To our readers:

In an effort to expand service to householders, we are planning coverage of home repair and upkeep in periodic illustrated articles instead of the Home Fix-up column that has appeared here on Fridays. With the discontinuance of this column, we can no longer invite, or reply to, individual questions. Many thanks to Richard A. Kent for presiding over the column and to the hundreds of readers who sent thoughtful inquiries and responses in the past. Meanwhile, beginning next week, ``Ask the Gardeners,'' by Doc and Katy Abraham, will appear on Fridays instead of Tuesdays.