Last week, we focused on the best edibles to grow in your Southeast Michigan garden.  Since you’ve already planned your garden and are armed with the right tools, it’s time to dig in!  Here are six steps to successfully plant your garden.

1. On your mark.  The best part about building your own garden is that you can design it any way you wish.  For example, use curvy lines if you find them appealing or consider mimicking the outline of your home’s exterior walls.  Use sand or flour to create a general guide before you dig into the dirt.

Last week, we shared five professional tips to design and plan your dream home’s garden.  Today, one in three American households grow a portion of the food that they consume.  A study by the National Gardening Association (NGA) shows that food gardening is more popular now than ever before.   If you are going to include edibles in your garden this year, be sure to follow these three steps.

1. Determine location. First decide where to plant the edible garden within your overall landscape.  It’s good to use raised beds or planter boxes because they can be moved, however if you are planting a stationary edible garden, choose an area that will receive enough sunlight.  South-facing yards typically get the most sunshine while north-facing gardens are usually shaded.  As a result, west- and east-facing gardens will receive ample light.  The location of your edible garden also is impacted by the varieties you want to plant.  For example, spinach and lettuce thrive in partial shade because they may scorch in partial sun.

Designing and planting your new home’s garden may seem like an overwhelming job.  By using the right tools and taking the steps we’ve outlined for you, you’ll be growing your dream garden in no time!

1. Create a garden map. Walk around your entire property so you can sketch a rough garden map of all planting areas.  Note which areas are full- versus partial-sun, and which areas are primarily shaded.  If there are any existing trees or plants you want to keep, be sure to include them in your map.  Should you want to add a water feature, firepit or other dedicated areas in the near- or long-term, add those to your sketch as well although you may not be installing them immediately.

At Echelon Homes, we know how important it is to plan ahead.  If you haven’t already mapped out a family summer vacation, now is the time.  Here are the top five places to visit in Michigan this summer.

1. Climb the big dune at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore was named the “Most Beautiful Place in America” on ABC’s Good Morning America for many reasons.  Visitors have named the Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive and the Glen Haven Maritime Museum and Life Saving station, as their favorites.  If you enjoy hiking or biking, the views will take your breath away as you traverse dozens of trails.  The communities surrounding Sleeping Bear Dunes offer unique shops, galleries, food, music and wine, and plenty of places to stay while you visit the dunes.

Last week, we shared four tactics and tips to help simplify the spring cleaning of your new home’s fixtures, windows, walls, floors and more.  Remember, top-to-bottom interior cleaning may take a few days, so it’s best to tackle tasks in groups to pace yourself.

Here are five more tips to help you tackle spring cleaning more quickly and efficiently.

1. Focus on the fridge. Allowing dust to accumulate may ultimately cause your refrigerator to overheat and shut-down, so don’t skip this step.  If it’s possible to pull your fridge out, use a vacuum cleaner attachment hose to remove lint and dust from its back side and condenser coil which is usually located behind the toe grille.  Then wipe it down with a damp cloth.  On the inside, toss any expired foods—especially if you have any jars with unidentifiable objects.  Next, use an all-purpose cleaner or solution of baking soda and water to thoroughly clean all shelves and drawers.  If you can remove, soak and wash the shelves with dish detergent before putting them back, even better.