Don't apply fertilizer to your lawn. The old lawn-care guidelines from the University of Minnesota called for two fall applications, one in early September and one in late October. But new research has shown that a single application in September is best. Why? It's been proven that when fertilizer is applied late in fall, most of the nitrogen never gets to the grass. Instead it leaches into groundwater or runs off the surface of the soil, where it can pollute lakes and streams. So save yourself the work and save your fertilizer for spring. CONNIE NELSON
FURNISHINGS FOR SALE
For bargains on designer furnishings, check out the ASID Sample Sale starting Thursday. The annual sale at International Market Square (Glenwood and Lyndale avenues in Minneapolis) features 50 to 80 percent off one-of-a-kind pieces. During the sale -- which runs from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday -- shoppers can schedule free, 30-minute appointments with a designer. (Please bring a basic floor plan, room dimensions or pictures of your space.) To take a sneak peek at some of the sale items, log onto www.facebook.com/ASIDSampleSale.
CONNIE NELSON
WE SPOTTED IT
BrylaneHome sized up the market and launched a Plus Size Living Catalog of home products. The more than 400 products offered include capacious indoor and outdoor furniture, oversized bedding and healthy living items. Items range from an extra sturdy airbed (600-pound capacity queen size) and extra large office chairs to shoe stretchers and extra-wide skirt hangers. www.brylanehome.com.
MARTHA BUNS
CONTEST OF THE WEEK
Is your dated living room begging for a modern makeover? AllModern.com and John Gidding, the star designer on HGTV's "Curb Appeal: The Block," have teamed up for the Unleash Your Chic Side Challenge. They're searching for the homeowner who most wants to rid his or her living room of "frumpy furniture" and go mod. The grand prize winner will get a $25,000 thoroughly modern living room makeover, with furniture and accessories from designers such as Gus Modern, Herman Miller and Missoni. Second- and third-place winners will receive $2,000 and $1,000 (respectively) worth of modern accents and accessories. To enter, go to www.allmodern.com/chic and briefly describe how a modern living room makeover will help you "unleash your chic side." Entry deadline is Jan. 31.
LYNN UNDERWOOD
