Coordinating successfully is easier than you think

Matching sets can be boring. Why let someone else determine which accent chair goes with your sofa or that table lamps have to match. Coordinating items rather than playing it safe with matching sets is a great way to break . . .

Posted: 2015-03-19

Comforting treat for winter-weary tootsies

QUESTION - The dry winter air has been hard on me this year. Can you recommend a household solution for cracked, dry heels? Bruno (Brandon).ANSWER - You may need to consult your physician if the skin is badly cracked. To . . .

Posted: 2015-03-19

Get growing

Annual shows offer inspiration for eager gardeners

We are all weather-watchers at this time of year. With April in sight, it could just be a matter of weeks before our window gazing is replaced by that first tentative walk through the garden to assess winter's aftermath.Will a . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14

Watchful eye necessary to prevent fire blight

This winter, I have received several calls and emails from property owners concerned about the deteriorating condition of their apple and crabapple trees.Last year, there was a sharp increase in cases of fire blight on apple and crabapple trees. Virtually . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14

Almost time to sow seeds

Growing your own vegetables means enjoying summer salads filled with the fruits of your labours.To help decode how you get there, here's a cheat sheet of when and how to start seeds for the most common edibles inside as bedding . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14

The secret to making perfect hard-boiled eggs

QUESTION: With Easter on the way, I need to know how to make great hard-boiled eggs. I tend to overcook them until they break.Miles, MacGregorANSWER: Place eggs in a pot and fill with enough cold water to cover the eggs. . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14

Viewing tips for the Spring Parade of Homes

The first week of the Spring Parade of Homes has concluded, and the fabulous weather has resulted in tremendous crowds visiting the new show homes. Last year, -45 C; this year, 5 C. Fantastic! Each year, we print a primer . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14

Grey versatile enough for any decor choice

Grey is gaining popularity as the new neutral in home decor. From paint colours to textiles, grey is fast becoming a mainstay. I used a shade of grey in our new bathroom that has a soft mauve undertone. It's very contemporary . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14

Longer-lasting air filters not advisable

Question: I have one simple question. I need to install a new gas furnace in my home. The local heating contractor has installed a Marv 10 air filter and claims this is good for a year, and after that time . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14

From seedy warehouse to spa showcase

It's not always the case that a son and his father become closer through an entrepreneurial relationship.But Mike Sudoski Jr. and his father managed to do it and achieve remarkable results in the process."When I was young, my grandfather took . . .

Posted: 2015-03-14