Be a DIY VIP
Online resources and communities can help conquer many projects
Even though it doesn’t always feel like it, spring is replacing winter, and I can’t wait. It’s time to get outside for fun and maybe a little bit of work, too. This is the time of year when many of us plan to spruce up the yard, plant a garden or tackle overdue home chores.
Whatever task you need to get done or hobby you enjoy, there are likely internet-based resources that can help. At Farmers Mutual and Federated Telephone, we see firsthand examples of how access to high-speed broadband empowers you to learn, plan and confidently execute projects.
Consider gardeners, for example. It doesn’t matter if someone is a beginner or a seasoned green thumb, they can use the internet to research plant varieties suited to their climate, find layout ideas for vegetable gardens and even order seeds and supplies online. YouTube tutorials provide step-by-step guides for building trellises, creating compost bins and improving soil quality. Websites like the Farmers’ Almanac and our fantastic state extension offices are also great resources that can provide planting calendars and pest management tips.
Even better, online communities let gardeners share advice and troubleshoot problems in real time. From identifying mysterious weeds to diagnosing yellowing leaves, having access to expert advice—or a crowd of helpful fellow gardeners—can make all the difference.
Or perhaps you struggle with keeping a lush, green lawn. Those never happen by accident. Fortunately, you don’t need to be a landscaping expert to achieve one. Go online to find lawn care schedules tailored to your region and learn about the right fertilizers, grass seed mixes and weed treatments. Online video tutorials show how to aerate your soil, reseed patchy areas and properly mow for healthy growth.
Tech-savvy homeowners can even use smart irrigation systems connected to Wi-Fi to control watering systems from a smartphone. These tools improve water usage and keep your lawn looking great, even during hot, dry spells.
There are plenty of other ways modern digital tools can make life a little easier. From fixing leaky faucets to repairing drywall, the internet has become a go-to resource for home repair solutions. With access to instructional videos, product reviews and downloadable manuals, you can tackle many common repairs.
While the internet can help you dream big about your spring projects, it’s important to make safety a priority—especially if your plans involve digging. Before you break ground for a new garden bed, fence or deck, call 811 to have underground utilities marked. It’s free. It’s easy. And it could save you from costly repairs—or worse, a dangerous accident.
Broadband internet has made it easier than ever to plan and execute DIY projects, but some tasks still require a little extra preparation. As you gear up for a productive spring, let the web be your guide—but don’t forget to make that crucial call before you dig.
Here at Farmers Mutual and Federated Telephone, we’re proud to keep our community connected and equipped for success, whether you’re planting tomatoes or building a new patio. Happy spring—and safe digging!