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Homegrown: New Plant Hardiness Zone map
A young Oriental bittersweet vine makes its way up a tree trunk on Marilynn KellerA warming trend is evidenced in the new version of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Plant Hardiness Zone Map, its...
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Homegrown: Growing plants from food
Avocado Photo Illustration. How to slice an avocado Step 5. It’s still a bit early to start plants from seed, but Linn County Master Gardener, Lisa Slattery, points to a fun way during winter to add a...
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Hospitable homes
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio glaucus) on Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii) Marion Co., IL (Richard Day photo/Daybreak Imagery)CEDAR RAPIDS — You don’t need acres of land to create your...
View ArticleEnergy: Small changes can pay off big
By Mary Beth Breckenridge/Akron Beacon Journal So what does save energy in a home?Not surprisingly, consultant Michael Blasnik urges homeowners to have a blower door test done and to address big issues...
View ArticleCounter intelligence: America’s love affair with granite
By Monica Hesse/The Washington Post In the beginning God created the heavens and the Earth, including a form of igneous rock called granite, a mass composed mostly of silica and aluminum that makes up...
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Redecorating can be cheap, free even
By Terri Sapienza/ The Washington PostMy name is Terri, and I’m a serial redecorator.After photo of finished chairs Eddie Ross redid.I admit it, and I’m not ashamed. Because as vices go, I don’t think...
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Understand the new rules about lead paint dust
If your home was built before 1978, a new regulation could affect your remodeling or renovation project. A new federal law requires remodeling contractors who could possibly disturb lead paint during...
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Homegrown: Growing school gardens
(from left) Trinity Cooper, Rhaelynne Smestad and Ashley Hartl move plants after watering at the greenhouse at Taylor Elementary School in Cedar Rapids on Thursday, April 14, 2011. The fourth graders...
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Stay misty for me
The Swiss hot steam humidifier from Hammacher Schlemmer boils water to eliminate bacteria and viruses before sending out the hot steam. (Colorado Springs Gazette/MCT)By Korky Vann/The Hartford...
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Easy kids’ room updates
The options are almost endless when it comes to freshening up the look of kids’ bedroomsA coat of colorful paint and wall decals make for a fun child's bedroom.or play areas. Just a few easy updates...
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Make a statement with hardwoods
The walnut insets on this cherry sideboard combine for an eye-catching look.Just as with other home products, hardwoods go through cycles of popularity with builders and homeowners. While maple has...
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Paint Pointers
Whether updating and freshening up the paint color in your home or selecting interior colors for a new home, the choices can be overwhelming.When trying to select an interior paint color, use a piece...
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Cedar Rapids projects strive to recycle, salvage materials
The demolition of the old TrueNorth Companies building is under way in downtown Cedar Rapids on Jan. 4. (Dallas Houtz.The Gazette)The majority of demolition materials generated since the massive June...
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The kitchen
Make sure your new or remodeled kitchen is not just pretty to look at, but functions to meet the family’s needs, too.If a new kitchen is in your future, the Cedar Rapids Home Show will feature a number...
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From friendly neighbor to next-door nemesis
Even the best neighbors can infuriate you. (Liz Martin/TheGazete)By William Hageman/Chicago TribuneEven the best neighbors — the c’mon-over-for-a-cookout neighbors, the we-baked-you-some-brownies...
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Coffee tables enter a ‘golden age’
Technology uses, tastes in interior design transform the familiar coffee table. (Allison Long/Kansas City Star)By Stacy Downs/McClatchy Newspapers KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Coffee tables with two levels has...
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Don’t rule out fruit trees, even in a small garden
Colby Eierman thinks of the home gardener who may shy away from growing their own fruit wiht "Fruit Trees in Small Spaces." (Bill Hogan/Chicago Tribune)By William Hageman/Chicago TribuneEverybody likes...
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Time to get gardening seeds, supplies ready to go
It's time to get your gardening supplies ready. (Liz Martin/The Gazette)By Denise Ellsworth/Akron Beacon JournalGather your seeds and supplies: It’s nearly prime time to start seeds for this year’s...
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Bring the feeling of spring indoors
Spring’s new growth and warm sunshine provide inspiration for renewal in our lives. That can apply to the home, too. Pack away the heavy textures and colors of winter in favor of breezy fabrics and fun...
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Outdoor Living
Thinking about creating an outdoor oasis where you can enjoy the spring and summer days and evenings? Now’s the time to get started – especially if your dream space includes a new deck. Create a...
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