energy
Outdoor watering smarts. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average American uses 100 gallons of water a day — enough to fill 1,600 drinking glasses. Yet last year, 54.6 percent of the United States experienced abnormally dry or drought conditions. With this in mind, Monday from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., The Home Depot will offer free, Do-It-Herself Workshops on “Landscaping and Outdoor Water Conservation.” Company representatives also compiled these yard-watering tips:
Make sure plants have a generous supply of mulch over their roots. Three to five inches of mulch will help hold moisture in the soil and prevent evaporation from the soil surface. Fine-textured mulches, such as pine straw, mini-nuggets and shredded hardwood, do a better job of conserving moisture than coarse-textured mulch.
Directional watering, using a hand-held hose to apply water only to those plants that show signs of wilt will help conserve water. Priority should be given to newly planted trees and shrubs or those that have been installed within the past four months. Water these plants every seven to 10 days during the absence of rainfall.
Annual and perennial plants generally have a higher demand for water. Begin watering at the first sight of wilting. Some perennials like sedum, gaura, day lilies and ornamental grasses are extremely drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without rainfall or irrigation.
space
Allergen-free home. Allergies and asthma strike one out of every four Americans, according to Steven Hong, home health specialist and president of . He offers these ideas for forging a healthy, happy and allergen-free home.
Tackle pollen. As seasons change, the air becomes saturated with tiny airborne particles that trigger runny noses, sneezing and itchy eyes. Eliminate these particles with an economical air purifier.
Address humidity. Mold is a major cause of allergies. An Energy Star-rated dehumidifier will both control humidity and keep electric bills low.
Keep your cool. Stay cool this summer with an air conditioner that cools, dehumidifies and filters the air — rather than using fans, which can recirculate dust particles. Portable air conditioners offer the flexibility to be used in any room.
Clean up after Fluffy. Dog and cat dander is a major cause of allergies. To control it, clean furniture, carpets and floors regularly with a vacuum that features a built-in HEPA filter.
