If you’ve ever looked up at your Florida trees and thought you’d spotted a bird’s nest, don’t count your chickens just yet. What looks like a cozy home for feathered friends might actually be something entirely different — and not always what meets the eye. Before you let curiosity get the better of you, it’s…
Michigan gardeners have mastered a special technique for growing spectacular dahlias year after year, despite our challenging winters. This trick involves properly digging up and storing dahlia tubers during the cold months. Knowing how to handle these beautiful flowers can mean the difference between a stunning garden next fall or starting from scratch with new…
In Arizona, some animals are off-limits — even if they move into your yard or home. State law protects several native creatures that play vital roles in the desert ecosystem. Before calling pest control, learn about 12 species you’re legally required to leave alone. 1. Desert Tortoise Spotting one of these ancient-looking reptiles in your…
Wisconsin gardeners beware! The state’s Department of Natural Resources is constantly monitoring potentially harmful plants that threaten our native ecosystems. Invasive species can quickly take over natural areas, crowding out native plants and disrupting wildlife habitats. Several popular garden plants are now under review for possible addition to Wisconsin’s official banned plants list. 1. Japanese…
Dealing with rats in Wisconsin can be a real headache for homeowners. Many folks want to avoid harsh chemicals around their families and pets. Luckily, Mother Nature offers some powerful plant allies that can help keep these pesky rodents at bay while adding beauty to your yard or garden. 1. Mint: The Fragrant Defender Wisconsin…
Purple Martins are beautiful birds that bring joy to Ohio backyards with their deep purple feathers and cheerful songs. These aerial acrobats not only provide entertainment but also help control pesky insects like mosquitoes and flies. Attracting them takes some special preparation, but the reward of hosting a thriving colony makes every effort worthwhile. 1….
Gardening in Texas can be challenging with our scorching summers and unpredictable weather patterns. Luckily, nature has blessed us with hardy perennials that thrive with minimal attention. These tough plants return year after year, creating beautiful landscapes while saving you time and effort. Perfect for busy homeowners or those who prefer admiring gardens rather than…
Dreaming of fresh fruit from your Arizona backyard? Not all trees thrive in our desert climate with scorching summers and mild winters. Choosing the wrong fruit trees wastes time, money, and leads to disappointing harvests. Before heading to the nursery, learn which fruit trees struggle in Arizona’s unique growing conditions. 1. Cherry Trees Wilt Under…
Michigan’s fields once buzzed with life, a golden hum threading through apple orchards, clover patches, and backyard gardens. But now, that familiar soundtrack is fading fast. Beekeepers report hives collapsing, wild bees are vanishing, and the ripple effects are already showing up in food crops and ecosystems. What’s driving this decline isn’t just one bad…
Washington’s lush landscape creates the perfect home for many critters, including some that can pose real dangers to humans. From painful stings to disease transmission, certain insects in our backyards deserve our caution and respect. Knowledge about these potential threats helps keep your family safe while enjoying outdoor activities throughout the Evergreen State. 1. Black…
Creeping phlox transforms South Carolina backyards into stunning carpets of spring color. These low-growing perennials thrive in our climate when planted correctly, creating waves of pink, purple, blue, or white blooms that spill over garden edges. With proper care, these hardy plants will return year after year, growing more spectacular each season. 1. Choose The…
When fall sweeps through New Jersey and most blooms have sung their swan song, a surprising encore takes center stage. Bees hum like busy engines, butterflies dance on the breeze, and pollinators of every stripe flock as if the table were set just for them. It’s proof that “when one door closes, another opens,” and…
Attracting birds to your Ohio backyard can bring joy and natural beauty right to your window. Birdbaths play a crucial role in this effort, especially during hot summers and freezing winters when natural water sources might be scarce. Unfortunately, several common problems can turn your welcoming water feature into a bird-repelling eyesore. 1. Water Too…
Bees play a crucial role in North Carolina’s ecosystem and agriculture, pollinating crops worth billions of dollars annually. Sadly, bee populations across the state have been shrinking at an alarming rate over the past decade. Understanding why our buzzing friends are vanishing is the first step toward helping them recover and protecting our food supply….
Fall might feel like gardening season is winding down, but in Texas, it’s actually prime time to prepare your garden for the future. Proper fertilization now sets the stage for healthier plants, better blooms, and more bountiful harvests next year. Your Texas garden has different needs as temperatures finally start to drop. 1. Know Your…
Growing big, juicy garlic bulbs in Ohio can be tricky. Many backyard gardeners end up with tiny bulbs instead of the plump ones seen at farmers’ markets. Understanding why your garlic stays small is the first step to solving the problem and growing those impressive bulbs you’ve been dreaming about. 1. Ohio’s Clay-Heavy Soil The…
Arkansas homeowners are facing potential changes to what’s allowed in their yards. New regulations aimed at improving neighborhood appearance and safety could limit common yard features many take for granted. Before making outdoor improvements this season, check if these items might soon be against the rules in your area. 1. Towering Privacy Fences Say goodbye…
Growing flowers that dry beautifully can transform your Ohio garden into a source of year-round joy. When winter blankets your garden in snow, these dried blooms will keep your home colorful and fragrant. Ohio’s climate offers perfect growing conditions for many flowers that maintain their beauty long after being cut and dried. 1. Lavender’s Purple…
September brings cooler temperatures to New Jersey gardens, making it the perfect time to grab your pruning shears. Fall pruning helps prepare ornamental plants for winter dormancy while encouraging healthier growth next spring. Taking care of these pruning tasks now means your garden will look spectacular when warmer weather returns. 1. Butterfly Bush’s Late Summer…
September marks the perfect time for South Carolina gardeners to propagate shrubs. The warm soil and mild temperatures create ideal conditions for cuttings to develop strong roots before winter arrives. Getting started now means you’ll have beautiful, established plants ready to thrive next spring without spending a fortune at nurseries. 1. Oakleaf Hydrangea Native to…
Fall in Massachusetts brings beautiful foliage, but also critical lawn care responsibilities. Many homeowners unknowingly damage their lawns during this season with simple mistakes that have long-lasting effects. Fixing these common errors now will reward you with a healthier, greener lawn when spring arrives. 1. Skipping Fall Fertilization Many Massachusetts homeowners put away their lawn…
Your yard is your personal slice of Kentucky paradise, but some features might land you in hot water with local authorities. Kentucky’s laws and regulations about property maintenance vary by county and city, affecting what you can and can’t have in your yard. nderstanding these rules helps you avoid fines and neighborhood disputes while keeping…
New York’s gardens are home to many creatures that play vital roles in our local ecosystems. Some animals and insects you spot might actually be protected by state and federal laws, making it illegal to harm or remove them. Understanding which garden visitors are protected helps us become better stewards of our environment while avoiding…
Louisiana homeowners might need to rethink their yard designs as new environmental and safety regulations gain momentum. Changes to state laws could soon affect common features many residents have enjoyed for years. Better understand what might become illegal before you invest in your next outdoor project. 1. Front Yard Vegetable Gardens Growing your own tomatoes…
Fall in Ohio brings vibrant chrysanthemums to porches and gardens across the state. These colorful flowers can brighten your landscape well into November with the right care. Knowing how to maintain your mums through our unpredictable Midwest fall weather makes all the difference between short-lived blooms and a season-long color show. 1. Choose Late-Blooming Varieties…
Alabama’s changing climate and new environmental regulations are reshaping what’s possible in our backyards. Many features we’ve long enjoyed might soon become impractical or even illegal as water conservation needs grow and weather patterns shift. Your yard might look very different in the coming years as these familiar elements disappear from the Alabama landscape. 1….
Lavender thrives in Texas gardens, especially near patios where its beauty and benefits can be enjoyed up close. The purple-flowered herb perfectly suits our hot, often dry climate when given proper drainage and sunshine. Texans have discovered that strategic lavender placement around outdoor living spaces creates both practical advantages and sensory pleasures worth savoring. 1….
Texas gardens can become buzzing hotspots for hummingbirds during their fall migration. These tiny, jewel-toned birds need energy-rich nectar to fuel their incredible journey south. Planting the right late-summer and fall flowers not only beautifies your yard but creates a crucial refueling station for these amazing aerial acrobats. 1. Firebush Brings The Heat Firebush earns…
Finding mysterious holes in your yard can be both puzzling and frustrating. Pennsylvania is home to many burrowing creatures that might be turning your lawn into their personal construction site. Knowing which animal is responsible helps you choose the right solution to protect your property without harming local wildlife. 1. Look For Paw Prints Around…
The Seven Sons Flower Tree is a hidden gem for South Carolina gardeners. This unique tree bursts into brilliant white blooms each fall, transforming ordinary yards into buzzing wildlife havens. Originally from China, it’s now gaining popularity across the South for its beauty and incredible ability to attract butterflies, bees, and other helpful pollinators. 1….
Fall in Pennsylvania just wouldn’t be complete without the vibrant colors of mums decorating porches and gardens. These autumn favorites can bring joy for weeks, but they often fizzle out before the season ends. With Pennsylvania’s unpredictable fall weather swinging from warm days to frosty nights, keeping your mums looking fresh can be tricky. 1….
Growing veggies in California comes with unique challenges – from hungry critters to scorching sun. A good fence not only protects your precious plants but also adds charm to your garden space. Whether you’re dealing with rabbits, deer, or nosy neighbors, these fence ideas will help you create a productive and beautiful vegetable garden that…
Finding a raccoon in your home can be a frightening experience for any Florida homeowner. These clever critters often sneak in through pet doors, chimneys, or damaged areas of your house looking for food and shelter. Knowing exactly what steps to take when you discover an unwanted raccoon visitor can protect both your family and…
Louisiana gardeners know the joy of sitting on the porch during warm evenings, and fragrant plants can transform this experience into something magical. Our state’s hot, humid climate actually helps intensify the scents of many flowering plants, making them perfect companions for porches and patios. I’ve found that strategic placement of these aromatic varieties not…
Vermont’s cool climate and distinctive seasons create an ideal backdrop for cottage gardens brimming with personality. Tall perennials are the backbone of these charming spaces, providing structure, vertical interest, and season-long beauty. From my years tending gardens in the Green Mountain State, I’ve discovered that the right towering plants can transform an ordinary yard into…
Fall in North Carolina brings special challenges for hummingbird enthusiasts as many of our tiny feathered friends prepare for migration. While some Ruby-throated hummingbirds travel south, others actually stay through the cooler months. Keeping your feeders attractive during autumn can reward you with delightful visits even as the leaves change color. 1. Keep Feeders Clean…
Florida’s gardening scene is constantly evolving with new plant varieties that thrive in our unique climate. As we look ahead to 2026, exciting botanical trends are emerging that combine sustainability, visual appeal, and adaptability to our sunshine state’s conditions. Whether you’re redesigning your landscape or simply adding to your collection, these upcoming plant stars will…
Mississippi gardens bloom with beauty, but danger lurks among the leaves. Some trees contain toxins that can harm people, pets, and livestock when touched or eaten. Learning to identify these toxic trees is essential for keeping your family safe while enjoying your outdoor space. 1. Black Walnut Trees: The Silent Garden Killer Black walnut trees…
Spotting a possum in your Alabama yard might send you running for the broom or calling pest control. But these misunderstood marsupials actually bring surprising benefits to your garden and local ecosystem. Before you chase away these nighttime visitors, consider what you might be losing in the process. 1. Nature’s Pest Control Squad Possums are…
Dreaming of your own backyard orchard in Georgia? Not all fruit trees will thrive in our unique Southern climate. Hot, humid summers and unpredictable winters can spell disaster for certain varieties. Before you invest time and money, learn which fruit trees are likely to struggle or fail completely in Georgia’s growing conditions. 1. Tropical Mangoes…
Gardening in Louisiana’s sweltering heat can feel like an uphill battle, but some plants actually thrive when left alone. These tough-as-nails perennials laugh in the face of humidity, poor soil, and neglect while rewarding you with gorgeous blooms. Discovering these low-maintenance beauties might just change your entire approach to Southern gardening. 1. Black-Eyed Susan Golden…
Thinking about growing fruit trees in your California backyard? Not all trees thrive in our unique climate and soil conditions. Some popular fruit trees can struggle with drought, heat, or even become invasive pests in the California landscape. Before heading to the nursery, learn which trees might cause more headaches than harvest. 1. Bradford Pear…
Gardening in South Carolina’s hot, humid climate can be challenging, but the right plants make all the difference. Heat-tolerant perennials that thrive despite minimal care are perfect for busy gardeners or those new to Southern gardening. These tough beauties return year after year, bringing color and life to your landscape while standing up to scorching…
Keeping a lush, green lawn in Florida’s unique climate presents special challenges. The sandy soil, intense heat, and frequent rains can make fertilizing tricky for even experienced gardeners. Making the right fertilizing choices not only gives you a beautiful yard but also protects Florida’s delicate waterways from harmful runoff. 1. Using The Wrong Fertilizer Formula…
Gardening in North Carolina can be a challenge when summer temperatures soar and rain becomes scarce. Luckily, nature has provided us with amazing perennial plants that actually thrive in these tough conditions. The secret to a gorgeous, low-maintenance garden might surprise you – some plants simply bloom better when you leave them alone! 1. Black-Eyed…
Spotting a coyote in your Utah yard can be startling and concerning. These wild canines are becoming more common in suburban areas as their natural habitats shrink. Knowing how to react properly keeps both you and the coyote safe while preventing future unwanted visits. 1. Stay Calm And Keep Your Distance Your first instinct might…
Keeping your Texas lawn weed-free can feel like an endless battle. Those pesky invaders not only ruin the look of your carefully maintained grass but can also steal water and nutrients from your desired plants. Learning to spot common weeds early gives you the upper hand in protecting your yard and garden from these unwanted…
Ohio gardeners face a hidden threat that can wreak havoc on local ecosystems and native plant communities. Invasive perennials might look pretty in catalogs, but they can quickly take over gardens and spread into natural areas, choking out beneficial native species. Knowing which plants to avoid can save you years of battling aggressive spreaders while…
Fall in Texas brings a welcome relief from summer’s scorching temperatures, making it the perfect time to refresh your yard. Adding seasonal plants can transform your home’s exterior, boosting curb appeal and creating a warm welcome. With Texas’ unique climate, choosing the right fall plants ensures your yard stays vibrant through autumn and beyond. 1….
Proper pruning after harvest can make a world of difference for fruit trees in California’s unique climate. This timely maintenance helps shape growth, remove diseased branches, and ensures bigger, better harvests next season. California gardeners who master post-harvest pruning find their fruit trees not only look better but produce more abundant, higher-quality fruit year after…
Growing beautiful plants in shady North Carolina yards can be a real challenge, but abelia shrubs offer a perfect solution. These hardy, flowering plants thrive even with limited sunlight, making them ideal for those tricky spots under trees or along north-facing walls. With their fragrant blooms and attractive foliage, abelias can transform your shaded garden…
Long before modern agriculture reached Hawaiian shores, native Hawaiians developed sophisticated gardening systems that perfectly suited island life. These ancient practices not only fed communities but also shaped Hawaiian culture, spirituality, and social structures. The wisdom of Hawaiian gardening continues to inspire sustainable farming methods today, offering valuable lessons about living in harmony with nature….
Kentucky’s garden festivals bring European charm right to the Bluegrass State. From lavender fields reminiscent of Provence to tulip displays that rival Holland’s finest, these celebrations showcase stunning botanical wonders with old-world flair. Garden enthusiasts and casual visitors alike discover a slice of Europe’s horticultural heritage without ever boarding a plane. 1. Bernheim Forest’s French…
Nevada’s stunning landscape hides lush green getaways beyond the famous Las Vegas Strip and desert terrain. These verdant retreats offer peaceful alternatives to the state’s bustling tourist spots, with unexpected waterfalls, ancient forests, and vibrant meadows tucked away in remote corners. Discover Nevada’s softer side with these ten verdant sanctuaries that locals treasure but tourists…
Georgia’s lush landscape offers breathtaking natural retreats for everyone from casual day-trippers to dedicated outdoor enthusiasts. These green spaces showcase the state’s incredible biodiversity, from misty mountain forests to coastal marshlands. Pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and discover these natural treasures that make Georgia a paradise for nature lovers. 1. Amicalola Falls State…
Growing bell peppers in California can test your patience as they slowly transform from green to vibrant red, yellow, or orange. Many gardeners get frustrated waiting for that sweet, fully-developed flavor that only comes with complete ripening. Fortunately, there are several simple tricks that can speed up this process in our unique California climate. 1….
Taking care of your lawn in Ohio can be tricky because of the changing seasons and unique soil conditions. Many homeowners worry about finding the right balance between proper fertilization and accidentally overfeeding their grass. Getting this balance wrong can lead to burned patches, wasted money, or weak grass that attracts pests and diseases. 1….