Fast Fixes for July

Timely fast fixes, including trimming evergreens, storm-safety planning, and more

By Megan Baker

Trim Evergreen Trees

If they need shaping, give juniper and pine trees a light trim now, after they've established their new spring growth.

Know Your Storm Plan

Confirm the location of your gas and water shutoff valves and learn how to turn off the electricity, in case of severe summer weather.

Clean Bathroom Fans

Give yours a refresher by removing the cover and wiping it and the blades with a damp cloth. Be sure to disconnect the power at the circuit breaker first.

Test Garage Doors

To keep kids safe, check the auto-reverse feature by placing a block of wood in each door's path; if it doesn't bounce back after hitting the wood, call a pro.

Weed Smarter

Hand-pulling is easier after a summer rain, thanks to softened soil. For dry weeding, use a hoe to cut just below the soil line.

Tackle Sidewalk Mildew

Concrete looking grimy? Spray with outdoor mildew remover before scrubbing away. Hose the area generously before and after to prevent damage to surrounding plants.

Fill in the Garden

Bare spots in your beds? Add groupings of container plants to fill them out. Since potted plants dry out faster than those in the ground, add water-retaining crystals to the potting mix to keep the soil moist.