Watering Newly Planted Trees and Shrubs

 

Newly planted trees and shrubs require a deep penetrating watering, in order to get the moisture deep into the soil in and around the entire root ball. This can be accomplished by using an open ended garden hose with the water pressure on a slow trickle in order to prevent runoff or flooding. The hose should be left in each area for approximately 20 -30 minutes for tree sand 10 - 15 minutes for shrubs. The hose will need to be moved several times in order to sufficiently water completely around the entire root ball of each plant.

 

Watering should be performed at a frequency of every three days for 2 weeks after planting and then once per week for another 2 to 3 weeks.

 

** Watering time will vary depending on the plant size and root ball size.  Also, follow the associations guideliens for water times and days.

 

** A bleeding soaking hose may be used for smaller shrubs. However, be sure to circle the root ball sufficient enough to get water penetration throughout the entire root ball area. Running a straight-line hose will not provide sufficient soil moisture. Avoid watering the foliage of plants continuously.

 

10 Tips for Fire Safety in the Home


It's always good to remember several tips for fire safety. By constantly reminding ourselves, we become better able to handle situations when it really matters.

Stop, Drop & Roll

Install and maintain smoke detectors

Practice E.D.I.T.H (Exit Drills in the Home)

Crawl Low in Smoke

Cool a Burn

Smokers need watchers

Space heaters need space

Be careful cooking

Practice Safety with Electricity

A match is a tool for adults

Information provided by: Cindy Mitchel from athenshomes.com

HOME SAFETY

  • Re-key all door locks if new homeowner.
  • Consider a monitored alarm system w/smoke detector.
  • Keep a working fire extinguisher in the kitchen and or garage.
  • Familiarize yourself where to turn off the electric and water in case of an emergency.
  • Test water heater temperature/pressure relief valve yearly, for proper operation.
  • Have a working flashlight for power outages.
  • Have your HVAC system checked yearly by a certified A/C Company.
  • Replace all batteries in smoke detectors.
  • Protect small children from shock, by covering all electrical outlets with protective covers, which can be purchased at a local home center.
  • Install locks on all cabinet doors with cleaning supplies, if you have small children.
  • Replace any broken or cracked windows, to avoid any future injuries, by falling glass.

Information provided by: prohomecheck.com

 

ENERGY SAVINGS

AIR FILTERS

Check your air filters at least twice a year (it is recommended every month). Clogged air filters cause your furnace to work harder

 

OUTDOOR LIGHT DECORATIONS

 

Utilize timers for outdoor lighting during holidays and only have them on until 10pm.  Why waste electricity when everyone is sleeping...

 

LIGHT BULBS

 

Spend a little extra money and purchase energy saving light bulbs to replace your regular light bulbs.  Not only do they save energy costs, but they also lasts much longer!

 

DO IT YOURSELF REPAIRS!

 

Save water! Repair any water dripping faucet or leaky toilet as soon as possible.  If you have a leaky faucet and notice its leaking between connectors, shut of your water supply which is located under your sink (make sure you turn of both HOT & COLD).  Turn your faucet on to drain remaining water. Take a plumbers wrench or equivalent and turn it left (righty tighty, lefty loosey), until it unscrews.  Go get yourself some plumbing Teflon tape and wrap it around clockwise couple of times on the pipe thread (faucet connects clockwise).  Go ahead and replace the faucet head.  Use wrench to tighten connector.  (HINT: use a soft cloth between wrench and faucet connector to prevent any markings). This is only a tip; please consult a professional if needed. 

 

If you have a bad stopper in your toilet, run over to the hardware store and get a replacement kit for under $10! It’s easy to install yourself, just follow the simple directions included with the kit.   P.S. don't worry the water is clean in the tank.

 

Tips provided by Reflections association homeowner Phil Han

Tips suggested above are of course...just suggestions, please use your best judgment or consult a professional if needed.