Growing tomatoes in Virginia can be incredibly rewarding when you choose the right spot. However, planting them in the wrong location can lead to disappointing harvests, disease problems, and stunted growth. Understanding where tomatoes struggle most will help you avoid common mistakes and enjoy a bountiful crop all summer long. 1. Under Black Walnut Trees…
October brings cooler weather and changing leaves across Virginia, but your lawn still needs attention before winter arrives. Mowing correctly during this transition month helps your grass stay healthy and strong through the cold months ahead. These practical tips will guide you through the best practices for keeping your Virginia lawn in top shape this…
October in Louisiana doesn’t signal the end of the growing season—it’s actually a fresh beginning. While others pack up their tools, our mild fall weather keeps the soil warm and welcoming. It’s the perfect time to start certain fruits from seed, like strawberries or melons. These early efforts can set you up for a strong,…
Rosemary adds bold flavor to your cooking, but Pennsylvania winters can be rough on this sun-loving herb. Cold snaps and frost can quickly damage or kill it if left unprotected. Since rosemary hails from the Mediterranean, it prefers mild winters and well-drained soil. Our chilly climate means you’ll need to give it a little extra…
Living in Illinois means dealing with more than just harsh winters and humid summers. Some insects in the Prairie State can pose serious threats to your health, property, and peace of mind. Knowing which bugs deserve immediate action can protect your family and home from painful bites, dangerous diseases, and costly damage. 1. Asian Giant…
Fall in Wisconsin brings crisp air and the perfect time to help your shrubs stay healthy through winter. Pruning now removes dead branches and shapes your plants so they grow strong next spring. Whether you’re caring for a single hedge or a whole yard full of bushes, these simple steps will guide you through the…
Just because it’s fall in Illinois doesn’t mean your herb garden has to call it quits. Cooler temps can actually be perfect for certain hardy herbs. Many varieties—like thyme, sage, and parsley—can handle light frost and keep growing. That means fresh flavor for your meals deep into autumn. I’ve found that planting cold-tolerant herbs now…
Mulch is one of your garden’s best allies. It locks in moisture, keeps weeds at bay, and gives your beds a clean, finished look. But timing matters—especially in a place like Missouri, where seasons can flip from hot to cold or dry to stormy in short order. Refreshing mulch at the right moment helps gardens…
Bees are some of the hardest workers in your backyard, pollinating flowers and helping gardens thrive. But when winter rolls around in Ohio, these tiny creatures face serious challenges staying warm and finding food. Luckily, you don’t need to be a beekeeper to make a difference. With a few simple steps, Ohio homeowners can create…
October in Indiana brings cooler temperatures and falling leaves, but your lawn still needs attention before winter arrives. Mowing during this month requires different strategies than summer care to keep your grass healthy through the cold season ahead. Following the right mowing practices now will help your yard bounce back beautifully when spring returns. These…
Maine winters can be long and cold, but your summer garden harvest doesn’t have to go to waste. Learning how to properly store vegetables and fruits means you’ll enjoy fresh, homegrown flavors all winter long. With a little planning and the right techniques, you can keep your harvest delicious and nutritious for months to come….
Finding the right plants for shady spots under trees can be tricky, but Oregon gardeners have plenty of great options. Ground covers help prevent weeds, reduce erosion, and make your yard look beautiful even in low-light areas. With Oregon’s mild, rainy climate, certain ground covers absolutely thrive beneath those towering shade trees, turning bare soil…
Gophers can turn a thriving Ohio garden into a mess in no time. Their tunnels tear through roots, leave mounds everywhere, and wreck lawns you’ve worked hard to grow. But you don’t need harsh chemicals to fight back. There are safer, smarter ways to keep these furry troublemakers out of your yard. I’ve found that…
Have you ever spotted what looks like a messy bird nest high up in a Pennsylvania tree and wondered what kind of bird built it? You might be surprised to learn that not every leafy ball in the branches belongs to our feathered friends. Some of these structures are actually homes for other creatures that…
Bees are some of the hardest workers in nature, buzzing from flower to flower and helping gardens bloom beautifully. But lately, Pennsylvania gardeners have noticed fewer bees visiting their yards, and that’s a problem we all need to understand. When bee populations drop, our gardens suffer, and so does the food we eat. Let’s explore…
Growing your own food sounds like a great idea, but not every plant is legal to cultivate in your backyard. Maine has specific laws about certain crops that might surprise you. Some plants are banned because they can harm the environment, while others have been restricted due to health or safety concerns. 1. Japanese Knotweed…
Peace lilies are more than just pretty plants with white flowers. In Hawaii homes, where tropical breezes meet indoor living, these green wonders work hard to clean the air and bring a sense of peace to any room. Whether you live near the beach or up in the mountains, adding a peace lily to your…
Maryland lawns face unique challenges thanks to our clay-heavy soils, unpredictable weather swings, and humid summers. While trees add beauty and shade to any yard, some species create more headaches than they’re worth for homeowners trying to maintain healthy grass. From roots that choke out turf to leaves that smother everything beneath, certain trees simply…
Fall mums are a favorite in Massachusetts, but common mistakes can keep them from thriving in your garden. Many homeowners grab the prettiest plants without thinking about what makes them last. I always check each plant carefully at the nursery because a small issue early on can affect the entire season. Making smart choices when…
Bare patches in your garden can be frustrating, especially when you want a beautiful yard that looks full and healthy. Ground covers offer a smart solution for Massachusetts gardeners dealing with empty spaces where grass won’t grow or slopes that need protection. These low-growing plants spread quickly, prevent weeds, and add texture and color to…
Maryland’s unpredictable fall weather can swing from warm afternoons to frosty mornings in a matter of days, and your hydrangeas need proper preparation to survive winter’s chill. Whether you’re growing bigleaf, panicle, or oakleaf varieties, taking action now protects next season’s blooms and keeps plants healthy. These seven essential tasks will help your hydrangeas transition…
Fall arrives in Wisconsin gardens with cooler nights and fading greenery, making it tempting to grab your shears and tidy everything up before winter. But hostas deserve a little more patience than most plants. Cutting them back too early can actually weaken them and create problems you’ll regret come spring, especially in our unpredictable Midwest…
Wisconsin gardeners know that fall planting can make all the difference when spring arrives. Veronica, also called Speedwell, is one of those perennials that truly thrives when you get it in the ground before winter sets in. The cooler temperatures and autumn rains create perfect conditions for root development, giving your plants a head start…
Working in a Missouri garden means more than just dealing with weeds and watering schedules. Our state’s warm summers and humid climate create perfect conditions for several venomous creatures that like to hide among plants, mulch, and garden tools. Knowing what to watch for can help you stay safe while enjoying your outdoor space. 1….
As autumn settles across Ohio, hummingbird enthusiasts face an important decision: when should feeders come down? Timing matters because leaving feeders up too long can interfere with natural migration patterns, while removing them too early might leave stragglers without food. Knowing the right signs helps you support these incredible birds while respecting their journey south….
Fall in Ohio means cooler weather, football season, and gardens filled with colorful mums. But buying the right mums can be trickier than it looks, and many gardeners end up with plants that fade quickly or struggle to survive. Knowing what to look for before you buy can save you time, money, and disappointment. This…
Working in your Tennessee garden should be peaceful and rewarding, but sharing space with venomous creatures makes awareness essential. In my own Tennessee garden, I’ve learned the hard way that not all critters are as harmless as they seem, which makes knowing the local venomous species crucial. From pulling weeds to trimming hedges, understanding what…
Possums often wander into Colorado yards, especially near gardens and flower beds where they search for food and shelter. While they might seem like pests, these nocturnal visitors play important roles in our local ecosystem. In my own Colorado backyard, I’ve noticed how possums can sometimes disrupt flower beds and vegetable patches, which taught me…
Living in Tennessee means dealing with humid summers and homes that often have a few rooms tucked away from natural light. Maybe it’s a basement, a hallway, or a bathroom without a single window. Just because a space lacks sunlight doesn’t mean it has to feel lifeless—plenty of plants can thrive in those dim corners…
Ohio gardeners know that finding a place where passion for plants meets creativity is rare. Groovy Plants Ranch in Columbus has become that special spot where people come not just to shop, but to feel inspired. I remember my first visit—walking through rows of unusual plants and realizing this wasn’t your typical nursery. It’s a…
Colorado homeowners often encounter wildlife in their yards, from birds nesting in trees to small mammals burrowing near garden beds. While some creatures may seem like pests, many are legally protected under state and federal laws, meaning you can’t simply remove them without facing serious penalties. Understanding which animals fall under these protections helps you…
Colorado homeowners know that winter preparation means more than just winterizing pipes and clearing gutters. Your garden and yard areas can harbor dangerous insects that, if left unchecked before the cold arrives, might damage plants, invade your home, or even pose health risks. Taking action now, before the first heavy frost, protects both your outdoor…
October in Minnesota brings crisp air, falling leaves, and a garden in transition. As wildlife prepares for the harsh winter ahead, our gardens can become crucial sanctuaries that provide food, shelter, and protection during the cold months. Taking the right steps now helps create a thriving ecosystem that supports birds, beneficial insects, and small mammals…
October brings crisp mornings and golden afternoons to Washington state, creating the perfect window for essential garden maintenance. As plants prepare for dormancy, strategic pruning now helps strengthen them against our wet winters and sets the stage for vibrant spring growth. Taking shears to certain plants before the first frost hits isn’t just good practice—it’s…
October in Massachusetts offers a perfect window for starting fruit seeds that need winter’s cold snap to germinate properly. Planting now gives seeds the natural stratification they need during our New England winters. While most people think spring is planting season, certain fruits actually do better when their seeds are planted in fall, establishing stronger…
Fall gardening in Georgia offers a second chance to grow delicious vegetables before winter sets in. Our state’s warm autumn days and cooler nights create perfect conditions for many crops, but smart companion planting can make the difference between an average harvest and an abundant one. By strategically pairing certain vegetables, you can naturally repel…
Chrysanthemums bring gorgeous color to Colorado gardens just as summer flowers fade. However, our state’s early frosts, dry air, and temperature swings make keeping mums blooming throughout fall a real challenge. With a few simple techniques, you can extend their flowering season well into the cooler months, even in our unique mountain climate. 1. Morning…
Japanese Barberry might look harmless in your Pennsylvania garden, but it’s actually a magnet for ticks that can harm your pets. This invasive shrub creates the perfect environment for ticks to thrive, putting dogs, cats, and even humans at risk for Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Before you plant anything new this season, consider…
Michigan winters can be brutal on garden plants, especially beloved geraniums that add color to our summer landscapes. Many gardeners assume these flowering favorites must be repurchased each spring, but that’s not true! With a few simple techniques, you can save your geraniums through winter and enjoy them year after year, saving both money and…
Purple Martins are beautiful birds that bring natural pest control and cheerful songs to Florida backyards. These social aerial acrobats have a special relationship with humans, depending on us for nesting sites in much of eastern North America. Getting these graceful birds to visit your yard takes some know-how, but the rewards of hosting a…
Arizona’s diverse landscapes create perfect habitats for some of North America’s most colorful feathered visitors. From desert washes to suburban gardens, these winged wonders bring unexpected splashes of color to everyday life. Whether you’re a dedicated bird watcher or simply enjoy morning coffee on your patio, keep your eyes peeled for these stunning birds that…
Creating a beautiful Ohio garden isn’t just about spring flowers – it’s about choosing plants that provide interest throughout the changing seasons. Our state’s climate offers unique challenges and opportunities for gardeners looking to maintain color and texture year-round. With the right plant selections, your garden can showcase stunning visual appeal from early spring through…
Gardening in Oregon offers unique rewards thanks to our mild winters and adequate rainfall that create perfect conditions for many perennials. Some flowering plants actually perform better with less fussing and more freedom to establish themselves naturally in our rich soil. These 13 perennials not only survive but actually thrive and bloom more profusely when…
Gardening in Massachusetts presents unique challenges due to the region’s cold winters, late spring frosts, and variable soil conditions. While many fruit trees thrive in our New England climate, others simply struggle to produce or can create unexpected problems in your yard. Before heading to the nursery this season, consider these nine fruit trees that…
Missouri gardens face unique challenges from destructive insects that can devastate plants overnight. As temperatures rise each spring, these pests emerge ready to munch through your carefully tended vegetables, ornamentals, and trees. Knowing which insects pose the biggest threats allows gardeners to take swift action before infestations spiral out of control. 1. Japanese Beetles: The…
Japanese Barberry might seem like an attractive landscaping option, but for Maryland pet owners, it poses serious risks. This invasive shrub has become increasingly common in our state’s gardens, creating hazards for both local ecosystems and our beloved four-legged companions. Before you consider adding this plant to your yard, understand the dangers it presents to…
Here in Massachusetts, community associations have started scrutinizing certain yard features more closely than ever before. I’ve noticed neighbors increasingly complaining about specific landscaping choices, and honestly, I understand some of their concerns. Environmental impact, property values, and neighborhood aesthetics are driving these conversations about which garden elements might face restrictions in our Bay State…
Massachusetts yards have seen their fair share of landscaping trends over the decades, from colonial-inspired gardens to modern minimalist designs. Living in New England, I’ve watched garden fads sweep through our neighborhoods, with some leaving homeowners scrambling to undo the damage. These nine landscaping trends once dominated Bay State properties but now have many Massachusetts…
Colorado’s diverse ecosystem deserves our protection, especially when we’re adding artificial lights to our outdoor spaces. The wrong kind of garden lighting can disrupt migration patterns, confuse nocturnal animals, and even affect plant growth cycles. I’ve spent years adjusting my own garden lights after noticing fewer birds and insects visiting. Here are 10 practical ways…
Oregon’s climate creates a perfect environment for growing hops, but timing your planting can make all the difference. Fall planting, especially in October, gives your hop rhizomes a head start that pays off with stronger summer harvests. I’ve been growing hops in the Willamette Valley for years, and switching to autumn planting completely transformed my…
Walking into Grandma’s sun-drenched California bungalow feels like stepping into a secret botanical treasure trove. Those leafy companions she’s nurtured for decades aren’t just pretty additions to her home—some might actually be worth a small fortune! California’s mild climate creates perfect conditions for these botanical rarities to thrive indoors, turning ordinary family heirlooms into potentially…
October is a perfect time for California gardeners to grab their pruners and give certain plants a much-needed haircut. As our gardens transition from summer to fall, strategic pruning helps prepare plants for winter dormancy while encouraging stronger growth next spring. Taking time now to trim back overgrown branches, remove dead foliage, and shape your…
Virginia’s cottage gardens transform into magical spaces when autumn arrives, offering a spectacular display that captures the essence of the season. Cool mountain air and rich clay soils create perfect conditions for certain flowers to flourish well into November. Many Virginia gardeners cherish these late-blooming beauties that bring color when the landscape begins its seasonal…
Tucked away in cozy Tennessee homes, grandmothers have been quietly nurturing plant collections for decades that might now be worth a small fortune. Many of these leafy treasures were once common but have become sought-after rarities in today’s booming houseplant market. What looks like just another potted plant on a sunny windowsill could actually be…
Minnesota winters can be brutally cold, with temperatures plunging well below zero for weeks at a time. Many gardeners assume these harsh conditions make growing perennial herbs impossible. Fortunately, several hardy herbs not only survive but actually thrive in our northern climate, returning year after year despite snow, ice, and frigid temperatures. 1. Thyme: The…
Washington gardens create perfect havens for some of nature’s most colorfully surprising birds. Our state’s unique mix of climates and native plants attracts feathered visitors that can transform an ordinary backyard into a birdwatcher’s paradise. Creating bird-friendly spaces with diverse plants not only beautifies your garden but invites these living jewels to become regular visitors…
Ohio gardeners know the challenge of our unpredictable weather patterns, from freezing winters to scorching summer days. But there’s a simple solution that doesn’t require a large yard or perfect conditions – bucket gardening! I started growing vegetables in five-gallon buckets on my small Akron patio three years ago and haven’t looked back since. The…