In eighth grade, the girls in my middle school were required to take one year of Home Economics. The course was cleverly divided into two sections: cooking and baking the first semester, followed by sewing the second semester. Our teacher, Mrs. Blythe, (who wore a flour-dusted apron to match her flour-dusted hair) taught us to make all sorts of delicious goodies; the leftover brownies I handed out after class only increased my popularity index.

When second semester rolled around, however, the bloom was off the proverbial Home Ec rose as we prepared to undertake the onerous task of learning how to sew. Our final assignment was to craft a throw pillow; I chose a heart-shaped pattern with pale blue calico fabric accented with little pink flowers that would have made Laura Ingalls proud. Based on the pictures on the front of the pattern envelope, this creation was going to look swell on my bed. The fragile blue and pink colors would add some visual interest to my white candlewick bedspread, and the heart shape itself was emblematic of all my unrequited crushes.

But once the whispery pattern paper was out of the package and the mathematics of measuring, cutting, and threading the sewing machine needle loomed ahead of me, a debilitating mix of self-doubt and distraction rendered me useless to complete the project. While I scurried off to watch “The A Team,” my sainted mother picked up the pieces of my broken/unformed heart and completed the assignment. My heart-shaped pillow had a place of pride on my bed for years to come.

Happily, I have never had to repeat this failed sewing experiment. The scads of stores and local talent for creating this decorating staple are abundant, which leaves me to do the imagining and dreaming, rather than the actual work. As the darling of a decorated room, the throw pillow is a veritable jack-of-all trades wrapped in all sorts of beautiful packaging.

Throw pillows provide a little bit of function and a whole lot of punch to a decorating theme. Certainly, a plump pillow on a sofa makes the seating experience that much more comfortable, but a throw pillow can also add drama, excitement and a unique aesthetic to the room. Throw pillows are commonly used to tie in color accents within a room, often drawing on the colors in window treatments, walls or area rugs. However, Diane Poff, of Diane Poff Interiors LLC, contends that the very pillow itself can be the inspiration for an entire room. “We can just as easily be captivated by the dynamic color or beautiful design of a particular pillow as we are by a favorite painting or piece of furniture,” she says.

When deciding which fabric to use for a pillow, the possibilities are endless: silk, leather, microfiber, microsuede, suede, cotton, linen, hemp and almost any other fabric can be used to make a pillow.

The Anatomy of a Pillow
Pillows may be filled with a synthetic filling, a combination of down and goose feathers, or down (the lightest, fluffiest, most expensive feathers). While down is certainly the softest and most luxurious, it tends to lose its shape with frequent use. Synthetics hold their shape, but are stiff and unyielding. Perhaps the best of all worlds is the feather-down blend, which holds its shape, stays soft, and is moderately priced.

The least expensive option is to buy a ready-made pillow that is stuffed with polyester fiber fill (commonly known as “poly”). Such pillows do not have a removable inside form, so you lose the ability to swap covers. A more expensive choice is to buy a pillow that has an insert made of a down and feather blend. Also available is a down-like poly fill that is hypoallergenic.

The most luxurious choice of all is the pillow with an insert made of a down and feather combo, with down as the primary filler. As the percentage of down inside the pillow increases, so does the price, though it’s not exorbitant. (A standard square insert made of down costs approximately $20.) The blend gives the pillow a soft, plump, decadent feeling. Most experts agree that a down blend feels plusher, is easier to fit into the fabric case, and frankly, just looks better.

Experts also recommend that if the pillow you are purchasing contains down, you should be sure that it is encased in down-proof ticking. Ticking is a type of fabric that can be used as a seal. Feel the pillow; if it’s prickly, it’s not down-proof. What you are feeling are the quills of the goose feathers poking through.

Zippers, envelope-style closures and ties allow you to remove the pillow cover from the insert for easy cleaning. While zippers are hidden near the seam, envelope closures on the back of the pillow as well as ties can be made of decorative elements and become an integral part of the design.

Pillows also come in many shapes and sizes to suit your tastes. Consider the following:

SQUARE: Mix up a few different sizes with this versatile shape. The most common sizes range between 18 and 22 inches.

RECTANGLE: The elongated proportions of a rectangular pillow are stylish at a sofa’s midpoint, flanked by groupings of square pillows.

BOX: Depth and dimension give a standard square throw pillow more structure.

ROUND: A circular pillow tends to have a retro look and plays well against a squared-off seat and back.

ROUND BOX: A round pillow with a few inches of thickness gives dimension to the basic round pillow.

BOLSTER: Use these accents on both ends of a couch like armrests, or on a bed.

FLOOR PILLOWS: (32″–36″ square) A family favorite, especially in children’s rooms. They provide both form and function in a room, as well as a playful element.

All the Pretty Details
Lizi and David Gilkeson of The French Thistle approach pillow-making with palpable excitement. Lizi’s degree in fine arts and extensive study of sculpture and textiles give her a unique perspective that she puts to work when designing a pillow. She attests to constantly experimenting with different fabrics, shapes and sizes, and combining fabric with buttons, trim, and other embellishments to create a unique product.

Cindy Podeschi and Joanie Johnston, of Hullabaloo Interior Design in Roanoke, also think outside the box when it comes to their pillows, playing with different colors, textures and trims to keep the end result interesting. Some of the trims that are most frequently used include:

ROPE: Use rope trim to add texture and color to the edge of a pillow.

RIBBON: Use ribbon to accentuate the shape of a pillow.

POM-POMS: The ultimate in playfulness! Dancing pom-poms are a sweet touch to a pillow, especially one used in a child’s room.

TASSELS: This type of trim brings a sense of movement and style to a final product, but can get caught easily. (Cats are especially drawn to this swingy stuff!)

FRINGE: Loop fringe provides the perfect upscale complement to a pillow.

The Versatility of a Pillow
Throw pillows are a perfect vehicle through which you can convey your personality, family tradition, or simply showcase a beautiful piece of fabric without monopolizing your entire decorating scheme. Use a throw pillow as an accent piece, much like you would a painting or objet d’art. Pillows can also inject a touch of whimsy: Think of the cheeky little pillows that have quotations on them, such as, “If you have nothing nice to say then come sit by me” (Alice Roosevelt Longworth) or “Women are like wine…they get better with age” and the like. Placing throw pillows with saucy sayings or unusual graphics (how about a photo of your dog?) is a noninvasive way to infuse a little humor. Some of The French Thistle’s more whimsical creations include an orchid and bird motif bolster, as well as an ultra-girly pink polka-dot pillow covered with bows, and animal print pillows.

Consider using unexpected fabrics and items to craft into throw pillows, such as a child’s dress, Dad’s old sweater, a vintage napkin or tablecloth, an afghan, scarves, vintage grain sacks, rugs or tapestry. This type of pillow works especially well in a less formal area, such as a child’s room or family room. Using loved items is a great way to recycle and keep a bit of family tradition alive. Any upholsterer, seamstress or decorator with a commercial-grade sewing machine can probably accommodate such a request.

Needlepoint is a centuries-old handcraft that may be used to create gorgeous, opulent-looking pillows. Typically, the needlepoint appears on just one side of the pillow, while a coordinating and often less-expensive fabric serves as the other side.

Using a throw pillow as an accent is also the perfect opportunity to splurge on that sumptuous fabric you’ve been eyeing. As most throw pillows only require a fraction of the fabric yardage than a larger project like draperies or upholstery, you may be more likely to treat yourself to the very expensive fabric that you love for two accent pillows. Hullaballo’s Podeschi and Johnston heartily endorse this concept. They love to use pillows from luxe and natural fabrics that “feel good to touch.” Podeschi adds, “Make sure you use them. What good are beautiful accessories if you don’t use them?” Indeed.

There’s nothing quite like a quick and easy swapping of throw pillows to usher in a new season or holiday. One local homeowner’s overall neutral palette (think taupe and ivory) provides a soothing background for her accessories. This spring, she will add pops of fresh color with her lime green throw pillows, candle holders, ceramics and vases. Come autumn, she’ll store the lime green accents to make way for the richer hues of chocolate and orange. Likewise, a cheery Christmas-themed pillow amid a collection of other throw pillows is as much a part of December décor as the Christmas tree. In general, pillows made of linen or chintz provide a lighter look for spring and summer months, while velvet, chenille or corduroy work well for fall and winter.

Diane Poff is a big fan of this easy update. She recommends using the existing insert of your pillow, and replacing the outer casing with fresh, new fabric. By adding fringe, grosgrain ribbon or fabric left over from other projects to trim the pillow, you have instant change.

Keep your eyes open to the myriad possibilities that throw pillows offer to your overall home decor. Retail stores, websites and custom-made products by local talent will provide your room with just the flourish it needs.

Water is a source of Both life and comfort; it invokes all the senses with its natural delights. Because of these inherent qualities, there is nothing quite like a water source to enhance the landscape. Swimming pools are one way for homeowners to bring the aesthetics of water close at hand. And today’s pools are a far cry from yesterday’s aqua-colored rectangular holes sunk into the backyard.

Create the Pool of Your Dreams
Imagine floating in a tropical paradise with waterfalls, reflecting pools and lush landscaping with islands, rock formations and other natural features. Fantasy pools are just that. These pools are works of art, incorporating a variety of elements that can reflect the personalities and lifestyles of individual homeowners.

When creating fantasy pools, appearance is important. There are several options that a good pool contractor can offer to make the pool area a true asset to the property. Jason Vaughan, who owns National Pools with his wife Ginnie, points out that there is simply no end to the variety of pools available today. In choosing the right design, however, it is important that the shape of the pool fits the style of the house. “Ultimately, the pool and house should appear as if they were both built together,” he says.

Ginnie Vaughan stresses the importance of hiring a landscape architect to work on your pool project. Landscaping provides privacy, adds elegance and creates an air of serenity as an escape from hectic everyday life. Landscaping also helps the pool area blend in with its surroundings. A landscape professional can be a real help with the design of the entire pool area, helping you visualize the “big picture,” including elements like location, shape and support buildings.

Pool specialists recommend that homeowners check their finances before considering a pool. If a homeowner wants to install an in-ground pool with the hope of increasing the value of the property, costs can be high. The old adage “you get what you pay for” is true here. A fantasy pool can easily run $100,000 or more once the patio, decking, fencing and support structures are installed and landscaping is completed.

Cool Trends in Pools
Over the years, pool styles have changed from large pools with small patios and decks, to today’s fantasy pools that are shallower and lack diving areas, water slides and handrails. Anything that might impede the view or surrounding scenery is often omitted. Fire pits and water sprays are increasingly commonplace. There is also a trend to design pools to look more natural. Beach entries, where the deck or patio slopes gradually down into the water to create a beach effect, are popular. Waterfalls and large boulders placed strategically in and around the pool are more over-the-top features included in today’s pools. Vanishing edges or infinity pools are also the latest rage. Here water is filled to the top edge of the pool, streams over the edge and circulates back into the water system. Each addition, making the pool more attractive, adds extra costs.

A relatively new design feature is a “lazy river.” According to Donnie Shaver of Spas & Pools of Virginia, “Kids absolutely love them!” Designed like a trail running through the property, a lazy river allows people to swim or float downstream in their own backyard. Shaver plans to include one in his own personal pool, which will go around the entire circumference of the pool.

Assess Your Needs, Lifestyle
Jason Vaughan explains that the first step in pool planning is to consider the fundamental use of the pool. This “drives the shape and affects the overall size of the pool,” he says. It will also help the contractor understand what type of pool will fit a family’s individual needs. Is the pool for recreation? Will it be a place for children to play and families to keep cool in the summer? Recreational pools need not be very deep. Using the pool for exercise? A lap pool needs to be long enough to allow swimmers room for a sufficient number of strokes before reversing directions. It need only be 3.5 feet deep and not very wide. For water aerobics, the pool must be deep enough to tread water without touching the sides or bottom of the pool. A swim spa or endless pool is another exercise option. Here the pool has a built-in water current that is powerful enough for a swimmer to swim against it and literally tread water in place, similar to the way a treadmill works for runners.

Pools which include diving boards must be built according to safe diving specifications developed by the National Pool and Spa Institute. The pool must be at least nine or ten feet deep, and this depth must extend out at least twelve feet in front of the board.

Many homeowners plan to use their pools for entertaining. If this is the case, the pool should be close to the house with easy access to the kitchen and changing areas. Or an outdoor kitchen and pool house can be included as part of the pool design.

Constructing a Fantasy Pool
Today’s pools are manufactured from concrete (gunite and shotcrete), vinyl and fiberglass. It is important to understand the benefits of each, and decide which product is right for you. Jason Vaughan points out that gunite, which his company uses exclusively, enables him to form any shape imaginable. Gunite and shotcrete both use a concrete mixture which is sprayed directly onto the pool form. They differ in the way the ingredients are mixed, but when applied correctly, the results are the same. These pools have a permanence and easily last for many years. An added advantage is the ease with which they can be replastered and renovated.

At Aquarius Pools, owned by Jerry Green, a variety of products are used to construct their pools. According to Green, each product has its benefits. Vinyl offers low maintenance and many shapes, but concrete is probably the most popular in high-end pools. If
built correctly, they are the most long-lasting.

Gunite pools, according to Shaver, can be made into any shape imaginable. Jeff Gordon even has one the shape of a race car! “We can come out and create a heart if you want us to,” says Shaver.

Maintenance Matters
Be sure to factor maintenance into the pool equation. Green stresses that maintenance is important, but it may be easier than you think. “Today’s pools have drastically changed,” he says. They literally take care of themselves. Over-the-top pools feature automatic cleaning equipment that use water, electricity and chemicals to ensure that the pool water remains constantly clean and usable.

Ginnie Vaughan points out that while there are many new features on the market to help maintain a pool, it is still important to keep an eye on it, no matter how automatic the system is. She also stresses the importance of using high-quality chemicals. There are differences in the various chemical products available in the market. Read the ingredients and compare chemicals purchased at discount stores to be sure that they are comparable to those purchased through a pool supply store. To cut down on expenses, pool owners sometimes turn filters off. This is a big mistake. Filters are designed to perform best when they run constantly. By cutting corners to keep maintenance expenses down, more problems may develop, causing additional expenses down the road.

More Practical Considerations
While homeowners’ policies cover most accidents and events around the home, be sure to check with your insurance agent about your coverage before starting any construction project. It is also important to consider your local building codes. Constructing a pool will require a permit, and most communities have specific requirements concerning pools, including proper fencing and other safety features.

Another expense that may not be figured into the equation is water. How will you fill the pool? Options include well water, municipal water or water trucked onto the site. Some pools must be filled immediately and require a large amount of water at one time. In this case, water must be brought in. If water will be taken from a municipal system, let the authorities know. Sometimes the cost of water will be waived if it is used to fill a pool.

When planning a pool construction project, give yourself time to do some research. Talk to professionals and carefully select a contractor. Just like food in the hands of a talented chef can be transformed into a culinary event, water in the hands of the right person can be used to create something of both beauty and comfort. Consider the following when searching for the right professional: Is the firm licensed and insured? How many years has the company been in business? Check on their reputation. Talk to people who love their pool. Whom did they use? Would they recommend them?

Be honest with yourself. Are you and your family the pool type? Do you like the out-of-doors and enjoy the sun? When you are at the beach, do you chose the pool over the ocean? If your answers are yes to all these questions, a pool may be the perfect addition to your home landscape.

Additional Resources

• Aquatech.com
Association of Elite Pool Builders
Take their dream pool survey to help prepare a wish list for your perfect
dream pool.

• APSP.org
Association of Pool and Spa Professionals
Click on “consumers” for information on choosing a professional, design ideas, maintenance tips and safety issues.

In fact, thanks to ever-increasing options for segmental retaining walls, their use in residential landscaping has exploded. The popularity of the outdoor living lifestyle owes much of its appeal to the versatility of SRW block. No longer the drab commercial workhorse, residential segmental walls are available in blended colors, distressed faces and multisized units. Features such as stairs, seat walls, outdoor kitchens and fire pits have brought the humble unit from sturdy landscaping block to a creative landscaping tool that makes a statement. These items not only add to your everyday enjoyment of your home, but increase your home’s value by creating usable living environments today’s homebuyers want.

If you are considering hiring someone for a residential segmental retaining wall project, there are a few key areas to address prior to beginning: choosing an installer, obtaining the required permits and selecting the proper materials.

Choosing An Installer
It is critically important to use installers who have been certified by the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) and have worked on projects similar to yours. Prior to moving forward with contractors, view their SRW certification letter from NCMA, review their project photos, and call references. Beyond that, ask questions specific to your needs and the land you are working on. Good contractors will be quick to answer direct questions, and even supply several alternatives to overcome your project’s obstacles.

Obtaining Required Permits
Permits may or may not be required for your work. If you are hiring a contractor, confirm permit acquisition responsibility and fees prior to signing a contract. Generally, permits are required on retaining walls taller than four feet in Virginia. It is best to confirm the exact requirements in your location as rules can vary by locality. Taller, larger projects may require a geotechnical plan; there are several geotechnical engineers in our area that can supply this service.

Selecting Required SRW Materials
Material selection can be fun, giving you the opportunity to express your style and creativity. The addition of a segmental retaining wall, outdoor living feature or just a simple SRW seat wall can improve the enjoyment you receive from your home. To brainstorm ideas for your yard, review as many project photos as you can from local installers. These idea-generating design models give you a better perspective of how products look once they are installed and can spur vision for your project.

There are a wide variety of products that can be used for your SRW materials. Most SRW units have a “built-in batter.” This means the units set back with each course, usually about an inch per layer. These are preferable on projects with radius turns, because the set back allows for the block to move from a straight line into a curve and not visibly protrude outward. Vertical walls work great for incorporating features like an outdoor kitchen, stairs within the SRW, seat walls, and for double-sided walls or fencing applications. Some wall systems allow for transition from set back to vertical. Check with your supplier or installer about this prior to selecting any materials.

Blended colors, aged faces and multiple sizes in a wall are popular facial features for SRWs. With improved aesthetics comes increased cost. Visually superior products cost more to produce and more to buy. But when you look at the total price for a project, the improved visual appeal of the higher-end products may not add as much to the final cost as you would think. The added appeal will benefit you while you enjoy your project and may pay dividends when you sell your home.

Basic Installation Steps and Tools
Successfully completing your project depends on starting the job properly. The initial step is to dig a proper footer and fill it to a depth of six inches with compacted stone. It needs to be deep enough to fully bury one course of SRW block; thus the footer will be at least twelve inches deep. Additionally, the footer needs to be at least two feet wide to allow for the one-foot depth of a typical SRW block and six inches in front and behind the units. This method encapsulates the units, creating a solid connection to the earth. It is also important to start at the lowest point and move up from there.

Next, clean drainage gravel must be placed behind the SRW units. This will allow moisture to pass from the retained native soils to a four-inch drainage collection tube. The perforated plastic tube is placed behind the wall at the bottom of the drainage gravel. The tube will collect and distribute the water that, if not addressed, could cause the walls to bulge and become deformed.

While this is a very basic description of materials and installation, it’s important to understand that all sites are different and may require other materials to do the job. Compaction equipment, levels, string line and excavation tools also may be needed to finish the job.

Incorporating a segmental retaining wall into your landscaping or outdoor living project can give you and your family hours of enjoyment. The added living area or additional flat usable space are often sought by buyers of both new and existing homes. SRW and outdoor living features can be wise investments that may pay dividends when you sell. More people today want to enjoy a home for its livability, lifestyle accessibility and curb appeal rather than bulk square footage. So get creative with segmental retaining walls and make a bold statement with your next landscaping or outdoor living project.

Mike Mosley is the director of architectural products for Boxley Block. Mike is one of only three instructors in Virginia accredited to teach and certify segmental retaining wall installers though the National Concrete Masonry Association.

P

Alas, many gifts from nature do require patience. In particular, one illustrious and desirable spring beauty that will force you to wait is the peony. Oh yes, this lush green creature that sways daintily in the breeze will make you wait all right. Love her as much as you like, and she will still hold back those plumes of petals for years. To make things worse, if you spoil her with fertilizer or water, she will only turn her back on you, dramatically lying down upon your lawn.

Chin up, though. Let that peony take all the time she needs to blossom, and you will see a display that is truly worth the wait.

Careful Planting Yields Best Results
There are more species, colors and scents of peonies than you could ever plant in one yard. So the easiest place to start if you’re planting peonies is to narrow things down by the bloom cycle. If you want to make sure your yard is filled with peonies in spring and into the summer, look closely at the tags on the containers when purchasing your peonies. They’ll be marked as early-, mid- and late-season bloomers, and ideally you should have all three in your yard. Blooms last on average about two weeks, and by mixing peonies, you ensure that you’ll have beautiful displays for up to six weeks. Another gift from this generous plant? It will bring color to your landscape long beyond the blooming season. Once the flowers of spring and summer have dissipated, the foliage will turn shades of red, purple and copper throughout the fall.

Choosing a home for a peony may be the most difficult part of raising one. Peonies can live for more than 100 years, but they don’t easily forgive you if you move them. When you pick a home for your peonies, make sure it provides full sun, lots of free space to grow, and soil with good drainage. Peonies need at least six hours, preferably more, of full sun each day. It is a rare peony that can put up with shade.

The best time to plant a bare root peony is in the fall. If you plant a mature peony in the spring, it will likely take longer to settle into its new home. To plant one, dig a hole about 15 inches deep and 15 inches wide. Add some compost to the hole, then place the roots down in the hole. Cover with dirt, making sure that the buds, or eyes, rest just two inches below the soil surface. Do not plant them any deeper or the peony will not offer any flowers. Gently press the soil down onto the roots to fill the hole with dirt, leaving no room for air pockets. Water thoroughly once you’ve completed the planting. If you plant multiple peonies, leave three feet or more between each plant to allow room for growth. Peonies, which reach 30 to 36 inches wide and 30 to 36 inches tall, need plenty of room so that air can flow through them. Without that airflow, they are at increased risk of developing a fungal disease.

And don’t forget, patience. Peonies can take up to three years to become established. They will bloom in the spring and early summer, but don’t expect to see spectacular blooms for a few years. And don’t try to rush your peony along by overfeeding or overwatering it. Peonies are for the patient gardener.

Low Maintenance, High Drama
Peonies are easy to grow and care for because they ask for so little. They ask merely for sun, compost, soil that drains well, and a bit of water. A peony only needs to be mulched once, during its first winter while it establishes itself. It requires either a 5-10-10 or 10-10-10 fertilizer mix, only once or twice a year. Once planted, you must resist the urge to pamper the peony with plenty of water and high-nitrogen fertilizer. That combination is guaranteed to upset a peony and fool you into thinking you have done the right thing. Make no mistake, a peony that gets lots of water and fertilizer will grow quickly. As a result, though, it will have weak stems and heavy leaves. When that happens, these plants spring up quickly and then keel over, because the weight of flowers and leaves is too great for the stems.

To help your peony reach its full potential—which is to say, give you massively huge blooms that drive neighbors wildly jealous—you’ll want to try your hand at disbudding or deadheading. To disbud a stem, leave the bud at the tip of the stem, called the terminal bud, and remove all other buds on that stem. This allows all the nutrients in that stem to go to that one bud. As soon as the flower has faded, remove it from the stem, snipping just below the flower.

Two of the biggest no-nos when caring for a peony are pruning and insecticide. Prune a peony, and it will not share a single flower with you next season. Remember a peony will stretch upward and out as it grows, so make sure you give it a home that offers plenty of room. As for those ants sucking on the sticky sweet nectar upon peony petals, leave them alone. The insects will not damage the blooms, but insecticide will. Some gardeners believe that ants help peony flowers open, but there is no evidence that ants help or harm a peony. Ants will only be interested in a peony for a brief time before they parade off, so it’s best to just let them enjoy themselves.

Peonies do need to be cut back  after the first fall frost. Cut all of the stems low to the ground and leave about three inches of stem. This will help protect the plant from fungal diseases. If you suspect an infection—signs include wilting and the shrub falling over—act quickly to prevent it from spreading. The most common threat is Botrytis blight, a fungal disease that thrives in damp conditions. It will cause the stems to rot, turning both the stems and buds black. If the plant is in bloom, the flowers are likely to turn brown and moldy. To save an infected peony, remove all infected stems and foliage, clear away mulch, and allow the soil to thoroughly dry.

Bring Your Blooms Inside
Southern tables yearn for vases overfilled with peonies, the grand dame of the garden. Roses are lovely and lilies are brilliant, but only the peony ages so beautifully. With blooms the size of a softball, peonies planted properly in your garden can supply rooms with color and a sweet earthy fragrance for decades. Each peony will bring with it a different scent—some strong, others faint. In order to have a successful peony display in your home, you do have to follow a few rules.

Creating your floral display must always begin with a sharp, clean hand pruner. It is best to select blossoms that have yet to open; they are least likely to have attracted ants, and they are also the most attractive in the home. Once you’ve brought them inside, the blooms will open wide and not fade like they might when they are outside.

Cut stems below the foliage at an angle. Aim to leave at least 15 inches of the lower stem still attached to the base of the plant. Once you have clipped the flowers from one plant, wipe the blade clean before moving to the next plant. This helps prevent the spread of disease and infection among the plants.

Be careful to remove only a third of the peonies from any one plant for display. Cutting more flowers can mean fewer flowers next season.

Don’t let ants dissuade you from a glorious peony display either. The key is to snip the flowers early, before the ants come. Remember they are attracted to the sweet substance on the petals; you just have to beat them to it. If ants have already appeared, cut the stem and place the flowers in a water-filled vase. Place the vase in the shade and leave it on the porch overnight. The ants will dissipate, allowing you to bring the blooms inside, unharmed and uninfested, in the morning.

Now that’s something worth waiting for.

Grow, grow, grow. That’s what all gardeners are praying now as trees and shrubs promise to bring new life to yards once again. Of course there are fertilizers and other plant foods for sale this season, but one of the best ways to stimulate growth is by pruning. As they say, “Out with the old, in with the new!”

Many plants go without this routine maintenance because homeowners lack knowledge on when and how to prune. Some are leery about drawing those shears on what they think is an unwilling victim. But it’s better to think of pruning as damage control—and tough love.

Pruning does wound plants, but “plants respond differently to wounding than do animals,” write Susan C. French and Bonnie Lee Appleton in their article on pruning on the Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) website. “In plants, damaged areas are covered by callus tissue to close wounds,” they explain. “Simply put: animal wounds heal, plant wounds seal.”

There are many benefits to plants when pruning is done correctly. Seasonal pruning can improve a plant’s overall health and even prevent personal injury and property damage for the homeowner.

With diseased and damaged parts removed from a plant, new tissue forms a barrier and can sometimes limit the spread of insects and disease, leaving you with less need for pest control. Pruning also helps control the size of a plant so that it doesn’t overcrowd others. In the case of trees, pruning can allow more air circulation and more sunlight in your yard to help other plants grow. Keeping large shrubs and trees away from utility lines is a must for safety, of course, and removing dead or low limbs is always a good idea, as the right pruning can reduce wind resistance in trees, according to VCE. Around walkways, it is always good to prune plants with thorny branches, or slithering groundcovers that could cause someone to trip.

When to begin, though? Well, just like raising children, it’s best to tackle a plant’s rough spots when they’re young, so they can rise to their full potential later on.

French and Appleton say it’s easier to shape trees and shrubs with hand pruners when a plant is young than to try to prune large branches later on with bigger tools. “As trees and shrubs mature, their forms may become unattractive. Pruning can restore vigor and enhance the appearance of these plants,” these experts say. But if time has passed you by and your plants are well out of the training stage, you can still prune effectively.

Become a Shear Genius on Pruning
Many trees, shrubs and groundcovers thrive in Virginia. Experts may differ on exact pruning times and methods, and the many landscape companies and garden centers in our area can help evaluate your specific situation. Here are some guidelines from VCE on a few of the most common plants that can be pruned here in the spring. For pruning calendars and more information on how to tackle different species, go to VCE’s website at ext.vt.edu.

CRAPE MYRTLE: The best time to prune these popular long-blooming summer trees is late winter or early spring prior to new growth. The worst thing you can do to a crape myrtle is to top it (a common mistake). Proper pruning technique is much like for any other tree or shrub. VCE says the first step is to cut out any dead or unproductive branches and any crossing or crowding branches in the center. Then make cuts in the direction of new growth. VCE explains, “The direction in which the top remaining bud is pointing will determine the direction of new growth.” Prune 1/4 inch above the bud, sloping down and away from it.

BUTTERFLY BUSH (BUDDLEIA): Because this bush blooms on new wood, it can become a monster if neglected. If you have a large area for it, and it’s not crowding out any other plants, then you may never have to prune at all.

BOXWOOD: VCE says boxwoods can be pruned from November through July. According to the United States National Arboretum website, thin boxwood with a bypass pruner. Reach inside about 6 inches and prune off the stem. Continue this until the small interior twigs become visible. When you are finished, about 10 percent of the outer branches should be removed.

AZALEAS AND RHODODENDRONS: VCE says there is little need for pruning these popular shrubs. But you can control their size and form with light pruning in May. For rhododendrons, remove the flower stems as soon as flowering is complete; break out only the dead flower cluster, not the young buds around its base. For azaleas, prune only when the shrub has lost its form. Pinch out the soft, new shoots of vigorous growing plants.

ROSES: Most serious rose gardeners know what an art it is to prune their prize varieties each year. But for the average grower, VCE suggests pruning in February and March, or July and August. Make cuts well below any diseased wood, and disinfect shears between cuts. Old stems can be removed to the ground yearly to renew.

Sharpen Up Your Pruning Tools
• HAND PRUNERS (BYPASS OR ANVIL): For stems up to 3/4 inches in diameter. Bypass: sharpened, curved, scissors-type blades that overlap. Anvil: straight upper blades that cut against flat lower plates. (Most experts recommend bypass pruners because anvils can crush stems as they cut, and the width can keep you from getting in far enough to make a close cut on narrow-angled stems.)

Mulch comes in a variety of materials and colors, and helps to protect both the soil and root systems; certain types even work to replenish nutrients in the soil. Your options for mulch come in two main varieties—organic and inorganic materials.

Organic Mulch Packs Nutrient-Rich Punch
Organic mulch comes from natural components. A disadvantage of organic is that it is not long-lasting, and may need to be replenished often. However, it will add nutrients to the soil through the process of decomposition. Different types include:

BARK OR WOOD CHIPS. Composed of bark and other small pieces of wood, wood chips or shavings, this mulch will give a manicured look to any garden. Various types of wood available are cypress, pine bark, waste wood, red mulch, and cedar.

COCOA BEAN HULLS. The delicious scent will keep you in the garden all day long. An aesthetic addition to flowers, this mulch also adds vital nutrients to the soil. It is recommended for use in sunny areas to prevent mold.

COMPOST. If you already have a compost pile, you’re a step ahead of the game. Use anything from yard waste—leaves, grass clippings, small twigs—to natural household items like coffee grounds, newspapers, and fruit and vegetable peels. Make sure your compost pile is aged and free of weed seeds. It is often used as the first layer, with a layer of attractive organic mulch—like bark—on top.

MANURE. Like compost, manure is primarily used as a first layer to provide nutrients. As long as it is rotted, it won’t stink up the yard, but it doesn’t get any points for aesthetic value; you may also want to cover it with a nicer-looking mulch.

Inorganic Materials Give Long-Term Protection
BLACK PLASTIC. This material is suitable for use with trees and shrubs, or in vegetable gardens that do not require regular fertilization. Plastic will keep the soil warm and block weed growth, air and water. To allow moisture in, holes can be cut in the plastic. A thin layer of wood chips is often used to create an appealing visual, but be careful not to overheat the soil with the added layer of insulation.

LANDSCAPE FABRIC. The fabric allows water and air to pass through to the soil while protecting against weeds. Like plastic, fabric can be topped with bark or wood chips.

ROCKS AND GRAVEL. If you are looking for a permanent addition to your landscaping, this may be the right material for you. This type of mulch is recommended for use around foundational plants, or areas that require good drainage. Although heavy to move, this option will keep the weeds at bay, especially when used with landscaping fabric.

RUBBER MULCH. The rock star of inorganic mulch, rubber seems to offer everything. It allows water to get to the soil without absorbing any on the way, insulates the ground better than wood chips, reduces weed growth, is a barrier to weed seeds, and comes in a variety of colors. The only thing rubber doesn’t do is add nutrients to the soil.

When deciding which material is right for you, keep in mind your mulching needs. The look of rocks might appeal to you, but if you are planting a small flower garden, cocoa bean mulch is a more suitable choice. It allows you to tend to the soil and adds nutrients to keep your flowers thriving. Is your landscaped area visible to neighbors and house guests? Choose a mulch that offers aesthetic value and easy upkeep. You also may need to use more than one material to achieve your desired effect.

Practical Matters
Before you mulch, take a few things into consideration:

• Remove all weeds, and water your plants before mulching.

• Make sure the soil has had time to warm. A rule of thumb is to wait until mid-to-late spring to begin. Use your prep time to hunt out the best prices in your area.

• Don’t overdo it; your plants should flourish because of the mulch, not suffocate from too much.

• The coarser the material, the thicker the layer should be. Aim for three to four inches of coarse mulch and one to two inches of finer mulch. Use as many inches as you would like over areas that will not have any growth.

With fresh mulch, you can breathe new life into your dormant landscape, and jumpstart your way into the warmer months.

For Lizi and David Gilkeson, home and business are one. As owners of The French Thistle, a fabric, upholstery and furniture store in Roanoke, they bring their work home with them. Their home is the perfect showcase for much of the beautiful merchandise that they carry in their shop.

Together the couple has just the right combination of talent to make their business work and create the home of their dreams. David’s background in business and sales works well with his keen interest in French and English antique furniture, cabinetry and restoration techniques. Lizi, a native of Great Britain, graduated with a fine arts degree from West Surrey College of Art and Design in Surrey, England. Here her emphasis was in sculpture. She explains she lacked the portfolio to be admitted to their painting department, but in the end, studying sculpture was very beneficial to her art because it provides a three-dimensional aspect to her work. She also studied textiles, and brings a passion for colors, fabrics and textures to both the store and her own home. A professional artist, Lizi has displayed her work at area galleries, her shop and throughout her home.

The couple purchased their Troutville home in 2002. Situated in a small development surrounded by farms and open space, the property looks out on Jefferson National Forest and is within steps of the Appalachian Trail.

The home was built in 1989 and had all the basic elements that the Gilkesons were looking for in a house. “When we started looking,” explains David, “I had my mother with Alzheimer’s [living with us], and together Lizi and I had four teenagers.” So a big house was in order. A first-floor bedroom was also a necessity.  “We loved this house when we saw it, and decided that this was where we could be happy,” says Lizi.

The front entrance of the classically styled brick home has been completely redone. “The house was screaming out to be Georgian,” says David. When the couple was traveling abroad, they found the exact entrance style that they had envisioned. They took a picture of it and showed it to their carpenter, Chris DeVellis of Versatile Renovator in Roanoke. He was able to duplicate the entire entrance, and replaced the door with one of a Georgian style. To complete the effect, the couple found the perfect brass lion door knocker in England as well.

Cosmetic changes, while not radical to the structure, have produced an air of refinement to the home. All the interior doors have been repainted using a faux technique David discovered at Monticello, where the doors are painted to look like mahogany. David taught himself how to do the faux work, and implemented the idea here. He adds this to a long list of talents that he carries over to their store. Another cosmetic change included refinishing the original dark hardwood floors with a lighter stain, achieving an overall effect of brighter rooms. Throughout the home, David also used decorative molding extensively. Crown moldings, chair rails and wall moldings transform plain and simple rooms and provide just the right ornamental touch.

In the entrance hall, the “Lewis” family tree is on display, created in 1930 by Sydney Lewis, an ancestor of David’s great grandmother. Lewis spent his whole life creating this amazing record, according to David. The tree traces the family back to Wales in 1635 and contains over 7,000 names. Also in the entrance hall stands a grandfather clock, another family heirloom which dates back over 300 years. Throughout their home, the Gilkesons have handpicked cherished heirlooms and found the perfect setting for each.

A charming front bedroom today serves as a guest room. Originally it was for David’s mother. Painted sky blue with contrasting white molding, the sunny room exudes cheeriness, creating an ideal environment for guests. The antique bed, made of iron, belonged to David’s mother when she was growing up.

A large living space that the Gilkesons call their family room exemplifies the couple’s talent and flair for decorating. Before they got their talented hands on it, the room was a plain rectangle with a large, unassuming brick-faced fireplace. By refacing the fireplace with molding and a new mantel, and adding built-in bookshelves, the room was transformed into an elegant living space. An armoire and cello take up one corner. Here, David explains, they will position their Steinway piano when it is returned following restoration.

This large room offers several small seating areas. An upholstered sofa and two chairs comprise one arrangement. The sofa is monochrome while the chair fabric boasts red and white floral design; beneath the arrangement is an Oriental carpet with red overtones. Two gilded antique chairs, also restored and reupholstered at The French Thistle, complete the sitting arrangement. Bright red contrasting pillows bring the setting together.

Here and throughout the entire house, the walls are covered with the wonderful artwork of Lizi Gilkeson. Of special note is a self portrait in the family room. David took his wife’s photograph and asked her if she would paint it. “Do I have to?” she asked. But Lizi did as she was asked, and the result is a stunning self portrait that truly lights up the room.

Another painting in the room shows an interesting perspective.
It was inspired by a carriage ride at Versailles, and portrays the back of a coachman driving a carriage down a long lane, and the back view of the horse. “I thought [the coachman] was charming, and I knew it could be a painting,” says Lizi.

Double doors lead into a small parlor that was at one time a bedroom. “This room was transformed,” says David. A loveseat and two overstuffed chairs face another miraculously reworked fireplace. This cozy space provides the perfect setting to enjoy afternoon tea. According to Lizi, while growing up, “Afternoon tea was very important. I was raised on it!” Of course Lizi’s paintings hang here as well, providing bright splashes of color. A charming crystal fixture hangs from the ceiling. The couple discovered the antique in Europe. Luckily they found two vintage wall fixtures right here at home that match.

The formal dining room offers the perfect setting for an elegant dinner. An antique china cabinet holds the couple’s collection of sparkling silver and glassware. Firm believers in using their fine china and silver every day, meals here are elegant affairs. The table is set with lovely old china and silver. Amber wine glasses and purple water goblets provide a delightful contrast. A cut glass bowl brims with fresh grapes and pears. Ornamental molding and an anaglypta centered on the ceiling with a vintage chandelier add more grace to the room than it ever had before.

Another of Lizi’s paintings hangs here, a still life called “Bread and Butter.” The draperies, from The French Thistle, feature billowing coral-red fabric cascading elegantly to the floor. Artwork painted by several other artists is displayed here, including pieces by Lizi’s mother and grandmother. Clearly, talent runs in this family!

The kitchen incurred a major renovation. It was entirely gutted; all the cabinets were replaced, incorporating granite countertops for work space and walnut counters over storage areas. Ideal Cabinets did the installations, and Wards Appliance provided the appliances. A major problem occurred with the installation of the stove: It would not fit through the doors! The only path to the inside that was large enough to accommodate the stove was through an airy screened-in porch off the breakfast room. However, there was no outside entrance onto the porch. The solution? Add another entry. The new steps, with their Chippendale railings, now provide entrée to the garden area and lower level patio. Once the garden is completed—plans include Italian and English gardens with terraces and a greenhouse—this access will be a real asset.

The Artist’s Retreat
Lizi’s studio, one of the most important rooms in the house, is situated upstairs. While this room may not be a showplace, it is here Lizi creates her works of art. “I love to paint!” she says. Here, natural light pours through windows, and easels and paint tubes are everywhere. According to the artist, she does not have time to take classes, but tries to spend one day a week painting.

Double doors lead to a large master bedroom suite. Over the past few months, Lizi and David have been concentrating their efforts here, what they would call a work in progress. Here, David has installed new molding and hardwood floors. The walls are painted a light French blue, and a four-post reproduction bed is covered with a floral spread with green and blue hues. Another refaced fireplace complements this room. An overstuffed chair, upholstered in just the perfect shade of green, is decorated with floral pillows. Another of Lizi’s paintings—this one a tree—hangs over the fireplace. Many of her works feature a single tree. “I am drawn to trees and really love the lone tree,” explains the artist. “It stands firm, tall and beautiful.” Adjoining the bedroom is a bath yet to be renovated. Plans for this room include using marble to evoke a European atmosphere.

Making the Gilkeson house a home has been a labor of love. “Every year we have done something,” says David, explaining their long-term game plan. They have prioritized projects, methodically going from room to room and project to project, repainting, restoring, improving and refurnishing. So what’s next for the Gilkeson home? “Nothing!” Lizi exclaims. But David quickly adds, “I want to build Lizi a studio.” Lizi explains that they are very busy with their store, and right now it takes precedence. Lizi says of their business, “We hope that we inspire people. We like to be facilitators for people who want to decorate their homes themselves.” For Lizi and David Gilkeson, home and business are one. In conversation, one moment their thoughts are on their home, and the next, they are on the store. Luckily for them, they can bring their work home with them, and the result is a beautiful place to live.

There sure is some ugly furniture out there.

Emily submitted a photo of a circa-1948 cedar hope chest she found at the local thrift store. With original clippings, stickers and inscriptions adorning the inside of the lid, Emily was “drawn to its charm right away” —even though the outside of the trunk was not so charming. The chest was in poor condition, with almost nonexistent protective finish, structural damage to the base, loose or missing veneer, and stains.

So, how did Dick Patch, owner of Astonish, and his team turn the chest from ugly to brilliant?

First, the chest’s original finish was stripped and thoroughly cleaned using a multiple-step process. Water damage was treated with a two-part bleach mixture to reverse the damage to the wood color. Next came the structural repairs. Previous repairs with screws and nails were reversed. The base was reconstructed using hot hide glue, which was the glue used in that period. Loose veneer was reglued with hide glue, and new veneer of the same species was cut and glued to fit the missing veneer. There were 55 veneer repairs.

To finish the chest, it was sanded with 220-grit sandpaper, and a seal coat of shellac was applied to reveal the stunning veneer character. Then two coats of lacquer were applied to protect it.

Emily contemplated how she could spruce up this thrift store find and give it new life without ruining it in the process; entering it in the contest was the perfect solution.

Emily is very pleased with the results of the Astonish restoration. “It turned out to be so much more than I expected it could be,” she says. “Before, I kept the piece in the corner not trying to draw attention to it, but now I want everyone to see it!”

Astonish Antique Restoration is Roanoke’s largest furniture restoration shop. Its three skilled craftsmen have a combined experience of 35 years. Owner Dick Patch has 30 years of experience with a degree in wood finishing, and has taken graduate courses from the Smithsonian Institute. See astonishrestoration.com for more information.