Q: My oleanders need trimming. They are still blooming and the weather is hot. Is it safe to trim them now or did I miss my opportunity?
Home and Garden
Q: A while ago you wrote about how to install a recessed can light. I already have this type of light, but I am having a problem with it. After it has been on for a while, it will sometimes just automatically turn off. Is this a problem with the electricity, the fixture or what?
Dear Gail: We’re in the process of getting quotes to remodel our bath and want to do a frameless shower door. It seems like there is a bit of the range and honestly I’m not sure what some of the differences. Each company has a preference of what they like, so I’m needing some guidance? — Leona
Q: When do you cut back summer tomato plants to get a second crop in the early fall? I need to know this and any special treatment needed, such as fertilizing, to promote new growth.
“Stop playing it safe and become a bit more daring.”
“Your home should tell the story of who you are and be a collection of what you love.” — Nate Berkus (1971- ), American interior designer and television personality
Let’s face it, we live in a throwaway society; take, make and waste. We buy, consume and throw things away all day long, every day. Recycling can be a popular green activity we can all practice in our homes.
Concrete is gaining ground in the design industry. Its diverse uses and specialty finishes make it a simple, eye-catching way to create a comfortable, natural atmosphere with unique personality in the home.
Q: I am starting a bathroom remodel and would like to install a pedestal sink. It looks pretty easy to do, but I would like some guidance.
Q: We have an 8-year-old honeysuckle plant that will not produce blossoms. They get one or two blossoms each year but do not produce massive amounts. We tried various fertilizers to no avail. What can we do to stimulate blossoms?
If your summer plans include spending time outdoors, then finding shade is essential — especially during the day when the sun beats down and temperatures rise.
Q: I have a new Early Grande peach which produced more than 80 blossoms. I removed 50 of the fruit when they were small and harvested the rest when the fruit ripened. Now the leaves are turning yellow and dropping off. I am watering the tree for 40 minutes, three times a week so the tree is getting 16 gallons a week.
Only last week I was accompanying a client on a walk-through of her new custom home that was in the final stages of being dry-walled. That’s always an exciting time for both homeowner and designer because many of the fundamental elements in the building and design process finally seem to materialize for the first time and suddenly the home is “there.” It’s real, three-dimensional and the room proportions are what they are — for better or for worse.