KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – SOME HELPFUL TIPS TO GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAY
KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – SOME HELPFUL TIPS TO GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAY
Lawn and Garden:
Even though we have had a lot of rain lately we need to make sure all our plants and lawn areas have sufficient water. I’ve noticed a few areas especially under trees that do not get enough water even in huge downpours. Make sure all areas are moist.
Walk on your lawn. Grassy areas should feel soft not hard like concrete. In the garden don’t just look at the soil surface dig down a little. If there is moisture an inch deep you’re O.K. Remember some vegetables need more water and fertilizer than others. Tomatoes need more and peppers and cukes need less. I personally have not fertilized my vegetables yet this year. Foliage and blossom production have been good with the great weather we’ve had in the Chicago area.
Remember we used the Miracle Grow so we shouldn’t need to fertilize for a couple of weeks.
Home:
If you are having people over to cook out for the Fourth make it easy on yourself. Grilling meats to BBQ steaks are the most easy. If your gang is too large to afford all steaks the old stand-by burgers and sausage are crowd favorites. If you are going to do Italian sausage I strongly suggest you find your local Italian deli to procure your links. The taste is so superior to store bought it isn’t funny. Also try new sausage flavors all major supermarkets have new fancy links to try.
Don’t forget to have plain dogs for the kids. If they’re anything like my grandchildren they only want familiar foods. For all the salads you make dry ingredients can be cooked and chilled even 2 days ahead of time (potatoes pasta eggs etc.) Chop celery and onion ahead. Mix together the day you serve. Lettuce greens can be washed and chopped the night before. Wrap loosely in paper towels and store in a plastic bag till ready to use.
Have a Wonderful and Safe Fourth of July! God Bless America and Keep Our Troops Safe!!!
KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO
