Palouse Living, May 2015

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May 2015Moscow-Pullman Daily News

The many benefitsof hiring a professional landscaper

2 | May 2015 | Moscow-Pullman Daily News PALOUSE LIVING

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Moscow-Pullman Daily News | May 2015 | 3PALOUSE LIVING

The flowers are blooming, and the grass has begun to grow

anew, making spring a great time for homeowners to once again turn their attention to landscaping.

Those who aren’t looking forward to dusting off their lawnmowers and rethreading their string trimmers may want to hire professional landscapers to tend to their lawns and gardens.

A recent joint study by the National Gardening Association, Residential Lawn and Landscape Services and the Value of Landscaping found that homeowners spend roughly $45 billion per year on professional lawn and landscape services, as nearly 30 percent of all households across the United States use at least one type of lawn or landscape service.

The rising use of lawn care services is indicative of homeowners’ appreciation of the convenience and craftsmanship professional services can provide. While the impact

professional landscapers can have on a property’s aesthetic appeal is considerable, homeowners also benefit from working with professional landscapers in various other ways.

· Time savings: One of the biggest benefits of leaving lawn care to the professionals is the amount of time it will save for the average homeowner. Lawns generally need to be mowed once per week during the spring and summer seasons and, depending on the size of the property, that can take an hour or more. Add the time it takes to clean up clippings, mulch landscaping beds and edge the property, and homeowners can expect to devote a significant chunk of their weekends to caring for their lawns. Lawn services employ a few workers who make fast work of the job, leaving homeowners time to enjoy their weekends however they see fit.

· Reduced risk for injury: Maintaining a landscape is hard work, and those unaccustomed to this type of activity may find themselves winded or at risk of injury. Improper use of lawn equipment also is a safety hazard. Leaving the work to professionals can help homeowners avoid strained backs, lacerations, pulled muscles, sunburns, and any other dangers that can result when tackling landscaping projects.

· Financial savings: On the surface, hiring a landscaping service may seem like a costly venture. However, after crunching some numbers, many homeowners realize that doing the work themselves may cost more in the long run than hiring a professional landscaping service. Homeowners who decide to go it alone must purchase expensive equipment, and those lawn tools will require routine maintenance, which costs additional money. Inexperienced homeowners may incur extra fees to “fix” mistakes that occur during the learning process. Each year, new seed, fertilizer, mulch, pesticides, and other supplies also must be purchased. But professional lawn care services typically charge a set fee per month, and that fee covers the maintenance of both your property and the equipment needed to keep that property looking great.

· Know-how: Many professional landscapers know how to address lawn care issues that may arise throughout the year. They will know how to deal with dry patches of lawn or poorly draining areas, and they also can make recommendations on plants that will thrive under certain conditions.

· One-stop shopping: Certain landscaping services provide many different options for prospective

customers. Basic lawn cuts may be one package, but there also may be services for seasonal seeding, weeding, leaf clean-up, and winterizing.

· Consistent maintenance: Homeowners who frequently travel or spend much of their summers away from home often find that lawn care companies are a wise investment. Established weekly schedules ensure the landscape always will look its best whether homeowners are home or out of town.

Spring is a great time for homeowners to decide if hiring professional landscaping services is in their best interests. The time and money saved, as well as impact professional landscapers can have on a property, makes landscaping services a great investment for many homeowners.

The many benefits of hiring a professional landscaper MetroConnections

Time saved and a professional job are just two of the reasons homeowners hire lawn care companies.


In the not-so-distant past, home improvement projects all but

came to a halt, as homeowners were weary about investing any money into fixer-uppers. But the tides have changed dramatically in recent months, and homeowners are again ready and willing to invest big dollars into home renovations.

Renewed confidence in the economy and an upswing in the real estate market have contributed to the remodeling frenzy. In early 2014, the Joint Center for Housing Statistics of Harvard University forecasted nearly $150 billion in major remodeling spending over the year. JCHS said as homeowners gain more confidence in the housing market, they’re more likely to undertake home improvements they would have avoided in recent years.

While the numbers do not yet match pre-recession remodeling spending, the number of construction projects has steadily trended upward.

According to the National Association of Home Builders, as of November 2014, a greater number of remodelers reported higher business activity than during the previous quarter. Remodeling spending has been gradually climbing back up from the all-time low it reached in 2009.

This growth in home renovations has led to more jobs for carpenters, plumbers, painters, electricians, and other construction workers. In Massachusetts alone, a recovery in overall construction employment has led to a gain of about 18,000 jobs during the past four years.

The Home Improvement Research Institute expects an additional 5.8 percent sales growth in home improvement spending in 2015. States that showed the highest levels of home improvement spending in 2014 are likely to continue to hold the top spots through 2015, and the National Association of Home Builders says

these areas include the District of Columbia, Connecticut, New Jersey, Maryland, Massachusetts, and areas of southern California.

Americans are not the only ones increasing their home spending. According to reports released by Moneris Solutions Corporation, Canada’s largest credit and debit card processor, purchases at home improvement stores rose by 8.49 percent over the same period last year, and spending on plumbing and heating equipment and electrical contractors climbed by 5.14 percent and 5.08 percent, respectively. Spending patterns indicate that homeowners are investing in DIY projects as well as seeking specialized work provided by professional contractors.

Now is a good time for the real estate and home improvement sectors, as homeowners have renewed their fervor for making home renovations, both to increase comfort in their homes and make their homes more buyer-friendly.

Remodeling spending increasesMetroConnections

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Many homeowners recognize that improving and maintaining

a property makes a home more livable for its inhabitants and more attractive to prospective buyers when the time comes to erect a “For Sale” sign in the front yard.

But a well-maintained home also provides additional benefits. According to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, home improvements not only raise the values of individual homes, but they tend to raise neighborhood standards as well. Home improvements can create jobs and help local communities flourish economically.

Maintaining a home can be a costly undertaking. Home improvement projects can be expensive whether homeowners hire professionals or tackle renovation projects on their own. The following are a handful of options homeowners can consider as they look for ways to finance renovation projects.

· Paying outright: Paying for the renovations upfront and in full is perhaps the simplest way to finance a project. Homeowners who have the cash to pay for renovations outright won’t have to worry about interest

rates or balloon payments.

· Mortgage refinancing: Some homeowners tap into their home equity to cover home remodeling projects. Refinancing a mortgage means paying off the debt owed and starting over with a completely new loan. Refinancing comes with various fees and can cost between 3 and 6 percent of the loan’s principal.

· Home equity loans and lines of credit: Both of these options are commonly referred to as second mortgages. When homeowners apply for home equity loans or lines of credit, they are borrowing against the equity value in their homes. A home equity loan is a term, or closed-end, loan. It is a one-time sum that will be paid off over a set amount of time with a fixed interest rate and the same payment each month. This is a one-time loan from which a person cannot borrow further. A home equity line of credit, or HELOC, is like having a credit card. It’s possible to borrow a certain amount for the life of the loan, which is a set time specified by the lender. During this time, homeowners can withdraw money as it is needed up to the value of the line of credit. HELOCs typically have a variable interest rate

that fluctuates and payments can vary depending on the amount of money borrowed and the current interest rates.

· Title I property loan: Residents of the United States with limited equity in their homes may qualify for an FHA Title I loan. Banks and other lenders are qualified to make these loans from their own funds, and the FHA will insure the lender against a possible loss. Title I loans can be used for any improvements that will make a home more useful and livable. They cannot be used for renovations deemed luxury expenses.

· Borrow against retirement funds: Some people opt to borrow against a 401(k) plan, IRA or another retirement fund. If the retirement plan allows a loan without penalty, it can be another way to secure funds. Because it is the homeowner’s money, there will be no credit check required and less

delay in getting the funds. Borrowers should keep in mind that taking a loan against a retirement account will usually result in a lower retirement balance than it would have been had they not borrowed money from the account - even after the funds have been repaid.

· Credit cards: Credit cards are an option when improvements are not expensive. Individuals with excellent credit ratings may qualify for cards with a no-interest introductory periods of several months or more. These cards can be a good way to pay off moderate improvements in a short amount of time.

Many home renovation projects require homeowners to develop a home improvement budget. Homeowners are urged to explore all options and find the least costly loan method and the one that will present the best possibility for avoiding debt.

How to finance your home improvement projectsMetroConnections

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Blood Orange Molasses Cookie Dough:

2 cups all purpose flour2 tsp baking soda2 tsp ground cinnamon2 tsp ground ginger1 tsp ground clovesPinch of salt1 cup packed light brown sugar¼ cup molasses¾ cup Blood Orange Evoo**1 large eggSugar and Spice Dipper** for

rollingVanilla Bean Sea Salt**

1. Whisk together the flour, baking soda, spices, and salt in a medium bowl. In another bowl, combine the brown sugar, molasses, oil, and egg until smooth. Mix the dry ingredients into the wet, stirring until dough comes together. Cover and chill for 20 minutes or more.

2. Preheat oven to 375. Scoop dough by the heaping tsp (or desired size) and roll into balls. Roll balls in sugar and spice mixture and place on sheets 2 inches apart. Bake 8 min or when crackly on top – for crispy cookies try 9-10 min.

3. Cookies will be very soft but will firm up after a few minutes on baking sheet. Remove to wire rack to cool completely.

For Ice Cream Sandwich:

Place one scoop of slightly soft vanilla ice cream between 2 cookies. Roll ice cream edge in Sugar and Spice Dipper and Vanilla Bean Sea Salt. Wrap each sandwich in plastic wrap and freeze. Remove from freezer a few minutes before serving. ** Ingredients available at Ampersand Oil & Vinegar Tap House

Blood Orange Ice Cream SandwichCourtesy of Ampersand Oil & Vinegar Tap House

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Many homeowners take up gardening to transform their

homes with beautiful flowers and foliage, while others do so to yield fresh fruits and vegetables. But gardening can be more than just a weekend hobby. In fact, it may be especially beneficial for homeowners to surround themselves with more plants and natural decor, whether in the yard or in the home.

Studies have indicated that gardening can be good for the mind and body. In addition to improving mood and reducing stress, plant life and gardening also may help people have a more hopeful outlook on life. If reaping the benefit of a beautiful landscape is not reason enough to get into gardening, elevating your mood and coping with depression or illness may be even further motivation to start developing your green thumb.

Home-design trends seem to be following suit, offering individuals more opportunities to surround themselves with potentially therapeutic plants. Explore these emerging and established garden décor trends to try in and around your home.

· Living wall planters: A living wall planter can add greenery to any décor without taking up floor or table space. Ideal for outdoor structures, these planters also can be used indoors if you safeguard against leaks and dripping. A living wall planter is a framed device that houses plants

in a manner that enables them to be vertically mounted to a wall surface. While there are commercially available models, you can create your own design and paint or stain it to match the existing décor. Use a soil-free potting substrate to avoid the mess that regular soil may create.

· Combining fish with gardening: Enjoy the best of two relaxing worlds by installing a water feature in your yard. Garden retailers offer ready-made kits that can make fast work of establishing a pond or other water feature in the backyard. Otherwise, there are plenty of water garden companies and installers who can suggest a design and put in your desired water features. Add fish suitable for outdoor life to your pond. These include koi and certain goldfish varieties. Game fish are discouraged because they can destroy pond plants. If an outdoor pond is more maintenance than you desire, consider an indoor aquarium with a combination of fish and live aquarium plants.

· Creative furniture designs: Maybe you’re a person who appreciates the unique and whimsical? Tables, benches and chairs can be built with planting channels that enable you to have greenery and garden décor in one piece. Envision a picnic table with a cutout down the center for a thin row of plants or decorative grasses. This

is a project the entire family can get behind, as the more creative ideas the better.

· Improved outdoor lighting: People who like to spend time in their gardens and yards may not want to be limited by sunrise and sunset. By incorporating different lighting sources, you can create a retreat that is welcoming at any hour. Although flood lights and overhead lights can illuminate a space, consider ambient and decorative lighting to create the desired ambiance.

· Functional fire pits and places: A blazing fire creates a cozy spot to gather on chilly evenings, but fire pits and fireplaces also can be used as impromptu cooking spots for s’mores or frankfurters on a stick. You can purchase a stand-alone fire pit from any number of retailers or build your own with patio pavers and fire bricks to line the interior of the fire

pit. Outdoor fireplaces require more work, and you want to hire a mason to ensure proper installation.

· Enjoyable yard additions: While plants and seating may take center stage, some people still want to have fun in their yards. There’s an increased demand for yard designs and décor that can put the fun in backyard living. Bocce courts, ring- or horseshoe-toss setups, as well as bean bag-toss boards, can be incorporated into landscape designs, giving you yet another reason to spend a few hours in the great outdoors, where you can experience a few healthy laughs in the process.

Gardening and spending time outdoors are great hobbies and may even boost your mood. Homeowners can explore the popular trends in garden décor and natural elements that they can enjoy inside and outside of their homes.

Garden-inspired decor brightens spaces and moodMetroConnections

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Gorgeous and functional bathrooms add value to a

home, so renovating this room is always profitable in the long run. Keep in mind that this type of project requires a fair bit of preparation and the following of some specific steps.

1. The plan. This is your starting point. It allows you to identify your needs and style preferences, and to set a budget. Plumbing could be costly if you decide to change the layout of the basics, such as the toilet, bath, and sink.

2. Stripping the entire room. Tearing everything down and starting from scratch is often easier than trying to save a few details. Ventilation in a bathroom is an important factor in preventing mold in the home. This is the time to install a fan suitable for the size of the room you’re ventilating.

3. The floor. This is the best place to start your rebuilding. It is also an ideal opportunity to install underfloor heating if you’re using plywood sheets.

4. Bathroom fixtures. Bath, shower, or both? Just a toilet, or accompanied by a bidet? A vanity, or two vessel sinks on a floating countertop? It all depends on your taste and your lifestyle, or on your target audience for resale.

5. Wall coverings. Ceramic is one of the ideal wall coverings for renovating a bathroom. In addition to being sold in a multitude of designs, ceramic tiles stand the test of time and are easy to maintain.

6. The finishing touch. Paint and accessories give the perfect finishing touch to your dream bathroom. For the paint, be sure to choose one specifically designed for bathrooms; it is designed to provide better resistance to moisture.

Yes, renovating a bathroom is a huge project, but supported by experts and armed with some good advice, you’ll feel proud of all your work and increase the value of your property.

Six steps to a new bathroom Newspaper Toolbox

Many of today’s working professionals grew up in

single-income households where only one of their parents went to work each day. But that once-common dynamic is now largely a thing of the past, as economic necessity has driven both moms and dads to continue their careers even after they have had children.

That reality has led many working parents to lean heavily on afterschool programs to serve as safe havens that provide structure for their kids while mom and dad are still at work. Choosing an after-school program is a decision many parents find difficult, but there are some questions parents can ask during their searches for programs that should make those decisions easier.

Can I tour and observe the facility?

When considering a particular

afterschool program for their children, parents should ask to tour the facility, paying specific attention to the areas of the facility where their youngsters will spend the bulk of their time. Do the classrooms look clean? Are the materials up-to-date? Is the playground equipment safe and well-maintained? Well-maintained facilities with new supplies and equipment can make the program more enjoyable and safer for kids.

Parents also should ask to spend some time observing the facility when it is abuzz with activity. Such observation can give parents an idea of what their kids’ afternoons will be like should they enroll in the program.

What is the program schedule?Schedule is a significant issue for

working parents, many of whom want a program that is open on holidays when schools are closed. Flexibility also is a concern for working parents,

some of whom may need a facility that is open before school starts. Parents also may want a facility that allows youngsters to attend just a few days a week, which might make certain programs that require parents to commit to full weeks less enticing. When discussing the facility schedule with staff members, be sure to get as specific a schedule as possible, inquiring about any additional costs associated with extending the typical schedule as well.

What are the activities available to the kids?

Many afterschool programs provide more than just a place for kids to sit and do their homework until their folks come to pick them up. Many programs try to offer an array of activities that range from academic programs to athletic events and more. A wide range of programs can increase the chances that youngsters will find activities that pique their

interests and make the afterschool program more enjoyable.

How are staff members vetted?Parents also may want to ask

about the program’s hiring practices. Ask about the background checks performed on staff members and if the facility requires any specific certifications for staff who will be dealing directly with children.

When asking about hiring practices, parents also may want to inquire about the ratio of staff members to children. The smaller the ratio, the more attention youngsters will receive. Facilities with an especially high ratio of staff to children may not be able to provide the type of environment parents want for their children.

Finding an afterschool program requires parents to exercise their due diligence. Parents who can be patient and learn as much about facilities as possible are more likely to find the right fit for their children.

Questions to ask when looking for an afterschool programMetroConnections

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The arrival of warmer weather changes the landscape

completely. Animals come out of hiding and hibernation while trees and flowers bloom anew.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology says nasal allergies affect approximately 50 million people in the United States. Allergic diseases, including asthma, are the fifth most prevalent chronic diseases among people of all ages and the third most common in children. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, can occur in spring, summer and/or early fall. People who experience hay fever often can attribute their symptoms to sensitivity to pollens from trees, grasses, weeds, or airborne mold spores.

No two allergy sufferers are alike, so medications that may work for one person may be only mildly effective for another. Many medications can cause side effects, which may be

just as frustrating as the initial allergy symptoms. Treatments may target sneezing and itching but fail to clear up congestion. Drowsiness, dry mouth and nasal irritation may be side effects of common allergy drugs.

People who want to avoid allergy medication can look to natural remedies to alleviate their symptoms. Whether used alone or in concert with traditional medicine, these remedies may make spending time outdoors more pleasant.

· Try probiotics. Probiotics, those friendly bacteria that reside in the digestive system, can do more than just treat an upset stomach. Naturopathic doctors say that probiotics also can influence the immune system and may help strengthen its response to common allergens. Since probiotics are good for replenishing healthy bacteria in the body anyway, many people may want

to keep taking them once their allergy symptoms have come and gone.

· Use neti pots or saline sprays. A small amount of saltwater can rinse away allergens, such as pollen, that get lodged in the nose. These rinses also can help clear up congestion and flush out any other irritants.

· Load up on omega-3s. A German study published in the journal Allergy found that participants who ate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids were less likely to suffer allergy symptoms than those who didn’t regularly eat these foods. Omega-3s can help fight inflammation. Drinking more fluids and using spices in cooking can

help flush out allergens as well.

· Don’t forget vitamin C. Vitamin C is an immune-system booster and may help prevent the formation of histamine in the body, a substance responsible for many allergy symptoms.

Natural ways to beat seasonal allergiesMetroConnections

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When you’re looking at the big job of building a new home,

your budget is the first consideration, of course. How much capital you have and how much financing you can access determine whether you hire a contractor or do some or all of the work yourself.

You’ll deal with a general contractor. A contractor is responsible for all aspects of the building of your home, according to the design and plan you ask him or her to use. The contractor, or builder, should be licensed and reputable, as you’ll be expecting him to build according to code. Make sure your chosen contractor has a good knowledge of building standards in your area and good references from other clients.

You’ll do it all yourself. If you decide to be your own contractor, you should first contact the association that governs your local building code. You may be required to obtain a license

or hire licensed subcontractors for certain jobs. It is your responsibility to ensure that you meet all building standards if you hire relatives or friends to help you.

More optionsHowever you go about having

your home built, there are some considerations to take care of before you proceed.

· Find land. Your first step should be to find some land in your area of choice. Before buying a lot, check with the municipality to ensure your project complies with all standards and codes. Otherwise, you might end up with a lot where you can’t build a new residential home.

· Choose your plans. There are several options: you can shop around for ready-made floor plans; choose one from those offered by the contractor you hire; or work with an

architect to design your own home.

· Choose a prefab home. If you choose this route, you’ll have plenty of options. Prefabricated homes are available in modules or panels and are assembled with the help of the manufacturer and a specialized contractor.

· Choose a housing development. Your job may be easier if you decide to go with a housing developer that offers pre-prepared lots and a repertory of floor plans. However, be sure to check the background

of the contractor in charge of this development and take the time to study the plans and terms before signing the preliminary contract.

How to go about building a new home MetroConnections

Pink? Yes, this color is hot in 2015. It hasn’t been on the

home decor charts for quite a while, but now we’re all catching up. Are you daring enough to try it?

Of course, there’s no question of painting your walls bright pink. The idea is to use it to add pep, femininity and even a touch of daring to your home. Why not add a pink pillow to your white sofa or put a fuchsia bench in your kitchen? You could also hang pink patterned wallpaper in your front hall or your bathroom.

You want a warm and modern decor? Choose a mix of pale pink, white and copper, and Bob’s your uncle. You’d rather have a glamorous

and sophisticated look?Combine pink with black. You’d like

an elegant touch? Add some grey.The trend is towards warm and

glamorous pinks that are great for any room as long as you use it with moderation. Be daring and try different shades. Go back to your childhood with candy pink; use sugared almond pink to create a cozy room that cries out “TLC.” Awaken your taste buds with pink sorbet, or add a touch of character to your home with fuchsia.

If you’re looking for a color that brings optimism, peace and the joy of living into your home, then look no further: pink is perfect.

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Summer is a season for landscaping, and homeowners

who live in regions that get especially hot in the summertime often worry that their lawns won’t make it through the dog days of summer looking lush. But lawns don’t have to succumb to the sizzling summer sun. Oftentimes, the right watering strategies can help homeowners nurse their lawns through the hottest months of the year, ensuring the lawns make it to autumn looking as green as they did back at the height of spring.

· Reconsider when you’re watering. Come summertime, homeowners may want a glass of water at high noon, when temperatures seem to be at their hottest. But you and your lawn are different, so the best time to satiate your thirst is not necessarily the best time to water your lawn. Watering in the middle of the day is

often ineffective, as water tends to evaporate quickly in the afternoons when temperatures are peaking. Nighttime watering can contribute to the growth of fungus, which can create an entirely new set of headaches for homeowners. Morning watering sessions tend to be most effective during the summertime, as temperatures tend to be cooler in the morning, leading to less evaporation. Less evaporation means all that watering isn’t going to waste.

· Reconsider your sprinkler. If you can’t afford an in-ground irrigation system, which many landscaping professionals feel is the most effective and efficient way to water a lawn, then you likely will rely on a sprinkler to keep your lawn looking lush through the summer months. When choosing a sprinkler, look for one that shoots water out horizontally as opposed to vertically. A vertical sprinkler system

is more vulnerable to wind and evaporation than one that shoots water out horizontally, so make sure your sprinkler system is sending water into your lawn and not into summer breezes.

· Avoid overwatering. How much water your lawn needs in the summertime depends on a host of factors, including where you live and how often rain falls in that region. Overwatering can promote the growth of fungus and adversely affect your lawn’s root system, making it difficult for roots to grow deep. Speak with a local landscaping professional to determine how often you should water your lawn each week.

· Strategically position your sprinklers. When choosing where to put down your sprinklers, hook them up to your hose, turn them on and then watch to see where the

water is going. Areas that exposed to sun are most in need of water, so make sure the bulk of your water isn’t going to shaded areas beneath trees. In addition, make sure you aren’t wasting water on sidewalks, patios and driveways. Sprinklers should be positioned so none of the water they’re shooting out is landing on surfaces that don’t need water. It sounds simple, but too often homeowners drop their sprinklers down, turn them on and then walk away without waiting to see where the water is landing. Position sprinklers or adjust sprinkler heads so all the water is landing on your lawn.

Keeping a lawn lush and green at the height of summer requires homeowners to adopt effective strategies. Such a strategies can make the difference between a lush landscape and one that succumbs to summer heat.

Watering tips to produce healthy lawnsMetroConnections

Men and women with green thumbs often take pride in

their lush lawns and gardens, feeling a sense of accomplishment as their landscapes spend spring and summer returning to form and making yards more inviting spaces to spend relaxing summer nights.

But even the most well-maintained lawns are not immune to problems that can compromise all the hard work men and women put into their lawns. One such problem many homeowners encounter is a grub infestation. Grubs are a type of pest that can cause considerable damage to lawns, and while many homeowners have no doubt heard of grubs, they might want to learn more about these pesky pests so they know what to do should grubs ever appear in their yards.

What are grubs?Grubs are insects that live in the

soil, where they feed on grass and roots. Many grubs are the larva

of Japanese beetles, and those beetles typically lay their eggs in sun-drenched areas of lawns in midsummer.

What are signs of grub damage?Grubs not only damage lawns

on their own, but they serve as food sources for local wildlife as well, attracting wildlife, which can do its own damage to lawns.

Lawns can turn brown for a variety of reasons, and grubs are just one of many potential culprits behind the browning of once-luscious landscapes. Grubs feed on roots, so homeowners who suspect their lawns have fallen victim to grub infestations can pull up the areas where grass has turned brown to see if there are any grubs, which look like worms.

Landscapes that have suddenly become popular among local wildlife that is digging up lawns may also be infested with grubs. Skunks and raccoons feed on grubs, and may dig

up lawns where grubs are present.Damage resulting from grub

infestation is most visible from late summer to early fall.

Can grub damage be prevented?Preventing grub infestation typically

requires homeowners to keep watchful eyes on their lawns. Pay particular attention to areas that begin to brown, especially areas that are turning brown in spite of adequate watering. An early indicator of a grub infestation is small grubs around the roots of grass. In such instances, applying insecticide may be enough to prevent a small grub problem from spreading.

Insecticides also can be an effective preventative measure for homeowners looking to avoid grub infestations. Speak with a local landscaping professional for recommendations about which insecticide to apply and how best to apply it.

What can I do about grub damage?

Attempting to treat grubs in the spring may be ineffective, as grubs are large and no longer feeding in spring. So homeowners dealing with grub infestations should address the situation before they retire their green thumbs for the winter. Remove debris from grub infestations with a rake before watering the affected areas. Watering can help some damaged roots recover, but areas that have been especially damaged may need to be reseeded.

Grub infestations can be a nuisance to homeowners who put lots of time and effort into their lawns. But homeowners can take steps to treat such infestations and prevent them from returning the following summer.

Going after grubs in your lawnMetroConnections


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Palouse Living, May 2015