Complimentary August 2021
Add A Fresh Face to Your Home Showcase Your Space Much Ado About Mulching
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PO Box 188 • 206 South Main St. Milford, IN 46542 800.733.4111/Fax 800.886.3796 Editorial ext. 2506 & Advertising ext. 2362
www.michianahouseandhome.com PUBLISHER Ron Baumgartner rbaumgartner@the-papers.com PUBLICATION MANAGER Bill Hays bhays@the-papers.com EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Deb Patterson dpatterson@the-papers.com EDITOR Nicholette Carlson ncarlson@the-papers.com ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Karen Johnson kjohnson@the-papers.com BUSINESS MANAGER Carrie Goralczyk cgoralczyk@the-papers.com DIRECTOR OF MARKETING Steve Meadows smeadows@the-papers.com
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contents
FEATURE WRITERS Julie Young, Beth Anne Brink-Cox GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Maymie Ankrom, Mary Lester MARKETING ASSISTANTS Darlene Eichelberger darlene@the-papers.com Trina Hoy thoy@the-papers.com DIRECTOR OF CIRCULATION Jerry Long jlong@the-papers.com
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Michiana House and Home (MHH) is a newsmagazine with emphasis on home decor, design and remodeling. MHH does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial content, nor does MHH or its staff assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial content appear in any publication. MHH reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. Michiana House and Home has not independently tested any services or products advertised herein and has verified no claims made by its advertisers regarding those services or products. MHH makes no warranties or representations and assumes no liability for any claims regarding those services or products or claims made by advertisers regarding such products or services. Readers are advised to consult with the advertiser and/or other home repair and renovation professionals regarding any such claims and regarding the suitability of an advertiser’s products.
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No reproduction of Michiana House and Home is allowed without express written permission. Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $44.00 for one year; and $75.00 for two years. Mail the order form, along with your check to Michiana House and Home, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542. Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt. Copyright © Michiana House and Home All rights reserved, 2021 Member of:
August 2021 VOLUME 18
NO. 4
Front Yard Essentials
5
Remodeling Helps Bring Out The Best In Your Home
8
New Hardware Adds A Fresh Face To Your Home
10
The Ultimate — Book Nooks
12
Much Ado About Mulch
14
Around Michiana
15
Servin’ Up Good Eats
16
Year-Round Gardening
17
Business Gallery
17
Did You Know?
18
12 cover photo: Unsplash.com
| Michiana House and Home | August 2021 | 3
editor’s note...
As one of the hotter months of the year, August is typically spent enjoying the last full summer-feeling month before school starts up again and the temperature inevitably begins to cool, though we have been known to have some hot September days. Personally I’m hoping all the July rain will turn into warm, clear days. Living surrounds for me is bugs. mean ed by woods on all sides, all the rain the outdoors and ing Mosquitoes galore. And that makes enjoy unpleasant. It getting outdoor projects done both difficult and . I’d rather has been suggested I should invest in a bat house have more chickens. or tasks, Now that I am, dare I say it, caught up on my outdo make and g capin lands little a I hope to be able to perhaps do s. tation expec tic Realis t. everything look pretty, or at least decen those keep to door Mulch the areas around my porch and back wash windows weeds from sprouting back up. Clean gutters, and power wash the siding and porch. my back I could really use a new, sturdier set of steps for
, but that will likely door. I would love to install a couple new doors a schedule and into be a project for next year. But, as we get back nicer overall. and routine, I would like to get everything looking tidier tenance. main routine Get everything set so all that has to be done is outdoor parties However, don’t skip the fun. Throw a few more yard. I have two girls and get togethers. Put some cute decor in your small parties and two ing plann with birthdays in August, so I’ll be we get back into e befor ed we have a big birthday vacation plann and enjoy all the out get school mode. Enjoy the last official month to local lakes and beaches before Labor Day. and tips for outThis issue will provide you with plenty of ideas how to spruce door and yard renovation. Learn everything from as door knobs and your home up with a few simple switches, such siding or windows. new all like other hardware, to huge renovations kids to do for or while Create a nook to escape the world for a homework. er and the Let August bring you both the endless joys of summ comfort of routine. n
Nikki
Nicholette Carlson, Editor Email: ncarlson@the-papers.com
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Front Yard Essentials by Julie Young, House and Home Writer
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Showcase Your Space Without Going Overboard
Your front yard sets the stage for a property’s overall curb appeal and it should showcase the space without stealing the spotlight from the headlining structure itself. A well-landscaped lawn not only welcomes guests to your abode, but it also complements its size and style. It should include elements such as live material, hardscape, mulch, lighting and more. The result should be a balanced presentation that looks great and is easy to maintain.
| Michiana House and Home | August 2021 | 5
FIND YOUR FOCUS Every space has a focal point and, when it comes to the front yard, that is traditionally the front door. Although you will want your walkway to offer guests a touch of the red carpet, you can add additional hardscape materials throughout the yard to complement your home’s style. Jason Bontrager with Superior Hardscapes in Middlebury, says he likes to incorporate a mix of materials to add texture and depth to a space while differentiating from other areas of the yard. If your home has a lot of natural stone, then a rustic paver may be appropriate while a more contemporary look may require something more linear and streamlined. “It really depends on what you like and what will look best with your home,” he said. “Having a 3-D rendering drawn up will help you step back and see what the finished project is going to look like before you ever get started and allows you to make any changes you need to before items are purchased and installed.” Shutterstock.com
6 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 |
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PLAN FOR THE FUTURE When it comes to live material, it is important for homeowners to think about the plants they need to give their home depth and personality. Although you don’t have to overcrowd your yard with lots of ornamentals, it is important to include ground covers, foundation plants and a few pops of color that will make people look twice. Andrew Moser, store manager at Kuert Outdoor Living in Goshen, says one of the biggest landscaping mistakes homeowners make is in not planning for the future of their live material. Often, they don’t consider how large a plant will grow over the years and they tend to place their plants based on the size they are when they are purchased. A few years later, they realize their landscape is overgrown and out of control. “The key to staying balanced is in knowing which plants to put where,” he said. “I think it looks nice when landscaping has a good variety of materials mixed throughout, (but) on the other hand, you want to avoid just having a bunch of random items/plants/ materials in the landscape. A professional landscaper can help identify the right plants while keeping a common theme going throughout.”
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LIGHT IT UP Homeowners have an array of choices when it comes to lighting their landscape as well. While you don’t want to add too much light pollution to your neighborhood, you can get creative so that your yard looks as welcoming in the evening as it does during the day. “No matter whether your style is minimalist, traditional, contemporary or abstract, there is a landscaping solution to meet your front yard’s needs,” Bontrager said. “Contact a professional that can help you create a vision for your front yard that will welcome you home for years to come!” n
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RESOURCES: Superior Hardscapes, Middlebury, 574-370-4002, www.superiorhardscapes.com Kuert Outdoor Living, Goshen, 574-312-7557, www.kuert.com
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598 Shawnee Drive, Nappanee, IN 46550 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 | 7
Remodeling
helps bring out the best in your home
By Beth Anne Brink-Cox, House and Home Writer
Do you fix up your house from the inside out or the outside in? That’s a matter of personal taste, time, budget, any number of things, and there’s no right or wrong answer. However, it’s to be considered that the exterior of your home is fully visible to many who will never see the inside and makes a statement all its own, especially if you live in a well-populated area. You might look around at your neighborhood and observe a pattern, such as a lot of older brick homes or some soaring new construction wherever you look. So if you’re going to remodel or upgrade your home exteriors, what will you do? You have so many choices! What about new siding or paint, changing color as well as overall look? New windows or doors? Maybe you always wanted a bay window or a greenhouse window or a really stunning front door. You can add architectural details such as new columns at your entry area or add windows into attic space, which lends itself to possibilities of additional living space, if you choose. Maybe you’d like shutters or window boxes. There are beautiful things you can do with decorative stone or shingle details.
8 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 |
Photo courtesy of Quality Window and Door, Elkhart
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Photo courtesy of Quality Window and Door, Elkhart
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Daniel and Gloria King have been in business at Quality Window and Door since 1987, and they’ve seen many trends come and go. Carmen Snider at QWD said, “The most popular trends currently are vertical siding as opposed to horizontal.” What about a sunroom or other wall of glass? What about varying shapes of windows? Natural light is always such a great addition to your home. Snider said, “Currently that means black exteriors for windows, with modern and clean lines, big openings and lots of glass.” You might wonder if some houses are more difficult to renovate, such as stone or brick? Are old homes more difficult with the possibility of previous building materials now deemed unsafe and the type of removal that may require? How do you work around that? Snider said, “It doesn’t matter if the house is old or new, remodeling can present many challenges. Hiring a company that knows how to adapt and adjust to these changes is key. No two houses are exactly alike, so it cannot be a cookie cutter approach. Both customer and contractor need to be flexible and work together on these challenges, problem solving for a positive end result!” What if someone wants something that’s just not possible? Snider emphasized, “Present the next best option. There is always something that can be worked out, maybe even better than what was originally hoped for. And we can see potential issues that the customer might not, so we’ll work it out. We do about 60% remodeling and replacing projects and 40% new construction.” Are customers wanting to be more trendy these days or classic? Which is more easily achieved? Snider said, “It all depends. We serve a wide demographic of people. We are seeing that a lot of new construction homes have more of a modern feel.” Much depends on your intent. Do you plan to live in this house for many years or are you planning to flip it? A realtor might tell you, for example, that red shutters and trim won’t show as well as more neutral ones would. And don’t forget to consider the grounds around your house — existing trees, shrubbery and flowers or the lack thereof. Enjoy the journey and revel in the results. n
Join us for our 20th anniversary! Friday, September 17, 2021 7:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Allen County War Memorial Coliseum Register as an event sponsor or to host a booth at pfw.edu/tapestry/sponsorships/
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RESOURCE: Quality Window and Door, Elkhart, 574-674-1613, www.qwdbarn.com | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 | 9
ADDS A FRESH FACE TO YOUR HOME By Beth Anne Brink-Cox, House and Home Writer
When you think of home renovations, you might think of things such as new carpet, paint or wall coverings. What if that’s more than you want to tackle or maybe even more than you want to spend just now? But a fresh look is always uplifting, so what will you do? Hardware. New interior hardware can be one of the easiest face-lifts. What are the latest trends in interior hardware? Christine Doncaster of Doncaster Flooring and Design, Mishawaka, knows. “What I have seen is simple finishes of deep gold or black. Everyone, whether building or remodeling, should consider adding nice hardware for a decorative finishing touch. Like jewelry, so to speak,” she stated. What’s the biggest reason clients choose to install new hardware? Is it to update their home or, perhaps, restore it to an earlier time, in keeping with the period of the house? Doncaster said, “It’s really a personal taste. Is the home traditional, modern, farmhouse/ boho chic style? You want to complement the cabinets.” She went on to say, “People are keeping it simple by using the hardware as an accent piece.” You might think of hardware as mostly doorknobs, hinges and drawer pulls. But Doncaster said, you can freshen the kitchen by adding a backsplash or changing light fixtures to 10 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 |
match faucet finish. “Those are a few things to change it up, as well,” she said. But can you do this yourself? “As always, we say leave it to the experts. Sometimes, homeowners run into problems and then they end up spending more money. Using a professional means it will get done right and in less time. Keep in mind, though, if the installer is good, you need to check their schedule. They could be booked months in advance. And material has lead times, some of them longer, such as appliances, cabinets and flooring. Due to lead times or holidays, you need to plan ahead and be patient.” Doncaster added, “Buying cheap products doesn’t necessarily mean quality. Take the time to go to a showroom and talk to a professional. They can help and make sure you’re getting the right product for the right situation. You’ll be happier in the long run.” Debbie Carpenter, Sweet Water Interiors in Goshen, said, “The biggest trend I currently see is the use of different lengths of handles within the kitchen and bath settings. Many are
available in four, six, eight, 10, 18 and 22 inch, depending on the company. In the past we have been accustomed to a drawer having a 4-inch horizontal pull. Today I’ve worked with pulls on a drawer at 10 inches wide and, of course, the selection of the size used should be respective to the scale of the door or drawer.” Carpenter also said, “The black finish is becoming quite popular along with a newer golden champagne bronze. And most hardware can be installed by the owner. However, with the time involved, many hire it to be done. There is the spacing of existing holes to be considered when selecting new hardware. If they do not match up, they need to be filled and painted or stained. Painted is probably the easiest to cover up.” So take a little time and poke around with an eye to choosing something new for your home. The possibilities are endless, such as painted porcelain or glass knobs. Maybe a pot filler faucet. Don’t forget to consider light fixtures. The results will delight you every time you look at the changes you’ve made. n
RESOURCES: Doncaster Flooring and Design, Mishawaka,
574-318-4522, www.doncaster-flooring-design.business.site Sweet Water Interiors, Goshen, 574-534-3989,
www.sweetwaterinteriors.com
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The Ultimate —
Book Nooks PROVIDE PEACEFUL ESCAPE
By Beth Anne Brink-Cox, House and Home Writer
Chances are, if you’re a bookworm, you’ve been one from the first moments you learned to read. There’s a lovely thought about “books fall open and you fall in.” That was certainly true for me. The quarantining we’ve experienced has had a lot more people reading again or reading more than they once did. Being home so much meant you might have looked around and wondered just where you could create a cozy book nook, the kind of reading space that just invites you right in. Fortunately, that doesn’t mean you have to build an addition. Book nooks can be created anywhere there’s a little space, some of which you may never have considered, such as the
12 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 |
end of a large hallway or converting a closet. What kinds of furniture lend themselves well to a cozy corner for bookworms? Janine Blosser of Brandenberry Furniture in Shipshewana, said, “A chair with an ottoman is a great start. If you have room for two chairs with ottomans, it would be even better.” Blosser could be called a bookworm as well. “Customers usually know what they are looking for when they come in. Readers like myself usually want something they can cozy up in to
read, so an overstuffed chair is mostly used. If they have more space and want this to be a multipurpose room, then suggesting a love seat would be a good fit, too.” A book nook wouldn’t be likely to contain all your books, but you might want at least some storage space for your to-be-reads or your favorites that are read again and again. “Small
bookcases such as a ladder bookshelf, which is open in the back, could be used for smaller spaces,” said Blosser. You could also add some shelving if the space allows, such as under a window seat or framing a window. Blosser said, “Built-in pieces are great for larger rooms or freestanding for the smaller areas.” What are other creative uses of space to make such a place? Blosser knows her stuff. “An extra bedroom that is too small for a bed is a great use for a reading/meditating room. A small window seat also is a great area for reading, with sunshine giving you the natural lighting. If you have a fireplace, that makes for a very nice reading area. If not, you can improvise with a small revolving heater in that room to give you warmth while reading.” Don’t forget a couple of pillows and a nice throw.
She was asked, “Did you see an increase in such things during the quarantine or for homeschooling? Do you think people are reading more because of the restrictions?” Blosser’s answer was clear and thoughtful: “I do think people have come to the realization that home is a very good place to be since the quarantine. Yes, maybe they are reading more. Mostly I think people are placing more value on time spent with family, and realizing the importance of those relationships. Life is short and we must make the most of our time here.” n RESOURCE:
photos: Shutterstock.com
Brandenberry Furniture, Shipshewana, 260-768-3270, www.brandenberryfurniture.com
203 Wayne St., Middlebury, IN (574) 825-8824
| Michiana House and Home | August 2021 | 13
Much ado about Mulch mulch reaps rewards when it’s done right by Julie Young, House and Home Writer
When laid out properly, mulch is a gardener’s best friend. It is the ultimate time saver when it comes to weeding and watering, it helps fight pests, insulates plants and adds visual appeal to your overall landscape.
The term “mulch” includes a wide variety of organic materials including grass clippings, pine needles, wood chips, shredded bark and more, as well as inorganic compounds such as plastic sheeting, lava rocks and impact absorbing rubber components (which are often found on playgrounds). According to Melanie Krcilek, general manager with Small’s Garden Center in LaPorte, although a lot of people like the permanence of lava rock and other inorganic materials, it’s not as natural as the traditional cedar mulch, which can be purchased by the bag or load. Thanks to its availability, affordability, fragrance and color choices, it remains the most popular option among Michiana homeowners. “Cedar mulch comes in natural, chocolate, black, brown and red,” she said. “Most people stick with the natural tones, but it really depends on personal preference and what will look best in your yard.”
TIPS FOR YOUR TOPPER Andrew Moser, store manager at Kuert Outdoor Living in Goshen, says mulch can go a long way toward dressing up your landscaping and just putting down a fresh layer can give your yard an upgrade. It’s also great for your soil. “The whole point of mulch is to help retain moisture to the ground and plants,” he said. “As the wood mulch breaks down, it is adding nutrients to the soil – which your plants love.” Quality hardwood mulches help ensure that your material will last for a while and will not add toxins to your landscaping. Recycled wood mulch
should be avoided because it can sometimes have old flooring, pallets and other items mixed into it. Dyed mulches are typically environmentally safe and the colors are made from natural ingredients that will not hurt the surrounding plant material. Of course, mulch doesn’t last forever, so depending on the size, consistency and type of material used, it typically needs to be replenished once a year and in a three-inch layer directly on top of the soil. “A common mistake that people make is putting a weed barrier down under the mulch,” Moser said. “This keeps the mulch from adding nutrients to the soil. Eventually mulch must be taken up so that a new layer can be added, which means the removal of the weed fabric. Mulch itself will still help keep weeds down and a granular weed preventer can always be applied.” When it comes to mulching around trees, it is important to remove the grass before applying the mulch material. Spraying the grass around the tree with weed killer is not always a good idea because it could harm the tree as well. Moser advises to remove the sod with a shovel to create a natural edge and then apply the mulch around the tree. “If you don’t put it down too thick and take the time to fluff it up, mulch is a great addition to your yard,” Krcilek said. “Mulch offers homeowners a natural finish that can help the whole landscape design look its best.” n RESOURCES: Kuert Outdoor Living, Goshen, 574-312-7557, www.kuert.com Small’s Garden Center, LaPorte, 219-778-5840, www.smallsgardencenter.com
Photos:Shutterstock.com
14 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 |
Shutterstock.com
MULCH MASH-UP
michiana around
Editor’s Note: With ongoing concerns in regards to coronavirus, events may have been cancelled or postponed following Michiana House and Home’s press deadline. Verify events are still occurring before setting out to attend.
AUG. 7-14 | ELKHART COUNTY
AUG. 13 | BRISTOL
AUG. 24 | BRISTOL
Complete the 5K challenge in any Elkhart County Parks property the week of Aug. 7-14. Post a public photo or video of the experience using the hashtag #DeerflyDash2021 on Instagram or Facebook to receive a commemorative event glass. Registration fee — Register by Aug. 13 Elkhart County Parks
Bring the family, spread out a blanket and enjoy some space-themed snacks while watching the meteor shower. Information on how to use a telescope and spot constellations will be offered. 8:30 p.m. Briar Patch Shelter Bonneyville Mill CR 131
AUG. 11 | OSCEOLA
AUG. 21 | BRISTOL
Discover more about the life of Emma Molloy, the subject of Elkhart County’s newest state historic marker. The exhibit will chronicle her life as a trailblazer in newspaper editing during the 19th century to her rise as an advocate for temperance and women’s rights. The exhibit is available through October 2021. 9 a.m. Elkhart County Historical Museum 304 W. Vistula St.
Virtual Deerfly Dash
Perseids Party
Baugo Creek Kayak/Canoe Clean Up Those 14 years of age and older help remove small debris and trash from the creek while enjoying an afternoon paddle. Vessels and life jackets will be provided. Registration required 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ferrettie/Baugo Creek County Park 57057 Ash Road
AUG. 12 | NEW CARLISLE
Marshmallows and Meteors Bring a blanket and bug spray and watch the Perseid meteor shower on Carlisle Hill. Marshmallows will be provided at the campfire. Registration fee — Register by Aug. 10 9 p.m. Van Paris Shelter Bendix Woods County Park 56960 Timothy Road
Emma Molloy: In Her Own Words
Recycling and Sustainable Alternatives Workshop
AUG. 25 | NEW CARLISLE
Looking to “green up” your lifestyle? Learn about recycling options available throughout the county as well as some popular sustainable and eco-friendly products to replace single use plastics. Registration required — Register by Aug. 18 1-2 p.m. Baldwin One Room Schoolhouse Bonneyville Mill CR 131
Enjoy a stroll through the prairies at Bendix Woods County Park. Watch the progression of wildflowers and grasses. Learn about the insects and animals that call the prairie home. 9-10 a.m. Nature Center West Wing Bendix Woods County Park 56960 Timothy Road
Prairie Strolls
AUG. 29 | BRISTOL
AUG. 22 | ELKHART
Cast Iron Cookout
Enjoy a gorgeous summer day while perusing fine art, listening to live music and enjoying a sampling. Tickets can be purchased at booths throughout the garden to purchase food. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission fee Wellfield Botanic Gardens 1011 N. Main St.
Learn the basics of using cast iron cookware and how to best care for it. Taste a variety of recipes prepared in cast iron. Information will be provided on where to buy cast iron cookware as well as restoration techniques for used equipment. Registration fee — Register by Aug. 27 6-8 p.m. Feedlot Shelter Bonneyville Mill CR 131 n
Taste of the Gardens
KITCHENS THAT BRING HOMES
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TO LIFE
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www.shipshewanahomes.com | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 | 15
Deliver Flavor and Nutrition Despite Busy Schedules As kids and parents return to busy schedules full of sports, homework and weeknight activities, building a plan for nutritious and easy meals can be challenging. Piecing together a menu that fuels active minds without spending hours in the kitchen is a common goal for many families. (Family Features)
These recipes require minimal prep and call for onhand ingredients like dairy food favorites that provide nutrients people of all ages need to grow and maintain strong bodies and minds. Make supper a cinch with slow cooker macaroni and cheese, which lets you put the work in the hands of your slow cooker for a versatile dish that can be served when homework is finished. Whether you enjoy it together in the morning before getting the day started or mix it up with breakfast for dinner, this sustainable frittata is called “sustainable” because you can use leftover cheeses, veggies, ham, sausage and more to recycle ingredients you already have on hand.
Slow Cooker Macaroni and Cheese
Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 2 hour
s | Servings: 8
16 ounces elbow pasta 4 tablespoons butter 3 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese 2 cups whole milk 12 ounces evaporated milk 1/2 cup light sour cream
2 large eggs, beaten 3/4 teaspoon ground mustard pepper, to taste 8 ounces shredded sharp cheddar cheese 8 ounces grated provolone cheese
Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Drain and pour into large slow cooker. In small saucepan over medium heat, whis k butter and cream cheese until melted. Stir in milk, evaporated milk and sour cream; whisk until combined. Remove from heat; whisk in eggs, ground mustard and pepper, to taste. Stir in cheeses. Pour mixture over cooked macaron i and stir to combine cheese and pasta. Cover and cook 2 hours on low. Switch to warm until ready to serve. Recipe courtesy of Rachel Gurk of “Rachel Cooks” on behalf of Milk Means More.
Sustainable Frittata Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 8
Preheat oven to 450 F. Preheat cast-iron pan or oven-safe skillet over medium heat. In large bowl, mix eggs, milk and salt then add shredded cheese. Add cooked vegetables and meats to pan to reheat. Once vegetables have softened, add egg mixture to pan and scramble. Let sit over medium heat 1 minute. Carefully transfer to oven and bake 10-15 minutes. Frittata is done when eggs have set. Remove from oven and top with fresh herbs. Recipe courtesy of Jenn Fillenworth of “Jenny With the Good Eats” on behalf of Milk Means More. n 16 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 |
Shutterstock.com
12 eggs, beaten 1/4 cup whole milk, half and half or heavy cream 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups shredded cheese, any variety 3 cups assorted cooked vegetables and pre-cooked meats fresh herbs, for garnish (optional)
| YEAR-ROUND GARDENING |
Annual vines are an overlooked source of garden height By Joyce Arleen Corson, Guest Columnist and Master Gardener
Flowering vines add height to a garden, act as filler plants and can bloom for months in most growing zones. While it takes time for most perennial vines to become established and flower in their time frame, that is not a problem with annual vines like Hyacinth bean vine, one of my favorites. This spring-planted annual vine starts flowering by midsummer and continues right until frost. Despite the many advantages, many gardeners don’t think to use annual vines. Even garden centers tend to downplay them because the vines can become a tangled mess in stores. These plants are easy and inexpensive to start from seed and they require little maintenance for the beauty they provide. Not always will the seeds that drop regrow here in zone 5b in Indiana, but they are summer fun.
Purple hyacinth bean vine (Lablab purpureus), native to Africa, features heart-shaped leaves with purple veining on the undersides. I plant mine with a lightweight string to direct
their cinching growth. You can also plant with a trellis, in a container with a strong-stemmed annual like zinnia or anchor it in to an object such as a fence. I like planting a handful of seeds in a large potting container and let them vine into coils or keep them trimmed and call it a bonsai. The vines, which reach around 6 to 15 feet, have a deep purple cast. The profuse blooms are a rich lavender. The glossy pods are a luminous purple. At one time, the purple hyacinth bean was an important foraged food source. President Thomas Jefferson’s garden featured it at his summer home, Poplar Forest, but now it is mostly grown as an ornamental plant. While the pods are edible, they’re toxic uncooked. The plant is best grown by directly sowing seeds in the garden in the spring. As with so many flowering vines, the seeds are tough and germinate better if scarified first. The flowering will diminish once the pods form, though this is not a drawback because the pods also are attractive. Provide the plant with a sturdy support on which it can grow and collect the seed pods in the fall for planting and giving to friends next year. Watering typically isn’t necessary unless you have long stretches without rainfall. Color varieties are purple, white and pink. Master gardeners are great seed collectors. If you know one, ask if he or she has any extra seeds for you. n
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| Michiana House and Home | August 2021 | 17
Did You Know? the “Dog” days of summer By Julie Young, House and Home Writer
DISCOURAGING BAD BEHAVIOR
Adopting a furry friend can be a wonderful addition to your family and because this month is known as the “dog days” of summer, there is no better time to bring your new pooch home! But what do you need to know about raising your puppy right? We have the best tips to integrate a new companion into your world for a long and happy life!
Want to keep your dog from digging where they shouldn’t? Buy a small wading pool or other shallow plastic container, place it in a shady corner of the yard and fill it with sand, toys and yummy treats. Your pet can dig to their heart’s content and your flower garden will stay intact.
FEET FIRST August is hot in Indiana so before taking your pet for a walk, test the temperature of the pavement by placing your hand on the sidewalk for seven seconds. If you aren’t comfortable, your pet’s paws won’t be either. Stick to the grass, wait until later or invest in some paw protection.
• Kids may still be home to help with some of the responsibilities associated with pet ownership. • You may have more time to devote to the training and care of your pet before school activities get underway. • You are not planning any late summer travel that might disrupt your pet’s carefully cultivated routine. • You’ve considered your lifestyle, children’s ages and ability to care for a dog and are prepared to invest in their quality of life.
18 | Michiana House and Home | August 2021 |
It may not sound appetizing to a human, but beef bone broth and peanut butter frozen in an ice cube tray will be a welcome summertime treat for your canine. n
... and now you know!
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