8. Keep a backup supply of detergent, softener and stain remover. When you open last one, add it to grocery list. Laundry items are so expensive it pays to stock up whenever there is a sale.

9. Pick up a good stain remover chart and POST it in laundry room.

10. Have a designated place for items which need mending. Every week or month, mend them or drop them off at seamstress.

11. Hang a bag in your closet or in laundry room for dry clean only items. Set up a routine to drop off and pick up on certain days each month. Some dry cleaners will even deliver.

12. Keep a small basket in laundry room for "found" items such as money and buttons. Use another one for mate-less socks since they will probably show up next time.

The way you first plant your rose bushes is also of paramount importance. The commonest mistake is planting them too high. The crown of your plant should be covered with about 1-1/2 inches of soil. While planting too shallow is a problem so is planting too deep. A happy medium will insure proper plant growth. Fall planting is preferred to spring planting. After first killing frost, mount soil around plant for protection.

Rose plants should be pruned before planting and every year. Pruning is best done in early Spring. Follow-up care with careful note of disease or insect infestation will allow you beautiful blooms and healthy plants year after year. If a problem occurs, treat it as quickly as possible. Also deadhead any dead flowers or faded blooms. This gives added strength and vitality to new growth.

A bouquet of roses in varying colors from your very own garden will take their breath away. Their scent will fill your home and their beauty will be noticed by everyone who has opportunity to see them. Try growing roses and you will be most pleasantly rewarded.

ENJOY !

©Arleen M. Kaptur 2002 May