GARDENING 101

There’s something magical about raised bed gardens — neat rows, happy plants, and soil that feels just right. But sometimes, the dream hits a snag. …

Got trees casting too much shade and leaving your yard with bare, lifeless patches? Been there—those spots felt like the garden’s no-man’s-land. But then I …

Growing colorful flowers doesn’t have to drain your wallet. When I first tried growing impatiens from seed, I was amazed at how much money I …

Some outdoor projects seem harmless—until you find out they break local codes and come with a fine. I’ve had my fair share of “oops” moments, …

When it comes to planting perennials, not all neighbors play nice. Some pairings are a recipe for disaster — turning your garden from a dream …

Gardening should be fun, not stressful! I’ve killed plenty of plants by following propagation instructions to the letter, only to watch them shrivel anyway. Meanwhile, …

Begonias are beautiful, but some can be sneaky troublemakers in the garden. I’ve had a few take over spots I never meant them to, and …

I used to see weeds as nothing but trouble—until I discovered they can actually help my garden thrive. Turning those pesky invaders into homemade fertilizer …

Craving a backyard bursting with juicy rewards? You’re just a few trees away. Whether you’ve got a green thumb or you’re just testing the waters, …

Growing zucchini can be incredibly rewarding, and with the right approach, you’ll be harvesting plenty of tasty squash all season long. From classic garden beds …

Shade doesn’t mean your garden has to miss out on beauty and color. These 23 shade-loving perennials are real game-changers, ready to brighten up those …

Who says your plants can’t be as stylish as you are? These 34 chic containers are here to elevate your garden game and add a …

Tomatoes can be a bit high-maintenance, but pairing them with the right plants makes all the difference. Some garden friends help tomatoes grow stronger and …

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve pulled up weeds that weren’t even mine to begin with. They creep over from the neighbor’s yard …

I used to forget to water my plants all the time—until I found out ice cubes could do the job for me. Just pop one …

Ever feel like you’re bending over backward for your lawn, but something’s still not clicking? It’s those sneaky slip-ups—the ones that fly under the radar—that …

Why spend money on soil tests when your garden is already talking? Certain plants act like living indicators, revealing exactly what your soil is missing—no …

If you think growing food means chasing the sun all day, think again. Shade-loving edible plants are total game-changers for those cozy patios and snug …

Tomatoes that burst with flavor and sweetness? Yes, please! If you’re ready to grow the juiciest, most delicious tomatoes, I’ve got you covered with 31 …

Mulch is the unsung hero of every thriving garden—skip it, and you’re missing a trick! It locks in moisture, keeps weeds at bay, and gives …

Living in the Sunshine State means embracing both relentless heat and sticky humidity throughout much of the year. Thankfully, nature provides plenty of gorgeous greenery …

If your Peace lily’s giving you leaves but no flowers, don’t fret—we’re here to help it bloom where it’s planted! Too much water, too little …

I used to think my mower just wasn’t up for the job—turns out, it was the blade begging for a sharpen. If your grass looks …

Starting garden tasks too soon has definitely caught me off guard more than once. It’s tempting to jump in and get things moving, but sometimes …

Summer veggies can be stubborn sometimes, looking droopy or just not producing like you hoped. I’ve had plenty of moments staring at my plants, wondering …

Amish gardeners have been quietly growing some of the healthiest plants around, using old-school methods that feel like a secret garden code. I’ve been amazed …

Some plants look great but come with a hidden “high-maintenance” warning label I wish I’d seen sooner. I’ve had my share of battles with sneaky …

Growing food without pesticides sounded tricky at first—until I found out how many natural tricks actually work. Over the years, I’ve tried everything from companion …

Want zinnias that steal the spotlight this summer? The secret lies in the prep you do right now. From soil tweaks to smart pruning, these …

Not all fruit trees and shrubs play nice in the garden. Some compete for nutrients, attract the same pests, or even stunt each other’s growth. …

If your flowers are struggling no matter how much love you give them, your soil might be the real culprit. From compacted beds to nutrient …

Ground cover plants offer a lush, living alternative to traditional mulch, bringing both beauty and practicality to your garden. These low-growing wonders don’t just fill …

Growing strawberries sounds simple, but one little slip can send your whole crop downhill fast. From overwatering to picking too late, these common mistakes sneak …

For me—and most gardeners—hydrangea season is pure magic. These show-stoppers steal the spotlight in any garden bed, pot, or border. The best part? They’re low-maintenance …

Garden enthusiasts know that the right plant pairings can make all the difference between a so-so garden and one that truly dazzles. Summer phlox, with …

Grass can be a little dramatic sometimes—one day it’s lush, the next it’s patchy and sad. I’ve run into my fair share of weird spots, …

Shady garden corners used to leave me stumped. Sure, they’re great for beating the heat, but for plants? Not so much. A few seasons back, …

Summer gardens often struggle when temperatures climb, leaving many perennials wilting under the scorching sun. Veronica, with its spiky blue-purple blooms, stands strong even when …

Double planters are my favorite garden trick—they’re easy, stylish, and make a big impact out front. I started using them when one lonely pot just …

There’s something magical about a tiny Japanese maple with fiery leaves and elegant branches. I still remember shaping my first one—it was part art project, …