Garden almanac

This Week in the Garden

Well, this week in the garden is becoming more stressful. My apple tree is slowly falling over (it will be removed this fall after harvest). Some squash plants died because of borers.

Late Blight Fungus on Tomatoes

The tomatoes have been hit by early blight. Early blight is a fungus that causes the lower leaves to yellow and dry up quickly. Use a fungicide like Daconil to protect the nonaffected leaves. Pick off the yellow and brown leaves and throw them away. Water on the ground and do not use a sprinkler. This fungus has been worse this year with the warmth and humidity.

Sphinx Moth

Some people think moths are a problem this year. Moths are great pollinators. While not as pretty as butterflies, they outnumber butterflies by 5 to 1. They like trumpet-shaped flowers like moonflowers and datura. The big moth flying around now is the sphinx moth coming from the tomato hornworm. I did see several flower moths which were a bright furry pink but I did not have my phone to take a picture.

South Dakota Cicada

I have been hearing our annual cicadas humming. These are not the 15- or 30-year cicadas they have in the southern or eastern part of the country.

Cicada Killer Wasp

You may notice little hills with a hole in the top around areas with soil. These are cicada wasps that catch the cicadas, take them back to their home, and lay eggs on them. The eggs hatch and feed on the paralyzed cicada. They are harmless to humans.

Emerald Ash Borer

In our area, we have native ash borers that cause many problems. The emerald ash borer that has been found around Sioux Falls area has now been found around Brookings County. There are other great trees to plant than green ash trees.

Be careful of some of the homemade weed killers and insect sprays you can find on the internet. Some cause more problems for the plants and environment, especially the ones that use salt or acid (vinegar). For instance, using anything with an oil in it above 85 degrees will harm the plants.

Do not forget to deep water your young trees and shrubs with this upcoming heat wave.

Landscaping decor

Gardens are Magical Places

Gardens are magical places where nature and human creativity come together. One of the most enchanting ways to enhance your outdoor space is by incorporating antiques into your garden landscape. These pieces bring a sense of history, charm, and uniqueness that modern items often lack. Let’s dive into how you can infuse your garden with timeless elegance using antiques.

Finding the Perfect Antiques

First things first, you need to find the right antiques. Start by exploring local salvage yards, antique shops, and estate sales. These places are treasure troves of unique items, each with a story and character. When you find something that resonates with you, imagine how it might look nestled among your plants and flowers.

Don’t forget about online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, and specialized antique sites. You can find various garden-appropriate antiques, from vintage wrought iron gates to weathered statues. Just check seller ratings and reviews to ensure you’re getting the real deal.

Integrating Antiques into Your Garden

Now that you’ve found some treasures, it’s time to integrate them into your garden. Antiques make excellent focal points. Imagine a vintage sundial or an old stone bench becoming the centerpiece of your garden. Position these items where they can draw the eye and invite visitors to explore further.

Pairing antiques with the right plants can create beautiful, harmonious scenes. Picture a rusted iron trellis intertwined with climbing roses or an ancient stone urn brimming with cascading ivy. These combinations can evoke a sense of timeless beauty.

Pathways and entrances are also great places for antique elements. Old cobblestones or bricks can form charming paths, while a vintage gate can serve as a welcoming entrance that hints at the delights within.

Practical Considerations

When it comes to practicalities, keep in mind that antiques, especially those made of metal or wood, can be susceptible to the elements. Treat wooden items with sealant to prevent rot, and apply rust-resistant paint to metal pieces to ensure they last.

Security is another consideration. Some antiques can be valuable and may attract unwanted attention. Make sure heavy items are securely placed, and consider discrete security measures for smaller, more portable pieces.

Personal Touches

Every antique has a story, and incorporating pieces that resonate with your personal history or passions can make your garden even more special. Perhaps an old farm tool reminds you of your grandparents’ garden, or a Victorian-era statue reflects your love for classic art. These stories add layers of meaning to your garden.

Don’t be afraid to mix different styles and eras. A 19th-century wrought iron bench can look stunning alongside modern sculptures and contemporary plants. The key is to balance and blend elements in a way that feels cohesive and natural.

Conclusion

Incorporating antiques into your garden landscape is more than just a design choice; it’s a way to create a space rich with history, charm, and personal significance. Whether you’re an avid antique collector or just starting, these timeless pieces can transform your garden into a living work of art. Embrace the beauty of the past and let it blossom in your garden today.

Home Buying, Real Estate (Commercial)

Home Buyer’s Remorse: Addressing Regrets After Pandemic Purchases by Katie Conroy

The rush to purchase homes during the pandemic led many to quick decisions driven by the fear of missing out, competitive markets, or the need to change the environment. As the dust settles, some have regrets, facing realities that don’t align with their initial expectations. If you are among those who feel trapped in an unsuitable home purchase, there are several steps you can take to mitigate the situation and potentially turn things around. This Shippy Realty & Auctions article will explore strategies to help you regain control of your housing situation and financial stability.

Consult an Expert

If you’re unsure where to start, meeting with a financial advisor or real estate expert can provide clarity. These professionals can offer tailored advice based on your specific circumstances, helping you understand your financial standing and what options are viable. They might suggest refinancing your mortgage at a lower interest rate or exploring less obvious solutions that could be available to you. Connect with Shippy Realty & Auctions today!

Dialogue with Your Lender

When mortgage payments become a burden, proactive communication with your lender is essential. Many lenders have programs designed to assist homeowners who are struggling financially. Options may include restructuring your loan, temporarily reducing payment amounts, or forbearance. It’s crucial to understand that lenders generally prefer to find ways to keep you in your home and avoid foreclosure.

Secure Your Documents Digitally

Digitizing your home-related documents can enhance security and simplify access. As you organize and safeguard your records, consider this option to maintain optimal control and efficiency. Opt for a mobile scanning app that converts physical papers into PDFs with your device’s camera and offers features like password protection and file compression. This technology helps keep your critical financial documents both secure and easily manageable.

Explore Rental Opportunities

Selling your home might not always be the best solution, especially if the market conditions are unfavorable. Renting out your home can be an alternative that brings in additional income. This approach covers your expenses and buys you time to make a more informed decision about your long-term housing needs without the pressure of immediate financial strain.

Assess Your Long-Term Financial Health

Take an honest look at your finances to determine if you can sustainably afford your home in the coming years. Assess your income stability, monthly expenses, and any other financial obligations. It’s also an excellent time to consider whether adjustments can be made to your spending to better accommodate your mortgage.

Seek Out Assistance Programs

Explore both government and community assistance programs available for homeowners in your circumstances. These programs can extend various types of support, such as financial aid and counseling services. They are designed to offer a buffer that can help stabilize your financial situation. Connecting with these resources can be a significant step toward recovering your financial balance.

Reflect on All Possible Options

Take adequate time to analyze all available options thoroughly. Hasty decisions partly caused your current predicament, necessitating a more cautious approach now. Deliberate carefully about the advantages and drawbacks of each potential solution. Consider how each choice impacts your financial stability and personal happiness in the long run.

Lean on Your Support Network

Buyer’s remorse can be a source of significant stress and feelings of isolation. Make an effort to connect with friends, family, or professional therapists who can provide support. A strong support network offers emotional relief, practical advice, and alternative perspectives. Such support is invaluable as you navigate through this challenging time.

While buyer’s remorse is challenging, it doesn’t have to define your future. By taking deliberate, informed steps, you can address the immediate challenges while planning for a more stable and satisfying long-term housing situation. The strategies discussed here offer a starting point for those looking to resolve their post-pandemic home-buying regrets.