3-19-26-Jenn Nawada INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Jenn Nawada, a landscape contractor for the PBS programs “This Old House” and “Ask This Old House,” will appear at the Flower and Patio Show in Indianapolis this week. Nawada, founder of Nawada Landscape Design, Inc., is scheduled to give stage presentations Friday and Saturday. During her appearances with emcee Terri Stacy, Nawada will share tips for creating functional and attractive outdoor spaces. With more than two decades of experience in landscape design and construction, she is known for an environmentally responsible approach to residential landscaping. Nawada said the start of spring is an ideal time to begin seasonal preparations. She recommended starting with basic maintenance such as cleaning tools and clearing yard debris. “You wanna get out your tools and clean everything off and then just start doing your initial cleanup in your yard, maybe get a pressure washer, get off some of the mildew of your deck or your patio,” Nawada said. For those planning gardens, Nawada suggested preparing beds or starting seeds. While she noted that planting in her home region of Boston typically occurs around Memorial Day, she encouraged Indianapolis residents to begin planning now. She said she is looking forward to visiting the city and observing local plant life. “I’ve never been to Indianapolis, so I am excited to meet the people and see what the whole area is all about,” Nawada said. “See what kind of plants you have, a similar planting zone.” Nawada emphasized the importance of understanding a landscape’s specific needs before beginning any project, including a plant’s sun, shade and size requirements. She also recommended homeowners conduct a soil test through a local extension service rather than applying fertilizer without guidance. “A great thing to do is a soil test. You can send it to your local extension school,” Nawada said. “Some people just get a bag of fertilizer and chuck it on, and you sometimes don’t necessarily need it, or you might need one particular thing. So try to inform yourself before doing things. You’ll save money and help the environment as well.” Beyond landscaping advice, Nawada discussed her work on “This Old House” and “Ask This Old House,” describing the shows as a collaborative effort among professionals who each run their own businesses. She said the programs aim to educate viewers on home improvement skills, from fixing drainage issues to repairing hardware. “We get to do what we do,” Nawada said. “Everyone on the crew has their own company, and we come together on the show to collaborate and teach. It’s fun.” For more information, visit www.indianaflowerandpatioshow.com. ...read more read less