Attracting Hummingbirds in Your Garden

With the spring weather arriving some of our thoughts may turn to gardening.  Have you ever wanted to attract hummingbirds in your garden?

Hummingbird Plants in the Garden

With wings that beat up to 200 times per second and the ability to hover straight up and down, sideways, backwards, and even upside down, hummingbirds need a lot of energy.
Although hummingbirds will eat insects, most of that energy comes from the nectar of flowers, and you can invite these guests to dine in your garden by planting known hummingbird plants.

Seeing Red – Hummingbird Plants

One of the best ways to attract hummingbirds is to grow known hummingbird plants in your garden. You're not just limited to summer flowers. There are many trees, shrubs, vines, and perennial flowers that attract hummingbirds. They bloom during different months and can extend the seasons in which you will see hummingbirds in your garden. To attract your native hummingbirds, plant some native plants in your garden.

The plants most known as hummingbird plants are those with nectar-rich, red, orange, or red-orange tubular flowers. There are other flowers that attract hummingbirds, but flowers that are the brightest red are the most effective at capturing their attention. Old-fashioned, single-flowered blossoms, as opposed to double-flowered hybrids, are the best at attracting hummingbirds. The reason for this is that older plant species typically have more nectar, and it is easier for the hummingbirds to access than in double-flowered plant varieties.

Plan an Escape Route

When hummingbirds are feeding, they are vulnerable to attack from neighborhood cats and other predators like crows and jays. While feeding, a hummingbird's head can be deep inside a flower, and it may not see a predator approaching. For this reason, it is important to provide a variety of plantings that can serve as a means of escape.  A good way to offer protection against cats, for example, is to grow hummingbird plants that are at least 2 feet tall. Hanging pots of fuschias, geraniums, and red impatiens will also attract hummingbirds and allow them to feed safely.

Provide a Source of Water

Hummingbirds are attracted to birdbaths, but they are particularly attracted to the sound of running water. Fountains or any device that provides a spray or fine mist is best.

Start planning and attract hummingbirds in your garden this year, then sit back and watch these amazing creatures.


Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Giving Rooms a Larger Feel

Giving Rooms a Larger Feel

Regardless of the size of your home, it doesn't have to "feel" small. Below are some tips for how to play with colour to give your rooms a larger look. Have fun and take the challenge of creating a spacious feeling through paint, flooring and home décor.

Playing With Paint

There are many approaches to using paint to make a room appear larger, but one standard holds true: Choose light colours such as whites, neutrals or even pale pastels. The lighter your wall colour, the more light reflection you will get (both natural and artificial), giving your space an airy and roomier feel. You'll get the best effect from painting the entire room the same colour. However, if you must add a splash of color, consider painting an accent wall a soft, pale hue. Keep your ceiling colour white or a very light shade to further create the illusion of more space.

Flooring Options

To enhance that roomy feel, it's best to also choose flooring options in light shades. Light stains of hardwood, tile or carpet will cooperate with your wall colour to create a more dramatic, open feel. Lighter flooring generates even more light reflection for a bright, roomy atmosphere.

Furniture Selections

Maintain your colour scheme when selecting furniture as well, doing your best to stick to one colour. Choose minimal pieces that pair nicely with your wall and flooring selections. Select variations of similar hues while varying your textures. Solid colours or small prints are better choices for upholstery or throw rugs. Larger, busier patterns tend to make a small space look disorderly or even cluttered. Glass tables in your living or dining spaces are great options as they naturally establish a feel of a more open, unobstructed space.

Expanding the Look in the Kitchen

Again, stick to the monochromatic school of thought to enhance the visual space within your kitchen. Consider a cabinet colour that matches your wall colour, creating visual harmony while also inviting more light reflection into your space. Consider selecting counter tops in lighter shades, and keep the clutter to a minimum. Adding additional lighting will also aid in creating a brighter, roomier feel.  Glass cabinets or open shelving are alternative options that can create the illusion of a larger space. Keep them organized as clutter tends to counteract the goal of a roomy feel.

Other Tips to Consider

Adding mirrors is a fantastic way to aid in the dispersion of light throughout your home. They do a great job at adding depth to a space, which then gives that space a much larger feel.
Embrace any and all natural light. Keep window coverings to a minimum or use sheers, inviting as much sunlight into your space as possible. Keeping your wall décor to a minimum, selecting one stand out piece as opposed to many smaller ones, tends to make a room feel larger. Consider a minimalistic approach to décor in general, and keep your spaces organized and tidy.


You'll be amazed at the feeling of space you can create by keeping these simple, basic tips in mind when decorating your home.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct 519-495-1541
email rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Interior Spring Maintenance

Interior Spring Maintenance

With warmer temperatures on the way, refresh your home with an annual spring-cleaning.  Here are some ideas:

Test every ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) outlet in your home. To test, plug in a portable item such as a nightlight or alarm clock. Press the "test" button on the outlet – it should turn the item off. At the same time, the "reset" button should pop out. When you push the reset in again, power should come on once more. Consult an electrician for assistance or information.

Check each smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector in your house.

Clean your carpets. Carpeting can harbor millions of germs, bacteria, mites, and a variety of other contaminants. Even carpet that looks clean may be dirtier than you think. Perform a DIY deep cleaning or hire carpet cleaners to do it for you.

Test your basement sump pump if you have one. During spring's heavy rains, this item will help keep your basement dry; you don't want it to fail when you really need it.

Clean any ceiling fans. Reverse the blade direction to ensure it directs the air down, with the blades turning counterclockwise.

Dust exhaust fans such as those in the bathroom.

Check the door seals on your refrigerator and freezer.
Check the interior temperature with a thermometer. Also, pull out the appliance and clean the
coils on back. Dirty coils can lead to higher electric bills and appliance damage.

Depending on your home and situation, you may have other appliances and areas that need attention. Every spring, inspect your entire home, keeping an eye out for things that will help keep you comfortable and ready for the rest of the year.

Spring is also the most popular time to buy or sell in the real estate industry.  We would be happy to update you on the value of your home at anytime.  Give us a call!!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1514
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Spring-Cleaning and Home Maintenance Tasks

Spring-Cleaning and Home Maintenance Tasks

When warmer temperatures come, refresh your home with an annual spring-cleaning, including important maintenance tasks for the exterior. Not only will it give your house a "face-lift," it will make your home more comfortable and will help prevent costly repairs later.
Here are the essential tasks for outside your home.

Exterior Spring Maintenance

You can start your spring-cleaning and maintenance either inside or outdoors, according to your preference. Since some things take a little longer than others, don't feel like you must do it all in a day or even a weekend. Spring lasts several weeks!

Take a good look at your roof. Scan for missing shingles, uneven surfaces indicating damage, or other evidence that the roof needs repair.

Clean your gutters and check your downspouts. If you don't feel comfortable climbing a ladder, hire someone to do the work for you.

Inspect your home's foundation. Look closely to ensure leaks (usually indicated by damp or discolored spots) and cracks have not formed, and repair as needed. Consult a professional for large cracks.

Clean your chimney. If you burn wood in a fireplace or wood stove, a spring-cleaning attacks the creosote while it's fresh. If you're comfortable on your roof, you can DIY. Otherwise, hire a professional chimney cleaning service.

Wash your windows. Substitute a mixture of half vinegar and half hot water for professional glass cleaning products.

Switch out storm windows for screens, and doors as well. Mend any torn screens immediately to prevent small insects from entering.

Check porches, decks and other structures for signs of rot or damage. Repair as necessary. Use this opportunity to power wash and refinish patios, decks and porches if needed.

Schedule an HVAC system check and tune-up. Replace ventilation filters at the same time. Yearly maintenance and regular filter changes help extend your HVAC unit's life.

Turn on the water to outside faucets. Hook up water hoses and ensure everything works properly.

Check your siding or brick. Keep an eye out for pest damage, evidence of water leaks, holes or other damage. Repair as appropriate.

Inspect your sidewalks and driveway. Sweep clear of debris and ensure the walkways are level and safe for everyone.

Clean out your garage. Get rid of trash that has accumulated over the winter.  Sweep out dirt and debris. Look over the garage door, ensuring it seals well and any automatic opener is in good repair. Also check the garage door opener's safety sensors.

Spring is also the most popular time to buy or sell in the real estate industry.  We would be happy to update you on the value of your home at anytime.  Give us a call!!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1514
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com