Tag Archives: Yard

Simple Tips for a Stunning First Impression

Posted on by

Simple Tips for a Stunning First ImpressionThey say, “you never get a second chance to make a good impression”, and when it comes to your home, curb appeal is the key to making a lasting one. Enhancing the exterior of your house not only adds value but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for both you and your guests.

Here are some simple yet effective tips that will help transform your home’s exterior and make it the envy of the neighborhood.

Begin with a Welcoming Entrance: The front door is the gateway to your home, and a fresh coat of paint can do wonders to revitalize its appearance. Consider selecting a color that complements your home’s style and personality. Don’t shy away from bold choices that create a statement.

Revitalize the Exterior: The exterior walls of your house may benefit from a thorough cleaning or a fresh coat of paint. Pressure washing can remove dirt, grime, and stains, making your home look instantly refreshed. If you’re painting, choose a color scheme that harmonizes with the surroundings while accentuating architectural features. Take the time to inspect your home’s siding or brickwork for any necessary repairs, as addressing these issues promptly prevents further deterioration.

Beautiful Landscaping: A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed landscape can make a significant difference in your home’s curb appeal. Start by trimming overgrown shrubs and trees, removing weeds, and adding fresh mulch to flower beds. Incorporate a variety of plants that thrive in your climate, ensuring year-round color and texture. Consider planting flowers, installing window boxes, or hanging baskets to bring vibrancy to your windows and walls.

Upgrade Outdoor Lighting: Outdoor lighting not only enhances safety but also creates an inviting ambiance. Illuminate your pathways, porch, and landscaping with stylish light fixtures that match the architectural style of your home. Consider installing solar-powered lights to save energy and reduce maintenance. Strategically placed lighting can highlight focal points, such as trees or architectural details.

Pay Attention to Small Details: Don’t underestimate the impact of small details when it comes to enhancing your home’s curb appeal. Replace worn-out house numbers, doorbells, and mailbox to give your home a polished look. Upgrade your front porch furniture or add decorative elements like outdoor artwork or a porch swing to create an inviting space. Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clean and in good condition, and consider adding window shutters or freshening up their paint.

Remember, the key to improving curb appeal is to create a visually appealing and well-maintained exterior. By implementing these tips and putting in some effort, you can significantly enhance the curb appeal of your property.

Your November Gardening Task List

Posted on by

November gardening listFor homeowners who keep a garden, with the change of seasons comes a task list.

There are basic tasks for gardeners — for example, raking the leaves, sharpening your tools. And, there are advanced tasks, too, which includes identifying and removing plants and trees which may be dead, and covering compost to prevent rain storms from leaching nutrients.

For homeowners in frost-free areas, November is a good time to plant roses and azaleas; prune flowering trees; and, start your fall vegetable garden.

The cooler fall and winter months are terrific for leafy greens such as spinach and kale; and carrots. Protect plants with row covers, when necessary.

For homeowners in colder parts of the county, November is when you should circle evergreens with burlap and wrap the bottoms of young trees with mesh wire to protect from wildlife; and empty and roll up garden hoses for storage.

It’s also when bulbs should be planted. Tulips, crocuses and hyacinths are easy to plant and will welcome you come springtime.

For all homeowners, consider this list : 

  • Aerate lawns to improve root development and drainage
  • Check and clean gutters from fallen leaves, needles, and twigs
  • Perform a round of weeding

And then, to discourage weed growth throughout the winter, place down a pre-emergent, and mulch around bedding plants, shrubs, and trees.

If your temperatures in your area tend to go below freezing, be aware of your plants which are sensitive to de-icing salts. Consider buying sand or sawdust for traction purposes near these plantings instead.

Lastly, remember that the fall months are a terrific time to take note of what worked in your garden during the summer, and what didn’t. Use a notebook and put your findings to paper. Attention paid now will pay dividends next spring.