Hydrangea variety has a mind of its own

Flowering shrub worth the work it takes to maintain

By all accounts, the hydrangea is the No. 1 top-selling flowering shrub in North America. It’s certainly the most popular flowering shrub in my garden. Currently, I grow 24 different hydrangea varieties. Among local hydrangea enthusiasts, the Kanmara hydrangea created the . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Transform old cistern into a tornado shelter

Structure can double as a cool fort for kids to enjoy

Reading today’s column may just save your life! If it does, I will graciously not refuse your thanking me by e-transferring a goodly amount of cash to my email below. I promise to use it for charity. Cough... OK, seriously now. This . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Mirrors, mirrors on the wall

Typically a final pit stop to check your look before you run out the door, mirrors serve an important function in most homes. They can be simple and subdued, or artful, ornate statement pieces. We asked some experts for advice . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

All-green gardens offer a sense of Zen

All-green gardens are becoming popular again as the centrepieces of monochromatic landscaping. The designs are appealing and restive, driven as they are by massed ferns, moss, leaves, bark, berries, rock and foliage combinations. They serve some practical purposes, too. "Cool, mossy . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Electrify your garden with Calliope geraniums

The Calliope Large Orange Splash geranium is new this year and has been causing an assortment of "oohs and ahhs" at this year at trial gardens. It was particularly so at the Young’s Plant Farm Trials at Auburn, Ala., First . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Fixing foundation seepage no easy task

Question: I have a wood foundation with a brick floor that is not grouted; therefore, it is easily removed around the perimeter walls. We’ve had the house since 1998, and there has always been some seepage along the east and . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Shared wall in basement a real time saver

Kitchenette and bathroom can run on the same plumbing -- just don't forget the criss-cross

When a lower level consists of one big empty space with four concrete walls, and a basement renovation is imminent, it is very important to design an all-encompassing floor plan that best suits your every need. A rec room, an extra . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Living in luxury in Bridgwater Trails

Entry-level two-storey home delivers quality and functionality

When it comes to move-up homes, young families tend to be very specific about what they require. First, it must be affordable. Second, it must be livable. And finally, it has to has to have style. Above all, the home must . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Country estate in the middle of the city

Back in 1999, a couple had a clear vision for the type of home they wanted to build. First and foremost, it was to be a spacious home that was laid out in such a way that livability would be maximized. . . .

Posted: 2019-06-29

Proud and Free

Celebrating Canada Day in the heart of Winnipeg

[SPONSORED CONTENT]   This weekend, as you celebrate Canada's birthday, may you think fondly about the freedoms you especially enjoy. May you hop on a bike or train, in a car or a canoe and explore all things maple-infused, all things beautiful. Canada . . .

Posted: 2019-06-28