ARA Content - Free Online Content http://www.aracontent.com Category: Lawn/Gardenen-us 5 Outdoor lighting tops the list of easy weekend projects 8045040101 (ARA) - With its mild temperatures, fall is a great time for outdoor home improvement projects, but it's also supposed to be a time to relax and have fun with family and friends. That makes quick-to-do projects that add to the "family fun factor" appealing to homeowners, who also need to spend their limited home improvement dollars wisely.

"If you are looking for an easy project that will make an immediate difference in your quality of life, add outdoor lights to your deck or patio. Lighting turns your outdoor space into an entertaining place and a favorite new spot for hanging out at night," says Chelsea Gardner, an outdoor living expert from Dallas.

When looking for outdoor lighting products, don't limit yourself to the local home improvement stores. Many manufacturers sell direct to the consumer, and online retailers may offer wider selections. Best of all, buying online means home delivery, saving you a trip to the store and time on your project from the very start.

Jay Savignac of Aurora Deck Lighting in Whitewater, Wis., says outdoor deck lighting offers immediate pay-back in terms of style, comfort and safety. His company is a leading manufacturer of top quality deck, fence and landscape light products that are designed as much for ease of installation as they are for energy efficiency and style.

"Our primary customer has traditionally been the remodeling contractor, deck or fence builder, and the easier a product is to install, the more builders like it. Over the last several years as the home improvement craze has grown, we've seen a large increase in the number of do-it-yourself homeowners who buy direct from us. This has focused us even more on designing products that homeowners can get creative with and easily install," Savignac says.

For the 2010 season, Aurora introduced two new outdoor lighting kits: the Phoenix Recessed Lighting Kit and the Odyssey LED Strip Lights Kit. Both kits come complete with enough lights to create a custom outdoor lighting installation on a standard size deck or porch. The tiny Phoenix Recessed LED Lights come fully wired, 10 to a kit. The kit also contains the transformer/power source, easy to use connectors,100 feet of twisted wire and a convenient remote control.

"Homeowners buy the recessed lights primarily to add safety to the stairs on their deck or porch. They also look great along the edge of a deck, and they are small enough to tuck under a rail. They are easy to install and offer unlimited options for creativity," Savignac says.

The Odyssey LED Strip Lights come in narrow strips of tiny yet bright LED lights in four sizes. Each kit comes with four strips in the designated size, transformer, connectors, wire and remote control. Odyssey lights focus a curtain of LED light downward for dramatic lighting that adds both safety and sophisticated style.

Both kits can be viewed online at www.auroradecklighting.com. Kits can be ordered from an online retailer like www.deckdepot.com.

Nantucket Post Cap Company has also released a new lighting product for the season that offers the perfect lighting solution for homeowners who have a cedar or redwood deck or fence, with installation that couldn't be any easier.

The Nantucket Bar Harbor Solar Light is the first all-wood solar LED post cap light.

As for ease of installation: the only thing needed to install a solar post cap is wood glue or sealant and a screwdriver. The post cap lights are available in a range of sizes, with a light available to fit any size fence or deck post. The Bar Harbor Solar Lights are built with the same craftsmanship as the company's beautiful redwood arbors, gates and trellises. You can order the products direct from the company online at www.nantucketpostcap.com.

Gardner says another benefit to adding landscape lighting, apart from the ease of installation and the ability to enjoy outdoor spaces at night, is the value and style it adds to decks, fences, porches and landscapes.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/10755_B3_rgb3.jpg What you need to know about protecting your ash trees 8044781011 (ARA) - Virtually all of the 7 billion ash trees in the United States are at risk for infestation by the emerald ash borer, also known as EAB. You can save your ash trees by acting now and starting a prevention program.

The EAB is native to eastern Russia, northern China, Japan and Korea. In 2002, it was first discovered in southeast Michigan and Windsor, Ontario, likely a hitch-hiker in ash wood used for stabilizing cargo in ships, or for packing and crating. By May 2010, emerald ash borer infestations occurred in 12 states and two Canadian provinces.

By late spring 2010, the borer is estimated to have killed over 40 million ash trees in the United States and the potential devastation has been compared with the loss of the American elm and the American chestnut.

If you enjoy ash trees, have learned yours are infested, and are trying to save them from the emerald ash borer, it's possible to take action and rescue your trees. Without treatment, it is only a matter of time before the insect attacks and eventually kills your ash trees. There are several options available to protect your trees, including doing it yourself or hiring a landscape specialist. Both options involve using a systemic insecticide that is applied to the soil or tree trunk or injected into the tree.

It is possible to protect ash trees before the borers attack a tree. These protective treatments are usually applied in the spring and should continue each year. Large trees may require two applications per year. Once the borer infests a tree, treatment costs increase, but the tree can be saved as long as the damage isn't too severe or advanced.

The first step to protecting or treating infested trees is diagnosis. Contact a tree service company, a local nursery that offers this service, or a lawn and landscape service, such as Scotts LawnService. To find a service, a simple internet search of "emerald ash borer" within your zip code should give you companies that can provide EAB protection services. Make sure to ask if the technician who would provide the diagnostic and treatment services is licensed in your state.

Treatment options are generally less expensive than the cost of tree removal and replacement. For example, a 25- to 30-foot ash tree will cost about $400 to remove and replanting a similar size tree will cost about $2,000. In comparison, a landscape or tree company will charge about $50- to $75 per year to treat a tree that size, giving you about five to seven years of enjoyment before the cost of treatment equals the cost of tree removal.

"In my own yard, I have ash trees, several of which I value for shade and beauty," says Lee Schaber, vice president of technical services for Scotts LawnService. "There are a few ash trees on the back lot line that are not as significant to me. I've treated the prized ashes for the past two seasons and left the other trees untreated." Schaber continues, "The difference is remarkable: the treated trees look good, but the untreated trees are dying." For more information on the emerald ash borer, go to www.emeraldashborer.info.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/10585_B39_rgb3.jpg How to make growing your own vegetables as earth-friendly as possible 8047310101 (ARA) - There was a time when it was the norm to go out in the yard and pull fresh vegetables up from the soil. At some point over the years, we moved from the goodness of home-grown vegetables toward processed foods and microwave dinners. Now consumers are becoming more aware of the financial value of growing their own vegetables, and how doing so can bolster the health of their families and of the earth.

Vegetable gardening might sound intimidating, but new technologies can make your thumb greener than ever. Combined with good old-fashioned growing techniques, your garden can be healthy and yield a good crop with less effort than you'd imagine - all while being good for the earth. Here are some tips for a garden that is doubly green.

Water, water everywhere, but not too much
* A fine balance needs to be struck when it comes to watering your vegetable garden, especially during drought conditions. You want your plants to get adequate moisture, but overwatering can be bad for plants and a wasteful use of a precious natural resource. Because it's better for both your crops and the environment, careful water usage is essential to being a truly green gardener.

Installing an irrigation system is a good way to keep water usage at the ideal levels. Plus, you don't have to plan a schedule around when you need to water. There are user-friendly, affordable solutions like Mister Landscaper's new Drip Irrigation Vegetable Kit, which connects to your outdoor spigot. It's a great way to ensure that your plants get the water they need, without wasting or over watering. The kit is drought approved in most areas and available at Lowe's in the plumbing department. Watering timers can also make the job of watering even easier. Keep in mind that it's best to water in the early morning, when the sun is lower in the sky, for 30 to 60 minutes, every other day. For more information about watering vegetable gardens, go to www.misterlandscaper.com.

One man's garbage is another's fertilizer
* Ever feel guilty about throwing out vegetable and fruit peelings, rinds or scraps? Your intuition might just be telling you that there's a better way to handle those leftovers. Composting is a great way to make use of organic matter that might otherwise just get thrown away.

Building a compost heap is relatively easy, and it will keep on giving back to your garden and the environment. The four necessary ingredients for composting, according to California's "CalRecycle" program, are nitrogen (from sources like grass clippings or those throwaway veggie scraps), carbon (from sources like sawdust or twigs), water and air. Once your compost is at the ideal level of decomposition (it will be uniformly dark brown and crumbly), spread it on your garden to give plants a nutrient boost.

Get growing - organically
* From the moment you start planning a garden, think organic. The most basic - and fun - choice of all is deciding which plants you'll grow. Choose organic seeds and starters so that you know you're buying into an earth-friendly business venture. There's the added bonus of knowing that your plants won't be tainted with harmful chemicals.

When it comes to maintaining your garden, you'll probably need things other than just compost. Look for products that are recognized as organic by respected organizations like the USDA or the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) - you'll be able to find an ever-growing supply of products like pest repellent or soil amendments.

Growing your own vegetables at home has many benefits: it saves money, allows you to control what your food is exposed to and provides a fun and easy activity that the whole family can participate in. And when you follow these green gardening principles, you'll be doing something good for the earth, too. http://www.aracontent.com/images/10281_B11_rgb3.jpg Create an outdoor patio that's fit for the cover of a magazine 8044431752 (ARA) - While the nice weather lasts, there's nothing better than expanding your living space to the great outdoors. Luckily, it's easy and affordable to create a comfortable and chic outdoor room that's perfectly put together. Use these quick tips and inspiring ideas to transform your deck, porch or patio into one you'll be proud to show off.

Planning perfection
Simply putting furniture on a deck or patio doesn't create an inviting outdoor living area. Instead, be sure to look at the bigger picture. Start by viewing your patio as an extension of your home. As you would an interior room, be sure to incorporate a theme and color scheme into your new design.

Whether you have a lot ... or only a little room on your patio, arrange the furniture so that it is inviting for you and your guests to socialize. And, no need to buy new furniture to make your outdoor space look new. Instead, apply a fresh coat of stain or spray paint to your existing wood or metal furniture for a stylish and updated look.

Manufacturers, such as Krylon offer spray products, such as its Exterior Semi-Transparent Spray Stain and Outdoor Spaces spray paint to make it quick and easy to make over your patio. Both are available in the latest colors to complement any color scheme you choose. Best of all, they dry quickly, and provide superior protection against the outdoor elements.

Once your furniture is finished, use your revamped pieces as a focal point, along with some significant accessories. Layer color, textures and heights to give the space a pulled-together appearance. Incorporate colorful placemats and an interesting centerpiece on your table to set it apart. Place coordinating water-resistant pillows on a bench or chairs to bring the comfort of indoor living outside.

And don't forget about under your feet; by adding an outdoor area rug or mat, you'll have a cohesive and stylish space.

Plants please
One of the greatest parts of having an outdoor living area is being able to include natural elements. Just like the indoors, nothing cheers up a room like strategically placed fresh flowers. To keep your space functional and clutter-free, look for pots and planters that work with the overall layout of your space. If you have a balcony or long railing, try using flower boxes that can affix to them. Or, if you have the space for oversized pots and unique stands, simply place a few flowers in key spots to create a space that will make your neighbors green with envy.

In addition to flowers, fresh herbs can be a fragrant, beautiful and useful addition to your patio - especially if you enjoy cooking. They are extremely easy to grow and care for, so add a few decorative herb pots to spice up the look of your patio - and your summer dishes.

Extraordinary extras
Next, get cozy in your outdoor space by adding an outdoor fireplace or a fire pit. You can snuggle with that someone special, roast marshmallows with friends or curl up with a good book on a cool night. Or, if you love to lounge, install a hammock to enjoy those warm fall days. Finally, don't forget about lighting. Stringing lights or lighting candles can make your patio seem magical at night and help create a great atmosphere when entertaining.

When updating your outdoor living space, remember to decorate like you would the indoors, for a pulled-together, chic outdoor space. And soon, by using a few of these ideas, you'll create a picture-perfect patio in no time.

For more information about any Krylon products, visit www.krylon.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/10724_B106_rgb3.jpg Tractors can be safer with seatbelts and rollover protection 8045540104 (ARA) - Tractor rollovers are all too common among both professional operators and rural lifestyle families alike. In fact, the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) reports that overturned tractors are the leading cause of occupational agricultural deaths in the United States.

So what can you do to help keep yourself and your family safe? Follow good safety practices and make sure that your tractor is equipped with a Rollover Protection Structure (ROPS) and a seatbelt. As the weather gets warmer, people often head outdoors to finish last year's project or to start a new one. But before firing up the tractor, operators should ensure that it is equipped with a ROPS and seatbelt.

"A ROPS and seatbelt saved my life. I was coming up the highway on my Kubota tractor with a large round bale on the back. One car approached from the front and another from the back, so I moved to the side to avoid the possibility of an accident. The shoulder gave way, and the tractor rolled over," says Jeffrey L. Tucker of Raindance Farms in South Range, Wis. "I always keep the ROPS up and I wore my seatbelt. As the tractor began to roll, the seatbelt locked me in place and made sure I was situated under the roll bar. I'm here today because of that."

All tractor operators should take Tucker's real-life story to heart each time they climb on to drive any moving equipment. Fastened seatbelts and rollover protection structures are a critical combination for safe operation that can save your life.

Should a rollover occur, the combination of a ROPS and a fastened seatbelt are intended to keep the operator within a protective safety zone. In addition, a ROPS also absorbs energy if there is a turnover, helping to limit subsequent rolling. All operators should ensure that their tractors are equipped with this combination of safety features - and fasten their seatbelt each and every time they drive the machine.

Most tractor manufacturers include a ROPS and a seatbelt on new tractors; however, many older tractors did not come with standard ROPS and seatbelt. Tractor owners who have an older tractor model are encouraged to visit their local authorized tractor dealer to get a ROPS retrofit - many dealers or manufacturers run promotions to retrofit older tractors to meet today's safety standards. The NIOSH estimates that fatality rates due to tractor overturns could be reduced by 71 percent if all tractors in the U.S. were equipped with ROPS.

"Safety is a high priority, and we recommend that all tractors are equipped with a ROPS and seatbelt," says Greg Embury, vice president of sales and marketing, Kubota Tractor Corporation. "This combination can help to prevent major injury and could save a life."

Kubota is reinforcing important recommendations and safety rules to help keep tractor operators safe with the following tips:

* If removing a ROPS to store a tractor, always have the structure re-installed before operating.

* A ROPS and fastened seatbelt should always be used together. If doing specialized work, check with your dealer to be sure that the ROPS matches the job functions.

* Never use a homemade ROPS. All ROPS should be manufactured and engineered to performance-match the tractor.

* Don't try to install a ROPS by yourself - always have your ROPS installed at a certified tractor dealership to ensure proper and secure application. An incorrectly installed ROPS could be a hazard.

* An authorized manufacturer's dealer is the best place to find experienced technicians ready to help provide additional safety information and details about a ROPS retrofit for older models.

"When we work together to reinforce safe equipment operating practices, we not only protect ourselves, but also the ones we love in the process," says Embury.

Visit www.kubota.com for additional safety information including the "Ten Commandments of Tractor Safety," a tractor safety coloring book and an informational safety video, "It's a Family Affair." http://www.aracontent.com/images/9792_B100_rgb3.jpg Create your own relaxing outdoor oasis this summer 8046010202 (ARA) - It's summer time again and the living is easy - at least it's supposed to be. But when mosquitos invade your yard, it's tough to enjoy fun in the sun.

Lasting summer memories often begin with a pleasant environment in your own backyard. But the first step is keeping the mosquitoes at bay. TV home and garden expert Shirley Bovshow, in partnership with OFF! Clip-On Mosquito Repellent, wants to help make your backyard an ideal place to relax or entertain guests by creating your own personal outdoor oasis this summer.

Bovshow suggests these tips to help you make the most of your outdoor time and space this summer:

Define your space: Use potted plants to identify space and create intimate areas in your patio or yard. Certain plants are perfect for screening an unappealing view, dividing large spaces into smaller ones and directing foot traffic.

Make it private: Hang inexpensive, colorful or patterned rugs between simple wood posts for a fast and cheerful screen.

Repel unwanted guests: Keep mosquitoes from spoiling your time outdoors. OFF! Clip-On Mosquito Repellent provides head-to-toe protection without spraying anything on your skin and lasts for up to 12 hours. It features a quiet, battery-powered fan that circulates repellent and can clip to a belt, purse or chair. More information about helping to keep away mosquitoes can be found at www.off.com.

Be creative: Create a festive focal point with your pool at night by adding floating candles and glass orbs. If you are not swimming, these festive additions will make your pool look magical at night.

Keep it cozy: Create an impromptu side table with a large flower pot capped with a round paver or flagstone. You can add built-in seating by capping your raised vegetable garden beds with stone, wood or tile at a finished height of 14 to 16 inches and add cushions for entertaining guests.

Light up the night: Solar-powered path lights gather energy during the day and can be used as soft, ambient lighting at night. Gather and stick them into potted plants in your patio near sitting areas. Solar lights are safer than candles and require no electricity.

Add flair in unexpected places: Repurpose wine corks, sea shells and marbles as "mulch" or as a finishing touch to container gardens.

Whether you're creating a backyard oasis to amaze guests or looking to build a beautiful retreat for your own enjoyment, keeping pesky mosquitoes from taking a bite out of your summer time is priceless.

"For me, enjoying time outdoors is an essential element to a relaxing and memorable summer," says Bovshow. "With OFF! Clip-On, I can spend time outside enjoying my favorite activities without pesky interferences from bug bites and without having to spray anything on my skin." http://www.aracontent.com/images/10313_B203_rgb3.jpg Inspect your fences and gates to ensure safety and security 8044330203 (ARA) - Fencing around the home is vulnerable to weather-related, accidental or intentional damage. Rain hastens rust, and ground freezing and thawing or high winds can affect gate alignment. Children swinging on gates and animals trying to get through the fence also take a toll.

Now's the time to inspect fencing, gates and gate hardware around your property to ensure all are in good working condition. Rusty metal hinges and latches or gate misalignment can lead to gates that no longer close securely. These conditions can be dangerous or even deadly if ignored.

Fences with gates in good working order -- especially those that are self-closing and self-latching -- can protect your home and property from unwanted intruders. Fences protect children from danger -- whether they're designed to keep toddlers out of swimming pools or to keep them in the yard, away from busy traffic. Fences can help keep your own pets in your yard, and other animals out. They can also reduce homeowners' liability.

Even if your fence has been erected primarily to define your property line, it's ineffective if access gates don't close or latch properly after opening. When was the last time you checked each gate around your property?

Selecting the right gate hardware can easily correct most gate closure problems. Innovative gate hinges and latches by D&D Technologies are made of super strong engineering polymers that will not rust, are adjustable, self-lubricating and include high-grade stainless steel mounting hardware. They require little or no maintenance over the years and are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Updating your gates so that they are self-closing and self-latching, improving their security and overall look, can be done in just a few minutes with these unique products. Most D&D latches feature built-in key locks, which eliminate the hassles and extra cost of a separate padlock or pull-string. The company's TruClose hinges have a built-in self-closing spring that is tension adjustable for different gate weights with a twist of a screwdriver and eliminates those dangerous and unsightly external springs.

"In our research, we found that when homeowners consider their fencing needs, rusty metal gate hardware that no longer functions properly was their No. 1 concern," says D&D Technologies' Senior Vice President Jim Paterson. "Most homeowners are not aware that rust-free and adjustable gate hardware, such as the hinges and latches we offer, are available."

If you have a pool, spa or want to prevent children from opening any gate, the MagnaLatch is specifically designed for these situations. First sold in the U.S. in 1994, MagnaLatch is the No. 1 selling child safety gate latch in the world, having sold more than 1 million latches worldwide. It meets most pool barrier codes and is endorsed by many safety experts.

"An important fall home improvement project should be ensuring that your fences and gates are functioning properly and are protected from rust, a destructive force that can render gate hardware useless," says Paterson. "Common gravity latches are inexpensive and function fine when new. However, as soon as rust sets in, these latches no longer close without manual assistance."

Paterson notes that rust-free gate hardware by D&D Technologies is now available under the Stanley or National Hardware brand through select Lowe's stores or on-line at www.lowes.com, and through other hardware retailers. The hinges and latches are simple to install and most models offer vertical and horizontal adjustment to correct gate misalignment caused by ground movement, children swinging on gates, or other factors.

"For the fencing itself, rust can present greater challenges," Paterson says. "Steel fences and gates, if not protected with an effective sealant such as powder coating, must be periodically repainted with rust-resistant paint to prevent weather-related damage. Be sure to remove existing rust before painting, and use a rust-preventive primer. For wood fences, use paint specifically designed for fencing.

"Aluminum, vinyl or wood fencing can protect against rust on the fence itself," Paterson continues, "but the hardware must still be rust-free and adjustable to ensure the gate will be in working order. A quick inspection, and if needed, the minutes spent installing new gate hardware, can help protect your family and property, increasing security and decreasing liability."

See www.ddtechglobal.com, e-mail info@ddtechusa.com or call (800) 716-0888, ext. 292 for details.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/11301_B20_rgb3.jpg Put a little personality in your outdoor entertaining 8048940110 (ARA) - Warm sun-drenched days and cool starry evenings can inspire the host or hostess in us all. It's the perfect time of year for easy outdoor entertaining - to reconnect with family and friends at a backyard barbecue, neighborhood block party or rooftop soiree. It's also a time to show off your unique style and personality without the pressure of planning an elaborate sit-down dinner.

"While outdoor entertaining is definitely more casual, it doesn't have to be boring," says Ann Gearty, senior brand manager at Rust-Oleum. "With a little imagination and a few simple touches, it's easy to transform an ordinary barbecue or casual evening with friends into an event your guests will remember."

Decide on a theme - The easiest way to select a theme is to look at your guest list and your outdoor space and let them be your guide. For example, if you're planning a family party in the backyard, spice up the ordinary with a colorful tailgating theme. Planning a neighborhood gathering? Make it a back-to-school celebration that will put smiles on kids' faces (and parents' too) with a few simple props. Or, transform a casual rooftop party into a magical evening by taking a cue from Shakespeare's "Mid-Summer Night's Dream."

Set the stage - Once you've selected a theme, it's time to set the stage. Support your favorite football team by spray painting an old patio set, planters and other outdoor accessories in your team's colors. High-energy colors like Rust-Oleum Ultra Cover 2X Real Orange, Paprika, Deep Blue or Sun Yellow are just a few colors that may help you support your favorite team. Even old galvanized buckets can be transformed into brightly colored beverage coolers with a little spray paint. Add a festive table cloth, colorful paper plates and napkins, a "make it yourself" burger or chili station - and a custom colored bean bag toss game board - for a festive family gathering.

Transform an ordinary piece of plywood into a reusable "inspiration board" that's the perfect focal point for a back-to-school celebration. Paint the plywood with Rust-Oleum Chalkboard Paint. It's available in traditional black as well as a tint base so you can choose from a variety of colors such as Banner Blue or Raspberry. Then invite the neighborhood parents to write inspirations like "Do Your Best", "Aim for the A" or "Practice Makes Perfect". Add kids, cupcakes, juice boxes, a few backyard games and inexpensive party favors -- empty juice cans transformed into pencil holders. Spray paint the cans with their favorite school colors, and personalize them with American Accents Decorative Paint Pens. They'll enjoy them throughout the school year.

Twinkling white lights on rooftop railings and large outdoor plants can set the stage for an elegant rooftop soiree for business colleagues. Spray paint flea market or garage sale finds like old bistro tables, wicker chairs, candlesticks and planters with Rust-Oleum Universal Metallic All-Surface Paint to give them the high-end look of Metallic Satin Nickel, Aged Copper or Oil-Rubbed Bronze. Universal can be used on any surface at any angle (even upside down), so you can paint wood, wicker, glass, metal - even plastic or vinyl - so let your imagination run wild. Chill the wine and welcome your guests for a magical evening outdoors.

Looking for more inspiration? Visit www.paintideas.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/11089_B17_rgb3.jpg Add value and appeal with four simple home maintenance projects 8045360204 (ARA) - Regardless of whether you're staying or thinking of selling, you want your home to look its best and be an asset to the neighborhood. Attractive homes accrue in value and help build strong, thriving communities. Plus, you'll enjoy living in your house more if you're happy to come home to it every night.

Projects to improve the value and appeal of your home don't have to cost a lot of money or take a lot of time to accomplish, according to Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware's home expert. "There are four easy and inexpensive projects that I recommend every homeowner undertake."

Update your curb appeal

Curb appeal is, quite simply, what everyone sees first when their car pulls up to your house. "Your mother's advice holds true here - nothing is more important than a good first impression," says Manfredini. "Strong curb appeal will help set a positive tone for the rest of the house."

Walk out to your sidewalk and take a look at the front of your house, checking for anything that needs to be cared for. A good first step is to update your exterior hardware, including house numbers, which often become dirty and dated over time.

Create a luscious lawn

Green, lush lawns always receive a lot of attention. Help your lawn reach its full potential by providing it with the proper fertilizer and grass seed. Manfredini recommends making sure that your lawn receives between 1 and 1 1/2 inches of water per week, including rainfall.

Groom your garden

Nothing compliments a great lawn more than a well-manicured garden. After the cold winter months, gardens and flowerbeds can be left looking unruly. Everyone wants outdoor spaces where they can enjoy spending time, so it's important that you tidy up these areas.

An easy way to do this is by spreading new mulch. Traditional mulch is a great option, but if you are looking for something that will last, consider Rubberific Rubber Mulch, which will last for 10 years.

"Homeowners should also trim and prune shrubs and trees to create a refined look," says Manfredini. "A 'jungle theme' makes your house look unkempt." Electric hedge trimmers can make this project simple and easy.

Finally, give your garden a pop of color by planting inexpensive annuals, such as marigolds and snapdragons.

Spruce up with paint

Now that the exterior of your home is looking great, spend some time on your interior. "Interior painting is one of the most inexpensive and simple projects that homeowners can do," says Manfredini. "And, it makes a huge difference!"

Choose neutral paint colors over bold ones. Equally important to the color is the type of paint you select. Ace Paint recently launched a new paint called Royal Finest, which is the first paint to combine ultimate stain resistance and environmental friendliness. Royal Finest is made with Scotchgard Protector from 3M, so stains and scuffmarks wipe right off. It is also low-odor, low VOC and GREEN WISE certified, so you know it's eco-friendly.

For more tips and advice on updating your home, visit www.acehardware.com or stop by your neighborhood Ace Hardware store. http://www.aracontent.com/images/10033_B4_rgb3.jpg Hot tips for cool crops: Get growing on your fall garden 8046210505 (ARA) - You might think the end of summer means bidding farewell to fresh, homegrown veggies. Not so - many cool-season crops hit their heyday as autumn temperatures drop, and some even taste better when nipped by a light frost.

As long as their basic growing conditions are met, vegetable plants don't care what season it is. If you live in a warmer climate, you may be able to grow your fall garden all winter long. If, however, you live in a colder area, your growing season will be shorter.

In most regions of the country, gardeners plant fall vegetables in August or September for harvest in October and November. You'll need to carefully calculate your growing season so you can ensure plants have time to produce before freezing weather arrives. Generally, you should plant fall vegetables when daytime temperatures range between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit (the cooler the better); night temperatures should be above 40 degrees, and you'll need enough sunshine to ensure plants will get at least six hours of sun per day. You'll also need to give plants at least an inch of water per week.

To get started, remove all the debris left over from your summer garden so fall crops have plenty of room to grow. Add compost to your garden beds and landscapes. Soil should be light, well-aerated and well-draining - since fall gardens are more likely to get soggy from rain. Mulch will keep the soil cool and moist during the last days of summer.

You can also mix in an all natural fertilizer like Bonnie Plants, Herb and Vegetable Plant Food, made from soybean oilseed extract, known to contain 150,000 nutritional and organic compounds that include vitamins, minerals, amino acids and proteins, enzymes, plant hormones and carbohydrates. All are vital to plant growth. Next, find out your local frost and freeze dates. For most areas, frost doesn't have to end the fall growing season. Monitor your local weather forecast during late September and early October so you know when frost is coming.

Once you know your local frost and freeze dates, you can begin planning - and planting - your fall garden. Remember, when growing vegetables in the fall, plants need to be in the ground in time to mature before the first frost, and to yield most of their harvest before the first heavy freeze. Some cool-season crops mature in as little as 30 to 40 days, while others may take several months to produce.

Since time is of the essence when planting a fall garden, start out with transplants that are already growing. Choose fast-maturing varieties, like Bonnie Plants, to get the most for your harvest. The gardening experts at Bonnie suggest these fall crops:

* Winterbor kale - This vigorous producer weathers winter easily, even in very cold climates. Cut outer leaves so that the center can continue growing. Space transplants about 12 inches apart

* Georgia collards - Another leafy green similar to kale, Georgia collards are prized for their sweet, cabbage-like flavor. Space transplants 36 inches apart.

* Romaine lettuce -- Romaine packs more vitamins, minerals, fiber, and phytonutrients than other popular types of lettuce. Space transplants 18 inches apart.

* Early dividend broccoli - Popular, productive and easy to grow, this broccoli is high in fiber and calcium. Set transplants 18 inches apart.

* Mustard greens - Offering spicy hot leaves, this is a very fast-growing, nutritious vegetable. Mustard greens always taste sweeter when nipped by frost. Space plants 12 inches apart.

* Bonnie hybrid cabbage - Bonnie's best cabbage is high in beta-carotene, vitamins C and K, and fiber. Space transplants 24 inches apart.

* Arugula - These fast-growing leafy greens are super-food for your bones. The leaves are "nutrient dense" and low in calories. Leaves grow best in cool weather.

As winter grows closer, you can extend your garden harvest by using floating row covers on frosty nights, or by planting in containers that can be brought indoors overnight. Be ready with some kind of protection to cover your plants. You can opt for something commercially manufactured, such as cloches, polyethylene blankets and corrugated fiberglass covers, or try simple household items like old towels, bed sheets, or even used plastic milk jugs with the bottoms removed.

You can continue to enjoy fresh, homegrown vegetables through fall and even into winter when you start with some expert knowledge and the right plants. To learn more about growing a fall garden visit www.bonnieplants.com. http://www.aracontent.com/images/10292_B51_rgb3.jpg Early fall grass rejuvenation from summer wear and tear 8044781111 (ARA) - As summer winds down, heat and drought may have left your grass a little tired. Soccer, picnics and chasing fireflies have likely taken a toll. Luckily, because of cooler temperatures and an increase in precipitation, fall is the best time for lawn rescue.

To many homeowners, early fall yard work may seem overwhelming, but a few 15 minute projects are all it takes to revive the grass you enjoyed this summer. With these simple tips, you can ensure an inviting gathering space for next year.

1. Lush green grass doesn't just feel good between the toes, it also helps crowd out undesirables. Bare and thin spots provide an opportunity for weeds to get a foot-hold on your lawn, but repairing these troubled areas is quick and easy. To fill in bare patches in a smaller area, apply Scotts EZ Seed, an all-in-one seeding mix, fertilizer and mulch, that takes the guess work out of seeding, and visibly shows when to water by lightening in color. For those larger thinning areas, try "over-seeding" by spreading a high quality grass seed over the entire area. This thickens grass ravaged by heat, drought and play. With a little watering or some help from Mother Nature, your new grass will green quickly this fall.

2. Be sure to feed your grass. Use compost, an organic or conventional lawn food - avoid all-purpose fertilizers labeled for gardening on your grass. So-called "all-purpose" 10-10-10 fertilizer is specifically designed for the nutritional needs of flowers and vegetables and will deliver 10 times more phosphorus than your lawn needs. Always use fertilizers labeled for grass; and when doubt, ask the experts at your local garden center or visit www.Scotts.com.

3. Well-fed grass isn't just good-looking, but also vigorous. Compared to undernourished grass, a fed lawn needs less water each year and reduces noise, run-off and erosion. In early fall, feeding is a simple step, which can be repeated about a month to six weeks later. Feeding grass with a lawn food like Organic Choice Lawn Food will yield great results for minimum effort. Be sure to use a starter lawn food if you are growing new grass from seed or sod, have over-seeded or patched bare spots until new grass is well established.

4. Leaves are your lawn's best friend. This fall, use your lawnmower to mulch leaves into dime-sized pieces, then top with winter lawn food made especially to help leaves recycle back into the soil providing food for earthworms and soil microbes.

5. Keep your mower on the highest setting to encourage root growth deep into the soil to lock out weeds. Keep mowing your lawn to its summer height (about 3 or more inches) until it stops growing.

These steps can help give you the lawn you want to relax on with family and friends. Come spring, your grass will be in tip-top shape all thanks to a little know-how this fall.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/11059_B41_rgb3.jpg Smart ways to save money on summer home improvement projects 8042890506 (ARA) - With summer in the air, you're just itching to get that home improvement project going. It's a great time to install a rain garden, improve storm-water runoff in your yard, redo your windows or siding, or even change the look of one of the rooms inside your house with new paint and furniture.

No matter what project you have on your summer to-do list, you're going to be shopping for supplies, and depending on how large your project is, the price can add up quickly.

Here are some tips to get your home improvement projects going, while keeping a bit of extra cash in your pocket:

* DIY - If you have any handy talents, you can save a lot of money by doing the project yourself, or by only contracting out part of the work where a professional might be required. If you aren't certain about installing a wood floor in your living room or are in need of landscaping ideas for around your back porch, head to your local library and check out several books on the topic for background knowledge.

* Negotiate work agreements with your friends - Having more hands on deck to help with the work will make the job go much faster, but you don't have to hire the help. Offer your friends a trade - maybe you'll take them out for dinner. Or volunteer your services on one of their home improvement projects. Just make sure they understand the trade before the work gets started so you don't abuse your friendship.

* Put cash back in your pocket when purchasing supplies - You can find great deals on supplies from leading home improvement retailers including Home Depot, Ace Hardware, American Blind, Lumber Liquidators and many more using online coupons and discount codes through Ebates.com. And at Ebates.com, not only can you get discounts for free shipping, or reduced prices at more than 1,200 online stores, but you will also get a check back in the mail for a percentage of what you purchase online.

* Look for contracting specials - If you do need to hire a contractor to help you with your project, look online to find specials being offered this summer. You can also find coupons for discounts in home improvement newspaper tabs or in the back of the phone book. Some of the more popular coupon topics include insulation, siding, windows and doors and roofing projects.

* Stage your project over time - You might discover your project is too much to handle - both physically and financially - in one season. The best recommendation is to break it down into mini projects. For example, if you want to landscape the entire yard, consider concentrating first on a vegetable garden or a flower garden that outlines the house. One advantage to breaking down a huge project is it allows you to discover how much maintenance and upkeep work you need to do on a yearly basis. You may discover you want to revise later stages of the project and make them maintenance free.

As the summer gets started, fast forward your imagination to this fall where you are enjoying that new room inside the house, or are sitting on your refinished deck and admiring your backyard with its fresh gardens. And you should feel a smile spreading across your face as you remember how much money you saved on your project.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/10576_B6_rgb3.jpg Right for your region: Keep your garden beautiful this fall 8049860103 (ARA) - A colorful fall garden is as simple as knowing what to plant. Although gardening sources may suggest seasonal projects, these might not be ideal for your region. To prepare for autumn, follow these simple guidelines based on your local climate. It's easy to have a beautiful fall garden - no matter where you live.

Settlers of the Southeast: Revive your garden by adding color with plants that thrive in cool weather, like pansies, foxgloves, snapdragons, sweet alyssum and edibles such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, lettuce, greens and radishes. Container roses love autumn and are an easy addition to any outdoor space. Planting beauties like tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and crocuses now will bring a splash of color to spring. Start a compost heap for conditioning your soil or feeding your garden.

Citizens of the Southwest: Temperatures are perfect to enhance your fall menu by planting herbs like cilantro and dill, as well as delicious vegetables like peas, carrots, beets and collard greens. Add color to your outdoor space with bloomers like poppies, dianthus, black-eyed Susans and moss roses. Remember, for rose bushes, now is the time to prune and feed to encourage further blooming. Fall is the best time to feed, dethatch, aerate and overseed grass with fescue or rye. Be sure to stop feeding and watering Bermuda grass before overseeding.

Residents of the West: Take full advantage of a second growing season. Bring culinary creativity to your dinner table by planting fall favorites such as carrots, fennel, potatoes, herbs, parsley and dill, which add extra flavor to your cooking. Grow beautiful cool season flowers like snapdragons, pansies, sweet peas and foxglove. Divide spring-blooming perennials, and plant wildflowers, ground covers and roses. Prepare grass for the season by aerating and feeding. Look forward to spring by pre-chilling bulbs like tulips, hyacinth and crocuses.

Members of the Midwest: The vibrant colors and bountiful harvests of summer fade into fall, but incorporating a few simple ideas can ensure the beauty of your garden lasts well into the autumn. Begin by adding colorful plants like mums and ornamental kale that will grow through the coming months. Fall weather is ideal for planting trees and shrubs - insert long-lasting tree spikes into the soil now for winter feeding. It's also a great time to plant edibles: lettuces, broccoli and other quick-growing, cold-tolerant vegetables can still thrive in the temperatures of the fall. Lastly, planting daffodil, hyacinth and tulip bulbs now will ensure a vibrant spring.

Natives of the Northeast: Transition your garden from summer splendor to fall finery in style by planting annuals that will add liveliness. Pansies are perfectly suited for cooler temperatures, as are chrysanthemums, and jewel-toned ornamental kale. While enjoying your still-blossoming garden, dig and store tender bulbs, like dahlias, cannas, gladioli and tuberous begonias, which could be damaged by the chill of winter. Interested in a little landscape? Fall is a great time to plant deciduous trees and shrubs. Feed properly so these have enough nutrition to survive the winter.

Courtesy of ARAcontent http://www.aracontent.com/images/11140_B44_rgb3.jpg Tips for keeping your garden truly organic 8045140204 (ARA) - The trend for gardening at home continues to grow - and people are taking a particular interest in raising their flowers and vegetables organically. With such prominent figures as Michelle Obama taking public initiatives in organic gardening, more and more products that cater to the trend are appearing.

Unfortunately, the increased interest in organic gardening has led to some confusion - and some deception - about what it means for a product to be "organic." The labeling of products has become a minefield for consumers who are interested in eco-friendly agriculture. It can be difficult to know exactly what is meant by products labeled "natural," "plant-based" or "organic."

Official organic labeling comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Their seal comes in a few forms, denoting whether a product is "100 percent organic," "organic," or "made with organic" ingredients. Unfortunately, anecdotal evidence suggests this multi-tiered labeling system is also contributing to consumer confusion.

For example, for a product to be labeled 100 percent organic, everything in it must be certified organic. If it says just "organic," that means that it must contain 95 percent certified organic ingredients. If a product contains 70 percent organic ingredients, it can be labeled as being "made with organic [ingredients]." Any product with less than 70 percent organic ingredients cannot carry the USDA seal.

Another thing to keep in mind is that a product labeled "natural" is not organic. While there might be some naturally occurring ingredients in the product, it doesn't mean that it's safe or earth-friendly - not to mention organic.

Perhaps in an effort to simplify the consumer's "organic" label options, the USDA also directs consumers to other organizations that can help them determine whether or not the products they're buying are 100 percent organic. One of those, the Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) is a non-profit, independent organization that gives reviews of products and how they stand up to the National Organic Standards from the USDA.

For concerned consumers, they provide a comprehensive list (available online) of products that pass the test. "OMRI's list is an invaluable tool for gardeners who want to keep their plots organic," says Claude Boisvert, president of Tree World Plant Care Products. "It makes it easier than ever to find gardening supplements that are not harmful to the environment."

If your main concern in planting an organic garden is providing your family with safe-to-eat, healthy food right from your own back yard, you'll want to take the trouble to make sure you're using truly organic gardening products. At the same time, you want your garden to look great and produce well.

One of the biggest challenges to organic gardening is keeping pests away in a way that is humane and safe. For smaller pests, it is increasingly easy to find organic insecticidal soaps that are safe unlike some traditional pesticides. Larger garden plant browsers can really wreak havoc unless you use a rabbit or deer repellent. An OMRI listed solution, developed in eco-conscious Sweden and now made in the United States, is Plantskydd. Its effectiveness and environmental soundness as an organic repellent have made it popular for farming and among gardeners, professional landscapers, nurseries, foresters and state conservation agencies.

It's important to remember that you have the power to influence the products that are available to you. If keeping your organic garden truly organic is important to you, discuss your concerns with local retailers. By asking them to stock products that have been subject to rigorous standards, like those of OMRI, you'll make it easier for everyone in your community to have access to verified organic materials. http://www.aracontent.com/images/10144_B2_rgb3.jpg Four ways to improve your home's beauty and resale value 8048910101 (ARA) - In a tough housing market, homeowners want to improve their home's beauty and functionality, while adding resale value. This may include choosing products that reduce maintenance, save energy, improve appearance and offer protection from the damaging forces of nature. Here are some tips for problem areas that could benefit from the latest home solutions:

Timeless decks with natural looks

In the past decade, alternatives to wood decking products have made many claims of low-maintenance. However, if your deck has stains and is in an environment that breeds mold and mildew, maybe it's time to look at some new options on the market. If your decking product contains wood fibers, it may be absorbing stains and getting scratched in everyday use.

"There are low-maintenance products that give homeowners a rich selection of deeper deck shades, tropical hardwood looks and durable, sturdy railings that complement these colors," says Mike Gori, deck expert for AZEK Building Products, maker of AZEK Deck. He says the secret is cellular PVC technology, which resists food stains - even red wine - and stands up to the most high energy kids, dogs or neighborhood deck parties. Low-maintenance decks also increase your home's value because they economically add living space and are easy to clean.

Lattice entertain you

If you think your outdoor planters and window boxes cannot have detailed lattice work and scrolled designs because of a high moisture environment, think again. There are natural looking materials that support plant life and won't rot, split or warp, even with continuous watering and sunlight. For example, Walpole Woodworkers features the Freeport Collection of low-maintenance cellular vinyl boxes and planters that look like the real thing and have classic detail and lattice designs.

These durable items do not need liners and come with pre-drilled drainage holes. Beautifully crafted window boxes are charming accents to your home and bring color right outside your window. Adding architectural details also makes your home stand out in the neighborhood. The company offers free catalogs at (800) 343-6948 or visit www.walpolewoodworkers.com.

Stay pumped, go green

Following one of the wettest winters on record in many areas of the country, keeping your home safe from damaging flood waters is critical. Now, there are sump pumps that offer maximum protection, save energy and are very easy to install. They also feature backup battery pumps and alarms for extra protection in case of power outages. This increases peace of mind for homeowners and could be a make or break selling point.

The experts at WAYNE Pumps advise that if your sump pump is more than 10 years old, it may need to be replaced with new technology. "Our sump pump hydraulic expertise has evolved to where we can offer pumps that move more water faster using up to 50 percent less energy," says President Joe Mauro. "We've also developed features like quieter operation and the new iSwitch that uses a microprocessor to sense rising water levels before they could become a problem." He points out that investment in a reliable sump pump and battery backup system is minor compared to the damage water can do to valuables, family heirlooms and your home's resale value. Self-testing features to keep backup pumps in top shape and wireless alarms offer even more layers of protection for your home. For more information, visit www.waynepumps.com.

Repair cracks to prevent future damage

A small crack in your driveway or cement steps can become a crater, due to harsh weather and temperature changes. Crumbling concrete or cracked driveways can detract from curb appeal and reduce resale value. However, if properly sealed with the right caulk product, your outdoor masonry or blacktop areas can be repaired without continuing to deteriorate. You can also seal off energy leaks and keep out damaging moisture, indoors and out, such as around windows, receptacles and under the door step.

"We've been developing new caulks, such as our new RD 3000 advanced sealant line formulated to move and remain flexible once cured, allowing more stability through climate changes or pressure," says Jason Ringling, marketing director at Red Devil, Inc.

He noted that driveways, concrete steps and walkways can experience movement from car and foot traffic and endure the freeze/thaw cycles of the seasons. "You need a durable sealant that stands up to the elements to prevent the damage from spreading," he says. Always look for products specifically for concrete, blacktop, gutters and windows and doors. A simple caulk job reportedly can save you up to 20 percent in energy bills and big bucks in outdoor repairs.

Homeowners can make informed, smart choices about products that will improve their home's resale value and add enjoyment to their current lifestyle.

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