Propane is useful and has been so for a long time, many campers use propane daily. Many have been doing so for years. Propane is one of the all time greats for alternative heating. Many people use it as a source of garage heating. Propane heaters are becoming increasingly popular for use while heating a home.

If you have never seen a propane heater you may wonder, what one is? These heaters range in style and design. However, their fuel comes from using tanks of propane gas. You can choose from large to small cylinders as well as those large propane tanks that set out on the lawn. A large propane fueling truck brings fuel to homes that are entirely propane dependent on using large outside tanks.

Propane gas comes in liquid form known as Liquefied Petroleum Gas or LPG. A wonderful alternative fuel that is environmentally friendly. It is non-toxic; it will not pollute soil or water.

You can move some portable propane heaters from one room to another when you want to heat a different area of your home. Some are portable enough to move them where you need them, when you need them. There are other moderate sizes in units such as wall-mount propane heaters. You may also choose from stand along units that can heat any room you use it in on a continual basis.

Some homes are fully dependant on propane as their in-home heating source. Propane is less expensive than other means of heating; it is a clean burning fuel. It is useful in many areas and makes a great heating alternative than many others.

The upside of the propane heater is that the fuel is fairly readily available and there are less likely to be, again this is a blanket statement and not area specific, shortages in the fuel. If you use portable units the fuel cans can be refueled at many service stations, hardware store the small single use containers can be purchased most anywhere that sells camping supplies. So you can get the fuel most anywhere. It is also generally less expensive and cleaner to use.

The negative side of the propane debate is fueled, if you’d pardon the pun, by the fact that if you do not keep your area properly ventilated, you run the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is important that you match the size and type of the unit to its projected job. In other words, do not us a heater designed for outdoors in the living room and make sure the unit is the right size for the area that you are heating.

They can be purchased in almost any place that sells outdoor gear, camping supplies and such. Even the bid Super Centers are a good choice when looking to buy. To sum thing up, if you are looking for a great portable way to heat an area and want to be environmentally conscious, then propane heat is an option to consider.

In The Greenhouse

If you great pleasure in amazing your friends with big named plants, here is a good one for you - Graptopetalum paraguayense - and it makes an excellent house plant. It has succulent rosettes of leaves which are colored in shades of icy gray. If grown outdoors in the summer time in full sunlight, tones of rose are added to the grays. This plant is hardy only in the far South, in other areas it must spend the winter months indoors. A south window is to its liking… give it a menu of plenty of sunlight, a gritty soil and little moisture,

Each little leaflet will root easily if it so much as touches the soil, and in time a new little rosette of leaves will appear at its base.

The word philodendron was a tongue twister to all but the gardening experts years ago. Now this large family of plants of various shapes and sizes is widely grown. Some of the varieties grow so rapidly as to make them impossible for use in a small house plant collection… but there is one variety which will prove to be a delight to any window gardener. It is Philodendron scandens.

Its satiny green leaves have an overcast effect of reddish brown, no doubt resulting from the reddish undersides of the leaves. The leaves are small and heart shaped, not more than two inches wide and three inches long to the end of the long, narrow tip. The plant is slow growing. Give it enough sunlight to keep good color in the leaves, and to keep the stem from growing too fragile. Its soil should be rich, but loose and fast draining.

The prayer, or rabbit track plant, is a favorite for the shaded window garden. The commonly grown prayer plant is Maranta leuconeura variety Kerchoveana. It is called the prayer plant because the leaves fold upward at night like hands in supplication. The beautiful green leaves have bold markings of chocolate brown which remind one of a rabbits track. While it does have a small white blossom, it is very insignificant in comparison with the beauty of the foliage. A moist, porous soil, and a very light location (but not direct sun) on the window sill will create a happy home for this plant.

Marantas do not seem to take regular rest periods, but there are times when the leaves lose their bright coloring, and the plant dies down slowly to the roots. There seems to be no life left, and at this time the plant should be placed in a dark, and if possible, a cool location. Unaided, it will start new growth, but usually after a rest of several weeks. Keep its soil ever so slightly moist during this rest period.

There is something restful in a leaf combination of green and white, whether spotted, splotched, striped or marginal. In the summer time many Hower arrangements are given character by the addition of striped grasses. For winter time, St. Augustine Grass can be grown as a pot plant on the window sill, or in a hanging basket, and cut for arrangements. Botanically it is known as Stenotaphrum woundatum variety variegatum. It grows rapidly and in any exposure.

Buxus argenteo-marginata is a member of the box family of evergreen shrubs. It makes a useful house plant, and greenhouse growers find it especially worthwhile. This shrubby plant has tiny leaves edged with white, and at times at the terminal of each branch a solitary small white blossom appears. It may be missed, for its size is in scale with the size of the leaves.

Occasional pruning is necessary to keep the branches under control. It grows nicely without sun, is not particular as to soil, but does require enough water to keep the soil moist, not wet.

Outdoor plantings of plants with oddly colored leaves sometimes become confused and the individual beauty of a many-colored or oddly shaped leaf becomes lost. Foliage with unusual markings is at its best advantage in the window garden where plants are seen at close range. One of my favorite plants of this type is the begonia Dancing Girl.

Dancing Girl is of the angel wing group of begonias, and it grows into a compact, medium sized plant, ideal as a window sill plant or for home greenhouse. Individual leaves of this plant have little in common all of them are sharply pointed, but there the similarity ends. No two seem to be alike. Some are fluted, others almost flat. The greatest variation is in the silver markings on the leaves. There are dots and splotches of silver”"some leaves are green with silver markings, and others are silver with green veins.

I grow this begonia in a sunny south window during the winter months, and when the sun becomes hot, I move it to an east window where there is v some shade provided by a thin curtain. Begonias like a spongy soil that is rich in organic matter. I use a mixture of clean, sharp sand, coarse peat moss, good garden loam, and well rotted leaf mold. These are mixed in equal parts, except I like to add an extra bit of leaf mold.

Dancing Girl has bright red flowers which come freely during late winter and spring. It can be summered out” doors in a protected, shaded place.

As long as there is a stove in a kitchen, there is a very high chance that you will find a range hood as well. Range hoods are essential in ensuring that a kitchen is well ventilated, as there can be a lot of smoke and fumes that are emitted during the course of cooking. Also, these fumes and odors can also leak into the rest of the house or building, which is normally prevented by having a range hood.

It is because of these reasons, that range hoods have become a vital component of any well-designed kitchen. Having a range hood in the kitchen gives the individuals who are cooking, a certain level of comfort needed in order to cook for long periods of time.

Today, you will be able to find a wide assortment of range hoods available in different stores selling kitchen equipment today. There are some range hoods that can be installed without the use of any ventilation ducts being connected to it, and even range hoods that are made of specially selected stainless steel. Apart from these types of range hoods, there are also countless range hood designs and colors, which is why finding a range hood that suits the overall look of your kitchen should be easy.

Upon shopping for the particular range hood that you are looking for, you will come to realize that all range hoods are categorized into two main types of hoods. The first type is the ducted range hood, and the other, is the ductless range hood. Deciding which type of range hood to install will be very important, as they both have very different operational requirements.

Ducted hoods always need a ventilation duct in order to direct the unwanted fumes away from the kitchen, and into an open environment like the garden, or the backyard. Because it uses a duct, the fumes are very well dissipated. But if you do not have the space to install the ventilation duct, a ducted range hood will be very hard to install.

However, for ductless range hoods, you will find that these range hoods are extremely easy to install, as they do not need to be connected to an external ventilation duct. The only requirement for these range hoods to operate is an electrical socket that powers the ventilation fans. These ventilation fans help to blow the air back into a certain area of the room, thereby isolating all the intended kitchen fumes.

Despite the ease of installing a ductless range hoods, they are often considered to be very inefficient. However, there are certain circumstances that might leave an individual without a choice, but to use a ductless range hood. This often happens when you do not have enough space in the kitchen for a ducted range hood, or if the design and layout of the kitchen does not suit traditional range hoods that require a ventilation duct.

Now that you have understood the key differences between a ducted and a ductless range hood, you should weigh the differences and consider your own personal requirements. After which, you should be able to make a good decision regarding your range hood.

Greenhouse Checklist for APRIL

Tulbaghia vinlacea is a bulbous, evergreen plant that is practically everblooming. Its star-shaped, bright lilac flowers borne in umbels of eight to 16 flowers, and completely simple culture, make it a valuable plant for every pot plant gardener. You may order divisions of this tulbaghia from a dealer in rare bulbs.

Amaryllis which have not already bloomed this winter may have buds now. Keep them in active growth. Every four big, strapping leaves should store up a bud sheath in the bulb for next season. They should be warm (70-80 degrees), well-fed and grown in a sunny place.

Wax begonia seedlings started in February should be potted now.

Anemnne coronaria makes a beautiful greenhouse plant. For the best blossoms grown, sow seeds now, When the plants are large enough, transplant to deep pots.

Procure the best tuberose bulbs available and pot two or three of them in a 5 inch pot. The delightfully scented Flowers make them worthwhile for the greenhousel

Vegetables and annuals should be well on their way for use in outdoor planting during the next two months. Some gardeners have tomatoes and sweet peppers to blooming size by the time the weather is warm enough for them to go outdoors. Smaller plants have a point in their favor because they will adjust to the outdoor weather much faster than large plants.

If space is available, try planting a few lima beans in pots for an early start. Plant one bean to a three-inch pot. Do likewise with cucumbers and cantalonpes, except in a two-inch pot.

Despite this being a busy season for gardeners, if you have the slightest notion of adding a greenhouse to your landscape or gardening projects this year, it is time to do research. Write for catalogs from greenhouse makers, and study the books available. Be sure to talk to other gardeners who have home greenhouses - theyll tell you many things theyre glad they did when they built, and theyll also give you handy hints about “the next time I build a greenhouse to add to my backyard designs, I’ll do it this way…”

Easter Sunday afternoon is a good time to hold open house for your greenhouse. Plants should be at their best at this time of the year. If seedlings and young plants have your structure too crowded, move a few blooming plants into your house for the afternoon. Invite your friends, and be sure that garden. club members, and others who might be interested, are invited to come and “get acquainted.,” and to talk about home greenhouse gardening.

Does your yard crunch under your feet in the summer? Is it covered in pesky weeds like dandelions and onions - or even worse, the prickly grass? Do you ever look longingly at the lush green grass in your neighbors yard and wonder how they maintain their lawns? Do you wish that you could feel that luscious grass under your bare feet? It is not impossible! You too can create your own green lawn.

Not only will improving your lawn give you a feeling of pride in your home, but getting your lawn in good condition can also increase your homes value by up to 10-15%. Now thats a reason to get started! Here are a few steps to help. Turning your lawn from dirt to lush grass is an ongoing process, but the benefits are well worth it.

One essential thing to do before getting started is to get all the products and tools that you are going to need to do your garden overhaul. You can pick out any items that you may need conveniently at TractorSupply.com. You can also visit their site to find a plethora of seeds, fertilizers, and products to assist in the gardening process. For this project, you will definitely need an aerator, spreader, and weed puller as well as grass seeds and fertilizer specialized for growing in your area. Online shopping is the best place to compare the types and costs of a multitude of products, including a quality mower.

The following suggestions are things you should keep in mind when getting your garden up to par:

For encouraging a stronger lawn, keep your mower set at the highest setting. This tall grass is healthier, and will shade weeds so they can’t grow. It also encourages deeper roots and cooler soil, which will help establish drought resistance in your grass. A mulching mower will also work best to keep your grass growing healthy. It may be tempting to cut your grass as short as you can so you can skip a few days in between, but in the long run you are making more work for yourself.

When watering your lawn, make sure to water DEEP and INFREQUENTLY. Make sure that you have a quality sprinkler system that will reach your lawn and wont get too much spill off or water just a section at a time. You dont need to have the sprinkler going every day, rather run it longer over more spaced out dates. This also is to establish roots and drought resistance.

If you are going to use fertilizers, make sure that you fertilize during the fall season. If you fertilize too often, you end up promoting rapid growth. This may sound like a great thing, but it actually makes the grass more likely to be attacked by disease and insects. Along with that, do not use lots of pesticides on your lawn. These will likely kill good things that keep the soil aerated. When growing a healthy lawn, you ultimately will not need any pesticides.

Why fertilize in the fall? Because the grass itself is dormant, they will not draw from the fertilizer, but the roots will benefit. This works to make your lawn well established where it counts the most.

Do not waste another summer with a yard that you are unhappy with. Go to Tractor Supply and get everything that you need to get started. You will have a better summer and once you have an established a great looking yard, it is simply maintenance after that!

Out West April starts the first flurry of outdoor garden activities to be evident this month. The winter snows are receding and the soil is warming and mellowing with the advent of spring. Seeds of cool season kinds of vegetables and hardy annuals can be sown out of doors as soon as the ground can be worked. Vegetables will include radishes, both head and leaf lettuce, carrots, onions, peas, spinach, beets and chard.

An early setting out of cabbage transplants of an early variety will ensure heads for table use the first part of July or sooner, depending on the area. However, delay the main planting of cabbage for a little later. An early start on onions will ensure maturity of bulbs by fall. However, use varieties recommended for the area. In short growing season areas it is best to use well grown onion transplants of adapted varieties. In many areas adapted hybrid varieties of onions have performed outstandingly well.

Plant Peas Early

Early sowing of pea seeds is mandatory especially in areas where summer weather is very hot. Fusarium root rot diseases are especially troublesome with peas and attacks are most troublesome during the warmest part of the summer. Rotation of peas with other garden crops each year helps to reduce the build up of fusarium organisms. Treating the seed with a protectant aids in increasing germination. Having the vines grow and produce their crop before hot weather is a great help in reducing trouble from this disease. Using an early variety is also desirable.

With some of the other crops such as radish, lettuce, spinach, and carrots it is desirable to make successive sowings at two to three week intervals to ensure a long period of harvest. With beets and carrots, the later sowing will offer younger, more tender roots for storage. In this case, plan to make somewhat more extensive seedings at the later dates. Carrot seed is frequently difficult to germinate and the young seedlings grow very slowly.

To aid in cultivation, mix a little radish seed with carrot to help mark the rows until the carrot plants show up. Parsnip seed can be handled in a similar manner. Make sure a smooth, mellow, even seedbed is prepared for carrots”this will assist in germination. Also keep the seedbed moist at all times. Be certain to use fresh seed.

Getting Soil Ready

Careful preparation of the soil beforehand will aid in the success of the garden. If the soil is on the heavy side, and contains considerable clay, it is important not to work it while it is too wet. If worked too early, it stays in hard, lumpy, cloddy condition all through the growing season. Generally it is best to plow heavy soils in the fall and leave them through the winter in rough condition leaving them to the action of frost through the winter.

When spring arrives, all that is needed is harrowing or raking as soon as the ground is dry enough to work. The harrowing or raking will put the soil in mellow condition and good tilth so that good germination of garden seeds is ensured. Generally, lighter soils can be plowed and harrowed or raked in the spring just prior to seeding.

Many of our garden soils, especially those cropped for several years, need additional organic matter besides applications of commercial fertilizer. Where available, well-decomposed barnyard manure provides a good source of organic matter and humus as well as certain fertilizer nutrients. Manure should be applied to garden soils at the rate of one-half to three-fourths tons per 1,000 square feet.

There is always danger of introducing weed seeds with manures, but frequently the need for organic matter is much more important than the danger of adding weeds.

Other sources of organic matter are compost, leaf mold, green manure crops, and peat moss. Peat mosses are good soil amendments and provide a valuable source of organic matter, but add little in the way of chemical nutrients, and may be prohibitive to use on a large scale because of their cost. Acid peat mosses are valuable on alkaline soils where a chlorosis problem exists with certain plants.

In the drier areas of the West, phosphorus and nitrogen are generally the two most needed major elements. These are most economically supplied by using ammoniated phosphate fertilizers; such analysis as 10-20-0, 16-30-0 and 11-48-0 are available. The first number refers to nitrogen content, the second to phosphorus content, and the last number to potash content. Where considerable manure is applied to the soil, only the addition of phosphorus may be required for good plant growth.

Use of manure alone may cause excess foliage growth at the expense of good flower and fruit production because of improper balance between nitrogen and phosphorus. Hence the need for applying more phosphorus to bring the soil in correct balance.

Complete Fertilizer

In more humid sections of the West area, potash may be needed also. All three elements may be supplied by using so-called complete fertilizers such as 6-12-4. Actually, the term complete is misleading, since there are other elements just as important as these in plant nutrition, but nitrogen, phosphorus and potash have given the most trouble as far as need and availability in the soil is concerned, and are frequently needed in the largest amounts.

Since phosphorus is the least mobile of these elements in the soil, it is best worked into the soil when it is plowed or harrowed. In this way, it is placed in the region of the feeding roots of the plants. Nitrogen and potash are more mobile and are readily carried in solution to the roots of the plants. The most economical way of using nitrogen and potash is by placing these very soluble fertilizers in bands about two inches on either side of the seed row, or in bands about three inches away from the transplants. Side dressing with nitrogen during the early growing period of garden plants is also helpful. This is desirable for garden plants that are heavy feeders of nitrogen such as corn, lettuce and other leafy crops.

Rates of fertilizer to be used will depend on soil needs, the kind of fertilizer used, the method of application and the crop growth. It should be remembered that leafy vegetable crops and lawns will need and benefit from heavier feedings of nitrogen than crops from which we expect to harvest roots, fruits or flowers. These latter types of crops will need heavier feedings of phosphorus and lighter feedings of nitrogen as a general rule. Remember, too, that with adequate water available, garden crops will respond best from fertilizer use.

Nursery stock will be arriving for spring planting. As a general rule on plant propagation, well-grown, young deciduous plants transplant with greatest assurance of success as compared with older plants. This is not so important with evergreens since they are generally sold as balled and burlapped stock. The size of the stock and price one wants to pay will be the deciding factor in buying evergreens.

Planting Pointers

In planting deciduous and evergreen stock, dig the planting hole deep enough and wide enough to accommodate the roots without cramping. With evergreens, do not disturb the ball of earth or remove the burlap covering until the plant is set in the planting hole. When the evergreen is properly positioned the burlap covering can be loosened and shoved to the bottom of the planting hole. It does not need to be removed, but can remain in the planting hole to decay. In setting the trees, place them slightly deeper than they occurred in the nursery row.

As soon as the plant is placed properly, fill the planting hole with good top soil, firming it around the roots well so that no pockets or air spaces are left. In filling the planting hole, leave a basin or depression around the base of the plant so that water can collect and aid in thorough watering of the plant. As soon as planted, water the soil thoroughly so the soil is wet through the entire depth of the planting hole.

Some cutting or pruning back of the deciduous trees and shrubs will be advised to balance top growth with roots lost in the transplanting operation. Older stock will need more severe cutting back than younger, since it is likely that more of the root system will have been destroyed in the transplanting operation. The pruning back should entail thinning out weak shoots and cutting back to lateral a buds.

If you want a nice tidy garden then you should consider buying some Garden sheds to ensure your garden is stylish and enjoyable. You can find Garden sheds in a variety of shapes and sizes so you shouldn’t have a problem finding one that’ll suit your needs and tastes.

You can choose from tables, chairs, loungers and benches - whatever you want for your garden your easily be able to find it. Even if you have a small garden you will be able to find Garden sheds that are right for the space you have and the look you want.

A lot of people enjoy their gardens because they purchase Garden sheds which mean they can relax in the outdoors. The first thing you should consider is where you want your garden furniture. Patios or decking areas are ideal for tables and chairs.

An essential part of Garden furniture will be the tables and chairs because they are so useful and can be very stylish. Sleek Garden furniture is very stylish these days so you will need to consider some sleek and stylish tables and chairs for your garden.

You will need to decide on the materials for your table. Wood, metal and glass are just a few of the options available for Garden furniture tables. When you have a table you should be able to get chairs that match and you’ll have the centre of your Garden sheds sorted.

The next thing you should consider if you have a good sized garden is Garden sheds. Garden sheds make staying tidy easy. Garden sheds come in various shapes and designs but as garden items they are important for keeping it clear.

Speedy Garden sheds are ideal for gardens and will certainly help you stay tidy during those hot summer evenings. Garden supplies in the form of Garden sheds require some knowledge and research so that you choose something you like.

Finding Garden sheds is easy. Most large Garden stores sell Garden sheds in many shapes and sizes. Make sure you have a budget plan before you buy any Garden sheds. Stick to your budget so you can enjoy your garden without worrying.

There are lots of places that sell Garden sheds but you’ll need to decide on a store that’ll have what you need at the price you can afford. Some of the most popular places where you can buy Garden sheds in the UK are B&Q and of course, Homebase.

Once you have decided on a budget for your Garden sheds and a place to buy then you can do your research into the ranges available. Choosing Garden sheds for your home should be an easy and exciting task. Make sure you do your research thoroughly before you begin.

Overall, Garden sheds make a garden worth spending time in and garden’s are ideal for entertaining such as BBQs and parties. You should easily be able to find Garden sheds for your garden even if you have a tiny grassy area.

A lot of people benefit from Garden sheds and it’s definitely something you should consider no matter what kind of garden you have. Overall, Garden sheds are relatively cheap to buy in most places so even if you don’t have a huge budget you can enjoy yourself outdoors.

Solar garden lighting is the most economical way to touch off your garden and make it a more appealing place to spend time. While it is a lot more cost effective than other varieties of lighting features for outdoors, it also hosts a wide variety of other benefits for your property. You take the time and care to select the perfect plants for your home, and there is nothing better to set it all off than the perfect light features.

When you use the right types of light sources in a garden the overall vibe can be magical. With this type of light you will be able to create whatever type of atmosphere you want as they provide just as much illumination as battery or electric operated lighting.

Part of the cost savings are due to fewer complications with installation. While electric light features will require wires to be run underground to tap into your power supply, all you will have to do with your solar features is set them out where you want them. There is very little installation required. That’s the beauty of getting your power directly from the sun.

Not only is sunlight all natural and easy to install, but it is completely free for the duration of its life. You will never find yourself adding batteries to the shopping list staring in shock at a much higher electric bill. You get all of the benefits of light in the garden without the running expenses.

Not only will you save lots of money by going with natural light sources in your garden, but you will have a wide selection of different types as well.

Most people have at least one decorative statue in their garden. Gnomes are often seen peeking around bushes while small ladybugs are allowed to stroll along the edge of a path. Your choice of figures will bring a little fun and whimsy to your garden while displaying your own personality to your visitors.

Of course, lights are also used to make the garden or at least specific areas of it more visible in the dark. Some people just want to see the garden from their back window at night while others may enjoy late night or early morning strolls around the property to look at the dew-covered flowers. Depending on your intentions, you can put a line of lights around the outer perimeter of a garden or simply light the edges of some paths.

You will save lots of money and time by purchasing natural light sources. You won’t have to mess with installation or wait for a technician and you will likely be able to afford more lights this way.

As more homeowners see the value of adding more environmentally friendly products to their property there will continue to be a wider variety of these products to select from.

Once you experience the pleasures of using solar garden lighting you may very well find yourself adding other types of renewable energy to your home as well. Not only is using natural light extremely cost effective, but it can increase the attractiveness and the value of your property as well.

Bonsai plants are extremely attractive specimens of age old practice. There are many people who choose to have bonsai plants in their homes because of their beautiful appearance. However, extra care is needed for indoor bonsai trees. This is mostly because they do not receive the full benefits of natural sunlight and natural weather conditions. Perhaps they look like they can withstand anything. But there are some bonsais that are quite delicate with regard to water and light.

Watering Your Indoor Bonsai

When you bring a bonsai tree indoors it will require lighting to replace the natural sunlight that it would have been receiving beforehand. Monitoring how frequently it is watered is also important. Bonsai plants will also be benefited if they are placed in a well ventilated area. The amount of water you give your bonsai hinges on which variety you have. Another key factor is the soil. Very dry soil works well for some species of bonsai, while some others prefer their soil to be quite moist. Your plant might need to be misted. This will help to create a rainforest humidity in which your bonsai plant will thrive. If you decide to use a humidity tray then ensure that the pot is not exposed to the water, but rather placed on some pebbles or a stand.

Bonsai Cutting and Pruning

Indoor bonsai trees still require pruning and cutting on a regular basis in order to maintain their appearance. Just because bonsais look ageless and timeless, this doesn’t mean they don’t keep growing. Indoor and outdoor bonsai plants need to be repotted somewhere between every year to three years, depending on the variety. Another important consideration is maintenance of the branches so it retains its shape. It is important, depending on the variety of bonsai, to cut back on the fertilizer during the winter season. The reason for this is that there are some types of bonsai that go into hibernation at this time. So they don’t require as many nutrients as in the warmer months. Bonsais kept inside won’t get the full benefits of seasonal cycles due to their artificial surroundings. You also need to keep an eye on your indoor bonsai for pests and other irregularities. An indoor bonsai is very attractive to mites, spiders and other pests. Carefully cleaning the branches and leaves with a soft brush or moistened cloth is the best approach.

By following these tips for bonsai care, your tree is sure to be an attractive feature of your home for years to come.

Its hard to believe that were now more than halfway through the month of March. Weve already celebrated Mothers Day weeks ago and before you know it, it will be mid-June and well be celebrating Fathers Day. But we wouldnt want to miss the nice long weekend in between those holidays ” Memorial Day weekend. Time to usher in the sun and start planning ways to enjoy the warmest season of the year.

For many of us well spend the weekend trying to get outdoors as much as possible (providing the weather cooperates of course). Maybe well get to go boating or fishing on a lake or ocean. Or maybe get out and take a nice hike in a nearby State Park. Some will make the most of the long weekend by going away for a road trip to the ocean and spend the weekend enjoying the beach.

There are many people that have decided to stay around home for the long weekend so they can just hang out at home and relax. Sometimes after running around all of the time during the week its nice to have nowhere to go - to just kickback and relax. And the best part of staying local is the money thats saved on hotels and gas ” plus there arent any traffic headaches to deal with either.

For simple fun at home its a great time to break out the classic backyard family games like badminton, volleyball, horseshoes, and water pistols. If youre lucky enough to have a swimming pool, thats even better. Or you can just pump up those great new inflatable pools, hop in and enjoy as much fresh air as you can. Seriously, after running around all week its really nice to keep it as simple as possible.

Of course you cant have Memorial Day without firing up the barbecue. It can be anything from the classic grilled cheeseburgers and chili hotdogs with some fresh ears of corn-on-the-cob on the side. Or you can cook up some teriyaki tuna steaks or some grilled juicy steaks. Dont forget the fresh mouth-watering watermelon. The great part of cooking out on the grill is that theres so much less mess to clean up in the kitchen.

It will all be more enjoyable if you line up your supplies before the weekend arrives. If you do your shopping early youll avoid the crowds or having to run out for things when you should be home enjoying a much-deserved weekend of relaxation. And dont forget to check to make sure youve got plenty of fuel in your barbecue.