This section has it all! Want to know how and with what to water your plant? We have it! Interested about repotting? Have that, as well! Need some germination tips or info on plants with superpowers? It’s all here in our Gardening Tips!
Bees need a little backup, and your backyard is the perfect place to start. I used to think it took a full-on wildflower meadow, but even small changes make a big difference. These 15 tips are easy, doable, and honestly kind of fun (plus, my garden has never looked better). The bees showed up, and…
Some yards are like bird magnets—and it’s not by accident. After lots of trial and error (and a few birdless weeks), I finally figured out what makes them stick around. These 16 little things made a huge difference in turning my garden into their favorite hangout. It’s not just about feeders—it’s the whole vibe. If…
Love feeding the birds but hate the mess it leaves behind? That bare, patchy spot under your feeder doesn’t have to stay ugly. With a little creativity, you can turn that eyesore into a charming garden feature. These 16 genius bird feeder landscaping ideas will help you hide the mess and beautify your backyard at…
Want to turn your garden into a butterfly haven? These 15 summer flowers are tried-and-true favorites that keep butterflies fluttering back for more. Packed with nectar and nonstop color, these blooms are pollinator magnets. Plus, we’ve added a few bonus picks that butterflies absolutely adore! 1. Purple Coneflower (Echinacea) Native to American prairies, purple coneflower…
Lilacs are beloved for their fragrance and old-fashioned charm—but do they really need deadheading to stay healthy and bloom beautifully? After 10 years of growing and caring for lilacs professionally, I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and when it’s worth grabbing the pruners. Here’s what you actually need to know about deadheading lilacs—and whether it…
Your garden isn’t just a pretty place—it can be a lifeline. Pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds need more than flowers to thrive—they need safe, shallow sources of water. These 16 creative backyard water station ideas are easy to make, beautiful to look at, and just what your buzzing, fluttering guests have been waiting for….
Summer heat can sneak up on your garden fast. One week everything’s lush and blooming, and the next you’re wondering why your tomatoes look fried. I’ve made my fair share of hot-weather mistakes, like watering at the wrong time or forgetting to mulch—and trust me, plants notice. When the sun is relentless, your usual routine…
Colorado potato beetles can wreck your garden if you’re not careful, but you don’t have to let them win. These sneaky bugs are tough, but with the right moves, you can send them packing fast. I’ve battled these pests myself, and trust me, a good plan makes all the difference. From quick fixes to long-term…
Hummingbirds are some of the most charming little visitors to any garden, but did you know they face quite a few sneaky threats? Spotting these predators early can help keep your tiny friends safe and buzzing happily around your flowers. Some of these critters might surprise you with their unexpected hunting skills. I’ve seen my…
Petunias fading fast? Don’t give up on those blooms just yet. With the right tricks, your garden can bounce back and burst with color before summer slips away. These 16 smart, easy hacks will help revive tired plants, boost new growth, and keep those vibrant flowers coming—so your petunias finish the season strong. 1. Deadhead…
Strawberry pots aren’t just for strawberries anymore. These tiered planters are perfect for a whole lineup of unexpected plants—from herbs and succulents to blooms that spill over the edges in style. Discover 17 surprising picks that thrive in strawberry pots and totally steal the spotlight—no berries required. 1. Colorful Succulents Succulents love the excellent drainage…
Grab those pruning shears—but don’t get snip-happy just yet! Some plants despise a summer trim and will punish you with fewer blooms or stunted growth. Others? They thrive on it. Learn which 15 plants you should leave alone during the heat—and the 5 that love a good summer cut. 1. Lilacs – Spring’s Fragrant Show-Stoppers…
Think any raised bed depth will do? Not quite. The depth of your bed can make or break your plants’ health, growth, and yield. Go too shallow, and roots get cramped. Too deep? You might waste time, money, and soil. Here’s how deep your raised bed really needs to be—and why getting it right makes…
I thought I was being smart adding a bit of ground cover to a bare patch—but wow, did it take over fast. Some of these plants spread like they’ve got a mission, and your lawn is their new target. They’re pretty, sure, but if you’re not careful, they’ll muscle out everything else. I’ve rounded up…
Big planters can be showstoppers—but stuffing them full of soil from top to bottom is like throwing money down the drain. It wastes space, strains your back, and sabotages healthy root growth. The real secret lies at the bottom: knowing what to tuck beneath the soil line to support your plants, boost drainage, and save…
Keeping bee balm blooming all season took me a bit of trial and error. At first, I just let it grow wild, not realizing that deadheading was the secret to more flowers. Once I started snipping off the faded blooms, the difference was huge—more color, less mess, and way more pollinators buzzing around. The process…
Some birds are more than just pretty visitors—they’re total garden MVPs. From bug control to pollination, these feathered friends actually help keep your yard thriving. Plus, it’s hard not to smile when they’re chirping away in the background. If you’re looking to turn your yard into a bird paradise, these are the 17 types you…
Ever wondered why random cats keep showing up in your yard like they own the place? Turns out, your garden might smell like an all-you-can-sniff buffet for them. Some scents are just too tempting for curious kitties to resist. From herbs to household smells, there’s a whole lineup drawing them in. Let’s break down the…
Herbs are pretty amazing at letting you know when they need a little extra love, especially when it’s time to deadhead. I’ve learned to read those subtle signs that mean a quick trim can work wonders. Deadheading doesn’t just keep herbs looking neat—it helps them stay fresh, full, and ready to grow more. It’s a…
Using the right fertilizer can make all the difference when growing vegetables, but sometimes it’s tricky to tell if you’re off track. I’ve noticed a few signs in my own garden that showed me my veggies weren’t getting what they really needed. Spotting these clues early helped me switch to better options that made my…
I always pictured a dreamy garden bursting with blooms, with roses stealing the spotlight. Everything was coming up roses—until it wasn’t. Turns out, these beauties are picky about their neighbors. I thought snapdragons would be the perfect sidekick… but it turned into a garden disaster, with both plants catching every bug and blight under the…
Lilies of the valley may look sweet, but can they really keep pests at bay? Before you plant them as your garden’s secret weapon, there are a few things you need to know. From toxic traits to pest-repelling potential, these 14 facts could change how—and where—you grow them. 1. Natural Pest Deterrent Powers Lilies of…
Thyme may be tough, but it thrives with the right touch—and that touch just might be gravel. More than just a filler or drainage fix, gravel can transform your soil into a thyme-growing powerhouse. From better drainage to stronger roots and tastier leaves, these 17 benefits show why a little grit goes a long way…
A vibrant garden doesn’t bloom by chance—it’s the result of smart care, good timing, and the right nutrients. Like any masterpiece, it takes effort to keep those hydrangeas shining all season. Whether it’s a cozy flower bed or a lush backyard escape, proper fertilizing is the magic that makes it thrive. It’s the secret behind…
I never knew how much rocks and mulch could transform a front yard until I gave it a shot myself. It’s a simple combo, but the results can be seriously eye-catching—plus, way less upkeep than grass! These 33 design ideas are packed with charm, personality, and a few clever tricks I picked up along the…
Turn your tiny patch of green into a jaw-dropping jungle with these clever small garden ideas. Splash it with color, tuck in a cozy nook, or grow a feast fit for royalty—space is no excuse! From sky-high setups to containers with serious character, these 39 bite-sized gems prove that style and smarts go hand in…
Ever look at your garden and think, It’s missing that wow factor? Defining your beds is like eyeliner for the yard—instant polish! I’ve tried it all, from wonky bricks to over-the-top borders (some were real duds). But these tips? They’re the real deal. With the right edge, your garden goes from drab to fab—whether it’s…
Just because a plant has a “wildlife-friendly” tag doesn’t mean it’s doing your backyard (or the planet) any favors. In fact, some of the most popular garden center staples are secretly sabotaging local ecosystems—pushing out native species, spreading like wildfire, and tipping nature off balance. Before you bring home another so-called eco-savior, take a look…
Irises and daffodils make such a stunning pair when planted just right, but getting them to shine together takes a bit of know-how. I’ve learned some handy tips that help these beauties complement each other perfectly and stay healthy season after season. Mixing their colors and shapes can really lift your garden’s charm. With a…
Lilacs are the crown jewels of my summer garden—but for years, I was pruning them all wrong. Instead of a floral fireworks show, I got a handful of sad, scattered blooms and a whole lot of frustration. After a few seasons of trial, error, and crossed fingers, I finally cracked the code. These 16 game-changing…
Marigolds are such cheerful garden stars, but pruning them makes all the difference in how they grow and bloom. I used to skip this step and quickly learned why it’s worth the little effort. Keeping up with regular pruning helps your marigolds stay full, vibrant, and bursting with flowers. On the flip side, skipping it…
Lilies are such stunning flowers, but sometimes they send little signals when something’s not quite right. I’ve been there—watching my lilies struggle and feeling unsure what to do next. Before you throw in the towel, it’s worth spotting these signs early and trying a few simple fixes. With a bit of care, you might bring…
Growing zucchini and cucumbers side by side can be such a rewarding garden adventure when you know the right moves. I’ve picked up some handy tips that helped my plants grow strong and stay healthy together without crowding each other out. These two veggies can really shine when given the right care and space to…
Growing thyme and basil side by side sounds perfect, but I’ve learned a few things the hard way that can trip you up. These two herbs have their own little quirks, and getting them to thrive together takes some attention. I want to save you from the mistakes I made so your garden stays happy…
Goldfinches are such cheerful little visitors, and I love how they brighten up my yard with their sunny colors. Getting them to stop by more often is easier than you might think, with just a few simple changes. I’ve picked up some handy tips that helped me welcome these feathered friends back season after season….
Curb appeal is climbing the ladder—and gardens are pulling serious weight. As home values shift in 2025, certain properties are rising to the top, boosted by smart landscaping and eco-friendly design. From native plant beds to edible gardens, outdoor spaces are doing more than looking pretty—they’re growing real value. 1. Eco-Friendly Suburban Homes Houses with…
Home values are on the move in 2025—and your garden could be part of the deal. Whether you’re buying your dream greenhouse haven or selling a lush urban jungle, don’t go in blind. From curb appeal to native landscaping trends, these 15 green-thumb insights will help you put down roots wisely—or cash in smart. Real…
Having foxes wandering through the yard can be a real headache, but getting them to move on doesn’t have to be stressful. I’ve found some smart and gentle ways to encourage foxes to find a new spot without any trouble. Keeping your garden safe and peaceful is totally possible with a few simple tricks. It’s…
Peonies are the crown jewels of the garden, but their fleeting blooms can vanish in the blink of an eye. If you’ve ever waited all year only to watch those lush petals drop like confetti in a storm, you’re not alone. Luckily, with a few clever tricks up your sleeve, you can keep your peonies…
Growing a rose garden that looks amazing no matter where you live sounds like a dream I used to think was out of reach. Over time, I picked up some solid tips that helped my roses not just survive but truly thrive through all kinds of weather. These 15 tricks are about getting blooms that…
Finding plants that thrive with just a few hours of sun can feel like hunting for hidden treasures. I’ve tried so many that promised blooms but barely made it through the day. These 20 gorgeous plants proved me wrong—they flourish beautifully with only 4 hours of sunlight and still put on a show. Perfect for…
Birds aren’t just cheerful visitors—they’re actually some of the best helpers your garden can get. I was amazed to learn how these feathered friends spread seeds in the most unexpected ways. From dropping leftovers to carrying seeds in their feathers, they play a huge role in bringing new life to the garden. These 15 ways…
Cucumbers might be the cool kids of the garden—crisp, refreshing, and laid-back—but not every plant is a friendly neighbor. Some steal their food, invite in pests, or spread nasty diseases that leave your cukes in crisis. Dreaming of a drama-free harvest? Slip on your gloves—these are the garden bullies your cucumbers definitely don’t want living…
Growing stunning dahlias isn’t just about sticking them in the sun and hoping for the best—I learned that the hard way. In my early dahlia days, I got leggy plants and disappointing blooms until I figured out their feeding needs. These plants are heavy eaters, and giving them the right nutrients at the right time…
When the petals start falling off your roses, it’s easy to wonder if you should just leave them be or grab the pruners. I used to hesitate too—afraid I’d cut too much or too soon. But I’ve learned that a little cleanup can go a long way in keeping roses happy. Deadheading might feel a…
With wildfire seasons becoming more intense where I live, I’ve started rethinking what I plant around the house. It turns out, some plants can actually help slow down flames while others can make things worse without you even realizing it. Fire-resistant plants aren’t just about looks—they retain more moisture and burn less easily, which can…
I’ve always tried to fill my garden with flowers that flutter with butterflies—but without drawing a swarm of bees to every bloom. Over the years, I’ve found a few gorgeous picks that butterflies can’t resist, and bees usually pass right by. These 18 flowers bring color, movement, and that magical butterfly charm without all the…
Your backyard might seem peaceful, but some of the tiniest critters lurking around aren’t as harmless as they look. I’ve had a few close calls that made me rethink what’s really crawling out there. These 17 little creatures may be small, but they can pack a punch—some even caught me totally off guard. It’s wild…
There’s something magical about seeing a flash of blue flit through the yard—bluebirds just have that cheerful charm. I’ve been trying different ways to bring them closer, and these 15 methods actually worked. From the right kind of feeders to a few small changes in the garden, it doesn’t take much to make them feel…
Not every plant needs to bask in the spotlight. Some thrive in the shadows, stealing the show from the sidelines. These 15 shade-loving beauties are perfect for containers, patios, and tucked-away garden corners. And if you’re working with soft, indirect light? We’ve added a few bonus picks that absolutely glow in it. 1. Hostas –…
Creating a beautiful backyard takes more than just plants and furniture—it’s about the details that tie everything together. An interior decorator’s eye can spot the little mistakes that turn a backyard from wow to whoa. These 29 mistakes are the ones that sneak in and steal your outdoor vibe without you even realizing it. Avoiding…
Tired of replanting your garden every year? Perennials are the answer to your gardening prayers. These plants come back season after season with minimal effort on your part, saving you time, money, and backaches. I’ve spent years testing different perennials in my own yard, discovering which ones truly deliver on the promise of being low-maintenance…
Starting a mushroom log was one of those projects I wasn’t sure I could pull off—but it turned out to be way easier (and way more fun) than I expected. Watching those little caps pop up for the first time felt like garden magic. If you’re curious about growing your own mushrooms, this is a…
Heirloom tomatoes stole my heart with that first juicy bite—but getting them to thrive wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. After a few flops and dirty lessons, I cracked the code. From sun-soaked spots to keeping critters in check, these tried-and-true tricks turned my garden into a tomato jackpot. Want to dodge the drama…
I used to toss eggshells without a second thought—until I learned they could actually help my lavender thrive. Now, I crush them up after breakfast and scatter the bits around the base of each plant. It’s such a small habit, but it’s made a noticeable difference in how healthy and full my lavender looks. The…
Container gardening in the heat can be tricky, but with the right plant combos, it turns into a total summer win. I’ve tried a bunch over the years, and these heat-loving pairs and trios never let me down. They’re bold, beautiful, and don’t mind soaking up the sun all season long. If you want your…
Empty spots in the garden used to drive me crazy—until I found a few fast-growing ground covers that took care of them in no time. These plants spread quickly, look great, and make everything feel more pulled together. I’ve also mixed in some favorite perennials that keep the color going long after the ground covers…