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Misting, instead of pouring water into the pot, is the preferred way to hydrate a cactus.
Benny Snyder / The Associated Press files
The texture of this small cactus can be seen at close range. When taking photos in your garden, of your landscaping or in the natural world, elements like shutter speed, light, composition and lens choice can all work together to help capture the natural beauty you observe with your eye.
Question: Can you please send me a tried-and-true remedy for fertilizing a cactus? — Betty
Answer: Cacti are hardy plants that require low nutrient care. Homemade cacti fertilizer is as easy as combining 1 tbsp of Epsom salt and 1 gallon water.
Misting plants with a spray bottle rather than pouring water into the pot is preferred. Succulents (plants with leafy tissues that conserve moisture) only need fertilizer in late spring or summer.
One of the very best trade secrets for happy cacti is to add compost rich in nutrients to soil mix.
Question: The mirror attached to my dresser has a film that I cannot remove, and I have tried a few things.
Would the sun do this to the mirror? What should I use? I normally only use water and microfibre cloths on my mirrors. — Linda
Answer: It is possible that the mirror is permanently etched from the sun. However, there may be other factors such as your water, or smokers who resided in your home (the haze may be from nicotine).
In any case, here are a few solutions to try that have proven successful.
Spray the mirror with shaving cream and wipe with three-day old, or older, newspaper.
You could also try to wipe the mirror with cornstarch and water, rinse with water and dry with newspaper.
Another option is to combine in a spray bottle: 1 tsp dish soap, 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol and 2 cups vinegar. Spray mirror and wipe with newspaper.
Or another option: mix equal parts household ammonia and water, wipe and dry with newspaper.
Question: I have inherited a leather recliner from my aunt. I am sure that the nursing home she lived in used some sort of detergent on the chair, and now everything sticks to it.
Is there something I can do, or use to get rid of the stickiness and restore the feel of the leather? It is a well-cared-for and comfortable chair, and I would like to keep it without recovering it. — Sharron
Answer: Restoring sticky leather is a two-step process.
Step 1: Combine 1 tbsp. dish soap into 2 cups water. Wipe leather with a sponge. Rinse with water.
Step 2: Using a soft cloth; apply commercial leather conditioner in a circular motion. Wait 20 minutes, and use the same soft cloth to gently buff the leather.
Question: My son is on the ice a few times a week for his hockey training. How often should I take his skates in for sharpening? Thanks. — Myron
Answer: The general rule is to sharpen skates after about 25 hours of skating. But if he walks on hard surfaces, or skates on rough ice, blades will dull faster.
Sharpening skates too often can reduce the life of the blades. If your son finds that he no longer grips the ice, and slips, or can’t properly turn — or you observe nicks in the blades — then it’s time.
Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.
Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca
