QUESTION: I heard you on the radio today, loved the interview and information, wanted to call in but lines were full. Do you know of a solution for controlling dandelions in my lawn? Ronan (Richer, MB)
ANSWER: Years ago, dandelions were actually planted on purpose for their many uses. People would eat the crowns, make wine from the flowers, and coffee from the roots. Ask any four-year-old child what to do about dandelions and without hesitation they will answer, 'Give them to Mommy!' When I asked an 89-year-old lady about controlling dandelions she laughed and said, "Well, we just eat them. We add them to salads. Make sure that you eat a few bugs with the plants and then you will really have a healthy lunch." In fact, untreated dandelions are high in vitamins C and A and also contain magnesium, iron and calcium. But whenever I ask a busy middle-age homeowner about dandelions, the answer is almost always the same, 'Kill them!'
You can't get rid of dandelions by pulling off the tops, but you can dig them out. A dandelion digger is a specialized tool that removes a wide variety of individual weeds and their roots, causing little soil disturbance. The tool looks like a large screwdriver with a fish-tail end. Move it in the soil parallel to the tap root. With a small pivot, you can lift the entire plant, root and all. Of course there is also the option of a Weed and Feed method to control lawn weeds. Or, make your own dandelion killer: Pour boiling water or acetic acid (pickling vinegar) on weeds. Or in a pot, combine and stir together one gallon vinegar, one pound salt and one tablespoon dish soap. Pour over weeds. Repeat as needed. (Caution: These methods will kill all treated plants).
QUESTION: I thoroughly enjoy your columns and have a collection of clippings. I took the advice of putting vinegar into my loads of laundry. I put it in the machine along with the detergent while the machine is filling. Should I be waiting until the rinse cycle begins? I do find my clothes softer since using vinegar and no longer use softeners or dryer sheets. Thanks for the hint.
Irene (Victoria Beach, MB)
ANSWER: When I add vinegar to my machine, I do so right at the beginning of the cycle otherwise I get busy with other chores and forget to add it. The results are wonderful!
Feedback from Manitoban who cares:
Hello Reena:
Just read your answer to Kenton regarding making gravy in the last-minute rush before company arrives.
I always keep "one gravy ahead" in my freezer by either making an extra-big batch of turkey, chicken, pork or beef gravy. Then if I am really caught in a rush with too many other things to do before the meal, a few minutes of microwaving can produce hot gravy. Don't forget to replace it and label it when you are cleaning up. You can vary the seasonings and add mushrooms, mustard or horseradish if you wish. Eliza
Fabulous tip of the week: If you find that your fridge smells, clean out the entire unit, shelves, crisper, sides etc. Set an open bowl of coffee grounds onto the shelf. After a few days the unpleasant odour will disappear.
I enjoy your questions and tips, keep them coming! Missed a column? Can't remember a solution? Need a speaker for an upcoming event? Check out my brand-new website: reena.ca
