The post "Houseplants That Can Survive Weeks Without Water" appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.
Do you love having houseplants but forget to water them? If you’re like us, your perfect home would be filled with greenery—lush hanging potted plants and counter and tabletop plants everywhere. But again like us, your forgetfulness probably gets in the way of your plant-filled dream. And, your busyness. Amazingly, though, some houseplants can survive weeks without water. That means, you can have the green and lush home you want without having to constantly replace dead plants or worry you’re going to kill them. All plants indeed need water and most require it regularly. But, many species thrive on minimal watering and several can live up to a month without a drink. Here are some gems of houseplants to consider if you’re away from home often, too frenzied to deal with regular plant watering, or just plain prone to forgetfulness.
Rubber Plant
Also known as Ficus elastica, the rubber plant is a fast-growing houseplant that does best in low- to medium-water conditions, meaning you only have to water it moderately every 15 days or so. During fall and winter, rubber plants require even less water—a good dousing every month or so. The rubber plant loves bright filtered sunlight and can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors, in the right conditions.
Spider Plant
The spider plant needs a bit of attention (regular watering) in its initial growing phase, but if you can get past that, you’ll be good to go with a beautiful plant you only need to water now and then. When fully grown, water your spider plant every seven to 10 days during spring and summer. In wet and humid conditions or cold weather, you can get away with watering it every 20 to 30 days.
Snake Plant
The snake plant is perfect for the forgetful gardener. In most indoor conditions, you only need to water it every 10 to 20 days (depending on where you place the plant). During winter and in wet weather, you can ignore it even longer. This gorgeous and hearty houseplant has striking dark-green sword-like leaves, sometimes with cream, silver, or white variegation. It thrives in low to bright light and grows up to four feet tall.
ZZ Plant
Leave a ZZ plant without water for a month and it’ll be as vibrant as ever when you pay attention to it again, as long as you place it in indirect sunlight. This easy-to-care-for houseplant loves a good soaking and then prefers to be left alone for a few weeks. Too much water causes rhizome rot, which can kill the plant. This slow grower has a stunning leathery look and can get up to three feet tall and wide.
Cast Iron Plant
The cast iron plant is another houseplant that only needs occasional watering. It actually does best in low water conditions, so saturate it and then don’t touch it again until the top level of soil dries out. If cared for properly (which we trust you will), this lively plant will grace your home with beautiful dark green foliage that grows up to two feet tall.
Succulents and Cacti
Succulents and cacti thrive in the desert, so they’re going to love receiving minimal water in your home. They’re tough and do extremely well in dry soil. You’ll only need to water them every month or so because they retain water in their leaves. Just make sure your succulents and cacti get plenty of sunlight and place them in a pot with drainage holes.
Zebra Haworthia
The zebra haworthia, also called zebra cactus or zebra plant, is one of the easiest houseplants to care for. It stores water, so it can thrive for days in dry soil (you’ll only need to water it when the top layer of soil looks dry). Zebra cactus also loves bright, indirect sunlight. It stays small—less than a foot tall and wide—and is an attractive plant that goes well with modern decor.
Sago Palm
The sago palm is a popular slow-growing plant that gives a space a tropical look. It loves dry soil, and once it establishes its root system, you only need to water it every two to three weeks. Sago palms have striking leathery dark-green fronds that can grow up to three feet long and the plant can get up to five feet tall.
Aloe
The aloe plant also carries water in its leaves, so it can thrive for up to four weeks without watering (if you place your aloe in the sun, you may have to water it a little more frequently). This beauty that has spiky, toothed leaves is one of the easiest houseplants to care for. A healthy and happy aloe plant can reach up to three feet in height.
Are you looking to sell or buy a new home? Let Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® walk you through the process.
Source: Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life
The post "Essential Home Maintenance Tips for End of Winter Storms" appeared first on Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life.
If you haven’t performed your annual home maintenance checks this winter, don’t think you can avoid them because the season’s almost over. End-of-winter storms are wreaking havoc on homes across the country, and homeowners who don’t maintain their properties to combat storms will likely incur costly repairs and possible health risks. Heavy wind, rain, ice, and snow can threaten your home’s structural integrity and damage critical systems. Frigid winter temperatures usually force homeowners to rely on indoor heating systems that may fail if not taken care of properly. Don’t be caught off guard because the weather is fine now. Attend to crucial yearly maintenance as soon as possible to save money, stay safe, and keep peace of mind. Here are some essential home maintenance tips you can review and take action on to avoid the surprise of damaged property, unsafe conditions, and costly repair bills.
Inspect Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Chilly weather often prompts homeowners to fire up the furnace or gather around the fireplace. For those who don’t have properly functioning carbon monoxide and smoke detectors, however, warm days and nights indoors might turn into family health risks. Make sure you test your detectors and change the batteries at least once this season, and keep in mind that carbon monoxide detectors typically last for three to five years, while smoke detectors last for eight to ten years.
Protect Pipes
Don’t neglect your plumbing if you live where water freezes. Protect your pipes from freezing and bursting by taking preventative measures like installing frost-proof spigots or closing interior shut-off valves leading to outdoor faucets. Wrap pipes in unheated areas, such as in basements and attics, with insulation.
Get a Furnace Inspection
If you haven’t had someone inspect your furnace this winter, it’s time to hire a professional. Faulty furnaces can cause fires that put homes and lives at risk. Additionally, older furnaces aren’t as energy efficient as modern ones, so having an expert check your system could lower your heating bill.
Inspect and Sweep Fireplaces and Chimneys
Fireplaces and chimneys cause almost three in ten fires associated with heating systems. This is reason enough to get a winter safety inspection on these systems if you haven’t already. But, consider too that you can get carbon monoxide poisoning from a blocked chimney or flue. Homeowners are also wise to do an annual check themselves for anything flammable set within a three-foot zone of a fireplace opening.
Clear Gutters
Before the next winter storm rolls around, ensure your gutters are clear of leaves, branches, and other debris that can cause water to pool and freeze over, leading to a blockage. If you see icicles hanging from your gutters, this is a good indication that a problem already needs immediate attention. Ice dams in gutters can fall and injure someone or build up to the point where they threaten your home’s exterior.
Check Exhaust Vents
Natural gas appliances like furnaces, water heaters, and fireplaces work overtime during winter storms, all emitting exhaust that must be directed outdoors. It’s important to check your exhaust vents for blockages and ensure all flap traps open correctly. Otherwise, hazardous fumes may enter your home and pose a health hazard. Additionally, blocked vents and traps can be a fire risk if materials trapped inside get too hot and combust.
Maintain Outdoor Utility Equipment
Outdoor utility panels and meters must be clear of ice and snow to function properly and safely. If you haven’t given your utility equipment a winter check, do it before the next storm hits. Remember that you should never use heat to melt ice or snow from a utility panel or meter. Also, avoid hitting the panel and meter if you have to shovel snow around them.
Put an Emergency Kit Together
Harsh and violent winter storms may cause power outages, block exterior doors, and bring on other issues that disrupt your comfort and safety. Be prepared by having a well-stocked emergency kit in your home. Stock your kit with extra food and water (for babies and pets, too), an emergency blanket, foot and hand warmers, medications, bandages, clothing, a flashlight, an ice scraper, a Swiss army knife, and a two-way radio (hand, battery, or solar-powered). As extra safety measures, ensure all household members know your family’s evacuation plan and all pets have an ID tag on their collar.
Do you want to talk to a real estate professional about getting your home ready to sell this winter or in the upcoming months? Contact Better Homes & Gardens Real Estate® for a consultation.
Whether you just purchased your dream home or you're looking to refresh your home, painting is a great first step! Here are some tips to make painting any room of your home seamless and cost-efficient!
Guide to Paint Finishes
Once you know which room you want to paint, deciding what finish to use is an easy step before deciding on color!
- High Gloss - the most durable and easy to clean
- Semi-Gloss - high durability, good for kitchens, bathrooms, and trim work
- Satin - high durability, good for high-traffic areas, easy to clean - cons: not easy to touch-up and reveals application flaws
- Eggshell - medium durability, essentially no-shine with little luster, covers imperfections well
- Flat or Matte - medium to low durability, soaks up rather than reflects the light - con: tough to clean without taking off paint
This guide provided by HouseLogic is a great tool to use!
How to Pick Paint Colors for Any Room
- Making a small room appear bigger - paint the walls white, cream, pastels, or cool colors
- Making a too large room feel less cavernous and more cozy - paint the walls with warm colors and darker hues
- When you want a soothing vibe - paint the walls a soft, understated color or muted tones
- Sample paint colors on multiple walls of the same room
- Use large brush strokes, so you get a feel for the color
- View the samples at different times of day to see how it looks in various lighting, especially at night when there are lamps lit
- Also view during different types of weather
Tips for Choosing the Right Paint Sheen
"If your paint color is dark and rich but you don’t want a super shiny effect, step down at least one level on the sheen scale. That’s because the darker and richer the paint color is, the more colorant it has, which boosts sheen. Ditto if you’re painting a large, sunwashed, or imperfect wall. The higher the sheen, the more defects will show. Adding sheen also increases the cost, usually an extra couple dollars of per gallon as you step up on the sheen scale." (houselogic.com)
Sources:
https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/painting-lighting/paint-sheen-guide/?site_ref=mosaic
https://www.houselogic.com/remodel/painting-lighting/how-to-pick-paint-color/?site_ref=mosaic
With the change in the seasons it is a great time to get a jump on prepping your home before the real cold weather hits!
What to do Outdoors
- Clean and store your yard tools: including prepping mowers by using a fuel stabilizer
- Remove and empty garden hoses from faucets
- Drain your sprinkler system
- Clean your gutters
- Inspect your roof from the ground: call in the professionals if you notice any signs of damage to your shingles, or moss and lichen growth
What to do Indoors
- Check fire extinguishers: after six years they need to be emptied and reloaded
- Check your furnace
- Give your fireplace a good check
To read more, check out these great articles from HouseLogic!
Sources:
https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/fall-checklist/?site_ref=mosaic
https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/september-home-maintenance-plan/
When you're thinking about selling your home, decluttering is a great first step! Here are some ways to make the process easier.
1. Come Up with a Timeframe
Once you know when you want to sell your house creating an attainable timeframe is key. That way it is more manageable to tackle the decluttering process. Once you know your timeframe for selling it'll make breaking up the process easier, whether you have weeks or months before listing.
2. Break Up the Process
Depending on your timeframe come up with a goal for decluttering. Whether it is one item each day or one area at a time. Maybe breaking up the process by category would work best for you, such as clothing, kitchenware, holiday decorations, etc. By making the main goal into small attainable projects, it will make the overall process a lot easier to overcome!
3. Write a List
A great way to help keep your decluttering goal on task is to write a checklist. It's so fulfilling to check off an item!
4. This is Still Your Home
While decluttering is great, don't declutter just to declutter. Your home does not need to look perfect in order to sell, but organizing and staging your home will help potential buyers imagine themselves in the space. Plus, it will make the photographs of your home look even better!
5. Is this a Job for Me or the Professionals?
If you have no idea where to start or feel overwhelmed by the process, hiring professionals might be your best option! There are great companies that can show you how to organize and declutter your space by teaching tricks that will help you in the future.
6. What to do After You Declutter
While you are decluttering it would be a good idea to create different piles or bins for every item you no longer need. Instead of throwing everything in the trash, make a donation, sell, or gift piles, that way your no-longer-needed items can go on to another home.
Contact us for more useful tips if you are thinking of selling! For the best selling, buying, or renting experience, call "The Best Team in Town" at 603-526-4116!
Sources:
https://www.stpaulrealestateblog.com/clean-declutter-eliminate/
https://www.homelight.com/blog/how-to-clean-out-a-house-to-sell/
- NO PLACE LIKE HOME
There is a newfound appreciation for and focus on what’s most important in life – family, health, and home. - INVESTED IN HOME IMPROVEMENT
Major shifts in time spent at home is accelerating investment in major (and minor) home improvements. - FLEEING TO THE SUBURBS
Millennial urban-dwellers are resettling to the suburbs in search of more space and closer proximity to loved ones. - AGING IN PLACE
Boomers and multigenerational households are updating spaces to allow for ‘aging in place.’ - RETURN OF THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Reconnection with their neighborhood has homeowners investing in backyard and porch improvement which support everyday relaxation and kids play. - CALMING SCENTS
More people will invest in diffusers and candles which bring a sense of calm and self care to home spaces. - IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS
Desire for creating more personalized (and private) home spaces is boosting demand for window treatments. - LIGHTENING UP
Lighting sales are trending as homeowners create modern, energy efficient, tech smart and productive home spaces. - FRESH COATS
While ‘smaller weekend’ painting projects spiked last year (front doors and accent walls), interest is now shifting to more expansive projects. - ALL ABOUT DIY
Homeowners are using their newfound confidence, skills and tools to take on DIY painting, refurbishing furniture, etc. - GETTING PERSONAL
More time at home – and new home sales – is boosting demand design and décor items which bring a more personalized vibe to homes. - OUTSIDE IN
As desire for healthier homes has many people filling their homes with plants and ‘living décor.’ - INSIDE OUT
In search of additional space and safer environments, homeowners are investing in outdoor ‘living spaces.’ - ALL ABOUT ORGANIZATION
Decluttering and organizing continues as many seek to minimize stress and support multifunctional spaces. - MULTI-PURPOSE SPACES
With many homeowners anticipating working from home permanently, many are investing in home offices, fitness areas and study spaces. - SPENDING ON STORAGE
Many people are showing a willingness to investing high quality storage solution which deliver style and function. - SMART TECH EXCITEMENT
Smart Home tech is moving mainstream as people become more confident in its benefits and ease of use. - SOUGHT-AFTER SMART PRODUCTS
Many people are most interested in self- install smart home solutions that boost streaming, safety and cost savings. - CONCERNS & CONSIDERATIONS
People continue to be concerned about smart tech’s potential impact on their family’s privacy. - CATERING TO HER KITCHEN
A renew commitment to cooking and eating at home has more families exploring kitchen upgrades. - RESTROOM RE-DO
Increased focus on self-care (and accommodating more crowded home spaces) is boosting bathroom re-dos. - THE WHY BEHIND THE BUY
Durability, value and flair will continue as the most critical purchase influencers. - THE EASE OF E-COMM
Convenience, savings, and product variety will support online shopping for home goods. - OMNICHANNEL IMPORTANCE
With retail selected most often as the preferred home goods shopping environment, foot traffic will surge as more shoppers are vaccinated.
Patios, decks, lawns and gardens have become our centers for relaxation and entertaining. As people continue to spend more time outdoors, homeowners are imagining how to make the most of their outdoor spaces throughout 2023.
Outdoor Spaces
OPEN-AIR OASIS
With a desire for peaceful escapes, expect to see more outdoor workspaces, structured outdoor rooms, portable heaters, water features, and patterned concrete/ decking. A great example is repurposing sheds into offices, playhouses, or relaxing retreats.
FUN, FUNCTIONAL FURNITURE
Furniture pieces that bring greater comfort, style, and function to their outdoor spaces are trending. Think rocking chairs, wicker sofas, or alfresco dining options.
SMALL SPACE, BIG IMPACT
As long as you have some containers, topsoil, and seeds, you can turn your balcony or rooftop patio into a personal garden sanctuary. Sprucing it up with decór also adds to the ambiance.
NIGHT LIGHTS
Modern lighting solutions make spaces feel cozier, more defined, and more relaxed while boosting function and safety. String, globe, LED and solar options add a warm ambiance in outdoor areas.
EXTENSIONS ON DECK
Entertain rain or shine with large-scale pergolas that make patios and decks useable in light rain or bright sun.
PRIVACY, PLEASE
We’re seeing an interest in solutions that increase privacy such as hedges, trellises, screens, or shades.
NATURAL FLOW
Larger windows, multi-sliding glass doors, bifold doors, and other upgrades are popular among homeowners seeking more natural light and fluid extensions to outdoor areas.
Garden
CUTTING GARDENS
Buying flowers is expensive. More gardeners are planting annuals, perennials, and shrubs for cutting gardens to produce colorful, homegrown bouquets throughout spring and summer.
GARDEN OF ABUNDANCE
We’re seeing less interest in fussy, manicured landscaping and more in a natural, wild-yet-tamed look for shrubs and trees.
YARD TO TABLE
Homeowners are growing more of their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs to boost self-reliance and lean into hobbies that support relaxation and reward.
360 FLARE
Outdoor spaces have become precious commodities, so we’re seeing a more holistic approach to gardening. Homeowners are boosting curb appeal, hiding outdoor equipment, or investing in hardscapes — with a focus on landscaping materials with neutral colors and rich raw textures.
ALL NATURAL
Homeowners are looking for more natural ways to get rid of weeds, repel garden pests, address plant diseases, or fertilize the lawn.
Greener Living
ELECTRIC ALTERNATIVES
It’s important to keep your yard neat and healthy, but traditional lawnmowers can be expensive. Electric lawnmowers are often more affordable than their gas counterparts in price, running costs, and maintenance needs.
WATER WISE
There are several drought-tolerant shrubs, trees, vines, and flowers that can thrive without frequent rainfall. These plants will help minimize the time and money spent on watering the garden.
SMARTY PLANTS
People are interested in more sustainable, environmentally friendly ways to garden by implementing smart solutions and tools for maintenance and water conservation.
DOING IT THEMSELVES…
New and seasoned DIYers continue to embrace the satisfaction gained from reinvention and renovation projects, at all price points.
…AND BRINGING IN THE PROS
The best backyards take years of work. The key to a smooth process is to plan every step and use a professional service, even if that means planning years in advance.
With spring approaching soon, it's a great opportunity to take the time and make a list of things to do around your home to prepare for the change in the season.
1. Deep-Clean Your Entryway
With the winter weather comes snow, salt, and winter gear. When the last snow falls it's a great opportunity to tidy up and do a deep-clean of your entryway to be ready for spring! Give your floors, baseboards, and rugs a good cleaning to feel refreshed.
2. Check your pipes for leaks
If you live in a colder climate pipes can freeze. So if you are able to access your pipes easily it's a good idea to check them for any leaks or cracks. If your water ever stopped or trickled out of the tap, than the pipes may have frozen, so it would be a good idea to call a professional to have them check everything.
3. Wash interior and exterior windows
When the weather starts warming up I always take the time to clean my windows to make my place feel refreshed! Plus when the sun shines through the windows it's nice to see them clean!
4. Make a plan for spring cleaning
What are some cleaning or de-cluttering projects you've been putting off? Spring is the perfect time to tackle them! With the warmer weather you can open the windows and fill your place with fresh air!
Sources:
https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/cleaning-decluttering/how-to-fix-a-muddy-yard/
https://www.storespace.com/blog/how-to-get-your-home-ready-for-spring/
With winter storms still in full swing, now is a great opportunity to prepare yourself and your home for any power outages or extreme winter weather! "The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends having these items on hand, especially if you want to prepare for being a home several days without power."
1. Make Sure You Have Emergency Supplies
- Snow Shovels and Deicers
- Extra fuel, firewood, full propane tank, or generator
- Clean blankets and clothing
- Water and food that does not require refrigeration
- Medication and any special items for members of the household
- Pet food
- Soap, hand sanitizer, disinfecting wipes, and cleaning supplies
2. Make an Emergency Supply Kit
- Water
- Non-perishable food
- Battery-powered radio
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Extra batteries
- Whistle
- Dust mask
- Plastic sheeting and duct tape
- Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties
- Wrench or pliers
- Manual can opener
- Local maps
- Fully charged backup battery for cell phone
3. Take Steps to Winterize Your Home
- Check roof tiles, shutters, siding, and other exterior materials
- Make sure gutters are clear
- Seal air leaks around the home
- Insulate all exposed plumbing pipes
- Trim tree branches away from your roof
Now, when a snow storm hits you can get cozy in a blanket knowing you're prepared for anything!
Sources:
https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/home-maintenance-tips/protect-your-home-cold-weather-threats/?site_ref=mosaic
https://www.ready.gov/kit
January is a month for new beginnings and resolutions! It is also a great month to get re-focused and re-fresh your home for the year ahead! Here are five tasks that homeowners and renters should add to their January lists.
1. Deep Clean
Spend some time tackling those spots you've been putting off. Wipe down kitchen cabinets with a damp cloth with a few drops of Dawn dish soap and warm water. Dust those baseboards. Give your fridge a nice cleaning inside and out. Anytime you do a normal clean, add one deep cleaning task and it will be less daunting!
2. Clean Filters
This is a great time of year to check all of your filters and see if they need to be cleaned or replaced. Filters should be changed or cleaned at least once a year to be more effective. Check your dryer, dehumidifier, air filter, and any other items you have in your home.
3. Get Organized
While you're deep cleaning take the time to go through some places that need a re-fresh. Go through and organize that full storage closet or empty out that junk drawer. Make a weekend out of it! Order some fun take-out, listen to great music and get organizing!
4. Fix It Weekend
Have a cracked switch plate, loose screws, or need to replace some light bulbs, spend the time coming up with a list and buying the supplies you'll need. Then pick a weekend to tackle all of these projects.
5. Look Ahead to Summertime Projects
Are you looking to have a new patio for summer? Now is the time to look for contractors, so you can spend the summer on that new patio.
Sources:
https://www.washingtonpost.com/home/2022/12/29/home-maintenance-checklist-january/
https://www.houselogic.com/organize-maintain/cleaning-decluttering/time-saving-tips/