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As the spring construction season approaches, strong demand for rental housing in Lancaster County means an apartment building boom has kept up momentum despite rising interest rates and construction costs.

Subsidized affordable housing still remains in short supply, though a large number of units entering the market in the near future could help lower rents across the board.

Five new projects with at least 50 units each are currently under construction, making up a combined 416 units.

Another 19 projects with at least 50 apartments each are either proposed or approved for construction in the coming years, representing another 3,695 units. About half are in Lancaster city, and half in surrounding municipalities.

Economic conditions have forced some projects to delay construction. One local developer, Ben Lesher of Parcel B Development, said that since 2021, interest rates have doubled and construction costs have gone up 35%.

The new units should create more options, and possibly more price competition among developers a welcome sight for renters in a county where demand for rental units outpaces the rest of the state.

According to U.S. Census data, only 2.5% of the roughly 62,500 rental units in Lancaster County were vacant in 2022, compared to 4.8% statewide.

Brad Mowbray, senior vice president and managing director of High Real Estate Groups real estate division, recently reported at a forum on the countys real estate that the average rent for a Lancaster County apartment increased 3.5% to $1,433 in 2023, compared to a national average increase of .9%.

Among subsidized affordable units, the shortage is more severe. Two in five Lancaster County residents are cost-burdened, meaning they pay more than 30% of their income on rent, according to the nonprofit Hourglass Foundation.

Just 322 of the units currently proposed would be subsidized affordable units. In 2020 the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development suggested that Lancaster County needs 18,000 new affordable units to serve all of its cost-burdened renters.

1. Former St. Joseph Hospital, approved/proposed, 386 units

Projects by multiple developers comprise the citys largest proposed housing development, located in and around the former hospital at 250 College Ave. Two of them are scheduled to begin construction this spring: a $63 million project from Maryland-based Washington Place Equities to convert the former five-story hospital into 185 market-rate apartments, ranging from 700-square-foot one-bedrooms to 1,000 square-foot two-bedrooms, and rents that will depend on market conditions when it is completed in 24 months; and a five-story, 64-unit subsidized affordable housing project from HDC Midatlantic at 213 College Ave., designated for households earning between $10,000 and $45,000 per year 12 of which are reserved for people with intellectual and physical disabilities and rents between $220 and $998 per month.

Washington Place Equities has approval for 56 townhomes surrounding the hospital, but has listed the project for sale at an undisclosed price.

HDCs future plans include 30 subsidized affordable units in a wing of the former hospital and another 45 on a vacant lot at 838 Marietta Ave. Lancaster Lebanon Habitat for Humanity plans to build six owner-occupied units at 913 Wheatland Ave.

2. 500 N. Queen St., approved, 244 units

Apartments proposed in a mixed-use development at 500 N. Queen St. have been delayed indefinitely due to economic issues.

Exton-based Hankin Group got planning commission approval in 2022 for two five-story buildings with a mix of one- to three-bedroom units as part of a $100 million development including retail as well as medical offices which are currently under construction. Hankin got approval last April to split the project into phases, and temporarily build a parking lot on the apartment site. The developer said it still hopes to complete the apartments before land development approval expires in May 2027.

3. The Yards, approved, 226 units

Apartments ranging from studios to two-bedrooms at 1147 Lititz Pike in Lancaster city have been approved but remain on hold until a county judge rules on a neighbors lawsuit over the projects zoning approval.

The Yards, a $59 million project, includes two five-story buildings, 2,000 square feet of retail, a pool, fitness room, and a clubhouse inside the inn building, which dates to 1750 and will be relocated to a different part of the site. Rents will depend on the market when units become available, but 45 units will be subsidized affordable apartments for households making less than 60% of the areas median income or $51,600 for a three-person household, according to the developer, Parcel B Development.

4. 43 W. King, proposed, 150 units

A proposed six-story, $35 million project incorporating the facade of 43 W. King St., got approval from the citys historical commission in 2022, but still has still not been submitted for land development approval.

Plans shown to the historical commission in 2022 included 150 one- and two-bedroom units and 10,000 square feet of retail space.

5. El Capitan Coffee, proposed, 148 units

A proposed apartment complex including the El Capitan Coffee warehouse at 301-341 E. Liberty St. is on hold. Its owner continues to operate a business park on site while looking for a buyer to take over the project.

Rezoned from industrial to mixed use in 2021, the 2.3-acre site is currently listed for sale for $5.3 million. Owner Larry DeMarco had previously proposed a new building with 104 apartments a mix of one- and two-bedroom units ranging from 616 to 800 square feet, in addition to 44 apartments in the historic warehouse.

6. Mosaic, approved, 146 units

Lancaster Countys tallest building, approved for construction at 17 W. Vine St., is scheduled to break ground in late 2024, about six months later than expected, so developer Willow Valley can try to sign more residents to contracts. The $90 million, 20-story luxury retirement community is scheduled to be completed in 2027.

Nonrefundable fees which include nursing and memory care if needed range from $642,600 up front and $4,923 per month for two-bedroom, 1,592 square-foot units, to $1,432,600 up front and $6,943 per month for the largest, three-bedroom, 3,338 square-foot penthouse units.

7. 202 N. Queen St., under construction, 142 units

A 12-story apartment building with first-floor retail space, Lancaster Countys seventh tallest building is under construction at 202 N. Queen St.

Berger Developments project includes mostly 700-square-foot, one-bedroom units, and some studios and two-bedrooms. Amenities include a fitness room and sixth-floor roof terrace. Berger declined to share rents, but said last year that they would be between $1,300 and $2,000.

8. 232 N. Prince St., proposed, 130 units

A new seven-story building is set to replace the former offices of Benjamin Roberts at 232 N. Prince St., incorporating two historic building facades along Prince Street. Developer Parcel B Development hopes to get planning commission approval and begin construction sometime in 2024.

Units in the $29 million building will range from 309-square-foot micro-apartments to 925-square-foot two-bedrooms with rents depending on the market when it opens.

9. Stadium Row 2, approved, 96 units

An expansion of Stadium Row Apartments at 812 N. Prince St. planned just outside the right field fence of Clipper Magazine Stadium got city planning commission approval this month, but has no current construction timeline.

Apartments in the $21 million, five-story addition will range from 460-square-foot studios to 1,000-square-foot two-bedrooms, with rents depending on market rates when construction is completed, according to developer Parcel B Development. A first-floor cafe on Prince Street is planned, along with a new, larger fitness room.

10. 201 N. Queen St., proposed, 70 to 90 units

A proposed $10 million, four- to six-story addition to the six-story Red Rose Transit Authority Garage would have studios and one-bedroom units with rents between $1,100 and $1,600 and some affordable units subsidized by the owner. Approval from the city planning commission, the state Department of Transportation, and the Federal Transportation Administration is still required.

11. 347 N. Prince St., under construction, 72 units

A new seven-story apartment building with first-floor retail at 347 N. Queen St. in Lancaster city will begin leasing this spring in advance of a July opening.

Plans include a mix of studio and one-bedroom, market-rate units ranging from 550 to 850 square feet, with rents between $1,500 and $2,000. The retail space has not been leased yet, according to the developer, Bowery Development Co.

12. 116-122 N. Prince St., approved, 72 units

A seven-story apartment building at 116-122 N. Prince St. includes units ranging from 525-square-foot studios to 1,700-square-foot three-bedrooms, and first-floor retail space.

The citys historical commission and planning commission have both approved the project.

If that happens, and construction costs are favorable, work could begin this spring and be completed 18 months later, according to co-developer Don Herman. Construction costs will also determine the cost to rent the units.

13. 221-227 N. Prince St., proposed, 63 units

Two historic buildings at once proposed for conversion into apartments sold in September as former owner Steve Groff faced foreclosure after owning the properties for less than a year.

Groff had attempted to revive a project originally proposed by development company Eberly Myers, which lost the buildings to foreclosure in October 2022. Eberly Myers first attempt to develop the site as a high rise apartment building failed in 2019.

New owner Integrity First Capital of York County has not announced any development plans for the site, which is home to Roburritos and Limitless Lancaster Fitness. Integrity First CEO Paul Miller did not respond to a request for comment.

14. 800 S. Queen St., under construction, 52 units

Construction of subsidized affordable apartments and a 6,800-square-foot retail store on the site of the former Rebmans store at 800 S. Queen St. in Lancaster city is underway and scheduled for completion this fall.

Units in the $15 million, four-story building will range between 700 and 1,800 square feet. All units are reserved for households making less than 80% of the areas median income, with rents starting at $1,000 per month.

15. 215 N. Queen St., approved, 51 units

The property at 215 N. Queen St. is currently for sale for $995,000, including approved plans for an unbuilt six-story apartment building, after its developer put the project on hold due to increased construction costs. Development company Eberly Myers originally received city planning commission approval in 2020.

Plans include 51 one-bedroom units, 555 square feet each, which were set to rent for $1,000 to $1,500, as well as a 1,500-square-foot eatery.

Here are major construction projects across the county and the latest information about where they stand.

1. Greenfield North, approved, 628 units

An approved expansion of High Real Estate Groups Greenfield development includes 600 apartments and 28 townhomes comprising the largest proposed development in the county. While site work is underway for the project, High is only moving ahead with building two warehouses right now. It says market conditions need to improve before it begins work on the housing.

2. Oregon Village, proposed, 554 units

Oregon Villages developers continue to appeal Manheim Townships 2022 rejection of a zoning permit for the project. But earlier this year, they sold a 25-acre property which had been proposed for a 120-room hotel and the majority of the housing in the project, raising questions about the developments future prospects. The $120 million plan also calls for replacing the Oregon Dairy market and restaurant with larger facilities.

3. Rockvale, proposed, 504 units

One- to three-bedroom units are proposed inside 15 new four-story apartment buildings and one mixed-use retail building. New Jersey-based developer Fernmoor homes, which bought Rockvale in 2022 for $30.5 million, declined to share rental costs.

A spokesperson for Fernmoor said it hopes to have final approval for the first four buildings, with 128 units, by April. If approved, Fernmoor plans to begin work immediately, and have units available in 24 months. Phase 2, including the remaining units, a clubhouse, pool and walking trails, could be submitted for approval this fall.

4. Stehli Mill Lofts, Manheim Township., under construction, 165 units

Currently under construction and scheduled to open this summer, the $40 million, two-story conversion of the Stehli Silk Mill at 619 Martha Ave. in Manheim Township includes 165 units and 10,000 square feet of retail space.

Stehli Mill Lofts, led by Maryland-based Knight Street Capital and CAM Construction, includes a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments ranging from 725 to 1,575 square feet. Rents will range from $1,400 to $2,200 per month.

5. The Foundry, Manheim Township, under construction, 96 units

A three-story apartment complex located at 1036 Manheim Pike in Manheim Township is under construction, with units available in June, according to property management company, Boyd Wilson.

The Foundry includes one- and two-bedroom units ranging from 832 to 1,111 square feet, with rents between $1,872 and $2,500. Amenities include a pool, fitness center and dog park.

6. Bausman Place, under construction, 54 units

Rental applications are currently being accepted for subsidized affordable apartments under construction on Charles Street in Lancaster Township. Scheduled to open in May, Community Basics Inc.s Bausman Place includes units reserved for hearing/vision impaired residents, households experiencing homelessness, and young adults experiencing homelessness, as well units with access for people with disabilities.

The $17.5 million project consists of five, three-story apartment buildings with a mix of one- to three-bedroom units that range from 660 to 1,200 square feet in size that rent for $656 to $1,367 per month with utilities included. Applications are available by contacting 717-735-9590 or info@communitybasics.com.

7. 321 Manor Ave., Millersville, proposed, 52 units

An older adult community at 321 Manor Ave. in Millersville is still in the design stages, according to Landis Quality Living, which is developing it along with HDC MidAtlantic and property owner Immerse International. It would include a mix of one- and two-bedroom units with 11 subsidized affordable units.

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Here's the status of major apartment projects in Lancaster County - LNP | LancasterOnline

The recognizable sound of rooftop hammering is echoing in a southeast Colorado Springs neighborhood, as construction on a new apartment complex for low-income seniors moves toward completion.

The 75-unit Paloma Garden is coming to life at 920 S. Chelton Road, on land where a longtime nursing home, Laurel Manor Care Center, was demolished after 14 residents died in 2020 following a COVID-19 outbreak.

The idea to build more affordable housing for seniors crystallized in recent years for property owner Volunteers of America National Services, a nondenominational, faith-based nonprofit with headquarters in Alexandria, Va.

Weve been in Colorado Springs a long time, and senior housing is our expertise and strength, said Doug Snyder, vice president of regional real estate development for the Denver office of Volunteers of America. The nationwide nonprofit builds and manages housing for vulnerable populations and also provides health and human services.

Volunteers of America owns about 1,800 income-based units in 20 housing projects across Colorado, primarily along the Front Range and on the Western Slope, Snyder said.

Holdings include The Summit Apartments, a workforce complex off South Nevada Avenue in Colorado Springs, several projects in Denver and suburbs including Westminster, and apartments in Fort Collins, Durango, Delta and Montrose.

The Paloma Garden site also contains an existing three-story building with 50 apartments, Laurel Gardens, which is also for low-income seniors. Volunteers of America owns and is renovating that property at the same time, replacing the roof, windows, interior fixtures and heating systems, and refurbishing common areas, corridors and a community room.

Snyder, a housing developer, was brought in to assist with both facets of the project which, when combined, will offer a total of 125 affordable-housing units for seniors on the land.

They wanted to commit to stay in the community and come up with a new vision, he said.

Paloma Garden will feature one- and two-bedroom units for seniors ages 62 and above, who earn 30% to 60% or less of the area median income.

Those annual income ranges from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for last year for El Paso County were $20,500 to $40,980 or less for one person and $23,400 to $46,800 or less for two people.

The new building will include energy-efficiency features and a courtyard and outdoor recreational area, Snyder said. The architecture of both the existing and the under-construction complexes will be complementary.

In coming months, the 23-year-old Laurel Gardens, around the corner at 3140 Mallard Drive, will get new signage, landscaping, fencing, curb-and-gutter treatments and asphalt improvements to complete the refurbishment and a cohesive campus.

Not to be overlooked, Snyder said, There are pretty views of Pikes Peak for both buildings.

The $43.2 million Paloma Garden campus is using affordable-housing financing assistance, he said. That includes $1 million in state housing credits, 4% state tax credits obtained from the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority, tax-exempt bonds and Community Development Block Grants from the city of Colorado Springs, and El Paso County Housing Authority, which provided the loan.

Demand for affordable housing is greatly outpacing the availability of financing that developers need to build new below-market-rate units, Snyder said.

Costs have gone up on insurance rates, interest rates, building materials, he said. Further improvements to tax allowances at the state and federal levels would help the affordable housing market, Snyder said.

We have long wait lists and lots of applicants for all our projects, Snyder said.

Paloma Garden is scheduled to open in September. Pre-leasing will begin in the summer.

Two other affordable housing complexes for seniors are underway in Colorado Springs. Silver Key Apartments at South Murray, a $21 million, 50-unit building from Silver Key Senior Services, started construction at 1625 S. Murray Blvd. in mid-August of last year adjacent to its headquarters. The facility is expected to be completed in early fall of this year.

And the Myron Stratton Home Foundation is creating an 81-unit apartment complex for low-income seniors on its property off Colorado 115. That project is slated for completion by the end this year.

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Construction marches on for new low-income senior apartments in Colorado Springs - Colorado Springs Gazette

According to news reports, at least four people have died after a large fire engulfed two joined apartments in Valencia, Spain.

Television footage showed the buildings facade ablaze on the night of Thursday 22 February, with burning segments falling to the pavement and small explosions audible inside. According to witnesses, the fire, fanned by strong winds, spread to the entire building in about half an hour.

The apartment block where the fire started is a 14-storey block. It is thought that more than 15 people have also been injured due to the incident and up to 14 people remain unaccounted for.

It has been reported that one of the reasons the fire spread so rapidly was due to the materials used on the outside of the building, which was constructed in 2008-2009.

BBC news reports that its exterior featured a polyurethane material, which is no longer in wide use because of fears over its combustibility. It also has an aluminium covering.

In 2017 cladding was blamed for helping flames to spread when a fire broke out at Londons Grenfell Tower, resulting in 72 deaths.

A public inquiry following the Grenfell Tower disaster is still examining the causes of the events that led to the fatal fire.

A series of public hearings concluded in September 2022 and a report on the causes is expected to be published later this year.

In an update published last month, the Grenfell Tower Inquiry said it had completed draft chapters relating to manufacturers of construction products used on the building, as well as chapters on the certification bodies that signed them off for use in construction applications.

Link:
Fatalities as fire engulfs apartment blocks in Spain - Construction Briefing

American Home Shield offers three home protection plans. The ShieldSilver plan covers major appliances. The ShieldGold plan protects major systems alongside appliances. The ShieldSilver and ShieldGold plans include a $3,000 coverage cap per covered item. The companys flagship plan, ShieldPlatinum, covers appliances and systems plus roof-leak protection. It also increases the coverage cap to $6,000 per covered item.

The table below highlights the items covered by American Home Shield.

AHS provides a few add-on options:

Based on the quote we obtained for a 2,000-square-foot single-family home in Sherwood, Ark., you can expect to pay between $55 and $110 per month, depending on your selected plan and service call fee.

The table below outlines American Home Shields monthly premium per plan for each service call fee.

Get your quote:Fill outAmerican Home Shields quote formor call844-529-9298to request your free quote.

To learn more:American Home Shield review

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The Best Home Warranty Companies in Arkansas of 2024 - MarketWatch

Every Southern garden should have a fig tree. These small trees or shrubs produce delicious fruit with flavors best experienced ripe from the tree. Unlike other fruits, figs ripen entirely on the branch, so planting your own allows you to harvest the freshest fruit. The common fig tree (Ficus carica) thrives in warm climates and usually does not require pollination to bear fruit. Some varieties of fig trees rely on wasps to pollinate.

Despite bearing delicious fruit, fig trees can be invasive, as the roots spread widely in optimal growing conditions. Additionally, fig trees are not safe for animals and are toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Symptoms include gastrointestinal issues and skin irritation. The fruit from fig trees is generally considered safe for human consumption, but some people have a negative interaction with fig leaves and sap. Rashes or skin irritation can occur in some individuals after exposure, so wear gloves when maintaining this tree. Here's a guide to growing your own delicious common fig tree and the growing conditions that will help it thrive.

Figs are self-fruitful, so you need only one plant to produce fruit. Mature fig trees can be 10 to 30 feet tall. If you have more room, plant several. Choose early, mid and late-fruiting selections to extend your harvest from summer into early fall. Some figs will produce bonus fruit early in the season, called a "breba" crop, and the main crop. Figs can vary in size, shape, flavor, texture, and harvest time and can be black, green, brown, violet, yellow, or purple. Figs trees are invasive in some areas like Florida because optimal growing conditions encourage the tree's roots to spread widely.

Full sun is essential for an abundant harvest and the sweetest fruit. Ideally, you should plant fig trees in an area that receives six to eight hours of direct, daily sunlight. Less sunlight will prevent trees from producing as many figs compared to those planted with adequate light.

Fig trees grow in various soil conditions, but slightly acidic and well-drained soils are best. Soil with rich, organic matter helps supplement growth. Regular potting mixes work well for fig trees in containers as long as it retains moisture and is well-aerated. These plants grow well near coastal regions but also tolerate loamy, clay, or sandy conditions as long as soil is well-drained and retains some moisture.

When fruit is developing, it's important to water regularly. Check daily, and pick just as the fruit ripens. During the first year, as plants become established, water regularly and mulch. Once established, figs can be very drought tolerant.

Figs trees need warm conditions and subtropical climates to thrive but will tolerate some cold in winter as long as it remains above 15F. Areas with harsh winters are unsuitable for this species, but you can grow figs in big pots and overwinter them by storing them in a cool garage or basement. Since fig trees need well-drained soil, a dry climate is preferred, but some varieties have been bred for the humidity of the Southeast. Water-logged environments can prevent proper fruit development as too much rain causes fruits to split and possibly spoil.

Fig trees thrive in the Lower, Coastal, and Tropical South heat. Plant near a wall with southern exposure in the Middle South so they can benefit from reflected heat. Mulch well for winter and go with cold-hardy selections, such as 'Brown Turkey' and 'Celeste,' if you live in Zone 6 or 7.

Fertilize your fig with a balanced fertilizer in early spring when growth first starts to appear or at planting time if the tree is actively growing. Especially if you have soil with poor fertility, fig trees will benefit from an application of fertilizer each year. Fertilize a second time in late spring for 1 or 2-year-old plants.

Fig trees have small, inconspicuous flowers, but produce different colored fruits depending on the variety. Most varieties grown in home gardens bear female flowers that develop into fruit without pollination. Here are some specific types that you can grow in your own garden:

Fig trees don't need a lot of pruning throughout the year but can benefit from pruning during their dormancy (late winter or early spring) because it promotes new growth, healthier branches, and better fruit. Fig trees that aren't pruned will naturally develop a shrubby form.

To maintain a tree-form, establish a single trunk and remove suckers at the base. Alternatively, you can select three or more widely spaced leaders. Prune out crossing branches or branches that are too parallel to the ground and can't bear the weight of fruit. After the first year of growth, prune lightly during the dormant season, removing weak side shoots and dead or diseased wood. Excessively long and heavy branches can also be cut back by 1/3.

The easiest way to propagate fig trees is through cuttings. Here's how to propagate fig trees:

Growing a fig tree from seed is possible, but it is more challenging than propagating from cuttings. Seed propagation does not produce a duplicate plantthis can only occur from cuttings. For more experienced gardeners, here is how to grow fig trees from seed:

If you live in Zone 6 or cooler, you'll want to grow the tree in a container to ensure its survival. Smaller fig varieties like 'Little Figgy,' 'Brown Turkey,' and 'Chicago Hardy' can successfully be grown in a container. The container will naturally limit the size of the plant. Move up one container size larger than the nursery pot when planting your tree. Use a container with multiple drainage holes. A wheeled plant stand can be helpful if you need to move your container around.

Fill the container with high-quality potting soil with plenty of organic matter and plant the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil, then water well. Keep in mind that containers dry out quickly and require more frequent watering. You can prune the tree to keep it to a more manageable size. Repot the tree to the next size up when the roots outgrow the container. Bring the tree indoors in winter, as described below.

Container-grown trees must be brought indoors for the winter or buried in the ground and mulched. Wait for fig trees to go dormant for the season before moving them indoors. You'll know this has happened when all the leaves fall from the tree. Place the tree in a basement or garage that will protect it from freezing weather and strong winds. Keep watering dormant plants, but only about once a month when the top 2 to 3 inches of soil has dried out.

If you plan to keep fig trees outside and live in the colder part of the tree's range, wrap the trunk and roots in burlap or a tent to protect them from frost. Before covering the tree, tie the branches with a rope or twine to help protect the primary growth. In any climate that experiences frost, add mulch around the roots, like hay or wood chips, to protect roots from freezing temperatures.

The nematode is a pest that can impact a fig tree's longevity by attacking the roots, eventually stunting growth and the amount of fruit. Uncover some roots and inspect for swellings. Infected trees cannot be treated and should be removed. Don't replant in the same area, and consider having your soil checked for nematodes before planting another fig.

Pests including carpenter worm, sap beetle, and fig tree borer can prevent a fig tree from growing properly. To avert a fig tree borer infestation, use a net around the base of the tree to stop this pest from laying eggs near the fig tree. Spoiled fruit also encourages pest infestations and even fungal diseases that can occur after the fruit ripens. Harvesting ripe fruit immediately can also help prevent pests from attacking the branches and leaves.

To deter birds from eating your fruit, hang reflective tape or plant figs that stay green when ripe such as 'Marseilles' or 'Green Ischia.' Finally, cleaning up fallen leaves and fruit in autumn helps discourage pests and disease.

There are a few reasons why fig tree leaves might curl. The first is that under watering can scorch or burn the leaves. If you've had a dry spell, live in a dry climate, or have a newly planted tree, it is time to water if the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Fig rust can also cause leaves to curl, as described below.

Various fungi can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and eventual wilting or dying of stems. Remove diseased leaves and twigs and rake up and dispose of any fallen leaves to promote your tree's health. If fig rust causes heavy defoliation, spray the new leaves with a copper fungicide at three-to-four-week intervals (or more often in rainy weather).Fig rust starts as small yellowish-green spots that grow and turn brown, with leaves eventually yellowing or curling and falling off the tree.

Sunken, discolored spots on fruit are usually a sign of anthracnose. Infected figs will eventually drop to the ground. Remove any diseased fruit from the tree and the ground beneath the tree.

Late freezes and dry weather can also prevent fruit from developing or cause it to drop before ripening. During long dry spells while the tree is producing fruit, water your tree deeply. For established trees, once every 10-14 days is typically enough.

Figs can turn sour because of fermentation by yeasts, fungi, and bacteria. Pick the fruit as it ripens. Sometimes a lengthy wet spell can cause souring, in which case you may have no option but to dispose of the fruit.

The fruit of the common fig is edible and can be eaten fresh, dried, baked, or cooked in preserves. Birds, insects, and other wildlife also enjoy eating figs.

In their native range, common fig trees can grow 30 feet tall or higher. Colder temperatures in the U.S. usually keep the trees to 15 to 25 feet. Compact varieties like 'Little Figgy' top out at 4 to 8 feet tall.

Many species of fig are pollinated by fig waspstiny insects that crawl inside the fruit to pollinate the flowersbut most home-grown fig trees are self-pollinating. Popular varieties have small or closed openings that make it more difficult for wasps to enter.

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How To Grow And Care For Fig Trees - Southern Living

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Thinking about refreshing your kitchen or bathrooms? If so, what is your style preference? Maybe you're looking for something traditional, or maybe you're looking to update your kitchen for a sleeker, modern look and feel.

While everyone has a different style, there are some trends that cut through groups. Here are four kitchen remodeling trends that may spark your interest. Best of all, they all easily incorporate marble, granite, and quartz countertops.

The modern farmhouse style has been all the rage for the better part of three or four years. It's not going away, but more homeowners are taking a break from the modern farmhouse in the kitchen including all-white color schemes. This year, the trend appears to be more natural wood in darker colors.

Natural wood cabinets complement beautifully with quartz and marble, especially in darker colors. The right quartz or marble enhances the beauty of natural wood. Throw in a hardwood or natural stone floor and you have a stunning makeover.

The island has been a hot trend for more than a decade. These days, homeowners are looking for more functionality from the islands. They don't want large islands that provide merely extra seating space or a place to stack stuff during the week. Many are looking to utilize the space under their islands for storage. Think functional drawers and cabinets.

Improving storage space in an island has minimal impact on countertop choice. However, consider eliminating any lip or overhang if you're going to install doors. An overhang will get in the way. A better choice is to have the countertop edge flush with the drawers.

One of the more interesting trends in 2024 is adding refrigeration space. Homeowners want a traditional refrigerator for most of their daily-use items, but they also add small refrigerators under counters to store things like beverages and special treats. Even small refrigerators built-in an island work well.

Smaller refrigerators are ideal for items that get replenished regularly, especially within reach of the kids. The bonus is that an extra fridge is always handy for entertaining a crowd.

Finally, kitchen renovators are seeing a trend toward statement-making stoves and hoods. Rather than a plain white or stainless-steel stove and nondescript hood, homeowners are choosing to go big and bold with their hood-stove combinations.

You might not be in the market to replace your stove, but changing out the hood could make an enormous difference. By choosing a similar and complementary color, you can also coordinate your new hood with a quartz, marble, or granite countertop. A bold hood makes a huge statement in the modern kitchen.

Bedrock Quartz has the high-quality countertops you are looking for, regardless of your style or plans for your remodeling project. Visit them and see their full selection of countertop materials, edges, colors and custom backsplashes. They're confident you'll find something that works perfectly. Remember, they install what they sell and back up every transaction with the customer service you expect and deserve.

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4 kitchen remodeling trends to watch in 2024 | KSL.com - KSL.com

In the South, the kitchen is the headquarters of the home. It's the place where food and family come togethertwo important parts of any Southern household. Even with its high status and heavy foot traffic, you don't need a huge kitchen for a big impact on your home. When your home layout features a kitchen on the smaller side, there are plenty of opportunities to have ample space and storage without sacrificing any style. Get inspired to bring function and flair together for clever layouts and designs with these beautiful small kitchen ideas.

Brie Williams

If you don't want to keep just one color but love that clean and bright look, mixing whites and neutrals is a great way to achieve this. In this kitchen, designer Molly Williams painted her cabinetry a bright white and added a neutral bamboo wallpaper for visual interest.

French interior design is defined by its classy and charming style which can help make a small kitchen feel like the perfect size. This Nashville condo used black and white checkerboard flooring to make a statement among the clean, neutral color palette of the rest of the elements.

Small kitchens have a tendency to feel cramped due to their size, but making sure it is light and bright can help alleviate this issue. This kitchen makes the window the center of the room and has the wall and cabinets painted white to make it as bright as possible.

Jillian Guyette

In small kitchens, it's hard to pack in a ton of decoration without feeling cluttered. In this South Carolina kitchen, the bold and vibrant tile was used as the focal point to avoid putting a ton of tiny decorations in the space.

When your kitchen doubles as your dining area, creating a cohesive look is key in making it feel less cramped. In this kitchen, the wood tone of the dining table in the center is similar to the brown countertops and the decorative paintings.

This Cape Cod style cottage has a stunning vintage-inspired color palette among vintage decor to make a cohesive aesthetic. The island holds refrigerator drawers and a bookcase for cookbooks for effective storage.

If you want your small kitchen to feel larger but don't love the idea of painting everything white, a light sage green is a great, colorful alternative. This historic Savannah kitchen painted all of the cabinetry green and it still feels bright and open.

Small kitchens were the norm in the past, so don't be afraid to take the retro look and run with it. This South Carolina cottage incorporates retro elements like the skirted sink, curtain over the window, metal cut cabinet fronts, and vintage decorations.

When the island is used frequently, making sure it looks great is important. This kitchen painted the island a lovely shade of green to add visual interest and make the seating area look inviting.

Open shelving, especially in small kitchens, can make the space look cluttered. In this Nashville kitchen, the open shelf above the fridge has dishes of the same family and design so it looks cohesive while still being functional.

The coastal aesthetic has been a huge trend recently, and for good reason. The happy blue mixed with bright white is a gorgeous combination to make a colorful yet light kitchen. This kitchen balanced the blue and white elements beautifully to make an open and airy look.

Choosing a backsplash is for your kitchen is important, as it can be focal point of your design. In this kitchen, the backsplash is taken up to the ceiling to make the kitchen look larger.

Glass cabinets are a great way to show off your dishes, but they also reflect light from the window to make the kitchen brighter. In this kitchen, the glass cabinets are white and reflect light to illuminate the kitchen.

Too much pattern in a narrow space can be overwhelming, so make the focal point floor-level. This kitchen uses bright geometric tiles to create visual interest without having too many small decorations.

If you kitchen has a lot of wood elements, use that your advantage. This kitchen kept the natural color of the wood and added neutral paint to the rest of the kitchen to make an inviting vibe.

When it comes to decorating small kitchens, dishes and dinnerware can sometimes act as the decor. If you have cookbooks, putting them on display adds a unique element that isn't so typical. In this kitchen, the cookbooks are placed at the top to make a bright decorative display.

Keeping the primary color in small kitchens light and bright is helpful when making the space look larger, but a vibrant color is nice to have for visual interest. This kitchen used a multi-colored rug to contrast nicely against the white paint.

When your kitchen is in the same room as your dining area, keeping the aesthetics similar is a great way to make your space feel larger. In this kitchen, adding identical pendants makes the rooms blend seamlessly together.

Contrast is a great way to make your kitchen design look appealing to the eye, This kitchen contrasts black elements like the countertops and island with white elements like the cabinets and shelves to create a satisfying look.

If your house layout is on the smaller side, functionality is important in making house feel like a home. Even with this, you can use styling to your advantage to make functionality a breeze. This kitchen uses appliances that are all similar in look so you can't even tell that a laundry machine is sitting to the left.

Adding a surplus of artwork can make a small kitchen feel cluttered and overwhelming. In this kitchen, one large and simple painting siting on top of the stove hood to create a sleek and tasteful look.

The rustic look is truly timeless and can make a small kitchen feel cozy and inviting. This kitchen embraces the wood cabin look and adds more rustic elements like cafe skirts and rattan baskets for storage.

Laurey W. Glenn, Styling: Buffy Hargett Miller

For homeowner Catherine Gibbs, a childhood spent on sailboats meant that a galley kitchen in her Inlet Beach, Florida, home offered obstacle-free convenience: I can walk from one appliance to another in two steps without having to circumnavigate a great big island."

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23 Small Kitchen Ideas To Make The Most Of Your Space - Southern Living

The most popular kitchen paint colors come and go, some stick around for decades before being replaced and some are gone in less than a season. And while we always say to follow trends with caution, when it comes to your kitchen color you do want to pay some attention to what's in style to ensure your space doesn't look dated.

So what kitchen paint colors are on trend for 2024? And which kitchen colors are out of style this year? We asked the experts for the color trends to avoid in your kitchen this year and which shades you should be using instead.

Color, especially kitchen color, is one of the most fundamental design decisions you can make in this functional space. Finding the right painted kitchen ideas can help you avoid making disastrous color mistakes.

Here decorators and designers reveal what kitchen paint colors are going out of style for 2024, and how to approach choosing paint ideas for kitchens using the color wheel, the latest kitchen trends, and paint trends.

(Image credit: deVOL)

'In more recent years, neutrals with colder undertones have been replaced with warmer shades of the hue alongside altogether bolder color choices. Kitchens are the perfect place to introduce more saturated colors, particularly if the rest of your homes palette leans more toward light neutrals,' explains Helen Shaw, Director of Marketing at Benjamin Moore.

'Opting for a bold color on walls or cabinetry is a great way to renew the whole room and make the space pop. Deep earthy tones like burgundy and terracotta shades enhance the rustic warmth of a wooden kitchen look, where deep greens and navy walls will perfectly contrast a cool marble surface.'

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Helen Shaw is part of Benjamin Moore's UK division. Color expert and international marketing director, Helen and her husband Craig are founders of Shaw Paints, acquired by Benjamin Moore in 2020.

(Image credit: Farrow & Ball)

'Say goodbye to bland and tone-on-tone palettes in 2024,' says designer Julie Anne Burch.' Kitchens will embrace fresh, clean designs with pops of intriguing colors. Alternatively, bold and unique color palettes will take center stage, offering a departure from the ordinary. The key to kitchen design in 2024 lies in creating sharp contrasts either embracing timeless traditional elements or venturing into uncharted territories with innovative ideas.'

Bringing in accent colors into a kitchen color scheme does have a bit of a knack to it however, in order to nail this trend you don't want it to look overly considered. Avoid pops of color that perfectly match because it can look staged and flat, instead opt for a tonal approach adding in different shades of the same color throughout the room to ensure there's depth.

(Image credit: deVOL)

Red is a strong and bold color for the kitchen the workhorse of the home but lately we've been witnessing a color shift to a softer, subtle hue enter pink.

Rich, elegant, and nuanced pink is undisputedly the color trend of the moment. A warm pink, like the one above, lends sophistication to a scheme. A versatile hue, it can veer into a playful pastel or brighten into deep coral.

This tone works perfectly in a small kitchen that is rather dark, or which suffers from a lack of natural light,' says Elizabeth Hay, founder, of Elizabeth Hay Design. 'Not only does it inject a space with brightness and cheer, but it will also bring out and highlight any accent colors in the room.

With its clear ties to the natural world, warm pink is used for painting accent walls and brightening a kitchen or dining area with splashes of color that symbolize and promote health and vitality.

Due to its close relationship with pink and orange shades, the color is mood-boosting and energy-stimulating without becoming overwhelming like many red kitchen shades. On the other hand, with more muted and subtle tones, pastel pink can become a good choice to enhance quiet confidence and serenity, enthuses Sarah Lloyd, senior brand manager at Valspar.

(Image credit: Davonport)

Once a tried-and-trusted neutral, gray has since fallen out of favor when it comes to kitchen cabinet colors. Instead, more designers and decorators are reaching for beige the new neutral in interior design.

The power of a beige kitchen color palette to add warmth and elegance to the heart of our home should not be underestimated. A soft scheme of harmonious neutrals creates a reflective backdrop to the ever-changing light of the seasons.

The broad spectrum of neutral, earthy shades they conjure up offers rich inspiration for creating a soothing scheme. From creamy limestone shades and the oaty tones of untreated linen to the grayish-browns of weathered oak and warm earthenware ochres, neutral shades can be as captivating as color.

(Image credit: deVOL Kitchens)

Another former favorite, white kitchens are no longer the desirable kitchen trend they once were. These days, designers and clients are reaching for mood-boosting hues to add a touch of joie de vivre to their kitchens.

'We are specifying and seeing fewer pure white and gray kitchens lately,' explains Jennifer Walter, founder of Folding Chair Design.'The bright white and gray trend saw its day, and kitchen cabinetry is seeing a resurgence of light woods and deep colors. People arent as afraid to use color in their kitchens, and with the popularity of the English kitchen, deep blues, yellows, and even cranberry palettes are becoming wildly popular.'

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In a Baltimore rowhouse in 2010, Jennifer Walter founded Folding Chair Design Co. with a baby on her hip and one on the way. Her mission from the start has been to enhance the lives of her clients by realizing the greatest potential in their homes.

(Image credit: Plain English)

Navy blue will always be popular, but lately, designers have been considering softer, subtler, serene variations in the modern kitchen. A shade that's always been popular in the world of interiors, ocean blue is set to be 2024's kitchen paint color du jour.

From the alluring aquamarine hues of sandy Caribbean shores and the glistening teal tones of pebbled Mediterranean beaches to the inky blues and midnight notes of deep Atlantic waters, the colors of the ocean are as serene as they are striking and offer a versatile spectrum for decorating a contemporary and country kitchen alike.

Ocean blues, like lapis and cerulean, are the most wonderfully gender-neutral paint colors,' says Nicole Salvesen, co-founder, of Salvesen Graham. However, avoid using cold blues in north-facing rooms. Instead, find those that have some warm tones in them and they will be a brilliant backdrop for artwork, texture and timber.

(Image credit: Caesarstone/Kate Feather Kitchens / Birgit Mons Photography)

Dark kitchen cabinet colors were once considered the best paint palettes for kitchens. They were bold, strong and hid a multitude of decorating sins. However, we've gone full circle, like most trends, and are now welcoming back the pastel hues that previously graced 1950s kitchens up and down the country.

From peaceful pinks to blissful blues, pale sugary shades will give the illusion of space and create a restful atmosphere in the home.

'Pastel colors offer a charming alternative to neutrals or dark shades; they are calm but embracing, soothing but uplifting, and can give added life to a room without being overpowering', says Ruth Mottershead of Little Greene.

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Ruth Mottershead is the creative director of the family-run paint and wallpaper businesses Little Greene and Paint & Paper Library, which specialize in creating luxurious paint and wallpaper that represent 300 years of decorative history.

What all of these shades indicate is that while 2023 was the year of bold and bright colors, 2024 is more about warmer, softer, more liveable colors. That's not to say these kitchen colors are bland, they are just easier on the eye pinks and rust red instead of primary shades, grown-up pastel blues instead of the ever-popular navy, and warm beiges instead of cooler grays.

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Kitchen paint colors going out of style in 2024 | - Homes & Gardens

When you think of porcelain, you might think of fragile, traditional dinnerware and ornate teapots, but the ceramic is now being used more frequently as a building material in kitchens and baths. In countertop form, porcelain is actually quite durable, stain-resistant, and easy to maintain, which might explain why its growing in popularity. According to Google Trends, interest in porcelain countertops began to rise in 2017and its still rising steadily, with searches for the topic more than doubling over the past seven years.

Gail Conroy, vice president of marketing for Caesarstone in the Americas (which produces a line of porcelain countertops), says that while porcelain for countertops is still a relatively new idea, it has been popular in Europe because of its thin 12 millimeter edge profile, but we are seeing porcelain gaining momentum here in the U.S. We see people get excited about achieving the rich look of natural stone but with the durability you need to hold up in the kitchen. So the pros of porcelain countertops far outweigh the consfind out why they're so great and how they compare to other popular materials like quartz and granite.

Because theyre porcelain, a man-made material, theyre technically considered engineered countertops. Conroy explains that the countertops are made pretty much the way most people would expect of traditional porcelain manufacturingwith a lot of high heat.

They are made through a process that involves mixing a blend of raw minerals, forming slabs, and firing them at high temperatures. After firing, the porcelain slabs may be subject to an additional step, undergoing polishing and honing to achieve the desired finish and texture, she says. That extreme high heat (over 2,650 degrees Fahrenheit) is precisely why its so durable and heat-resistant.

Porcelain is technically stronger than granite, thanks to the extreme heat and homogenized combination of raw materials used in the production process. Its pretty scratch resistant, too, on par with quartz and granite. Its only weakness is sharp ceramic knives, which may leave behind a few nicksthough you shouldnt really be chopping foods directly on top of any countertop, regardless of the materials!

Like we mentioned, porcelain is produced in super high temperatures, meaning it can withstand piping hot pots and pansno trivets required. And on a related note, it can also stand up to the suns intense warmth. UV rays dont affect the surface, so it wont fade over time, making it an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens.

Porcelain countertops are essentially non-porous and nearly impervious to water, meaning staining shouldnt be an issue. Plus, they dont require any specialized cleaners. Conroy says, You can easily clean it just with soap and water. For tougher messes we recommend using a soft cleanser like Bar Keepers Friend. And unlike natural stone countertops, you never need to reseal them either, so long-term maintenance isnt a hassle.

Porcelain is incredibly light compared to other countertop materials, so its easy to handle for installation. Plus, because its typically very thin, you can install it on top of an existing countertop. However, porcelain countertops installations are not something you should DIY because theyre so thin. Once installed theyre very tough, but handling the thin material during installation without any experience is very risky and may lead to cracking mid-installation.

Unlike natural stone, you can pretty much make porcelain look like whatever you want since its a man-made product! Essentially, you can get the look of marble at a fraction of the cost and with way more durability.

According to Angis 2024 estimates, porcelain countertop installation can range from $1,500 to $3,800. A slab is typically $50 to $120 per square foot, while tile costs between $10 and $50 per square foot. (So if youre trying to cut back on costs, opting for tile is a good way to do that.)

Porcelain is roughly on par with quartz when it comes to stain resistance, maintenance, and appearance, since both are engineered products and can mimic just about any natural stone. Porcelain is a bit more heat-resistant though, while quartz is slightly more durable. Both materials are tougher and easier to care for than granite, although granite is just as heat-resistant as porcelain. In terms of cost, porcelain is generally less expensive than quartz and granite.

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All About Porcelain Countertops, the Latest Kitchen Trend - Real Simple

The material used for the cabinet doors in your kitchen is a key design consideration, given that the door and drawer fronts usually make up the single largest element of the room. While many of us are tempted to have painted kitchen cabinetry and joinery for its wipe-clean ease, varnished natural wood, with its innate beauty, sets an artisanal and interesting tone.

'The demand for wood kitchen ideas is growing to meet the desire for a connection with nature indoors,' says Paul Welburn, senior designer, at Roundhouse.

The use of natural materials has increased considerably during the pandemic and will strengthen in appeal as unpainted kitchen cabinets become a firm fixture. Not only do they have a rich aesthetic quality, but they are increasingly being recognized for their health benefits (reducing the amount of chemically treated items in the home).

With this beautiful yet simple design, Mexican-American actress and film producer Salma Hayek demonstrates how oak cabinet kitchen ideas can add warmth and depth to a kitchen.The latest wood kitchens are forgoing painted cover-ups and revealing their true beauty.

The freshest way to do wood? As natural as possible. Wood kitchens have always waxed and waned when it comes to kitchen cabinet trends. Now, rich walnuts and the unusual linear patterns of wenge and zebrano are making way for paler textural timbers. Wood suits contemporary and classic schemes, from smooth flat-fronted modern cabinetry to rough-sawn country-style cabinets, so there is a timber look for everyone.

Unpainted kitchen cabinets have fallen out of favor in recent years, yet they can bring warmth and character to a space that may otherwise feel cold and clinical. However, take care not to overwhelm the space with wood finishes consider adding painted elements, and contrast tones and textures to prevent the space from looking homogenized, as in this design by Sims Hilditch.

Consider ways to bring interest to the kitchen with lighting, hardware, and countertops. This way you will still have some personality in your space, says Georgia Zikas, founder of Georgia Zikas Design.

If you're considering investing in wood kitchen cabinets for your kitchen remodel, you're in good company. Many experts believe we'll be seeing this kitchen trend in 2025. Wooden kitchens are a simple blank canvas from which you can experiment with your dcor.

As a natural material, the tone and pattern of wooden cabinets may vary from the samples you first saw. You should allow for this when planning your scheme, says Leila Touwen, co-founder of Pluck Kitchens. Also the color may change subtly over time. Celebrate these differences as theyll make your kitchen unique.

Glass Cloche with Wooden Base

Acacia Medium Cheese Board

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Salma Hayek's kitchen cabinets will dominate in 2025, say experts | - Homes & Gardens