Page 2 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026
Page 3 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Table of Contents 04: Tools for the home gardener 08: Solutions for raised bed gardening 12: Manage pests without pesticides with Integrated Pest Management 16: Selecting and caring for trees 22: Proper care for fine wood furniture 26: Humane ways to be rid of pesty vermin 30: Ways to increase curb appeal 34: MAXimizing Life with Maxine McQueen Now ‘Tis Spring
Page 4 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Tools Avid gardeners usually spend their time dreaming of the vegetables, flowers, and other plants they look forward to planting, growing, caring for, and harvesting once they are in the ground. They may not give too much thought to garden tools. However, what you choose to work with in the garden can make a big difference according to Lisa Wrage, an awardwinning local horticulturist with 50 years of horticulture experience using a wide range of garden tools. She presented her best advice to gardeners at the Logan County Master Gardeners Russel Allen Garden Day on March 22 in Lincoln. Her first emphasis was how important it is to buy quality garden tools because the investment is worthwhile. Quality tools make jobs easier with better outcomes because they are more ergonomically friendly and easier on the body, they stay sharp longer, contain better metals, and generally last longer. She recommends buying quality tools with replaceable parts when available. She only recommends buying cheap tools if you lose them frequently. Bright orange handles or adding bright green tape to handles can help prevent loss at garden sites or under mulch. When purchasing new tools, Wrage recommends first determining what kind of gardener you are. Are you hard core or more relaxed? Consider ergonomics and any personal limitations. Evaluate the task at hand and plan what you need, like a recipe. Top Five Gardening Tools 1. Tubtrug. A 10-gallon lightweight and flexible container for toting things. Red brand is durable with a handle that won’t crack. These containers are flexible and versatile for carrying clippings, tools, and supplies. 2. Hand pruners. When choosing hand pruners, think about the application in order to choose the best pair. Hand pruners come in both bypass and anvil varieties. A bypass pruner has a sharp, clean cut similar to scissors which is better for pruning live plants, shrubs, and trees. An anvil pruner cuts with a crushing mechanism, which does not produce a clean cut, but is useful for cutting dead wood. Wrage recommends goat shearing hand pruners for sharp, precision cuts and an easy grip. home gardener for the
Page 5 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 3. Hori-hori (Soil knife). This is a multipurpose tool which digs, chops, saws, weeds, and measures. It is approximately the size of a hand trowel and has a serrated edge and a notch for pulling small weeds. 4. Dutch hand hoe. These are excellent for hand weeding and can be purchased for right or left-handed gardeners. A Dutch hand hoe is more robust than a Japanese hand hoe. This tool can be sharpened once a year for optimum performance. 5. Floral shovel. This is a versatile, small shovel used for lighter applications. Floral shovels are good for precision as well as dividing bulbs and planting trees. The size and weight are good for women. Shovels are either stamped or forged with forged being stronger. New shovels need to be sharpened before use. Tools for Occasional Use 1. Folding saw. These are for cuts of branches larger than 1.75 inches. A folding saw will saw in both push and pull directions and the blades are replaceable. Be sure to find a saw that has a safety mechanism that prevents the saw from folding unintentionally to prevent injury. 2. Loppers. These are for larger cuts than a hand pruner, ranging from 0.75 to 1.75 inches. They have longer handles for reaching branches. 3. Hedge shears. These are for shaping shrubs such as yews and boxwood, and for espalier. They are lightweight and made from aluminum. Hedge shears leave a softer finish than electric hedge trimmers. Wrage stated that a good horticulturist looks like she was not there. 4. Garden hoe. Hoes are for use in vegetable gardens and for weeding larger areas. A trapezoid hoe allows extra precision and has a replaceable head. 5. Half-moon edger. This tool is for edging garden beds and sidewalks. New edgers need to be sharpened before use. A sharp blade makes it easier to use. 6. Garden fork. A garden fork generally has a shorter handle than a pitchfork. It is used for digging, turning compost, dividing perennials, etc. 7. Shovel. A shovel larger than a floral shovel is for larger applications. Just like the floral shovel, forged are stronger than stamped and the shovel should be sharpened before use.
Page 6 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 8. Garden rake. Rakes are for spreading mulch, compost, and topsoil in the garden. Leaf rakes are wider and more flexible for gathering leaves. Rakes may be made of plastic, steel, or other metal. Perennial rakes are more compact and good for getting around flowering things and under shrubs, and for clearing harder to reach areas around perennials. 9. Watering cans. Watering cans come in various sizes. Always water the ground surrounding the plant and avoid wetting the leaves. 10. Kneeling pads. Kneeling pads come in different sizes and thicknesses and are for comfort and knee health when working on the ground. 11. Personal Protective Equipment. Gloves help prevent infection, hats provide shade, and sunscreen prevents sunburn. Having a first aid kit handy is a good idea if gardeners follow the advice to keep tools sharp. Tool Care and Cleaning Clean after each use by removing detritus and soil. Wipe down the tools and let them dry. This helps prevent transmission of pathogens to different areas of the garden. After cleaning, coat the tool with WD-40. Smooth wooden handles with sandpaper and coat with oil once a year. Tool Sharpening Sharpening tools yourself can be a hassle because angles must be exactly right. Edge of Normal Workshop in Bloomington offers tool, knife, and scissors sharpening for reasonable prices. Clean the tools before taking them for sharpening. To sharpen manually, gardeners will need a file for the purpose. Only one side of the tool needs to be sharpened. Go against the grain and then on an angle. Only file in one direction. Use a vise for a sturdy grip and check out YouTube videos for demonstrations. A sharp, quality tool can make all the difference. As Abraham Lincoln said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” Having the right tool for the job and a highquality tool in peak form can aid the home gardener in numerous ways. Quality tools can be more efficient with less effort and better ergonomics, so the gardener can have an easier and more enjoyable garden experience. [Stephanie Hall]
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Page 8 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Solutions for raised bed gardening Whether you want to reduce the headache of weeds or avoid a backache, gardening in raised beds offers several benefits. Raised beds maximize small spaces and let you grow flowers or food. Save space and time with these methods—a combination perfect for a summer full of florals and flavors. The Old Farmer’s Almanac lists several advantages of raised bed gardening. Since you will be filling the raised beds, the soil will be less compacted, extending the growing season at both ends and resulting in higher yields. If your beds are high enough, they will also reduce physical strain.
Page 9 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Once you have considered the benefits, your next decision is to select the type of raised bed that best suits your needs. Wood, metal, brick, and fabric are the most popular materials for constructing beds. According to the University of Minnesota Extension, wood is the most common material for raised beds. It is relatively low-cost and easy to find. Hardwoods, such as cedar or hemlock, last longer than softwoods like pine or fir and may be a better investment. Fabric beds are lightweight, easy to assemble, and allow good drainage, but may not be as durable over time. Building on the choice of materials, the University of Minnesota has also found that metal is becoming more popular for raised gardens. There are several options for large or small containers, ranging from galvanized buckets to animal troughs. Galvanized buckets provide rust resistance but may leach zinc into the bed depending on soil acidity. Stainless steel is another viable metal option. Brick or pavers can provide a more aesthetic option with good durability, though they are often costly and require more installation effort. Shifting the focus from wood and metal, another material gaining popularity is fabric. Garden centers are now offering fabric grow bags. These bags come in a variety of sizes and are a cost-effective option. However, the University of Minnesota advised that there is limited research on the rise of microplastics leaching from the bags, which may be a potential drawback. Once you’ve selected your materials, the next consideration is location. In addition to soil selection, the University of Minnesota provides tips for choosing the best site for your raised beds or containers—an equally important step. Assess how many hours of sunlight your vegetables, herbs, or flowers need. If space is limited, use vertical areas such as trellises, cattle panels, or hanging baskets. With your chosen materials and beds in place, it’s time to fill them. Being able to control the type of soil you put into your containers is one of the advantages of raised bed gardening. Containers can be filled in a variety of ways. Some recommend cardboard or branches. The University of Minnesota recommends a combination of compost and topsoil. However, they advise against potting soil as it dries out quickly. After preparing your site and soil, the next step is choosing what to grow. For salsa lovers, all the necessary ingredients can be grown in one
Page 10 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 container. Bonnie Plants recommends starting at the edge with small plants, such as cilantro and onions. Move inward with medium-sized plants like jalapeno and bell peppers. Reserve the most space for tomatoes or tomatillos and remember these plants will need a cage or trellis for support. For this method, they recommend a 4-foot-by-4-foot space. The Old Farmer’s Almanac also provides several tips for the best plants to grow in your raised beds; you can avoid blocking the sun to shorter plants by planting taller plants on the north side of the beds. Tomatoes and peppers would need to be planted on the north side of the garden. If you are gardening near a fence, you can grow cucumbers on a fence or cattle panel. Some varieties of summer squash and zucchini are more compact and do not require upright support. Beans make a great option to grow in raised beds. You should also consider depth when planting root crops such as carrots. You can get a double crop if you plant radishes in early spring and then again in late summer, as they have short growing seasons. Leafy greens are also successful in raised beds, and if the beds are high enough, they can protect your crop from bunnies. The almanac also provides recommendations for growing fruits in raised beds. While many fruits are perennials, they can still be grown in raised beds; among them are strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries. They also offer recommendations to help fill your spice cabinet. Herbs such as oregano and thyme are well-suited to a raised bed. Many of the herbs are perennials, such as lavender, cilantro, and dill. They warn that mint is known to spread throughout the beds, but parsley and basil do not. For a splash of color in your garden and to encourage pollinators, dwarf sunflowers, zinnias, and strawflowers are recommended. Some flowers, like dahlias, require deeper beds, but bulbs can be a viable option. The bulbs will bloom in the spring, and then you can plant annuals for summer blooms.
Page 11 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Locally, you can purchase fabric pots at Ace Hardware in Lincoln. They have three- and five-gallon pots available and offer a variety of potting mixes for filling the bags. They have a variety of trellises to support any vertically growing plants. Ace also has a selection of garden tools and supplies for your gardening needs. Farm and Home in Lincoln has larger raised bed options. There are two sizes of raised garden beds to be assembled. On an even larger scale, they have outdoor animal troughs available. There is a large selection of flowerpots and potting mixes, as well as seeds, gardening tools, decorations for your raised garden beds, and more. [Joli Boerma] Sources: Almanac.com | What to Plant in a Raised Garden Bed: The Best Vegetables, Fruits & Herbs to Grow University of Minnesota Extension | Container gardening for small spaces: big beauty in tiny places University of Minnestoa Extension | Raised bed gardens Bonnieplants.com | 4 x 4-foot Homemade Salsa Garden
Page 12 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Manage pests without pesticides with Integrated Pest Management Pests tend to come with the territory when cultivating any garden, but some gardeners may not know that there are many effective options for managing pests before reaching for a bottle of poison. The strategy is called Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and is a comprehensive approach to controlling pests with environmentally and economically sound practices. According to the University of Illinois Extension Good Growing blog, “IPM is an approach to reducing insect pest, weed, and disease populations to an acceptable level (we don’t typically ‘wipe out’ the pest) using a variety of different techniques. There are four techniques used with IPM: cultural, physical/ mechanical, biological, and chemical.” Ken Johnson, horticulture educator with the U of I Extension, presented an introduction to IPM at the 2026 Russel Allen Garden Day hosted by the Logan County Master Gardeners. Johnson first asked, what is a pest? He defined a pest as any organism that is seen as harmful or annoying and may affect humans, animals, property, or the environment. It can include bugs, infectious and non-infectious diseases, and wildlife. Johnson explained that IPM is a structure. The foundation is to understand what a plant should be and what it needs, what the life cycle is, as well as common pests and diseases. It is also important to understand the basic life cycles of pests and diseases. IPM starts with knowledge of biology, ecology, and timing. With this knowledge base, the next step in IPM is scouting. Scouting is basically observing your garden and can be as simple as a daily wander among the plants while enjoying your morning tea or coffee. While wandering, note any changes to leaves, stems, or growing culture. Scouting includes pest monitoring and identification with visual inspection and then efforts to determine the cause of the problem. For example, frost damage can resemble downy mildew on squash leaves, so determining the source of the problem is important. When an issue is observed, take these steps to diagnose the problem. 1. Identify the plant. 2. Identify the problem. 3. Inspect the whole plant. 4. Inspect the site. 5. Look for patterns. 6. Check the environment. If a gardener is still stumped after close inspection and research,
Page 13 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 the Illinois Master Gardeners host a free help desk to answer a variety of garden questions. IPM uses four management strategies: cultural, physical/mechanical, biological, and chemical. It is possible to effectively use the first three strategies, so that no chemicals are necessary. Cultural Management. With cultural management the goal is optimal plant health so that it can withstand pressure from pests or diseases. The Master Gardener mantra is ‘the right plant in the right place at the right time.’ This means that we want healthy, fertile soil, disease-resistant plant cultivars, and to plant according to the best timing for that cultivar. Plants should have proper spacing and be pruned appropriately. Plants need ventilation and consistent moisture. Mulching can help maintain moisture and reduce weed pressure. Gardeners should also practice crop rotation as far as is possible to help prevent soil diseases from establishing. Crops should be rotated among plant families, not just individual species, at least every three years. The Solanaceous family of peppers, tomatoes, eggplant, and potatoes are similar enough– with similar pests– that these should not be rotated with one another. The same applies to the Brassica family of broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, etc., which are all variations of the same species, and therefore, attract the same pests and draw the same nutrients from the soil. Gardeners can easily find information about which vegetables are part of which family. Another form of cultural management includes trap cropping. Trap cropping is basically planting a “sacrificial plant” to attract insects away from the desired plants. This means the pests must be managed or destroyed on the trap crop. For example, squash bugs love Blue Hubbard squash, so planting Blue Hubbard as a decoy and managing bugs there may relieve squash bug pressure on your zucchini and other squash plants. Physical/Mechanical Management. The goal of physical/mechanical management is to physically eliminate plants and pests. This can include cultivating around established plants to remove weeds. It can mean hand-picking insects and destroying or drowning them in soapy water. Pruning for good air circulation can promote plant health. Pulling weeds and removing diseased plants also relieve pressure on desired plants. Physical barriers, such as grow tunnels, screens, and garden cloth can prevent insects from damaging vegetables.
Page 14 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Biological Management. The goal of biological management is to manage pests with natural enemies. There are several predatory species, parasites, and pathogens that can keep pest species in check. For example, parasitoid wasps lay eggs on the horn worms that damage tomatoes, so these are helpful wasps to have in the garden. Some of the best pest control comes from spiders. There are over 630 spider species in Illinois who catch prey with webs, ambush, jumping, and chasing. Native praying mantis, both adult and nymph, are predators who feed on virtually anything. Praying mantis are sometimes sold as biological control, but these are usually not native and not worth the money. Wasps provide regulating services as pest control and as pollinators. Solitary wasps are specialist predators and social wasps are generalists. Other predatory insect species, both generalists and specialists, include stink bugs (pentatommidae), assassin bugs (reduviidae), minute pirate bugs, damsel bugs, green lacewings, lady beetles, ground beetles, and syrphid flies (sweat bees). Gardeners can take steps toward biological management by creating a hospitable environment and healthy ecosystem that encourages predatory species to take up residence in the garden. Choose heavy pollen and nectar producing plants with a variety of flowers and shapes planted in clumps and with blooms all season. Choose flowers with small, open flowers with exposed nectaries. Try for two to three species blooming throughout the growing season, especially in the shoulder months. Both native and specifically introduced plant species can be good pollinators. Annuals such as zinnias, sunflowers, cosmos, as well as sedum attract pollinators. When allowed to grow to flower stage, herbs have smaller flowers good for pollinators. Flowers that Americans consider “weeds” like dandelion, clover, purslane, and violets are important pollen and nectar plants, particularly in early spring. Trees can also be important pollinators early in the year. To encourage an environment where predatory species can thrive, provide habitat for nesting and egg laying with layers, patches of bare ground, dead tree trunks, brush piles, and access to mud. Provide protection from wind and weather. Grasses and sedges can provide habitat. Be willing to accept some plant damage in exchange for the work the predatory species will do. Some gardeners build or purchase nesting boxes for insects but note that nesting boxes may harbor parasites or diseases and should be cleaned periodically. As an additional note, research indicates that butterflies do not use the "butterfly houses” available for purchase at some garden centers. Chemical Management. The goal of chemical management is to manage with poisons in the form of insecticides and herbicides. Most pest problems can be effectively managed with cultural, physical, and biological control. Use chemicals only when absolutely necessary. Use selective products, know exactly what you are dealing with, and use only as much as the label allows. More is not better. Follow all usage directions on the label because the label is the law. If possible, rotate chemicals. Most importantly, pay attention to pre-harvest intervals. Do not apply poisons to produce meant for consumption later than advised on the label. There are both synthetic and biorational pesticides. Keep in mind that “natural” does not mean safe. Contact pesticides are used as coverage and residual poisons; Systemic
Page 15 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 pesticides are taken up by the plant and anything that feeds on the plant also feeds on the poison. There are non-selective pesticides, like glyphosate, that kill everything, including things that may not be pests, and there are selective pesticides like 2,4-D and Bt that are targeted. Integrated pest management is an effective pest management strategy that can eliminate (or at least greatly reduce) the need for chemical pesticides. Using cultural, physical, and biological techniques to maintain maximum garden health can prevent insect and disease damage, promote the health of pollinators and natural predatory species, and protect ecosystems and families from unnecessary exposure to chemicals while growing a flourishing garden space. [Stephanie Hall] Sources: University of Illinois Extension | Starting a Garden: Pest Management
Page 16 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Selecting and caring for trees There’s an old proverb that says “the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The secondbest time is now.” If you are planning to plant a tree soon, it is important to do your research on what trees do well in this area. A University of Illinois Extension article on tree selection says, “many tree species do well throughout Illinois’ hardiness zones. Base selections on existing site conditions and tree characteristics suitable for the planting location. Pay attention to soil conditions and wind and sun exposure.” Hardiness zones, also known as planting zones, are classified by what the average temperatures are annually. Central Illinois is in Zone 6, where minimum temperatures drop as low as -10 degrees, so it is important to choose trees that can survive low temperatures. Trees that do well in this zone include maples, weeping willows, poplars, elms, white oaks and magnolias. If you want to plant fruit trees, consider peach, apple, apricot, nectarine, plum and cherry trees. Guy Sternberg, a certified arborist who operates Starhill Forest Arboretum in nearby Petersburg, Illinois, says that of all these fruits, the most reliable and long lived in our region are apples and pears.
Page 17 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Once you have selected a tree, there are a few things to consider. For example, before purchasing a tree, you need to inspect it carefully to ensure there are no exposed roots, and the trunk is not damaged. In addition, U of I Extension says, “Be sure the container or root ball is the appropriate size compared to the size of the tree canopy.” Sternberg says if the tree was grown in a container that was not designed as root training, you probably will need to spread or trim any circling roots before you plant the tree. If these roots are allowed to circle, the circling root probably will kill the tree within a few years. Next, make sure the tree has had regular watering. Sternberg says this is done by watering deeply enough to soak the entire depth of the root system as well as out beyond the initial edge of the root system to encourage root growth. Allow the top inch or so of topsoil to feel dry as you insert your finger before watering it again to allow for air infiltration, because roots need both water and air as they would during natural rains. Continue the watering method for at least a full year, or longer, until the tree is well established and there are no droughts in your area in the future. More about watering will be mentioned later as we reach the establishment period. As the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) page on tree planting resources says, “some trees require more maintenance than others. Consider if you have time to water a newly planted tree and inspect it periodically for insect and disease issues.”
Page 18 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Before you plant the tree, make sure it has enough space to grow. For instance, you would not want a large tree near a power line. Illinois Department of Natural Resources says, “the most common mistake made is to not allow adequate space and the tree then grows into the house, buildings, utility lines, or obstructs the view of oncoming traffic.” Planting a tree Once you have chosen a good location to plant a tree, dig a hole that is wide but shallow. The hole should be two or three times the size of the root ball, but no deeper than the root ball. The root flare, which is where the base of the trunk gets wider, should be at the same level or just slightly above the surrounding soil. Sternberg says, “Be sure it is placed in the ground no deeper than it grew, or even slightly shallower to allow for settling. The roots can suffocate if planted too deeply, or the deep planting can redirect the new roots in the wrong direction upward to try to survive.” The tree should then be removed from any packing materials like burlap, plastic containers or baskets. The roots should also be loosened, and any circling roots should be straightened or trimmed. After the tree is in place, the hole should be filled with the original soil. Sternberg says this is the soil that was pulverized as it was dug from the planting hole and packed just tightly enough to avoid air pockets, but not so tight as to compress it beyond the ability of the new roots to grow into it. The soil then needs to be immediately watered. Around the tree’s base, you should put two or three inches of mulch in a circular shape but make sure it is a couple of inches from the trunk. Sternberg says the mulch should be a natural, not poison-sprayed, granular organic substance such as small wood chips or small bark chips, not grass clippings or pulverized material that might not allow aeriation or rain penetration. As you put the mulch in, Sternberg says, “Do not use gravel or rubber or plastic matting, or anything that has been treated with herbicide. It should have cured long enough for it to have aged and cooled (perhaps one season of aging). Stir the aging pile occasionally to mix the particles for aeration and disrupt or pull any young weeds. You might find it easier to buy bagged mulch as long as it fits these requirements.” Caring for your tree as it grows When the tree has been planted, the DNR says you should “inspect your newly planted tree frequently for the first two years. Water your tree every 7-10 days depending on the current rainfall. Make sure to saturate the ground when watering the trees and then let it dry out.” It is important to give the tree just the right amount of water. The Arbor Foundation says, “Not enough water is harmful for the tree, but
Page 19 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 too much water is bad as well. Over-watering is a common tree care mistake. Please note that moist is different than soggy, and you can judge this by feel. A damp soil that dries for a short period will allow adequate oxygen to permeate the soil.” To check the moisture of the soil, a garden trowel can be used. It should be inserted two inches into the ground. Next, move the blade of the trowel back and forth to create a small narrow trench. Then use your finger to touch the soil. If it is moist to the touch, then they do not need water. Your tree will also need occasional pruning to reduce the size of the canopy and remove dead or damaged branches. Before pruning, you need to identify the trunk and skeleton, which are the thicker branches of the tree. As you prune the tree, do it from the ground up cutting any branches that are diseased, broken or dead. The canopy, which is the top layer of the tree, should also be thinned out. The Family Handyman says, “Thin out the canopy by cutting branches that cross over each other and block light. These branches smother other branches, preventing light from filtering through to the rest of the tree.” As you cut these branches make sure you do not cut more than 25 percent of the tree’s total height. The Family Handyman suggests cutting “one out of every four to five branches” in order “to create room for growth, which happens through light exposure.” Finally, Sternberg says you need to remember that trees grow in different ways. Some types, especially small ornamental trees and fruit trees, tend to be deliquescent, which means they have naturally forming spreading limbs with no extending central leader. This is common with many fruit trees, and their natural form gives you a head start on pruning. Sternberg says some others, including many nut trees and most forest trees, tend to be excurrent, which means they try to develop vertical central trunks reaching for the sky. Converting them into deliquescent food trees requires a lot more constant work and it is not the best way to cultivate such trees without constant attention. On the plus side, Sternberg says most nut trees can grow normally and drop their crops safely from far above reach. Simply rake the nuts up from the ground in perfect condition because they are strong and not damaged by falling.
Page 20 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Or leave them for your wildlife friends. Like animals, trees are not all the same and each needs the right attention. Whatever you decide to grow, pick the tree that’s right for you and your yard and then give it the individual attention it needs. [Angela Reiners] Sources: Guy Sternberg, certified arborist, Starhill Forest Arboretum. University of Illinois Extension | Tree Selector University of Illinois Extension | Spring tree planting considerations IDNR | Tree planting resources Arbor Day Foundation | Tree watering Family Handyman | How to prune a tree for maximum health and growth
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Page 22 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Proper care for fine wood furniture Whether maintaining your newly purchased wooden desk or refreshing your greatgrandmother’s wooden rocking chair, spring cleaning reminds us of the need to care for our fine wood furniture. Cleaning and caring for your fine wood furniture can protect your investment and help ensure that your family can treasure the piece for generations to come. Taking a few simple steps during this spring’s cleaning can give your home a polished look. Jason Hoffman of Jason Hoffman Studios and the Lincoln Arts Institute stresses the importance of testing a small, inconspicuous area before using cleaning products on the entire surface of the wooden piece. Another local furniture expert, Jake from Jake’s Furniture in Lincoln, suggests cleaning with a soft, damp cloth, followed by a dry cloth, wiping with the wood grain. Jake warns that using products like Pledge requires consistent application, or the wood will dry out. For routine care, World Interiors also suggests dusting with a soft, dry cloth or feather duster. They recommend immediately wiping up spills with a soft, dry cloth to prevent watermarks, warping, or other stains. Fast action will prevent the wood from absorbing the moisture. World Interiors also notes that while routine cleaning is important, preventing damage is equally vital. To preserve your wooden surfaces, protect them from heat and moisture. While sipping a hot cup of coffee at your desk or serving a cool glass of lemonade on a hot, humid day, remember to use a coaster to protect your wood furniture from heat marks or water rings. Tablecloths or placemats are also important when serving a hot dinner on a wooden surface. They also stress the importance of using protective pads under items like lamps or decorative items to prevent scratches and finish damage. When planning wood furniture for your home, consider its placement, as direct sunlight can fade or discolor the wood. Fireplaces, humidifiers, heating, and cooling vents can also cause damage such as drying and cracking wood furniture, depending on the environment. It is important to monitor the environment, as air moisture fluctuations can cause the wood to swell or contract. In dryer environments, a humidifier might be necessary. You should also consider the furniture's use. If you have a wooden desk, consider a pad underneath your electronics, as the materials
Page 23 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 they are made of or the heat that they produce can damage the wood surface. For writing with pens use a pad to avoid scratching surfaces. If you have pets, try to keep them off the furniture as their nails can also cause inadvertent scratches (Bassett). Bassett Furniture offers tips for removing unwanted odors from wood furniture. The first line of defense is to try a vinegar-and-water solution. Soak a clean rag in the solution made of equal parts water and white vinegar. For different types of smells of smoke, lemon oil is the best option. Bassett recommends Murphy’s cleaner if the vinegar-and-water solution does not work (Bassett). If the previously mentioned preventative measures failed and you have a minor scratch, missed a spill, or left a watermark, Bassett Furniture has recommendations to remedy these mishaps. For minor blemishes, such as scratches or dents, they recommend a marker, shoe polish, or furniture pen to match your furniture's color. For rings left by condensation or heat, they recommend wiping the ring with rubbing alcohol, which draws moisture from the area. You can also try using a blow dryer on a low setting, as the warmth can remove moisture from the wood. Additional products are available online to assist in water ring removal (Bassett). Hickory Furniture Mart advises, “Different wood finishes require different care techniques.” They describe the most common finishes, including lacquer and varnish, shellac, and oil. To maintain lacquer and varnish, avoid wax-based products, as they can cause a buildup on these finishes. Instead, dust regularly with a soft cloth and wipe occasionally with a damp cloth. Shellac requires cleaning with a soft, damp cloth. Hickory Furniture also recommends a highquality paste wax to protect the shellac. An oil finish requires a thin coat of furniture oil once or twice a year. Hickory Furniture advises that, regardless of finish, it is important to consult the furniture manufacturer’s instructions for the most specific care instructions. Arlington Woodworks provides a list of chemicals and cleaners to avoid when working with wood furniture. Those include ammonia, bleach, acetone, and abrasive cleaners. The harsh chemicals can strip the wood of its finish and cause damage such as discoloration and corrosion. They stress the importance of the above-mentioned dusting ritual because accumulated dust can act like sandpaper, scratching the wood over time. Arlington goes beyond surface-level damage and warns that exposing wood furniture to excess moisture can cause structural damage: moisture swells
Page 24 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 the wood, puts pressure on the joints, and can cause gaps or breaks. If the moisture exposure is ongoing, it can cause the wood to rot (Arlington Woodworks). As Benjamin Franklin said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Protecting your wood furniture from scratches, marks, and major damage can help you preserve your investment. Experts have provided easy steps for maintaining and cleaning your wood pieces, so this spring is a good time to start a cleaning routine. Maybe these tips have also inspired you to rearrange your furniture to give your room a fresh look while protecting your most cherished pieces. [Joli Boerma] Sources: World Interiors | How to care for your wood furniture Hickory Furniture Mart | How to care for and maintain your fine furniture collection series: wood furniture Bassett Furniture | How to care for wood furniture Arlington Woodwooks | 5 Common mistakes people make when caring for wood furniture (and how to avoid them)
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Page 26 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Humane ways to be rid of PESTY VERMIN Taking care of your home and yard often means dealing with plenty of unwanted pests. From ants in the kitchen to raccoons in the attic, you may run into all of them during the lifetime of your home. While it's important to protect your space from damage, and your health from any animal-borne diseases, it doesn't mean the solution has to be harmful to people, kids, pets, the pesty animals or the environment. That's where using a humane approach to pest control comes in. This means that you are doing your best to resolve any pest problems in a way that will minimize suffering and avoid unnecessary harm. Getting rid of insects like roaches, ants and wasps, or mice scurrying across the floor is a necessity. However, you can still use a targeted and environmentally-responsible method instead of reaching for the spray can, a shoe or jumping on a chair and screaming for your husband! Broad-spectrum pesticides, for example, can also kill beneficial insects like bees and butterflies, contaminate soil and water, and disrupt the larger ecosystem. Instead, you can naturally repel these bugs and reduce the impact on the surrounding environment. Even though there are so many types of lethal sprays, traps, pellets, liquid, and concoctions in killing pesty critters, is it really the best and safest for kids, pets, and the environment? If you are interested in controlling those unwanted pests in the most humane way, here are some ways to do that. The key to successful humane pest control is to identify the root cause of the infestation and address it using methods that do not harm the animals. Humane rodent control works best when it blends prevention, gentle deterrence, and when necessary careful implementing a catch and release scenario, which may require consulting a professional. The goal is to stop the problem without harming the animals or creating new ones. It is best to use humane pest control methods, as they not only reduce the suffering of animals but also protect the environment and human health. My house is clean and I do not have junk lying all around, why do I have this problem?? Rodents enter homes mainly for three reasons: food, warmth, and shelter. Removing these incentives is the foundation of humane control. Your house can be clean and pristine, but if you do not do a routine inspection of your foundation, windows, attic, and all points of entry, you could still get pests of all kinds invading your home. Sealing gaps, storing
Page 27 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 food securely, and eliminating clutter will help dramatically reduce rodent traffic. Below are a few tips and tricks for buttoning up your home in a humane way. Rodents • Can squeeze through openings as small as a dime • Blocking these routes forces them to move on naturally • Seal cracks and holes with caulk or steel wool. • Install door sweeps and cover vents or chimneys with metal mesh. • Block nest entrances if you’ve identified them • This approach alone can resolve many infestations Start outside first • Encourage predators to stay away first by scaring them away before penetration into the home occurs • Use eco friendly approaches such as installing barn owl nesting boxes to reduce outdoor rodent populations naturally • This approach avoids the use of chemicals and supports local ecosystems Non toxic deterrents • Can make your home less appealing. • Peppermint oil on cotton balls • Garlic or cayenne pepper • Ammonia (used cautiously and never near pets or kids) • These scents disrupt rodent behavior and encourage them to leave voluntarily Use Live, No Kill Traps • Live traps are the most widely recommended humane method • Place traps along walls and near entry points—rodents rarely cross open spaces • Bait with peanut butter, seeds, or oats
Page 28 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 • Check traps frequently to avoid stress or dehydration • Wear gloves to reduce scent and protect yourself • Release rodents 1–2 miles away in a wooded or natural area • These traps are designed to capture without injury and are considered the core of humane rodent control Natural repellents • Can be more expensive • Could be harder to find • May take some additional research to find fully natural ingredients Other less humane methods • Using snap or electronic traps could be used as an alternative to poison. This method is not fully humane but is considered less harmful than toxins and may be used when safety or health risks escalate. Getting rid of pests in a humane manner has other benefits as well. Humane pest control prioritizes non-lethal, environmentally friendly methods to manage pests while minimizing harm to animals, humans, and ecosystems. • Core Techniques: Humane pest control relies on exclusion (sealing entry points), habitat modification (removing attractants), live traps (catch-and-release), and natural repellents that can prevent and control infestations without lethal chemicals. • Environmental & Cost Benefits: By reducing toxic pesticide use, humane methods protect local ecosystems and wildlife while potentially lowering long-term costs through preventionfocused strategies and by reducing the need for repeated treatments • Business Differentiation: If you are a business owner, adopting humane pest control methods can enhance your reputation among environmentally-conscious customers, building loyalty and setting your business apart in a competitive market. • Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Successful humane pest control combines multiple strategies—sanitation, monitoring, exclusion, and natural deterrents—to maintain pest-free environments through ongoing prevention rather than reactive treatments. When to call in the professionals Professionals are trained in using humane methods while prioritizing exclusion, safe relocation, and minimal stress for the animal. The most humane strategy is always the one that prevents rodents from entering in the first place. Live traps and natural deterrents work best when combined with sealing entry points and removing attractants. If you’re dealing with a larger infestation, a wildlife friendly professional can help implement these methods safely. Don’t fret……whether Illinois is home, or another state or country, there will always be some kind of critter wanting to invade your living space. There is no way around it. However, how well the general maintenance is performed and maintained on the homestead
Page 29 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 and surrounding structures both in the spring and fall, will determine how well pests stay away. [JA Hodgdon-Ruppel] Sources: PestPac | Humane pest control explained: methods and how it works Rodent Guide: How to get rid of rats without killing them: Humane rat removal tips Consumer Reports | How to get rid of any pest in your home or yard - for good Pesteze | Humane rodent control: catch and release methods House Digest | The dos and don’ts of humane pest removal (& when to hire a pro)
Page 30 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 Ways to increase curb appeal When you are trying to sell your house, first impressions are everything. Before a potential buyer comes through the front door, they have already formed an opinion based on what can be seen from the street. This is why curb appeal is so important. Budget conscious improvements like window boxes, hanging plants, flower beds, landscaping, new walkways, stone paths and painting can all make a difference in your home’s value. Seth and Gaynor Goodman of ME Realty say curb appeal is essential for best presentation because it is the first impression people have. Something Becky Werth of Werth Realty recommends is standing in front your house and closing your eyes, then opening them and looking at the house from a buyer’s perspective to help determine what needs to be improved. Plants are one good way to increase curb appeal. If you do not have enough space for a full garden, consider adding a window box to your home. In the article “Boost Curb Appeal with These Brilliant Window Box Ideas,” Cole Ramsey says, “When choosing materials for your window boxes, consider factors such as durability, maintenance, and style to ensure they complement your home’s aesthetic.” Plastic, metal and wood are all good options, but whatever material you use, choose one to fit the style of the home. Throughout the year, you can incorporate seasonal flower arrangements. For example, in the spring, brightly colored tulips and daffodils are good choices. In the summer, try using marigolds and sunflowers. During the fall, dahlias and chrysanthemums work well. Ramsey says, “to make the most of seasonal flower arrangements in your window boxes, choose varieties that thrive in your local climate and are well-suited to containers. Consider using a mix of annuals and perennials for added interest and texture. Don’t forget to include some greenery like ferns or succulents to add depth and visual interest to your arrangements.” For hanging plants, consider brightly colored flowers like petunias, begonias and geraniums. If you want something for all seasons, Suite 101 says, “English ivy is a timeless choice for a
Page 31 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 green, foliage-focused hanging basket that looks beautiful year-round.” The leaves “provide a sense of structure and elegance, particularly when allowed to trail several feet down from a high hook.” In addition, the hardy plant “is perfect for shaded entryways where most flowering plants might struggle to survive.” With flower beds, you can create many different designs based on whether you want something simple or elaborate. Petunia, hydrangeas and daisies provide lots of color, while shrubs are easy to care for and can provide symmetry. If you have the budget to do full blown landscaping in your front yard, consider using a ground cover, which can be used among traditional grass. In the article, “Front Yard Landscaping Ideas To Boost Your Curb Appeal,” Alexis Carthan says, “Many ground covers provide food and habitats for pollinators such as butterflies and bees. Consider native wildflowers or lowgrowing catmint to create a thriving ecosystem for pollinators in your front yard.” Other landscaping elements include perennials, annuals, trees, shrubs, fences, gates, retaining walls, terraces and walkways. Along with landscaping, a paved garden path can add appeal. In “15 Garden Path and Walkway Ideas that Last for Timeless Appeal,” Paul Simpson says, “A garden path can transform outdoor space into a welcoming retreat while serving as a steady guide through your yard. Simpson suggests using decking material, classic pavers, gravel, stepping-stones, flagstones, brick with creeping thyme or mosaic tiles to create designs that blend in with the garden. Whatever material you choose, you will need to prepare the soil, so the path has a sturdy base. Because the walkway is what people first see when they get to a house, it is important to make sure your walkway makes a good impression. In an article on walkway ideas that transform curb appeal, Jennifer Wilks says, “A wellplanned front walkway doesn’t just guide guests to your door – it transforms your entire property’s curb appeal and can significantly boost your home’s value. Whether you’re working with a straight shot from the street or handling around existing industry features, the right walkway design becomes a stunning focal point that reflects your personal style.” There are a variety of materials you can use for walkways including stone, concrete, brick, gravel, pavers, wood and even mulch and wood chips. The costs of the walkway will depend on the material. Some walkways provide an elegant look while others provide a more earthy look that blends with the landscape. For example, cobblestone walkways look stylish and classy, while a walkway created from mulch blends with a garden area. Once the walkway is completed, make sure you inspect and maintain it. Wilk says, “regular inspection schedules help you catch problems before they become expensive repairs. Walk your entire pathway monthly, looking for cracks, settling, or loose materials that need attention. Document any changes
Page 32 2026 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2026 with photos to track progression over time.” Sometimes, the house itself may need work to increase curb appeal. Andrea Dykman, who is a local realtor and flips houses, said on her last flip property she and her husband took an old porch and basically made it brand new. They also painted it and removed old windows and wood to make the home entrance more inviting. If your house needs even more of a makeover, painting can really help with curb appeal. It doesn’t necessarily mean you need to paint the whole house. There are other areas of the house that can be painted to make the exterior look better. For example, since windows are an important part of a home, painting windows and shutters can provide a boost. Other areas you might consider painting are steps, patios, brickwork, porches, pillars and fences. One of the easiest ways to boost curb appeal is by painting your front door. In the article “6 unexpected places you can paint to increase your house’s curb appeal, according to experts,” Helen Shaw says, “There are a host of simple and effective ways to spruce it up, the most effective is to freshen up your front door. It will add instant impact as you walk into the home and offers an opportunity to add color and create character.” These are just some ways you can increase your home’s curb appeal. Whether you plan to stay in your home for a long time or sell your home, making these enhancements can help you create a more inviting space. [Angela Reiners] Sources: This Old House | Front yard landscaping ideas to boost your curb appeal Artevo Home | 25 Stunning front walkway ideas to transform you home’s curb appeal in 2025 Gardening Latest | 15 Garden path and walkway ideas that last for timeless appeal Livingetc | 6 Unexpected places you can paint to increase your house’s curb appeal, according to experts
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