A bitter dill to swallow

QUESTION: As gardening season arrives, I am thinking about planting cucumbers. The problem is that garden cucumbers always taste bitter. Do you have any solutions to get rid of the bitter flavour? — Pearl Answer: This old trick works on bitter garden . . .

Posted: 2017-07-08

Keep your sheetslooking sweet

Properly caring for fine linens will extend their age

If you’ve ever been fortunate enough to sleep in a four-star-hotel bed, you know there is nothing like the crisp, clean feel of fine white sheets. I cherished my first set, a wedding present, and was dismayed when, over time, . . .

Posted: 2018-09-22

Condo reno takes it from dated to keeper

'We really love it. I think we're going to stay in this place for a while.'

When Bob Friesen and Marnie Strath began searching for a condo they could renovate and tailor to their exact tastes and needs, the first time they toured the Wellington Crescent-area penthouse suite they would ultimately purchase, they weren’t exactly impressed. "When . . .

Posted: 2018-06-16

What's the differencebetween olive oils?

QUESTION: I noticed a number of different uses for olive oil on your website. Which is the best olive oil to buy? What is the difference between virgin, extra-virgin oil, etc.?— JoshuaAnswer: Extra-virgin olive oil (the best of the best) . . .

Posted: 2016-12-31

Why replace?

For easy update, just give space a new ‘face’

When planning a bathroom upgrade, it is sometimes easiest (in theory) to gut the space completely and remodel the entire room. However, this is often cost-prohibitive. When faced with budgetary concerns for a bathroom reno, my attention always shifts to . . .

Posted: 2025-03-08

Stairway to HAVEN

Ingenuity needed to install flooring on steps

Sometimes the installation of new flooring “throughout the main floor” involves a few caveats. In this instance, the introduction of a vinyl plank with underpad would continue up the stairs to the second floor, as well as the second-floor . . .

Posted: 2023-06-17

SOLUTIONS: Save water, shower with a plant

QUESTION: I am a fan of yours and read your column weekly. It is wonderful that you can recommend so many solutions that involve products that most of us have in our kitchens. I live in a highrise condominium and . . .

Posted: 2011-01-08

Spring into action: Perfect season to try new varieties of plants in your garden

What starts in the flower bed doesn't necessarily always stay in the flower bed. The very nature of sharing space means plants must be compatible to a large degree and show some respect for boundaries as well. There are expectations . . .

Posted: 2015-02-14

ASK THE INSPECTOR: Chimney excavation likely needed to prevent seepage

QUESTION: My neighbour and I have the same problem. Both houses were built in 1957 and they have, what I think, is a cleanout hole for the chimney. At this time of year, and when there is a heavy . . .

Posted: 2014-05-10

CONNIE OLIVER: Bamboo offers variety of 'green' decor uses

Bamboo has become a popular component in many home-decor products. Because of its sustainability, it is a great substitute for items formerly made from less-renewable resources like hardwood. Bamboo is a grass that renews itself within a five- to seven-year span, . . .

Posted: 2010-06-12