Cool, wet weather might be a reprieve after summer heat. But for your garden, it’s prime time for disease outbreaks. Moisture and lower temperatures create the optimal environment for fungal and bacterial infections to thrive. It doesn’t matter if your plants are healthy. When leaves stay wet for hours, every plant is susceptible. Knowing which…
7 Cold Frames That Keep Lettuce Growing Longer
Fall frosts don’t have to end your salad season. With the right cold frame, you can extend lettuce production well into winter. Cold frames act like mini greenhouses, trapping daytime warmth and protecting tender greens from overnight freezes. Even simple designs can raise soil temperatures just enough to keep cool-weather crops thriving. Whether you’re growing…
How Fall Rainfall Impacts Soil Compaction
Autumn brings lovely cooler air and falling leaves. But the fall can have implications for your garden, lawn, and crops. Heavier rains reshape the ground beneath them. As fields and lawns absorb moisture, soil particles shift and settle, sometimes locking together too tightly. This phenomenon, known as soil compaction, can limit root growth, block oxygen,…
Why Some Bulbs Fail if Planted Too Late in Fall
As the leaves start to fall, fall bulb planting promises a burst of color come spring. But timing is everything. If the air is getting crisp, you may be running out of time. Many gardeners assume they can plant bulbs right up until the ground freezes, but late planting often dooms bulbs before they ever…
7 Cover Crops Every Garden Needs This Season
Have you heard of cover crops? While farmers usually use these during the off-season to protect soil, gardeners usually overlook this tool. Healthy soil is the backbone of every thriving garden and cover crops are the secret weapon too many gardeners ignore. These hardworking plants protect against erosion, feed the soil, suppress weeds, and boost…
9 Weeds That Spread Toxic Pollen Without Warning
Allergy season is in full swing. Do your eyes water and itch the second you step outside? While you’re stocking up on tissues, you may not realize that the culprit is right under your feet. Your garden may be the source of all your discomfort. Many common yard invaders release clouds of highly allergenic pollen…
8 DIY Sprays That Experts Say Cause More Harm Than Help
If you’re trying to save money on gardening, you may be tempted to try DIY solutions. It’s fair, since DIY culture has exploded in recent years. In seconds, you can find countless online recipes for homemade sprays promising to clean, deodorize, or protect your home and garden. While many of these mixtures sound perfectly fine,…
10 Times a Garden Upgrade Became a Legal Nightmare
Upgrading your garden is probably something you saved for and put time and effort into. But what if we told you that your efforts could turn into a legal nightmare? Property lines blur, drainage shifts, and suddenly a friendly neighbor becomes a furious plaintiff. Cities have sightline laws you’ve never heard of; HOAs have pages…
6 Hidden Pest Infestations That Start in the Backyard
Most homeowners think of their backyards as safe havens and refuges. But many pest infestations begin quietly right outside the home. While pests outside can easily be contained, once they enter your home, they can cause costly damage. Here are six hidden pest infestations that start in your backyard. Plus, what to look for to…
7 Innocent-Looking Shrubs That Harbor Invasive Insects
Many homeowners plant shrubs for privacy or curb appeal. While they are relatively low-maintenance, there is a hidden cost. Some shrubs, while attractive, quietly attract or shelter invasive insects. These insects can damage not only the plant itself but also nearby gardens, trees, and ecosystems. Ultimately, it creates a headache for you. Here we’ll highlight…