Author: Jaxon Whitaker

Micro forests are becoming a popular choice for San Diego yards this fall. These compact clusters of trees and plants bring variety and depth to home landscapes. They create natural layers that blend different species in a small space. Adding a micro forest changes the look and feel of a yard by introducing more greenery…

In Milwaukee, some gardens are doing more than just growing flowers—they’re building leafy fences that work as bird hangouts. These natural borders give feathered friends shelter, nesting spots, and a safe place to rest between flights. Picture a goldfinch peeking out from a hedge or a robin hopping along a green wall. It’s the kind…

Raleigh yards have a wonderful opportunity this fall to welcome a burst of color and life with wildflower chaos planting. Letting flowers grow freely creates a playful, natural vibe that pollinators love to explore. This mix of blooms attracts butterflies, bees, and other helpful insects, turning your yard into a buzzing paradise. It’s an easy…

Clover isn’t just a soft ground cover — it’s also a welcome stop for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. In Boston, certain varieties can handle the local weather while providing steady nectar and pollen. Some stay low and spread quickly, while others grow taller and bloom in different shades. Mixing a few types can keep…

New Mexico’s winters can be tricky, but with the right care, your peppers and tomatoes can survive and even thrive until spring. I’ve learned some simple tricks to protect these heat-loving plants from chilly nights and dry air without losing all that summer’s hard work. From cozy spots to smart watering, these tips keep your…

Deadheading usually helps flowers keep blooming, but in Georgia gardens, some blooms are better left alone. I’ve learned the hard way that snipping the wrong ones can mean missing out on fall color, seeds for birds, or even next year’s flowers. These blooms pull double duty—looking good and supporting local wildlife or reseeding naturally. It’s…

Kentucky gardeners, hold off on mulching these plants for now! While mulch is great for protecting your garden, some plants actually need a little extra time before getting that cozy blanket. Covering them too soon can slow growth or cause problems when the weather changes. Let’s find out which plants need to wait a bit…

New Jersey’s lawns don’t always need to look like a golf course. Sometimes, giving your grass a break from the mower can do wonders for your whole garden. Skipping those clippings for 30 days helps wildlife find food and shelter right outside your door. I’ve seen how this little change can turn a yard into…

Native plants in Minnesota are buzzing with life—and right now, monarch butterflies are dining in style. Imagine vibrant patches of purple, orange, and gold, humming with fluttering wings and the gentle promise of conservation. I’ve watched milkweed stand tall in my own garden, serving as both food and nursery for caterpillars as they transform. These…

Michigan gardening season is rolling along—and believe it or not, now’s the perfect week to grab the pruning shears. Certain plants thrive when given a trim at this exact moment, and I’ve seen firsthand how a little snip can spark a burst of new life. These 17 green delights are asking for a haircut this…

August might feel like cruise control in the garden, but North Carolina growers know it’s anything but. I’ve made a few of these mistakes myself—thinking I had more time or skipping a chore that seemed small. Turns out, August missteps can totally wreck your fall harvest before it even starts. This list breaks down the…

If your tomato leaves are turning yellow in Indiana, you’re definitely not alone. I spotted the same thing in my garden and had to figure out what was going on. Sometimes it’s just a quick fix—other times, it’s your plant asking for help. Knowing what to look for can save your harvest and your sanity….

Iowa gardens are under attack—and some tiny troublemakers are to blame. I’ve spotted chewed leaves and mystery holes, and yep, it’s those common garden bugs causing chaos. The good news? You can stop them without turning your garden into a war zone. I’ve tried a few simple tricks that actually work, and my plants are…

If you’re gardening in Georgia, now’s the time to get those fall crops in the ground. I’m talking leafy greens, crisp radishes, and all the cozy-season favorites that’ll be ready just when the weather cools down. It’s the kind of planting that pays off big when you’re craving fresh veggies later. I’ve already mapped out…

August might be winding down, but Vermont gardens are still buzzing with color—and butterflies know exactly where to go. These late bloomers keep the show going just when things start to fade. I’ve seen monarchs glide in like royalty, drawn to goldenrod, ironweed, and Joe-Pye weed like they’re VIPs at a flower party. It’s the…

Maine’s gardens are turning into comeback stars thanks to self-sowing annuals—they literally reseed themselves and surprise us every spring! These floral freebies are nature’s gift: …

I panicked the first time my basil started turning yellow—thought I’d lost the whole plant! But in Minnesota gardens, it’s usually something simple like overwatering, heat stress, or a lack of nutrients. I’ve brought mine back with a few quick fixes, and it bounced right back to green and lush. Don’t give up on it…

I used to think any time was a good time to prune—until I made a few mistakes in my Illinois garden. Some plants really hate being cut back in late summer and can struggle come fall. But others? They actually benefit from a little cleanup right now. I’ve learned which ones to leave alone and…

My garden in August felt a little too quiet—until I started planting a few butterfly favorites. In Alabama, some plants are absolute magnets for these fluttery visitors this time of year. I’ve watched my yard come alive with movement just by adding a couple of late-summer bloomers. It’s such a simple way to bring in…

I used to let my tomato plants do their own thing once summer started winding down—but not anymore. In New York, a few quick steps in late summer can keep them going strong into fall. Pruning, feeding, and a little support can make a big difference this time of year. I’ve seen mine bounce back…

Some plants look innocent at first, but they’re actually sneaky troublemakers taking over your yard. I’ve had a few that spread so fast, they nearly swallowed up everything else I planted. If you don’t act quick, these aggressive growers can choke out your favorite flowers and veggies before you even notice. Trust me, catching them…

When time’s tight but the garden still needs love, these clever hacks are total game changers. I’ve picked up a few tricks that save me hours without sacrificing how good everything looks. From quick watering fixes to smart pruning shortcuts, it’s all about working smarter, not harder. You’ll be amazed how a little planning can…

Before you chase that possum off your Georgia lawn, you might want to hear it out—turns out, it’s doing more good than you think. I used to see them as pests, but now I know they’re quietly helping with tick control and cleaning up leftovers I didn’t even notice. They’re like little nighttime janitors with…

Zucchini can be a little dramatic when it comes to pollination—I learned that the hard way. One summer, I had plenty of flowers but barely any fruit, and it drove me nuts. Turns out, a few small changes made all the difference. Once I figured out how many plants were actually enough, everything just clicked….

Tropical vibes can transform any backyard into a relaxing paradise you never want to leave. These 15 plants bring lush color, bold leaves, and a touch of the exotic right to your doorstep. I’ve handpicked favorites that thrive and make your outdoor space feel like a getaway. Imagine stepping into your own slice of tropical…

I love plants, but let’s be real—I don’t always have time to baby them. That’s why I stick to the ones that thrive on a little neglect and still show up looking fabulous. These green gems are tough, unfussy, and practically take care of themselves. No constant watering, no drama, just steady growth and good…

I’ve had one growing in a jar on my windowsill for years—and it’s still going strong. No soil, no fuss, just water and a little love now and then. These easygoing beauties can handle life in a vase like pros. Perfect if you’re into low-effort greenery that still looks great. Trust me, once you try…

Weeds can take over fast in Alabama gardens, and trust me—I’ve been there, pulling the same ones week after week. But once I started using a few smart tricks, things got a whole lot easier. Some of these methods are surprisingly simple, and they actually work in our tough Southern conditions. If you’re fed up…

If you’ve got hungry deer roaming through your yard in Pennsylvania, I feel your pain. They’ve munched more of my flowers than I care to admit—but not anymore! There are beautiful blooms they tend to skip, and planting them now can save you a ton of frustration. I’ve found a few favorites that thrive here…

Geraniums are summer superstars—but with a few clever tricks, they can bloom even bigger and longer. I’ve tried everything from pruning to secret soil boosts, and these 15 hacks truly made a difference. Whether you grow them in pots or garden beds, these tips will help your geraniums thrive all season. I’ll also share what’s…

July might feel like peak garden season, but skipping the wrong tasks now can lead to a world of trouble later. I’ve learned the hard way that some jobs just can’t wait—especially when the heat’s cranking and plants are in full swing. These 15 tasks keep things healthy, blooming, and productive all summer long. They…

I used to toss citrus peels in the trash without a second thought—until I found out how much my tomato garden could benefit from them. Turns out, those peels are little powerhouses packed with nutrients and natural defenses. I’ve tried a few of these tricks myself, and my tomatoes have never looked better. From deterring…

Squirrels might look cute, but they can be total menaces when it comes to potted plants. I’ve had them dig, chew, and toss soil like it’s their personal playground. If you’re tired of cleaning up the mess or losing your favorite plants, I’ve got your back. These 15 tricks have helped me outsmart the little…

I’ve had my fair share of tomato heartbreak—cracked skins, sad blight, you name it. But after a few trial-and-error seasons, I found varieties that actually hold up and keep producing. These tomatoes are tough, tasty, and way less trouble in the garden. I also picked up a few growing tips along the way that make…

I love spending time on the deck in summer, but not when it feels like the neighbors are right there with me. A few simple changes made my outdoor space feel way more private and peaceful. From clever plant choices to easy DIY screens, there are so many ways to cozy things up. I didn’t…