Clara Jensen

I didn’t think I’d need shade cloth in Colorado—until my tomatoes started drooping in the midday sun. Turns out, local gardeners swear by it for …

August in Arkansas can be brutal, and I’ve definitely lost a few perennials to the heat before I knew better. Some plants just need a …

I thought I missed my chance, but turns out there are still plenty of plants you can direct sow in Virginia right now. I’ve done …

Michigan gardeners know that working with clay soil takes some patience—but they’ve found flowers that don’t just handle it, they thrive. I’ve watched these hardy …

Florida homes often feature lush greenery that feels like a breath of fresh air—but some of those popular houseplants can actually be toxic. I’ve seen …

Oregon gardens have a way of feeling like secret hideaways, and it’s not just the misty mornings helping out. Locals use simple, creative touches that …

Aloe plants might seem tough, but they’ll drop hints when they’re thirsty—and it’s easy to miss them if you’re not paying attention. I used to …

If your tomatoes are stuck green and stubborn, there’s probably something you’re doing that’s holding them back. I didn’t realize how much little habits—like overwatering …

Some yard staples in California might not be welcome much longer, and honestly, it’s kind of wild. I’ve seen neighborhoods swap green lawns for gravel …

Mint might seem like the perfect easy plant for Florida yards, but it can quickly take over if you’re not careful. I’ve seen it sneak …

Oregon’s wooded corners are perfect for tall, shade-loving perennials that add drama without demanding much sun. I’ve planted a few favorites that tower gracefully and …

Some plants are more than just pretty faces—they’re secret weapons against garden pests! I’ve planted a few of these around my veggies, and let me …

Let me share a little gardening secret with you — there are some perennials I just can’t resist cutting back during summer. It’s like giving …

I’ve been through the mosquito wars—itchy legs, buzzing ears, ruined evenings. But good news: there’s more than one way to show those pests the door. …

Every time I see these in full bloom, I can’t help but stop and stare. They’ve got that wow factor that makes a garden feel …

Lawn care in California isn’t just about mowing and watering—there are rules, and some might catch you off guard. I thought I was doing everything …

Mowing the lawn in Texas isn’t just about keeping things tidy—it’s practically a way of life. But even the most seasoned weekend warriors might be …

In Oregon, where the rain keeps everything growing—including the weeds—finding tough, low-maintenance plants is a total win. I’ve planted a few of these hardy perennials …

Tree roots in Maryland yards aren’t just in the way—they’re part of the story your landscape tells. Instead of fighting them, why not work with …

New Mexico gardeners know how tricky moles can be, tunneling through your yard like tiny underground architects. Luckily, nature has a clever way to keep …

Raccoons showing up in your Georgia yard might feel like a problem waiting to happen, but maybe it’s time to pause before rushing to kick …

Some yard features seem harmless until you realize they’re practically rolling out the welcome mat for bugs. I found out the hard way after a …

Summer’s the perfect time to turn your backyard into a place you actually want to spend time in. I’ve tested out everything from quick weekend …

Some backyard visitors are just passing through, but others are signs you’re doing something right. I’ve spotted plenty of critters over the years—some expected, some …

You don’t need a backyard to grow your own food—just a sunny windowsill, a few containers, and the right plants. When I first started gardening …

When the heat kicks in, gardens can go from thriving to struggling fast. I’ve had my fair share of wilted leaves and sunburned veggies, but …

Some backyard upgrades seem harmless—until they spark complaints, fines, or full-blown legal headaches. I’ve seen neighbors fall out over things as small as a fence …

Some garden mistakes don’t show up until it’s blazing hot and your plants are crying for help—I’ve been there. The layout that seemed fine in …

Spider mites used to drive me crazy—until I tried diatomaceous earth. It’s one of those simple fixes that actually works, and I wish I’d known …

Roses aren’t just for looks—they’re like magnets for bees, butterflies, and all kinds of pollinators that keep your garden buzzing with life. I’ve picked out …

Windows can be a sneaky hazard for birds, and I’ve seen firsthand how heartbreaking it is when they accidentally collide. Bird-proofing your windows doesn’t have …

Creating a bird garden is one of the most rewarding things I’ve done—it’s like bringing a little nature show right to your window. With just …

You’d be shocked to find out how many toxic trees are sneaking into yards all across the U.S., sometimes looking innocent but causing all kinds …

I used to toss twigs into the compost without thinking twice—until I realized how many fun and useful things you can make with them. From …

It might seem like the sunny spot is perfect for a birdbath, but it’s not always the best choice for your feathered visitors. I learned …

Keeping your gardening tools clean doesn’t have to be a big chore—most tricks take just a few minutes and make a huge difference. I’ve learned …

Garden projects don’t have to be complicated to make a big impact. I’ve rounded up some of the most creative DIY ideas that turn ordinary …

Spotted begonias have a way of stealing the show with their bold patterns and stylish leaves. I’ve grown a few myself, and they always get …

Raccoons might have a bad reputation, but they’re not all trouble and trash cans. I’ve learned there’s a surprising side to these masked critters that …

Ever feel like your backyard’s putting on a show for the whole neighborhood? These privacy ideas are here to change that. From clever fences to …