Pauline Butterfield

Growing a stunning Thanksgiving cactus in Arizona’s sizzling August might sound like a stretch, but it’s absolutely doable. I’ve found 15 easy tweaks that help …

Gardening seems straightforward—until you find out some plants just don’t get along. I learned this the hard way after pairing a few “innocent” neighbors that …

Planting the wrong greenery near your home might seem harmless at first—but it can lead to expensive damage and big regrets. Roots that crack foundations, …

Growing herbs at home is a simple way to save money and keep fresh flavors close at hand. I’ve had a basil jar on my …

Growing sweet potatoes in Texas can feel like an uphill battle against an army of hungry insects. Our hot, humid climate creates the perfect breeding …

Rust on leaves is one of the most common problems Maryland gardeners face, especially during our humid summer months. Those orange-brown spots aren’t just unsightly—they …

Gardeners across California are spotting something strange—zucchini leaves covered in white patches, stretching from San Diego all the way up to Sacramento. I noticed it …

Think it’s too late to start an herb garden in Mississippi? Think again. Our long, warm growing season makes mid-summer planting surprisingly productive—especially for herbs …

August in Utah delivers a wildflower spectacle that’s both dazzling and vital. These native blooms light up the landscape while feeding hardworking bees through the …

Kentucky gardens have their own quiet magic—mild winters, hot summers, and soil that’s full of surprises. If you choose the right plants, your yard can …

Gardening in Utah comes with its quirks—hot summers, cold snaps, and unpredictable storms. But with a bit of smart planning, it’s totally possible to grow …

When planting trees in Georgia’s red clay soil, choosing the right species can mean the difference between decades of shade and beauty or years of …

Texas yards brim with gorgeous trees that offer a cool escape from the blazing summer sun. They’re the heroes of backyard shade—but a few of …

Growing hydrangeas in South Carolina is no walk in the park. Between intense heat, sudden rainstorms, and challenging soil, leaf issues pop up fast—and they’re …

Mississippi gardeners know that creating a beautiful yard doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With our unique growing season and rich soil, folks across the …

Alabama gardeners are falling in love with raised bed gardens faster than kudzu covers a fence post. These elevated growing spaces solve many common gardening …

Utah gardeners have discovered some fascinating uses for Epsom salt that go way beyond the bathroom. This simple mineral compound, made of magnesium and sulfate, …

California’s perfect blend of sunshine, diverse microclimates, and innovative agricultural research has made it the birthplace of countless fruit varieties we enjoy today. From university …

Daffodils are the cheerful messengers of spring, bursting through the soil just when you need a splash of color. Their sunny yellow blooms feel like …

Petunias are the showstoppers of any garden, bursting with color and charm all season long. But to keep them blooming beautifully, they need a little …

We’ve all glanced out at a garden once full of promise, now tangled and wild—and felt that mix of guilt and nostalgia. Life happens. Between …

Growing perennial vegetables is a savvy move for gardeners who want lasting results with less effort. These plants return every year without the hassle of …

Arizona’s desert heat is no joke—plants need to be tough and adaptable to thrive here. Perennials that can handle both shade and sun bursts are …

California’s sun-drenched lawns look great on the surface—but keeping them green through droughts and heat waves takes more than routine care. Fertilizing the smart way …

Turning a sun-baked Arizona yard into a relaxing retreat might sound impossible—but with a few smart choices, it’s totally doable. By working with the climate …

Landscaping in Arizona is a balancing act—our intense desert climate and stubborn soil make plant selection crucial, especially near the house. The wrong choices can …

Florida’s sunny vibe and wild mix of habitats make it a haven for snakes—most of them helpful and harmless. They keep rodent numbers down and …

Coyotes are showing up more often in California yards—and not just in the countryside. These adaptable canines are making themselves at home in suburban spaces …

Bee balm isn’t just beautiful—it’s a magnet for hummingbirds, butterflies, and bees. Its vivid blooms and minty foliage light up the garden while bringing pollinators …

Growing herbs goes way beyond cooking—they can turn your garden into a living perfume shop. With just a brush of your hand or a sunbeam …

Daylilies are total garden MVPs—showy blooms, low-maintenance vibes, and a flair that fits almost anywhere. But if you really want them to pop, the magic …

Taking care of your lawn mower isn’t just smart—it’s essential for keeping your yard looking sharp and your wallet happy. A mower in good shape …

Want your sunflowers to keep shining all season? Deadheading—snipping off faded blooms—is a simple trick that encourages new growth and keeps the patch looking vibrant. …

Got a pesky tree stump that just won’t budge? Before you bring out the heavy machinery, peek into your bathroom—yes, seriously. Some everyday items can …

By July, the garden shifts gears—and some tools that were stars in spring start to lose their shine. That hand cultivator? Great for early soil …

Foxgloves bring an enchanting touch with their tall spires and nodding bell-shaped blooms—like something out of a storybook. They turn even the simplest garden beds …

There’s something magical about watching butterflies drift from flower to flower—it turns your garden into a living work of art. By choosing the right nectar-rich …

Tired of blooms that vanish before you’ve even had time to admire them? Long-blooming perennials are the answer—bringing vivid color for months, not weeks. They …

July’s long, sunny days are like a spotlight for your garden—flowers burst into full color, showing off their most dazzling forms. It’s the perfect time …

Want to give your home’s exterior a fresh summer glow without breaking the bank? July’s warm weather is ideal for popping in a few flowering …