Choosing the right mower for you

As the weather continues to warm, it's time to get back outside and start working in the yard again. If your mower is on its last leg, it may be time to invest in a new one, and now is the perfect time to research which unit is right for you. Read More

Give grass a fresh start this spring

Grass is an extraordinary plant, the unsung hero of backyards everywhere. With proper care and feeding, grass can help clean the air, cool the ground, reduce erosion and provide one of the softest outdoor play surfaces. With all of these amazing benefits, it pays to start the spring season off right by giving grass a boost. Read More

Prepare now for a dream summer outdoor living space

Beat the winter blues by taking the first steps to create a summer backyard oasis. By preparing now, you'll be ready to install - and enjoy - a dream deck once warmer weather arrives. Read More

Don't let garden insects destroy the fruits of your labor

Gardeners are familiar with the joy of planting and nurturing flowers, fruits and vegetables to maturity and the bliss of harvesting nature's bounty. One of the few things that can make that bliss turn into annoyance is an infestation of bugs. While many insects are beneficial to the garden, others can be very destructive. Arm yourself with the facts for handling insects in your garden this growing season. Read More

Easy lawn and garden tips for summer

Having a beautiful lawn and garden doesn't mean the work has to be difficult or complicated. With a little planning and the right tools, you'll spend less time working and more time hosting cookouts, lounging in the sun and watching the kids play in the backyard. Here are some top lawn and garden tips that keep work easy. Read More

Tips for installing a vinyl fence the easy way

Chances are installing a backyard fence is a home project that makes you want to run for the hills. After all, who wants to rent power augers, dig deep holes, tear up the yard, remove excavated dirt and pour hundreds of pounds of concrete? Probably not you. The good news is that you can actually install a fence without all this hassle. Read More

Summer entertaining: Spend less time preparing, more time enjoying

There's no question why summer is the best-loved season of the year: it's all about fun, relaxation and enjoying the beautiful outdoors. So, it follows that homeowners don't want to waste a minute of those glorious months of sunshine. When planning traditional summer get-togethers, save time by taking steps to ensure that your outdoor spaces are as low-maintenance as possible so that the focus is on the party, rather than the prep. Read More

Using the 5 senses to discover signs of spring with children

From the moment a groundhog looks for his shadow in February, until the new baby bunnies, chicks and birds appear, the arrival of spring is marked with celebrations and excitement across the country. Teach children to experience Mother Nature using the five senses: touch, taste, sight, smell and sounds. Read More

The stinky truth about a common pest

Warmer, longer days, flowers blooming, birds chirping and the onset of the garden season are all glorious signs that cold weather is behind us. And, while taking in the sights, sounds and smells of Mother Nature at work is refreshing, the good does bring a few, less-than-ideal issues - a major one being stink bugs. Unfortunately, this year may see the largest population of stink bugs across the U.S. to date thanks to the very mild winter weather pattern most of the country experienced. Read More

Time to grow for it: Homegrown on your own

Growing vegetables is easier than you think. Plan it properly, and you can enjoy a healthy, homegrown harvest from the fruits of your labor - without having to spend hours tending it. Read More

Create an upscale deck for less with easy upgrade ideas

Does spending time on your deck "do it for you" - or does your deck simply "do the job?" Now that warm weather has arrived, you'll be outside more; your outdoor space should be an area that you truly enjoy and are proud to show off to company. You may not need a complete deck remodel to achieve that level of perfection. With some smart deck upgrades you can create an upscale look for less. Read More

Get your outdoor space in tip-top shape

Spring has been knocking at the door all winter long. With record-low snow falls behind us and a forecast of more unseasonably-mild days ahead, why not take advantage of the temperate weather and get a jump on your outdoor spring cleaning now? Read More

Summer games in the garden

The sun is shining, birds are singing, butterflies are darting from colorful flower to colorful flower ... and children across the country are complaining about being bored. Eliminate this by taking advantage of the weather. Get the family outside and interact with nature. Read More

The buzz on battling flying, stinging summer bugs

Summer picnic season is upon us, and that means it is time to grab the sunglasses, cooler and sunscreen, and head outdoors. But people are not the only ones who want to enjoy the warm weather. Flying, stinging insects like bees and wasps are abuzz, and make their presence known when collecting pollen and nectar as the weather warms. Read More

All-weather barbecuing: A guide to getting great smokehouse flavor

It's barbecue season, and no one's ever going to complain about a delicious cut of meat cooked over a hot flame, no matter how you slice it. But do you want to merely satisfy your guests' hunger, or have them talking for the rest of the season about that perfectly juicy and tender smoked pork they had at your house - and secretly wondering how to replicate it? Read More

Create a safer retreat for backyard summer fun

Swimming is the most popular summer activity and if you have a pool or spa, your backyard just may be this summer's most popular retreat for friends, neighbors and all the children that come with them. Adding as many water safety steps as possible is the best way to assure a safer and fun experience this summer. Read More

How to get farm fresh eggs straight from your backyard

Fresh, healthy eggs. Natural fertilizer and pest control. A chance to teach your kids the value of growing their own food. These are just some of the reasons backyard chickens have moved from a novelty to a mainstream trend. Whether you're a home chef, a gardener or a parent who believes in providing enriching experiences for your children, now might be the perfect time to consider jumping on the backyard chicken bandwagon. Read More

Do-it-yourself deck-building tips

Looking for a way to enhance the use and enjoyment of your outdoor space? A deck addition may be the solution. A deck creates a designated area for entertaining and relaxing outdoors, while increasing homeowner satisfaction and home value. If you're a motivated do-it-yourselfer, building your own deck can be a fun and rewarding challenge that saves you money and ensures your outdoor space is tailored to suit you and your home. Read More

Four easy steps to jump-start outdoor spring cleaning

If the warmer temperatures, bright sunshine and greening of spring give you the urge to clean, you're not alone. If you want to make spring cleaning easier, especially outdoor spring cleaning, a little planning will save lots of elbow grease. Read More

How to green your outdoor living space

With the housing market still in recovery, many American homeowners are choosing to stay put and renovate. Whether you're updating the home you love or preparing your house for resale when the market finally turns around, your outdoor living space is a great place to start. Read More

Easy, affordable weekend spruce-up projects you can tackle this spring

When it comes to home improvement, most of us have two "to-do" lists: the things we need to do, such as paint the shutters and clean out gutters, and the list of those we want to do, such as fun and easy projects that add visual interest or practical enhancements to the outdoors. Since our budgets for both lists are usually limited, it makes sense to seek out projects that are easy, affordable and that create the most impact in a short amount of time. Read More

Unwind outdoors in comfort and style

With temperatures climbing, it's time to think about getting your outdoor living room ready for summer. Here are some ideas to inspire you, and help make the "great outdoors" even greater. Read More

Buying a new mower this spring? What to look for

Ah, spring! The weather warms, songbirds return and backyards burst with showy spring blooms. Of course, all this resurgence of life will require some care, which means it's also time to start thinking about lawn mowing. If you're in the market for a new mower this spring, here's what you should consider before you buy. Read More

Cool new concepts for gardening

One of the driving forces in gardening is many American's pursuit of healthier eating and greener living. This means that the new face of gardening has begun to change considerably in recent years. Today's gardeners are younger and more urban than traditional gardeners, therefore, making unique impressions on the green world. Read More

Adding or upgrading a deck can transform your backyard into an oasis

A home is a place of comfort and relaxation. Many homeowners are now taking to the outdoors and making this space an extension of the dream home they've always wanted. One way to transform a house into a dream home is by utilizing the outdoor space with the addition of a new deck or improvements to an existing deck. A deck creates the perfect backyard oasis to escape the stresses of a busy lifestyle, to enjoy the outdoors, grill out, have a party or simply relax. With a deck, a couple can celebrate with friends, children can play outside and parents can retire in comfort. Read More

Five simple steps to help homeowners ease into spring projects

Now, while the winter is still around, is the best time for homeowners to get a jump start on planning and prepping for their spring and summer home and garden projects; so when the weather really does warm up, it takes little effort to get the projects underway. In addition to fine-tuning home improvement and gardening plans, it is also a good idea to make certain the required tools are in tip-top shape, so the projects are not delayed. Read More

Use gravity to grow with kids

Gardening creates fun and learning experiences through planting and cultivating seeds for small children who are inquisitive about everything. Feed their curiosity by growing with gravity. Read More

How to use the three Ps of decorating for an instant home and garden makeover

Looking for a trendy home and garden makeover that gives instant gratification and doesn't require a lot of time and resources? The latest trends in fashion and home decorating are drawing inspiration from the bright colors and laid-back attitudes of the tropics. Read More

Simple solutions to common landscaping issues

There's one in every neighborhood - the house with the bright green grass, perfectly trimmed shrubs and flowers in full bloom. As you look at your own lawn, plagued with weeds and sparse patches, you wonder how your neighbor is able to achieve such a beautiful outdoor space. The secret isn't in how much time or money can be invested, but rather taking the right steps at the right time to eliminate lawn and garden problems. Read More

To rid your garden of weeds, focus on the seeds

Every garden is filled with them: millions of unseen weeds. They are dormant seeds that lurk just below the soil surface, ready to spring to life with just the briefest exposure to light. Weeds can choke a garden, robbing it of space, nutrients and water. Allowing weeds to mature compounds the problem, as they are naturally prolific seed producers. They grow aggressively and can be tough to get rid of, because pulling weeds brings more weed seeds to the surface. The good news is that seeds can also be key to winning the war on garden weeds. Read More

Five tips for creating a stadium-style lawn in your own backyard

Many homeowners think a professional-looking lawn requires a stringent water and fertilizer regime. While both water and fertilizer play their part, neither is the stand-alone key to a perfect lawn. These five tips offer homeowners simple solutions to achieving a great yard. Read More

Small, quick repairs have a big impact on your home's curb appeal - and value

As the weather continues to warm, you might be thinking about some of the home improvement projects you put on the back burner during the winter. It's the perfect time to think about a few small projects that can greatly enhance your home's curb appeal. Read More

Gardening tips to avoid injury and discomfort

Gardening is very healthy, both physically and mentally. In addition to providing exercise, gardening delivers health benefits in the fresh foods you eat and in the calming presence of flowers in your environment. Here are some tips to get the most out of gardening's health benefits. Read More

Fresh herbs all year make for great entertaining

Turkey salad with fresh tarragon, crostini spread with homemade pesto and a refreshing mint mojito on a hot summer day. What do these things have in common? Fresh herbs. Whether cooking for a family, entertaining friends after work, or having a romantic cocktail with that special someone, fresh herbs can be the difference between ordinary and extraordinary. Read More

Pointers for prepping your deck and backyard for summer fun

Warm weather is here to stay, which means people everywhere are spending more time outdoors. If the sunshine, gentle breeze and chirping birds are calling your family outside to enjoy some fresh air, it's time to get your outdoor space ready for fun activities. With some smart home improvements, you can easily prep your patio and deck for a full season of enjoyment. Read More

Top deck trends for summer 2012

It's that time of year when homeowners are lured outside by the warm, sunny weather. Is your outdoor space ready to be enjoyed to the fullest? If your deck or patio needs updating, catching up on the top design innovations and trends will help you create an inviting area that will add value to your home investment. Read More

Building project tips that save time and reduce mistakes

AJ Allmendinger, driver of the No. 22 Shell-Pennzoil Dodge, recently acquired a piece of land on which to build a race shop to work on his cars and store his equipment in the offseason. The project has been a learning experience for Allmendinger about the decisions and key steps that are an important part of any endeavor that requires digging. From planning the structure to installing septic and well lines to clearing the ground for digging, Allmendinger has a few tips for others who are planning digging projects. Read More

Celebrate the springtime stress free

Nothing helps celebrate springtime more than a gathering with loved ones. With the season's longer days and warmer weather, hosts and hostesses alike are looking for ways to increase the fun as family and friends get together and cut down on stress. You can do a variety of things in advance to make sure you're prepared for spring holidays, graduation parties and the start of barbecue season. Read More

Make calling 811 a priority before every digging project

Winter is over and warmer weather is finally here. Homeowners can finally put away their snow shovels and venture out into their yards with digging shovels for those long-awaited home improvement projects. All across the country, homeowners and professional excavators alike will start to plan spring home-improvement projects that require digging. During the transition into "digging season," remember hat calling 811 is the first step toward protecting you and your community from the risk of unintentionally damaging an underground line. Read More

Practical 2-for-1 solutions for gardeners

What gardener doesn't find tasks like weeding and watering tiresome? To tackle recurring chores like these and more with greater ease and efficiency, consider some practical tools that offer two-in-one solutions. Read More

Attract hummingbirds to bring excitement to your garden

Tiny, quick, and agile hummingbirds are loved by birdwatchers young and old. Their large appetites, their territorial nature at feeders, and their helicopter-like hovering fascinate many, as well as their ability to travel thousands of miles with such little wings. The hummingbird migration, where they fly south in the fall and return back north in the spring, is an event that is highly regarded as one of nature's most amazing journeys. Read More

Help kids learn by growing a windowsill garden

A child's awe while watching a seed germinate and grow into a healthy plant with beautiful flowers or a delicious vegetable is something very special. Their sense of accomplishment expands when the flowers they grew are arranged in a beautiful bouquet or their vegetables are shared in a family dinner. Read More

Spring cleaning for your backyard pond

Bird feeder battles: Winning the war against squirrels

For bird lovers, the sight of a bushy tail hanging off the side of a feeder means just one thing: war. It's possible to discourage squirrels - and even outsmart them - with the right seed mix and some nature-friendly squirrel-control tactics. Read More

'Bold and beautiful' define this season's outdoor decor trends

Bold is the watchword for beautiful outdoor decorating this year, and it's easy to find items - from furniture to wallpaper - that play to this theme. Read More

Create a tropic escape in your own backyard

Yearning to escape to a tropical paradise? This spring, look no further than your own backyard to capture the romance of the tropics and create a sense of optimism to lift your spirits. Read More

The guy's guide to mulch

One of the manly rites of spring, designed to impress the neighbors, is a fresh layer of mulch. But, did you know that it can also help prevent erosion and discourage weeds in the garden? Mulch is an invaluable ingredient to a successful growing season - so much more than shredded bark sprinkled around the base of an ornamental tree each spring. Get the facts on mulch to impress all the neighbors and have a great looking landscape to boot. Read More

How to make your salad the life of the summer party

As summer approaches, you're more inclined to opt for fresher foods and simpler meals. But lighter fare doesn't mean a boring bed of lettuce. There are plenty of delicious ways to get creative with your leafy greens, making your salad the star of the cookout. Read More

Go farther and play harder with your summer big kid toys

The summer season is a great time to bring out the big kid toys. Out come the boats, lawn mowers, four wheelers, dirt bikes and all-terrain vehicles for plenty of fun and excitement all summer long. While summer doesn't have all the freezing, thawing or salt of colder months, which can cause a bit of havoc on equipment, it's still a good idea to protect your toys and gear from the elements so they go farther, and you can play harder. Read More

Save time and energy with tips for smart home improvement

The weather is warm and the sun is shining, making it the perfect time to start your home improvement projects. Whether it's a little tidying up, or a full-on home repair, some tips will help you complete your projects without a lot of headaches. Read More

Ingenious gadgets keep smart gardeners playing in the dirt

Gardeners who like things easy, have mobility issues or get muscle fatigue are always on the lookout for smart gardening gadgets designed to keep them playing in the dirt. This season some of the best gardening gadgets are ingenious and, often low-tech, doing the job they're designed to do brilliantly without added fuss or bother. Read More

How to get rid of deer before they devour your yard and garden

Deer are the poster critters of natural adaptability. As suburbia has encroached on their wild habitat, deer have adjusted easily, finding plenty to eat in residential landscapes. Several methods can be effective in deterring deer, including the use of repellents. Read More

Up in smoke: Don't let a grilling mishap ruin your cookout

Grilling is an American tradition and summertime staple. Most of the time, grilling cookouts go off without a hitch but accidents can and do happen. Each year, grilling related accidents send an estimated 20,000 people to the emergency room and cause a reported $75 million in property damage. It's smart to know these basic tips for safe grilling. Read More