On the grapevine (June 20)

Tip of the week

Remove faded rose blooms by cutting stems back to just above a lower leaf. This will improve the look of the plant and promote vigorous reblooming in a few weeks. Remove any suckering growth and leaves that are showing early signs of black spot disease. Wear thick work gloves and a long-sleeved shirt against the thorns.

Washington Post

Termite inspections

How often should a termite inspection be done?

According to Angie Hicks of Angie’s List, ideally an inspection should be done once a year, particularly if you observe termite activity.

Signs of activity can include swarming, as well as:

▪ Mud tubes, which the light-averse insects build to move from place to place in or around your home.

▪ Sagging floors and ceilings, which could indicate termites eating away at wood.

▪ Termite excrement, which looks like wood pellets or coffee grounds.

▪  Discarded wings, from termites chewing off or dropping wings after they establish a new colony.

Tribune News Service

In bloom at Botanica

Double Scoop Orange Coneflower, Echinacea “Balscoberr,” located in the Cissy Wise Wildflower Meadow at Botanica, 701 Amidon.

This story was originally published June 19, 2015 at 3:07 PM with the headline "On the grapevine (June 20)."