![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/rustic-fence-slats.jpg\")
The calming sensation that is given off on an afternoon stroll through the woods is relaxing and mutually energizing. The look and feel of the rustic outdoors is one of the latest trends in decorating, with more designers incorporating earth tones and patterns, warm lighting, and natural textures. It can easily be adopted into any […]
\n","content":"The calming sensation that is given off on an afternoon stroll through the woods is relaxing and mutually energizing. The look and feel of the rustic outdoors is one of the latest trends in decorating, with more designers incorporating earth tones and patterns, warm lighting, and natural textures. It can easily be adopted into any home, giving it a more energizing and comfortable appeal. Here are a few ways to incorporate rustic nature into your space.
\n
Wood is one of the most symbolic natural elements there is. Wooden floors provide a nice base for a rustic home. Generally speaking, the darker and wider the planks the more authentic, as they provide a neutral approach for the rest of the home’s rustic design. Similarly, you can also incorporate wooden beams to help remind your visitors of nature at its finest.
\nWood can also be used as a finish or as a building material, it’s the most evocative of true nature. Bringing wood into the home, through floors, walls, furniture, or other items, has the ability to truly transform your home into a rustic retreat.
\nIf you don’t already have a fireplace, this one can be a more costly upgrade. However, fireplaces add a homey, comforting warmth to a home. Whether built out of stone, brick, or rock, fireplaces are integral to a truly rustic home. What’s more woodsy than a wood burning fire? For a true touch of nature, the mantles can be decorated with pieces, such as pine cones or antlers.
\nMore than often, this outdoor inspired style trend tends to incorporate wildlife, through taxidermy, antlers, furs, or hides. The best replicas to use are those that would be found in a woodland habitat, such as deer, bear, fox, cow, or sheep. These features and textiles are sure to make your visitors feel as though they’ve just stepped outside into a peaceful and comfortable space. Faux hides and furs provide eco-friendly alternatives to this design element.
\nWoven baskets not only add texture, they make for simplistic storage solutions, helping to hide any unsightly items. Use baskets as a way to store logs near the fireplace, hide any pet toys, or even a cute place to store throw blankets.
\nBring in literal elements of the outdoors as well–if you happen to find an characterized rock, shell, or branch. Items as such make for an eye catching display in bowls, baskets, or on shelves.
\nIncorporate accents and fixtures that call to mind the wilderness. Consider a driftwood chandelier, a coffee table made out of reclaimed barn wood, or even incorporate a birch-bark wrapped candle.
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/rustic-flower-elements.jpg\")
Greenery doesn’t have to be artificial and covered with a sheen of dust–bring nature indoors by adding living plants. This is also a great thing to do in the cooler months anyways when temperatures reach 45 degrees–if you want to prolong the life of any favorites! For low-maintenance indoor gardening, consider succulents or rock gardens, they require dry soil and little water to thrive in. These are easy plant additions to give your home a rustic appeal and to improve your overall health with an increase in indoor air quality.
\nWhile rustic decor tends to incorporate warm, blending shades of various colors, natural light helps to illuminate those features. Natural light helps any room come alive and brings out the most natural elements of your decor. Open up the energy in the space by drawing the drapes when the sun has passed it’s peak for the side of the home.
\nAlthough a branch can provide a beautiful pop of character when hung on your wall, you don’t have to limit your artwork to rustic items you find outside. Incorporate earthy artwork comprised of botanical or Audubon prints to help draw together your home’s decor.
\nOne of the most important pieces of rustic decor is one that is often overlooked, adding in the scents of nature. A wood-burning fireplace gives your home a heady, smoky scent, while burning essential oils in a diffuser can add to the outdoor ambiance of your home. Consider incorporating smells like lavender, cedar, and balsam to remind your visitors of the calming outdoors each time they set foot inside your home.
\n","title":"Incorporating Rustic Nature into Your Decor","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5,"src":"/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/5fa88/rustic-garden-shed.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/107df/rustic-garden-shed.jpg 320w,\n/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/293e9/rustic-garden-shed.jpg 500w,\n/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/5fa88/rustic-garden-shed.jpg 510w","srcWebp":"/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/0edbe/rustic-garden-shed.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/67b76/rustic-garden-shed.webp 320w,\n/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/8df11/rustic-garden-shed.webp 500w,\n/static/5eb7b57677354356c11295fa35384ae0/0edbe/rustic-garden-shed.webp 510w","sizes":"(max-width: 510px) 100vw, 510px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Incorporating Rustic Nature into Your Decor | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}},"relatedPosts":[{"node":{"id":"854e8d74-58ed-5216-8d94-56a59594746c","slug":"10-best-vines-to-grow-in-your-garden","path":"/gardening-tips/10-best-vines-to-grow-in-your-garden/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"9d2e17fb-2d94-54d0-842f-ab7f7fc9f750","name":"Gardening Tips","count":3,"path":"/category/gardening-tips/"},{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"}],"date":"February 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Thunbergia (Black-eyed Susan) Known for its bright yellow flowers, Black-eyed Susan is an easy to grow vine. It prefers a moist but well-drained soil under bright sunlight. Black-eyed Susan can be easily trained to twine up fences, walls, pergolas, and privacy screens in a garden, deck or backyard. This lovely vine can grow up to […]
\n","content":"Known for its bright yellow flowers, Black-eyed Susan is an easy to grow vine. It prefers a moist but well-drained soil under bright sunlight. Black-eyed Susan can be easily trained to twine up fences, walls, pergolas, and privacy screens in a garden, deck or backyard. This lovely vine can grow up to 5 feet and produces attractive flowers in early or mid-fall. Some varieties also bear orange, white, blue and violet flowers.
\nPopular varieties include Thunbergia alata (yellow, orange and white flowers) and Thunbergia grandiflora (violet flowers).
\nClematis are one of the widely planted and the best vines to grow in gardens. They are popular for their attractive flowers that come in many different shades of red, pink, yellow, blue, purple and white. Clematis are usually easy to grow in a warm and sunny spot but they can tolerate spells of cold when protected from chilling winds and frost. The spring bloomers can be trained to twine up trellis and pergolas. The vine can grow up to 15 feet or more. A large number of varieties varying in size, growing habit and color of flowers are available for gardeners and horticulturists.
\nParthenocissus is a small genus of climbing vines from the family of grapes. These fast-growing plants are the best vines to grow against a wall, fence, or almost any other structure in your garden that you want to cover or hide. These clinging vines can easily attach themselves to almost any surface with abundant and beautiful foliage. Most species of Parthenocissus benefit from bright sunlight and a well-drained soil. Popular species include Parthenocissus quinquefolia (also know as Virgina Creeper) and Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Boston Ivy).
\n","title":"10 Best Vines to Grow in Your Garden","featured_media":null,"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"10 Best Vines to Grow in Your Garden | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"f9879681-f5b4-5ed2-93df-bd0a0ed130bc","slug":"tired-of-traditional-turf-try-a-grass-alternative","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/tired-of-traditional-turf-try-a-grass-alternative/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Max Mustermann","id":"38f26ae5-e768-550f-a948-33b5a37f67de","path":"/author/roblawnstarter-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/7f12ece9fc89be73ee3b329da1a4eb0c?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"5bb57152-2e9b-5822-a133-bc84c122adab","name":"Landscaping","count":42,"path":"/category/blog/landscaping/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"October 15th, 2019","excerpt":"Traditional lawns are part of the American dream — an ocean of green covering nearly 2% of our nation’s area. But at what cost? Americans view the hassle of mowing, fertilizing, irrigation, and pest control our lawns demand as the price we pay for flawless turfgrass. The net effect is a bit grim. Cristina Milesi, […]
\n","content":"\nTraditional lawns are part of the American dream — an ocean of green covering nearly 2% of our nation’s area. But at what cost? Americans view the hassle of mowing, fertilizing, irrigation, and pest control our lawns demand as the price we pay for flawless turfgrass. The net effect is a bit grim.
\n\n\n\nCristina Milesi, a NASA researcher who studies lawn area, says, “I estimate there are three times more acres of lawns in the U.S. than irrigated corn.” Her figures reveal turfgrass is the largest crop in America. “Each family may have only a small lawn,” she explains, “but once you add them all up, they have a big impact.”
\n\n\n\nGrass is needy. It needs a mower to manage its length and an edger to tidy its margins. It thrives in full sun and struggles in shady areas. It hungers for fertilizer and thirsts for water. In short, maintaining a grass lawn means spending a lot of time and money on lawn care.
\n\n\n\nThere are lawn alternatives that are low-maintenance and need less water than a traditional lawn. Here’s a selection of lawn replacements that can save you time and make your yard more eco-friendly.
\n\n\n\nTurfgrass isn’t all bad: It absorbs carbon dioxide and helps prevent erosion. But the non-native varieties used in the traditional lawn take large volumes of water and fertilizer. Native grasses thrive on poor soil, are drought-tolerant, and don’t mind partial shade. The best part? They require little maintenance.
\n\n\n\nThe most common native is buffalo grass (pictured above), a bunch-type grass that once dominated the Plains. Others include bluestem, blue grama and switchgrass. Contact your local county extension agent to see what the most common varieties or blends do best in your area.
\n\n\n\nIf your goal is to reduce lawn maintenance, consider a product like No-Mow-Grass. There are two blends sold commercially under the No-Mow brand. One is a fescue mix for Northern areas where it freezes, and the other is a buffalo grass mix for hot, dry Southern climes. Despite the name, No-Mow-Grass needs mowing once a year in late spring or fall. Like any turf grass that sees heavy foot traffic, No-Mow lawns benefit from a core aeration every couple of years.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/creeping-jenny-groundcover-peter-stevens-cc20.jpg\")
Not all grass alternatives are green. Using mulch, gravel, or even artificial turf to cover large areas of the yard can be aesthetically pleasing and are obviously shade and drought tolerant as can be. The jury is still out on whether artificial grass is a good alternative to turfgrass. Mulch is a fine addition to garden and flower beds because it helps to control weeds, retains soil moisture, and breaks down over time, adding nutrients to the soil.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/QlUzeqrntDZ8N_UfSNMSnnSunjCk2zWaeLEju6OOX3xGIPgKHDk4cfVcuRJl0yRafKRgaV06H3XNxfOpBaQLSq4vYOmFq9Y_Moa9G6WpBF5OKfQ3ggWjzRvhJMxGPOlEfttDpQOn\")
Offering compact, thick green growth, Dutch white clover is a perfect lawn replacement. Its root system generates nitrogen, reducing the need for fertilizing. You can achieve a more drought-tolerant lawn that requires less mowing by encouraging the growth of existing white clover patches. A mixed turfgrass and clover lawn can take heavy foot traffic better than a solid clover lawn.
\n\n\n\nThe bottom line? There’s no reason to support a needy front lawn when so many shade-loving lawn replacements exist. Find your groove, make your changes, and pat yourself on the back for doing your part to make the world a little greener.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: “Buffalo grass” by CAJC: in the PNW is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
\n","title":"Tired of Traditional Turf? Try a Grass Alternative","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.439278937381404,"src":"/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/1789c/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.jpg","srcSet":"/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/107df/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.jpg 320w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/293e9/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.jpg 500w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/f2cbb/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.jpg 800w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/1789c/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.jpg 960w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/e0195/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.jpg 1517w","srcWebp":"/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/1dd6e/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/67b76/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.webp 320w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/8df11/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.webp 500w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/98a65/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.webp 800w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/1dd6e/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.webp 960w,\n/static/fffe31371e63fda79da4e920147a5ea0/bab36/rsz_buffalograss-carol-jacobs-carre-ccbysa20.webp 1517w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Tired of Traditional Turf? Try a Grass Alternative | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"f608fbe5-2120-5d01-a50c-a9820f45fa6e","slug":"difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/difference-between-dead-and-dormant-grass/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jill Ramone is a landscaper who specializes in designing sustainable yards for busy homeowners. She prides herself on using eco-friendly products to control weeds and pests.","name":"Jill Ramone","id":"4c71091e-0a16-561f-8bdf-528214955c18","path":"/author/jillramone/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/0caf6c31bc9563a294dd509633a793c6?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"October 9th, 2019","excerpt":"Grass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant? Before taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a […]
\n","content":"\nGrass can go kaput any time of year. The hot, dry conditions of summer can leave grass brown and unappealing. Winter snow mold and thatch buildup can leave your grass with dead spots. But is it really dead? Or just dormant?
\n\n\n\nBefore taking any action, it’s worth your time to determine if you have a dead lawn or just one that’s taking a nap. You don’t want to rip up a living lawn. Nor do you want to waste time mowing, watering, fertilizing, and trying to revive grass that isn’t coming back.
\n\n\n\nDead grass and dormant grass look much the same. It can be tough to tell the difference, but here’s what the experts say about discerning dead from dormant.
\n\n\n\nDeath is final. But dormancy, while it can look similar, is your lawn’s natural reaction to stress. Even warm-season grasses may turn brown due to the stress of summer’s hot, dry conditions.
\n\n\n\nIf less than half your lawn is dead or you can see surviving green shoots among the brown, crunchy blades of grass, it’s worth a try to save it. It will be less costly than re-sodding the entire lawn. Aerate the lawn. Power aerators work best. Rent one if you don’t own one. Raking the yard will help remove much of the dead grass. Be sure to take up thatch and other debris. Add new grass seed where needed and fertilize and water.
\n\n\n\nIf the entire lawn is dead, there’s no way to save it. It’s time to start over by re-seeding or re-sodding the entire area.
\n\n\n\nDormancy is a lawn’s reaction to heat and a lack of water. The plant gives all its resources to the roots, rather than the leaves. While brown grass may not look very appealing, dormancy is normal and usually lasts around four weeks. As the season’s change and weather conditions become more ideal for grass, your healthy lawn should return. Still, there are some things you can do to push it along a bit.
\n\n\n\nStay away from weed killers and herbicides during dormancy. It can damage already stressed lawns, and it may turn out insects weren’t the problem after all. Kelley Klopp of the Utah State Extension office says, “It is often difficult to diagnose insect problems when the grass is dormant. Be certain you are dealing with an insect problem before using insecticides, and always read and follow label directions.”
\n\n\n\n![\"Watering](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Andw9lRYwcV2ira3fBZXtJbm0tik_FO1QDPhsTv36DbNUSEpQ8J3EOf6TygqImw1exrMUgvfHpHPH5_7qseCijSk4J0Cv2psjB1jEMRWalCOjdiTAx1Q8oKuPuueIeeaUoGrqmHW\")
You can change the design of your yard to help your lawn make it through a drought. Reduce the setting on your mower blades and keep the grass a bit longer. Reduce slopes, if possible, so water doesn’t run downhill and off the grass. Put a greater distance between trees and shrubs and prune regularly, keeping shade to a minimum. And add good topsoil, if necessary.
\n\n\n\nAlso, consider the climate where you live and choose an appropriate turfgrass. Cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and tall fescue, thrive in temperatures between 68 and 77 degrees. Building a lawn from these varieties in a hot, dry climate can send them into dormancy early. It can also cause the grass to die. They fare much better in northern parts of the country.
\n\n\n\nWarm-season grasses work well in temperatures of 80 to 95 degrees, as they’re more drought-tolerant. They include Bermuda grass, Buffalo grass, and Zoysia grass, one of the better turfgrasses for hot climates. These lawns are usually started from sod, as they are more challenging to grow from grass seed than cool-season types.
\n\n\n\nBefore you ask “Why is my lawn dying?” make sure it’s not just taking a nap. With a little TLC (tender lawn care,) you’ll have a green lawn again before you know it.
Keeping a lawn healthy and green through the height of a hot summer, is hard enough. It gets even harder if you live in a drought-prone area such as Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, or Texas. That’s why xeriscape landscaping is so popular in those areas. Xeriscaping doesn’t mean you have to fill your yard with cacti; […]
\n","content":"\nKeeping a lawn healthy and green through the height of a hot summer, is hard enough. It gets even harder if you live in a drought-prone area such as Colorado, Arizona, Nevada, or Texas. That’s why xeriscape landscaping is so popular in those areas. Xeriscaping doesn’t mean you have to fill your yard with cacti; it just means you use plants and landscaping that needs little water. So if you’re ready to give up those water-hungry plants and lower your monthly water bill, join the crowd.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/1a-vG2kR6WgTmvVLrtHGejLDqaXJP7j2caONyxpIKfaY03T4HnZ3oBoykjLVJghuVhJDwX-4j3Q65fY9n-qnuvSwzp47hMKKBDboA6msh62_4igT70m74vd0WECRDRi5yHHlR39X\")
The term “xeriscape” comes from the Greek word “xeros,” meaning dry. Denver Water, the city’s utility service, coined and copyrighted the word in the 1980s when Colorado was experiencing a worse-than-usual drought. The water department looked at the soil in most yards, (clay soil doesn’t absorb water quickly), and the types of sprinkler systems people were using. The city began by offering rebates to people who used drip irrigation and turfgrass that requires little water. You’ll notice by the front of the office, the utility practices what it preaches.
\n\n\n\n“Traditional Kentucky bluegrass is lush and hardy, but it requires a substantial amount of water in our semi-arid climate,” according to Denver Water. “One way to use less water is to reduce the amount of bluegrass turf in your landscape. Native or low-water-use plants, patios, decks, or mulches can beautify your landscape while saving water. Also, try planting turf such as buffalo grass, blue grama grass, turf-type tall fescue, and fine fescues to reduce water use in your landscape.”
\n\n\n\nThe North Marin Water District, which provides water to Novato and other communities just north of San Francisco, offers a “Cash for Grass” program that pays rebates to customers who remove lawns and plant approved low-water plants instead. In 2019, almost 15,000 square feet of turfgrass were converted.
\n\n\n\nThe district also saw xeriscaping as a way to stop people from fertilizing their lawns and gardens. Native plants and grasses are adapted to the soil, so they need few amendments. What little they need can be provided by grass clippings and other organic matter … things that won’t harm the ocean or waterways.
\n\n\n\nAs long as you’re making your lawn water-wise, go a step further and make your garden more efficient. Plant drought-resistant plants such as agave, juniper, yarrow, and lavender. Many herbs and spices are also drought-tolerant, such as thyme, sage, and oregano. The native and drought-tolerant plants will also attract local wildlife and pollinators to your garden.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/ZEhlju3G6ZCAaw6jn0gF2iZIqU1ztxS2JYJ6ajV9qWS-KrBC-xAfbEPjHrfGxAVLpjz0WqDPWLQqTkfa_foDgJQcwANxKrtTtNGVAQxl5yDwbCgOuaV0Z-am26dM57JqO8OkkT2L\")
If you’re ready to take the plunge and xeriscape, don’t rush out and dig up all your flowers and turf. Start by mapping out your yard, noting where the shade trees are and which areas get the most sun. It’s also a good idea to see how much rainfall your yard gets in a typical year. You want plants that will thrive with the water nature provides.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re not crazy about drought-tolerant grasses, consider a rock garden or mulched border around your patio and yard. Mulching around trees and plants helps keep moisture from absorbing. Plant ground covers around sloped areas to prevent any water from running off. While a completely hardscaped backyard may sound appealing, check with your city or county. Some municipalities, including Austin, Texas, require a percentage of your land to be landscaped, to prevent rainwater from pouring into the street.
\n\n\n\nThe Environmental Protection Agency estimates that as much as 50% of irrigation water usage is wasted. By opting for a xeriscaped yard, you can save hundreds of gallons of water from being squandered over just one scorching summer. So go ahead and plant a cactus and other succulents. Your lawn will look sharp for years to come.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Downtowngal, CC-by SA-3.0
\n","title":"Benefits of Xeriscaping Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.549636803874092,"src":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1789c/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/107df/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 320w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/293e9/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 500w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/f2cbb/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 800w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1789c/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 960w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/356ef/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1dd6e/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/67b76/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 320w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/8df11/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 500w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/98a65/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 800w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/1dd6e/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 960w,\n/static/1a560cb647dca998e80837d4991465b5/93f70/1280px-Xeriscape_2_Hidden_Meadows.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Benefits of Xeriscaping Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"cef80600-2c2e-53c8-9a06-e868a2500049","slug":"5-rustic-decor-diy-projects-for-your-outdoor-space","path":"/home-garden/5-rustic-decor-diy-projects-for-your-outdoor-space/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Wikilawn","id":"706a455e-0b9c-56ea-aeed-4f411c6c1973","path":"/author/wikilawn/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/fd0301960c52ded452e0b5fc145cb264?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"}],"date":"September 19th, 2018","excerpt":"There are plenty of reasons to decorate your outdoor space with DIY backyard projects that you can easily do at home. Choosing a rustic theme is the perfect blend of shabby and chic to withstand the outdoor elements. Creating rustic décor for your outdoor space is just one creative way to decorate your outdoor living […]
\n","content":"There are plenty of reasons to decorate your outdoor space with DIY backyard projects that you can easily do at home. Choosing a rustic theme is the perfect blend of shabby and chic to withstand the outdoor elements. Creating rustic décor for your outdoor space is just one creative way to decorate your outdoor living space. Check out these projects that you can easily make yourself to add some rustic décor beauty to your outdoor area:
\nYou may have seen this project all around town and there is a reason why they are so popular! Pallet flags not only show pride in our country but also add beautiful color to a green space. Pick up a pallet from a store in town or ask some friends who may have some connections. Pick up small sampler cans of red, white, and blue paint along with a paintbrush or two. Paint the pallet to look like an American flag with red and white stripes along with a blue box in the top left hand corner. Add a few white stars and you’ve got yourself an outdoor flag that won’t tear in the wind and will look even more fabulous as it ages!
\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/rustic-wagon-garden.jpg\")
The beauty of creating rustic outdoor décor is that the items that you add don’t have to be perfect. In fact, the more beat up they are the better. Consider things that garage sale fanatics would be selling that will add beauty to your outdoor space. Anything metal that can be sanded or wood that is aged would be great additions to a rustic outdoor space. Pick items that are a little bit beat up for a better price or age newer looking pieces with sandpaper, dark stain, or even crackle paint.
\nNothing says rustic like aged wood items for your outdoor space. Look around your house for wood items that are just collecting dust in the corner. Consider hanging antique wood tools and old picture frames on the outside of you home to create an overall rustic feel. If you don’t have any old wood consider buying new pieces of wood and making them look old with ageing techniques. Create a wood welcome sign or even a planter box that is sturdy and yet looks like it belonged to Grandma many years ago.
\nDon’t throw out that cracked pot just yet. Simply leave the crack but seal the edging in order to use the pot for a classic rustic look. Chipped, scuffed, or dented planter pots are perfect for a rustic outdoor space. Plant flowers in different colors to add even more beauty and interest as well as create contrast between the flowers and the old looking planter. Give those chipped or broken pots a second chance with different variations in a rustic themed outdoor space.
\nThe overall color for a rustic outdoor space involves more muted and natural tones of brown, tan, and white. Consider making a rustic wreath for your door hanging out of wheat stalks, branches, or even brown yarn. Add a few natural accents to the wreath like a white flower or even a cream colored bow to tie together the old and rustic look in your outdoor living space.
\nThere are many DIY projects that you can easily create at home for a rustic outdoor space. Create a pallet flag to decorate the yard or hang some old wood tools or picture frames for a cozy look. Consider adding a natural colored welcome wreath to the front door as well as give some new life to old looking things that are destined for the trash. Look around your home for items that can be easily transformed into rustic decorations for your outdoor space with just a little bit of sandpaper and some imagination.
\n","title":"5 Rustic Décor DIY Projects for Your Outdoor Space","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.43928035982009,"src":"/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/1789c/rustic-flower-cart.jpg","srcSet":"/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/107df/rustic-flower-cart.jpg 320w,\n/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/293e9/rustic-flower-cart.jpg 500w,\n/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/f2cbb/rustic-flower-cart.jpg 800w,\n/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/1789c/rustic-flower-cart.jpg 960w","srcWebp":"/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/1dd6e/rustic-flower-cart.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/67b76/rustic-flower-cart.webp 320w,\n/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/8df11/rustic-flower-cart.webp 500w,\n/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/98a65/rustic-flower-cart.webp 800w,\n/static/027de07117dd00841e285cb7d3fd14e0/1dd6e/rustic-flower-cart.webp 960w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"5 Rustic Décor DIY Projects for Your Outdoor Space | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"cd6cba7b-0d03-533d-8b50-07d0825d97bf","slug":"getting-rid-of-grass-in-driveway-cracks","path":"/weeds/getting-rid-of-grass-in-driveway-cracks/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Frank Naper is a nature enthusiast who loves to travel and explore new cities, taking nature photographs along the way.","name":"Frank Naper","id":"548facf1-0faf-5729-a658-167972066913","path":"/author/frank-naper/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/905ec21d5a8e70f5f8486364c08aa6b2?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"},{"id":"e80a46cb-c990-5ffe-81c8-aa77d74e07ad","name":"Weeds","count":2,"path":"/category/weeds/"}],"date":"October 22nd, 2019","excerpt":"Maybe you got a nasty notice from the homeowners association. Or maybe you spent the weekend weeding, only to come home and find grass or dandelions poking up between your pavers or the cracks of your sidewalk. They’re unsightly and can cause serious damage to your walkway. Before you reach for the spray bottle of […]
\n","content":"\nMaybe you got a nasty notice from the homeowners association. Or maybe you spent the weekend weeding, only to come home and find grass or dandelions poking up between your pavers or the cracks of your sidewalk. They’re unsightly and can cause serious damage to your walkway.
\n\n\n\nBefore you reach for the spray bottle of Roundup or some other toxic weed killer containing glyphosate, take a look in your kitchen. You may already have all the ingredients to kill weeds and grass in driveway cracks. Homemade solutions are both cheap and eco-friendly.
\n\n\n\nLet’s start with why grass and weeds are attracted to sidewalk cracks. The cracks and crevices look small, but the spaces between pavers hold an amazing amount of dirt and organic matter. This matter gets swept by wind and rain and snow. Those crevices also hold onto moisture a little longer than flat surfaces, so it’s a perfect incubator for the weed seeds or grass.
\n\n\n\nThe setup also gives grass and weeds a little protection from you. It’s tough to get to the grass roots, or taproots of the weeds when all you can do is try to pull the unwanted plants by their tops. And you’re not likely to mulch those areas, as you would your flower beds, to prevent a return. But you can find everything you need to get to the root of the problem, in your kitchen — without turning to chemical herbicides sold at the garden center.
\n\n\n\nThe good news is that because the unwanted intruders are in driveway or sidewalk cracks, you don’t need to be as precise when applying your homemade remedies. A poorly aimed squirt has less of a chance to hit and accidentally kill desirable plants.
\n\n\n\nFirst, a word of warning: These common kitchen ingredients aren’t toxic in small doses, but they’re not benign, either. “Several can be harmful to people/pets during mixing and application, owing to inhalation, skin or eye contact, or spray mist. Some have unpleasant smells or have an allergenic effect,” writes Deborah Smith-Fiola and Stanton Gill for the University of Maryland Extension. Some hazards are obvious: Boiling water can burn you if you are not careful with it. Others aren’t as obvious. Don’t take chances and handle all of them carefully.
\n\n\n\nThe pros of homemade weed killers are that yes, they do provide some level of weed control, without the environmental or health risks that toxic chemicals can leave behind. That’s more peace of mind for parents, pet owners, and for people who care about the environment. It also gives you more control over your weed problem, killing those stubborn grasses and new weeds that seem to pop up all too often in the driveway cracks and crevices of your hardscaping. If you apply natural weed killer enough and at the right time, you may finally be free of those pesky plants that ruin the look of your yard.
\n\n\n\nImage credit: “Hordeum leporinum,” by Matt Lavin, CC by SA 2.0
\n","title":"Getting Rid of Weeds, Grass in Driveway Cracks","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/1789c/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.jpg","srcSet":"/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/107df/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.jpg 320w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/293e9/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.jpg 500w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/f2cbb/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.jpg 800w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/1789c/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.jpg 960w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/356ef/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/1dd6e/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/67b76/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.webp 320w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/8df11/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.webp 500w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/98a65/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.webp 800w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/1dd6e/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.webp 960w,\n/static/758039ca3b2de2ecb8e7a4ee81da9156/93f70/rsz_weed-in-driveway-crack-matt-lavin-cc20.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Getting Rid of Weeds, Grass in Driveway Cracks | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"0cae6c7f-d05a-55a4-9bf8-5213acbf89bd","slug":"victory-garden","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/victory-garden/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Brenda Stuart is a radio journalist and content manager whose goal is to have the greenest lawn and prettiest garden on the block.","name":"Brenda Stuart","id":"fcad9a7b-532b-583f-832f-0cffbbcfa0a3","path":"/author/brendastuartryangmail-com/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/5e5ae7b8ac8b21db046b4f507fbec2aa?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"}],"date":"April 14th, 2020","excerpt":"How a Modern-Day ‘Victory Garden’ Can Help You Through the Coronavirus Pandemic As the coronavirus pandemic progresses, a growing number of state governments are requiring people to stay at home and make only minimal trips to stores for necessities. Besides making sure their households have enough hand soap and sanitizer, people are also trying to […]
\n","content":"\nAs the coronavirus pandemic progresses, a growing number of state governments are requiring people to stay at home and make only minimal trips to stores for necessities. Besides making sure their households have enough hand soap and sanitizer, people are also trying to lay in enough food, water, medicine, disinfectants, and other supplies to last for several weeks of self-isolation.
\n\n\n\nDuring uncertain times like these, it’s natural to wonder whether you could practice social distancing and simultaneously minimize your long-term dependency on the grocery store by growing food and natural remedies in your own backyard. The answer is yes — with plenty of planning, effort, and time (which, if you’re stuck at home, you’ll have more of than usual). Here are things to think about, plus tips for preparing, planting, and maintaining a garden that can help you survive an emergency.
\n\n\n\nYou don’t have to become a full-blown prepper or try to survive exclusively off the land. Think of it more like the victory gardens your grandparents or great-grandparents may have planted. You can grow some herbs and vegetables in pots on a balcony or convert a large portion of your yard to staple crops, or anything in between. Either way:
\n\n\n\nAnyone! Obviously, the space you have and the time you’re willing to spend will determine the scale. Few people can completely support themselves, especially right away — but anything you grow helps your budget and saves a trip to the store.
\n\n\n\nEspecially if you’re new to the gardening game, it can help to:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ajPU9FrhuAjKC-fQLjorDE1Vor0MHxPQqBa8Q9l0T-sG2jnvW9tG5b3pS30SEzuT-nwjcTJXJgAGF5p5JAmmpFgm--1oJFdPCXGymEU8A6Csz8DBImQLpd7cyF1LONqtRLpJ8uJZ\")
If you want good results, you can’t just start sticking plants in the ground. Gardening depends on a lot of factors, and you need to consider them first. (THEN you can start sticking plants in the ground!)
Think about:
\n\n\n\nThe country’s median garden size is about 96 square feet (8 feet by 12 feet). That’s very close to 100 square feet — the ideal size for a summer vegetable garden that can fill the needs of one person.
\n\n\n\nSo, how much food can a space like that yield? One gardener writing for Mother Earth News calculated her 100-square-foot plot’s annual yield at 77.5 pounds of tomatoes, 15.5 pounds of bell peppers, 14.3 pounds of lettuce, 2.5 pounds of basil, and 126 pounds of zucchini!
\n\n\n\nAlso pay attention to the amount of sun and shade your intended plot will get, so you can decide which plants should go where. Lots of gardening websites offer garden planners to help you visualize and design your plot.
\n\n\n\nA clean water supply is important, of course. Unless your area gets a lot of rainfall, you’ll probably be watering from your household water supply by hand, hose, or sprinkler. It’s easy to install a water filter to prevent chlorine, salts, and other chemicals from getting into your soil and your food — there are filters that screw right onto your garden hose!
\n\n\n\nYou’ll also need fertile soil that’s been tilled or loosened and is free of rocks and debris. If you’re converting a yard from turf, turning the soil for the first time will be one of the most time- and labor-intensive steps in the process. Prepare yourself now!
\n\n\n\nYou can learn things about your soil in the process, including its history of pesticide, herbicide, or fertilizer use. You’ll also get to know the consistency of the soil texture — what proportions of sand, silt, clay, or loam it contains — plus how much rock you’ll need to remove.
\n\n\n\nA garden will take up as much time as you give it, but most sources seem to agree that once plants are in the ground and growing, you’ll devote at minimum 5-10 hours per week to planting, watering, weeding, fertilizing, etc.
\n\n\n\nAlso, when starting a survival garden, you probably want the period from planting to harvest to take as little time as possible, so consider sowing some fast-growing plants in your first crop. (See 17 Fastest-Growing Backyard Crops, below, for suggestions.)
There are some basic tools every backyard gardener needs to begin with, including:
\n\n\n\nOnce your garden starts growing and you get a little deeper in, you also might need:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/FCQrAn04mB_snbI5J9SjwmYuTLmEicgYhZF9N0T6y1cl_h2p4XyTEf-acUONsMvrIsACQPGYgYJ4s6K_if6UsVvKi3QNmBLrONRS3rdQp_N7JFdA-zW_2Mo9ThUqh4iTc4bWeAN2\")
When it comes to selecting crops for a survival garden, everybody has different needs and tastes. Here’s a basic example of the types of staple crops you can plant:
\n\n\n\nThese veggies have different growing seasons, which can allow you to start a few kinds of plants at a time and focus on establishing them before it’s time to get the next crop going. (Just make sure to plan your garden layout with enough room for everybody.) This also means there should be something new that’s ready to harvest throughout most of the year.
\n\n\n\nThere are plenty of different lenses to help you focus your plant choices. You can consider growing time; ease of cultivation; protein, calorie or vitamin content. Luckily, many plants show up on multiple lists and grow well in your area. If you like to eat them (and bonus: if your kids like to eat them), then give them a try in your victory garden!
\n\n\n\nRemember growing bean sprouts in school? There’s a reason kindergarten teachers everywhere choose them: The seeds sprout and turn in visible results in almost no time.
| Food | Average days from sowing to harvest |
| green onions | 20-30 days |
| radishes | 25 days |
| spinach | 30 days |
| arugula | 30 days |
| carrots | 30-50 days |
| lettuce | 30-45 days |
| summer squash/ zucchini | 35 days |
| bush beans | 60 days |
| bok choy | 45-60 days |
| cucumbers | 50 days |
| beets | greens: 30 days / roots: 50 days |
| okra | 50-55 days |
| kale | 50-65 days |
| snow peas | 60 days |
| broccoli | 60 days |
| turnips | greens: 40 days / roots: 60 days |
Start your first survival garden season with some of these fast-growing crops, and you could be harvesting dinner within a few months.
Some crops are just easier than others. First-timer? You might want to stick with the crops easiest to grow in your area. Got some dirt under your nails? Go for the more finicky varieties.
\n\n\n\n| Easier-to-grow crops | Harder-to-grow crops |
| cucumbers | arugula |
| garlic | bok choy |
| green beans | broccoli |
| kale | cauliflower |
| lettuce | eggplant |
| peas | mustard greens |
| potatoes | onions |
| radishes* | radishes* |
| summer squash/ zucchini | spinach |
*Wondering why radishes show up on both the easy-to-grow and hard-to-grow lists? Because it’s easy to get radishes sprouted and growing, but not always easy to keep this cool-weather plant from bolting (prematurely flowering and going to seed before producing food) in warm weather. The same is true for many on the hard-to-grow list.
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/7Yq5PyMIaG19xvaGbAMWwzljZf_L_koSskCafJvn8meFWXnRMFxb0edNXNBihTTJW1xyEGBoMtLgMgnN88fiY6iGmKuroL_LpaSULhzy8WrKYPzC1Dz2pvOe9cD4-PU8MBa6s8Mn\")
If you’re trying to keep your family fed in a crisis situation, calories (boosting them, that is — not cutting them down!) may become more important than you ever thought possible. These are among the most calorie-dense crops you can plant.
| Food | Average calories |
| sunflower seeds | 700 kcals per cup (shelled) |
| avocado | 370 kcals per cup (puréed) |
| soybeans | 300 kcals per cup |
| potatoes | 260 kcals each (medium) |
| lima beans | 210 kcals per cup |
| corn | 130 kcals per ear |
| sweet potatoes | 130 kcals each (medium) |
| pinto beans | 80 kcals per cup |
| Source: USDA Food Data Central |
Protein is also important for maintaining proper health. There are plenty of ways to get protein into your garden and onto your plate.
| Food | Average protein per cup |
| soybeans | 68 grams |
| pumpkin seeds | 36 grams |
| pinto beans | 28 grams |
| quinoa | 24 grams |
| buckwheat | 22 grams |
| peanuts | 16 grams |
| chickpeas | 14 grams |
| broccoli | 2.5 grams |
| Source: USDA Food Data Central |
Besides legumes and grains, many green veggies are high in protein — such as broccoli, which contains more protein per calorie than steak. (You’d just have to eat many more mouthfuls of greens to get the same number of calories as you’d get from the animal products.)
A smart way to reduce food waste and get more of the crops you already like to eat is to regrow food from cuttings. This also saves unnecessary trips to the store or garden center. If you’ve never done this before, now is a great time to start. Here are some foods you can regrow.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/foods-grow-from-cuttings-424x1024.png\")
![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/y3g3ijCjNGPvHrh4BSQpVnskWjnV4j85j1X7lgbPoC-vgSwK_MwmBaOl4IP53eiGu8hBPZhcrGx_RW2KUFt1aGmOGdgsxLiV-GaYCIJbtpPFAPpQyyH8fM8kgdJ2rZlnDTlybKUp\")
Both in the soil and in your home, vegetables in your survival garden will be complemented by other plants. Medicinal herbs can replace store-bought supplements or pharmaceuticals in healing injury and relieving illnesses, and other plants can help you replace household items.
\n\n\n\nSelf-sufficiency is always a great feeling, but it’s of much greater importance during a crisis. If store-bought pharmaceuticals are unavailable, you might be able to harvest something from the garden to help relieve an injury or malady. These are some conditions that have been treated using medicinal herbs:
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/medicinal-gardening-plants-515x1024.png\")
For centuries, people have made tea from the leaves of various plants to relieve certain ailments. Here are some plants that make herbal teas believed to offer health benefits:
\n\n\n\nBecause of their natural antiseptic and pain-relieving benefits, these plants can be made into topical applications — oils, ointments, washes, poultices, or salves — to relieve skin irritation, inflammation, or muscular pain, as well as heal cuts, scrapes, bruises, and burns.
\n\n\n\nSome medicinal plants look like other plants that can be toxic or even deadly, so make sure you pay attention. (And remember: This is by no means a comprehensive list!)
\n\n\n\nAlso, some plants have similar names. For example, don’t confuse black cohosh — used for easing menstrual cramps and hot flashes — with blue cohosh, which can cause miscarriage in pregnant women. The raw berries also can cause vomiting and diarrhea in children if ingested.
Hopefully, you won’t run out of toilet paper or any of the next-most-useful replacements like tissues, napkins, or paper towels. But if you get to the point of looking for rugged, old-school solutions, leaves are your best bet. Check your backyard. The following trees and plants are good candidates because of the size, softness, thickness, and durability of their leaves. As a bonus, they also generally don’t contain any skin-irritating chemicals.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/leaves-toilet-paper-530x1024.png\")
If you don’t already have access to any of these, it might not be a bad idea to plant a few — just in case. Mullein, mallow, lamb’s ear, and asters do well in gardens across the U.S. Corn lily and thimbleberry are mountainous and grow best at higher altitudes. (Remember: It’s important to make sure you know exactly what a plant is before you use it on any part of your body.)
Of course you’ve stocked plenty of rope among your supplies. But what happens if it gets lost, stolen, or somehow compromised? You make your own rope, of course — armed with know-how, plenty of time, immense patience, no small amount of labor, and any of these plants.
![\"\"](\"http://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/plants-to-use-for-rope-792x1024.png\")
Some of these fibrous plants will work better than others in your garden. Milkweed complements mainstream garden life, encouraging butterflies that help with pollination. Conversely, because of their unfriendly properties, dogbane and stinging nettle require a more out-of-the-way spot.
The United States is immense, so there’s no single typical growing season or harvest period. Instead, the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture has designated “plant hardiness zones” to guide planting all across the country. The zones are determined by the lowest winter temperatures (historically averaged) as they occur across the geographic areas of the U.S.
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Hardiness zone maps are also accessible by state or by region. Using them to figure out the specific temperature range for your area can help you gauge which plants will grow best and last longest.
\n\n\n\nOnce you know your zone, you can begin to figure out a timetable that will work for gardening in your area. Several websites provide a planting and harvest calendar for each zone, as well as suggestions for vegetables and general planting advice.
\n\n\n\nOnce you’ve decided what to grow and planned where and when to grow it, it’s finally time for the how: Get your hands dirty and dig into the soil!
\n\n\n\nRaised beds
\n\n\n\nOne of the most common gardening methods, planting in raised beds involves turning the bed soil, then adding more soil and compost on top. Beds can be contained in boxes where the entire surface is raised, or soil can be formed into mounds or rows above the original surface. A raised-bed design can offer several advantages:
\n\n\n\nHills
\n\n\n\nYou’ve heard the expression “doesn’t amount to a hill of beans?” Yep, beans grow best in hills. Planting in hills (or mounds) works well for vining plants like beans, squash, cucumbers, and melons. Often they’re planted with a vertical frame for the vines to climb.
\n\n\n\nRows
\n\n\n\nTraditional gardens planted in rows can be especially useful for supporting large crops like corn, canning tomatoes, potatoes and other produce that takes up a lot of room.
\n\n\n\nWhen your food is coming from it, you want to make sure your soil is as clean, chemical-free, and nutritious as possible. If you or previous land occupants have used pesticides or herbicides in the bed soil, you’ll probably want to make raised beds and add organic soil and compost. After that, adding an annual layer of compost adds nutrients and continually improves the soil.
\n\n\n\nFertilizers From the Kitchen
\n\n\n\nYou’re also probably looking for a shorter timeline than it takes for a compost pile to “ripen” for use, so meanwhile, you can divert these classic compost ingredients directly into the soil as DIY fertilizers:
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Vegetables and other plants vary in the forms they best grow from: seeds or seedlings. Here’s an overview of each type, plus some advice on getting them started:
\n\n\n\nTo grow some vegetables, you can just stick a seed in the ground, let it germinate, and cultivate it from there. Easier than cuttings, and cheaper than seedlings! These plants include:
\n\n\n\nThe basics of planting seeds, of course, are the much the same as for any type of planting:
\n\n\n\nCreative planting tip: Did you know you can sprout seeds in eggshells? Simply take several clean, empty shells, carefully poke a drainage hole in the bottom of each, then set into an egg carton. Fill each shell with some potting soil, sprinkle a few seeds of your choice, then lightly rake a little soil over them. Set in a sunny spot and keep moist with a mister until leaves sprout. Then, you can plant the entire thing into a pot, and the eggshell will fertilize the plant it helped sprout! This can also be done with hollowed-out citrus peels.
\n\n\n\nSome plants are notoriously hard to germinate from seeds and/or keep alive. Seedlings are more mature and stronger (as well as more pest-resistant) when they’re transplanted, so you’re less likely to lose plants at the beginning. Plants grown from seedlings also mature faster, getting you to harvest sooner.
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Once they’re in the ground and doing their thing, your job is to keep watch over your plants and protect them from all the things that can cause them harm. Fortunately, there are several creative gardening hacks to help you tend your plants and help them grow. Here are just a few.
\n\n\n\nThese are the planting seasons for vegetables, some fruits, and herbs in different parts of the country.
\n\n\n\n| What and When to Plant in the U.S. | ||||
| Region | Spring (March-May) | Summer (June-Aug) | Fall (Sept-Nov) | Winter (Dec-Feb) |
Pacific Northwest (USDA Hardiness Zones 4b-9a) | apples, artichokes, arugula, asparagus, beans, beets, blackberries, blueberries, bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, chard, collards, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, greens, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, onions, parsnips, peas, pears, pole beans, potatoes, pumpkins, raspberries, radishes, scallions, shallots, snap peas, snow peas, strawberries, spinach, sorrel | bush beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, chard, eggplants, endive, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, mustard greens, onions, peppers, radishes, rutabaga, spinach, summer squash, tomatoes, turnips, winter squash, parsley, rhubarb | fava beans, garlic, mustard greens, peas, radishes, shallots, spinach, turnips, chives | |
West Coast (USDA Hardiness Zones 4b-9a) | beans, beets, blackberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, corn, cucumbers, eggplants, green beans, kale, lettuce, onions, peas, peppers, potatoes, radishes, spinach, squash, strawberries, tomatoes, turnips, basil, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary | beans, beets, Brussels sprouts, carrots, corn, cucumbers, onions, peppers, radishes, squash, tomatoes | beans, beets, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, kale, lettuce, peas, spinach, squash | |
South Central and Southwest (USDA Hardiness Zones 3b-11a) | asparagus, beans, beets, blackberries, bok choy, cantaloupes, carrots, chard, collards, corn, cucumbers, figs, garlic, cherry tomatoes, melons, okra, onions, peanuts, peas, peppers, potatoes, radishes, scallions, snap peas, spinach, tomatoes, watermelons, cilantro, dill, fennel, parsley | beans, beets, cantaloupes, chard, collards, corn, cucumbers, gourds, kale, lettuce, melons, mustard greens, okra, peanuts, peas, tomatoes, tomatillos, turnips, beans, sweet peppers, hot peppers, watermelon, basil, cilantro, dill | arugula, beets, bok choy, carrots, chard, collards, garlic, kale, leek, lettuce, mustard greens, onions, parsnips, radishes, shallots, spinach, turnips, cilantro, dill, parsley | beets, bok choy, carrots, chard, collards, lettuce,snow peas, potatoes, radishes, rutabaga, spinach, cilantro, dill, fennel, parsley |
Midwest (USDA Hardiness Zones 3a-7b) | apples, arugula, beans, beets, blackberries, bok choy, broccoli, cabbage, cantaloupe, cauliflower, carrots, chard, cherries, corn, cucumber, edamame, endive, fava beans, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, lima beans, parsnips, peaches, peas, pears, persimmons, potatoes, radishes, radicchio, scallions, spinach, squash (summer and winter), strawberries, turnips, watermelon, basil, chives, cilantro, fennel, parsley, sorrel, summer savory, witch hazel | arugula, beans, beets, cantaloupe, carrots, chard, collards, corn, cucumber, edamame, endive, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, mustard greens, okra, parsnips, radishes, rutabaga, peas, pumpkin, scallions, squash (summer and winter), turnips, watermelon, basil, cilantro, parsley, sorrel | arugula, broccoli, cabbage, collards, endive, garlic, kale, kohlrabi, leeks, lettuce, mustard greens, peas, radishes, shallots, spinach, turnips | |
| Southeast (USDA Hardiness Zones 5b-11a) | broccoli, blackberries, cabbage, cantaloupe, carrots, chard, collards, corn, eggplant, figs, lettuce, okra, onions, peppers, potatoes, radishes, spinach, squash, strawberries, sweet potatoes, basil, cilantro, dill, lavender, oregano, thyme, witch hazel | beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, cucumbers, kale, lima beans, pole beans, tomatoes, watermelon, winter squash | chard, kale, onions, pumpkins, rosemary, turnips | |
| Northeast (USDA Hardiness Zones 3a-8a) | beets, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, lettuce, kale, kohlrabi, melons, sweet peppers, snap peas, squash, tomatoes, watermelons, zucchini, basil, chamomile, ginger, mint, parsley, witch hazel | beets, bok choy, broccoli, cantaloupe, cabbage, carrots, chard, corn, greens, cucumbers, lettuce, kale, kohlrabi, pole beans, snap beans, snap peas, snow peas, spinach, squash, summer squash, tomatoes, watermelons, zucchini, arnica, basil, borage, chamomile, dill, fennel, marshmallow, oregano, parsley, purslane, skullcap, thyme | arugula, beets, broccoli, garlic, greens (mesclun, rapini, mache, frisee, etc.), kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, radishes, shallots, spinach, turnips,cilantro, chamomile, echinacea, holy basil, lemon balm, oregano, purslane, skullcap, sorrel, thyme | arugula, kale, lettuce, basil, cilantro, dill(start indoors in pots) |
Aerating – Loosening soil or compost to allow air to circulate
\n\n\n\nAnnuals – Varieties that complete their life cycle in one year or less, requiring sowing every year. Annual flower varieties often bloom profusely and over a long period of time.
\n\n\n\nBiennials – Varieties, both flowers and vegetables, that complete their life cycle in two years, usually just showing only leaf growth the first year, and flowers the next
\n\n\n\nCompanion planting – Planting different plants together that benefit one another. For example, sowing a plant that attracts pollinators next to a plant that requires pollination; corn, squash, and beans are common companions.
\n\n\n\nCutting – Developing a new plant by cutting a piece of leaf, stem, root, or bud from a parent plant, then inserting it into a growing medium (water or soil) to form roots
\n\n\n\nComposting – Using decomposed plant material to replenish soil nutrients while reducing landfill waste
\n\n\n\nFertilizing – Adding organic or synthetic material to soil or plant to improve the nutrient value and help plants grow stronger
\n\n\n\nGermination – The moment when a seed begins to grow
\n\n\n\nHydroponics – Growing plants in water instead of soil
\n\n\n\nPlanting/ sowing – Putting seeds in soil and allowing them to germinate and grow
\n\n\n\nPerennials – Varieties that grow and flower for two or more years. These can be evergreen or may die back to the ground but will grow again the following season.
\n\n\n\nPollination – The fertilization of a flower by wind, insect, birds, etc., resulting in a seed, sometimes surrounded by an edible fruit
\n\n\n\nSeedling – Tiny plant developing from a germinated seed, ready for planting
\n\n\n\nThinning – Reducing the number of seedlings so remaining plants are spaced properly to grow
\n\n\n\nTransplanting – Transferring a plant to a different growing space or medium
\n\n\n\nUSDA hardiness zones – Zones designated for planting as determined by the historical, average, lowest winter temperature in specified geographic areas of the U.S.
\n\n\n\nVariety – A species that has naturally formed a unique characteristic distinguishing it from similar plants (For example, kale and kohlrabi each adapted unique characteristics that differ from cabbage, the original species from which they came.)
\n\n\n\n\n","title":"Social Distancing in Your Backyard","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5086792452830189,"src":"/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/1789c/social-distancing-backyard.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/107df/social-distancing-backyard.jpg 320w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/293e9/social-distancing-backyard.jpg 500w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/f2cbb/social-distancing-backyard.jpg 800w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/1789c/social-distancing-backyard.jpg 960w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/19c60/social-distancing-backyard.jpg 1999w","srcWebp":"/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/1dd6e/social-distancing-backyard.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/67b76/social-distancing-backyard.webp 320w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/8df11/social-distancing-backyard.webp 500w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/98a65/social-distancing-backyard.webp 800w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/1dd6e/social-distancing-backyard.webp 960w,\n/static/4697d7c41b2492787ca191a3565dd6d1/acfdf/social-distancing-backyard.webp 1999w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Social Distancing in Your Backyard | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"e2bbed9d-9766-5df7-a6c8-1ba4f2a29739","slug":"when-how-to-winterize-your-sprinkler-system","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/when-how-to-winterize-your-sprinkler-system/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Jackie Greene is a blogger, gardener, and nutrition enthusiast. She enjoys creating organic meals for family and friends using the fresh ingredients she produces from her backyard homestead.","name":"Jackie Greene","id":"fb5923e1-833b-5d9b-808e-ded0e62c0bc4","path":"/author/jackiegreene/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/2c1121209a3ebfbe0a7e941d102b2971?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"6fc58ffa-eaae-56a2-a670-d6f84e2bb962","name":"Cold Climate","count":4,"path":"/category/cold-climate/"},{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"},{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"bf4daca3-f477-56c4-b0f9-b212905a3b28","name":"Tools, Apps & Accessories","count":6,"path":"/category/garden-accessories/"}],"date":"October 21st, 2019","excerpt":"Your grass likes a deep drink every week to 10 days in most climates. But the question of when to stop watering your lawn and winterize your sprinkler system is a little more complicated. Most of the country will see at least one deep freeze during the cold season. Many more will see freezing temperatures […]
\n","content":"\nYour grass likes a deep drink every week to 10 days in most climates. But the question of when to stop watering your lawn and winterize your sprinkler system is a little more complicated.
\n\n\n\nMost of the country will see at least one deep freeze during the cold season. Many more will see freezing temperatures and snow through the winter months. The answer to when to shut off your sprinkler system for the season depends on the length of your growing season and the part of the country where you live. Lawns in Texas will need water until they go dormant in November. In Colorado, sprinkler systems run the risk of freezing by the end of September. Some cities and counties also restrict when and how long you can water.
\n\n\n\nWhen the time does come, you will want to get your irrigation system ready for the harsh winter, so you won’t have any unpleasant, wet surprises.
\n\n\n\nYou can also use the blowout method. you’ll need an air compressor, a quick-connect air hose adaptor, and eye protection. Close the main supply valve and the valves around the backflow device. Uncap the blow-out port, connect the quick-connect hose adaptor and attach the compressor hose.
\n\n\n\nIt’s important to have a pressure regulator and adjust to pressure to 40 psi if you have PVC pipes, and 50 psi if you have polyethylene pipes. Too much air pressure and the air will crack your pipes. You’ll want to blow out your sprinkler system zone by zone.
\n\n\n\nRemember to wear eye protection. This will protect you in case one of the sprinkler heads pops off during the blowout. You want the sprinkler heads to pop up and push out any water remaining in your water line.
\n\n\n\nIf you’re not certain or intimidated by the idea of blowing out the sprinkler system yourself, you can hire a professional to do it. It should cost from $50 to $150, depending on how big your irrigation system is and where you are. If you plan to do it yourself, renting an air compressor can run you about $50, give or take a few bucks.
\n\n\n\nAfter the water is expelled, you can turn things off for the season by cutting off the water supply at the main shut-off valve. It’s typically a ball valve with a lever. The shutoff valve will keep water from the main water supply from entering your pipes during the winter months.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/icicles-3529002_1280-pixabay-1024x768.jpg\")
Outdoor faucets can freeze just as fast as sprinkler systems. Winterization is crucial if you don’t want to see burst pipes in early spring. Find the shut-off valve in your garage or basement and turn them off. Turn on all faucets to drain any water. Faucets in the southern half of the U.S. are often more vulnerable since Southern homes aren’t built for hard freezes. Since the pipes are often more exposed, one freeze can do a lot of damage. Consider buying faucet and pipe covers to insulate them during the winter — just in case.
\n\n\n\nIf you walk outside in the morning and see frost, don’t confuse that with the killing freeze that ends the season. According to the National Weather Service, “Typically, frost can occur when the temperature falls below 36 degrees Fahrenheit, especially in rural areas. It is a localized phenomenon and can be quite variable across a small area. While the National Weather Service does not keep track of ‘frost’ in observations per se, we do keep track of when temperatures hit the freezing mark or fall below.”
\n\n\n\nMeteorologists define a hard freeze as occurring at 28 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s the start of the pipe-busting kind of freezing cold weather and the kind of cold that can kill plants. It can also take out a sprinkler valve or two.
\n\n\n\nIt usually arrives in the first 10 days of September in the upper altitudes of the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. In Key West, Fla., you can expect the first freeze on the 10th of Never (there has never even been frost, let alone sleet or ice, in America’s southernmost city). Your local TV meteorologist will tell you in no uncertain terms that a hard freeze is in the forecast, and you need to protect your pipes, pets, plants.
\n\n\n\nProtecting your pipes and winterizing your lawn sprinkler system is crucial in parts of the country that see hard freezes during the winter months, and that includes most of the US. It’s easy to keep track of what areas have already had their first freezes, thanks to the Midwestern Regional Climate Center, which tracks first freezes as part of its Vegetation Impact Program. So bundle yourself and your pipes up!
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\n","content":"\nThere’s no place like home … to injure yourself. In much the same way that most car accidents take place within five miles of home, most of our injuries take place on our own properties. As people head outside to embark on various projects, some will end in aches, sprains, and worse. Here’s a list of common back yard injuries and some yard work safety tips.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/mHCDDo725XPmdG9uaKXPGKLxG2lq6ubhwE8d-AVWPFz_iEt-vpy9ieHlDG7UdAk5cXUsk-lniGiXuER89clu2083pR9uRMAHC_0MKMDWIq1CJmbE8oRJVgBXNvbKErSKOft3OceL\")
Your lawn mower is the most dangerous tool in the shed. Both push mowers and lawn tractors feature motor-driven blades on a moving carriage. The risk of injuries ranges from carbon monoxide poisoning to burns to critical injury from blades. More than 80,000 people go to the emergency room each year because of lawn mower injuries, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. While some injuries are minor, 70 of those injuries are fatal and 5,000 involve children. American Society of Plastic Surgeons president, Dr. Jeffrey Janis says more than 600 children lose a limb to lawn mower accidents every year. “Lawn mowing can unexpectedly become a dangerous activity, especially when children are near. It’s imperative that operators take proper precautions and eliminate all risks to reduce these traumatic injuries.”
\n\n\n\nThe Consumer Product Safety Commission warns you never to leave a motor idling in an enclosed garage, and always walk the area that you’re about to mow. Look for any debris or objects that could damage your blades and become flying projectiles. Wear safety goggles to protect your eyes, and sturdy shoes with sure-grip soles, never sneakers, or sandals. They also advise small children not be allowed on a riding mower or near the lawn when the rotary mower is in use. Finally, READ the owner’s manual and make sure you’re familiar with all safety features
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/yGiWveffb4WgsLkfE-oVmU5-0QExVgsWCBza52BOuxP907dFimaYPi089843RR09BulpYCSKU6xuxvsKorEEL_EUZDSxMLZmdhBSUK1e1zSV3TAjVIvcMu-xyl0tZhELfk31LvQD\")
Falls are the leading cause of at-home injuries, and once you add ladders into the equation, all bets are off. But a few precautions can keep you from becoming another statistic. Start with inspecting your ladder before you climb aboard. Look out for loose rungs or hardware, and don’t climb a ladder unless you are wearing footwear with a good grip. Be mindful of your ladder position: Place it on a firm, level surface out of the range of any swinging doors.
\n\n\n\nWhen you’re on a ladder, follow the “three-points-of-contact rule.” Always have at least two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder. When tackling a project like cleaning the gutters, ask someone to hold the ladder steady for you at the base. Don’t stand on the top rung of a ladder (the one that says “not a step”) and avoid facing outward from the ladder. Following these simple tips can help keep you safe no matter how high you climb.
\n\n\n\nNo one is likely to underestimate the potential for injury with outdoor power equipment. Yet every year, doctors see a huge influx of injuries after storms, when people are dealing with large numbers of downed trees. To avoid injury, operators should always wear gloves, long pants, shoes, and eye protection. Make sure your power tools are in good working order, and extension cords are secured.
\n\n\n\nOne major component of lawn care is aeration — the act of piercing your compacted lawn with a specialized piece of equipment to help your turf “breathe.” While this is arguably the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your yard’s life, your back might disagree. Aeration requires either a spike aerator or a core aerator. Both are heavy tools you must push across your lawn. If you’re not in great shape, lifting and pushing one of these beasts can leave you with a serious back injury. If you’re aerating this year, make sure you lift and move the aerator carefully (with help if you need it) and maintain a good posture at all times.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/zURumFZisTmDD1TDX4xY101JdENHrcUHFF2v4qLn0sgqLiJg2_7Va3xdFRwcX98EVRt0snzf4DFdGAo6hxasv4zb8k0MyKL-p0_wAvEFrEkC_htyVbFcZxQlTpBUFPvj4sp0OSr4\")
Rakes are great for removing leaves, but you should be raked over the coals if you leave one outside when you’re finished. The sharp edges are especially dangerous around young children. A shovel, by itself, doesn’t pose many hazards, but before you go digging, it’s crucial that you call the utility company and make sure you’re not digging into a power line. One wrong move and you could be pushing up daisies instead of planting them.
\n\n\n\nAs innocuous as it might seem, pulling those pesky weeds when you’re a bit out of shape can really lay you out if you’re not careful. Practice good form, bend at the knees and use your legs to pull, rather than just your arms. Consider wearing knee pads to ease the stress on your legs. You may want to start out slow and easy — when the weeds are still small — and work your way up to the big guys as you get conditioned over time.
\n\n\n\nOne major component of lawn care is aeration — the act of piercing your compacted lawn with a specialized piece of equipment to help your turf “breathe.” While this is arguably the best thing you can do to improve the quality of your yard’s life, your back might disagree. Aeration requires either a spike aerator or a core aerator. Both are heavy tools you must push across your lawn. If you’re not in great shape, lifting and pushing one of these beasts can leave you with a serious back injury.
\n\n\n\nCreating a thick green lawn can also leave you with a black lung! Heavy doses of chemical fertilizers and insecticides have been known to cause cancer. Your best bet is using natural fertilizers. Grass clipping will provide your lawn with the nutrition it needs without hurting you or your pets. You can avoid using pesticides by planting native plants and flowers that repel pests.
\n\n\n\nSo when someone tells you, “It wouldn’t kill you to do a little yard work,” tell them it very well could! As excited as you may be to get started on your yard project this spring, don’t forget to take safety precautions to avoid any preventable injuries.
\n\n\n\n\n","title":"Yard Work Safety","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5505004549590538,"src":"/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/1789c/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/107df/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.jpg 320w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/293e9/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.jpg 500w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/f2cbb/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.jpg 800w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/1789c/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.jpg 960w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/d8e6a/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.jpg 1704w","srcWebp":"/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/1dd6e/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/67b76/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.webp 320w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/8df11/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.webp 500w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/98a65/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.webp 800w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/1dd6e/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.webp 960w,\n/static/c79d864cd43c28b67875a7af9a84ea5d/82e5d/landscape-gardener-trimming-shrub-on-ladder-e1576097351725.webp 1704w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Yard Work Safety | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"52ef8ca4-bcc0-593a-8c1a-729125d132f0","slug":"get-rid-of-grub-worms-in-lawns","path":"/pests-and-diseases/get-rid-of-grub-worms-in-lawns/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"LaShonda Tucker is a freelance writer, poet, and spoken word artist in Atlanta. She earned her masters from the University of Georgia and enjoys playing her violin.","name":"LaShonda Tucker","id":"f7fdb6d3-a89a-5295-963a-aac47afa7cee","path":"/author/lashonda-tucker/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/ce61747b62dbfb82f56a8611f2835988?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"},{"id":"84a346a7-9ce4-5d70-a95f-abcea3779ced","name":"Pests and Diseases","count":10,"path":"/category/pests-and-diseases/"}],"date":"August 7th, 2023","excerpt":"Lawn grubs are a part of the ecosystem. And, of course, we want to preserve the ecosystem. But too much of anything can be a bad thing. Grub worms become a problem when there is a large grub population. They eat grass roots, weakening the bond between the grass and roots and ultimately killing the […]
\n","content":"\nLawn grubs are a part of the ecosystem. And, of course, we want to preserve the ecosystem. But too much of anything can be a bad thing. Grub worms become a problem when there is a large grub population. They eat grass roots, weakening the bond between the grass and roots and ultimately killing the grass. This article tells you how to get rid of grubs in your lawn using natural methods and conventional chemicals.
\n\n\nGrubs are the larvae of beetles like June bugs, Japanese beetles, and June beetles. After the beetles lay eggs, they hatch into larvae that feed on grass roots and need moisture to survive. They are slimy-looking, squishy, and C-shaped, with legs close to their brown heads.
\n\n\n![\"Japanese](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/aa92a5f5-8ab5-406e-a721-72ac486709fc.jpg\")
Infographic by Juan Rodriguez
\n\n\n\nThe eggs hatch, and the white grubs become active in the spring and summer. In the fall, they feed and tunnel further into the soil for protection against upcoming winter weather.
\n\n\n\nGrubs do more than make your grass look unhealthy. By weakening the bond between the grass and grass roots, grubs cause your grass to become unstable. When pulled, patches of grass come up easily and roll up like a carpet. Grass will quickly die once the roots are severed.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThere are a few telltale signs of lawn grubs, like increased animal activity, as critters like skunks and raccoons flock to your yard to feed on the grub worms.
\n\n\n\nWhite grubs dig into grass roots and cause dead patches. Multiple dead patches that do not improve can be a sign of a grub infestation. Although brown patches can be a sign of lawn disease or drought, they are also a major indicator that grub control may be needed if the grass pulls up easily. Remember, patches of grass will roll up like carpet if there is grub damage.
\n\n\n\nBefore you start the process to get rid of grubs, test your yard to make sure grubs are the problem:
\n\n\n\n— In the suspected area, dig up 1 square foot that is about 3 inches deep.
— If you see 5 or fewer grubs, your lawn is normal. Treatment is unnecessary.
— Unhealthy grass will require grub control if there are five to 10 grubs in a single square foot.
— If you see more than 10 grubs, your infestation qualifies as severe, and you may need professional help to treat it.
You can kill grubs without injuring beneficial insects by using organic methods. Natural treatment can take several years, but you, your loved ones, and the environment will be safer for it.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"beneficial](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/85f15946-4a9d-4367-824e-fec8e65433b8.jpeg\")
Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n\n\n\nThese microscopic worms are natural parasites that kill grubs by releasing bacteria. They naturally live in the soil. Homeowners can purchase them at retailers like Walmart and even online from Amazon. Use them soon after purchase, before they die. Water the grass before and after you release the beneficial nematodes into the lawn. The best time to apply the worms is in the afternoon.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nMilky spore comes in powder form and can be sprinkled on the lawn. It is a bacterial disease that only kills Japanese beetle grubs. It can take many years for this bacterium to get rid of grubs.
\n\n\n\nTypically, milky spore can be purchased at the same locations as beneficial nematodes. You can find them online at Home Depot and Amazon.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHomeowners can control grubs with a DIY neem oil solution. Neem oil naturally contains ingredients that act as pesticides, like Azadirachtin.
\n\n\n\nRecipe and Directions. Mix 1 teaspoon of pure Castile soap with 1 gallon of warm water. Add 2 tablespoons of raw 100% cold-pressed neem oil. Place the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray your lawn weekly until the grubs are gone, or the population is reduced to a normal level. Apply at dawn or dusk to keep from harming beneficial insects.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"bird](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/d5635a6c-233a-43ad-9848-d4f3f21986db.jpg\")
Photo Credit: Anmol Dash / Canva Pro / License
\n\n\n\nGrubs are tasty little treats for birds like bluejays and robins. Put out birdhouses, birdbaths, and food for birds to attract them to your yard. They will eat your grub problem away while you sit back and watch.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re in an area where you experience droughts in the summer, take advantage of it. Dry out the soil even more by not watering your grass for three to four weeks. Since beetle eggs need moisture to live, drought will act as a natural pesticide and kill the eggs. The dry soil will decrease the subsequent year’s grub population.
\n\n\n\nSome grass types are more drought-tolerant than others, but most healthy lawns will green up when you start re-quenching the grass’s thirst.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nConventional grub control products, like other conventional lawn care agents such as herbicides and insecticides, come with risks to humans, pets, and the environment. Be sure to read product labels and follow the instructions, taking any necessary safety precautions.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nCuratives eliminate larvae before they become pupae. They do not kill beetles when they are in their pupae stage, which is after they are larvae but before they become adult beetles. Products that have the ingredients carbaryl or trichlorfon are effective curative products for grubs.
\n\n\n\nCarbaryl kills grubs in about 10 to 14 days. It is more effective at eliminating certain types of grubs, like European chafer grubs, than trichlorfon. Beneficial insects, including bees, are also harmed by carbaryl.
\n\n\n\nTrichlorfon starts to kill grubs in about one to five days.
\n\n\n\nMow the lawn immediately before applying these chemicals to protect bees. Carbaryl and trichlorfon are toxic to these crucial pollinators. They can be harmed if they visit flowering weeds after the lawn is sprayed. Mowing removes the flowers. After the application of curative products, water the lawn with at least 0.5 inches of water.
\n\n\n\nTreat the grass in the early spring or fall with curative killers since this is when grubs are most vulnerable to pesticides. Do not apply curative treatments after mid-May because grubs are no longer feeding. Using carbaryl or trichlorfon in September will kill 20 – 80% of grubs. They will kill 20 – 55% when used in late October.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nIf you already have a grub problem, preventative pesticides will not work. Preventative products are for homeowners who have had past grub problems or who have noticed that their neighbor probably has grubs. These pesticides will decrease your chances of a grub infestation and stop white grubs from invading in the future.
\n\n\n\nChoose preventative pesticides with the chemicals halofenozide or imidacloprid. Imidacloprid and clothianidin are effective on young grubs like European chafers and will kill them as they hatch.
\n\n\n\nPreventative chemicals are more effective at decreasing the grub population than curative methods. Products with these active ingredients can be used in late summer, fall, and early spring. These chemicals kill 75 – 100% of grubs when applied in early summer, in June or July. Be sure to irrigate immediately after application with 0.5 inches of water to get the optimal killing potential.
\n\n\n\nJust as you would with curative agents, mow the lawn immediately preceding the application of preventative pesticides to protect beneficial insects and to ensure the product reaches the grubs in the soil.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n![\"dethatcher](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/hand-scarifiers-g35cd23e32_1920-1.jpg\")
Photo Credit: silver bullet66 / Pixabay / License
\n\n\n\nKeeping your lawn healthy will help prevent grubs from taking over and injuring your yard. Thriving turfgrass that is watered regularly (but not overwatered) can withstand five or more grubs per square foot without damage. You want to maintain your grass in a way that facilitates a deeper root system. These lawn care practices will establish the healthy lawn needed to prevent lawn grubs:
\n\n\n\nAre there insecticides that do not work on grubs?
\n\n\n\nYes. The chemicals listed below will not work on grubs unless they are combined with preventative chemicals that are effective for grub control. Do not use products that contain only these chemicals:
\n\n\n\n— Bifenthrin
— Gamma-cyhalothrin
— Lambda-cyhalothrin
— Deltamethrin
— Permethrin
— Cyfluthrin
When is it safe for children and pets to return to the grass after grub control treatment?
\n\n\n\nInsecticides and herbicides, in general, are harmful to humans, especially children, and pets. Wait until after you have watered the grass, and it has completely dried before allowing humans or pets into the affected area.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAre there any active ingredients safe for bees?
\n\n\n\nThe chemical chlorantraniliprole is safe for bees. This active ingredient can be found in some preventive conventional grub control products.
\n\n\n\nUnlike other preventives, it can be used on the lawn any time in the spring after green-up. It is not as effective as other preventive agents, but it will decrease grubs by 65 – 80%. You can apply it between early April and mid-July, but applying it before June ensures maximum killing potential.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDo grubs go away without treatment?
\n\n\n\nNo, they do not. They not only spread quickly, but they also cause both aesthetic damage and damage to grass root systems. Test for grubs or call a professional if you have signs, and start treatment immediately.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nHow do you apply conventional curative and preventive grub control products?
\n\n\n\nBoth of these types of products come as liquid and dry granules. Read labels and follow application directions. Liquid pesticides can be applied with a hose spray bottle or a hose sprayer. Granules can be applied with a fertilizer spreader. Some granules need to be mixed with water and sprayed. Some grub control products come in attach-to-hose bottles where the water is automatically mixed upon application.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou have several options to manage a lawn grub infestation. Fortunately, a few grubs do not indicate a problem. A healthy lawn may contain about five grubs per square foot and not have any damage. Always do a test before starting treatment. For the most accurate analysis, call a lawn pest control professional.
WikiLawn can connect you to qualified lawn care pros in your area for all your lawn care needs, including grub detection and treatment.
Main Photo Credit: CSIRO / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 3.0
\n","title":"How to Get Rid of Grubs in Your Lawn","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1789c/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/107df/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 320w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/293e9/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 500w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/f2cbb/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 800w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1789c/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 960w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/c26c2/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1dd6e/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/67b76/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 320w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/8df11/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 500w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/98a65/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 800w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/1dd6e/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 960w,\n/static/7b4584f3d7073b53e65e07e0004481d5/3cc96/86d21984-83b9-45a1-baa5-3f965b05b661-1-1.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"How to Get Rid of Grubs in Your Lawn | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Learn about natural living organisms that kill grubs, DIY solutions, and conventional chemicals that get rid of grubs from your lawn."}}},{"node":{"id":"90d1e743-1f33-5119-8043-e3d4eeb03789","slug":"50-best-gardening-blogs","path":"/blog/home-and-garden/50-best-gardening-blogs/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"Carmen Dexter is a freelance journalist and teacher who enjoys growing her own organic food and recycling as much as possible.","name":"Carmen Dexter","id":"f23ec685-a615-5004-a3fd-c0bfe6b2c9ec","path":"/author/carmen-dexter/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/e37085a8a22d319f3383613d59d54c5f?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"c16818a6-3923-5fc7-a49b-191ac48bf4d2","name":"Blog","count":81,"path":"/category/blog/"},{"id":"dc5a6fd2-e7cc-55b0-9210-0271a38e33b8","name":"Garden Decor","count":4,"path":"/category/garden-decor/"},{"id":"52e12a37-ef3f-522d-9050-b4638c87aa4e","name":"Garden Design","count":10,"path":"/category/garden-design/"},{"id":"30471fa8-4345-5ffd-ba99-adeaf54ad75b","name":"Garden Dispatch","count":2,"path":"/category/garden-dispatch/"},{"id":"d4fa4848-36b3-57c3-925d-ae36e49e878f","name":"Garden Landscape","count":8,"path":"/category/garden-landscape/"},{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"cfca3a30-772e-535e-90a9-3056dfc1de8c","name":"Home & Garden","count":15,"path":"/category/home-garden/"}],"date":"May 13th, 2020","excerpt":"It takes more than a green thumb to grow a good garden: usually a lot of blisters, calluses, and dirt under the nails. It also helps to rely on the expertise of others — as long as they really are experts. To make things easier, Wikilawn has plucked the best gardening blogs for you. Our […]
\n","content":"\nIt takes more than a green thumb to grow a good garden: usually a lot of blisters, calluses, and dirt under the nails. It also helps to rely on the expertise of others — as long as they really are experts.
\n\n\n\nTo make things easier, Wikilawn has plucked the best gardening blogs for you. Our judges scanned thousands of blogs, looking for innovative ideas, eco-friendly advice, and the quality of writing. To win the Wiki-Wonder Award, the blog also had to have a presence on social media.
\n\n\n\n![\"Wiki](\"https://wp.wikilawn.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/2020-05-11.png\")
Here are the 50 top gardening blogs worthy of the Wiki-Wonder Award:
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Heather Rhoades, Staff
\n\n\n![\"Gardening](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/7b06kCuEJAJosJmvL1PQDGkHSJCZHFIo5oQHyPPoCEC5OJx2ZXsF-REnyTSSuhITZIi6_92fzadDkBwrpl7j31SyfxOTdxdTkeywJJPgU-zlcH0xr99FEQ7iNy4rnr-4Nt8bH4o2\")
Gardening Know How started small after gardener Heather Rhoades had trouble finding user-friendly gardener websites and decided to focus on non-technical information that anyone could use. She wants folks to feel comfortable asking for gardening advice and not made to feel incompetent.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Dog-Friendly Vegetables: 7 Garden Veggies to Grow for Dogs
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Amy Andrychowicz
\n\n\n![\"Amy](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/gxXjy9Gf2nVIgdKD09lSQ7FPyza85dy3FGBJ3jQRyZErRUjaYS1IF_2kuINRibJOuJL-A_53a8Ny4QeMov0wUMUWQz4u6ZYSrTpZmCJygGcARNNBLhSagLDloc4lAWaX-GQgIfEa\")
Amy Andrychowicz aims her blog at new gardeners, but Get Busy Gardening also has information for those with an experienced green thumb. Amy’s been gardening most of her life and has grown everything from trees and shrubs to flowers and fruit. If you want to get your hands in the dirt but don’t know where to start, Get Busy Gardening is for you.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Tips for Creating a Bee-Friendly Garden
\n\n\n\nFounders: Susan Harris, Elizabeth Licata, Michele Owens, Amy Stewart
\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/0SQgYqlhLGTuK6GXg4TJmU-1D3gj07qot4xqY0H0iVLc4b0_bY692fBvtR7AdgJvMaDEV1fUMuPqj7TatQLGtavhXNRkkHEwRMIydXGgAyVhN2-J2RxRRLj6J6oSIjrKkKJqeb3_\")
Garden Rant isn’t your average, everyday gardening blog. Its writers take the word “rant” seriously! You’re not likely to find how-to’s on this site; instead, they may take a side on a gardening issue and rant or rave about it, usually with humor. Amusing conversations about gardening is what Garden Rant is all about.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: A Very Rocky Obsession
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Gary Antosh
\n\n\n![\"Plant](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/XNySyIWvD1je_a-7wmxIOmt73ra_1qKkST6oTvUdzi-urotVMbsfJfYPFNbwoIx9r7rXLphFXQmoBoX55ANczXZkD-FwDdO9vKmln9rHj0x3IQIvOG-Ic5GQX5p7vGDddpYKepMi\")
Gary’s blog has been online for nearly eight years, but his journey into the world of plants started 47 years ago. Growing rare plants is his specialty. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced gardener, Gary says you’ll always find something to learn and something to share on Plant Care Today.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: 8 Mistakes Tomato Growers Make That Cause Problems
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Various Garden Experts
\n\n\n![\"Urban](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/Xv0hwYDfraZtMLC-wmgv4CTEeH4yXq7dx-Xxi5aE2aY7BTiMKBR9OA_ZHLtWkmVGafoUq0KDoSJDZrzMomkyYANgMUNr8zLduS9Oi4Va_9_3aJiGhq3URbod8w24lcatcA5e2ysI\")
Interested in growing your own food? Urban Organic Gardener’s got you covered. These experts help you grow an organic, non-GMO garden year-round. UOG promises to get your hands in the soil and get you reconnecting with nature.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Gardening Projects Kids Will Love
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Margaret Roach
\n\n\n\n![\"A](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/J9u7ido4f4QaBTwOAet7HlNRJJ2jGnSOIXnf3oQNDKbZc1QO7f5qECNe5IjI99S1bsV8PH9fZZrIfIaKu76wOLaoWiFyUlwplF9_2E18F0nmOj26FUf84Qt5gBRlUS2qec3DoQ_O\")
Margaret Roach named her blog after a book she wrote early in her gardening career. She’s a retired newspaper and magazine garden editor, an organic-style gardener, and a vegetarian. According to Margaret, you should “always say no to chemicals and yes to great plants.”
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Growing Potatoes Organically: When and How to Plant, Hill and Harvest
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAuthor: Lucy M. Clark
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/dEqoN9gPvVJCqT1EsP8bXdPGdg1BSoKSfv27cf_I-IcFh6GSuajKI4ZDTnQ5s1hAT51v8bpTZDOay9pxKTdWLJjrLEe7MO4ktR_EfjT4FYXukJbQ9-qcVm7aXAo6uAX2gXHKXkt_\")
When Lucy started gardening about 14 years ago, she says she had no idea what she was doing! She spent a lot of time speaking to successful gardeners face-to-face. She hopes her blog allows you the same opportunities online. Garden Ambition is for wannabe gardeners who aren’t sure where to start.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: 8 Tips on How to Get Rid of Clover Naturally
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAuthor: Rachel
\n\n\n\n![\"Grow](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/fuP7w6hsGHxJmTNFXE9KRLH7MkywUd6rwDKAQFWJq_W8ZIWMIj28pXqn8NOJ97jumfd3D0iiD1XaP06_DmnNJ_V8cJN3M5pPmzGnr0iI3sOtcEKvHl5Nr8NTotPIGbNPWaPpgwVV\")
Want to make some big changes in your life but not sure where to start? Rachel, creator of Grow a Good Life, says get back to basics: Grow organic food, preserve the harvest, and make delicious meals from fresh ingredients. Learn how to use a mix of sustainable gardening methods, end your reliance on grocery store produce and preserve what your grow, so you can eat it year-round.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Benefits of Crop Rotation for Your Vegetable Garden
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nAuthor: Various Writers
\n\n\n\n![\"Espoma](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/nQ1kWKz1kdaAixmA8zCyxtBgUHLyChZFIHg58mIonglp3PiPh8x0HnEeEcxauo8N_l0m1s53H7rQtWEanJ-W_zX45SWbxgHiUOxeCL9yBOagvcpJDb5ZAFVrcpY627CiUQTKh1UG\")
The family-run Espoma Company’s been around for nearly 100 years and is the leading provider of organic fertilizers for the lawn and garden industry. The Espoma blog hasn’t been around nearly as long, but it’s quite popular, with more than a quarter-million followers on Facebook. You’ll find tips and information on flowers, plants, and mulching.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Gothic Gardening — The Darkest Plants
\n\n\n\nVarious Authors
\n\n\n\n![\"Gothic](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/1zwxnQQS97E7KuM8z3FTR2cxwdmu4uRjDnrBAcSSdVHbk-ubR_Pi0doH-xMF8CCTopTMKS1EkzDSUxGwBJ_Paot6Nynvs0ni6HrEoO9f3BcriwFzUB57azcR9ek-R5JNtaOmlQeU\")
Writers and photographers for Gardener’s Path come from across the globe, bringing advice, troubleshooting tips, and in-depth reviews to its readers. You’ll find posts on a variety of plants, from annuals to edibles to ornamental. Gardener’s Path hopes to help you take your gardening skills to the next level.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: How to Grow and Care for Olive Trees
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Kevin Espiritu
\n\n\n\n![\"Epic](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/3-aSrVXRMGZlftqAAT_JNXWHYFem8WwGfoklP2-5bSKFesBE11aYVqFveaDuqdKtvq8qnfAGBqLGMtRT-AuP_QXbnHPk2dNMBxMyh0LZkvc7GBsSvujPm6P-et4NQStFKfpCNOZF\")
Kevin Espiritu gets straight to the point when it comes to the goal of Epic Gardening. He wants to help 10 million people around the world learn how to grow plants. His blog blends science and nature to bring you the best information on growing your own food, preventing garden pests and diseases, and creative gardening techniques like hydroponics!
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Regrown Green Onions and Sprouted Onions
\n\n\n\nAuthor: David The Good
\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/sjcWD4el9LFWKI5cBgXcNKTjDB0dzKQOronQuPElbwjBs4vt9CGkDbNYmACgnYGayssz1rOY273H5z7Ks5_h6mN4QmF8PLSaDCN9SK0ZsoowaqJaR2f7nx6_QmpH1KbB0nmCPstM\")
With more than 30 years of gardening experience, David The Good is about growing the most food with the least amount of work. He started his site eight years ago in Florida and has since gone international. The Survival Gardener focuses on old fashioned farming, natural ecosystems, and “lots” of experimentation.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Watermelons Growing in Sand
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Todd Heft
\n\n\n\n![\"Big](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-RwJ5TV3BgA-4XIXScG-9jfslcVFWGtQ84-dTFzZ9fsu12uS8XqwtAmCvUxQ_odGrOWLxLl4ptSPeJOGhdIEdDLiQy7AfdkH3klSsCDibAhzYN_r4s2BkZ2poFeQ69d69TRbe6Sq\")
Flower gardens, vegetable gardens, lawns; you can find advice and information about all of them at Big Blog of Gardening. Founded 11 years ago by Todd Heft, the site centers around organic/sustainable gardening. Or, as Todd calls it, gardening and landscaping.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: A Short History of the American Lawn
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Stephanie
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/IDYe1TCroe4rNFFXsIh5Jn2tv5lg_Ifw3AIpEZDEtn6OUZAPallxyDDyHZwxrqghNBQWqh4nssMG84T_NNloCPEdG4fpRln6bFJbPBWTpIl2PYv2UXS554saHwH2Yn_P0VtluZV-\")
After illness kept her in bed for a year-and-a-half, Stephanie discovered gardening as a way to restore both her physical and mental health. Soon she was growing flowers and, after that, vegetables for food. She uses her blog to connect with others who spend time in the garden to heal.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: How to Start a Garden From Scratch Without Breaking the Bank
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Erin
\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/jo6M0-qNkGh7trg0mEPw_6r3TyCqoE28jJKmrQNssWfnoEeH3sQOgwg1_k3Pe8uNXmI5sZJmxJqNF3bFmnZZSxujVnxKxc5NeIRhWuzFdMEtSB8npPfLqMAvuh6yPio8c3N30Dki\")
Erin started gardening when she was a toddler, at least according to family photos. Fast-forward to adulthood, where she filled an apartment patio with so many plants, no one could see or walk through it. That led to her buying a house with enough room for three gardens. The Impatient Gardener leads you through real-life gardening; the good, the bad, and the funny!
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Compost 101 (Just Do It)
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Christy Wilhelmi
\n\n\n\n![\"'Gardenerd'](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/jgiTChaJlOX15OBAHJnAKlcSp2eWDqEPLWJDkYwlJv3f2Ws_gHg_3CS6foQlK1ghk-kjoswLxeBBetAZO7UwVN7pI3b67yf0on5RcAkXopnCoCLGzLcoJn4NIJJTvAkYAwHgTBLJ\")
Are you obsessed with gardening? Christy Wilhelmi wants you to visit her blog. Gardenerd offers up organic gardening advice such as how to turn land into a productive vegetable garden. Christy is convinced gardening combines physical activity and healthy food choices to provide “a grounding spiritual and creative outlet.”
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Recipe: Intro to Aquafaba
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Kathy Purdy
\n\n\n\n![\"Cold](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LwstR5tLZR-M7bQjSfueVp98CQBoCbS6Qqe9MXP02e4HEfKU2g7FpHbNLPzF1TWM53Rrgfd8upohqoWxxriTgUh16kLw-7YIBqkGhEQjYd3akSLMwDn8a6QIhyjinoJFHixoDdvm\")
Living in a cold climate may not seem to lend itself to gardening. The trick, says Kathy Purdy, is to choose plants suited to the temperatures and the soil. Cold Climate Gardening is your site to find information on plants that survive the cold, particularly in upstate New York, where she’s gardened for more than 25 years. You’ll also learn how to grow climate-friendly vegetables, garden design, and hardscaping.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Worried for Your Plants With This Weather?
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Various Authors
\n\n\n\n![\"Park](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/mHqsPwxdau2WQUWdBieMqgw8PZcOqwwIASLqmjntzsj20q_bOtpmCdXtO3Gdl8ec8cLBFb6eFxUMOIQUaOJvNLIzN7-wmNaxUPgb8bcOkmD5VW_sEjQiKSkeAIkpJ_69hXtw5Dbt\")
The blog is an offshoot of the Park Seed Company, which dates back to 1868. There have been a lot of advances in gardening since then and the blog reflects that. You’ll find posts on vegetables, herbs, flowers, germinating seeds, and tips on protecting your garden from predators. Park Seed is one of American’s oldest mail-order seed and plant companies and you’ll find info on pretty much all things gardening on their blog.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Rascally Rabbits: How to Stop Rabbits From Eating Plants
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Steve Albert
\n\n\n\n![\"Harvest](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/pcK8a38Eyckc8swCl7F6Eai1A53MTcj9CITn8ybLHbbZfAGMLYKT8zJnnpUcUPU9gbrHA8qi7HnTeGXyB_nkjz4rb5slo7mX-bHeFONxsiAaZrJWHiCJD7dw5IdFVlI1xqc7CHyP\")
Steve writes his blog from his utility room with the door to the kitchen on one side and the door to the garden on the other. Appropriate, as he cooks and eats what he grows (and gives plenty away, too). Harvest to Table is for gardeners of all levels. The goal is to find easy solutions to common garden problems.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Companion Planting in the Vegetable Garden
\n\n\n\nVarious Authors
\n\n\n\n![\"Seed](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/mL5mz25ByVjTiawr2LE-wt4W1OjQOuyr9ErkN0oISRtAVNsFiM2YKlP1DC3c4n1l2ioNo61p7ZrDpEtJTwGcIR1WwWVlMClk1pK_asChfUEHdhzwdiiWATZ7PeevZDqZonFANUMx\")
This site originally focused on helping home gardeners. Today, it centers around supporting and helping finance public garden projects such as school, community, and homeless shelter gardens. Look for pieces on the value of home gardens, some how-tos on planting, and documentation of the projects Seed Money has worked on.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Roosevelt High School Urban Farm, Three Sisters Culinary Garden
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Gayla Trail
\n\n\n\n![\"You](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/wwMq5AbTldIVT_EDfrDvLr6z7XDfTc5x56XA-wmVCNgWE2q2QZ1Jh0Sfk7-DYCE-x96c4UdBnnMXXXFGO4GKAGU1zbrpmnBhLydoNjaR_i93Rm4d0YScagixLhVzKftMahcO4mmd\")
It’s been 20 years since Gayla launched her blog. It has grown into a site that seeks to change our relationship to plants. You Grow Girl takes a laid-back approach to organic gardening, looking at affordability, environmentalism and style. Gayla says her blog is for everyone from gardeners to cooks, to creators, to the just plain curious.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: The First Leafy Greens Harvest Of The Season
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Linda Ly
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wgn8RociLOayNAdJte6UubQUjVvvILupzqIQxm_k6Fxh0N-LBmgod0eF-MbLVXi1WbMPwp3Tu1y4eEyBXewGKcJnd-k1uJpK9fPiCdGeDjSo_H-CtBX5KPxZixUxHq8MhR5qQNQT\")
Linda Ly started her site as a personal blog but it’s now one of the leading resources on gardening. The focal points of Garden Betty are modern homesteading, farm-to-table cooking, and outdoor adventuring. Linda is also the author of the “No-Waste Vegetable Cookbook,” finding ways to use up all the veggies we grow or buy.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Defending the Dandelion: It’s Not Just Another Weed
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Helen Yoest
\n\n\n\n![\"Bee](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/0LtPSUFdDw4sI9nP-rN-0sGIX0jTwkJy0Pm87UI45sraOv9Ivx16eLNmK275N0i-VuV0KARC8uz7CREuRncRzoK3LI3mtbs-BNn0z1nRjwSbF6s97f3jghS9V_FTgIn6ZxgJfME0\")
Helen Yoest wants to better the world, one garden at a time, by giving wildlife what it needs to survive. Bee Better Naturally teaches you how to select the best plants to sustain our birds, bees, and butterflies over their lifecycle. Linda emphasizes being pesticide-free, even from organic pesticides. You’ll learn to accept that there will be damage done to plants that host insects, and that’s OK.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: XX Days Lockdown During 2020 Pandemic: The Garden Never Looked Better!
\n\n\n\nVarious Authors
\n\n\n\n![\"Morning](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/rhwfNl8SFX0KXLjmCsAyHQeWGgceaTRJ5C_JtAMrNGdd5hDVKwZesqLwaCP9jEXzrpniLeLjwz9IxevHT_dCH0l_sC-DIWAwLSMTqDr1MA3OyKZ183RudVMi4toB5yXDgQWT-x56\")
Created with the premise that it’s hard to find gardening guides you can trust, Morning Chores aims to bring you information and stories that help you grow a thriving garden, learn new skills, and save money. The writing team is scattered across the U.S. and around the world. The one thing they all have in common? Each one has experience in gardening, so they know their plants.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: 15 Easy Ingredient Substitutions if You Can’t Get to the Store
\n\n\n\nVarious Authors
\n\n\n\n![\"Garden](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/LaZrmDDpotUTWFd7cL-pGa40MPL0Jw4Z2bwiQxlhu6DJx6Y5iOWcwlaeqYU5lGE-DZ-ZJJlCMiQyYUeqrbMr_Bwndia4ZzqBKrMBKlxlRvCk-dk-J9DB8wTUsN8DTdDZ8zxUFJ7B\")
This contemporary look at natural living with posts on herbal healing, seasonal foods, and the stories plants can tell. You’ll find categories such as “Nourish,” “Heal,” “Change,” and “Inspire.” With a presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram and hundreds of thousands of followers, Garden Collage uses influencers to bring their stories to social media.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: 5 Classic Fairytale Love Stories About Plants
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Pam Penick
\n\n\n\n![\"Digging\"](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/qEYg9qxfGJ9PlhKziCufOyd9zc2Sl97wx8EHzG2TO4teVsxgVtqvgVPExtNFUED5XiZdk4oI6yGSgu99j9fvQlSbcIHGaOB1umV7YQoi39_CLiyfdJXK1gswiBNwpCU4L9bS60XH\")
Pam Penick is a Texan with a penchant for getting dirt under her nails. Digging is for folks who want to feel connected to nature, through real-life plant info, garden design, and virtual garden tours. Like Pam says, it’s for “dirt-under-the-nails types and armchair gardeners alike.”
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Grapey Gorgeous Texas Mountain Laurel
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Fran Sorin
\n\n\n\n![\"Gardening](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/SgZRF9ZYeP8-m0ApjlVnRXC5pWlkMYWnJASbmr1bnJU-E-jbweJB3eKA1J3P3-JQhhwsp5Rr1UFqd2IPJiUdzaI6atEEHWlBeyWB1Mn0ox7LeC0jIDbhcxjQl2RYwjr1qLQoijvM\")
Fran Sorin started her blog back in 2007, with an emphasis on how to create bold, organic, low maintenance and drought-resistant gardens. These days, you’ll still find those types of posts, along with more. Want to know how to effectively use color in your garden? Gardening Gone Wild’s got you covered. How about amazing photos of unique plants and flowers? Covered. You’ll also learn why gardening’s good for your health.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Can Landscaping Protect a Home From Fire?
\n\n\n\nVarious Authors
\n\n\n\n![\"Mother](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/72SJ1aXi6J6Bsom6EEdNV2mJDjupct9zoYNEk1slOC3_WxBK7hoyLkKgwTc1n5X9ZZXxM49waxcRlNVKjHGnRP2yHIDrxIm7ap4FOBSe_qhgptaSS3UAJ_mQqpYpBzShLzuBQ-hB\")
Living green is what it’s all about at Mother Earth News. It’s the longest-running sustainable-lifestyle magazine, and the advice on the pages carries over to the online posts. Organic foods, country living, green transportation, and natural health are some of the topics you’ll find. And if you’re wondering what to do with the veggies you just picked, Mother Earth News has recipes, as well.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Home Canning Guide: Learn How to Can Your Own Food
\n\n\n\nVarious Authors
\n\n\n\n![\"Urban](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/1YdhRfn3JZfb1ENkT_U1y5dygdYsRKWi1xFfFN4ljjRV0jUsMLbP0lrds5HzUJ_lN_QnYzv5EXeVGeFoqJ_ahVF7TF5a1RVuGVLeZRG1cvCgNKy1neOXGe7gXOM7d9cI1uSO_247\")
City living doesn’t mean you can’t have a garden. Urban Gardeners Republic’s mission is to create 1000 gardens in 100 cities around the world over the next five years. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, this blog aims to encourage you to grow your own food, teach your kids how to garden, and build a green space at home.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Indoor Garden Tips and Ideas For All Gardeners
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Jan Johnsen
\n\n\n\n![\"Serenity](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/iDOudVnzwQg8Tkbb8Z1oszcAX5ihoNwhVvQQg8mA4DBHf8kRRMss9V2cGBsku4E1hrERwZNFgYYCtyDuRuwm6Frn7VOcKEQp8rAkUBfm1L0gU_5PFdmIGMw8TfcHiNZCQ8DnES_A\")
Going green is what it’s all about for Jan, who designs landscapes and pools and writes books, including “Heaven Is a Garden – Designing Serene Outdoor Spaces for Inspiration and Reflection.” Serenity In The Garden aims to show you how to use a garden to enhance your wellbeing.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Milk Carton Gardens
\n\n\n\nAuthors: Jessica Walliser, Niki Jabbour, Tara Nolan
\n\n\n\n![\"Savvy](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/cRgPvzckrdTayxUnETWe5BJEvAzPvv4H2isFq1C5mp6b4WhMb9zHxA6Gx_fUL3UawdXsq40OjQlVg9uE-CL4h6P_TH7mxvtt1WDtj9dh4oSi0hsCCb6kWm8h80GMcALh0xLNbJP7\")
Three voices of gardening expertise make up Savvy Gardening. Jessica, Niki and Tara want you to get out in your garden and experiment. The blog offers information on food, interactions between insects and plants, and ways to reconnect with nature.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Landscape Borders: Eye-Catching Edging Ideas
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Kathy Jantz
\n\n\n\n![\"Washington](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-roubdCJ8Dh9oQzQF_OEdYK0gcgQYsuRX1eVXixOwHG7B2lm3ksQk0UmH_AZnCLs95NRXITB4cAuVJ1UrGu0YEfFx0K6Ra0BK8VXYgH6BE1pwymv9wPZvo6J22pWEJ0On-2IwGLy\")
Kathy is determined to leave a very small environmental footprint behind and is committed to doing all she can to protect the planet. At Washington Gardener, they source 100% wind power and use vegetable-based inks and recycled paper for printing. In this blog, look for tips on building a garden, safety, and transitioning the kitchen garden from spring into early summer.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Plant Profile: Carex
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Isis Loran
\n\n\n\n![\"Family](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/Y2og6TXrWkJuE31xPeHQkf50s0MJkIUxXzvoXY6_oHRzVmRI0wkbcxXwqSGITLzQGow9PwvK80k51ToxM1tncyhJMWxOl9x4Oi0euVhpUJH4-m_YjzBNfvDd6OR-FZops6pMy4zW\")
When you grow your own food, you can control what you put into your body, whether it’s tea, herbs, wild foraged food, or fruits and vegetables. Isis loves growing heirlooms and experimenting with plants. Family Food Garden covers garden planning, homesteading and permaculture, such as growing a pollinator garden.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: How to Keep Your Greenhouse Cool in the Summer
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Jeanne Grunert
\n\n\n\n![\"Home](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/7lxZO7nsKlhibmJSY16WRa2dqHSUFwP6vIeYbxbza_zQVnmiBPOzTkgjHsXvLkAUIVQ1ihNdL-oZPrwne2kvYf1eSmOcgwo-UQKm1q6iML7nEkBHl8we82KraMoe_98PcHcLUFfk\")
On her voyage from a city slicker to farm girl, Jeanne moved from New York City to Farmersville, Va. Regardless of where she was living, plants and gardening were her thing. Home Garden Joy shares posts on how to grow vegetables, fruits, and herbs plus some surprising info like how to make a bee water station with things you find at the dollar store.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Asian Murder Hornets: What Gardeners Need to Know
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Melissa Caughey
![\"Tilly's](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/3QBjGjCCvwKxsTNKIobyMk4a3KiEQjX7Ep8PLmKucaCadV3BX--2gmA6gRkxwvuObZ8YtApmTkOHJhTHWW8UcZtguH68EBHf4J8xxv6OGZq4R8rmVlEHnPA9IWBYNeWjFXHsnB-U\")
The first thing you notice about Tilly’s Nest is chickens. Lots of chickens. A second to the fowl is gardening. Melissa lives by the New England seaside and keeps you updated on chickens, gardening, bees, art, and food.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Spring Awakenings: Delights of the Season
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Marianne Willburn
\n\n\n\n![\"Small](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/71JejNFhVzmdKqSpv3218elWFjVAcz_I4a05i81wrRVlu7y5EuERscFU9bovKJx3xwrBjgLZKlHcElAG6rIN-m7g-wYn08rvYeuHl4w04bk30jPxO-tiytVoVVg1YQ01-OjW0CIF\")
Growing plants reminds Marianne how fulfilling it is to work with your hands. These days of digital living find some gardeners glued to Pinterest and other sites, collecting information but forgetting to do anything with it. Small Town Gardener helps you reconnect with the actual garden, whether it’s on your balcony, in your backyard, or on ten acres in your field.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Vegetable Gardening on a Smaller Scale
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Dee Nash
\n\n\n\n![\"Red](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/H34Ltk9U2G5UJ-ffRQOKNXYzNWEOnjb3--5ybs0eEpnezw2x8h1gp4rOk7flih1NjiWrnEIfM_h66vkUTLMZm52LBx4WyzYEezM62Fz5dBgyKsC_21SPs_fyElRb4VvWY8HsWzC0\")
Dee once grew 90 rose bushes and more than 200 daylilies. You might say she’s garden-obsessed. Oklahoma born and raised, she loves getting her hands in the red dirt. Her blog offers tips on how to grow your own transplants from seed, when to buy bulbs for spring flowers, and the basics of container gardening.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Heart-Shaped Plants
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Anna Hackman
\n\n\n\n![\"Green](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/ORWxmwN3NWaxsVcCgYLXDIidwS0bfl2lzqybJ5kqtXmdwAAh7cWQLPLIMoE_pTIUFOCwHDcKLvmSpO6IBTEuk9iZX_B6OIOrWW5qwqmS_Xm56D5Ly3EJ2kPmPKXc1gS23wthHcNY\")
Green Talk began as a blog about green building, as Anna had just finished building an eco-friendly house. It’s evolved into a site about gardening, herbs, and food preservation, with some green living still sprinkled in. Anna promotes health, hope, and happiness, which she says you can achieve by growing and preserving your own food.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: How to Successfully Grow Indoor Seedlings Using the Right Light
\n\n\n\nAuthors: Chantal Aida Gordon, Ryan Benoit
\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/_5ekLkx2ab5SD9wfVqNRSLm-81FhpWfPcObZvj64EthlW3tcJqrZYvcnnC9e_7zF5BTfvXIW9Y8v564UQ125Yr_we_zhuMW8uRpdWIfiCOnit2U3RzBP7wDnT0U5CjbpjrZj5rqQ\")
Chantal and Ryan created their blog seven years ago as newbies to gardening. As they experimented with plants and interviewed the experts, they shared everything they learned with their readers. Now, accomplished gardeners, they bring to The Horticult a guide to enjoying a plant-infused lifestyle, including how to serve up herb-garnished cocktails.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Show Thyme: How to Build an Outdoor Theater in Your Garden
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Carol Michel
\n\n\n\n![\"May](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/HtdGPwH6rboWOIrAnOHk5-kMiQTlEBRN_G0WVLc_mFvl0s-NgEsoueOcQ0tYGGDlmfPs6yWLNz3qj_AEMRMohPg93y_wwV-bNAWJFUKyWfS7yGYGtgqBgA6KYTVX0KO9m5JqKMpL\")
Carol calls herself an eccentric gardening geek. This Indiana gardener writes about how to select and use the right tools, gardening clubs you may want to join and, of course, house plants, outdoor plants, and colorful blossoms. May Dreams Gardens also encourages you to keep a garden diary. Who knows? Maybe you’ll start your own garden blog.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: The Garden Fairies May Need to Defend Themselves
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Eva
\n\n\n\n![\"My](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/izvZvsAW5ZIggPNfRfAXlNzFF_-E7Ib0veYr75OfP_44-Zukm0qzelZ3k4ZFCSTYbipr-z8RxJu1u4CK7SaoVgRwcWjtsuKOgHAvQZOdjfZyrd3WkKJiarZcleNiVPC5mTUxRhoN\")
My Desired Home describes itself as the place to go when home deco and DIY need inspiration, but the blog also focuses on gardening. Want to know the secret to growing tasty tomatoes in pots? Learn why bamboo is the new trend for your garden. Or read about DIY ideas to transform a tree trunk into a beautiful garden decoration.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Dipladenia, the Amazing Brazilian Jasmine in Your Pot and Garden
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Jessica Lane
\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/3PyptlLBYdTWVbuIL0sQYlDXyWgoDSIfpTDoYktHTuzfLMYmWlPAZ_KWfhLGIpCb4CISwCq2KQOWb928hYODCKDwqNGYaCKE_5yz24QxISpxKiACwwsuWB4wpCGM99q0FwU6VYE5\")
Jessica lives a nearly self-sufficient life with her three kids in Maine. She grows as much food as she can and what she can’t grow, she barters for. The 104 Homestead follows her journey into homesteading. If you want to be more self-sufficient but don’t know where to start, you’ll find the answers on this blog.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: There’s No Reason Not to Grow Your Own Food
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Jenny
\n\n\n\n![\"Bees](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/i7pELAdyVkTwDzgnEMXvz9XIOEVHWAZxc_tpPj6RM2NL9mbJ14h77aW5NAycFa3yGbLRFCJHwacr6B3TdLmLIR1mCChkZfTAqQ6euuA_dzGdim8-VOVEIhnpLRyoJq-NSUgAFgrE\")
A certified master gardener, Jenny wants to tell you all she can about outdoor living. Whether it’s landscaping, planting trees, or flowers, Bees and Roses has what you need to be successful in the garden. Jenny’s posts include advice on creating permaculture designs for your backyard and tips for growing tomatoes upside down. That’s right. Upside down!
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Victory Gardens: a Blast From the Past
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Jono Stevens
\n\n\n\n![\"Real](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/LfSInuEAxob-dUj2oH-fCpXQzWFK71OthYXJW2IkCoVCLzC0znpKOBo4hzBJvTWOhcPEF4iqMDLhy9YKppqLedqF7H8dnVWyeSrSq_-UdsP7rH_FaOlCXPpH00RF3SV0yNulBa_r\")
Thirteen years ago, Jono took up gardening with his mom. He says a steady stream of tasty fruits and veggies have made their way to his kitchen ever since. You’ll find advice for beginning gardeners and tips for buying cheap seeds. Jono hopes his blog captures the joy of growing your own food and living within the seasons.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: 6 Tips for Composting Down Your Spent Crops
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Shawna Coronado
\n\n\n\n![\"Shawna](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/8uTZUK5M5Wx8a9F4k8-nF5DHUlKBIgMEdBkxOW1Josr5E58tU1WyZqZlnGAItNEFj2I5tikhmCi9I0-8nMWrS1hUuViUDXnZnZIBASm-J1mXNK4-5acVSMpmsPcdRV1C5ZIlhLA_\")
When Shawna was diagnosed with a debilitating disease, she set out to find ways to decrease the pain. Focusing on growing organic produce and plants for food, while also sharing anti-inflammatory recipes, Shawna has a “make a difference” passion, zeroing in on wellness.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Purple Basil Is a Great Ornamental Edible
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Kate
\n\n\n\n![\"High](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/zh9QZTBjxQVjs-y9fQlPvIcXFzKPekUDHAzS7Rxx1wlEmGnj6XqZpHRFN347Q7kX73SN-s7G1cOCRC3FdNacshfvNLmwpn2dmc2T14bmYdiziDoEpy11vz3XeIUdKDHqDBWJlBxX\")
Kate gardens in a high-plain desert at an elevation of 7,000 feet. Sound challenging? It is. This Utah blogger is a certified master gardener who plants native flowers to adapt to the dry, harsh conditions. High Altitude Gardening offers advice on which seeds to buy and which vegetables to plant.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: The Divine Inspiration of … Onions?
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Kathy
\n\n\n\n![\"Skippy's](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/wuw6jUzkv0WCYxMXMzW6Yj5VdRddFA_fgfNxZ3H7xlxB8J9IpPK696cPq4bA0I0atSzFW5bwSnPSgB9BknWUEFFX7XxoyXrKk9Bc0kNeRaomNDNEZkd73oWIeO7rsu5yvs36qHHB\")
Kathy is a biochemist who gardens as a hobby. The blog is named after Skippy, her first dog who followed her through the garden. Though Skippy is no longer here, his memory lives on through the blog. Kathy shares advice from expert gardeners, including gardening projects you can do in your kitchen and templates for garden plans.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Growing Sprouts and Microgreens
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Robin Plaskoff Horton
\n\n\n\n![\"Urban](\"https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/LCtPsh06n9u638ddxmBxHJ3swQYu6NgsT8lYlLBvjEijXcf3ulshPDsG1C9R4npM4WVSawfbl2oBFXOkpmLwkBLD_-G_sfL-vrLT6ygegn3VwsTLBPXbktbhOK0luv1roirakUdC\")
Urban Gardens starts at the beginning, from planting and cultivating to harvesting. The blog combines urban style, design, sustainable living, and travel. Robin grew up in several countries and uses her experience on her blog, scouting the world for food and design trends.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Horticulture Therapy Cultivates Healing and Hope for Seniors
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Michelle
\n\n\n\n![\"Veg](\"https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/ZnCnOGVWTmpffLBoYB427OJ7KaCcK6ktwgkK656ZPEqxFs_eVgBugWBNtyompLAyYqffnTLQ4W7o-OeBbwV_ejHiq_w2mhAmu_U-GQgI48yvhs0WIQvqKJqiuYC0UFO0UISD3KHD\")
Michelle doesn’t claim to be an expert gardener but she hopes you’ll find useful information in Veg Plotting. She writes about discovering things about gardening, cooking what you grow, and spotting spring flowers. The gardening bug didn’t really bite her until she was an adult, but she’s making up for lost time.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: It Started With a Lemon
\n\n\n\nAuthor: Lee Miller
\n\n\n\n![\"Landscape](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/RgA6MJ4vnacjGsa0mpHWfs6ky3sksbFQtzdO0ux0JVu-pKA6DhXTteiQgKz5p91SvzuHenx_efXbUbrmC1ArjEHUD4CBDIdUI8I6r_a5GA5jApjhzt38tKGU67maDibhdyjm9nO3\")
ee says she’s had a shovel in her hand since age 5. She’s a lifetime gardener, book author and now a landscape designer. Lee stays current with horticulture practices and shares what she learns on her blog. You’ll also find gorgeous pictures of flowers and plants on her page.
\n\n\n\nFavorite Post 2020: Garden Bloggers Bloom Day & Foliage Follow
\n","title":"50 Best Gardening Blogs of 2020","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.5515151515151515,"src":"/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/1789c/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.jpg","srcSet":"/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/107df/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.jpg 320w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/293e9/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.jpg 500w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/f2cbb/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.jpg 800w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/1789c/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.jpg 960w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/a2a79/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/1dd6e/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/67b76/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.webp 320w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/8df11/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.webp 500w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/98a65/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.webp 800w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/1dd6e/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.webp 960w,\n/static/6bdcfb08eef3cd45b3286f91a10e07c1/7aa54/gardener-planting-flower-plant-man-tree-1586951-pxhere.com_.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"50 Best Gardening Blogs of 2020 | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}},{"node":{"id":"3d7c66c6-7f93-5c24-9a14-70ebfef9e2c1","slug":"diagnosing-treating-dogs-grass-allergies","path":"/lawn-care/diagnosing-treating-dogs-grass-allergies/","status":"publish","template":"","format":"standard","author":{"description":"","name":"Vivienne Rañola","id":"7e748cb1-86ec-5afc-8d05-06e942e50c7e","path":"/author/vivienne-christine-ranola/","avatar_urls":{"wordpress_96":"https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/87b107c04d816821656cfe91b5698bfa?s=96&d=mm&r=g"}},"categories":[{"id":"a4b803e1-5b3a-516a-b5b4-c5b50b2ae834","name":"Home & Garden","count":19,"path":"/category/blog/home-and-garden/"},{"id":"205f24d4-c1e5-5728-bb28-8ba70eecbc7a","name":"Lawn Care","count":432,"path":"/category/lawn-care/"}],"date":"October 9th, 2019","excerpt":"If you have ever watched your dog excessively sneeze, scratch, and lick its paws, you’ve wondered what’s going on. You may find the two of you have something in common. As you blow your runny nose and rub your watery eyes, cursing the outdoors, your four-legged buddy may be suffering right alongside you. Dogs can […]
\n","content":"\nIf you have ever watched your dog excessively sneeze, scratch, and lick its paws, you’ve wondered what’s going on. You may find the two of you have something in common.
\n\n\n\nAs you blow your runny nose and rub your watery eyes, cursing the outdoors, your four-legged buddy may be suffering right alongside you. Dogs can get seasonal allergies, too.
\n\n\n\nThe culprit may be right under your dog’s paws. Grass allergies are the second-most common canine allergy (right after flea sensitivity).
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/XCXPM8-SERDg3bdXvTmKDN6GJK6NTgMpLHw0MIBdfEBm39PnQ1ueU2TjBPW4O5jB_sIbiOcRPDX6B31W-WxAAwg0AIIm_K_5pLUTlbP8l4tHycCaixiDNywa4OqjWlaDwkApw5c9\")
Dogs suffering from endless itchiness may scratch until they harm themselves. Anytime a dog with no sign of flea bites or known food allergies displays signs of excessive itching skin, dog allergies may be the culprit.
\n\n\n\nUnlike human allergy symptoms, dogs’ allergic reactions are primarily topical — on the skin. Common symptoms of grass allergies include irritated skin, either in isolated patches or spread all over a dog’s body. Watch for redness, hot spots, and bare patches from constant scratching, licking, and biting.
\n\n\n\nOne of the most challenging aspects of grass allergies in dogs is that they can show up out of the blue, even if you don’t have a yard. Some dogs are more susceptible to grass allergies than others. Bulldogs, German shepherds, Irish terriers, pugs, retrievers, and setters are all at higher risk than other breeds.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/SFeDQchITWvBSGfyKHfuJzs2B9pdxUJisbP-J5XzdBObT1B6oo6F619t9_9Ph7vpT25FFqEk5DrWQhUKWdTOkS8KnaTEdti0ivjzymhI-9K8LWio2SWl4ZLJ5DJlhTQNNPLK8DdY\")
A dog’s allergies to grass can manifest as mild allergic responses such as skin irritation to full-blown condition vets call canine atopic dermatitis (more commonly, allergic dermatitis or canine atopy). Atopy shows up in hair loss and skin infections from incessant scratching. The bottom line? When your dog’s symptoms reach this level, it’s time for a trip to the doggy dermatologist.
\n\n\n\nThere’s no need to panic about the grass you see your dog eating. Grass allergies have nothing to do with the grass underfoot, but rather the seasonal pollen released by the seedheads of unmown grass left to grow to maturity. Of course, there are other pollen-borne environmental allergies that can affect dogs. If you see the symptoms, have your dog tested.
\n\n\n\nPollen is almost invisible as it travels in the air, sometimes over great distances. This is why your dog can suffer, even if you don’t have a yard at home. Grass pollen affects dogs that inhale it into their lungs. It can also create contact allergies when it touches your dog’s skin. This is why it is important to bathe him or her often and wipe down your dog’s legs and paws each time they come in from outside.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/XXGTvKtIDgzs-Nfo3gee15Yb2WdXhTPm1OZ2mYRpjUwp_A-jk1-lH6DMif1VnE7pXMqQVZemYd1_XchAxATgxOPpI7tqKhLNksNDsobwlV8C8dI-tjXXxL8RdW3FdwM4MMFId84z\")
Visit a veterinarian if you suspect your dog suffers from a grass allergy. But be warned that getting a conclusive diagnosis of a specific allergen can be difficult. Most vets will recommend an eight- to 12-week elimination diet to rule out food allergies. By the time you’re done, the allergy season may be winding down. Allergy testing includes intradermal skin testing or blood testing. Some vets prefer to offer treatment first to see if it helps clear up the symptoms.
\n\n\n\nYou can help by paying close attention to and keeping track of your dog’s allergy symptoms. It’s important to note when the symptoms started, and when they subsided. Let your vet know if your furry family member displayed any secondary symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, or snoring.
\n\n\n\n![\"\"/](\"https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/DZW--zdGe5UJTstbCQpjaeCeM4W5ki8Hj61BekJ5wn3DKNwLaVcEeXax2PmzJiDJc-qhG0PPw7nTqXO6bloOcjjCQTvF_RL6d6wXECoYo1qRSVI9ymXopdDKq5zLgeKK4Z0N_4n_\")
Clinical treatment for a dog with grass allergies usually starts with antihistamines and large doses of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have an anti-inflammatory effect, and antihistamines ease itching. In severe cases, your vet may recommend a steroid shot, such as Apoquel. While steroids can cause side effects such as increased ear infections, Apoquel is considered safe and effective.
\n\n\n\nAccording to Dr. Nicole Eckholm, a veterinary dermatologist at Pet Emergency and Specialty Center of Marin in San Rafael, Calif., “Seasonal allergies cannot be cured, but they can be successfully managed in most cases.” She recommends allergy shots, known as immunotherapy, as the first line of defense. Up to 80% of dogs respond favorably to allergy shots.
\n\n\n\nUnlike other allergies, it’s almost impossible to avoid exposure to grass pollen. If your dog has a grass allergy, take the time to treat it and use preventive measures to limit contact. A side benefit: You’ll have a reason to enjoy rainy days. Heavy rain clears the air so your pooch and romp outside without reservation.
\n\n\n\nMain image credit: Tony Alter, CC 2.0
\n","title":"Diagnosing, Treating Grass Allergies in Dogs","featured_media":{"localFile":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"aspectRatio":1.4479638009049773,"src":"/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/1789c/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/107df/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.jpg 320w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/293e9/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.jpg 500w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/f2cbb/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.jpg 800w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/1789c/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.jpg 960w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/356ef/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.jpg 1280w","srcWebp":"/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/1dd6e/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/67b76/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.webp 320w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/8df11/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.webp 500w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/98a65/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.webp 800w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/1dd6e/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.webp 960w,\n/static/5b7bd4d7f2a06a3f887cc38a3f60ab0f/93f70/rsz_dog-grimace-tony-alter-cc20.webp 1280w","sizes":"(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px"}}}},"yoast_meta":{"yoast_wpseo_title":"Diagnosing, Treating Grass Allergies in Dogs | Wikilawn","yoast_wpseo_metadesc":""}}}],"postCity":{}}}}