When a couple had rotting oak trees removed from their front yard, their shade plantings took the brunt of the sun. Luckily, landscape contractor Jenn Nawada knew just what to do when she arrived to help them out. By repurposing some of the existing plantings, introducing some full-sun-loving plants, and pruning back some overgrown shrubs, the three were able to completely transform the front yard.
Next, we sit down with heating and plumbing expert Richard Trethewey as he tells us why he loves teaching so much. Richard tells us how he likely caught the teaching bug from his father. Richard’s dad felt it was best for the industry to pay it forward, landing on the original This Old House productions to show the industry how plumbers work. Since then, Richard has continued educating and sharing industry knowledge with homeowners so they have a better understanding of how the industry works, how to hire contractors, and how to make the best decisions for their homes.
Finally, we join host Kevin O’Connor as he and Richard head to RST’s new HVAC education facility. Once a mill building, the building has been renovated and repurposed into an education center, training facility, and showroom for the HVAC industry. Richard shows Kevin how the team at RST designed the building to showcase the latest technology and equipment, and the two discuss how Richard hopes the facility will continue his legacy after he leaves the industry.
How to Replace Grass with a Garden Bed
Landscape designer Jenn Nawada helped a couple rethink their front yard after two removed trees changed the shade pattern. Jenn knew just what to do, arriving with a plan to reuse some plants, cut others back, and plant new sun-loving plants that would thrive in the front yard.
Where to find it?
To transplant plantings, use shovels to dig down around the root ball of the plant.
To expand a garden, start by laying out your desired new bed line. You can use rope or a garden hose to figure out the shape that’ll work best. Use spray paint to mark your new bed line. Once your lines are marked, use a motorized sod cutter and cut on the marked line. Remove the sod by raking the cut top layer to expose the soil.
After adding compost to the soil, rake it out and till it into the soil using a rototiller.
Plantings selected for this project:
Gingko ‘Chi’ Tree
Japanese Yew ‘Emerald Spreader’
Gracillimus Maiden Grass
Japanese Maple “Crimson Queen”
Gilliam & Sons Landscaping, Inc. and Molinari Tree Care provided expert assistance with this project.
Richard’s Passion for Teaching
Richard Trethewey has always had a passion for teaching. He has explained concepts and new products for decades, and he’s driven by that moment when people “get it.” That passion was handed down from Richard’s father, Ron.
Touring Richard’s HVAC Showroom
About a year ago, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey and his son Evan started renovating an old mill building. Their goal was to turn it into a state-of-the-art educational and showroom facility. Today, Ask This Old House host Kevin O’Connor will visit RST Thermal in Fall River, Massachusetts, to learn more about this unique location.
Where to find it?
Original Air Date: Apr 25, 2024, Season 22; Ep. 21 23:42
Products and services from this episode
- Expert assistance:
Gilliam & Sons Landscaping, Inc.
Molinari Tree Care - Plumbing showroom: RST Thermal