93°F
weather icon Cloudy

Home and Garden

Bay laurel trees struggle with hot temperatures

Q: Our sweet bay laurel trees face east and are watered by a drip irrigation system on a separate line for trees only. Obviously, these trees are not doing well. They were originally 24-inch boxed trees planted in 2013. Our HOA contends they are close to the end of their lives, and they will be removed. Any ideas?

Several possible reasons recirculating pump not working

There are several possible reasons for not getting hot water after a new water heater installation. Recirculating pumps need electricity to run, and so it may be as easy as plugging the unit back in or testing the outlet for power.

THE LATEST
Consider xeriscaping to save water

Matthew Fichera, the Nevada area regional manager for Moon Valley Nurseries, said the most beneficial step to achieve water conservation goals is reduced outdoor water use.

Refresh shower by regrouting, recaulking, replacing outdated fixtures

there are a few things you can do that will make you feel modern and clean again without totally breaking your budget. You can start by regrouting, recaulking and replacing your outdated shower handles and showerhead with new modern ones.

Plumbing supply store will have replacement parts

Many newer showers use a single-handle shower valve and a tub spout diverter, rather than a diverter valve in the wall. Getting replacement parts for the diverter in the wall may not be as easy as going to a home center, so you will likely have to make a trip to a plumbing supply store.

Strong wind in spring can damage young leaves

Strong winds are particularly damaging in the spring when leaves are new and tender. Strong winds equal increased water lost by plants. The sudden death of leaves right after strong winds signals a need for water.

Attract pollinators to your garden

Local plants attract local pollinators, which helps the entire ecosystem.

Reinstalling shower arm is easy fix

There shouldn’t be any movement in the shower arm, only in the showerhead. It may be that the riser wasn’t strapped to the wall, or it may be that you need to reinstall the shower arm.

1 4 5 6 7 8 179