drapery and other barriers.Bring this beautiful resource inside byadding a retrofit folding patio door, such asthe JELD-WEN(r) W-4500, which usesfloor-supported technology for a simplerfit into an existing door opening.

• Choose Natural ColorsPick chairs, sofas, coffee tables and buf-

fet pieces that are white or ivory. Theselight colors will make the outdoor tints ofgreens, blues and browns pop. For thewoodsy look, choose faux bois upholstery,a textile pattern that mimics the grain ofwood.

• Spruce Up the ViewAdd trees or other lush landscapes to

serve as your focal point when you lookoutside. Attach window boxes and plantflowers and shrubbery in colors that com-plement your dÈcor. Add trees or otherlush landscapes to serve as your focalpoint when you look outside. Truly accessyour serene views with a wider expanseand with ease by adding a folding patiodoor, such as the JELD-WEN W-4500,which comes in a variety of different col-ors, finishes and is available in 2-, 3- or 4-panel configurations. For more informa-

tion on JELD-WEN windows and doors,visit www.jeld-wen.com.

• Add Natural Elements to DécorThe right decorative tchotchkes can

evoke the serenity of nature within yourspace. For a rustic look, add dried flowers,pinecones, rocks, wood and straw. For aseaside touch, use sea shells, starfish andjars of sand for a coastal inspiration. If youlack space to scatter throughout the room,place these items in a large decorativebowl and use as a centerpiece.

• Frame ItThe best way to incorporate your

favorite natural nuances is to photographit. Do you have photographs from that tripto the Grand Canyon or Glacier NationalPark? Display those beautiful memoriesand scenery. Dust off your favorite oldphotos and place them in neutral-tonedframes to set throughout the space.

2 • Morning Journal • Spring Lawn & Garden 2014 • Thursday, March 20, 2014

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Morning Journal • Spring Lawn & Garden 2014 • Thursday, March 20, 2014 • 3

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Gadgets and the great outdoors can co-exist(Family Features) Advancements in technology over the last decade have children

spending more time with gadgets and gizmos, and less time enjoying the great out-doors.

In fact, kids are now indoors up to 10 hours a day, according to the Joan Ganz CooneyCenter. But kids’ increasing use of technology and opportunities to appreciate MotherNature do not have to bemutually exclusive.

• The Importance of Outside PlayA new National Wildlife Federation (NWF) report shows that kids’ media habits can

both positively and negatively impact health, and provides real-world advice to help par-ents serve as positive role models and teach children to use technology in moderation.

“Kids need to be outside all year long, especially in the winter when days are shortand we’re all a little more cooped up than usual,” said Maureen Smith, chief marketingofficer for National Wildlife Federation.

“In addition to developing a deeper appreciation for the outdoors and the wildlifearound them no matter where they live, it helps them burn off energy, stay fit, and bementally focused for school, homework and all activities in their busy day.”

• Screen Time Plus Green TimeTechnology can be a valuable tool to help families balance the lure of screen time

with the importance of green time for kids. Today’s connected world enables children toexperience nature in ways never before imagined.

NWF’s report offers families these ideas for combining technology with the out-doors:

1. Rely on technology to plan or inspire outdoor adventures. This can include any-thing - from finding great nearby hiking trails to interactive, outdoor treasure hunts.

2. Keep a record of outdoor experiences with the help of electronic photos, videos oran electronic journal. They’ll love the ability to share their experiences with family andfriends.

3. When safe and practical, take hand-held devices outdoors to combine the best ofboth worlds (just remember to plan for some fully unplugged time outside, too).

4. Use tools such as Ubooly, an app-based learning toy that can turn a walk in thepark into an interactive experience with activities such as scavenger hunts, nature hikes,mindfulness games and plenty of exercise.

For other helpful resources and to learn more about NWF’s goal to get 10 millionmore kids spending regular time in the great outdoors visit www.BeOutThere.org.

Photo courtesy of Getty Images

(NAPS)—You can significantly reduce the time spent maintaining your property byemployingmodernmower technology.

Compared to older tractor-style mowers, modern mid-mount zero-turn riding mow-ers cut much faster, with enhanced maneuverability. This lets them be much more pro-ductive and versatile, as the “turn on a dime” handling means operators can trim closerto landscape features and deftly navigate around flowerbeds.

Instead of the traditional gearbox, a zero-turn rider uses a system of hydraulic pumpsand wheel motors to drive the mower forward and backward at variable speeds of up to10 miles per hour. The zero-turning radius is achieved with independent hydro motorson each drive wheel, which allow one wheel to run forward simultaneously as the otherruns in reverse. When combined with freely rotating caster wheels ahead of the cuttingdeck, the system allows for a zero-turning radius and a heightened level of control.

“For many folks, time is almost more valuable than money,” said Daryn Walters ofExmark Mfg. “The switch from a tractor-style mower to a mid-mount zero-turn riding

mower dramatically reduces the time it takes to care for the yard. Not only do usershave more time to do what they love, the unmatched cut quality delivers a professionallymaintained appearance.”

Walters noted that zero-turn riders are the dominant mower type for professionallandscape contractors and the virtues for which contractors choose the mowers are sim-ilar to those homeowners want.

In short, he said it’s about doingmore in less time.

“Their business is built on delivering a great cut quality, but to be profitable they needto do it as quickly as possible. This is where a mid-mount zero-turn rider shines.”

There are a number of considerations that factor into the ultimate value of the mower.Mower options including higher-horsepower engines, wider cutting decks and accesso-ry bagging systems are available.

Bigger isn’t always better, however, and it makes sense to choose an appropriate zero-turn mower for the property. When selecting a mid-mount zero-turn riding mower, con-sider overall size, landscaping and budget.

More guidelines on selecting the right mower for a property can be found atwww.exmark.com/NotSureWhatToBuy.aspx.


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(BPT) - People across the country are feeling the winter blues after an unusually coldand snowy winter. But with warmer weather arriving soon, you can create a feeling ofspring indoors and out with some simple do-it-yourself projects.

Roll up your sleeves and embrace the season of growth with these home and garden-ing tips:

* A fresh coat of paint is the perfect way to bring springtime indoors. Find inspirationfrom outdoor hues such as fun yellows, vibrant blues or a bright blend of pinks, orangesand reds. Start with an accent wall, which you can complete in just a few hours for under$50 with supplies from your local home improvement store.

* Spread the spring theme from your freshly painted walls into your outdoor gardens.Start now by planting seedlings indoors for delicious edible plants and beautiful, colorfulblooms you can enjoy all summer long. Lowe’s garden center offers regionally relevantplants and the tools necessary for potting, planting and transplanting seedlings into yourbackyard garden once spring arrives and the ground thaws. In the meantime, cherishthe beauty of your indoor garden as it reminds you of the warmweather on the way.

* As temperatures begin to warm, time to enjoy the outdoors is just around the cor-ner. Soon enough you’ll be relaxing with family and friends on your deck or in the back-yard around a fire pit. Take time now to get prepared for spring and summer days. Deco-rate and furnish your outdoor space with allen + roth patio furniture from Lowe’s. Frombistro sets perfect for enjoying breakfast to conversation sets that will make your guestslinger during longer days, you can create aspecialty look at affordable prices.

* Get a jumpstart on your landscapingprojects by removing traces of winter fromyour yard. As soon as the snow melts andthe ground thaws, pick up or mow leavesand fallen twigs, trim or prune the bushesand give your grass a professional look byedging along paved pathways. Kobalt offersall the tools you need in its new outdoorpower equipment line.

Launched this spring, the line includesseven cordless tools that all operate off asingle, interchangeable, 40-volt lithium ionbattery. The selection includes two pushlawn mowers, a chainsaw, pole saw, stringtrimmer and edger, blower and hedge trim-mer.

No need to wait for all the batteries torecharge - just switch them out from tool totool and you can spruce up the yard in notime.

Spring is calling with these simple,affordable DIY projects that are sure toleave the winter blues behind you. In aweekend or less, your home and backyardwill feel a sense of spring renewal that willprovide long hours of enjoyment formonths to come.


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(BPT) - It’s easy to dream of perfectly pristine outdoor spaces when looking at thedecks in magazines and online, but too often what we want and what we have don’t align.If your deck suffers from weathered wood, loose railings or dated balusters, you’re notalone. The good news is there are surprisingly simple ways to give your deck a faceliftand transform it into the outdoor oasis you want in as little as one weekend.

Consider these five ways you can update your deck and grow your real estate value:

1. Add or update post capsOne of the easiest ways to add a dash of design and even some color and light to

your deck is to update your post caps. If you currently have post caps, most can beremoved by gently tapping them with a mallet. Then it’s an easy DIY project to add newpost caps simply by using exterior construction adhesive. These decorative caps come ina variety of styles, including basic wood that can be stained to perfectly coordinate withyour existing color scheme. If you want to add a bit more pizzazz to your outdoor space,give your deck the Deckorators touch with classic copper post caps or solar poweredcaps that illuminate once the sun sets.

2. Replace balustersBalusters are connected to the railing vertically and provide an important safety fea-

ture. But they also add to the visual appeal of the deck and are a main feature in your lineof sight. If your wood balusters are worn, you can instantly upgrade your outdoor spacewith new options. Metal balusters, for example, come in a variety of designs to matchany home’s style - from contemporary to traditional. Have a stunning view from your

deck? Enjoy uninterrupted sight lines with glass balusters that simultaneously maintaina deck’s safety and visual appeal.

3. Bring back deck boardsAfter seasons of changing weather and lots of foot traffic, your wood deck boards

may be showing wear. Protect the integrity of the wood and refresh the look of your out-door space by cleaning deck boards and giving them a new coat of paint or stain. Startby scrubbing or power spraying off dirt and grime, and then let wood dry thoroughly.Next, use stain or paint made specifically for decks to help protect the wood from the ele-ments. Just as indoor paint transforms a room inside your home, new stain or paint onyour deck boards will make your outdoor area look new and refreshed, making you feellike you have a whole new outdoor area.

4. Refresh railingsWhen it comes to deck railings, there are endless options to match any style or price

point. You can go with an off-the-shelf product or customize one to fit your personaldesign aesthetic. For example, Deckorators co-extruded composite CXT railing is ultra-low maintenance and gives you the options to mix-and-match railings, posts, balustersand caps for a look that’s entirely your own. Not looking to do a full railing replacement?Sand down wood railings and apply a new coat of stain for an instant update.

5. Install lightingA great deck will serve as an extension of your home both day and night, but if you

don’t have proper lighting, you’ll be heading indoors once the sun goes down. Add visualappeal and an element of safety to your deck with easy DIY lighting options. Lighting onyour stairs adds a splash of drama and makes it easy to get around. Balusters are anoften-overlooked item that can provide a great lighting location too. Solar Baluster Lightsinstall around 3/4-inch round balusters with nothing more than a Phillips screwdriver.Finally, Solar Accent Lights can be placed on posts to illuminate pathways and deckedges. For more information, visit www.deckorators.com.


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(BPT) - Small lawns have many of the same needs and issues as larger lawns, butthey don’t always require the same bulky tools to get the job done. A smart arsenal forsmall lawn care includes some sturdy hand tools and a few small, but powerful, gadgets.If you’re looking to outfit your arsenal, consider these tools.

* Easy thatch dispatchers - Thatch is a natural protective layer of debris that forms inlawns at the soil level and helps retain soil moisture. But when thatch gets too thick, mat-ting to half an inch deep or more, it can prevent water, air and nutrients from reachinggrass roots. Thatch removal tools slice through and lift thatch. The push-powered,wheeled Combisystem Vertical Cutter by Gardena removes matted thatch and aeratesthe lawn soil at the same time. For those who prefer manual raking, there’s the sharp-bladed True Temper Thatch Rake.

* Lawn care at the flip of a switch - Small lawns need fertilizer and treatment forweeds just like large lawns. But a large awkward push spreader can be overkill for asmall lawn and take up valuable storage space in the garage. The new lightweight, hand-carried, battery-powered Ready2Go Spreader is specifically designed to make quickwork of small lawns, slopes and tight spaces. It comes pre-loaded with popular lawn careproducts from Preen, GreenView and Vigoro.

Each unit is pre-calibrated for its product so no further adjustments are ever needed.To use the spreader, just pick it up, flip the switch and walk to cover up to 2,500 squarefeet to fertilize or treat the lawn. To spiff up yards overrun with weeds including toughdandelions, try the Ready2Go Spreader with Preen Lawn Weed Control. For eco-friendlyspring lawn feeding, the Ready2Go Spreader with GreenView Lawn Food offers quickgreen up plus controlled nutrient release over eight weeks. Each unit is refillable,reusable, and its pre-installed AA batteries are replaceable. After use, store the compact,portable tool on a shelf, with no space lost in the garage or shed.

* Water the lawn, not the living room - For a lawn, water ranks with sunlight in termsof importance. For a small lawn, often nestled up close to the house and open summerwindows, putting water only where it’s wanted is desirable. The Dramm Colorstorm 9-Pattern Turret Sprinkler has adjustable directional sprays in nine different patterns towater small lawns evenly. Durable and efficient, it gives the lawn the good, deep soakingit needs, while leaving the living room curtains dry and blowing in the summer breeze.

* Keep the lawn in fighting trim - Mowing a lawn regularly is more than aesthetic:keeping grass at the right length, between two-to-four inches, helps grass develop strongroots. The Black and Decker 19-inch cordless electric mulching mower is designed forsmall lawns. It not only makes it easy to keep the lawn mowed to the correct height, itchops up clippings so they decompose easily, discouraging thatch buildup.

* Give a small lawn an edge - By their nature, small lawns are often viewed up closeand personal. Edged lawns not only look nice, they help keep garden weeds out of thelawn and vice versa. But edging by hand is hard work. The GreenWorks 12 Amp CordedEdger is sturdy, lightweight, easy to maneuver and ideally suited to creating crisp tidyedges in turf along borders of walkways, driveways, paths and garden or landscapebeds.

With only a connecting cord of its own, attach the edger to the grounded outdoor-rat-ed extension cord of choice, up to 50-feet. For those who prefer a manual edging solu-tion, choose an edging tool with a sturdy handle and a strong hand-forged cutting edgesuch as the English-made Clarington Edging Knife.

These are tools that get the job done and done quickly, keeping small lawns trim, tidyand naturally strengthened to fend off weeds. They’re also compact and easy to storeand keep until next needed, a boon where storage spaces are also smaller with no roomto spare.


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Living an organiclifestyle is easy

(NAPS)—Living an organic lifestyle notonly offers something to people of all ages,it can be achieved in the kitchen, gardenor even during an outdoor activity.

Here are a few simple tips to start livingan organic lifestyle:

1. Take small steps—Take the first stepwith your staple shopping ingredients.Consider replacing conventional productsone by one with organic alternatives.Make foods like fruits, vegetables, milkand meat your first priority.

2. Grow an organic garden—Why notgrow your own organic vegetables andherbs? Plants like tomatoes, peppers,onions, potatoes and cucumbers are easyto grow and can be easily maintained on arooftop or patio garden. Plus, it’s a greatway to teach kids where food comes from

and how it grows.

3. Read the labels—Look for productswith the “Certified USDA Organic” sealand read labels carefully to check out themain ingredients and any additives thatmay be included. The first ingredients list-ed should be common names and easy topronounce.

4. Pack an organic lunchbox—Sendyour kids off to school each morning witha delicious, organic lunch. For example,Santa Cruz Organic® Peanut Butters andFruit Spreads offer a variety of options andflavors to keep kids excited at lunchtime.To help round it out, the company’s FruitSauces are a tasty, organic treat, with each4-ounce sauce cup providing 100 percentof the Reference Daily Intake (RDI) of vita-min C.


(BPT) - One of the first questions new empty nesters face is: what do we do with thenest? Some are eager to downsize and sell. Others like where they live and choose tostay put.

No matter the decision, the property, new or old, is likely in for a makeover aimed atmaking routine upkeep more manageable. One of the key areas to tackle is the yard andgarden. The following are tips for transforming a yard’s maintenance-hungry features,especially the lawn, into alternatives that offer fun and functionality without the fuss.

* Create no mow zones - The lawn is often a yard’s highest maintenance feature. Onesimple way to reduce lawn maintenance is to strategically stop mowing certain parts ofthe yard, while continuing to maintain more desirable areas. Un-mowed areas needn’tlook messy. Delineate the divide between mowed lawn and wilder spaces with a strategi-cally placed stone wall or wooden fence. Adding clusters of ornamental grasses orshrubs along the new lawn’s edge also works to soften the border transition. For a bit offun, sow some un-mown areas with wildflower seeds. Add green trails for impromptustrolls or heart-pumping walks by cutting a circular path through the no-mow zone. Postbirdhouses or feeders along the route for bird watching.

* Swap some turf for landscape beds - Freestanding landscape islands of trees,shrubs, bulbs and perennials are appealing low-maintenance features that can reducelawn area. Landscape beds are also a solution for difficult to maintain stretches like steepslopes, rough terrain and curbside strips. It’s important to cover exposed soil with mulchto stop weeds from growing. To go from low to practically no maintenance, sprinkle aweed preventer like Preen on top of mulch to stop weed seeds in the mulch itself fromsprouting. Better yet, use Preen Mulch Plus, a premium bagged mulch with added weedpreventers already mixed in. Available at Lowe’s stores and independent garden centers,it’s guaranteed to prevent more than 100 types of tough weeds, including dandelions, forup to six months.

* Switch to lawn care “lite” - With less lawn why hang on to over-sized lawn careequipment? Today there are new compact choices scaled to yards under 1/4 acre includ-ing cordless electric mulching mowers, battery-powered edgers and programmabledirectional lawn sprinklers. There’s also a new spreader designed for small lawns, slopesand tight spaces that’s ergonomic too. The Ready2Go Spreader is a lightweight, hand-carried and battery-powered unit that comes pre-loaded with popular lawn productsfrom Preen, Greenview or Vigoro to feed or treat up to 2,500 square feet. Each is refill-able and pre-calibrated, so no settings are ever needed.

* Deck the yard for fun and folly. Converting open spaces to outdoor entertainingareas is another way to reduce yard maintenance. Paved patios and decks make perfectplaces to sit, barbecue, dine or simply enjoy being outdoors. New composite decking,bricks and paving stones are definitely low upkeep installations. Other ideas include firepits, outdoor fireplaces, gravel paths and terraces. Don’t just look at spots close to thehouse: come up with reasons to hang out in different parts of the yard.

* Uncontained enthusiasm for containers - Downsizing elaborate garden beds isanother area to explore. But don’t give up seasonal flowers: plant in containers. A boom-ing trend among boomers, container plantings add accent color and seasonal drama todecks, patios, paths and other outdoor spaces. For lower maintenance choose fewer butbigger pots. Just a few large containers of colorful plants will have a major impact.

They also retain soil moisture better than smaller pots and need watering less often.Except in coldest areas, large frost-resistant resin or fiberglass containers can be left outyear-round. For long-term plantings, check plant labels for USDA winter hardinesszones. Potted plants are more exposed to the elements, so choose ones rated one zonecolder than usual.

No-fuss, low-maintenance yards for empty nesters

Life in an empty nest can be a time of rediscovery. Reducing lawn and gar-den upkeep is one way boomers can free up time for other more entertain-ing pursuits.

(BPT) - Americans across the country are taking strides to be more self reliant,including growing food, composting and raising animals. From barn to backyard, raisingchickens is the perfect example of how this momentum is building. Just a decade agoyou may have only seen chickens while driving through rural areas, but today coopsseem to be popping up everywhere in suburban and city neighborhoods.

Why consider raising chickens? It’s not necessary to have a farming background inorder to raise a small flock of poultry. Chickens are inexpensive to house and feed, man-aging their care is surprisingly simple, and raising them is a great family-friendly activity.

Chickens in return supply nutritious, tasty eggs that are always more fresh than theirgrocery store counterparts, plus you can use their waste to create organic compost, aninvaluable fertilizer for your garden.

1. Check with your cityVerify the local chicken laws and ordinances in the city where you live, plus check

with your homeowner’s association if you have one. It’s a good idea to make your neigh-bors aware of your plans, especially if you live in close proximity.

2. Start in the springEvery spring chicks appear at Tractor Supply stores for purchase. Chick Days is an

annual spring event when you can purchase baby chicks and ducklings to start yourown flock or simply visit the store to learn about backyard chickens. By working with areputable vendor, you’ll ensure you get quality, healthy chicks. Learn more at

www.tractorsupply.com/chicks. Keep in mind baby chicks need special care - such as awarm space and special chick feed - until they feather out and can be moved into a coop.

3. Get a coop or henhouseYou’ll need some basic supplies in order to keep your chicks healthy so they can

grow and produce eggs. Start with a secure coop that provides protection from theweather as well as from predators. Make sure it is properly ventilated but does not let inmoisture which can make your chickens ill. You’ll also need a perch to encourage roost-ing in the henhouse. A chicken’s natural instinct is to roost on limbs at night, so a perch -such as a wooden ladder - encourages them to do so inside instead of out.

4. Stock supplies to encourage egg layingDepending on the breed, hens typically lay eggs once every day through spring and

summer, and sometimes into fall. Hens need 12 to 14 hours of daylight to stimulate eggproduction, so adding a few hours of light as days shorten in fall will help extend the lay-ing season. In addition to the light, you’ll need plenty of nutritious feed and a continuoussupply of water. Chickens can eat some table scraps, including bread, cooked meats,fruits and vegetables. You’ll also need wood shavings for litter and cushioning nestingboxes.

The best way to ensure you start your flock correctly is to talk with people who areexperienced in raising chickens. Your community may have groups focused on selfreliance and green living, or you may want to visit your local Tractor Supply store tospeak directly to the experts who work there. No matter what, keep motivated in yourefforts - raising chickens, growing food and living independently is a rewarding lifestylefor the entire family whether you live in the city or country.


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Our Lawn & Garden Area Is Fully Stocked... Come See What’s New!!

Walmart Plaza 2875 E. State St. Salem, Ohio 330-337-8313 Walmart Plaza 16280 Dresden Ave. Calcutta, Ohio 330-386-4002

ROGER’S MILL, ROGER’S MILL, INC. INC.

HANOVERTON HANOVERTON FEED FEED

Depot St. (Rt. 7) In Rogers Depot St. (Rt. 7) In Rogers 330-227-3214 330-227-3214

29946 St. Rt. 30 29946 St. Rt. 30 330-223-1300 330-223-1300

Open Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm • Saturdays 8am to 12 noon Open Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm • Saturdays 8am to 12 noon CHECK US OUT CHECK US OUT

SPRING IS HERE!! SPRING IS HERE!! SPRING IS HERE!! GARDEN SUPPLIES: Onion Sets • Seed Potatoes

LAWN SUPPLIES: Grass Seed • Straw • Lawn & Garden Fertilizer • Lime Horse, Cow, Pig, Chicken, Dog, Rabbit, Cat, Wild Bird Feed, Salt Blocks, & More!

330-227-3952 330-227-3953 fax

9676 State Route 7 • PO Box 271 • Rogers, Ohio

Elkrun Industries C&D Landfill Elkrun Roll Off Service

Mon- Fri. 6:00am - 3:30pm

10-30 Yard C ontainers

Chicken coops are at the heart of self-reliance


Starting your garden indoors(BPT) - While cooler temperatures slowly fade, gar-

deners across the country eagerly await the arrival ofspring - and the chance to get outdoors and grow some-thing. If gardening is your passion, you don’t have to waituntil the weather is perfect to get started.

Starting your own seedlings offers many advantages,including the ability to get a jump-start on spring planting.Growing your own plants from seed is less expensivethan buying small plants and provides access to a muchwider variety of plants. The pros at Porch.com offer thesetips for starting seedlings to get your garden growing:

* Selecting seeds

Some seeds can be planted and started indoors, whileothers need to go directly in the ground outdoors. Asyou’re choosing seeds for your garden, read the packetsthoroughly to ensure the seeds you’re buying are appro-priate for indoor planting. Be aware that many vegetableseeds need to be planted directly in the ground.

Most packages will also include information on whattime of year to plant, so follow the guidelines for bestresults. In general, start seeds about six weeks before the

last frost date. Check the Farmer’s Almanac Frost DateCalculator to find out when that is in your area.

* Choosing containers

Seed starter kits are available for easy planting, butany container will do as long as it is about 2 to 3 inchesdeep and has drainage holes. Egg cartons and paper cupsare inexpensive and easy options; be sure to pokedrainage holes in the bottoms. Fill your containers with agood soil mix - never use regular soil from your yard.Seeds need just the right texture and mixture of nutrientsto succeed. Covering your containers with plastic wrap orplastic lids will help keep soil and seeds moist.

* Setting the environment

In order to germinate, most seeds need a steady tem-perature of about 78 F. You can create localized warmthfor seeds through use of electric heaters or heat matsplaced under containers. You can also try placing contain-ers atop warm appliances, such as a refrigerator, as longas they will also receive ample light in the location. Onceseedlings push through the soil, you can move them to a

windowsill where they’ll get more natural light.

* Caring for seedlings

It’s important to provide seedlings with constant mois-ture, but don’t let the soil get soggy. If you used plasticwrap or covers, remove them from containers once seedshave sprouted. When leaves appear, begin fertilizing witha liquid fertilizer. Pay close attention to the dosageamounts recommended on the fertilizer packaging;seedlings are fragile. Check on seedlings daily untilyou’re ready to plant them outdoors.

Of course, not everyone with the urge to grow a gar-den has the time to invest or the green thumb to achieveit. If you find yourself lacking the resources to plant andcare for seedlings, Porch.com has plenty of professionalswho can help you get - and keep - your garden growing.

“The hardest part of planting seeds indoors is caringfor them before they are transplanted,”-Brockelbank says.“Once they are transplanted, the plants should be verylow maintenance.”


49290 STATE RTE 14 • EAST PALESTINE, OH 44413

330-426-2166 www.elderequipment.com

49290 STATE RTE 14 • EAST PALESTINE, OH 44413 330-426-2166

morning journal - spring lawn & garden 2014

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