Heloise

Dear Heloise: When I bring my plants indoors during the colder months, watering them can sometimes get messy. Using ice cubes to water houseplants can be effective for orchids. But most tropical houseplants do not respond well to this method, and the results depend on the room temperature.

While some people put ice cubes on the soil to slowly water their houseplants, others warn that this method can actually cause the plants to decline over time. But this method gives the plant time to absorb the moisture without flooding the pot. This slow-melt method also helps prevent spills and reduces the chance of over watering. Just make sure that the cubes rest on the soil — not against the plant’s stems or leaves, which can be sensitive to the cold. — Sally Vilmont, in Nebraska

MICROCHIPS FOR HORSES

Dear Heloise: I recently read about using ID tags for horses, but another option many horse owners may want to consider is microchipping. A veterinarian implants a tiny microchip under the horse’s skin, similar to those that are used in dogs and cats. The quick procedure usually causes very little discomfort.

Each chip contains a unique ID number that veterinarians, shelters, and animal control officials can scan. When scanned, the chip displays a number that helps officials locate the registry that stores the owner’s contact information. The American Animal Hospital Association also provides a universal lookup tool to help identify the correct registry.

Microchipping increases the chances of reuniting owners with lost horses and can help prove ownership if a horse is stolen. The procedure is relatively inexpensive and only needs to be done once. — Bill Garden, in Garden Grove, California

WHY PRINTED NEWSPAPERS STILL BRING JOY

Dear Heloise: Here in New Orleans, I feel fortunate to receive a printed newspaper every day, rain or shine. Instead of watching television news, I enjoy reading the Times-Picayune, an American newspaper published in New Orleans, as well as the Wall Street Journal with my morning coffee.

The Times-Picayune had a daily circulation of over 77,000 in 2019, and something is calming about turning the pages and reading the stories in order. I’m often tempted to jump straight to the sports section or the comics, but I resist and read the paper from front to back. In our home, we save the comics for last, like dessert at the end of a meal.

Even reprinted classic strips would be welcome. They bring a smile and help start the day on a cheerful note before I begin tackling my list of chores and errands. — Carolyn Wickstrom, in New Orleans

PET PAL

Dear Heloise: Beth was adopted at Christmastime three years ago, so my daughter named her Beth, which is short for Bethlehem. Beth loves to sit and watch our pet betta fish, Fanta. Fanta seems just as curious about Beth, and in this picture, he looks like he is swimming up to say “hi!” — Debra Cascio, via email

Readers, to see Beth and our other Pet Pals, go to Heloise.com and click on “Pet of the Week.”

Do you have a furry friend to share with our readers? Send a photo and a brief description to Heloise@Heloise.com. — Heloise

Send a money-saving or time-saving hint to Heloise@Heloise.com. I can’t answer your letter personally but will use the best hints received in my column.