Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Life

Category: Landscaping and Lawn Basics

Ask a Pro: Carson Arthur’s Outdoor Sweeps Edition Part 2

Check out Part 2 of Carson Arthur’s best outdoor maintenance tips from our recent Facebook Q&A, here on Ask a Pro!

Q. Hey Carson. I have a rooftop patio. I want to buy artificial grass. What kind/brand do you suggest? Where should I buy it? How do I maintain it?

–Lisa R.

A. The tricky part about artificial grass is how it is used afterwards. A majority of the products on the market are made from recycled materials but cannot be recycled after they become turf. Either look for a biodegradable or recyclable option, or choose an outdoor rug made of natural sisal. Maintenance is easy, wash it with a hose!

–Carson Arthur

Q. How do I create height in my gardens without pulling all my plants out? Do I start over again?

–Kristin D.

A. No way! Save the plants! Consider adding a lattice panel with a nice vine on it. It’s an easy way to create the exact height even in the middle of a bed.

–Carson Arthur

Q. I have 3 agapanthus, aka lily of the Nile. Can I take the pods after the flowers are gone, dry them out, and plant them to make new ones?

–Tisa J.

A. You definitely can… but it’s a SLOW SLOW SLOW process to get them to a stage where they will bloom.

–Carson A.

Q. I have violets growing in my grass. What’s the best product to use to kill them once and for all without killing the grass?

–Max W.

A. Patience, sadly. I know there are a lot of chemicals, but if you want to go the natural route…it’s all about ripping them out one at a time. Sounds like fun?!?

–Carson A.

Q. Is it too late to start a small garden?

–Robin C.

A. Not at all! Go for it! Try some lettuce and radishes. They grow they fastest! Also spinach, kale, even some tomatoes and peppers will work for you now!

–Carson A.

June 30, 2016
4 Tips for Creating a Luscious Lawn

You know a good lawn when you see one—the kind of luscious lawn that makes you want to roll around or have a picnic. Well, the good news is that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. With some basic lawn care and grass-growing tips, you can have the kind of lawn that people will stop to admire. Here are the only steps you’ll ever need to having the greener grass on your side.

Choosing the Right Grass

If you’ve found yourself in a situation where there’s more dirt than there is grass, you definitely need some grass-growing tips. It may surprise you that there are many different varieties of grass. Growing grass is much more complex than simply planting some seeds. Understanding how grass grows can mean the difference between having no grass or having a stunning, luscious lawn.

There are several things to consider when choosing the right grass for your property, depending on the quality of grass you desire. The best lawn care tip is to choose a grass that is best suited to your climate. Grass is categorized into cool season grass and warm season grass. In cool season grasses, you have grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass. In warm season grasses, you have grasses like Buffalograss. You should pick the right type of grass within the respective category you belong in. You can learn more about choosing the right grass here.

You also have the option of skipping over the seeds and placing sod. This can be a fast way to get beautiful results, but basic lawn care is still needed.

June 9, 2016
Landscaping Secrets From the Pros

Proper landscaping has the ability to enhance put your property in the neighborhood’s limelight. Despite what many believe, you don’t have to break the bank, have a green thumb, or even have an interest in gardening to make a big impression with your landscape. All you need is a little elbow grease and these six landscaping secrets from the pros:

1. Bring attention to points of interest with a walkway

You may have a stunning sitting area, garden, or fire pit in your yard, but if the only way to get to it is to trample on the lawn, you’re doing your layout a disservice. Deter the makeshift path of dead grass, and bring attention to all these points of interest on your property with an attractive walkway. Whether it’s made of stepping stones, crushed stone or mulch, this landscaping tip will connect the entire setup of your property fabulously, for greater appeal.

May 26, 2016
10 Tips to Improve Your Landscaping in the Spring

The curb appeal of your home is incredibly important when trying to sell. A beautiful landscape instantly welcomes potential buyers and emits a comforting appeal that people desire when looking to purchase a home. With spring finally here, you can now get to work in your yard. Here are 10 tips to create beautiful landscaping that will enhance your home’s curb appeal.

1. Understand the climate of your region and yard

Your geographic location plays a vital part in the landscaping options for your home, so choose plants accordingly. The climate of your yard is also crucial, as some plants need more sun than shade and vice versa. So monitor the areas on your property, and find the perfect location for each individual plant you choose.

April 28, 2016
Five Unexpected Garden Design Ideas

You’ve no doubt felt the urge to get your hands dirty by gardening and creating an attractive garden area for your yard. But, you don’t have to limit your design to just the fun of the mill planter box or lush green lawn. With a little work and some easy DIY projects, you can make your garden one-of-a-kind.

First Consider Your Environment

Your garden’s environment should be the starting point for your ideas. If your climate is rainy or dry, rather than a combination of the two, choose plants suited for local weather conditions. By choosing native plants, you’ll create a sustainable garden that’s even budget-friendly to boot, since you won’t be paying for increased water or energy usage. Native plants are also easier to maintain, which make them an easy choice for boosting the curb appeal of your home.

April 23, 2015