OK, I started using 1 gal milk jugs because aeration in 5 gal buckets with one, or four hoses (as I use) was hit and miss. It is imperative to get lots of O2 to the critters. Using gallon jugs, I brew 2 of them each day...each with 2 aquarium air pumps (2 hoses each). These supplies more VERTICAL aeration (which more effectively affects the growing biology). Because it is so easy to keep it going continually, I brew those 2 gallons of tea EVERY DAY for a few days each week depending on the weather forecasts and so forth. Basically, I deliver fresh-brewed tea to my plants/soils about 5 out of 7 days each week. When I get bored with it, I put the procedure on hold for a few days. Advantages: Less clean-up with continual brewing, routine-like 20-minute procedure. Don't have to spend much $$ on pumps to get proper amounts of O2 dispersed properly. Disadvantages: none. Getting more O2 to the entire brewing biology is my main concern. After the routine becomes ROUTINE, it all makes a lot of sense.

Thank you for this bPath. I am not a very good thread starter. You popped into my head 2 days ago April. Hope things are going well!

Amazingly I got notification in my email that she wrote back. Of course, I can't access it on houzz, but I CAN access it through my email. I am running out but she said she will post in a bit- she said she just landed back in Israel and once settled a bit will reply. She thanked everyone for asking about her. I don't have much more to add but I am so relieved to hear from her. I guess she'll be posting here one of these days soon. :)

Judi, thanks so much. I don't think I want shades, not that they would be great to block the McMansions going up, but our trees block pretty well for three seasons and I do love the light. I do appreciate the thought nonetheless! Come to think of it, they could be great for cooler evenings come fall and even if we have a mild winter which is often the case recently. So thank you! Matinca, I grew up with a screened porch, too. Such delightful memories. I am living the dream! Thank you-come east and you can relive your childhood along with me! Thanks, kitchenwitch. I am pretty happy with it. ;-) Carol, Thank you! It is just right for us and I like having room for relaxing and for dining. jab, yes, it is so restful. We have lots of birds, so I sit out there and read and listen. A balm for my soul. As to painting the floor-never under consideration.-you are right about the chipping. With a 90-lb. lab mix and three granddaughters (5-year old and twin 3-year olds, a painted floor would lood awful in about a week! Ha. It is Millboard (outlive.info). Needs no sealing, refinishing or anything. Just wash with soap and water maybe once a year or as needed. Good for two old people who would never keep up with lots of maintenance. I was considering painting the posts and rafters. The consensus here seems to be leave them as they are and I agree they are not intrusive, so I will go with the majority opinion. Yay. My husband, however, has painted the supporting posts under the porch black and the wooden parts of the steps black (the treads are the same Millboard. It looks fine. I remember someone here way back when suggested black and it does pretty much disappear (sort of). The black sets off the plants I have started putting in next to and under the porch. I will try to get a photo tomorrow.