As winter wanes and the first signs of spring emerge, it's the perfect time to start thinking about your garden. Late winter offers an ideal opportunity for planting trees and shrubs, setting the stage for a lush landscape. Louie's Ace Home Center is here to guide you through this process with practical tips and expert advice.
Late winter, just before the spring thaw, is a prime time for gardeners to plant. This season is particularly suitable for dormant bare-root plants like roses and fruit trees. They establish roots in cooler temperatures and burst into life as the weather warms. However, it's crucial to be selective with species; evergreens, for instance, may struggle to establish roots in winter's tail end. Prioritize species that thrive in your region's climate for the best results.
Proper soil preparation is key. Ensure your soil is well-aerated and well-drained before planting. While it might be tempting, avoid over-amending the soil. A moderate amount of compost and bone meal can enrich the soil without overwhelming your new plants. When digging the planting hole, keep it no deeper than the root ball and twice as wide. This provides ample space for roots to grow without being constricted.
When planting, gently place the plant in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the ground. For compacted soil, loosening it can facilitate better root growth. Be mindful not to plant too deep, as this can stress the plant and hinder its growth. Remember, the initial care you take in planting can dictate the future health of your trees and shrubs.
After planting, regular watering is essential, especially when the soil below the mulch and in the root ball feels dry. Mulching can help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. However, be cautious not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Consistent care in these early stages will pay off with robust growth in the spring and summer months.
As you plan your late winter planting, remember that a little preparation goes a long way. Visit Louie's Ace Home Center for all your gardening needs, from quality soil and mulch to a wide selection of trees and shrubs suitable for your area. Embrace this season of renewal and transform your garden into a vibrant, flourishing space.
If you’re a newbie to lawn fertilizer, then the numbers listed on the bag may seem like a foreign language when heading down an aisle of gardening supplies. These three numbers are known as fertilizer ratios, and by understanding what each number means, you can improve the appearance and longevity of your lawn.
Fertilizer is great for helping strengthen roots and promote new growth year round. Taking care of your lawn is important because the grasses commonly used can purify air and improve overall air quality, in addition to the fact that a nicely manicured lawn is aesthetically pleasing. Grasses are great at absorbing rainfall, preventing erosion, and purifies water for aquifers in the area.
Each of the three numbers listed on the front of the bag of fertilizer represents nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Together they are known as NPK ratios, and are indicated using their element symbols that you may remember from chemistry class. All three are essential elements in gardening products for growing a beautiful lawn.
Each one serves a different purpose in ensuring your grass grows green.
NPK ratios apply to all types of fertilizer, but there are certain specifications to follow for lawns and all of the different conditions the lawn may be in.
Our gardening experts suggest fertilizer should be put on your lawn two to four times a year. Resistance from pests, protection for the soil, and preventing pesky weeds are just some of the perks when taking care of your lawn with fertilizer from ACE Hardware. The fertilization process is cost-effective, simple, and environmentally friendly. Because of how low-maintenance lawn care can be, you can spend more time doing plenty of other fun outdoor activities this summer!
Here’s some of our ACE Hardware team’s top fertilizer recommendations:
https://www.acehardware.com/departments/lawn-and-garden/lawn-care/lawn-fertilizers/7232325
This fertilizer is one of our best selling options because it stops crabgrass at its roots and is safe for use on Bermuda grass. It’s a great fertilizer to use in post-winter lawn care routines, and is a trusted formula no matter what climate you live in.
https://www.acehardware.com/departments/lawn-and-garden/lawn-care/lawn-fertilizers/70555
Milorganite is produced from the nation’s oldest and largest recycling efforts. It’s fortified with iron for a longer lasting green. The slow-release formula can be used on trees, shrubs, or flowers as well.
https://www.acehardware.com/departments/lawn-and-garden/lawn-care/lawn-fertilizers/7002870
A quick greening, long lasting lawn is possible with Pennington and its premium blended fertilizer. With fast acting nitrogen for quick greening in addition to slow release nitrogen at 10.5% for extended feeding up to three months, the blend of fertilizer includes a boost of 5% iron.
At ACE Hardware, you can be assured that our hardware and garden supplies are top notch and in stock. With plenty of fertilizer choices for every budget, lawn, and gardening style, you can’t go wrong with keeping your lawn healthy and happy.
Be sure to visit Louie’s ACE Home Center for all your lawn care questions and gardening supplies!
While it’s too cold to actually start gardening in winter, this is the perfect time to start planning for your spring garden. And of course you could simply buy seeds, soil, and other gardening tools right before you decide it’s time to plant. However, planning for your spring garden in the winter will help you create the best garden you’ve ever had. You’ll be better prepared, better equipped, and more confident in your gardening abilities. So, check out some of these helpful tips for planning your spring garden in the middle of winter.
To get the most beautiful garden, you should start preparing yourself and your yard during the winter months. Start by assessing the weather you’ve had this past winter. Was it colder than normal? Did it snow more than it typically does in your area? Is it more mild than usual? All of these things may affect the longevity of your plants life and should be dealt with before you start gardening. If it’s especially cold this winter, you’ll need to take extra precautions to protect your plants from freezing temperatures.
Also be sure to assess the area you intend to plant your garden. Look for any damage to your yard that may need to be fixed before you start digging your gardening tools into the ground.
Gathering all of your materials, such as seed catalogs and gardening tools, will help get you excited about your future garden. Since it’s still too cold out to begin planting right away, having the tools you need before hand are a good way to start the process. Also keep in mind that seed catalogs provide a great advantage to gardeners. Using seed catalogs to find the plants you’ll use in your garden will usually ensure that you’re getting high-quality seeds. And don’t forget to stop by Louie’s ACE Home Center for all of your gardening tools! We have a great selection to choose from and our friendly staff is always happy to help our customers find the right tools for their projects.
Consider Using Cold FramesCold frames are very popular in areas, such as Reno, that experience severe cold weather. They’re transparent-roofed enclosures that are built low to the ground and help protect plants from excessive cold or wet weather. The transparent roof allows sunlight to enter while also effectively trapping in heat. The roofs can be taken on and off and are perfect for controlling temperatures and climate that your plant will have to endure. Essentially cold frames help the gardener extend their growing season.
A seed germination test will help you determine if the seeds you’re using for your garden will produce thriving, beautiful flowers and plants or not. To do this, start by taking a few seeds from the package and planting them in small pots. Next, place those pots in conditions that will most likely make your seeds germinate. Lastly, watch them as they grow to determine whether or not they grow healthy sprouts.
After all of the prep-work you’ve completed, you’re finally ready to start planning your garden and picking out your plants! This is easily the most fun part of the preparation process and will help to bring your garden to life - literally. Be sure to check the grow zone of the area you live in. This will help you determine which plants will do better in the type of living condition they’ll be in. This tool will help your garden thrive, and prevents you from having to buy more seeds and other gardening materials later on.
At Louie’s Home Center, we have a wide variety of gardening tools available. From soil and fertilizer, to shovels and rakes, we have just about everything you need to get the garden of your dreams. Our knowledgeable staff is always willing to guide you in the right direction when you come into visit. Connect with us today!
When it comes to taking on new DIY projects, timing is everything. It can make the difference between your project being a success or a total flop. For example, you wouldn’t want to start renovating your landscaping if there was snow on the ground because it would cause too many problems. Like this scenario, you could be faced with many issues by choosing to tackle a DIY project at the wrong time. So, take a look below to see when the best time of the year is to start your next DIY job.
The time in which you take on interior projects isn’t as dependent on weather inclemencies since your home shields you from the outdoors. However, weather can still affect interior projects in a variety of ways. For instance, tools or materials may cost less at a certain time of the year, and temperature often impacts the overall outcome of certain projects as well. So, take a look below at a few interior projects and suggestions for the best time to get them done.
Interior Painting: Fall/Early WinterInterior painting can really be done at any time, but the fall and early winter are the best times to refresh your home’s old indoor paint. Colder temperatures could help to cure your paint more quickly, but be weary of drastically low temperatures as they can affect the quality of the paint and prevent proper drying. Also, if you do decide you need some assistance, painting professionals are usually slower in the colder months and may even offer special deals during this time.
When it comes to installing new flooring in your home, the spring is the best time to have it done. That’s because hardwood floors don’t react well to hot and humid climates. These types of environments can cause the wood finish to cure too quickly which results in the sheen drying improperly. Instead, try installing floors when it’s a bit cooler out.
Kitchen updates such as painting, installing new cabinets, or redoing the countertops are best done in the summer months, but this may depend on your specific lifestyle. Because most people utilize their kitchens frequently during the holidays, winter isn’t a good time to start a major kitchen renovation. However, summer may be a good time to do this because you’re able to grill food outside and typically aren’t limited to only being indoors.
Exterior DIY projects need to be done during optimal weather conditions. If it’s snowing, raining, or freezing outside, your project will likely be ruined by the poor weather. In order to prevent an avoidable disaster, try to plan exterior projects around your climate. So, take a look below to see when is the best time to take on various exterior projects.
In order to have your deck finished in time to use it for the spring season, you should start building it by early winter. Fortunately, if you do need some assistance, contractors are less busy during this time of the year and you may be able to save money on materials such as wood. Because it’s generally pretty cold and wet during the winter months, most people don’t enjoy being outside too much, so you also won’t be disrupting any outdoor events you may have planned. And, believe it or not, the cold, cloudy weather you typically experience in early winter is perfect for helping pressure-treated wood dry and reduces the risk of warping or splitting.
You want to refresh your yard right before it gets too warm out. So, the best time to start a landscaping project where you plant shrubs, trees, plants, or grass, is in the spring. This will give your plants the best chance to grow and acclimate to their new environment.
Exterior paint is best applied in the summer months. The type of paint used for the exterior of homes perform better when there is less temperature changes between night and day. This will allow for proper drying to occur and results in a better appearance.
At Louie’s Home Center, our expert staff members can easily help you find the right tools and hardware needed to complete your project. Here, we’ll use our knowledge and experience to guide you in the right direction and get you through your project at each phase. Whether you’re looking for the best hammer or the best power tool, our team is here to help. Connect with us today or shop our products to learn more!
With the spring season in full bloom, gardening is becoming a common past time. Even more so for those who are self-isolating at home and want a beautiful garden to enjoy while they wait out the lockdown. While gardening can be fun and relaxing, not having the proper tools and materials can make the process less pleasant and even difficult or frustrating. In order to have a successful, peaceful gardening experience, be sure to get proper hardware and garden supplies to help you out. Take a look below at some of the gardening products every gardener should own, and come get yours from Louie’s ACE Home Center!
One of the most essential gardening tools you’ll use over and over again is gloves. Proper gardening gloves are usually made from leather or synthetic material such as nitrile. These gloves are durable and thick, and are designed to prevent thorns or sharp stems from causing injuries to your hands. So, you can see just how important gloves are when it comes to gardening. And remember, the type of gardening you’re doing, such as pruning or planting, will help you determine which gloves will work best for your project. Fortunately, our friendly staff is always happy to help you make the best choice.
Another product that avid gardeners swear by are clog/waterproof shoes. Clogs are quite common because they are easy to slip on and off, and are quite smooth, making them easy to clean. However, any waterproof shoe will be beneficial to someone working away in the garden. Beware, as you’re gardening your shoes are going to get wet and dirty, regardless of how hard you try to avoid it. So, be sure to wear proper footwear to prevent ruining a good pair of shoes.
If you plan on gardening often and in rough terrain, then a garden seat or garden kneeler could save your body a lot of aches and pains. Kneeling on hard surfaces or in dirt or rocks can take a heavy toll on your knees and other parts of your body. And continuously exposing your body to this sort of pain can have serious consequences later in life. Luckily, garden seats and kneelers are there to prevent such problems. They provide an adequately cushioned spot for you to rest your knees or bottom on so that you don’t have to feel the repercussions later.
Gardening usually requires a delicate touch and careful hands. Remember, your plants are living things and they need to be handled with proper care. Unlike your typical shovels and rakes which are often too large to use in a garden, ACE hardware garden hand tools are made much smaller and with a more specific purpose in mind. Any gardener should be equipped with the following hand tools:
Some other gardening tools that you must have are a wheelbarrow for transferring dirt and other debris, and a gardening tool belt or supply cart. A supply cart helps keep all your gardening tools organized and out of the elements for better storage and easy clean-up.
Some planting accessories such as edging, mulch and markers are crucial to a successful garden. Edging helps keep mulch and plants in one secluded area and helps prevent overgrowth and weeds from penetrating your garden. Also, edging can help give your garden and your yard a clean, polished look. Mulch is used to cover the soil of your garden and acts as a protective layer that keeps soil cool, moist and unharmed by weeds and pests. Also, mulch can be used to make your garden look more appealing and some mulches even give vital nutrients to the soil underneath. Lastly, consider using markers in your garden to label all the different plants and to keep track of their growing habits and needs. The markers we’re talking about are stakes you put in the ground that have a sign on the top which you can use to write down your plant information on.
Gardening would be nothing without the plants, so be sure to stock up on seeds and any plants that you may want to plant into the ground! Often, seeds and plants are separated into two groups; annual and perennial. Annual plants need to be planted annually, meaning with each new season, you’re going to need to replant the same plants if you want them back in your garden. Perennials, however, only need to be planted once and the plants will regrow on their own in the next season. So, be sure you know the difference between annual and perennial plants, and get the ones that will work best for you!
And lastly, be sure to gather an adequate amount of watering and irrigation supplies. Plants need water in order to grow and live, but too much water can be problematic as well. Watering hoses and nozzles with different spray settings are always recommended, but be sure to give your plants the necessary irrigation required to keep them healthy and thriving.
If you’re getting ready to spruce up your garden but need some supplies to get you started, head on over to Louie’s ACE Home Center! As Fallon’s hardware store specialists, we’re confident in our products and our ability to guide you through your next DIY or home project. So, take a look at some of our garden supplies, or connect with us to get some advice or help with your next project!
The first snowflakes of the year have fallen and, if you haven’t begun winterizing your sprinkler system, you need to. Split or ruptured pipes can cost you hundreds if not thousands of dollars to repair.
We have put together some easy, step-by-step instructions on how you can winterize your sprinkler system yourself. We recommend the same technique used in the northeast, the blow out method, for winterizing a sprinkler system.
This method gets all the water out of the lines and is an easy and effective way to winterize. You can get all the parts for this do-it-yourself project at Louie’s ACE Home Center.
Use an air compressor with an 80 to 100 cubic foot per minute (CFM) rating. Make sure the sprinkler system you want to winterize has a mainline for water of 2-inches or less. You can purchase an air compressor, or rent one from our ACE hardware rentals. We have all the hook ups as well.
Locate the air hose connections. Make sure you use a connection located after the PVB back flow preventer. In the Fallon area, homes built in the last 15-20 years have a back-flow preventer on the sprinkler system. If you don’t have one, crack the pipe and the sprinkler valve and connect the air hose there to assist you in winterizing the sprinkler system.
You can make your own attachment (a jig) and connect it to your irrigation system. We can help you locate the parts and make it. Jigs are made with a washing machine hose, cut to 18 inches, a quick coupling, and a threaded to bared connector to combine the coupling and the hose. Screw it into the existing hose bib.
Trace the pipe back or locate the main water meter for your house. Make sure no new water can flow into the lines.
Most systems have a drain plug or sill cock drain. Open the valve and drain it into a bucket. Allow the pipe to drain completely. Go outside and close the back-flow isolation valves. Open and drain the test cocks on the PVB.
Keep the valves closed and attach the air compressor hose to the fitting. DO NOT run a compressor with an open valve. It can lead to a damaged zone valve gate.
Start with the zone which is highest in elevation and furthest from the compressor and turn it on. Blow out each zone for two minutes. Do this until no water can be seen coming out of the heads. Repeat the process until it is dry.
Disconnect the air compressor and release any air pressure from the lines. Open and drain all test cocks on the PVB to make sure no water is left inside.
You do this to ensure any trapped water is gone from the upper areas of your system. Turn and leave these valves at a 45-degree angle to complete winterizing your sprinkler system.
If you rented the compressor from our ACE hardware rentals, don’t forget to return it in a timely manner so someone else can use it to winterize their sprinkler system. Happy winterizing!
Imagine spring cookouts, breezy air, and a lush, green lawn to enjoy it all on. In Fallon, Nevada, keeping a nice lawn can take a lot of work. Unlike other climates, it takes the use of sprinklers and regular upkeep to keep your grass bright and vibrant. With that comes regular maintenance, especially after the winter season. Luckily, at Louie's Ace Hardware, we have all of the lawn care hardware rentals that you need to have the yard that you've been dreaming of.
After the long winter, thatch can build up and prevent your grass from looking its best. When the dead grass that gets stuck between living grass and the soil is not able to receive proper air, water, and nutrients, your lawn can look less than stellar. At Louie's Ace Hardware, we carry all the lawn care hardware rentals you need to remove thatch and restore your lawn to its prime.
It's that time of the year again! Time to aerate your lawn to allow air, water, and nutrients to get to get to the grass roots. If you're lawn is looking dead and colorless, this is a great way to alleviate soil compaction. In dryer climates like Nevada, aerating can save your lawn. Stop by our hardware rentals department for all the equipment you need to get your lawn looking in tip-top shape!
Weeding or digging a garden by hand can be tedious and time consuming. That's where a rototiller comes in hand. These handy tools can make gardening a breeze. We carry them as a rental item, so that you can have the added convenience without the pressure to store them throughout the year.
A lawn roller can be great for erasing damage caused to your lawn throughout the winter. You can flatten ant and mole hills quickly, and make your lawn look flawless.
There's nothing that says spring more than a lush lawn. So what are you waiting for? Stop by to check out our ACE hardware rentals you may need for your lawn and garden this season. We make lawn care and other hardware rentals easy and affordable, and our knowledgeable and friendly staff are ready to assist you. Want to inquire about our hardware rentals? Give us a call. We hope to see you soon!
A beautiful, verdant lawn is the focal point for many gardens. Images of lush expanses of cool grass often feature in gardening magazines. However, maintaining a lawn to be proud of is significantly harder to do in northern Nevada’s desert climate.
Never fear though, it is possible! We’ve put together a list of handy hints about how to keep your lawn looking lovely throughout the summer months. Louie's Home Center offers ace hardware rentals such as batchers, aerators, high-weed mowers, and weed whackers for lawn care.
Know The Best Time To Water
This handy leaflet recommends watering at night or during the cool morning hours to minimize evaporation. It’s best to avoid the peak water consumption hours of 4 - 9 p.m.
But how often should you water? This depends on the weather, the soil and the turf type. However, a good rule of thumb is not to water more than once every three days during the summer. This will encourage your lawn to develop a deep root system. A long soak two to three times a week is definitely better than a short, daily soak- that will just create a shallow root system.
To figure out how much to water, you can check out www.wateruseitwisely.com for a helpful guide.
2. Make Your Water Count
Water is a precious resource, and too often around Reno we see people’s sprinklers watering everything but their lawn! Invest in a decent adjustable sprinkler that suits your lawn shape and size. This will save you money and ensure that the water is being directed where it's needed.
3. Let Your Lawn Breathe
Did you know that lawns need oxygen as well as water? It’s important to keep them aerated, which lets air circulate and prevents roots from getting compacted. It also makes your lawn much more efficient at absorbing that precious water!
It’s best to aerate the day after you’ve watered, so the ground is a little softer. This page recommends pushing a garden fork into the ground at about six inch intervals. However if you’re lucky enough to have a large lawn, it’s probably best to hire an aeration machine.
4. Feed Your Hungry Lawn
Regular feeding with a good fertilizer is essential for proper growth and a good green color. However be careful- an over-fertilized lawn will require more water and more frequent mowing. More is not necessarily better, so be sure to carefully follow the packet instructions!
The Desert Lawn Care Guide recommends using slow release fertilizers, as they release nutrients more efficiently and can be applied less frequently. It’s best to fertilize in the early morning or evening, then water thoroughly.
5. Mow At The Right Height
Proper mowing is crucial to maintain a healthy lawn, but don’t overdo it! A lawn cut too short requires more water. We recommend raising the cutting height of your lawnmower during summer to keep your lawn looking its best. That way, the grass won’t dry out as quickly in the hot sun and the longer blades of grass will better protect the roots.
Of course, a top quality mower is really important too. The Craftsman 6.75 Torque Rear Bag Push Mower is a real deal at $239.99 instore. With five point height adjusters with 1.1″-3.4″ range, it’s the perfect option to ensure you’re mowing at the right height.
6. Accessorise Your Lawn
After you’ve gone to all that trouble of ensuring your lawn is healthy and beautiful, you’re going to want to show it off! The Catalina six piece resin wicker bar garden furniture set with umbrella will look beautiful in your garden, and will provide a lovely shady spot from where to admire all your hard work. What’s more, it’s currently on special at $299.99- that’s $100 off!
You could also create some beautifully ambient evening lighting for summer nights in the garden, by placing tea lights in Mason Jars. We have them available in packs of twelve for just $12.99.
So there you have it: our top tips for keeping your lawn looking lovely through the Nevada summer. Why not try taking before and after pictures of your lawn so you can compare the difference? And if you have any lawn tips of your own, we’d love to hear them. Be sure to check out Louie's Home Center for all of our lawn care ACE hardware rentals. Happy gardening!
When it comes to lawn mowers, there are a surprisingly large number of options available. Mowing the lawn can be a pain, so when it comes to choosing your tool it is important to choose the one that can help you tackle your yard the best.
Electric and gas mowers each have their own benefits that largely depend upon the type of yard you have, your personal choices, costs, and the level of maintenance you’re willing to take on.
When you think of lawn mowers, it’s likely that a gas mower is what first comes to mind. These mowers provide the power needed to easily tackle tough grass and mow larger areas without troublesome cords or having to re-charge a battery. A little gas can go a long way! Gas mowers also can be more durable and long lasting in comparison to some electric models.
If you’re looking to be environmentally friendly, a gas powered mower is not the top option as it emits carbon monoxide and dioxide into the atmosphere. They also tend to be much noisier than electric mowers. Due to the additional mechanisms and pieces, gas mowers tend to be heavier as well.
A popular alternative to gas lawn mowers, electric mowers a great option for those looking to avoid some of the downsides to using a gas powered tool. Not only are electric mowers quieter, you also avoid the frustrating pull-to-start process of turning on a gas mower. Electric mowers also don’t require sparkplugs or fuel filters eliminating the additional accessories needed with gas powered mowers. While they can be pricey up-front, electric mowers also can become cost effective over time.
Despite these benefits, electric mowers are not the best option if you have a large area to cover because they either come with cords or rechargeable batteries that last for only about an hour. They also can be dangerous when used in wet conditions as the electrical components can cause electrocution if they come into contact with water. An electric lawnmower isn’t the best choice for lawns with tough grasses or for someone who may wait for their lawn to look like a jungle before taking out the mower.
Looking to upgrade your mower? Keep an eye out for Louie’s ACE Home Center’s “cash for clunkers” program this September! If you need other lawn care equipment for a short period of time, check out our ACE hardware rentals.
If you’re a newbie to lawn fertilizer, then the numbers listed on the bag may seem like a foreign language. These 
three numbers are known as fertilizer ratios, and by understanding what each number means, you can improve the appearance and longevity of your lawn.
Each of the three numbers listed on the front of the bag of fertilizer represents nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. These are essential elements in growing a beautiful lawn. Together they are known as NPK ratios, and are indicated using their element symbols that you may remember from chemistry class. Each one serves a different purpose in ensuring your grass grows green.
NPK ratios apply to all types of fertilizer, but there are certain specifications to follow for lawns and all of the different conditions the lawn may be in.
Be sure to visit Louie’s ACE Home Center for all your lawn fertilizer questions and needs!
