March 2023 (233)
Featured Video:
Applying Wood Stain & Sealer
Spring is the perfect time for outdoor projects. If you have wood surfaces that need new life applying wood stain and sealer is a great DIY project. The right product and proper application will give you fantastic results that can last for years. Jim and many contractors use Ready Seal because of it is easy to use and gives a professional finish every time. Use it on new projects or update your deck, fence or any outdoor wood surface.
Your Questions -- Jim's Answers
Crunching Under Floor Tiles
Ron has noticed small cracks in his floor tiles and a crunching sound when walking in one area. Jim explains the cause and if it can be fixed.
Your Alarm System Battery
If you have an alarm system listen to this. Jim shares great information from Charles how the power outages will effect your alarm system batteries.
Lawn & Landscape Care
The National Association of Landscape Professionals is a great resource for home owners as you get your lawn, gardens and outdoor living spaces ready for spring. They have some great tips for getting the best start for your yard this spring.

  • Inspect your trees and shrubs. Start your spring spruce up with a thorough inspection of your yard. Look for any branches that might be broken or damaged and prune them or have them removed by a professional.
  • Fertilize your lawn. The decision about whether or not to fertilize should be based on the nutrition requirements needed by your soil conditions. It is important to know your lawn's needs so you get the amounts and timing right.
  • Fertilize trees and Shrubs, too. Most plants, trees, and shrubs will benefit from proper fertilization with a slow-release product just before mulch is applied.
  • Control Weeds. Spring is a good time to apply pre-emergent weed control for weeds such as crabgrass. The term weed can be used to describe virtually any unwanted plant. Weeds can smother vegetables, dominate lawns, and make landscapes less attractive and less enjoyable. Proper lawn and garden care, however, can keep weeds under control.
  • Make planting beds neat and tidy. Rake the old leaves and debris from plant beds and create neat, natural edges around the beds using an edging tool.
  • Add an inch-thick layer of fresh mulch in plant beds and around trees. Don't let the mulch touch tree trunks and never let the mulch accumulate to more than a 3-inch depth. Mulch not only makes planting areas look neat, but also helps to retain moisture in the soil, keeps roots cool in the summer, and insulates them in the winter. As mulch decomposes, it adds organic matter to the soil.
  • Inspect your irrigation system. Once the weather has warmed up for the year, turn on your irrigation system and inspect it to see if it is in working condition. If you have a landscape or irrigation company, they can do this for you.

Get advice, ideas and access to landscaping professionals near you:
Thanks for listening - Jim Dutton