Lawn mowing tips, language of flowers and Mentor garage sale: AM LInks for Wed., April 23

Would you prefer your front lawn to be grass, vegetables or concrete? Tell us in the comments.

TIPS FOR MOWING SMARTER: Lawn-mowing time is almost here. Consumer Reports has outlined five lawn-maintenance tips that will keep your lawn looking great this year, as well as save you time and money.

The tips are:

Add compost to improve soil and help eliminate pests and diseases

Water established lawn thoroughly once a week with about 1 inch of water. Early morning is the best time to water.

Let the mower discharge the clippings back onto the grass while mowing; it can cut fertilizer costs and reduce watering.

Plant slow- -growth, drought-resistant grass species.

Maintain your mower properly. Sharp blades cut more quickly and cleanly, and along with basic engine maintenance, can reduce fuel costs by up to 25 percent.

The full list of lawn tips, as well as ratings of lawn mowers, tractors and riders, is featured in the 2014 May issue of Consumer Reports.

SAY IT WITH FLOWERS: Flowers have been used for centuries to communicate emotions and relationships between people. Discover the secret language of flowers, and find out how to make a Tussie Mussie, a small bouquet, from your garden flowers, during Tussie Mussie Florigraphy, a class offered by the Master Gardeners of Geauga County. The class is 9 a.m to noon on Saturday, May 3.

Link:
Lawn mowing tips, language of flowers and Mentor garage sale: AM LInks for Wed., April 23