Q: Is there a recipe or method to use to keep newspaper articles from turning brown and crumbly?
A: Newsprint is highly acidic, and it deteriorates over time. You can buy sprays or solutions that raise the pH level of the paper and slow deterioration. They're available from archival supply companies and sometimes from craft stores and scrapbooking shops.
A few brands are PaperSaver, Bookkeeper Deacidification Spray and Krylon Make It Acid-Free!
It's a good idea to scan important articles so you can keep digital copies. The originals should be kept in acid-free surroundings and stored in the living area of the house — not in places like the basement, attic or garage, which may be too dry or damp. Keep articles away from fluorescent light, sunlight and the possibility of water damage.
WHAT'S NEW: GET VACATION FROM WATERING
A plant treatment called Vacation helps your plants survive without watering while you're away.
The product, from Natural Industries, is an anti-transpirant that causes plants to go dormant temporarily. Water your indoor or outdoor plants with a solution of Vacation and water before you leave, and the plants can survive up to two weeks without water. Plants in bloom should even stay that way, the company says.
Rainfall or watering will eliminate the effects of the product immediately.
The product is made from a plant extract and is safe for people and pets. It can be applied to ornamental plants, vegetables and herbs.
It's available in our area at Gale's Brunswick Garden Center, as well as from online retailers, including High Country Gardens, Nature Hills Nursery and Blooming Impressions. Information about the product is at www.naturalindustries.com.
ON THE SHELF: DECORATE HOME ON SMALL BUDGET
Who doesn't love a cheap decorating idea — or a few hundred of them?
Better Homes and Gardens supplies the inspiration for penny-pinching decor face-lifts in "501 Decorating Ideas Under $100." The book is stuffed with creative projects, clever reuses and other suggestions for creating a signature style on a budget.
You'll find ideas for dressing up tired furniture, creating eye-catching artwork, reusing flea-market finds and otherwise putting a fresh spin on your stuff. Each idea is accompanied by a photo, and instructions are offered when they're needed.
The book sells for $19.99 and comes with a one-year subscription to the magazine.
Have a question about home maintenance, decorating or gardening? Akron Beacon Journal home writer Mary Beth Breckenridge will find answers for the queries that are chosen. To submit a question, call her at 330-996-3756, or send e-mail to mbreckenthebeaconjournal.com. (c) 2010, Akron Beacon Journal (Akron, Ohio). Visit Akron Beacon Journal Online at www.ohio.com/. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.