Forsythia Bushes

There are few things that herald in spring like the forsythia bush. Its bright yellow flowers announce to the world that warmer temperatures are here and on their way. What a nice way to wake up to spring. And that is just what forsythia does. One day, the landscape is still gray and brown, and the next day, it shows a profusion of bright color. Forsythia bushes have many uses in a landscape. Very often, they are used to mark property borders. In the spring, summer and fall, forsythia bushes can be used as a privacy fence, especially when the … Continue reading →

Yard Work… Now?

When the weather is still cold and unpredictable, most of us are not putting yard work at the top of the “to do” list. However, there are some things we can -and should- do this time of year. For those who hire out to have yard work done, this is a good time to make arrangements. It’s not good to wait until the grass really, really needs to be cut to schedule mowing. Many lawn services and landscapers will be booked in advanced and will continue receiving calls as the weather grows warmer. Not only will you be able to … Continue reading →

Look at all the Birds!

As cold as it’s been, I walked outside just now to see my yard filled with birds. We feed them and enjoy watching them regularly, but this was an event. It was as if they planned a meeting and all showed up at once. It was unusual to see so many, and so many different types, all gathered together. It gives me hope that Spring will be here soon, if all the birds are coming back. Our winter birds have been with us throughout, but today there were others. We like to look them up online to identify them. We … Continue reading →

When to Use a Leaf Blower

Wondering if you should purchase and use a leaf blower this year? Leaf blowers can be a great time and labor saver when it comes to cleaning up the leaves around your home. But there are times when using a leaf blower might not be the best decision. Other methods, such as mulching or raking can be better. Here are some tips that will help you maximize the payback from a leaf blower, including guidelines as to when and wear to use it. The past few weeks have been leaf blower mania for me. What might have taken hours for … Continue reading →

Mulching Leaves

I know, there is an old saying, “Don’t try to tidy up nature.” Well, I actually don’t know if it is old or not, but I have been saying it for years. In this neck of the woods, it is definitely time for the Fall leaf clean up. The leaves are everywhere, much to the delight of my three children, who take the opportunity to jump in the piles as soon as they are formed. Of course, all of those colorful leaves have to be picked up eventually or disposed of in some way. Here in the Home Blog, we’ll … Continue reading →

Should I Burn Leaves?

Before you decide to burn leaves, please take some things into consideration. First, it may very well be illegal in your area or you may be under a temporary burn ban if it’s been unusually dry. Also, please consider how easily such fires can get out of hand. For those that do burn, please keep a hose nearby and call your fire department in advance to let them know you intend to burn. Burning leaves (or other trash) also causes pollution. Certainly, this doesn’t come as a surprise. However, some people may not realize the health issues burning leaves and … Continue reading →

Prepare your Yard for Autumn and beyond

As summer fades away, there are several things you can do to prepare your yard and garden for autumn and beyond. Begin with mowing, edging, and getting rid of weeds. Even weeds that are dying from the August heat can make your yard look uncared for and unattractive. They don’t always wither completely away, so it’s best to pull them or break out the weed eater. If your garden is no longer producing, but is looking a bit overgrown, you may want to go over it with the mower or weed whacker too. Then, gather all your clippings and spread … Continue reading →

A Yard Project the Kids will Like Too

Add some color and texture to your yard or garden that can also double as a fun project, and later a game for the kids. You will need nine concrete stepping stones, each 1’square foot in size (you can use larger stones if desired, or for a large yard). Stepping stones are available at most garden centers or home improvement stores for a couple of dollars each. You will also need two different colors of paint, specially formulated for painting stone or concrete. Choose bright colors that coordinate with the exterior of your home or with some colors found in … Continue reading →

Your Yard: Outdoor Areas for Pets

Is your pet outside often? Try these tips. Your Yard Most pets will develop certain habits over time, such as urinating and defecating in the same area. This can create mess and odor and it’s certainly not fun to clean up but it’s better than having these elements all over the yard. If your pet doesn’t have a spot, it is possible to train your pet to stay in the same area. Another handy way to deal with the problem is to keep a bucket of sand handy. Some people use kitty litter even for dogs. Cover the waste and … Continue reading →

Yard and Garden: Controlling Snakes

Even if you don’t live out in the country, you may encounter snakes in your yard or garden. There are various types of snakes, many of which are not only harmless but may also be beneficial. They tend to eat other pests. Still, it is wise to avoid contact with snakes since you may not know which ones are dangerous. Pit vipers have triangle shaped heads with a “dent” or pit between the eyes and should always be avoided. Watch where you step and don’t reach into piles with bare hands. Use a rake or a shovel to reach in … Continue reading →