H A CAPE GAZETTE PUBLICATION OME+GARDEN ➜ Current Pool Trends ➜ Spring Planting Guide ➜ Home Savings Tips ➜ Lewes in Bloom HOME, STYLE, SAVINGS 2024 EDITION
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4 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H A CAPE GAZETTE PUBLICATION OME+GARD S P R I N G 2 0 2 4 EN ON THE COVER Stunning pool design by Ashton Pools overlooking Rehoboth Bay. PHOTO BY MEG SHUPE PUBLISHER Chris Rausch PRODUCTION MANAGER Tara Marks DESIGN Abby Workman ADVERTISING Kathy McGinty Lauren Zaniewski COPY EDITOR Veronica Geyer PRODUCTION Mallery Galaska Teresa Rodriguez Kristin Sinnott Elizabeth Tedley FOR MORE INFORMATION including subscriptions and advertising, visit CapeGazette.com RON MACARTHUR PHOTO
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽5 What's the secret to designing the perfect home for you? YOU! Dare to dream up your perfect kitchen in one of our most popular floor plans, e Whimbrel. Make it a reality at Welches Pond, Schell Brothers thoughtfully planned community surrounding a beautiful natural pond and 31 acres of protected wetlands. Welches Pond is minutes from downtown Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. When complete, this community will feature amenity areas not typically found in a community of this size including a multi-sport court, hammock oasis, pavilion on Love Creek, and a clubhouse. 2022 Schell Brothers LLC. All Rights Reserved. All information and pricing is subject to change without notice. Scan the QR code for more information or to schedule an appointment First Floor Second Floor
6 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 Contents Lewes in Bloom Spring Events Home improvement projects Is your HVAC ready? Planting for your zone Spring pruning tips Backyard oasis Power Washing 101 Saving Earth’s pollinators 10 18 22 26 32 36 42 48 50 56 62 66 72 74 80 88 Spring energy savings Integrate smart technology Planting Calender Community photos Building a home gym Custom or production home Select your perfect flooring Building for sustainability H+G FREE YARD OF MULCH with purchase of 5 yds or more - Large Selection - With coupon. FREE DELIVERY with purchase of $350 - Must be of same item - With coupon. Call for delivery info. Top Soil • Sand & Stone Natural Mulch Decorative • Stone We offer Pickup, Delivery & Installation on All Products! Natural Mulch Brown Mulch Black Mulch 3/8" Pea Gravel 3/4" River Jack 3/4" Blue 302-945-8900 | backbaymulch.com 24808 John J. Williams Highway, Millsboro, DE 19966 (Intersection of Rt. 24 & Rt. 5)
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽7 WE GO AROUND THEM! At The Closet Works, we don’t cut corners like our competition, • Custom Closets • Laundry Rooms • Pantries • And More... (302) 945-5354 www.theclosetworks.net THE CLOSET WORKS CURVE APPEAL! Visit The Closet Works DE/MD on to see our “Showclosets” WE WILL BEAT ANY COMPETITOR’S PRICE, AND WE DON’T TAKE DEPOSITS! CALL TODAY TO GET A FREE IN-HOUSE ESTIMATE WE ARE LOCAL! with over 30 years experience in the organization business. The only closet company on Delmarva offering the curved hanging system. 10% off plus up to $ 100 in FREE Accessories
8 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Fresh Spring Recipe: Strawberry Spinach Salad with Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients: 6 cups baby spinach leaves, washed and dried 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese 1/4 cup roughly chopped walnuts 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced For the Balsamic Vinaigrette: 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon honey 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste Instructions: Prepare the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the baby spinach leaves, sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, walnuts, and sliced red onion. Make the Balsamic Vinaigrette: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the balsamic vinaigrette over the salad, starting with a small amount and adding more as desired. Toss the salad gently to coat evenly with the dressing. Serve: Transfer the salad to serving plates or a large platter. Garnish with additional sliced strawberries, crumbled feta cheese, and toasted almonds if desired. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful Salad as a delightful addition to your spring menu! CONGRATULATIONS 2023 AWARD WINNER Congratulations to David T. King for being named for the Third Time to the prestigious Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Realty Leading Edge Society Award for 2023. Call David direct - (302) 233-5099 Office - (302) 227-6101 Email - [email protected] David T. King, Realtor Rehoboth Beach, DE o
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽9 PAUL TOWNSEND TEAM Paul & Darlene Townsend, REALTORS ® SPECIALIZING IN SUSSEX COUNTY REAL ESTATE, DE · paultownsendteam.com ©2024 Paul Townsend Team All information is deemed reliable but not guaranteed. Paul Townsend Team is not responsible for incorrect information obtained from outside sources. Every effort is made to verify accuracy, however Paul Townsend Team has no control over matters of Zoning, Surveys, Utilities or Taxes. Buyers will have to contact the necessary Public Authorities to determine actual costs and exact locations etc. Paul Townsend Team believes all information to be correct but assumes no legal responsibility for accuracy. Welcome Spring & Welcome Home! We can help you plant new roots! Darlene Steele Townsend Realtor® 302-645-2207 (office) George Merrick Realtor® 302-462-7288 (cell) Paul Townsend Associate Broker® Realtor® 302-236-3212 (cell) Katie Green Realtor® 302-236-1661 (cell) 1240 Kings Hwy, Lewes, DE • jacklingo.com • 302-645-2207 (Office) Nate Bradshaw Realtor® 302-550-6296 (cell)
10 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G LEWES IN BLOOM Spring Events ✽ March 29-30: Lewes in Bloom Tulip Sale (9 am to 3 pm each day) Who is ready for spring this year? Not only will you be able to enjoy the tulips blooming around town, you can even bring some home! Lewes in Bloom will hold their annual tulip sale Friday and Saturday, March 29-30, from 9 am to 3 pm each day, or until they are sold out. The sale will be held at Bank Street Plaza on Second Street in Lewes. In addition to tulips, there will be hyacinths, lilies, pansies, dianthus, Rieger begonias, hydrangeas, and azaleas. Lewes in Bloom merchandise will also be available. Come early for the best selection. ✽ May 4th: May Day Celebration Lewes in Bloom (LIB) invites Lewes residents and business owners once again to spread the joy of fresh, spring flowers on its fourth annual May Day Celebration on Saturday, May 4th. LIB will continue the tradition of friendly competition - with the judging of May baskets or bouquets on the doors, doorknobs, porches, or steps of residents and businesses in the 19958 zip code. May Day committee judges will award 1st and 2nd prize ribbons in residential and business categories. All entries from March 29-30: Lewes in Bloom Tulip Sale (9 am to 3 pm each day) May 4th: May Day Celebration May 25th: Lewes in Bloom Garden Market (9 am to 3 pm) RON MACARTHUR PHOTO Continued on pg 12
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽11 16759 Coastal Highway, Lewes, DE | 302-645-1207 | 888-858-4255 WWW.LIGHTHOUSEOFLEWES.COM Please call 302-645-1207 for more information YOUR favorite LIGHTING PEOPLE
12 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G children under 14 will receive a ribbon. This spring is the first time that a $250 CASH GRAND PRIZE will be awarded to either a residential or business winner. The Grand Prize is being generously donated by Active Adults Realty in Lewes. May Day floral displays in the past have been as simple as tying a daffodil with a ribbon to a doorknob! May Day baskets often include original homemade baskets with flowers from participants’ gardens or lovely creations from our local florists. Lewes in Bloom welcomes May Day as another opportunity for Lewes to be defined by its beautiful flowers. Registration for participation in the May Day Celebration starts March 30th. Go to https://lewesinbloom.org/may-day/. ✽ May 25th: Lewes in Bloom Garden Market (9 am to 3 pm) Lewes in Bloom will hold its annual Garden Market plant sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, May 25, at its warehouse on Schley Avenue in Lewes, right by the Lewes water tower. The rain date is May 26. This year will feature potted perennials from members’ gardens, as well as a selection of annuals such as, hanging baskets, containers, unique gift items and hand painted clay pots. In addition to Lewes in Bloom merchandise, a small Flea Market will feature gently used garden accessories. Free parking is available. For more information, go to lewesinbloom.org and Facebook. CALL FOR TREE CARE MADE EASY & AFFORDABLE LICENSED & INSURED • LTE#1763 LICENSED & INSURED • LTE#1763 302-567-2145 302-567-2145 25% off % off ANY TREE SERVICE* ANY TREE SERVICE* Tree Removal • Tree Pruning • Tree Trimming Tree Removal • Tree Pruning • Tree Trimming Stump Grinding • Crane Service Stump Grinding • Crane Service Storm Damage • Lot Clearing Storm Damage • Lot Clearing EXPERT TREE SERVICE EXPERT TREE SERVICE www.TreeScapesDE.com www.TreeScapesDE.com CALL FOR A FREE PROPERTY EVALUATION BEFORE THE SPRING RUSH CALL FOR A FREE PROPERTY EVALUATION BEFORE THE SPRING RUSH *Stump Grinding Excluded
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽13 EXCITING UPDATES: Stay tuned for new inventory arrivals weekly throughout the Spring season! Follow us on Facebook & join our email list for updates on classes & events this season. Discover everything you need for your gardening endeavors at Bella Terra Garden Center. From tools to plants, we have it all! 13482 Spicer Road, Ellendale, DE n BELLATERRADE.COM Jason “Jay” Millman | Garden Center General Manager n 302 422 9000 Hours: Mon-Sat: 8am-5pm n Sunday Hours: 9am-3pm EST 2003 Join our Garden Club & unlock additional savings! Inquire for more details. Find all of your GARDENING NEEDS Year Round! MEMBERS E X C L U S I V E BENEFITS FOR: Garden Club DELAWARE’S PREMIER LANDSCAPING & GARDEN CENTER
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16 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Did you know? Upgrading your kitchen can significantly increase your home’s resale value. The National Association of Realtors reports that a minor kitchen remodel, which includes updating cabinet hardware, countertops, and appliances, can yield an average return on investment of 72.2%. Investing in a modern and functional kitchen not only improves daily living but also boosts buyer interest when it’s time to sell. Check us out on FACEBOOK! P.O. Box 35 Bridgeville, DE 19933 Office: 302-612-0056 • Monday - Friday 8AM - 4:30PM [email protected] • Licensed & Insured We can help make your home a showplace... Over 20 years experience • Paver Patios & Walkways • Paver Clean & Seal • Grill Enclosures & Outdoor Kitchens • Firepits & Fireplaces • Retaining & Seating Walls • Vinyl Garbage Enclosure & Showers • Mowing - Trimming - Yard Clean Up • Stone - Mulch - Sod - Plants - Trees • Full Landscaping Packages • Pergolas • Aeration & Over-seeding • New Irrigation Systems & Open/Close • French Drains - Dry Wells • Contract/Community Landscaping Landscaping and Hardscaping LLC 5% Percent discount for Senior and Military!
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽17 (302) 566-4734 Mosquito Shield of Southern Delaware 116 Front St, Box 752, Lewes, DE moshield.com/southern-delaware THEY’RE COMING!
18 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G BATHROOM REMODEL: 64.8% AVERAGE ROI Renovate outdated bathrooms with new fixtures, tiles, vanities, and lighting for a fresh and inviting look. DECK ADDITION: 72.9% AVERAGE ROI Expand outdoor living space with a wood or composite deck, perfect for entertaining and relaxing. WINDOW REPLACEMENT: 73%-77% AVERAGE ROI Upgrade to energy-efficient windows to improve insulation, reduce energy costs, and enhance aesthetics. ➡ TOP HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS FOR: INCREASED RESALE VALUE Home improvement projects not only enhance your living space but also increase the resale value of your property. Discover the top projects that offer the best return on investment (ROI) according to industry experts. Investing in these top home improvement projects can significantly increase your home’s resale value while enhancing your enjoyment of your living space. KITCHEN REMODEL: 72.2% AVERAGE ROI Upgrade countertops, cabinets, appliances, and fixtures to create a modern and functional kitchen that appeals to buyers. LANDSCAPING UPGRADE: 5%-11% AVERAGE ROI Enhance curb appeal with well-maintained landscaping, including lush greenery, colorful flowers, and manicured lawns. EXTERIOR PAINT: 60%-100% AVERAGE ROI Boost curb appeal by refreshing the exterior paint, choosing modern colors that complement your home’s architecture.
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽19 Lightship Cove is nestled amid permanently protected farmland in Milton, close to beautiful coastal Delaware beaches but tucked away where quiet nature surrounds you. Schedule an appointment with our sales team today to start building your new life in a Schell Brothers home. © 2023 Schell Brothers LLC. All Rights Reserved. All information and pricing is subject to change without notice. fifffflffiflffiff fifffflffi PRICING NOW AVAILABLE! haven flffffffi flff
20 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Did you know? Companion planting can help naturally repel pests and improve crop yields in your garden. For example, planting marigolds alongside tomatoes can deter nematodes, while growing basil near tomatoes can enhance their flavor and repel pests like aphids and whiteflies. By strategically pairing compatible plants, you can create a harmonious and mutually beneficial ecosystem in your garden, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and promoting overall plant health.
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽21 Stop cleaning gutters. Call for Free Estimate 1-800-GUTTER-1 | 302-424-1931 www.thegutterguys.com 5’, 6’ & 7’ Seamless Gutters Gutter Cleaning • Fascia • Soffit • Repairs Ask about our GutterGard ™! Since only a handful of debris can clog your rain gutters & leave your home unprotected against the damaging effects of water, it is vital that your gutters remain free flowing year round. You can STOP cleaning your gutters when the Gutter Guys install their GutterGard™ gutter protection system. Fully Insured & Satisfaction Guaranteed. The Gutter Guys have been in business since 1988 with over 500,000 happy customers! 10% OFF GutterGard™ MUST SHOW COUPON AT THE TIME OF ESTIMATE. Min. 100 Linear ft. Not to be combined with any other offer. Expires 6-1-24 302-424-1931 thegutterguys.com
22 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Is Your HVAC Ready? Your air conditioning unit has been sitting unused for months, while winter held sway. Spring’s return is the perfect time to pop the hood and make sure your HVAC is ready to roll for summer. Checks will need to be made inside and out. You don’t want to find out that it’s not working when you need air conditioning the most. Continued on pg 24 Ready to be a LOCAL? We make it easy. Thinking of Relocating? Think Delaware! • Sign-up For Our FREE Locals Now! Newsletter • Call (302) 424-1890 • Email [email protected] • Visit www.ActiveAdultsDelaware.com for a comprehensive review of local neighborhoods and informative blogs! Get Started Today Buying or Selling • New Construction or Quality Pre-owned Homes • We Have Answers! Active Adults Realty®| Office: (302) 424-1890 | 2 Locations: 1504 Savannah Road & 104 2nd St. Lewes, DE
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽23 701 Federal Street, Milton, Delaware 302.684.0112 | mytrentonblock.com PAVERS | HARDSCAPE & MASONRY SUPPLIES STONE VENEER | NATURAL STONE | LANDSCAPE LIGHTING DRAINAGE | IRRIGATION | ACCESSORIES in Milton, Delaware
24 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G SPRING CHECKLIST Check outdoor components, cleaning out any branches and leaves that have accumulated over the winter period. Sometimes small creatures may have even made a home inside the unit and they’ll need to be removed. Be careful when clearing the area so not to break or bend critical metal pieces. Corrosion is also a concern, particularly with older units or with homes in coastal or very humid areas. Inside, make sure all of your registers are opened and unobstructed. Examine the inside unit and duct work, keeping a sharp eye out for cracks or leaks. If you find anything concerning, call an HVAC technician to have a look before re-engaging the system. TURNING IT ON After your unit has passed all its checks, turn down the thermostat and make sure air is arriving through every air duct and at the set temperature. If your HVAC struggles to reach the desired setting, it’s time to call an expert. The same is true for anyone who doesn’t feel confident in diagnosing some or all of these pre-summer diagnostic issues. Some companies offer contract service plans, making the whole process less stressful. They can also be more cost-effective, since potential problems will be identified before they become a bigger concern. DUCT SYSTEM Consider having your air ducts cleaned by a professional. Ducts that are free of dust and debris will move cool air around the house more freely, without spreading allergy-causing particulates like dust, mold, dander or fungi. Changing your air filters every month will also help achieve cleaner air while saving money. Dirty filters cause the system to become overworked, shortening your system’s lifespan or leading to higher utility bills. Check your owner’s manual or the instructions on the filter to find out more. 25268 Governors Stockley Road • Georgetown, DE 19947 302.856.3579 www.davidabanks.com
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽25 (302) 501-5222 CONCRETE RESURFACING • CONCRETE RESTORATION • CONCRETE SEALING Mention this ad and receive a FREE concrete surface evaluation VISIT NEWCRETEFINISH.COM NOW! Serving Sussex, Kent and New Castle Counties Repair cracks, ✓ breaks & chips Mitigate ✓ trip hazards Protect & beautify ✓ for years to come YES, IT’S CEMENT! WE DO SO MUCH MORE THAN GARAGE FLOORS! WHICH WOULD YOU PREFER? HICH WOULD YOU PREFER? CONCRETE IS OUR CANVAS BEFORE AFTER BEFORE AFTER BEFORE AFTER
26 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Having trouble getting certain things to grow? According to the USDA you might be planting the wrong things for your home’s growing zone. These zones detail the minimum temperatures for growing plants by area. Find the zone for your area, then stick to plants that are best suited for those temps. Your lawn or garden will rebound in no time. ABOUT THE ZONES This document is officially known as the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map, and it’s meant to set the standard for gardeners to determine which plants thrive by location. There are 11 growing zones in the U.S., with eight located in the lower 48 states. Temperature minimums begin all the way down to -60 to -55 degrees, in Zone 1a. The far warmer Zone 13b, is on the other end of the spectrum with temps in the 65-to-70-degree range. These numbers represent the average coldest temperatures each year, and not the alltime lowest. Be prepared for early spring freezes where appropriate. FIND YOUR ZONE Your growing zone can be found by using the USDA’s helpful interactive map at planthardiness.ars.usda.gov. Simply enter your ZIP code to learn more. Static images are also available for those without faster broadband internet access. You can also get more details about zones at your nearest agricultural extension offices and garden centers. Just remember Planting for Your Zone that the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map can’t account for hyper-local conditions, including moisture, soil, humidity, heat or other weather conditions that might impact how plants grow at any specific point in time. NEW UPDATES The USDA map is constantly updated with temperature data, and other information dating back to 1976. The high-resolution interactive map allows page views down to the street level in your community. Zones 12 and 13 have been added more recently to account for new annual extreme minimums. Some zones, like those in Puerto Rico and Hawaii, obviously never freeze but this information nevertheless helps gardeners to plant smarter in tropical and subtropical conditions. Note that zones might change around a larger city since they tend to capture more heat than breezy areas with hills and valleys.
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽27 From hospitals to homes and everything in between, Nickle keeps the power on. INDUSTRIAL | COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL WIRING AND INSTALLATIONS SERVICE CALLS EMERGENCY GENERATORS NICKLEELECTRICAL.COM NEWARK: 302-453-4000 GEORGETOWN: 302-856-1006 POWERING WHAT’S IMPORTANT.
28 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Having a deck can positively impact your mental well-being? Sunlight exposure on your deck stimulates the production of vitamin D, a key factor in mood elevation and overall mental health. Beyond this, the open-air setting of a deck creates a therapeutic escape, offering a peaceful retreat that enhances your home and contributes to a sense of happiness and relaxation. So, when you invest in a deck, you’re not just enhancing your property; you’re also investing in your well-being. Did you know? Wish Granted. Finally, a landscaping service that’s affordable, reliable, & hassle free. Full Lawn Care Packages Irrigation Systems Seasonal Cleanup Outdoor Lighting 302-856-6690 greentoplawns.com Drainage We don’t leave until everything is perfect.
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽29 Sunrooms • Three & Four Season Enclosures • Operable Pergolas Retractable Awnings • Decks • Solar Shades • & More! 16083 New Road, Lewes, DE 302.644.6540 Showroom Hours: M-F 8A-4:30P PATIOSYSTEMS.COM INTEGRITY: THE PILLAR OF OUR CRAFT INTEGRITY: THE PILLAR OF OUR CRAFT
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32 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Spring Pruning Tips With winter receding, make smart cuts now to encourage growth. Many perennials have foliage that provides protection during the winter, but pruning is still an essential part of their growth process. Likewise, many plants actually make stronger returns if longer branches are trimmed. Here’s how to handle this essential part of spring gardening. Continued on pg 34 26th Annual! Delaware Resorts 2024 HOME EXPO April 6th & 7th • Cape Henlopen High School Presented by... FREE ADMISSION! GIFTS AND PRIZES! EVERYTHING FOR YOUR HOME & PROPERTY VISIT www.deexpos.com FOR MORE DETAILS → SUN April 7th SAT April 6th - 9 AM to 4 PM - 10 AM to 3 PM
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34 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G WHEN SHOULD I PRUNE? According to the Farmers Almanac the timing for pruning shrubs and trees mostly depends on when they bloom and whether those blooms are on new or old growth. Generally, plants which flower after midsummer each year should be pruned after they flower. A common worry is that over-pruning or pruning at the wrong time might kill a plant, but garden center experts say that it’s rarely fatal. Instead, you’ll simply have fewer blooms or less fruit. WHAT SHOULD I PRUNE? Fruit-bearing trees like apple, peach, plum and cherry should be pruned in early spring, as should vines like wisteria and trumpet vine. Shrubs that flower in the spring like rhododendrons and lilacs also need pruning as soon as their first blooms fade. This helps ensure a better bloom the following year. Black-eyed Susan, purple coneflower and globe thistle seed-heads provide a good food source for birds, so growers are encouraged to leave them until early spring. Mums, coral bells, hostas, turtleheads and delphiniums need their protective foliage through the winter; now is the time to cut them back. WHAT DO I USE? Pruning tools like shears and clippers must be kept sharp in order to function efficiently. Clean cuts heal quickly, eventually strengthening the plant. Botched cuts, on the other hand, actually weaken the plant while making it more susceptible to various diseases. Oil your tool’s moving parts before spring pruning to make sure everything works smoothly. HOW TO PRUNE Some plants require less aggressive pruning. Talk to representatives from your local extension service or gardening center to learn more about how much to prune a particular plant in your area. The Farmers Almanac is also a helpful guide. In general, focus on removing dying or dead branches, and sprouts that have emerged from the trunk. With trees and shrubs, remove all branches that are growing toward the center, downward or across other branches. Prune from the outside growth inward to get the most pleasing shape while promoting growth of stronger new branches. 302-539-1839 inlandbaysgardencenter.com [email protected] 38320 Muddy Neck Road Frankford DE (2 miles west of Bethany Beach) The Largest Collection of Native Plants on Delmarva
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽35 ARBOR-LYN IS MORE THAN JUST HOME. Locals who live and work in Rehoboth Beach sure know a good thing when they see it, which is why Ashlee and Andrew Martinelli, owner of Helios, a popular family-owned sunglass store, chose Arbor-Lyn. This community checked all the boxes for its' sought-after zip code, proximity to downtown Rehoboth, ample amenities, energy-ecient Schell homes and close-knit community feel. Building our home was a breeze. From start to finish, it was easy to see the level of care Schell has for each customer. They truly made our full-time transition to the area fun and enjoyable. Before we moved in, we met our future neighbors—who are now our good friends—at community happy hours, so that added to the excitement of our closing date. Arbor-Lyn is more than just a home for us. We are especially grateful for our community and the new friends we’ve made here. Scan the QR code to learn more about Arbor-Lyn © 2023 Schell Brothers LLC. All Rights Reserved. All information is subject to change without notice.
36 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Backyard Oasis: Exploring Contemporary Pool Trends, Safety Measures, and Family-Friendly Summer Escapes If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate family gift, look no further than your backyard. Adding a pool to your outdoor space isn’t just about creating a refreshing oasis; it’s about embracing a lifestyle that seamlessly blends leisure, entertainment, and wellness. SUMMER ENJOYMENT Transform your backyard into a yearround vacation destination without the need for lengthy travels and pricey accommodations. Imagine spending your summer in the comfort of your own home, relaxing by the pool, hosting barbecues, or simply enjoying a quick swim. Continued on pg 38 YOUR Neighborhood Garage Door Service Safety First • Curb Appeal Free Estimates Family Owned & Operated HenlopenOverheadDoor.com • 302-228-0561
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽37 How Does YOUR Garden Grow? Grizzly’s Landscape Supply & Services Less than 5 miles North of 5 Points on Rte. 1 in the southbound lane (302) 200-8733 grizzlycompost.com IT ALL STARTS IN THE SOIL SOIL AMENDMENTS • MULCH • COMPOST • TOPSOIL • PINE NEEDLES SOD • CLAM SHELLS • STONE • RAILROAD TIES • ORGANIC LEAF MULCH My professional consulting services come along with the materials you get from Grizzly’s. Call, email, or visit our website. - Dick Pack (Doc Grizzly) Owner, Grizzly’s Landscape Supply and Services [email protected]
38 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 Having a pool in your backyard isn’t just a luxury; it’s a great solution to encourage exercise and an active lifestyle, especially for children. Overcoming the challenge of getting kids to exercise becomes a breeze with a backyard pool, offering a fun and healthy alternative. Turn your home into the neighborhood’s go-to spot for socializing. From lively pool parties to friendly gatherings, it’s the perfect place for connecting and having a good time. DESIGN The beauty of a backyard pool lies in its adaptability to your preferences. Whether opting for a high-tech above-ground pool kit for a swift setup or investing in an intricate in-ground pool design, you have the flexibility to create a personal oasis. H+G POOL SAFTEY TIPS ➤ SUPERVISION VIGILANCE Always supervise children and non-swimmers by the pool. Designate a responsible adult as a water watcher. SECURE POOL ENCLOSURE Install a secure fence around the pool with a self-locking mechanism to restrict unauthorized access. EMERGENCY READINESS Keep rescue equipment readily available and learn essential CPR and basic water rescue techniques. Continued on pg 40 CALL: 302-947-1796 EMAIL: [email protected] Eastern Sussex’s OFFICE CLEANING PROS BENCHMARK CLEANING SERVICES
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽39 www.tilemarketofde.com LEWES • WILMINGTON • MIDDLETOWN OVER 2 Million Square Feet of Unique Tile & Stone IN STOCK ... IN DELAWARE! of Delaware ALSO...Custom Quartz, Granite & Marble Countertops
40 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Imagine a customized deck, an access walkway leading directly from your home, or, for the more adventurous, a gazebo with a hot tub for year-round relaxation. SAFETY Regardless of your pool choice, safety remains paramount, with an emphasis on staying updated with modern safety features. Keep abreast of zoning ordinances governing pool installations and locations, integrating smart pool safety systems and access control mechanisms. Ensure your pool area is enclosed by a secure fence, equipped with self-locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access. Prioritize safety to preserve your pool as a serene oasis rather than a potential hazard. Once these essential safety considerations are addressed, you can look forward to building your pool and creating a space for years of fun and adventure. Investing in a backyard pool offers a long-term, cost-effective solution for countless summers of enjoyment with your family. Your Local Supplier For Building Materials & Hardware 302-645-2233 - 18744 John J. Williams Hwy. Rehoboth • Hardware • Cabinets • Plywood • siding • windows • sHingles • deCking • tools • Paint • doors • lumber • treated lumber
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽41 302-684-4221 [email protected] cleandelaware.com Small enough to fit in your driveway but large enough to clean out your and your neighbor’s garage or basement! 20-yard Roll-Off Dumpsters (16ft x 8ft x 5ft) Easy Access Rear Panel Drop-off, Pick-up & Dump $495 *We Can Not Accept: Concrete, Yard Waste, Appliances or Tires* Check out our residential Spring roll-off dumpster services! It’s a Spring Fling!
42 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Power Washing 101 Build-up throughout the winter can leave our windows, doors and home exteriors covered in unsightly muck. Power washing can leave it all looking as good as new. But don’t stop there: This powerful tool is also great at bringing a host of other things to life in your home and garden, including driveways, grills, outdoor furniture, decks, fences and walkways. Just keep important safety guidelines in mind: HOW THEY WORK Power washers may be powered by electricity or gas. Gas-powered units are usually more powerful than the electric versions. They typically deliver up to 3,000 pounds of pressure per square inch, which may be too much for certain materials. That’s why it’s important to match the power of your equipment with the job: Vinyl siding can withstand that level of pressure, but aluminum, soft-grain woods and stucco are only rated to 1,500 PSI. PREPARING TO WORK Cover items like air conditioner compressors and light fixtures around the home’s exterior. Protect nearby plants, too. Note the location of outlets and windows, covering sockets with tape and then avoiding those areas. Put on safety gear before engaging the power washer, including work gloves and safety goggles. Pre-wash the exterior with a brush or spray in order to remove loose debris, dirt and mildew. Keep the wand at least six feet away from electric wiring, and stay away from cracks and holes in the exterior. GETTING UNDERWAY Mix water and detergent, following manufacturer directions, then attach the power washer to a garden hose. Next, attach the preferred wand or extension to the sprayer. Test the power washer from a distance of three feet back, making slight adjustments until you can clean without creating surface damage. Once you’ve completed the job, turn off the washer and disconnect it from your garden hose. Rinse off any excess soap before storing. RENTING OR BUYING? Power washing equipment can be rented through many home improvement and hardware stores. That’s a smart choice when doing annual cleaning of a home exterior, deck or driveway, since you’re saving the cost of buying an expensive piece of equipment that you won’t otherwise use. It may make sense to purchase if you have more regular jobs.
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44 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Did you know? The color you choose to paint your front door can have a significant impact on your home’s curb appeal and perceived value. According to a study by Zillow, homes with front doors painted in shades of navy blue to dark gray sold for an average of $1,514 more than homes with white doors. This simple yet effective home improvement project can enhance the overall aesthetic of your home and make a positive impression on potential buyers. See Videos & Pictures on our website porchprotection.com 9203 Brickyard Rd. ~ Seaford, DE 19973 Call today for your free estimate 302.629.4430 Enjoy your porch no matter what the weather! Porch Protection Systems A product of Penny Enterprises, Inc. ® Our porch enclosure system is custom fitted, simple to operate and a pleasure to use. The heavy duty clear vinyl provides a glass like view. The poly fabric trim comes in 20 colors to compliment your home. You and your family will enjoy the comfort of your porch for years to come no matter the weather. Enjoy your porch no matter the weather! Our porch enclosure system is custom fitted, simple to operate and a pleasure to use. The heavy duty clear vinyl provides a glass like view. The poly fabric trim comes in 20 colors to compliment your home. You and your family will enjoy the comfort of your porch for years to come no matter the weather. See Videos & Pictures on our website: porchprotection.com 9203 Brickyard Rd. Seaford, DE 19973 Call today for your free estimate 302.629.4430 Porch Protection Systems® A product of Print Shack, Inc.
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽45 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH H H H H H H H H AMERICAN VETERANS THRIFT STORE WE SUPPORT OUR HOMELESS VETERANS IN DELAWARE DONATIONS ALWAYS ACCEPTED We PICK UP Quality Used Furniture FREE! 10% OFF TOTAL PURCHASE if you bring in this ad. Expires 5-15-24. Shop • Donate Volunteer • Support 34396 Tenley Court, Lewes (just south of Wawa) 302-703-6406 Route 24 - Across from Delaware Eye Institute 302-200-7913 NOW WITH TWO LOCATIONS!
46 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 3681 S Little Creek Rd, Dover, DE 19901
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽47 We are a full service licensed Plumbing, Heating, AC and Electrical company that can service all your needs. We have 35 years of new construction business in the Rehoboth and Lewes area. We offer quality, value, and guarantee our work for 1 year. No job too big or too small for Messina to handle. Hope to see you soon. Emergency hours also available. • 302-674-5696 • www.CallMessina.com
48 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Saving Earth’s Pollinators Pollinators play a crucial role in bolstering nature and food production. We tend to think of bees as the only pollinators, and they are perhaps the most prominent single element in this important process. But butterflies, bats, birds, wasps and beetles also play a role. Unfortunately, some are under generational stress while others are actually in decline. We can make a difference by taking steps to save them. CHRIS FOSTER PHOTO It’s Spring! Get Gardening! Monday–Friday 8–4 Saturday 8–1 Closed Sunday Rt 5 • Harbeson, DE MULCH Brown |Black | Red Natural $20/yd DELIVERY $30/$40 • Palletized Stone • Loose Stone • Sand • Pine and Straw Bales • Firewood W N E S * Lawson’s Rt. 5 Rt. 9 Harbeson Light TOP SOIL Royal Farms
Spring Home & Garden 2024 ✽49 COLLAPSING COLONIES The USDA reports that more than 100 crops rely on pollinators, with an annual economic impact in the tens of billions of dollars. Issues even with one key pollinator can have catastrophic results. For instance, the Western honey bee has been stricken by colony collapse disorder. Worker bees are disappearing, leaving only the queen and a few others. The cause is likely environmental stressors, according to the USDA, including pollutants, pests, disease and nutritional deficits. Growers, conservationists and government officials leaped into action, and the bee population began to rebound. Still, there are many others who remain at risk. ‘BEE BETTER’ One of the easiest ways to support pollinators is at your local grocer, farmer’s market or shopping center. Look for products that have been certified through the Bee Better program funded through the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. Growers and manufacturers earn this certification by using pollinator-friendly practices. Buying things with the Bee Better logo helps support those who in turn support pollinators. IN THE GARDEN Try creating landscapes and gardens that feature native species, timing them to flower during different seasons in order to provide a steady source of food for pollinators. Clump flowers with different shapes and colors to attract them. Those who live in areas where monarch butterflies migrate can plant milkweed, which provides food for caterpillars. NESTING SITES Gardeners can also provide nesting sites to encourage these populations to grow. Many prefer specific plants for their young: For hummingbirds, it’s shrubs and trees. Monarchs like milkweed. Bees prefer to build nests in wood, in the ground or in dry plant stems. If you decide to encourage bees by building a ground-nesting site, make sure it’s facing south so the bees get the most sun and that it is well-drained. Hollow stumps make a great habitat; there are also artificial nesting sites available that add a nice touch to any garden. H+G Shop with Purpose 100% of the profits from the ReStore go to support Sussex County Habitat for Humanity’s mission 18501StamperDriveShop with Purpose 100% of the profits from the ReStore go to support Sussex County Habitat for Humanity’s mission 18501 Stamper Drive, Lewes, DE 19958 302-855-1156
50 ✽ Spring Home & Garden 2024 H+G Spring Energy Savings A changing season offers new opportunities to use less energy and lower costs. The first day of spring, can serve as an annual reminder to check the evaporator coil on your air-conditioning unit, as its cleanliness ensures optimum performance and the lowest monthly utility costs. Routine maintenance like replacing air filters can lower your average energy consumption by as much as 15%. Here’s a checklist of other things that can help you go green and save some green, courtesy of the U.S. Department of Energy: Continued on pg 52 Toro has a long history of serving the turf industry, and we’re one of the best-known, most trusted in the business. 25268 Governors Stockley Road • Georgetown, DE 19947 302.856.3579 • www.davidabanks.com Smart Features Proven Dependability