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By Melissa Wynn
Going green is all about ‘re-use’ and ‘recycle’. And where is green more appropriate than in the garden. Composting is a great way to recycle your organic waste and return the nutrients to the earth. There are several composting devices on the market to choose from or you can simply make your own compost bin or compost pile. The concept is simple, hurry mother nature along in the decomposition process to create your own rich soil for your garden and houseplants. Once you have a chosen device, bin or pile, you are ready to begin. Choose a sheltered and lightly shaded area for your composting to protect against excessive moisture. Next, build your first layer of coarse brown vegetable matter, such as straw or dried leaves and pine needles. Green organics, such as grass clippings and kitchen scraps, will make up your second layer. Layer number three should be a thin layer of regular soil and a touch of regular garden fertilizer. The soil brings crucial microorganisms to the mix and the fertilizer gives your compost a good kick of essential nitrogen. Last but not least, comes a fourth thin layer of manure, bone meal, blood meal or plain ol’ dry dogfood. A covering of straw or burlap will help insulate the pile, but still allow good air flow. Layers should be piled loosely for good airflow. Dry ingredients should be moistened with a garden hose and your compost heap should maintain the consistency of a well wrung sponge. Turning your compost pile regularly with a shovel will help speed the process along. If your compost pile begins to smell, you need to turn it more often to keep it breathing. If it seems to be too compact, add more coarse material to keep it loose. Little by little, your pile of waste materials will break down and become the dark rich soil so beneficial to the garden. Your garden will be healthier and you will feel good about the organics you reused and recycled instead of sending it all to your local land fill.
basic facts courtesy of howtocompost.org and
compost-info-guide.com
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By Melissa Wynn
One of the many benefits of living in the higher elevations, is that our wildflower season lasts all summer long. Nature’s mountain garden is sometimes slow to start but as soon as the snow starts melting, the wildflowers begin to add splashes of color to the evergreen forest.
One of the earliest bloomers is the spectacular, bright red Snow Plant. This amazing plant has no chlorophyll and therefore has no greenery. The entire almost cone shaped plant is brilliant red and appears somewhat unreal. There is no confusing this lover of the high altitude forests with any other plant. Growing up through the last of the snow in the shade of the conifers, is common practice for the Snow Plant and the contrast is quite startling. I saw my first snow plant on a visit to the Gold Lake Lodge in the Lakes Basin Recreation Area around Graeagle. It instantly became my favorite local wildflower. The Snow Plant is rare and protected, so NEVER pick a snow plant. Bring your camera to capture the beauty, but leave the Snow Plant as you found it.
Indian Paintbrush in many varieties are common across the US and our neighborhood is no exception. Ranging in colors from pale orange to brightest red these familiar favorites are sure to be seen almost anywhere you wander in searching wildflowers. Indian Paintbrush is the state flower of Wyoming. An old legend says that a young Indian brave once painted the sunset with paintbrushes he was gifted by the Great Spirit. The brushes came in all the same colors as our paintbrush wildflower. When the brave completed his masterpiece in the sky, he left his brushes scattered across a field. The first Indian Paintbrush plants of natures garden then sprang to life, there among the magic.
Natures mountain garden was landscaped by volcanoes so rocky places abound. You wouldn’t think there would be many wildflowers in the rocks but the Mountain Penstemon would beg to differ. These woody stemmed, bright pink beauties thrive in gravel and even up high on rocky cliffs. Blooming June through August Mountain Penstemon dot the mountain sides with brilliant color all summer long.
Leopard Lily is one of California’s most conspicuous lilies. Bright orange with “leopard ” spots are sure to get noticed in the evergreen forest. Not only are these droopy headed blossoms loud in color they are also stand tall. A hearty stem allows these lovely lilies to reach heights over seven feet. Leopard Lilies like the water and grow in colonies along stream banks. These spectacular spotted wildflowers grow from bulbs that are edible. Native Americans dug the bulbs and steamed them. The bulbs are also eaten by various mountain mammals.
Bog Laurel is a small flowering shrub that , like the name indicates makes its home in marshy forest bogs. Pretty pink or purple flowers open their petals in late spring bringing some bling to the bog. Bog Laurel is slow to grow but long to live. After twenty years of growing the little bouquet of shrubbery may only be one foot tall. The bogs are home to several special plant species so looking for the Bog Laurel is sure to lead to many sensational wildflower finds.
The open meadows of nature’s garden are home to sometimes vast expanses of the sunny Mule Ears. Large varnished looking leaves shaped like mule ears give the plant its funny name. In May and June Mule Ears burst bright yellow, sunflower like blossoms stretching above the leaves on long stems. Growing one to three feet high Mule Ears are easy to spot. These blazing drops of meadow sunshine are one more wildflower reason to wander nature’s garden.
.wildflower.org
gardenguides.com
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Almanor Energy Plus
530-596-3128 Lic # 507200
Think Local!!!….Shop Local!!!
American made Solar Panels with 25 year warranties for the same price as imports! So…Call before you go solar. Call the local pros with service after the sale!
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By Virginia Rangel
With the snow beginning to melt away, most of us had forgotten about the rich possibilities the earth beneath offered. As more of your lawn and flower bed become exposed and the landscape changes from white to its vibrant green state, we are compelled to shake off winter by starting our spring garden.
Though starting a garden in April is past the window to plant herbs, because of the length of the plants maturation, there are many other possibilities for those still looking to have a diverse garden this spring. Considering a stop at Gray’s Flower Garden in Quincy may be a good place to start your “green-thumb” venture. Upon a very informative visit to Gray’s owner Sherri Curnow, was able to give some tips about getting a garden started for apring.
The most important thing about getting started, is soil preparation. The most common mistake is being over anxious. If you stick seeds in the ground and hope they will grow, you will lose time and money. Be patient. Quincy soil is mainly compacted and acidic and when you reach East Quincy it can become very rocky. If you encounter similar conditions with your soil, the next move would be to add a soil base of top soil at about six to eight inches. If top soil isn’t necessary, than getting some cheap soil testers can be a good way to identify what your soil might be lacking as far as nutrients go.
Root plants should go into the ground sometime around late April when the ground warms above fifty degrees Fahrenheit. If you put root plants in the ground too early, it is much harder for the seedlings to germinate. There are many tools to keep from freezing your seedlings. Why not put a blanket on our flower bed? Specially designed thermal row coverings allow moisture and light to reach your seedlings while keeping them from getting too cold. Walls of water keep the warmth from the day throughout the night as an early season plant protector.
Potatoes and onions should be planted sometime after Mother’s Day in May, along with Sweet Peas, which thrive in the Sierra’s. One thing to remember about potatoes is to make sure they aren’t planted in soggy ground.
Summer blooms like lilies and gladiolas need to be planted now. Vegetables are generally sensitive plants. Tomatotes and squaash freeze easily, but are fast growing. While Quincy and Greenville, at the lower elevations, can plant veggies sooner, places like Portola and Lake Almanor will have to be patient a little longer. Squash can be started indoors to prepare for May planting. Cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower can be planted at the end of this month.
Being able to efficiently live off the earth is becoming more of a necessity to ensure the health and sustainability of our future. Utilizing our resources by nurturing the land in turn allows us to nurture ourselves and every generation that follows.
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Photos By: Terry Weltmer and Tracey Brostek
Life can sometimes feel so rushed and demanding. Often people search out moments of peace and serenity to compensate for the frustration of work and responsibilities. Once at home you dream of arriving at a sanctuary, and I know for myself that involves a beautiful garden to lose my thoughts in. How, though, does a person go about growing this perfect garden? Where should I start? So to answer this question I sought out my old landlord Terry, who also runs the landscaping company Mountainside Irrigation and Landscaping.
We discussed sustainable practices and the demands of living in an alpine environment where water can sometimes be scarce and sunlight abundant. His first suggestion was to wait on pruning and raking up pine needles and other plant debris until the end of May or later due to spring snow, frosts and drought. Once the time is right, after the end of May or later in most of our mountain region, it is appropriate to start planting. He pointed out the importance of selecting plants for your garden that are native to the area. So in hearing my choices for planning my personal garden, I know I would love some wild mountain lupine. The benefit of this one is that the plants are drought tolerant and more resilient in this climate.
Now the other problem I have encountered with my yard is soil. I find in some places it is dry and rocky and not very nutrient-rich. I tried expensive plant stimulants and fertilizers last year to induce growth, much to my dismay. Had I spoken with Terry a year sooner I could have saved myself some money after he informed me of the benefits of compost (organic plant matter). It turns out the best way to improve soils fertility and tilth is with natural compost.
Since I am the sort of person who never likes to waste, due to my Grandmother who never so much as wasted a rubber band, I inquired more about sustainability. Sustainability is a word you might hear often, but some may not be sure what it refers to. Basically, sustainability refers to reusing available materials instead of buying new ones. Finding ways to save water and money by designing or getting help to design your garden to require less. One example in my own garden is that I have re-purposed all of the boulders and stones from my yard and used them to line gardens, paths, and my driveway.
Irrigation installation was also recommended to reduce water use. See what hidden treasures you have in your yard already that can make the landscape uniquely yours. It can be a lot of work and even some heart break, when something doesn’t survive. So, I plan on making some adjustments this year and hope it works out alright. I know I will probably be calling up Terry again for some help in my own garden.
Finally I would like to quote my friend Terry and his crew “Bringing a garden to life requires time, effort, energy, and money, but once you are able to relax and take pleasure in your well-thought-out garden you will realize that the rewards are priceless.” Hopefully I will end up with my personal sanctuary once all of the initial work is over. Good luck with your green thumbs and I hope your plants grow well!
(Click on photos to enlarge)
        
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By Melissa Wynn
photos by Melissa Wynn
Cobalt blue glass has been used in home decor since the time of the pharaohs and continues to stand the test of time. Cobalt is an element. Cobalt salts have long been mixed with glass during production to give it the rich signature deep blue color. Long time Westwood resident Gail Brown, has an amazing collection that took her late husband Craig Brown thirty years to build.
Craig’s work in aircraft mechanics took him all over the country and he loved to bring home a new piece from each destination whenever possible. There is a map that hangs on a bedroom wall with a pin in each place that he visited. He and his sons would poke a pin in the map each time he left so the boys always knew where he would be. It was by chance that the map also shows where most of his cobalt glass was acquired.
Cobalt blue glass pieces can be found in nearly every room of Gail’s home, with the main body of her collection being in her lovely kitchen. The large window above the kitchen sink shimmers with deep sea blue light, as the hanging glass filters sunlight into the room. Several animal figures including a rooster, butterfly, kitten and turtle call the windowsill home and just glow with life in the morning sun. A rolling pin, 2 pitchers, a hand bell and several canisters along with more cobalt glass line the three shelves on the opposite wall. Two full place settings accented by two tall candlesticks, salt and pepper shakers, butter dish and a lovely vase on the kitchen table keep the cobalt flowing through the kitchen like an indigo dream.
As I wandered through Gail’s home, there was a new cobalt treasure every where I turned. The variety of shapes and sizes is unbelievable. Gail even has a hand size antique butter churn with the cow stamp on the bottom. I think my favorites are the two life size heads that Gail and Craig called the ‘talking heads’. That is unless one came home to find the two gorgeous bald beauties back to back, in which case they were the NOT talking heads. Too funny. Gail’s favorite piece is a tiny Hershey Kiss, complete with the swirl on top, but she is also partial to the several cobalt glass slippers that Cinderella would have been proud to sport to the ball.
Whether its candy dishes shaped like dancing dolls or hanging grapes or a giant ball you can find it in spectacular cobalt blue glass at the Brown home. Thank you Gail for sharing your stunning collection!
(click on photos to enlarge)
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Eileen | Mountain Valley Living Magazine
Justice Home – Solar Installation Near Susanville – Photo by Theresa Phillips
A LOCAL SOLAR PROJECT
LASSEN MUNICIPAL UTILITY DISTRICT
Rebates offered by LMUD: the residential per watt rebate for 2011 is $3.46 with a maximum of $10,000. 530-257-4174.
PSREC residential members may be eligible for rebates of up to $6,000 maximum for residential; $12,000 for commercial/irrigation installations. All rebates will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call (530) 832-4261 ext. 6037 or (800) 555-2207 ext. 6037. Visit www.ccenergy.com
The Tahoe Donner Public Utility District is offering rebates of $3.65 per Watt installed. The rebates cap out at 3,000 watts for residential and 5,000 watts for commercial. Call Kathy Neus at (530) 582-3922. Visit them at www.tdpud.org.
By Theresa Phillips, LMUD Energy Services Manager
Photos by Theresa Phillips
The sun seems to be shining a little brighter at the home of Mike Justice and Kathy Healy-Justice. That’s because the Justices’ are enjoying the benefits of their solar electric system, LMUD’s first official grid-tied photovoltaic electric generating system installed just over two years ago.
Renewable energy and conservation has been a long time passion for Mike & Kathy. Adding a photovoltaic system to their passive solar home (known as an envelope home) has been a long time coming. The Justice home, built in 1985, was inspired by a house designed by Tom Smith in South Lake Tahoe.
The Smith home had been featured on the cover of Better Home’s and Garden during the early 80’s. After reading about the home’s passive solar design, Kathy and Mike decided to drive to Tahoe to find the home and to see if they could get a closer look. As luck would have it, the Solar Energy Society was hosting an open house. The Justices’ took a tour and instantly knew this was the design for them.
Kathy, who already held a bachelors degree, received her “Construction Trades Certificate.” from Lassen Community College’s “Building Trades” program. This enabled her to design the house the Justices’ have called home for over 20 years.
The Justice home is about as energy efficient as they come. The home’s design takes full advantage of passive solar, the main source of heat. As the sun streams in the south facing windows, it heats the air that is circulated throughout the home. On cloudy days when there is less sun, wood heat is used as a supplement. The Justices’ generally use about a cord of wood per winter.
During the summer months, the large south windows are shaded, restricting the amount of sunlight that enters the building. With the aid of the cool night air the house stays comfortable all summer long without central air or an evaporative cooler.
The home also has a solar water heating system, triple-pane windows, energy efficient appliances and lighting. An energy efficient home like this makes the best candidate for a photovoltaic system.
For years the Justices’ wanted to add a photovoltaic system to their home. According to Mike, “We wanted to take advantage of the wonderful sunshine we have here in Lassen County so we could generate our own electricity. Lassen County has over 300 sunny days each year.”
To learn more about LMUD’s photovoltaic rebate program or to find out if a P.V. system is right for you, call LMUD’s Energy Services Manager, Theresa Phillips, at 530-257-4174. You can also log on to www.gosolarcalifornia.org to learn more about how solar electric systems work and to find a qualified installer in our area.
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 No more sticky zippers, photo courtesy bigstockphoto  Remove Creases.... Got a Sticky Zipper?
Try rubbing a lead pencil over the zipper teeth.
Got a permanent crease you need removed?
Use white vinegar and a hot iron to steam it right out.
Got a kink in a necklace?
Dab some petroleum jelly on the knot and use 2 straight pins to wiggle it free.
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By Melissa Wynn
March brings the first day of spring to the calendar but not always the weather to match it in the higher elevations of the Sierras. I find March to be my month of spring cleaning projects; throw the old out with the winter and make room for the newness of spring. Checking just one or two projects a week off the list is a great way to kill some time in the last weeks of the season of cabin fever and get ‘ye ole’ homestead ship-shape in the process. What’s on your list… perhaps a few of these?
- Clean out the refrigerator and defrost the freezer. This makes room for the spring fishing catch.
- Clean the oven; it’s time to fire up the BBQ.
- Organize the cookware so that the baking dishes are in the back and the crock pot is in the front; this makes it easier to spend time outdoors.
- Go through your clothes, put away the snowsuit and freshen up the swimsuit. We always need a few sweaters for the cool evenings but bring out the tank tops anyway.
- Put away the flannel sheets and break out the cotton sheets; we will soon sleep with open windows.
- Organize the garage with the snow blower in the back and the soil and planter pots in the front – it’s almost time to plant a few things inside. Put all the camping and fishing gear together and accessible.
- Evaluate the woodshed. I believe the sooner wood cutting chores are done the sooner we can camp all weekend.
- Shovel the ashes from the fireplace or wood stove and have the chimney swept.
- Rake up the lawn as soon as the snow melts away and make room for the sprouts that promise summer is coming.
- Daylight Savings Time begins March 13th this year. On the 12th, at bedtime, set your clocks ahead one hour and check the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
The seasons are a-changin’ my friends. Let’s get ready to play outside!
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Winter is waning and spring is around the corner. March is a great month for mountain dwellers to plan a non-toxic gardening strategy. There are many home remedy tricks for pest prevention and plant protection. Most likely you already have these problem-solving products in your home. Any that you do not have are easily and economically obtainable. Listed below are a few ingredients you may want to try:
INSECT REPELLENTS: Diatomaceous Earth ~ Cucumber Peels ~ Dryer Sheets ~ Garlic ~ Cayenne Pepper ~ Bone Meal ~ Talcum Powder ~ Spearmint ~ Peppermint ~ Nutra Sweet ~ Lavender ~ Dry Mustard ~ Ground Black Pepper
PLANT TONICS: Aspirin ~ Beer ~ Oatmeal ~ Chamomile Tea ~ Sugar ~ Flour ~ Egg Shells ~ Banana Peels ~ Powdered Milk ~ Mouthwash ~ Baking Soda ~ Corn Syrup ~ Apple Juice
WEED KILLERS: Vinegar ~ Rock Salt ~ Liquid Dish Detergent ~ Boiling Water ~ Lemon Juice ~ Corn Gluten Meal ~ Bleach ~ Rubbing Alcohol ~ Newspaper ~ Cabbage Leaves ~ Mulch ~ Canola Oil ~ Murphy’s Oil Soap
*** ACE HARDWARE is committed to helping communities live a more sustainable lifestyle with their “Help Earth Choices” program. To get more information regarding garden projects and eco-friendly solutions, go to your local Ace Hardware Center or visit them online at acehardware.com.
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by Melissa Wynn
 Image courtesy of murphybeds.com Whether you are refurbishing a tiny studio house, like we did, or just looking to add a sleeping space to your office or den, a Murphy bed is a no-hassle solution. The cabinetry options are endless. Ranging from an elaborate, professionally constructed wall unit with closet, shelves and drop down night tables and desk to the simple do-it-yourself cabinet that we chose, the possibilities are as versatile as the people who want them. We began with an easy-to-read and complete do-it-yourself list of tools and materials needed that conveniently came with the Murphy bed mechanism that we ordered from murphybeds.com. One quick trip to the building supply store and we were ready to break out the step-by-step instructions also included. It was surprising how quick and easy it was to put it all together. Thanks to murphybeds.com we completed the entire project in a single afternoon, although we did add a few more coats of stain the next day. Hindsight being 20/20, I would have stained all the pieces as they were cut, before assembly as the instructions had recommended. Lorraine Shoemaker and I assembled the mechanism while Ben and Pat Graham cut the lumber to the instructions specs. Once Ben had built the outer frame, Lorraine and I attached the headboard while the boys put the bed together. After that it was all about securing the frame to the wall and attaching the bed box to the murphybeds.com mechanism that makes raising and lowering the bed effortless. No heavy lifting involved. We had a blast building our Murphy bed and only spent about $700 not including the mattress. Murphy beds come in all shapes and sizes so there is something for everyone. Explore the possibilities @ murphybeds.com
 Ben Graham lays out the murphy bed  Lorraine Shoemaker and Melissa Wynn attach the headboard  Murphy bed ready for mattress  Murphy bed closed
Murphy bed frame attached to the wall
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As part of the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008, HVACR tax incentives for homeowners and businesses were extended. Geothermal systems have become part of
- The current legislation covers installations through December 31, 2016.
- Homeowners who install geothermal systems may be able to claim up to 30% of the installed cost in tax credits in the year the system is placed into service.
- An extension of the Commercial Building Tax Deduction until 2013 that allows building owners to deduct up to $1.80 per square foot for improvements in overall performance.
How Geothermal Works
Your own backyard has the potential to be an energy source for heating and cooling comfort. Outdoor air temperatures fluctuate throughout the year with the changing seasons. In contrast, ground temperatures about four to six feet below the Earth’s surface remain relatively moderate and constant all year. That’s because the Earth absorbs 47% of all the heat energy that reaches its surface from the sun. A geothermal system circulates a water-based solution through a buried loop system to take advantage of these constant temperatures. A single piece of equipment has the ability to heat and cool your home, while providing some or all of your home’s hot water as well. Geothermal systems can save you 30% to 70% on your monthly utility bills.
Positive Cash Flow
According to manufacturers, from the day you install a new GeoComfort Geothermal System, you’ll see immediate savings. Examples of savings for new home construction shows the extra cost of installing geothermal marginally raises the mortgage payment. It also shows that the energy savings more than makes up the difference in costs.
All information is based upon our understanding of the legislation. Consult your local tax professional for the latest information. Source: Almanor Energy Plus, Geocomfort® Geothermal Systems
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CONQUERING CARPENTER ANTS
When it comes to ants, there is no “one size fits all” treatment for all species and circumstances. In fact, what will work to prevent and control infestations of one species of ant may actually encourage infestation when applied to other species. When inspecting for Carpenter Ant infestations, look for the following indicators:
Physical Appearance – Carpenter Ants are often called the “Big Black Ant” although some subspecies may be reddish-brown in color. Size may range from ¼ inch to ¾ inch. The ants you see may be either wingless workers or winged reproductive ants from the colony.
Frass – As carpenter ants bore their nests, they leave behind several piles of fibrous, finely shredded sawdust-like material called “frass” which is made up of wood shavings, soil, and insect parts.
Sounds – If you identify a potential nest site, try tapping against it with a screwdriver with your ear placed to the wall. Alarmed Carpenter Ants will make a faint clicking or rustling sound.
Wood Damage- Look for smooth, clean galleries and small windows or slit-like openings in infested wood as a sign of nesting. These slits acts as “garbage chutes” used to dispose of frass and other materials.
Trails – Carpenter ants form tight, closely associated trails that can be traced to the nesting area. Look for trails along carpet edges, door frames, fence tops, etc.
Prevention
Caulk cracks and crevices around the exterior of the home that provide entry.
Trim branches and limbs of trees and shrubs that touch the building to keep ants from gaining access via these routes.
Eliminate damp conditions that promote wood decay such as water leaks and poor drainage problems around foundations.
Replace decayed or damaged wood and correct problems that caused the decay, such as clogged rain gutters or leaky roofs.
Increase ventilation to damp areas beneath buildings and in attics.
Store firewood up off the ground and several feet away from buildings to discourage carpenter ant colonies. If you suspect infestation in your woodpile, do not store firewood inside.
Locate nests
Observe ant activity at night.
Follow trails.
Sawdust accumulations with pieces of dead ants are good indicators.
Main nests are often outside in old tree stumps, fence posts, or firewood piles.
Satellite colonies may nest indoors on moist wood.
Control
Many natural products are on the market that discourage carpenter ants from forming nests, but short of getting an anteater, your best bet is to find the least-caustic product that eliminates the existing nest, rather than just causing the nest to move locations. Making an environment unsuitable for ants is an arduous vigil if your goal is to avoid using poisons.
SOURCES:
Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California
DoMyOwnPestControl.com
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Ice Dams: Cold Weather Culprits
By Brian Wilson
State Farm® agent
 Nothing says winter to many people like heavy snow blankets and icicles hanging from the roof of their homes. But, the snow and icicles present a subtle danger, ice dams.
After several days of melting-freezing cycles, it’s common for the melted snow and ice to work up under the roof shingles until water enters the attic and eventually does damage to the ceilings, walls and contents. Ice dams that go unnoticed for an extended period of time can significantly damage the home and its contents.
The right weather conditions for ice dams is usually when outside air temperatures are below freezing for several days with several inches of snow on the roof. Research shows keeping the attic air temperature below freezing when the outside air temperature is in the low 20s can reduce the risk of ice dams.
There is no guarantee an ice dam won’t damage your home, but you can consider these steps in trying to avoid ice dams from forming in the first place:
Before winter, clean leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts.
Eliminate any heat sources in unfinished attics. Ductwork in the attic should be sealed and insulated.
Prevent warm, moist air in living spaces from entering unfinished attics with a good air barrier and appropriate water vapor control at the base of the attic.
Do not install mechanical equipment or water heaters in attics, especially in cold climates.
Evaluate the insulation and ventilation in your attic. Most experts agree the R-value of attic insulation should be at least R-30 (R-38 is preferable in northern climates).
Provide good attic ventilation to replace warm air in unfinished attics with cold outside air.
Make every effort to keep snow on your roof to a minimum. Long-handled devices on the market called “roof rakes” let you stand on the ground and pull the snow off the roof. Remember to stand clear of the falling snow and ice.
Make sure a secondary moisture barrier is installed if your roof covering is going to be replaced in the near future.
Ice dams can be damaging, but a few, simple steps can reduce the possibility of build-up. Talk with an insurance professional for more information on these and other home safety tips
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For existing homeowners who are ready to make energy efficient improvements, there are also plenty of reasons to act by December 31st when several federal tax credit opportunities will expire. From new hot water heaters to furnaces, woodstoves and windows, local retailers can steer you to the rebates while some will even handle the paperwork and redemption. One should also check with their utility company for local incentives.
HURRY ON HOME IMPROVEMENTS:
WHICH FEDERAL TAX CREDITS Are Scheduled to expire 12-31-10?
-
-
- Biomass Stoves (Including wood & pellet)
- Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
- Insulation
- Roofs (Metal & Asphalt)
- Water Heaters (non-solar)
- Windows & Doors
__________________________________________
- Tax Credit:
- 30% of cost with no upper limit
- Expires:
- December 31, 2016
- Details:
- Existing homes & new construction qualify. Both principal residences and second homes qualify. Rentals do not qualify.
- • Geothermal Heat Pumps
- • Small Wind Turbines (Residential)
- • Solar Energy Systems
- __________________________________________
- Tax Credit:
- Credit Details: 30% of the cost, up to $500 per .5 kW of power capacity
- Expires:
- December 31, 2016
- Details:
- Existing homes & new construction qualify. Must be your principal residence. Rentals and second homes do not qualify.
- • Fuel Cells (Residential Fuel Cell and Microturbine System)
- Fuel cells are an important enabling technology for the hydrogen economy and have the potential to revolutionize the way we power our nation, offering cleaner, more-efficient alternatives to the combustion of gasoline and other fossil fuels. - Requirements: Efficiency of at least 30% and must have a capacity of at least 0.5 kW. Tax Credit includes installation costs.
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Add a little accent to your life with furniture, gifts & accessories from La Casa Bella Fine Furnishings at 230 Main Street Quincy, CA. Call the friendly staff at (530) 283-1378 today!
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- Almanor Energy Plus Heating • Air Conditioning • Solar
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Solar Energy from the experts at Almanor Energy Plus, Inc. at Lake Almanor. Serving all of Lassen and Plumas Counties, they offer 24 hour emergency on call service. They offer guarantee after guarantee on their quality heating and cooling systems and on their service. For Service …. ON TIME…ALL THE TIME…Call Louis Benny at 530) 596-3128
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From Brian Sloboda, Courtesy Lassen Municipal Utility District (LMUD)
Energy-Saving Tips for a Happy Holiday Season:
Ask for Energy Star-rated appliances and CFLs.
Skip the electronics and get the kids board games.
Do not preheat the oven when cooking large pieces of meat.
Lower thermostats and replace HVAC filters every 30 days.
Check windows and doors for leaks and seal them.
Install timers on outdoor lighting displays.
Decorate with LED lights.
Adjust settings on video game consoles to the power-saving feature.
Vanquish energy vampires with a smart power strip.
A string of traditional mini lights
uses 36 watts of power, but a string of LED lights
uses only 5 watts and lasts up to 10 times longer.
LEDs typically are made of plastic and will not break.
Many are brighter than traditional mini lights.
The drawbacks? A string of LEDs can cost two to
three times more than traditional lights, and many
homeowners have reported mixed results with the
lights. Unlike traditional incandescent lights, LEDs
use computer chips to create the light. Depending
on the quality of the manufacturing process, the
brightness and life may not be what is expected.
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Any way you stack it, firewood is available for cutting on National Forest lands. Permits are for noncommercial, personal use only. Cost of firewood permits are $10.00 per cord. Multiple permits may be purchased up to a ten cord limit per household with a minimum purchase of two cords per permit. Permits are also available for firewood cutters who wish to cut wood on both the Lassen and Plumas National Forests.
Permit tags are sold with a map of the forest and firewood cutting regulations. It is important to point out that the Plumas has different restrictions than the Lassen and the Plumas firewood map has those restrictions printed on it. Pine, cedar and fir are favorites in our region.
One must obtain firewood cutting permits with complete rules and maps available at a local US Forest Service ranger station.
Eagle Lake District: (530) 257-4188
Sierraville Ranger District (530) 994-3401
Almanor Ranger District (530) 258-2141
Lassen National Forest Supervisors Office (530) 257-2151
Hat Creek Ranger District (530) 336-5521
Comparing Firewood Types and How They’ll Burn.
According to The Chimney Sweep Online Fireplace, Woodstove, Gas Stove and Barbecue Shop, generally speaking, you’ll get best results burning the highest density (heaviest) hardwood with the highest BTU (available heat) content that can be found in your area. The following shows weight per cord and BTU content ( 1 MBTU = one million btu). Note: one btu (British Thermal Unit) will approximately raise one pound of water one ºF.
Cedar ………. 1913 lbs. per cord and 12.2 Mbtu per cord.
Western White Pine ………. 2,236 lbs and 14.3 Mbtu per cord.
Ponderosa Pine………. 2,380 lbs. per cord and 15.2 Mbtu per cord.
Douglas Fir ………. 2.970 pounds and 20.7 Mbtu per cord.
For comparison, White Oak is 4,012 lbs. and 25.7 Mbtu per cord.
Stack it Well… Keep It Dry!
Wood will not dry out correctly under certain conditions and even if it is dry, it must be kept dry. You must consider what your wood pile will look like in the winter when you choose the spot for stacking. You won’t want it buried under a roof that drops snow as you won’t want it under a tight fitting tarp that will tend to tear under the weather’s pressure. You also do not want your firewood pressed several inches into the mud and grass. Often businesses discard used pallets which can work well to help keep your wood pile off the ground. If possible, choose a spot with adequate sunlight to keep the snow melted off. Also if possible, stay away from stacking wood under trees, eaves and other structures that can funnel rain onto your wood. To get the most out of your tarps, you can use old ragged tarps to cover the newer ones and thus shield them from destructive sunlight rays. In a perfect world, all wood would be stored indoors in a garage, wood shed or a building attached to the house but that is not always possible. So stack your wood with some air space between the rows to help it dry out after cutting and take care to keep it dry all winter.
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Don’t Let Water Damage Dampen Your Day
By Brian Wilson
State Farm® agent
Water damage can dampen your day. 250,000 families have their homes ruined and their lives disrupted each winter by water pipes that freeze and burst. When the outside temperature drops below freezing, water pipes with little or no insulation are likely to freeze and break.
Recovering from frozen pipes is not as simple as calling a plumber. An eighth-inch (3 millimeter) crack in a pipe can discharge more than 250 gallons (946 liters) of water a day. And, the result can include damaged floors, furniture, appliances and treasured family heirlooms.
There is an advantage to spending time preventing frozen pipes when you consider the soggy consequences of doing nothing. Minimize the chance your pipes will freeze with these simple, reminders.
Before the cold hits:
- Insulate pipes in unheated areas and those that run along outside walls, floors and ceilings.
- Seal leaks that allow cold air inside near where pipes are located.
- Disconnect garden hoses.
When the mercury drops:
- Run a small trickle of water from hot and cold faucets during extreme cold.
- Open cabinet doors to allow heat to get to piping under sinks and vanities near exterior walls.
Before you go away
- Set the thermostat in your house no lower than 55°F (12°C).
- Ask a friend or neighbor to check your house daily to make sure it’s warm enough or
- Shut off and drain the water system. Be aware that if you have a fire protection sprinkler system in your house, it will be deactivated when you shut off the water.
If your pipes freeze:
- Don’t take chances. If you turn on your faucets and nothing comes out, seek the advice of a professional plumber. If you detect that your water pipes have frozen and burst, turn off the water at the main shut-off valve in the house; leave the water faucets turned on.
- Never try to thaw a pipe with a torch or other open flame. Seek the advice and assistance of a professional plumber. Do not use electrical appliances in areas of standing water because you could be electrocuted.
Don’t let water damage dampen your day. Spend a few minutes protecting your water pipes to save time and expense down the road. Talk with an insurance professional for more tips and information for protecting your home or apartment.
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Highest Prices Guaranteed For CRV Containers! Make extra money by helping save your planet! Drop off at 705-810 Us Highway 395 E. Susanville, CA. 530-252-1001
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Heating, Air Conditioning, Solar Energy- Visit Almanor Energy Plus to speak with Louis Benny, your local comfort advisor! (530) 596-3128
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It isn’t much fun, but maybe you can involve the family and have a contest for whomever fills the most bags! Anyhow, leaf raking is a must and so here are a few tips to make the most of your efforts:
- Make sure everyone helping has a good, sturdy rake with wide tines that will bend slightly, under pressure. This helps make the most of each and every sweep. Of course, the more help the better, especially if you have a big yard!
- Check the direction of the wind before you start raking, and always begin down-wind, or you’ll end up having to re-rake the same area you just raked, no fun.
- Short sweeps are better than long ones, in order to gather, and hold onto, the biggest volume of leaves in a single motion.
- Raking the leaves into small piles, and then raking small piles into larger ones, is another tried and tested method of taking care of the build-up.
- If you have a very large yard it may also be helpful to tackle one section at a time, until the job is complete.
Read more at Suite101: Leaf Raking Tips: The Age-Old Autumn Dilemma of Cleaning Up Your Yard http://landscaping.suite101.com/article.cfm/leaf_raking_tips#ixzz0xGATq4j5
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Great information from the US Department of Energy
As much as half of the energy used in your home goes to heating and cooling. So making smart decisions about your home’s heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can have a big effect on your utility bills — and your comfort. Take these steps to increase the efficiency of your heating and cooling system. For more information, see our Guide to Energy Efficient Heating & Cooling  (708KB).
Change your air filter regularly
Check your filter every month, especially during heavy use months (winter and summer). If the filter looks dirty after a month, change it. At a minimum, change the filter every 3 months. A dirty filter will slow down air flow and make the system work harder to keep you warm or cool — wasting energy. A clean filter will also prevent dust and dirt from building up in the system — leading to expensive maintenance and/or early system failure.
Tune up your HVAC equipment yearly
Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort. Learn more:
Install a programmable thermostat
A programmable thermostat is ideal for people who are away from home during set periods of time throughout the week. Through proper use of pre-programmed settings, a programmable thermostat can save you about $180 every year in energy costs.
Seal your heating and cooling ducts
Ducts that move air to-and-from a forced air furnace, central air conditioner, or heat pump are often big energy wasters. Sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system by as much as 20 percent — and sometimes much more.
Focus first on sealing ducts that run through the attic, crawlspace, unheated basement, or garage. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap them in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. Next, look to seal any other ducts that you can access in the heated or cooled part of the house. See our Duct Sealing brochure (1.13MB) for more information.
Consider installing ENERGY STAR qualified heating and cooling equipment
If your HVAC equipment is more than 10 years old or not keeping your house comfortable, have it evaluated by a professional HVAC contractor. If it is not performing efficiently or needs upgrading, consider replacing it with a unit that has earned the ENERGY STAR. Depending on where you live, replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with ENERGY STAR qualified equipment can cut your annual energy bill by nearly $200. But before you invest in a new HVAC system, make sure that you have addressed the big air leaks in your house and the duct system. Sometimes, these are the real sources of problems rather than your HVAC equipment.
Ask about proper installation of your new equipment
Replacing your old heating and cooling equipment with new, energy-efficient models is a great start. But to make sure that you get the best performance, the new equipment must be properly installed. In fact, improper installation can reduce system efficiency by up to 30 percent — costing you more on your utility bills and possibly shortening the equipment’s life.
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Did You Know?
ENERGY STAR qualified windows, doors and skylights can reduce your energy bills up to 15% while helping protect the environment.
As of June 1, 2009, windows, doors, and skylights with U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) ratings of less than or equal to 0.30 are eligible for a federal tax credit of 30 percent of the product price, up to $1,500. Although it seems complicated to determine which products meet those requirements, ENERGY STAR makes it easy. Look for the following ENERGY STAR labels and you can be sure the product you are buying is eligible for the tax credit. You can also call or stop by your local glass shop like Peterson Glass in Chester to find out more.
Qualifying products purchased by December 31, 2010 are eligible for a tax credit equal to 30 percent of the product cost. Installation is not included; be sure to obtain an itemized invoice from your retailer or installer. The maximum amount of homeowner credit for all improvements combined (including roofing, insulation, HVAC, and water heaters) is $1,500 during 2009 and 2010.
It just got harder for a TV to earn the ENERGY STAR. Now TVs that carry the government’s ENERGY STAR label are, on average, 40% more efficient than conventional models. Available in stores nationwide, these TVs will help consumers save even more energy and money, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and still deliver all the features and performance quality they expect.
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How do I know if I have enough insulation in my attic? |
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A quick way to see if you need more insulation is to look across your attic. If your insulation is level with or below the joists, you probably need to add more insulation (but remember to seal the air leaks before you insulate). If you can’t see the joists because the insulation is above them, then you probably have enough and adding more will likely not be cost effective. Even if you have plenty of insulation, it may not be performing well due to cold air leaking through the insulation into the house. So make sure to look for signs of air leaks and seal them up as you find them. Visit ENERGY STAR Home Sealing (website below) for more information
Yes, biomass stoves can qualify for a tax credit which include qualifying wood and pellet stoves.
| How much: |
30% of the cost of the stove (including installation/labor costs), up to $1,500. The cost of the fuel is not included. Which components associated with the stove are also eligible? |
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Tax credit in effect in 2009 and 2010. Must be installed in your principal residence before December 31, 2010. |
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The stoves must be used for heat or water heating and have a thermal efficiency rating of at least 75% as measured using a lower heating value.
The law defines “biomass fuel” as any plant-derived fuel available on a renewable or recurring basis, including agricultural crops and trees, wood and wood waste and residues (including wood pellets), plant (including aquatic plants), grasses, residues and fibers. |
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Source: US Department of Energy, http://www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_sealing.hm_improvement_sealing
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The US Department of Energy recommends that you maintain your equipment to prevent future problems and unwanted costs. Keep your cooling and heating system at peak performance by having a contractor do annual pre-season check-ups. Contractors get busy once summer and winter come, so it’s best to check the cooling system in the spring and the heating system in the fall. To remember, you might plan the check-ups around the time changes in the spring and fall.
A typical maintenance check-up should include the following.
- Check thermostat settings to ensure the cooling and heating system keeps you comfortable when you are home and saves energy while you are away.
- Tighten all electrical connections and measure voltage and current on motors. Faulty electrical connections can cause unsafe operation of your system and reduce the life of major components.
- Lubricate all moving parts. Parts that lack lubrication cause friction in motors and increases the amount of electricity you use.
- Check and inspect the condensate drain in your central air conditioner, furnace and/or heat pump (when in cooling mode). A plugged drain can cause water damage in the house and affect indoor humidity levels.
- Check controls of the system to ensure proper and safe operation. Check the starting cycle of the equipment to assure the system starts, operates, and shuts off properly.
- Check all gas (or oil) connections, gas pressure, burner combustion and heat exchanger. Improperly operating gas (or oil) connections are a fire hazard and can contribute to health problems. A dirty burner or cracked heat exchanger causes improper burner operation. Either can cause the equipment to operate less safely and efficiently.
Actions To Do Yourself
- Inspect, clean, or change air filters once a month in your central air conditioner, furnace, and/or heat pump. Your contractor can show you how to do this. A dirty filter can increase energy costs and damage your equipment, leading to early failure.
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From SierraScapes, Landscape Contractor based in the Almanor Basin
It is once again time to consider those late summer and fall landscape projects. These tips will hopefully save you a few bucks and some time in preparation for next year’s landscape season.
If you have been contemplating contacting a landscape contractor, now is the best time to do so. Planning for next year’s landscape should start now.
It’s also time to take advantage of the fall sales that nurseries typically have and purchase those trees, shrubs and plants you’ve been wanting. In addition, fall is a great time for planting just about anything. Planting now allows the plants to adjust to the soil and other conditions before going dormant. Fall planting also provides for a more established landscape come spring and early summer… so you’ll be able to enjoy and relax when summer arrives.
Prepare your lawn for next season by aerating and fertilizing in the fall. Now it’s time to give your lawn the nutrients it will need to survive the cold months ahead and spring back to a beautiful green once the spring snow thaws. The holes created by aerating allow your grass to receive extra oxygen, fertilizer and water. Also, don’t forget to get those leaves off the lawn during the fall and winter months. A spring lawn trying to grow underneath a blanket of leaves will tend to struggle into the summer months. If you are interested in installing a sod or seed lawn, early fall is a great time to get this done. Just like fall planting, fall lawn installation will give your grass a jumpstart come spring. A little extra time spent on your lawn this fall will pay great rewards next landscape season.
Make sure your irrigation system is properly turned off once the weather becomes consistently cold and the temperature routinely drops into the 30s. As a landscape contractor, an unfortunate amount of our spring phone calls are for irrigation systems that froze during the winter and are now creating big spring headaches. Turning off your irrigation clock is the first step, but making sure the water source to your irrigation system is turned off is the most important step. If you are unsure or have questions regarding the proper techniques for successfully turning off your system for the winter, call your local landscape contractor.
Late summer and fall are great times to either start a few late season landscape projects or prepare for a successful spring landscape season. Whichever it may be, get out there and take advantage of the cooler days and better deals that you can get from nurseries and landscape contractors. If anything, take some time and enjoy the fall colors your landscape has to offer and bask in the tranquil beauty of your surrounding flora.
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FENG SHUI INDOORS
by Jeanne Brovelli, Interior Re-designer
La Casa Bella Fine Furnishings
According to the ancient practice of Feng Shui, our home tells a story. It tells about who we think we are and reflects not only our external circumstances, but the inner workings of our minds.
The chi is considered the flow of energy in a home or garden.
Consider doing this little exercise: you be the chi and do a walkthrough in your home. You will probably find some very interesting things, as I did when I did this exercise. Think of yourself as energy flowing and how easily, swiftly, too swiftly, abruptly, disjointedly, gracefully, whatever way … you flow through your home. This will give you lots of information about how to improve the energy flow and the feel of your home as well.
Entryway- Considered the most important aspect of the home, it is said to speak of the health and safety of those within. Things to consider:
Can you find the entrance easily?
Is it too straight of a line leading in- you can add foliage to soften.
The doors should open inward.
There should be something to define and support the guests arriving, but not blocking the entry.
Remember- the chi needs to be able to enter (inhale) easily and then leave (exhale) through a different door. The windows represent the eyes of the house and expel used chi. They should be clean and in good repair.
Center of the House- This is where the most important/used room of the house should be located. In past times, it has always been the kitchen or hearth. Today it is often the room where the television is located or the Great Room- where you gather the most. If another room is in the center, such as the bedroom or kitchen, it is said your life may become more focused on these areas. If the bathroom or laundry room are in the center, money and resources may go down the sewer lines. You can counteract this by using mirrors inside these rooms or hang a mirror so that it faces the “offending” room and reflects another room in the house. Things to consider:
If your television is in this room, don’t place it so that you watch it with your back to the door.
Avoid overpowering furniture that takes up too much space.
Arrange the furniture for coziness, conversation and comfort, making sure there is “breathing room” for the chi to flow.
Kitchen-this is where you prepare and often eat food and is symbolic of the internal fires that keep the spirit going. In Feng Shui, cooking is synonymous with money. This is also the room where chi is channeled into the body. Things to consider:
If the cook cannot see the entry into the kitchen, place mirrors so that one can see while cooking.
Hang mirrors, shiny pots, or reflective surfaces behind burners to double their number and double your cash flow.
Create a separation between the sink (water) and stove (fire)
If the kitchen faces the living room or bathroom, keep the doors closed or use screens or plants to separate.
Make sure all appliances work; if not, discard them.
Keep the refrigerator clean and free from old items.
Eliminate any drips, so that your resources don’t “drip away.”
Don’t let garbage pile up or all kinds of “psychic” garbage will accumulate.
Dining- This is an important room, if you use it for dining. chi should not be allowed to stagnate here; it’s best to have two ways for the chi to enter and exit, preferably not opposite each other or it will feel like a hallway. Things to consider:
A round or oval table is best; more harmonious than a square or rectangle.
Three is the minimum number of chairs to be placed around a table.
If you live alone, change places every night so that all chairs are used periodically.
Bedroom- Ideally, the master bedroom should be as far as possible from the entry and from the main street, for a more peaceful life. If this is not possible you can arrange the furniture and plants so that they are between the bed and the main street. (There’s always remedies with Feng Shui!) Things to consider:
1) A new relationship , new job or new life deserves a new bed or at least new linens.
2) Avoid clutter or inappropriate furniture in the bedroom
3) Create a cushion for the chi by elevating the bed at least 5 inches, but not more than three feet. Let the chi circulate above and below on three sides.
4) Place the bed against a solid wall, not a window or glass wall.
5) Place the bed in the farthest corner from the entry, with the best view of the entire room, preferable on a north/south or east/west axis.
6) To bring more love and compassion to your relationship, hang a round mirror in the bedroom.
Bathroom- The purpose of this room is to cleanse the body externally and internally so the chi should move through quickly and not be allowed to get stale.
A window is good for ventilation.
Avoid elaborate, ornate décor as this tends to hold the chi in, according to Feng Shui experts.
Make sure there are no leaks or drips in the faucets as it is thought to cause resources to suffer.
Discard old medicines, cosmetics, etc. Keep supplies neat and orderly.
As you finish your own home walkthrough, do you have any ideas for some simple changes you might consider making? I’m definitely going to move our bed so that it is against a solid wall. Then, I’m going to think about tackling the bathroom cabinets. That will come later because by this time I have exited, like the chi, and am back in my garden again enjoying the summer days!
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By Jeanne Brovelli, Interior Re-designer
La Casa Bella Fine Furnishings
Where do you like to go to relax and enjoy yourself? Do you prefer the beach, or a hike in the mountains, or trip to the desert? How about your own back yard? By applying some of the basic principles of Feng Shui (pronounced fung-shway) to your outdoor space, you can create a satisfying personal garden oasis that will nurture you, right outside your back door.
There has been much talk about Feng Shui recently, but what exactly is it? While the art of Feng Shui is quite complex (and I don’t consider myself to be any kind of an expert on it), I have been intrigued by the elements of Feng Shui for a while and I would like to share some very basic elements that you can apply to your own gardening experience. In a nutshell, Feng Shui, which literally translates into “wind and water”, is the ancient Chinese practice which considers the environment to be a metaphor for everything that occurs in your life. It is based on the idea that energy or chi (pronounced chee) in every space has its own personality. When the space you live in is arranged in harmony with nature, life can be very good. Well, I don’t know about you, but this idea appeals to me very much! The first basic principle to understand about Feng Shui is that it is not a religion, nor does it require the belief in any god; it is simply the art of perfect placement to maximize good energy. In order to get the maximum peace and harmony into your garden, it is important to balance the energy and correctly place all of the elements that will be in the garden.
Alright then, lets look at wind and water. Wind will always be in your garden. Wind travels on its own accord and there isn’t too much you can use to harness it. But there are a few things you can use to enhance your appreciation of it. Some options are small windmills, wind chimes, trees, or any object designed to be animated by wind. Wind chimes are a wonderful addition to any garden, as their gentle sound creates healing vibrations in the air.
 Water in your garden can take many forms. You can have a waterfall, creek, pond, or even just a running fountain or two. At the very simplest level, you can incorporate a bird bath. If you live in a rainy area, you may want to consider the many options you have available for man-made fountains or a man made pond or creek.
Aside from the two most important elements of wind and water, there are nine life–activity elements or “bagua” (pronounced bah-gwa) for a perfect feng shui garden. These are based on an eight-sided figure, each of the eight sides symbolizing one activity in life. Each activity is connected to one of the eight directions. There is much more information that one can glean about this feng shui concept, if you want to explore more for yourself. These areas are: wealth, fame, partnership, family, energy, children, friends, career, and knowledge. Each one is represented or amplified by its own elements and symbols.
There are also five natural elements of feng shui. These are WOOD, the element of spring, FIRE, the element of summer, EARTH, the element of Indian summer, METAL, the element of fall, and WATER, the element of winter. There are colors and shapes associated with each of these elements. The perfect environment, whether indoors or out, contains all five elements working together to create balance and harmony.
A good place to start your Feng Shui-inspired garden is to clear away any clutter and or dead plants in the garden. These are interfering with the positive energy flow. Then, take a look at the flow of the garden. Do you have a dead-end space? Create a destination with it or have it be incorporated into the overall garden flow. Are your pathways straight in a line? Chi flows too fast along straight lines and we then cannot benefit from it, so avoid them and create curved, more organic shapes with your pathways.
Other negative aspects or “bad chi” to be aware of are electrical lines, large buildings, hospitals or cemeteries nearby. To counteract these sources try using wind chimes, upward-facing lights, gazing balls, or statues in the garden. So no matter what the “bad chi” energy situation is, you can always add some “good chi” to counteract it.
Color is one of the easiest ways to shift the energy in your space with feng shui. You can create garden areas that have particular energy focuses using plants, flowers and garden accents, depending on what your particular focus will be.
The WEALTH GUA is an area that many people are interested in. This area doesn’t just have to do with how much money you make, however, but how you perceive abundance in your life and making wise choices with your resources. I can certainly use some help with this area! The element here is soft wood and the colors are primarily purple and red. To accent with soft wood, you can add a wood bench or use a pine tree in your landscaping theme. Some flowers to consider for this area are morning glories, dianthus, lavender, or any other flowers with red and purple colors.
The FRIENDSHIP GUA is normally situated in the front right area, the first to be noticed and this area is about increasing synchronicity with others. The colors are silver and gray and the element is metal. One way to add metal is through a metal bench or chairs. A few plants to consider are hosta, baby’s breath, and lambs ear.
The WISDOM GUA can often be a mediation site. The knowledge sought in life may change considerably from time to time, so it’s important to design the wisdom gua in a way that will amplify any form of knowledge. The color is blue. You can incorporate several shades. The element is earth and some flowers to consider here are hyacinths, lobelias and irises. The idea for this garden site is to keep things simple, yet pleasing.
The LOVE GUA is about either supporting or developing happy and healthy relationships with one person. Now we’re talking! The colors are the Valentine colors of pink, with accents of white and red. The elements are earth for wisdom and fire for passion. Some flowers to think about here are sweet peas, roses, and hydrangeas.
The FAME GUA is about promoting respect and building courage to do the right things in life. The color is red, with rich green to amplify the red to its fullest. Some flowers to consider are geraniums or red daylilies. The elements are hard wood and fire. You might want to add a hardwood bench or statue and a fire pit or torches in this area.
The final area is the CHILDREN/CREATIVITY GUA. The connection here is that the ideas of children and creativity go hand in hand. So the energy is about promoting creative thoughts and solutions, solving problems with children or entering into the childbearing phase of life. The color is pure and innocent white with pale pink accents. Flowers to consider can include lilies, carnations and roses. The elements are metal and wind. This is a great area in which to incorporate wind chimes. Think of this area as your most unique and whimsical garden area and develop it accordingly.
This is just a sampling of using Feng Shui in the garden. I have to confess here that I am probably not going to become a strict, Feng Shui gardener anytime in the near future. I am enjoying learning some new information, however, that is helping me to plan my garden spaces in more thoughtful and artful ways. And if consciously creating a love, friendship or wealth garden gua area helps me in these areas of my life, then all the better! One thing that I know with absolute certainty is that gardening and spending time in my garden is good for me and good for the soul. New information in this area is always welcome to me. I hope it is to you as well. By applying some of the basic Feng Shui principles, we can create more harmonious outdoor spaces that truly nourish us. Tune in next month when we look at bringing basic Feng Shui principles indoors!
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